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CHRIS HEMSWORTH, CHRISTINA RICCI, KEN JEONG, WILL ARNETT AND AULI’I CRAVALHO SQUAD UP WITH SUPERCELL FOR GLOBAL GAME LAUNCH

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CHRIS HEMSWORTH, CHRISTINA RICCI, KEN JEONG, WILL ARNETT AND AULI’I CRAVALHO SQUAD UP WITH SUPERCELL FOR GLOBAL GAME LAUNCH
  • Hollywood stars face off against social media influencers in a hilarious launch trailer for Squad Busters, which is available to download now
  • The new party action game has already broken an industry record this week, becoming the fastest ever mobile game to reach 40 million pre-registrations*
  • Furiosa star Chris Hemsworth, Yellowjackets’ Christina Ricci, Masked Singer’s Ken Jeong, Smartless’ Will Arnett, Moana’s Auli’i Cravalho and some of the world’s biggest influencers complete the cast of the launch trailer

SEE PRESS KIT HERE

HELSINKI, May 29, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Supercell’s party action mobile game, Squad Busters, has launched globally today with a star-studded commercial featuring Chris Hemsworth, Christina Ricci, Ken Jeong, Will Arnett and Auli’i Cravalho.

The launch trailer sees the actors take on the personalities of iconic Supercell game characters that feature in the mobile game giant’s latest smash hit.

Squad Busters sees players take part in epic 10-person multiplayer matches, building up squads over the course of four-minute rounds and competing against rival players to grab the most gems. The game features characters from across the Supercell universe and is designed to appeal to everyone who has a mobile device – featuring intuitive and inclusive gameplay for both casual players and those looking for more intense, competitive play.

The beginning of the commercial sees a man woken in his bed by Masked Singer’s Ken Jeong, starring as an eccentric Chicken, and seeing five characters from Squad Busters surrounding him. Hemsworth features as the mighty Barbarian King, alongside Ricci’s dark presence as Witch, Arnett as friendly lumberjack Greg and Cravalho as the sweet, shotgun-wielding Shelly.

The celebrity squad then embark on their mission to bring fun to their player’s life; following him from morning to night. In a series of comical scenes, directed by Jody Hill, the cast accompany our gamer to a job interview, into a toilet cubicle, and cram inside a car to give a Carpool Karaoke-style rendition of Nickelback classic ‘How You Remind Me’.

The Hollywood gang, while quipping about Ricci’s skeleton-summoning staff, encounter another player’s squad whose characters are played by Internet sensations including TikTok superstar Bella Poarch as Witch, real-life woodcutter Thoren Bradley as Greg, lip-syncing legend Gabriela Moura as Shelly and YouTube extraordinaire ZHC as Chicken.

In a knowing wink to the viewer, Seth Phillips, better known as Dude With Sign, makes a brief cameo during the battle to ‘appeal to a younger audience’.

Squad Busters is Supercell’s first global game launch in over five years and has been highly anticipated. According to the company’s internal analysis and as of today, the game has achieved 40 million pre-registrations*, making it the fastest ever mobile game to reach that milestone. This blew away Supercell’s internal targets for the launch, with the company anticipating the game to follow in the footsteps of its previous hits – Hay Day, Clash of Clans, Boom Beach, Clash Royale and Brawl Stars – by generating more than $1bn in lifetime revenue.

Ilkka Paananen, CEO of Supercell, said: “After an incredible response to the global announcement of Squad Busters, we’re thrilled that players worldwide will all now be able to enjoy the game! Our game teams have a massively high-quality bar for releasing new games, which on the flip side means they kill most of the games they work on. This has meant we haven’t launched a new game for over five years. That’s why this moment, the launch of Squad Busters, feels so special! I want to thank the Squad team for their amazing work, which has led to releasing a new, incredibly fun game for our players worldwide to play.”

“To mark this launch, our team wanted to create a show-stopping moment, so it felt fitting to have Hollywood icons face off against social media stars in a fun way, showing that life really is more fun when you’re with a squad!” 

Fans across the world with iOS and Android devices can download the game now.

Notes to Editors
* inclusive of pre-registrations, as well as downloads in the markets Squad Busters has been playable in since 25th April

About Supercell
Supercell is a game company based in Helsinki, Finland, with offices in San Francisco, Seoul, and Shanghai. Since its launch in 2010, the company has brought five games to the global market: Hay Day, Clash of Clans, Boom Beach, Clash Royale, and Brawl Stars. Supercell’s dream is to create games that as many people as possible play for years and that are remembered forever.

CHRIS HEMSWORTH, CHRISTINA RICCI, KEN JEONG, WILL ARNETT AND AULI'I CRAVALHO SQUAD UP WITH SUPERCELL FOR GLOBAL GAME LAUNCH
CHRIS HEMSWORTH, CHRISTINA RICCI, KEN JEONG, WILL ARNETT AND AULI’I CRAVALHO SQUAD UP WITH SUPERCELL FOR GLOBAL GAME LAUNCH
CHRIS HEMSWORTH, CHRISTINA RICCI, KEN JEONG, WILL ARNETT AND AULI'I CRAVALHO SQUAD UP WITH SUPERCELL FOR GLOBAL GAME LAUNCH
CHRIS HEMSWORTH, CHRISTINA RICCI, KEN JEONG, WILL ARNETT AND AULI’I CRAVALHO SQUAD UP WITH SUPERCELL FOR GLOBAL GAME LAUNCH

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5 secret summer-travel packing hacks to maximize carry-on space and minimize stress

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5 secret summer-travel packing hacks to maximize carry-on space and minimize stress

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With the unofficial start of the summer season upon us, trips to the beach, mountains, abroad or elsewhere are on the calendars of millions of Americans — with packing lists well underway. 

Bag fees for summer travel can add up, though — and experts say there’s a better way. 

Some baggage fees for major airlines are threatening even the most reasonable of travel budgets, so managing director of 1st Move International Mike Harvey, based in the U.K., shared some tips for how to pack for a summer vacation with nothing but a carry-on.

SUMMER TRAVEL: HOW TO PACK A CARRY-ON (AND NOTHING MORE!) THIS VACATION

“Travelers are increasingly recognizing the benefits of packing a minimal travel bag, which means reduced stress, faster airport navigation and long-term cost savings on baggage fees,” he told Fox News Digital. 

He added, “A minimal travel bag aids in navigating different transportation and terrains easily.”

Mike profile

Mike Harvey, managing director of 1st Move International, revealed his top tips for traveling with just a carry-on case this summer. “Packing a minimal travel bag” means “reduced stress,” he said. (1st Move International)

Harvey said his No. 1 tip for learning how to maximize space in a carry-on bag is to try the Marie Kondo folding technique. 

Here are more details and five tips. 

1. Fold clothes strategically 

Clothes should be folded in compact rectangles that can then be propped upright in your bag. 

8 LUGGAGE-PACKING TIPS FOR TRAVELERS LOOKING TO SAVE SPACE — AND MONEY

Harvey said this expert tip is a “game-changer.”

Carry on luggage

Packing a carry-on bag smartly for summer travel this year can be achieved using some very specific tips. (iStock)

“It not only saves space but also makes it easier to see and access each item without messing up the rest of the arrangement,” he said in a media statement. 

2. Tuck items inside shoes

Harvey recommended putting various items inside your shoes within your carry-on bag to take advantage of that empty space. 

TEXAS FLIGHT ATTENDANT REVEALS BEST TRAVEL TIPS FOR STRESS-FREE SUMMER FLIGHTS

Items such as socks, underwear and electronics can be stuffed inside shoes, Harvey said. 

“This has the added benefit of helping your shoes maintain their shape during travel,” he said.

During summer travel this year, want to get everything into one carry-on bag? An expert said shoes can be used for tucking away small items.  (iStock)

3. Layer items smartly

“Place heavier items like shoes and toiletry bags at the bottom, followed by nearly folded clothes arranged vertically,” he said in a statement. 

AIR TRAVEL MADE BETTER: 20 RULES OF AIRPLANE ETIQUETTE NO EVER TELLS YOU (BUT SHOULD)

Harvey said by placing your items in a Tetris form, you’ll help distribute weight and prevent clothes from wrinkling during travel. 

He also recommended filling the gaps with smaller items to hold in the formation. 

Man walking in airport

Take one carry-on bag, recommended an expert — and “place heavier items like shoes and toiletry bags at the bottom, followed by nearly folded clothes arranged vertically.” (iStock)

4. Use vacuum-sealed bags wisely

The moving specialist also said not to sleep on vacuum-sealed bags to compress bigger, bulky items in your carry-on. 

“Social media users love vacuum-sealed bags for compressing bigger items like jackets and jumpers into flat packages,” he said.

‘HUSH VACATIONS’ TREND AS REMOTE WORKERS SLIP OFF FOR TRAVEL GETAWAYS WITHOUT TELLING THE BOSS 

Although often used for storage, a vacuum-sealed bag within a carry-on could allow you to take along more items for this year’s summer vacation.

Carry on and traveler

What about packing jewelry and electronics? There are smart ways to keep these items tangle-free during any summer trip.  (iStock)

5. Invest in accessory organizers

Keeping necklaces and bracelets tangle-free during travel can be quite a feat for some — and packing electronics can be challenging, too. 

Purchase jewelry and electronic organizers, said Harvey, to put in a carry-on to ensure chains and wires don’t get crossed. 

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

“Jewelry and electronic organizers help by keeping your accessories and wires tangle-free and within close reach of each other,” he said. “So don’t have to rummage through your suitcase to locate one small item,” he said.

Meanwhile, others are hitting pause this summer on travel plans — or driving instead of flying

Even as many folks get ready to head out for summer vacation this year, a recent Fox poll found that more than half of Americans are staying home this summer or tweaking their travel plans to be more affordable — starting with Memorial Day weekend.

Cars drive on road with American flags up

Some travelers this summer are opting to drive rather than fly, according to a recent Fox poll.  (iStock)

High prices have affected summer plans “some or a great deal” for the 72% who responded to the Fox poll.

“All of it kinda snowballs together, so it’s not just one thing that affects it, it’s like everything comes together — you have to think of it like one sort of package,” said Tiana Armstrong, who had planned on visiting Italy with her partner, to FOX Business. 

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

The Armstrongs are changing their flight plans to save money, they said — while others are changing their travel option from flying to driving. 

Olivianna Calmes of Fox News contributed reporting. 

For more Lifestyle articles, visit www.foxnews.com/lifestyle. 

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Approachable Hotel in Ginza, Tokyo Opens to Give an Insight into Local Culture – The Royal Park Hotel Ginza 6-chome

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Approachable Hotel in Ginza, Tokyo Opens to Give an Insight into Local Culture – The Royal Park Hotel Ginza 6-chome

Mitsubishi Estate Hotels & Resorts Co., Ltd. opens its third hotel in Tokyo’s famous Ginza district on Thursday, May 30th, 2024. While the area is known for its upmarket shopping and dining, the new hotel offers a friendly and convenient place to stay where guests can immerse themselves in deeper aspects of Ginza culture.

TOKYO, May 29, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Mitsubishi Estate Hotels & Resorts Co., Ltd. announces the opening of its new establishment, The Royal Park Hotel Ginza 6-chome.

Corner Deluxe Twin
Corner Deluxe Twin

(https://www.royalparkhotels.co.jp/the/ginza6/)

Convenience and Calm

To provide both a comfortable and convenient place to stay, the new hotel is located in Ginza’s 6-chome area, close to Higashi-Ginza Station. It avoids the noise and crowds of central Ginza, without compromising on convenience. Higashi-Ginza Station is connected to the Asakusa Line, which allows for easy access to sightseeing spots like Asakusa, as well as to both international airports, Haneda and Narita.

The convenient location means that guests can easily use the hotel as their base for exploring more of Tokyo, as well as exploring Ginza on a deeper level. The area may be known for its high-end shopping and dining opportunities, but staying in Ginza opens the door to uncover a more cultural side of the district. Explore the area’s art galleries, or the flavors of the Tsukiji Outer Market. Find local temples and shrines like Tsukiji Honganji, and experience traditional performances of Kabuki.

Ginza Culture and Food

The main theme of the new hotel is “GINZA POP,” which draws on elements of Ginza’s vibrant culture.

Nods to Ginza’s culture can be seen throughout the hotel in its facilities, food, and décor. Throughout the hotel, guests are also greeted by tastefully refreshing greens and yellows, inspired by the line of Ginkgo and willow trees nearby. The Ginza area is also known for traditional Kabuki, and in Kabuki theaters you will often see the colors black, a persimmon red-orange, and muted green. So, these colors have been implemented into the room designs alongside retro patterns to create a lively atmosphere.

Taking the retro atmosphere a step further, the hotel restaurant, YŌSHOKU-YA GINZA LAMP-TEI, offers a traditional yet casual style of Japanese and Western fusion cuisine known as yoshoku. While yoshoku means “western cuisine,” it has distinctly Japanese flavors that come through in dishes like omurice (omelet over flavored white rice) and Japanese Hamburg steak (a juicy meat patty with a savory sauce). These are served at dinner, but are also available at the breakfast buffet.

Another relaxing way for guests to experience Ginza culture within the hotel is at the stylish and tattoo-friendly communal bath area. While each hotel room has its own bath, guests who want to dip their toes into Japanese bath culture can visit for free.

Hospitality and a Taste of Ginza Nightlife

Another central theme of the hotel is the idea of creating a connection between guests and the local culture and people.

Part of the theme comes through in the seemingly casual hotel design that both puts guests at ease and seamlessly integrates elements of Ginza culture. But this connection is also highlighted by the restaurant, where local residents and businesspeople are just as welcome as hotel guests, as well as in the hotel’s “snack” bar, known as KOBIKICHŌ-CLUB.

Snack bars are usually smaller drinking establishments run by a friendly female manager known as “mama-san,” where the idea is to chat with her and the other guests. But with so many snack bars having regular customers and tight-knit communities, they are a side of Tokyo nightlife tourists often don’t get to experience. KOBIKICHŌ-CLUB is a place for guests to come and go freely, whether that’s for drinks and snacks at the main bar with fellow travelers, a night of karaoke, or a secluded drink in the private reservation area.

Speaking on the hotel’s approachable atmosphere, Mr.Yoshikazu Kobayashi, General Manager of The Royal Park Hotel Ginza 6-chome said, “We want to create a friendly and welcoming atmosphere that provides a sense of comfort without being pretentious. Your travel experience is our highest priority, so we hope that we can provide everything you need for you to relax and be yourself while staying with us.”

– Ends –

How to Reach The Royal Park Hotel Ginza 6-chome

Located in Tokyo’s Ginza district, the hotel is a three-minute walk from Higashi-Ginza Station, Exit 3/4/A1 (via the Tokyo Metro / Toei Asakusa Line/ lifts are available at Exit 3 and A1). Alternatively, it is a six-minute walk from Ginza Station, Exit A3 (via Tokyo Metro lines / lift is available at A7).

The hotel is easily accessible from Haneda and Narita international airports by train.

Link to images
Corner Deluxe Twin (https://bluemoonmarketing.jp/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Corner-deluxe-twin-scaled.jpghttps://bluemoonmarketing.jp/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/iconicsuite-scaled.jpg)
Entrance (https://bluemoonmarketing.jp/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/entrance.jpg)
Entrance Exterior (https://bluemoonmarketing.jp/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/entrance-exterior.jpg)
Lobby (https://bluemoonmarketing.jp/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/front-desk.jpg)
Exterior (https://bluemoonmarketing.jp/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Exterior.jpg)
Standard Double (https://bluemoonmarketing.jp/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Standard-double-scaled.jpg)
Kobikicho club (https://bluemoonmarketing.jp/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Kobikicho-club.jpg)

About Mitsubishi Estate Hotels & Resorts Co., Ltd. 

Mitsubishi Estate Hotels & Resorts Co., Ltd. (head office in Tokyo) is the hotel management division of Japanese real estate company Mitsubishi Estate Group. They currently operate a number of quality hotels under several different brands. The Royal Park Hotel Ginza 6-chome is a part of the brand line named “THE”, a series of premium accommodations that aim to be the number one hotel in their respective towns by offering community-forward hotels that pursue comfort and functionality.

More information about Mitsubishi Estate Hotels & Resorts Co., Ltd. is available at

https://www.royalparkhotels.co.jp/en/ (website).

News Release (PDF): https://bluemoonmarketing.jp/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/20240529_RPHS_Ginza-6-chome_Press-Release_FNL.pdf 

Fact Book: https://bluemoonmarketing.jp/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/RPHS_FactBook_202405.pdf

Source: Mitsubishi Estate Hotels & Resorts Co., Ltd.

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Chinese travelers are opting for lower-cost domestic destinations over foreign tourist spots

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Chinese travelers are opting for lower-cost domestic destinations over foreign tourist spots

A night in China’s Guizhou province at the Cliff Hotel, pictured here, starts around $83, according to Trip.com, which says the hotel was built in 2023 with 34 rooms.

Nurphoto | Nurphoto | Getty Images

BEIJING — Chinese travelers are increasingly opting for cheaper domestic destinations over foreign tourist spots.

Only 14% of high-income households that traveled internationally last year plan to go abroad again in 2024, according to a survey released this month by consulting firm Oliver Wyman. The segment covers families in mainland China earning at least 30,000 yuan a month ($4,140, or about $50,000 a year).

The top reason for preferring their home country was “abundant domestic travel options,” the survey found, followed by “too costly” international travel.

The average cost per person for traveling within mainland China is less than 1,000 yuan, versus several thousand yuan for a trip to Hong Kong or Japan, Oliver Wyman said.

Local tourism has been a bright spot in China’s recovery from Covid-19 controls that ended in late 2022. Travel booking site Trip.com said that in 2023, bookings for rural destinations in China grew by 2.6 times versus pre-pandemic levels.

YouTube's Safier brothers on social media stardom and spreading positivity online

During a public holiday this year from May 1 to May 5, domestic tourism trips and revenue surged versus pre-pandemic levels in 2019, official data showed. International trips were slightly below 2019 levels, according to a CNBC analysis of official figures.

Within mainland China, smaller cities such as Yangzhou, Luoyang, Qinhuangdao, Guilin and Zibo saw the fastest growth in tourism bookings during the May holiday, Oliver Wyman said.

“This year, domestic tourism will surpass pre-pandemic levels,” said Ashley Dudarenok, founder of China digital consultancy ChoZan.

She expects recovery in Chinese traveling internationally to take longer, partly as “the feeling that the rest of the world is mad and unsafe is even higher than in 2023.”

In contrast, a record number of people in the U.S. in the last two years have applied for passports to travel abroad. A Skyscanner report said 85% of U.S. travelers plan to take at least as many international trips this year as in 2023, if not more.

U.S. and Chinese officials held a summit in Xi’an city last week to promote tourism between the two countries.

The moment you go viral you will have thousands of tourists at your doorsteps.

Ashley Dudarenok

ChoZan, founder

It’s unclear as to what extent tourist interest in less developed parts of China will persist, and whether it will translate into sustainable growth. But the near-term impact on some localities is significant.

The southern Guangxi autonomous region, home to Guilin’s famous limestone hills, issued a plan for boosting consumption this year by increasing publicity and tourist subsidies.

In the first quarter, officials said the region’s tourism revenue rose by nearly 24% year on year to 258.18 billion yuan. Local authorities said performing arts subsidies from the local governments helped generate 48.3 million yuan in ticket sales to 230,000 people, stimulating about 460 million yuan in economic activity.

About 2.5-hour-long flight to the east of Guangxi is the Nanjing city wall tourist site. It received nearly 1.3 million visitors in the first quarter, generating a revenue of 19.2 million yuan — double that of 2019, according to local media.

Competition for media eyeballs

Local governments outside China’s big cities have been stepping up their efforts to attract tourists, primarily through social media.

Guangxi officials earlier this month said its promotional videos on apps such as ByteDance’s Douyin and Xiaohongshu, known in English as “Little Red Book” or “Red,” had millions of viewers.

“They try to go viral, they try to involve their community, cultural heritage, put it all online,” Dudarenok said. “The moment you go viral you will have thousands of tourists at your doorsteps.”

People have flocked to the town of Zibo in the eastern province of Shandong after its barbecue skewer culture took off on social media last year. Similarly, three million visitors poured into Harbin city over the three-day New Year’s Eve holiday after its ice sculptures and unique northern customs gained traction on social media.

TV Shows featuring specific regions have also helped boost tourism.

Thanks to a television drama set in Altay, the remote part of Xinjiang province in the far west saw a nearly 38% surge in visitors from a year ago during the first three days of this year’s May holiday, according to iQiyi, which released the mini-series.

“The TV shows are a great draw,” Dudarenok said, adding that “food is always the most important reason for Chinese tourists to travel.”

China’s expansive network of high-speed trains and flights has made it easier for people to visit small towns, even for just two or three days.

Domestic air ticket bookings on Trip.com surged by 30% in the first quarter from a year ago, the company said last week. It noted that Chinese consumers are now placing greater emphasis on “emotional fulfillment,” prompting interest in personalized trips.

“Intensifying marketing efforts in many provinces effectively encouraged travelers to explore diverse destinations,” Trip.com management said on its earnings call, according to a FactSet transcript.

Businesses and local governments are collaborating in other ways to boost attention, if not revenue.

Officials from tourist spots and local governments have reached out to Miss Tourism Asia pageant for promotions, said Yang Hua, president of the organizing committee.

“Right now, China’s domestic tourism industry is relatively scattered,” Yang said in Mandarin, translated by CNBC. He hopes to create destination-specific events for cities that can attract visitors for the next several years.

Miss Tourism Asia filmed a promotional fashion video last year of contestants in the desert around Xinjiang’s Aral city, and held the pageant’s finals on Jan. 1, 2024, in the southern city of Dongguan in Guangzhou province.

Chinese consumers’ current preference for domestic travel means that a full recovery in international travel to 2019 levels likely won’t come until late 2025, half a year later than previously forecast, according to Oliver Wyman.

In the longer-term, Dudarenok expects that international tourist destinations will need to upgrade their experience to match the rise of stylish, modern hotels and other travel services in China.

“Chinese tourists [are] not so easy to please,” she said.

— CNBC’s Greg Iacurci and Yulia Jiang contributed to this report.

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Five minute air fryer chocolate chip cookies

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Five minute air fryer chocolate chip cookies

This decadent dessert will be ready in a flash and so delicious it will be eaten in half the time. Here to show us how is the air fryer queen herself, Steph De Sousa.

Steph De Sousa appeared on The Morning Show on Wednesday, sharing how to make chocolate chip cookies.
Steph De Sousa appeared on The Morning Show on Wednesday, sharing how to make chocolate chip cookies. Credit: Seven

The code MORNINGFOODWINESHOW can be used to purchase tickets at any of the Melbourne, Sydney and Perth shows and is applied at checkout to receive the two for one tickets deal.

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Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cups plain flour
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup white sugar
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 2 eggs
  • 200g melted butter
  • A splash of vanilla
  • 250g chocolate chips

Method

  1. Mix all ingredients into a sweet harmony.
  2. Roll dough in cling wrap, shaping it into a log.
  3. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.
  4. Cut into cookie-width slices.
  5. Unwrap your treats and place them on a tray.
  6. Bake at 160C for 15 minutes or until light brown or…
  7. In an air fryer? 160C for 7 minutes will do the trick.

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Amazon shoppers love this ‘flattering and slimming’ flowy top — and it’s down to $23

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Amazon shoppers love this ‘flattering and slimming’ flowy top — and it’s down to $23

June will be here in just a couple of days, and we’re practically salivating at the thought of the sun on our faces. While it’s not quite officially summer, we’re dropping our early-spring layers as the temperatures creep higher. But if this weather is making you feel a bit shy about showing off some skin, we’ve found a shirt that can do some strategic camouflaging: the Miholl V-Neck Top. Get it for as little as $23 with the on-page coupon.

Want to do some more bargain binging? Check out Amazon’s other Memorial Day deals (still going strong!) and the best extended Memorial Day sales across the web.

Amazon

Cute and timeless, this top features lace detailing and a flattering V-neckline.

Save $4 with coupon

$23 at Amazon

The price of warm-weather fashion tends to go up with the temperatures. Usually, you can only grab fun and flirty tops at a discount in the late fall or early winter, but this one is doubly discounted. It’s currently 15% off, but if you clip the on-page coupon, you’ll get an extra 15% off.

The ideal top for springtime fun, it’s versatile enough that you can wear it running errands or to the office. Made with polyester and spandex, it’s stretchy and loose-fitting for maximum comfort, but it’s the sleeves that shoppers love most — they add just enough interest to elevate this above your everyday T-shirt.

Available in sizes up to XXL, the romantic V-neck comes in three different styles — tapered lace, scalloped eyelet or a classic straight hem. All three can make you feel good about your arms and then some. The best part, though? The styling options are endless. You can tuck this shirt into a pair of jeans or shorts for a sunny-day look or pair it with trousers for the office. For the evening, wear it with a flowy skirt for a dinner date. Or just pop it on with a pair of sweats for hanging around the house.

Miholl V-neck shirt in white, yellow and green on a purple background

Amp up your warm-weather wardrobe with this flirty tee, available in a ton of colors. (Amazon)

Over 5,000 shoppers are wild about how flattering this top is.

A fave feature? The lacy arms are very becoming, according to shoppers.

“The lacy sleeves are comfortable,” wrote one rave reviewer. “For someone with bigger arms, these sleeves are awesome. Love the comfy textured shirt’s look and feel too. It has a good length so no weird issues showing the belly when moving around. Very happy with this purchase!”

Another happy customer said it goes beyond just covering up a tummy. “The blouse is so flattering and slimming in the midsection,” shared the five-star fan. “I feel like it made me look at least 20 pounds slimmer.”

“This is my second shirt,” another shopper shared. “I like the style — it’s loose enough to hide stomach bulges but not oversized or sloppy.”

Some shoppers have a couple of caveats.

“Very sophisticated top, I don’t feel that the pictures do it justice,” wrote another five-star reviewer. “Absolutely love the lace sleeves, they are so unique and pretty. Sleeves like this typically ride up into the armpits, these do not.” However, the same shopper noted that the top runs a bit larger than expected and that the colors don’t match the photos.

“So cute, fits right,” another pleased customer shared. “No cling and not too long. [The] only drawback is the shoulders are see-through. I ordered it in black with flowered sleeves, and with a black bra it looks great.”

Amazon

Don this flattering tee for a day at the beach or the office — it’s even nice enough for a classy dinner.

Save $4 with coupon

$23 at Amazon

If you have Amazon Prime, you’ll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here. (And by the way, those without Prime still get free shipping on orders of $25 or more.)

The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.

  • NatureWell Clinical Retinol Advanced Moisture Cream

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  • Wirarpa High-Waisted Underwear, 4-Pack

    $20$31

    Save $11

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Rege Nephro CO., Ltd. Announces Patient Enrollment for Phase II Clinical Trial of Tamibarotene for ADPKD

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Rege Nephro CO., Ltd. Announces Patient Enrollment for Phase II Clinical Trial of Tamibarotene for ADPKD

KYOTO, Japan, May 28, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Rege Nephro CO., Ltd. (https://www.regenephro.co.jp/en) has announced that patient enrollment began in April for the second stage of its Phase II clinical trial of tamibarotene as a developmental product for the treatment of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) under the code RN-014. After reviewing all available safety data from the first stage, which started in December of last year, the decision was made to advance to the second stage. The company aims to complete patient enrollment by the end of 2024.

Public Clinical Trial Information

Tolvaptan is the only approved drug for the treatment of ADPKD. Since the launch of tolvaptan, pharmaceutical companies worldwide have been developing numerous clinical trials of new drugs to treat ADPKD, but most of these drugs have already been discontinued due to inefficacy, highlighting the strong need for new treatment options. RN-014 is currently at the most advanced stage of development among the drugs in development for patients with ADPKD.

About ADPKD

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is the most common hereditary cystic kidney disease. It is characterized by the gradual development and enlargement of multiple cysts in both kidneys, leading to progressive renal dysfunction. Cysts can also occur in the liver and pancreas, and vascular abnormalities throughout the body are common, including high blood pressure, cerebral aneurysms, and heart valve abnormalities. Currently, tolvaptan, which inhibits cyst growth, is the only approved treatment for ADPKD, but there is no curative treatment available.

About RN-014

Tamibarotene, under development for ADPKD, is a retinoic acid receptor (RAR) agonist expected to potently inhibit cyst formation and improve renal function. The clinical trial dose identified in multiple mouse model experiments is 4mg/day, and its safety has been confirmed in past studies. With advice from the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA), the Phase II clinical trial began in December 2023. This trial includes a pharmacokinetic (PK) phase and a randomization phase. Various safety measures have been established, including phased patient enrollment, periodic independent safety monitoring, strict criteria for dose reduction and discontinuation of the investigational drug, and criteria for discontinuation of the entire trial.

About Rege Nephro CO., Ltd.

Rege Nephro CO., Ltd. is a clinical-stage biotech company utilizing induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-based technology from the Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University. It is developing therapeutics and cell therapy for kidney, liver, and pancreas diseases.

Media Inquiries:

Katsuhisa Yamaguchi, CFO
Rege Nephro CO., Ltd.
TEL: 075-744-6858
E-mail: info@regenephro.co.jp 

Source: Rege Nephro CO., Ltd.

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Acer Debuts Premium Chromebook Plus Laptops for Productivity and Gaming with Google AI built-in

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Acer Debuts Premium Chromebook Plus Laptops for Productivity and Gaming with Google AI built-in

Greater connection, creation, and collaboration on new convertible Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 and cloud-gaming-optimized Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE thanks to new Generative AI features in ChromeOS

Editor’s Summary:

  • The embodiment of performance and portability, the Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 is powered by Intel® Core™ Ultra processors, and features a thin-and-light 2-in-1 convertible design with a durable aluminum chassis for on-the-go work, school and play.
  • The Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE delivers an immersive cloud gaming experience with NVIDIA GeForce NOW included, Intel Core processors, and a gaming-centric design with a 120 Hz WQXGA display, RGB keyboard and Wi-Fi 6E for fast, reliable connection.
  • Both new Acer Chromebook Plus laptops encourage and enable users to connect, create and collaborate more than ever before with generative AI features from Google and Adobe.

TAIPEI, May 28, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Acer today debuted two new premium Chromebook Plus laptops – the Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 and Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE – that combine versatile designs with a 2x faster Intel Core processor and up to double the memory and storage[1], giving people the power to do even more all at once.

As Chromebook Plus devices, the two new models support enhanced generative AI features for connectivity, creativity, and collaboration, such as a “help me write” feature available with just a right click, Google Photos’ Magic Editor, Gemini, and more. The Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 is a slim convertible optimized for on-the-go productivity and connectivity with a 360-degree hinge that allows it to be used in myriad ways and places, and the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE is a next-generation cloud-gaming Chromebook with the latest gaming-centric hardware to stream and play AAA games with NVIDIA® GeForce® NOW, Xbox Cloud Gaming, Boosteroid, Amazon Luna and more.

“Our two new Acer Chromebook Plus laptops masterfully take advantage of new Google AI capabilities that are now part of ChromeOS to deliver even more cutting-edge experiences to Chromebook users,” said James Lin, General Manager, Notebooks, Acer Inc. “The fact that these two new Acer Chromebook Plus laptops could not be more different yet both deliver an elevated Chromebook Plus experience points directly to the power and flexibility of the ChromeOS ecosystem and the importance of user-centric Chromebook Plus laptop design.”

Portable and Convertible Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 Boasts On-the-Go Performance

Compact, durable, and performance-minded, the new convertible Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 (CP714-1H) is the ideal on-the-go Chromebook delivering a sought-after combination of responsive mobile performance and efficient multitasking for collaboration at work, school, or for passion projects. Powered by up to Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 processors[2], the Acer Chromebook is ready to help users enjoy AI-powered Google and Adobe apps. Google AI helps users write with ease and design unique backgrounds, while the Adobe Photoshop and LumaFusion apps make editing photos and videos a breeze. Gemini in Google Docs, Sheets, Slides and Gmail[3] helps to generate and summarize notes and personalize emails for greater productivity and organization. Plus, all-day productivity with the new Chromebook will be the standard; with 2x the speed, memory and storage[1], its durable aluminum chassis design is MIL-STD 810 certified and the fast-charging battery provides long battery life of up to 10[2,4] hours. 

The Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714’s 2-in-1 convertible design features 360-degree hinges that enable it to be used in various scenarios, including as a traditional laptop or a tablet for note-taking and sketching with an optional dockable USI active stylus[2]. The Chromebook’s 14-inch touchscreen display vibrantly showcases images in WUXGA (1920×1200) clarity and vivid 100% sRGB color range. This means AI-powered features such as creating generative wallpapers and Google Photos Magic Editor help users re-imagine their photos and will be even more immersive and enjoyable on the Chromebook’s thin-bezel display. Plus, its Antimicrobial Corning® Gorilla® Glass protects it from scratches while resisting stains and odor-causing bacteria[5].

People will always look and sound great in online classes, conference calls for work, or family meet-ups with the Chromebook’s 1440p QHD webcam and AI-powered audio and video enhancements for better clarity, lighting, and sound. The webcam features temporal noise reduction technology to maintain high-quality visuals even in low-light conditions, as well as a physical shutter to protect privacy, while the optional fingerprint reader[2] ensures secure device access for users. Dual microphones pair with dual upward-facing speakers and DTS® Audio to deliver high-quality, distortion-free sound to further enhance the conferencing experience. The Chromebook reliably connects via Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth™ 5.1, as well as to additional devices via a range of ports including HDMI 2.0 and two USB Type-C ports both with Thunderbolt™ 4 ports, and a USB Type-A port.

Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE Delivers Immersive Cloud Gaming with NVIDIA GeForce NOW

The new Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE (CBG516-2H) brings a whole new way to game with NVIDIA GeForce NOW cloud gaming service plus the latest technology with a first-rate gaming-centric design. Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE users can indulge in the latest AAA games with millions of other players without any downloads via NVIDIA GeForce NOW, at up to 1600p resolution and 120 fps with an Ultimate membership, streaming from next-gen GeForce RTX™ 4080 servers in the cloud. The device’s performance-minded 13th Gen Intel® Core™ i7 processors[2] and high-resolution display ensure fast streaming at 120 Hz resulting in cutting-edge graphics and impressively smooth visuals.

The gaming experience on the Chromebook’s high-resolution WQXGA (2560×1600) IPS display is stunning due to the fast 120 Hz refresh rate that results in realistic and smooth high frame-per-second gaming. Plus, the display’s 100% sRGB color gamut delivers vibrant and accurate images. High-quality DTS audio complements the lifelike visuals with two upward-firing speakers and two downward-firing speakers that utilize force-canceling woofers to project sound in opposite directions and eliminate unwanted vibrations.

The Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE features an RJ-45 2.5G Gigabit Ethernet LAN port to ensure a fast and reliable connection for uninterrupted cloud gaming. Additionally, when gamers take their durable Chromebook with them for cloud gaming on-the-go, they can rely on the device’s fast and secure Wi-Fi 6E. The Chromebook Plus 516 GE features a gaming keyboard with vibrantly colored 4-zone preset backlight color modes and anti-ghosting technology that registers fast and accurate keyboard inputs and key combinations.

Cloud gamers will also appreciate the Chromebook Plus 516 GE’s premium combination of features that boost productivity for work and school by utilizing new generative AI creation and collaboration features in ChromeOS and Adobe apps. Players can also get the most out of their games with the new Game dashboard that lets them customize their gaming experience and share their gameplay progress with fellow gamers. The Chromebook’s 1080p webcam features integrated AI-powered video call tools that enhance clarity, lighting, and sound on any video call app, letting gamers look and sound their best when streaming. In addition, the Chromebook Plus 516 GE features up to 2 TB PCIe NVMe SSD storage, up to 16 GB of fast LPDDR4X memory and support for up to 10 hours[2,4] of battery life.  

Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 Available for Enterprise, Education Customers

The new Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 is also available with management capabilities for business and education through the Chrome Enterprise Upgrade and Chrome Education Upgrade. The Acer Chromebook Plus Enterprise Spin 714 (CPE794-1N) enables IT departments to utilize streamlined device enrollment, infrastructure integration, advanced security settings, and built-in virus protection to ensure data and applications are safeguarded. With Chrome Education Upgrade, schools get greater ability to manage their ChromeOS environment to best meet the individual needs of their school, and every student and teacher. With management capabilities, IT admin are supported with 24/7 IT remote help and ChromeOS troubleshooting assistance.

Pricing and Availability

The Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 (CP714-1H) will be available in North America in May, starting at USD 749.99, and in EMEA in May, starting at EUR 979.

The Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE will be available in North America in May, starting at USD 699.99.

Exact specifications, prices, and availability will vary by region. To learn more about availability, product specifications and prices in specific markets, please contact your nearest Acer office via www.acer.com.

Specifications

Name

Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714

Model

CP714-1H

Operating System

ChromeOS

Screen

14.0″ Display with IPS Technology, WUXGA (1920 x 1200), Acer CineCrystal™ LED-
backlit TFT LCD, with Antimicrobial Corning® Gorilla® Glass Multi-Touch, 16:10
Aspect Ratio, 340 nit brightness, 100% sRGB, optional USI Stylus support

Processors

Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 processor 165U (Intel® AI Boost capable, and Intel® vPro™
 Enterprise eligibility) 

Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 processor 155U (Intel® AI Boost capable)

Intel® Core™ Ultra 5 processor 125U (Intel® AI Boost capable)

Intel® Core™ Ultra 5 processor 115U (Intel® AI Boost capable)

Graphics

Intel® Graphics

Memory

Up to 16 GB dual-channel LPDDR5X SDRAM

Storage

Up to 512GB SSD, PCIe Gen 4, 16 Gb/s up to 4 lanes, NVMe

Camera

QHD camera (2560 x 1440) with 1440p QHD video at 30 FPS; with Temporal Noise
Reduction, Blue Glass Lens and Privacy Shutter; Dual-mic support

Ports

Two USB Type-C (supporting Thunderbolt 4, USB charging and Power Delivery up to
65W), one USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 1 HDMI 2.0, 3.5mm headphone/speaker jack

Battery, Battery life

53 Wh 3-cell Li-ion battery, fast charging; provides battery life up to 10 hours

Wireless and Networking

Wi-Fi 6E AX211 Wireless LAN and Bluetooth 5.1 or above

Features

OceanGlass™ touchpad

Dimensions

313.6 (W) x 224.5 (D) x 18.05 (H) mm [12.35 (W) x 8.84 (D) x 0.71 (H) inches]

System Compliance

Energy Star, EPEAT Gold

Name

Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE

Model

CBG516-2H

Operating System

ChromeOS

Screen

16.0″ display with IPS technology, WQXGA (2560 x 1600) supporting 120 Hz, Acer
ComfyView™ LED-backlit TFT LCD, 16:10 Aspect Ratio, 350 nit brightness, 100% sRGB

Processors

Intel® Core™ 7 processor 150U

Intel® Core™ 5 processor 120U

Graphics

Intel® Graphics

Memory

Up to 16 GB dual-channel LPDDR4X SDRAM; memory frequency up to 4266 MT/s

Storage

Up to 2 TB SSD, PCIe Gen 4, 16 Gb/s NVMe

Camera

Full HD camera (1920 x 1080) with 1080p video at 60 FPS; with Temporal Noise
Reduction, and Blue Glass Lens

Ports

Two USB Type-C (supporting DisplayPort, and USB charging), one USB Type-A, HDMI
2.1, Ethernet RJ-45 port, 3.5mm headphone/speaker jack

Battery, Battery life

65 Wh 4-cell Li-ion battery, fast charging; provides battery life up to 10 hours

Wireless and Networking

2.5G Ethernet, Wake-on-LAN ready; Wi-Fi 6E AX211 Wireless LAN, supports
Bluetooth 5.2 or above

Features

OceanGlass™ touchpad,

Dimensions

356.58 (W) x 249.67 (D) x 21.3 (H) mm (14.04 x 9.83 x 0.84 inches)

System Compliance

Energy Star, EPEAT

[1] When compared to top-selling Chromebooks from July 2022 to Dec 2022.

[2] Specifications may vary depending on model and/or region. All models subject to availability

[3] Subscription required.

[4] Battery life may vary based on device and upon usage and other conditions. 

[5] All antimicrobial solutions including Antimicrobial Corning ® Gorilla ® Glass and silver ion antimicrobial

technology do not claim to protect users or provide any direct or implied health benefit.

About Acer

Founded in 1976, Acer is one of the world’s top ICT companies with a presence in more than 160 countries. As Acer evolves with the industry and changing lifestyles, it is focused on enabling a world where hardware, software and services will fuse with one another, creating ecosystems and opening up new possibilities for consumers and businesses alike. Acer’s 7,700 employees are dedicated to the research, design, marketing, sale, and support of products and solutions that break barriers between people and technology. Please visit www.acer.com for more information.

© 2024 Acer Inc. All rights reserved. Acer and the Acer logo are registered trademarks of Acer Inc. Other trademarks, registered trademarks, and/or service marks, indicated or otherwise, are the property of their respective owners. All offers subject to change without notice or obligation and may not be available through all sales channels. Prices listed are manufacturer suggested retail prices and may vary by location. Applicable sales tax extra.

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Slovenian Tourist Board Unveils Innovative Projects to Enhance Tourism and Sports Visibility: Audio Stories, AI-Powered Virtual Assistant, and “Slovenia – Sports Destination” Website

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Slovenian Tourist Board Unveils Innovative Projects to Enhance Tourism and Sports Visibility: Audio Stories, AI-Powered Virtual Assistant, and “Slovenia – Sports Destination” Website

LJUBLJANA, Slovenia, May 28, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Slovenia is a land of countless natural beauties, cultural treasures, top health and wellness resorts and superb gastronomy, which the Slovenian Tourist Board aims to showcase to visitors in an innovative and attractive way. To achieve this, the Board continually analyzes current marketing trends and develops projects designed to excite tourists, spark their curiosity and inspire them to explore further.

Slovenian Tourist Board
Slovenian Tourist Board

By staying at the forefront of marketing strategies, the Slovenian Tourist Board ensures that the country’s unique attractions are presented in the most engaging and appealing manner possible. The most recent projects to boost Slovenia’s visibility include three new projects: Sounds Like Slovenia, a series of audio stories, an AI-powered virtual assistant named Alma on slovenia.info and the “Slovenia – Sports Destination” website.

More

Meet Alma, an AI-powered virtual assistant

Alma, named after the adventurous traveller and writer Alma M. Karlin, operates using advanced AI technology, filtering content to suit user interests. She sources reliable information from the slovenia.info database and over 50 verified websites of Slovenian tourist destinations and providers. As one of the first AI assistants in Slovenian tourism, and among the few AI assistants integrated in national tourism organizations’ websites in Europe, Alma positions slovenia.info as a reliable source of information and inspiration for international visitors.

More

Slovenia – Sports Destination Website

The Slovenia–Sports Destination website serves as a comprehensive resource for organizing sports activities and events, conferences, rehabilitation and inspiration, available in both Slovenian and English. Sports agencies, clubs, and event organizers can use the portal to connect directly with relevant partners in Slovenia. The website also provides direct contacts for specialized sports agencies and federations, assisting with the organization of preparatory matches and other logistical needs. Information on sports accommodations is also available.

More

Sounds Like Slovenia 

Thematic playlists on Spotify and sound stories on slovenia.info provide an immersive audio experience of Slovenia’s landscapes and cultural offerings. Themes are categorized into five categories: the Sounds of Nature, Thrilling Outdoor Adventures, Cities and Culture, Health and Well-Being, and Gastronomy. Crafted for the global digital campaign, the audio list aims to captivate travelers worldwide.

More

Together, these projects demonstrate Slovenia’s dedication to innovation and sustainability in tourism, offering visitors unforgettable experiences in this vibrant European destination with a green heart.

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Safaris aren’t the only tourist attraction in Africa. From cruises to wine tasting, here’s what else you can do

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Safaris aren’t the only tourist attraction in Africa. From cruises to wine tasting, here’s what else you can do

Africa is blessed with some of the rarest and most beautiful animals in the world — a fact that entices tourists to book safaris year-round.

But safaris only scratch the surface of what the continent has to offer.  

From wine tours to vibrant coastal cities, other experiences await those who are willing to go beyond game drives and delve deeper into the core of the continent.

Mountains, dunes and rivers

For those who love hiking, Africa is blessed with many peaks — from Morocco’s Mount Toubkal to the continent’s highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.

But there’s also Mount Nyangani in Zimbabwe, which has a skywalk atop the Mutarazi Falls, the country’s highest waterfall.

South Africa’s Table Mountain can be climbed in a matter of hours, but adrenaline junkies may prefer to bungie jump from Johannesburg’s Soweto Towers, or the Bloukrans Bridge along the country’s famous “Garden Route.”

Bungy jumping at Soweto Towers, a decommissioned power station in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Thomas Janisch | Moment Mobile | Getty Images

Africa is ideal for travelers who crave adventure, said Zina Bencheikh, managing director for Europe, the Middle East and Africa at Intrepid Travel.

She recommends Madagascar’s Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park, which has two geological zones called the “Small Tsingy” and “Big Tsingy,” which in the local language of Malagasy, refers to a place “where one cannot walk barefoot.”

“Big Tsingy Trek is not your usual hike!” she said, describing it as a “labyrinth of limestone formations that resemble a forest made of rock.”

The limestone formations of Madagascar’s Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park.

Carlo Morucchio | Reda&co | Universal Images Group | Getty Images

In Namibia, travelers can climb the iconic Dune 45 to admire the sand dunes of the Sossusvlei, explore the eerie white clay pan of Deadvlei, or hike through the picturesque Sesriem Canyon.

At Victoria Falls, along the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe, travelers can whitewater raft, bungee jump or swim at the Devil’s Pool, which is on Zambia’s side of the falls. Similar adventures can be found in Jinja, Uganda, where the River Nile begins.

Hot air balloons are a popular and adventurous way to explore too, with a bird’s eye view of the berber villages of Morocco to Kenya’s Masai Mara.

Explore the beach

African beach towns combine beauty and culture, in places like Seychelles, Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Mozambique, Mauritius, Zanzibar, Ghana, Namibia and Egypt.

Mombasa, a coastal city in Kenya, is one example.  

King Charles III and Queen Camilla visit Mombasa’s Fort Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on Nov. 03, 2023

Samir Hussein | Wireimage | Getty Images

“Here, you’ll experience African, Indian and Arab cultures in one place. Fort Jesus is one of Mombasa’s notable sites and was built by the Portuguese in 1593. In less than 200 years, the fort changed hands nine times,” said Luciemarie Swanepoel, owner of African Sky of Diamonds Tours & Safaris.

She recommends visiting Zanzibar to wander the Stone Town’s labyrinthine alleys along with Kenya’s Swahili Coast, the historical Gede ruins, and the UNESCO-named Mijikenda Kaya Forests.

The rooftops of Zanzibar’s Stone Town. 

Jeremy Villasis | Moment | Getty Images

“Madagascar … is another island gem, with beaches like Nosy Be and Ile Sainte Marie boasting palm-fringed coasts and vibrant coastal villages,” said Swanepoel.

Durban and Cape Town are two of the best beach destinations in South Africa, she said, adding that travelers can kitesurf, snorkel, kayak or search for dugongs and whales there.

Go on a cruise

From budget-friendly houseboats to luxurious all-inclusive boutique lake cruises, Africa has a range of unique boating experiences.

Cruises along the Nile, Zambezi and Chobe rivers, as well as a cruise along Rwanda’s Lake Kivu, come highly recommended, as water journeys can offer a spectacular viewing platform for wildlife.

A boat on Botswana’s Chobe river at sunset.

Peter Unger | Stone | Getty Images

“During a river cruise, you may spot a herd of elephants wading through shimmering water, witness great buffalo gathering along the water’s edge, and even observe crocodiles stealthily slicing through pools. Hundreds of hippos also wallow in the river with just their nostrils poking out,” says Kate Powell, general manager of the houseboat company Zambezi Queen Collection.

Travelers can also cruise between villages, fish, and bask in the tranquil waters. 

“One can explore the Manambolo River on a pirogue, or wooden dugout canoe, under the shadow of towering rock cliffs [or] stop to explore a cave and the eerie tombs of the Vazimba, said to be the earliest inhabitants of Madagascar,” said Intrepid’s Bencheikh.

In addition to being a popular stop for world cruises, East and South Africa have their own ocean cruise routes which follow the coastlines and visit offshore islands. Silversea, Norwegian Cruise Line and MSC have cruises departing from Africa.

Maritime journeys in Africa allow visitors to experience the continent’s wildlife, cultures and landscapes from a unique vantage point, said Kevin Bubolz, Norwegian’s vice president for Continental Europe, Middle East and Africa.  

“In Port Elizabeth, the Penguin Island Cruise excursion is a standout experience. You’ll journey to the world’s largest colony of African penguins in their natural habitat,” he said. “If you’re lucky, you might also catch a glimpse of playful humpback and bottle-nose dolphins.”

Wine tours

Countries like Morocco, Namibia and Ethiopia have established wine regions. But South Africa is the continent’s crown jewel.

“South Africa is renowned for its world-class wine regions, with the Western Cape being the heart of the industry,” said Wrenelle Stander, CEO of Wesgro, Cape Town’s tourism and trade agency.

“The areas around Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl comprise the famous Cape Winelands, where visitors can tour historic estates, taste award-winning wines, and learn about the winemaking process.”

The wine country of Franschhoek, outside of Cape Town, South Africa. 

Michele Westmorland | Corbis Documentary | Getty Images

Not only is Stellenbosch one of the best places for wine tours, it’s also a culinary hot spot, known for its innovative food scene. Elmarie Rabe, the marketing manager at Visit Stellenbosch, advises travelers to select wineries that are committed to sustainable and organic practices.

“Also consider the traveling distance between farms, as Stellenbosch stretches over 60 square kilometers,” she said.

The best time to visit is during the harvest season from late January to March, when the vineyards are in full swing. But every season has its own charm, she added.

“Spring offers lush landscapes and ideal weather, while winter is perfect for enjoying bold red wines by the fireplace. Summer provides sunny days perfect for outdoor wine tasting,” Rabe said.

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