Daily Archives: May 21, 2024

After a myriad of controversial breakups, new developments point to Johnny Depps potential return to the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise.

Johnny Depps role in the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise not only solidified his status as a cinematic icon but also captivated audiences worldwide, making the character synonymous with the franchise and Captain Jack Sparrow character for decades to come.

However, since his departure from the franchise amidst a whirlwind of legal battles with ex-wife Amber Heard and public scrutiny, Depps career has taken various intriguing turns.

As rumors swirl about his potential return to the high seas and Disney contemplates the future of the Pirates series without its most famous pirate, the landscape of this beloved franchise is on the brink of transformation.

Johnny Depp, known for his iconic portrayal of Captain Jack Sparrow in the Pirates of the Caribbean series, has been on a dynamic journey since his departure from the franchise. Despite the controversy and legal battles surrounding his exit, Depp has continued to captivate audiences and make significant strides in his career.

One of Depps notable appearances was at the UK premiere of Jeanne du Barry (2023), directed by French filmmaker Mawenn. Depp stars as King Louis XV, a role that initially surprised him but ultimately showcased his versatility as an actor.

The Cannes Film Festival premiere was a reunion with director Terry Gilliam, who directed Depp in cult classics such as Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas (1998) and The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus (2009). The event was filled with playful banter and heartfelt moments, with Gilliam humorously comparing Depp to the new Jackie Chan due to his dedication to his craft.

Aside from Jeanne du Barry, Depp has also been involved in directing Modi, a film starring Al Pacino. This project highlights Depps behind-the-camera talents and his ability to collaborate with other Hollywood heavyweights. Moreover, Depp has not abandoned his musical passions; he continues to perform with his band, Hollywood Vampires, alongside Joe Perry and Alice Cooper.

Depps commitment to nurturing emerging talent was evident during his interaction with aspiring filmmakers from the Ghetto Film School in London. This engagement underscored his enduring influence and willingness to support the next generation of storytellers.

The possibility of Johnny Depp returning to the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise has been a topic of fervent speculation among fans and media alike. Despite Depps statement during his 2022 defamation trial against ex-wife Amber Heard that he wouldnt return to Disney for $300 million, recent developments suggest a potential change in his stance.

During the premiere of Jeanne du Barry, Depp expressed a nuanced openness to future collaborations, including a return to the beloved franchise, if the right project comes along. This sentiment was echoed by a source close to Depp, who indicated that he would consider rejoining Disney if presented with an appealing script and role.

A new report from The Express detailed a look from Johnny Depp that sparked all kinds of speculation from fans.

Now, with production still yet to get underway on Pirates 6, Johnny has coincidentally made an appearance at Pinewood, where parts of the fourth outing were filmed, carrying a pirate book, the report shared.

Though Depp showed up at a former place where a significant portion of the franchise was filmed with a pirate bag, this does not mean that he is returning to the franchise, at least not right now.

The last official statement we heard from Disney came from Producer Jerry Bruckheimer, who confirmed that Disney is moving forward with a reboot of the Pirates of the Caribbean series, which will not feature Depp in a significant role. However, the potential for a cameo or supporting role remains a possibility. Reports have also surfaced linking actors like Austin Butler and Margot Robbie to the new installments, indicating a shift in the franchises direction.

Despite the reboot plans, fan backlash has been substantial, with many expressing disappointment over the prospect of a Pirates film without Captain Jack Sparrow. This reaction highlights the indelible mark Depp has left on the series and the high expectations fans have for future installments.

As Disney navigates the future of the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise without Johnny Depp in a leading role, several strategic decisions and creative directions are being considered to ensure the series continued success.

Firstly, Disneys decision to reboot the franchise indicates a willingness to explore new narratives and characters. With talents like Margot Robbie and Austin Butler being eyed for prominent roles, the studio aims to inject fresh energy into the series. Robbies involvement suggests a potential female-led storyline, which could attract a diverse audience and offer a new perspective within the Pirates universe.

The development of multiple scripts for Pirates of the Caribbean 6 showcases Disneys commitment to keeping the franchise alive, albeit in a different form. One script involving Margot Robbie is particularly intriguing, as it suggests a shift away from the traditional Captain Jack Sparrow-centric plots. This new direction could revitalize the series by introducing innovative story arcs and character dynamics.

Moreover, the potential inclusion of Emmy winner Ayo Edebiri from FXs The Bear indicates Disneys interest in going with a younger cast moving forward. While official confirmation is pending, Edebiris involvement could further broaden the series appeal and modernize its narrative approach.

Despite these new developments, the challenge for Disney lies in meeting the high expectations set by Depps portrayal of Captain Jack Sparrow. The franchises success is largely attributed to Depps unique blend of humor, charisma, and unpredictability, which brought the character to life. To maintain the franchises appeal, Disney will need to craft compelling stories and develop characters that resonate with audiences as strongly as Captain Jack Sparrow did.

If Depp does not return, Disney could explore spin-offs or prequels that delve into other aspects of the Pirates universe. This approach would allow the studio to expand the franchise while staying true to its adventurous spirit. Additionally, leveraging modern technology and visual effects could enhance the storytelling experience and attract a new generation of viewers.

What do you think of the latest Johnny Depp developments? Let Inside the Magic know in the comments!

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Johnny Depp Spotted on Disney Set, 'Pirates of the Caribbean 6' Confirmed - Inside the Magic - Inside the Magic

As the worlds coral reefs suffer a fourth global bleaching event, heat stress in the Caribbean is accumulating even earlier than it did in 2023, the previous record year for the region, according to data made public on Thursday by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

I hate that I have to keep using that word unprecedented, said Derek Manzello, coordinator of the agencys Coral Reef Watch Program. But, again, we are seeing unprecedented patterns again this year.

Scientists hope that relief will set in as the natural climate pattern known as El Nio, which is associated with warmer ocean temperatures, fades. Officials said conditions were quickly changing to a neutral state, with a cooler La Nia forecast for this summer or fall.

But right now, temperatures in the Caribbean off Panama, Costa Rica, Nicaragua and Colombia are hitting levels that previously havent been seen until weeks later, an ominous signal after the heat that ravaged reefs across the region last year. Scientists say they are still determining the scale of the death from last years bleaching. A study of the reefs off Huatulco in Oaxaca, Mexico, found coral mortality ranging from 50 percent to 93 percent, depending on the reef area.

Bleaching occurs when stressors cause coral to lose the symbiotic algae that help to nourish them. While coral can survive bleaching spells, exposure to prolonged or repeated bleaching can kill the tiny animals. Even those that recover initially may succumb to disease in the following year or two.

While all kinds of stressors can cause coral bleaching, including pollution or changes in salinity, the four global bleaching events on record, which started in 1998, have all been caused by warm ocean temperatures. Researchers have estimated that the world has lost half of its coral cover since 1950.

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Heat Stress Is Hitting Caribbean Reefs Earlier Than Ever This Year - The New York Times

The best place to party on the Caribbean island of Curaao is Mambo Beach, near the islands capital, Willemstad. On weekends, DJs outperform each other, spinning the hottest music at shoreside hotels and beach clubs. Tourists and locals dance the night long, consuming beer, cocktails, rum, soft drinks, and maybe water.

Then, at 4 a.m., when the last partyers have fallen asleep on the beachs sunbeds, the Green Phenix team arrives and starts collecting the garbage strewn by guests.

Green Phenix is a local environmental startup that has set itself a big goal: To clean up Curaao. This is more than a civic duty it may also be a national imperative: Waste disposal has become a serious problem on the island, which is the size of Manhattan, and its getting worse. The same is true on islands across the Caribbean.

In 2020, each [Curaao] islander produced an average of 1,200 kilograms [about 2,650 pounds] of waste per year, says Ciaretta Profas, a government adviser on environmental policy. Thats three times as much as usual in Latin America, she adds. Of course, this isnt because the inhabitants of Curaao are particularly wasteful, but because all the garbage left behind by tourists is statistically attributed to the 150,000 inhabitants.

Profas is now part of an interdisciplinary team overhauling the island nations waste management system, which was underfinanced for more than 20 years and of no interest to politicians, according to a study.

Our goal is to transition towards a circular economy, Profas says. Thats a tall order, but one necessary for Caribbean nations to embrace if tourism is to go on thriving in the islands.

Sabine Berendse, the founder of Green Phenix, is pleased at the creation of hers and similar projects, but shes also skeptical that the pace of implementation can match the urgency of the titanic trash problem.

Currently, Mount Christoffel, with its 1,220 feet [height] 372 meters is the highest point of Curaao, she notes. In five years, Mont Malpais will tower above it. Malpais is the islands only dump, and is managed by a public-private association. Its an old landfill, lacking adequate soil coverage, suffering from toxic leaching and odorous gas releases that are polluting the surrounding area.

Green Phenix was founded in 2019 by Berendse, and inspired by a morning beach walk when she stumbled across dead turtles suffocated in discarded fishing nets. Plastic refuse was everywhere.

Thats when the idea struck her: This sprawling impromptu garbage dump could be a source of regular work, lifting the self-confidence of those living on the margins of society: The unemployed, single parents, and the disabled.

Green Phenix started as a social beach cleanup program, with the salaries of the 24 part-time employees sourced from a state welfare fund. Today, it has morphed into a small business, not only cleaning beaches but also recycling some of the collected plastic waste at an old Caribbean villa on the outskirts of Willemstad.

Plastic bottles made from polyethylene terephthalate (PET, the most common plastic), yogurt containers composed of polypropylene (PP), cleaning agent bottles made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and aluminum cans are now collected and transformed at the recycling facility; the rest of the collected garbage still goes to Mount Malpais.

There seems to be no limit to the creativity practiced by the eight full-time employees at the Green Phenix repurposing plant. Some shred big pieces of plastic, melt them in an oven, then turn them into party decorations. Others produce plastic threads used in 3D printers to make flower vases, dishes and cups. Erwin Sprot, a 64-year-old artist, has his studio here and makes bracelets from can tops and sculptures from the crown caps of beer bottles. For me, its a challenge to make art out of what others throw away, he says.

Much of this output is sold in Irvin Bernards souvenir store at Mambo Beach. Hes the chair of the local business association and closely collaborates with Berendse. We are all benefiting from this project: the hotel owners, the tourists, the locals and the environment, he says.

His association has joined in and tried to cut out the middleman: A few month ago, it set up bins that conscientious tourists now use for waste separation, saving Green Phenix employees the trouble and time of picking up beach trash a bottle at a time.

Information about the innovative cleanup initiative is available at Curaao hotels, and interested tourists can even include garbage activities in their vacation itineraries: visiting the recycling factory and taking part in beach cleanups.

Green Phenix is a successful initiative, but its work is barely a drop in the ocean when compared to the rapidly rising tide of waste overwhelming the Caribbean Basin. This eco-region, composed of small island states, is drowning in waste, especially plastic pollution, which has been increasing exponentially for three decades.

According to the World Bank, the amount of plastic on Caribbean beaches far exceeds the global average, with 2,014 items per kilometer (3,241 per mile), compared to 573/km (922/mi) worldwide. It has become an eyesore and nuisance for tourism, one of the main income sources for most Caribbean nations. With vacation dollars at risk, the problem can no longer be ignored.

But the Caribbean small island states share similar unsurmountable waste management challenges: Land is very limited, so long-term reliance on landfilling is unsustainable. Likewise, exporting waste is increasingly difficult as former buyer countries such as China drop out of the market, while shipping costs have risen sharply since the COVID-19 pandemic.

These small economies also have limited resources, so its challenging to set up financially viable national recycling program; waste quantities are too small and recycling remains an unattractive business because the value of most waste materials is too low.

Plastics add an additional challenge, as there are thousands of chemically distinct varieties (some of them toxic) and they cant be recycled together. Meanwhile, plastic entering the environment and not cleaned up degrades into polluting micro- and nanoparticles.

Add to this a new report warning that the plastic industrys growth trajectory is exponential [with] production expected to double or triple by 2050, along with a just completed U.N. plastics treaty session that made almost no progress toward limiting manufacture.

All this combines to create a pricey crisis for island nations that urgently need solutions.

Thats why we need a regional approach towards a circular economy, Eva Ringhof says. Shes the managing director of Caribe Circular, an initiative co-hosted by the System of Central American Integration (SICA) and the German development agency GIZ.

The program, launched in 2021, is now present in eight SICA member countries, and has four lines of action: Supporting local projects, campaigns and education to raise waste problem awareness; joining with the business sector to design business models for better disposal; and supporting government with management plans and legislation models.

Reduce, reuse and recycle are the three core principles of circular waste management, notes Ringhof, but reducing is key: We are especially focusing on avoidance, she says. According to her data, 80% of the waste floating in the Caribbeans turquoise waters is produced on land and washed to the sea by rivers.

The Caribbean tourism industry is intensely interested in reducing that trash flow using the circular economy as a tool. So Caribe Circular started by working with it. According to Ringhof, 52 large hotels within the eight participating Caribbean countries have already reduced up to 30% of their throwaway waste by adopting some simple but effective changes. Many facilities, for example, now avoid single-use plastics by packaging guest lunches in recyclable or reusable containers, or by installing permanent refillable shampoo dispensers to replace individual plastic-packed personal hygiene products.

Another sector advancing rapidly toward sustainability is agriculture. At a recent workshop, regional participants presented ideas for replacing the black plastic bags currently used to hold seedlings. Many biodegradable products (made cheaply from leftover avocado seeds, banana or coconut fiber) can do the same job.

The change is a bit more difficult when industrial processes are concerned, Ringhof notes. These firms often must compete on a regional or global market, so are extremely cost-focused. Plastic is cheaper than many other materials, so market incentives for replacing it are low, except for businesses eager to present a sustainable image to consumers.

Thats why Caribe Circular is working with Caribbean governments to develop laws that will make it more expensive to use plastics, by taxing plastic packaging or holding producers responsible for the end-of-life consequences of their goods, called extended producer responsibility. Such rules could, for example, require a beverage manufacturer to take back its PET plastic bottles to reuse or recycle them, or replace them with eco-friendly materials.

Environmentalists also have hopes that the United Nations treaty on plastic waste, when negotiations resume, will increase pressure on companies to do more.

However, getting Caribbean trash under control will be an uphill battle, as events in the Dominican Republic illustrate. In 2020, the countrys parliament passed a law on the handling of solid waste and the government started charging a tax on businesses to help pay for a transition to a circular economy.

But the conversion was slow to materialize, especially because with a dozen plastic-manufacturing facilities in the country, there are large-scale interests at stake. The Dominican Republics ban on single-use plastic should have come into force in 2022, and at least 20 landfill sites should have been cleaned up by this year, according to the law. Neither happened.

In 2021, the lobby for single-use plastics achieved, first a postponement, and then the cancellation of the prohibition date, explains Nelson Bautista, from Accion Verde, an NGO. He expresses disappointment over the lack of political will and doesnt expect enforcement of the circular economy law any time soon.

Waldys Taveras agrees, and he stands ankle-deep in plastic waste to make his point: Not one single landfill in the country disposes of waste properly, and recycling facilities only exist where private companies have invested, he says. Taveras is the former commissioner for environment for Santo Domingo, the Dominican Republics capital, and for the surrounding counties.

He surveys the catastrophic situation at the Azua landfill, about 100 km (62 mi) from Santo Domingo. The unsightly open-air dump sits next to a protected area and overlooks a beautiful bay bordered by white sand. While Taveras talks, some people rummage through the garbage, most of them Haitian migrants separating PET bottles for a businessman who twice a week charters a truck and takes the load to a factory near the capital where its turned into plastic pellets for export.

There is a plan by the European Union and Japan, together with a Spanish company, to reconvert the dump into a sanitary landfill with a recycling plant where these people could work with dignity, says Taveras, but the Ministry of Environment just doesnt move forward.

The official currently in charge of that project is Indhira de Jess, the vice minister for environmental management, who tells Mongabay shes confident the impasse will soon be resolved. But as the landfill will be next to a protected area, the process is complicated, she adds.

Questioned about the slow implementation of the countrys circular economy law, she admits the original timeline was overly optimistic. Trash management does not only involve the government, but also companies and municipalities and implies a change of culture in the citizenry. It is complex.

Industry isnt unaware of the trash problem. The influential Association of Industries of the Dominican Republic (AIRD) is now acting to stem the waste problem, in coordination with the initiative by Caribe Circular.

Twenty plastic bottle producers and bottling companies have come together in a project called Nuvi to organize the collection and recycling of PET bottles.

It was complex first to design the system and then to implement and socialize it, says Mario Pujols, AIRDs vice president. The association has set up 100 recycling bins in the capital, and while these have collected some 82 million bottles since 2020, thats still less than 1% of total sales volume. There is still a lack of awareness among the population. Much more needs to happen in terms of education, says Pujols.

The need for education is apparent throughout the Caribbean, where its a widespread custom to simply throw garbage over a road embankment or into the nearest river.

Thats why people living beside the Motagua River in Guatemala, a Caribe Circular participant, launched their circular solutions campaign with environmental education. The Ecoaprendiendo program is giving lectures at 200 schools in the river basin. They show kids how to sort garbage for recycling, train teachers, and work with the Ministry of Education to put environmental education in the curriculum.

The 500-km (300-mi) Motagua River crosses Guatemala, passes near the capital, and flows into the Caribbean and its emblematic of the regions trash crisis. None of the 96 municipalities through which it flows has a garbage collection system. Thats why more than 60 metric tons of trash per day end up in the Caribbean Sea just from the Motagua. Currents carry the waste to the beaches of neighboring Honduras and threaten its tourism and fishing industries.

The problem was so big that in 2022 it provoked a diplomatic spat, with the Honduran government threatening Guatemala with an international lawsuit. Guatemala responded by placing fences at the mouth of the Motagua River to collect the garbage. But there are frequent breakages and spills. And, of course, microplastics slip through the fence and contaminate the nearby Mesoamerican coral reef, the second largest in the world.

In the past, Guatemalan officials, business leaders and environmentalists blamed each other for the ongoing disaster. Alianza Motagua, an NGO founded in October 2023, wanted to end the blame game and get the bickering parties to cooperate.

So far, it has brought together 56 environmental organizations, business associations, charities, international entities, and public officials from Guatemala and Honduras to take on the Herculean task of reducing and properly disposing of all that trash.

Our goal is to clean the Motagua River within 10 years. Nobody can do that on their own. We all have to work together, says spokesperson Suceli Girn.

Banner image: Green Phenix artist Erwin Sprot with one of his creations, a human figure made with beer crown caps. Image by Sandra Weiss.

At its fourth summit, 170 nations strive toward a global plastics treaty by 2025

Citation:

Gilbert, L. L. (2016). Waste to energy islands: Is converting waste to energy more feasible then traditional landfills for small islands, like Curaao? (Masters thesis, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands). Retrieved from https://edepot.wur.nl/530602

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Can the circular economy help the Caribbean win its war against waste? - Mongabay.com

A new model developed by researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory could help keep the lights on even when hurricanes darken the skies, according to Tech Xplore.

This breakthrough enables better predictions of how much solar energy output drops during tropical storms, empowering utilities to compensate for those dips.

When storm clouds block the sun, solar panels can lose a significant portion of their electricity generation, as Solar Alliance has detailed. For hurricane-prone regions shifting to renewable energy like the Caribbean islands, that's a big problem. Power disruptions disproportionately impact underserved island residents who can't easily evacuate.

The researchers explored linking island electric grids with undersea cables to form "super grids." Sharing solar energy across a broad network could maintain steadier power flow when parts of the grid are shaded by storms.

After running simulations, the team analyzed different grid configurations to determine which approach would maximize power availability. The winning combo? Connecting the U.S. and Caribbean grids. Linking the Caribbean islands alone proved the least effective since hurricane paths often align with the island chain.

Lead researcher Rodney Itiki started investigating these "super grids" after Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico in 2017, causing the longest blackout in U.S. history. Some residents went nearly a year without power, per the information provided by Tech Xplore.

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"I don't think people are planning photovoltaic [solar] plants while taking hurricane shading into account," Itiki said. "Utilities are choosing locations with the maximum sun exposure, but they also need to consider the normal trajectory of hurricanes. If all the plants are concentrated in Florida, and a hurricane hits there, it will create a maximum power valley."

His model offers a vital tool for strategically placing solar farms and transmission lines to minimize storm disruptions.

While studies are still needed on the costs and eco-impacts of undersea power cables, this research illuminates how we can build a more resilient, clean energy future. Being able to predict solar generation dips empowers utilities to prepare backup power sources like batteries.

Every block of preparation builds toward a brighter tomorrow. As the Caribbean aims to ditch expensive, polluting power sources, this innovative model could prove key to keeping the sunshine's power flowing to those who need it most. That's a win-win for people and the planet we share.

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Researchers propose building US-Caribbean 'super grid' to offset solar energy losses during tropical storms: 'Need to ... - The Cool Down

Caribbean Week spokesperson Rosa Harris.

Photo courtesy CTO

The Barbados-based Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) said on Friday that the much-awaited Caribbean Week is set to sparkle in New York City from June 16-21.

CTO said this event, a highlight on the calendar for travel industry professionals and enthusiasts alike, will be held at the InterContinental New York Times Square in the bustling heart of midtown Manhattan.

Rosa Harris, chairman of the CTO Board of Directors and the weeks spokesperson, said the intergovernmental organization was pleased to return to The Big Apple in 2024 to connect with the regions culture and heritage and have serious conversations about the business of tourism and the business of the Caribbean.

Theres always business in the New York tri-state area, and we have a burgeoning diaspora that we must connect with, said Harris, the director of tourism for the Cayman Islands. June is a great time for us to come together as a region and celebrate what we do well during Caribbean-American Heritage Month.

Under the banner of CTOs 35th anniversary theme, Connecting the Globe, Celebrating Diversity, Harris said Caribbean Week 2024 will showcase a dynamic lineup of events and business meetings.

She said these sessions will involve the CTO Executive Committee, Board of Directors and Ministerial Council.

Harris said the discussions will focus on the critical issues shaping the evolution and growth of Caribbean tourism, providing an opportunity for robust and strategic dialogue.

CTO said the week begins with a church service and a Business and Tourism Marketing Symposium. The Caribbean Media Awards, honoring journalists and influencers who have notably promoted Caribbean tourism, will return alongside the much-anticipated Media Marketplace.

In line with fostering innovation, CTO said a special session dedicated to artificial intelligence will underscore the organizations forward-thinking approach.

Additionally, it said the spotlight will be on the impactful work of the CTO Foundation and the recently launched Jean Holder Scholarship.

CTO said a wide range of topics will be covered, including service excellence, enhancing connections between New York City and the region, airlift strategies, multicultural marketing, travel trade relations, public relations, crisis communications, and smart destination management.

Further emphasizing inclusivity and leadership, CTO said the week will feature a leadership breakfast and awards ceremony focused on womens empowerment, alongside a Cricket Ceremony and Watch Party.

Supported by headline sponsor the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation, gold sponsor the Cayman Islands Department of Tourism, and the Caribbean Media Exchange, CTO said Caribbean Week in New York promises an unforgettable experience.

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CTO says Caribbean Week in NYC 'set to sparkle' Caribbean Life - Caribbean Life

Tuesday, May 21, 2024

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The travel industry is on a roll in 2024,with people spending more and traveling further.A new report by Mastercard Economics Institute says this is great news for many economies,especially those in the Caribbean.

Island Hopping in the Caribbean

The report shows that four Caribbean destinations are top picks for American travelers this summer.These are Oranjestad,Aruba; Punta Cana,Dominican Republic; San Juan,Puerto Rico; and Santiago,Dominican Republic.Oranjestad even cracked the global top ten for trending destinations!

Affordability Makes a Splash

The report says that Caribbean islands with good deals on hotels are doing especially well.Tourists are staying longer and spending more in these places.For example,the average stay in Barbados is now 8.5 days,up from 7.8 days in 2020.This is likely due to affordability and the nice weather.

Global Trends: Longer Trips, Record Numbers

All over the world,people are taking longer vacations an average of 5.5 days in 2024 compared to 4.5 days in 2020.The first half of this year saw record numbers of Americans traveling internationally,with over 15.9 million jetting off between January and March.This shows how well the travel industry has adjusted to new travel habits and what people want.

Experiences over Souvenirs

Travelers today are more interested in making memories than buying stuff.In fact,experiences now account for 12% of all tourism sales,the highest level in at least five years.This means people are looking for unique and valuable experiences,and travel destinations are having to step up their game.

Cruising Makes a Comeback

Cruises are more popular than ever before,even compared to before the pandemic.The Bahamas,for instance,has seen nearly 3 million more cruise passengers this year than in 2019.This shows that cruises are a great way to see the world for an affordable price.

New and Classic Travel Hotspots

Japan is the most popular tourist destination overall,while Munich is the summer travel hotspot.In Europe,Albania is becoming a favorite for budget-minded travelers.This shows that people are looking for all sorts of travel experiences,from familiar favorites to exciting new places.

Mastercard: Helping Tourism Thrive

Mastercard is a big supporter of the global travel industry.They do this by providing market analysis,data insights,and strategies to connect with customers.Their goal is to make travel experiences personal and build brand loyalty,keeping the travel industry strong and responsive to what people want in 2024.

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Caribbean Hot in 2024 Tourism Surge - Travel And Tour World

On International Womens Day, the ECLAC Executive Secretary, Jos Manuel Salazar-Xirinachs, noted that today, on March 8, we recognize that the region is moving in the right direction, but very slowly to achieve the goals of real equality in 2030. Without a doubt, we can do more. With women's leadership, men's commitment, and political will, we can build a better society that prioritizes caring for people and the planet. Today's world requires bold changes and urgent transformations, starting with ending the historical exclusion of women in all areas of Society.

Within this framework, ECLAC carried out various activities. ECLAC presented the document "The content and scope of the right to care, and its interrelation with other rights" at the hearing of the Inter-American Court of Human Rights, the second week of March in San Jos, Costa Rica, in the framework of the request for an advisory opinion that Argentina presented on January 20, 2023.

During the 68th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW 68), from 11 to 22 March 2024 at United Nations Headquarters in New York, Governments, United Nations entities and non-governmental organizations from all regions of the world, discussed the priority theme Accelerating the achievement of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls by addressing poverty and strengthening institutions and financing with a gender perspective.

This occasion was an opportunity to contribute, from the commitments of the Regional Gender Agenda and other regional agreements and with the care society as a horizon, to global deliberations on the achievement of gender equality and the autonomy of women. The region contributed to the Declaration of the Ministers and High Authorities of the National Mechanisms for the Advancement of Women of Latin America and the Caribbean for CSW68. In it, the Ministers and high authorities of the region recognize that to achieve gender equality and guarantee the human rights of women, adolescents and girls in all their diversity, and the exercise of their autonomy, it is necessary to overcome the four structural knots of gender inequality: socioeconomic inequality and poverty; the sexual division of labor; the concentration of power; and patriarchal cultural patterns.

In this framework, the "High-level Dialogue: Bases for a Bi-regional Pact for Care between Latin America, the Caribbean and the European Union" was carried out, in association with the EU-LAC Foundation, UN Women, the Global Alliance for Care, the National Institute of Women of Mexico (INMUJERES) and the UNDP. The initiative seeks to promote cooperation in public policies and comprehensive care systems between the countries of both regions, through the exchange of advances and promising practices in care policies, systems, programs and benefits; of comparative studies and analysis on topics linked to care, among other topics. In addition, ECLAC accompanied the countries of the region in parallel events.

Finally, ECLAC together with UN Women presented the publication The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Regional Gender Agenda in Latin America and the Caribbean: Gender Indicators to 2023, a document that presents a descriptive analysis of gender indicators. for monitoring the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the 2030 Agenda and the set of prioritized indicators for monitoring the SDGs in the region, in synchronization with the Regional Gender Agenda of Latin America and the Caribbean.

Among the findings, the document highlights the achievements in equality before the law in the region, marked by advances in the construction of institutions and legal frameworks for equality. However, we confirm the structural persistence of gender inequality. The data calls for action:

The publication becomes a reference instrument for decision-makers in the region, and constitutes a basis for deliberations during CSW 68, as highlighted in the Briefing on the 68th Session of the CSW 68 of February 28. The launch of the publication was carried out within the framework of the Forum of the Countries of Latin America and the Caribbean on Sustainable Development 2024, in the parallel event The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Regional Gender Agenda in Latin America and the Caribbean: Gender Indicators to 2023.

ECLAC calls to eradicate the income and time poverty that women face, invest to improve their living conditions and promote their full participation in the economy, politics, society and in science and innovation. But any progress will be incomplete without guaranteeing the right of women and girls to a life free of violence, discrimination, and child marriage (see the ECLAC reports on femicide and child marriage for more information.

Therefore, we reiterate our call to continue designing and implementing bold solutions that allow us to close gender gaps. We have the capacity, and the objectives are set. Investing in gender equality is investing in a better world.

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Investing in gender equality in Latin America and the Caribbean for a better world - Comisin Econmica para Amrica Latina y el Caribe

Home HOTEL NEWS Patricia Affonso-Dass: Leading The Way In Caribbean Hospitality

Tuesday, May 21, 2024

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Patricia Affonso-Dass, Group GM of Ocean Hotels Group in Barbados, named Caribbean Hotelier of the Year by CHTA, celebrated for her exceptional leadership and dedication.

Patricia Affonso-Dass, the Group General Manager of Ocean Hotels Group in Barbados, has been honored as the Caribbean Hotelier of the Year by the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA). This award highlights her extensive dedication and outstanding leadership in the hospitality sector, emphasizing her substantial impact on both Barbados and the broader Caribbean region.

Born in Dominica, Affonso-Dasss Caribbean heritage is rich and diverse, having lived in Trinidad and Antigua before settling in Guyana, where she was raised. For the past 22 years, she has called Barbados home.

Her academic journey led her to Florida International University, where she earned a degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management. With over three decades in the industry, her career began with CHTA (previously CHA, linked with the Caribbean Hospitality Training Institute), and she played a pioneering role in Guyana, managing an eco-resort and co-founding the Guyana Hotel and Tourism Association, where she also served as an early president. Currently, as the head of Ocean Hotels Group, her commitment to excellence and elevating Caribbean tourism standards remains unwavering.

Affonso-Dass is a firm advocate for the transformative power of local hotel and tourism associations. She has served as President of the Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association and has been actively involved in regional industry development, serving on the Board and Executive Committee of CHTA. Her peers later elected her as CHTA President.

During her tenure as CHTA President from 2018 to 2020, she adeptly managed the aftermath of major hurricanes and the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her leadership was crucial in shaping tourism policy and fostering collaboration among industry stakeholders during these trying times.

Vanessa Ledesma, CHTAs Acting CEO and Director General, commented, Patricias exceptional leadership was instrumental in steering the association through this period of uncertainty and recovery. Her deep-rooted support for the development of Caribbean people has been exemplified throughout her career, as shes discovered and developed countless local talent, mentoring and guiding them, with many moving on to positions of senior management and leadership in the industry.

Under the strategic guidance of Patricia Affonso-Dass, Ocean Hotels Group has emerged as a beacon of hospitality excellence in Barbados. Her hands-on approach and visionary leadership have been instrumental in the successful management of properties such as O2 Beach Club & Spa, Sea Breeze Beach House, and The Rockley. Each of these establishments provides guests with a unique experience deeply rooted in Bajan authenticity, ensuring that their stay is both memorable and enriching.

Rene Coppin, Chairman of the Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA), remarked, Patricias commitment to service and excellence is unmatched. Her leadership has not only elevated Ocean Hotels Group but has also positively impacted the wider Caribbean tourism landscape.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Patricia Affonso-Dass has been a relentless advocate for the hospitality industry, serving in numerous capacities within the Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA). As President, she played a crucial role in shaping tourism policy and promoting collaboration among industry stakeholders.

The Caribbean Hotelier of the Year Award, one of the most prestigious accolades granted by the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA), acknowledges exceptional performance in Caribbean hotel operations. This award celebrates outstanding achievements in resort operations, food and beverage management, marketing and sales, resort maintenance, staff training and motivation, innovative management practices, environmental sustainability, community involvement, and active participation in national and regional lodging industry associations.

Tags: Antigua travel news, Barbados Tourism News, Barbados travel news, Caribbean Hotel and Tourism news, Caribbean hotel news, Dominica travel news, Guyana travel news, hospitality news, Hotel News, Ocean Hotels news, Patricia Affonso-Dass news, Tourism news, Trinidad Travel news

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Patricia Affonso-Dass: Leading The Way In Caribbean Hospitality - Travel And Tour World

Summary

Producing legend Jerry Bruckheimer has now provided further clarity on the future of the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise, revealing that there are now two separate movies in development. Speaking with Entertainment Weekly, Bruckheimer revealed that a reboot is now in the works with a script written by Young Woman and the Sea scribe Jeff Nathanson, with the second project being the long-rumored Margot Robbie-led movie written by Birds of Preys Christina Hodson.

"It's two different movies. We hope to get 'em both made, and I think Disney agrees they really want to make the Margot one, too."

Bruckheimer went on to praise the vision of writer Jeff Nathanson, saying that he has cracked the reboot...but the script still needs some polishing.

Hes cracked it. Hes got an amazing third act. We just gotta clean up the first and second and then well get there. But he wrote a great, great third act.

This most recent update from Bruckheimer reveals what Disneys plan is for the Pirates of the Caribbean series without Jack Sparrow. Following the legal affairs of star Johnny Depp, the studio has now decided to move away from the hugely popular character and attempt to carve out something new for the franchise.

One such idea for something new is a movie led by Barbie star Margot Robbie, who has previously teased a female-led story on the high seas.

"We had an idea and we were developing it for a while, ages ago, to have more of a female-led not totally female-led, but just a different kind of story which we thought would've been really cool, but I guess they don't want to do it."

However, while the present plan is to leave Johnny Depps Jack Sparrow behind, Bruckheimer has stated that, if he gets his way, the actor and character will return to the series in the future.

If it was up to me, of course. I love having Depp... He's a great actor and good friend... I've certainly spoken to him, but we'll see what happens.

This is not the first time that the producer has praised Depp, with Bruckheimer having previously said that the A-lister would eventually recover from the fallout thats come following the various legal issues stemming from his marriage to actress and Aquaman star Amber Heard.

"Hes just so good at what he does and actors recover from things like this. Hes a good individual and hes a caring individual. Hes somebody that you can rely on and hes just terrific. I think Johnny is an utter friend and an amazing artist and, again, you go through things in life you wish you hadnt, but hes still a talented artist."

The last we saw of Jack Sparrow and the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise was in 2017s Dead Men Tell No Tales. The Pirates of the Caribbean movies are available to stream on Disney+.

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Pirates of the Caribbean Producer Confirms Two New Movies Are Now in Development - MovieWeb

Turns out that the Margot Robbie led Pirates of the Caribbean movie is still happening, but it's a separate one from the upcoming reboot.

It's been a good seven years since the last Pirates of the Caribbean film, which in one part makes me feel a bit old, but in another makes me think "hang on, they were making those films right through to 2017?" Back in March, franchise producer Jerry Bruckheimer spoke of his intention to reboot the series because that's "easier to put together because you don't have to wait for certain actors." This reboot wasn't thought to include Robbie in it, as back in 2022 in an interview with Vanity Fair she said that she guessed Disney didn't want to do it anymore despite development taking place for it. However, in a new interview with Entertainment Weekly, Bruckheimer clarified what the intention is with the franchise: "It's two different movies."

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One of them is still the reboot he previously mentioned, which should have 2019's The Lion King writer Jeff Nathanson attached to it. And the other is the film that Robbie was meant to star in, with Birds of Prey's Christina Hodson penning it. "We hope to get 'em both made, and I think Disney agrees they really want to make the Margot one, too." Obviously there's questions as to whether Robbie is even aware of this intention, but considering just how well Barbie performed last year, it isn't exactly surprising that Disney wants a cut of that Robbie star power.

If that Robbie film does end up happening, she'll have quite the busy few years ahead of her. For one, she's heading into the world of games, both video and board, as she's currently set to produce a film based on The Sims, and her production company LuckyChap is also apparently going to produce a live-action film based on Monopoly. Yes, that Monopoly. On top of that, she's also recently been in talks to star in a film based on the '90s comic Avengelyne, from Cathy Christian and Deadpool co-creator Rob Liefeld. Good luck to her, I say.

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I hope you like Pirates of the Caribbean, because both a reboot and that thought-to-be-dead Margot Robbie movie are ... - VG247