Beginning January 8, 2025, American and Canadian travelers to the United Kingdom will be required to apply - in advance of your trip - for the UK’s new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). The digital application process opens November 27, 2024 for anyone planning to arrive in Britain from January 8, 2025 and onwards.
The British government has been introducing the new digital entry permits in a phased approach to a goal of fully digitizing entry into its borders by 2025. Americans and Canadians are now among the groups of foreign residents required to submit and able to apply for an ETA.
ETA’s are mandatory for entry into the UK. That includes children and babies. The program is for regular travelers going to the UK for tourism, business, visiting family and friends, boarding a cruise departing from the UK or transiting through the UK en route to another country.
ETA’s only applies to visitors who do not otherwise need a specialized UK visa (for example, for work, marriage, etc.)
You’ll still have to go through Immigration on arrival at a UK gateway and be cleared by officers at the border entry. If you don’t apply for your ETA before your departure, you could be fined.
How Much Does it Cost?
How Long Does Your ETA Last?
What You’ll Need to Apply:
You will need to upload photos of your:
You do not need to enter your travel details.
How to Apply:
According to the British government, the fastest way to apply is using the UK ETA app.
Need help with the app?
Can’t use the app?
How Long it Takes to Get an ETA:
What If I Need to Travel Soon?
What if I’m Traveling in a Group?
Here’s a link to the official page on the British government website.
By: Lynn Elmhirst, travel journalist and expert.
Image: ©VisitBritain/Sam Barker
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by Lynn Elmhirst on 11/27/2024
That was fast. Just a month after a wave of media stories about arriving travelers being dinged with hundreds of dollars in duties for their devices, Mexican authorities say they have eliminated the controversial – and dated - rules.
As you likely read here in September 2024, Mexican customs regulations stipulated that anyone arriving in the country was allowed one ‘portable computing device.’ Customs officers – especially at the Cancun airport, Mexico’s busiest - were apparently interpreting that to mean one laptop OR one tablet/ iPad. Some unsuspecting visitors bringing both were finding themselves being charged nearly USD $200 in import duties for the second device. Anyone who couldn’t or wouldn’t pay risked having the second item confiscated.
That had travelers crying foul – and the story of one travel advisor, a frequent visitor to Mexico on business, caught the attention of the press and went viral. Suddenly, similar stories from other travelers were coming out of the woodwork.
It wasn’t a good color for a country whose economy relies heavily on tourism.
The import/ customs regulations themselves were decades old, dating from an era when things like the number of CDs you could bring into Mexico were also restricted. And it appears that those old laws were being enforced with new vigor – even as modern life means most of us to carry around more devices than ever! You likely aren’t surprised to hear that one report claims the average American now travels with four gadgets!
Well, not everyone in Mexico was siding with the customs agents. Local tourism representatives quickly spoke out. And it looks like cooler heads have prevailed.
Quintana Roo Governor Mara Lezama posted a video posted on Facebook, announcing an immediate end to fining visitors for multiple devices.
"We managed to eliminate the charge for bringing more than one computer or electronic tablet into your personal luggage, within the #Cancun International Airport, with the support of Mexican Customs," she declared.
She attributed the turnabout directly to visitors speaking out and to the negative media reports, saying the change was “as a result of various uncomfortable and inconvenient situations detected at customs in the Cancun International Airport which have affected our destination's image.”
She said officials “visited the area and reviewed the criteria used to allow tourists through customs and thanks to the support and consideration of the National Customs Agency of Mexico, we reviewed the procedure to reactivate the tourists flow through customs and eliminate this criteria."
The result? Good news for visitors to Mexico:
“The decision was reached to eliminate the criteria in place. This was an old franchise regulation that no longer aligns with these times of technology, home office, in addition to the key tourism sector who travel to our destination to attend conferences, conventions and professional meetings," she announced.
"We are thankful to the authorities for their sensibility and for listening with the goal to adapt to this new era, and beginning today, this charge has been eliminated.”
So travelers to Mexico can breathe easily again while packing the usual assortment of digital devices you’ll need to stay connected or on top of work, entertain your kids, or chill with that e-book you’ve been meaning to read when you can finally take that well-deserved break on a beach vacation.
By: Lynn Elmhirst, travel journalist.
Image: Getty
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by Lynn Elmhirst on 10/24/2024
On safari in Africa, it’s the ‘Big 5’ signature species. But on the other side of the world, in another extraordinary landscape, the can’t miss, iconic wildlife is summed up on the ‘Big 15’ list. Many are found nowhere else on earth other than in the Galapagos islands.
Their unparalleled biodiversity famously inspired Darwin’s theory of evolution. No wonder these remote Ecuadorian islands are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a protected marine preserve, and the ultimate travel aspiration for nature lovers.
Here’s the Galapagos "Big 15" checklist of species, renowned for their unique characteristics, evolutionary significance, and endemic nature.
Not only can you see these marvels of nature in their native environment, but without natural predators, much of Galapagos wildlife is fearless, allowing responsible visitors close encounters we normally don’t associate with seeing animals in the wild. They un-self-consciously go about their daily business in a way that allows visitors to observe their natural behaviors, much the same way Darwin did, allowing him was able to identify how some species uniquely adapted to their specific environments (for example, the different beak shapes of Darwin’s finches.)
Traveling to the Galapagos is more than just a vacation—it's an immersive journey into the heart of one of the world’s most unique ecosystems, from dramatic lava fields and black-sand beaches created by ancient volcanic activity to lush highlands, all surrounded by one of the world’s richest marine environments.
Whether you’re an animal lover, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for an unforgettable adventure, the Galapagos offers a profound and enriching experience.
Image: Getty
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by Lynn Elmhirst on 10/24/2024
Sun Princess has arrived in Ft. Lauderdale for her first winter season after the 4300-guest ship’s inaugural Mediterranean season. The latest “Love Boat” to join the Princess Cruises fleet has arrived in her new homeport, to begin sailing a series of seven-day Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises, roundtrip through early April 2025.
Guests are already raving about Sun Princess’ innovative design, culinary experiences, entertainment, advanced technology and more.
New for the inaugural Caribbean season, Sun Princess is launching the Sanctuary Collection – the ultimate in quiet luxury with exclusive access to serene retreats, premium amenities, lush accommodations and all-inclusive indulgences.
Sun Princess serves up 30 restaurant and bar venues with an unprecedented collection of celebrity collaborators and culinary experiences at sea. Specialty and high-end dining experiences on Sun Princess include:
The Princess Arena is the most technologically advanced theater at sea, offering showstopping and original productions, including performances in the round. At night, The Dome astonishes audiences with acrobatic Cirque Èloize performances, while the Piazza dazzles with a retractable stage and immersive Champagne Waterfall.
Offering endless balcony views, Sun Princess holds diverse accommodations to suit every preference with reimagined staterooms, suites, the new Sanctuary Collection, as well as new Cabana Mini-Suites with extra space for secluded outdoor relaxation.
Rooted in sustainability, Sun Princess is the first LNG (liquefied natural gas) vessel for the cruise line, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and features ingenious energy recovery systems for eco-conscious cruising.
Image courtesy of Princess Cruises.
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by Lynn Elmhirst on 10/24/2024
Silversea is taking a groundbreaking approach to ultra-luxury Antarctic expedition cruising – literally! The cruise line has broken ground on a hotel in Puerto Williams, Chile, to create a seamlessly deluxe experience for its guests on their voyages to the White Continent.
Silversea is the only cruise line that homeports from Puerto Williams during the Antarctic season. And the new, 150-room hotel will provide a seamless, ultra-luxury-all-the-way experience for Antarctic expedition cruise guests.
The cruise line already operates an innovative ‘Antarctic Bridge’ fly-cruise program, allowing guests to opt to skip crossing the Drake Passage. It’s the fastest and most direct route all the way to the bottom of the word. Silversea guests fly directly to Puerto Williams from Santiago, Chile’s capital. With the new, Silversea hotel, you’ll have the full Silversea hospitality experience during a land layover en route to Antarctica.
The new, 150-room hotel is scheduled for completion by the end of 2025. It’s being built in partnership with local Chileans; part of Silversea’s commitment to fostering relationships and forging long-term benefits for the community. Silversea says it plans to work with the local community to create economic growth and opportunities while preserving the unique cultural heritage and minimizing environmental impact in the area.
Located in the sub-Antarctic zone of the Patagonia region of Chile at the southern tip of South America, Puerto Williams is an ideal gateway to an Antarctic cruise.
Overlooking the Beagle Channel and surrounded by pristine forest, the hotel will feature views of the water and snow-capped Patagonian mountains. Amenities will include an expansive restaurant ideal for group gatherings, a bar and lounge, fitness center and gift shop showcasing handicrafts and art by local artisans.
Due to its innovative architectural design, the hotel will blend seamlessly into the surrounding environment drawing inspiration from local traditional art, architecture, and materials.
From the Silversea hotel in Port Williams, Silversea guests will board their ship and can immerse themselves in the natural wonders of Antarctica, where they can discover uninhabited islands, snow-covered mountains, magnificent icescapes and a vast array of diverse wildlife on the world’s least-visited continent.
Silversea has led explorations to the far-flung Polar regions for over 15 years. With the opening of this hotel, Silversea cements its place as a pioneer in ultra-luxury expedition cruising.
Among the world's most luxurious expedition ships, Silver Endeavour, Silver Wind and Silver Cloud offer a range of six to 20-day Antarctic voyages appealing to every traveler seeking to discover the region in uncompromised luxury.
For guests with limited time, the Antarctica Bridge fly-cruise program provides the option to skip the Drake Passage and fly in comfort straight to Antarctica to start their expedition.
Silversea expeditions are led by a team of specialists who are experts in their field. With a crew-to-guest ratio of nearly 1:1, guests enjoy Silversea's hallmarks of luxury, including butler service for every suite and some of the most spacious accommodations in expedition cruising.
Image courtesy of Silversea.
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by Lynn Elmhirst on 10/10/2024
New digital border processing and hall at SXM airport mean arriving for your next trip to the Caribbean’s famous twin-nation island will be faster, easier, and better than ever before. But you do have to get online and fill out the new forms before you check in to your flight to St. Maarten.
St. Maarten has implemented a new Digital Embarkation/ Disembarkation (ED) Form. As of October 8, 2024, all visitors arriving at Princess Juliana Airport in St. Maarten (SXM) must complete the arrival form before checking in for their flight.
This new digital form aims to simplify the arrival process for travelers with a modernized, streamlined system. The forms and more information are available on a new government website: www.entry.sx
What You Need to Know:
• Who Needs to Fill Out the Form: All travelers, including visitors, residents, transfer passengers including passengers transferring to a cruise ship, must complete the ED form. This applies to people traveling to both the Dutch side (Sint Maarten) and the French side (Saint Martin).
• Filling Out the Form: Travelers are encouraged to fill out the form up to 7 days before travel, but it must be completed at least before check-in. The form is accessible online and should be completed individually for each traveler, including children. Once filled out confirmation is sent via the email that you provided in the form. (Tip: check your junk mail).
• Group and Family Submissions: While one person can fill out the form for the entire family or group, each traveler must have an individual form or be listed under group registration. Proof of the completed form will be required at immigration on arrival.
• Access and Updates: Travelers can update their form if there are any changes to their flight schedule or accommodation. If the form is denied, it can be re-submitted for review.
• Important Requirement: Travelers need to show proof that the form has been completed. Airlines will require this proof at check-in.
How to Complete the ED Form:
• Visit www.entry.sx to access the online ED form.
• Fill out the form and submit it before checking in for your flight.
• You can also update your submitted form if your travel plans change.
In addition to the new form, the long-awaited new arrivals hall at Princess Juliana International Airport officially opens on October 15, 2024, marking the end of a temporary arrival facility tent, which served passengers during the airport’s reconstruction period. The new arrivals hall features:
Between the efficiency of its new, online entry forms and the upgrades in its airport arrival hall, Saint Maarten is more welcoming to visitors than ever.
This stunning Caribbean island is the smallest territory in the world divided between two countries. Its 37 square miles are split between Dutch and French territories, offering a blend of cultures, beautiful beaches, and vibrant experiences, not to mention a reputation for being a culinary capital of the Caribbean with influences from both cultures and the islands. Don’t miss local dishes like Creole seafood, Johnny cakes, and fresh pastries.
Dutch Side (Sint Maarten): The Dutch side is known for its lively atmosphere, casinos, and nightlife. Philipsburg, the capital, has a cruise ship port and offers duty-free shopping, bustling markets, and the famous Great Bay Beach. Don’t miss the spectacle of the world-famous Maho Beach, where planes fly directly overhead as they land at Princess Juliana International Airport. For adventure seekers, the zip lines at Loterie Farm on Pic Paradis provide a chance to explore the island’s lush jungle.
French Side (Saint-Martin): The French side is known for its charming European ambiance, gourmet dining, and stunning beaches. Marigot, the capital, has chic boutiques, local markets, and a touch of French flair. Enjoy a relaxing day at Orient Bay, known for its clear waters and beachside restaurants. For a more secluded experience, head to Anse Marcel or the pristine sands of Happy Bay.
Image courtesy of St. Maarten Tourist Bureau (STB).
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by Lynn Elmhirst on 10/10/2024
Atlas Ocean Voyages, the small-ship cruise line that expanded the concept of expedition cruising from remote, polar exploration to include concepts like its ‘Epicurean Expeditions,’ has debuted “The Explorer’s Table.” It’s a new, specialty dining option only available to guests on its ships in Antarctica and the High Arctic.
An exclusive Omakase-style dining experience, The Explorer’s Table will present global culinary highlights from Spain, Korea, France, Argentina, and North America in The Dome observation lounge.
Prepared for only ten guests in an intimate environment providing for the ultimate dining experience on board Atlas ships, The Explorer’s Table guests will embark on a culinary journey amid scenes of glaciers and icebergs beyond the rails of the ship.
The experience will be available only once on each expedition on all the cruise line’s expedition yachts: World Voyager, World Traveller, and World Navigator, beginning in the upcoming 2024-2025 Antarctic season and continuing in the Arctic season during the summer of 2025.
The multi-course tasting menu is elegantly paired with a selection of premium wines and is offered for a fee – currently USD $179 per guest. Reservations open 60 days before the embarkation date, and pre-reservations can be made through your booking travel advisor.
This unique dining experience features a fusion of global flavors and culinary craftsmanship. Some of the standout dishes include fresh Salad de Bacalao with Tomato, Cod, Olives, and Extra Virgin Olive Oil, and the unique Steamed Pastrami Sandwich with Mustard, Kimchi, and Cheddar (pictured, above). For seafood lovers, the Charcoal Steamed Nishiki Rice with Ossetra Caviar offers a luxurious touch (pictured, below), while the Chargrilled Gaucho-style Vegetables and Beans with Pistachio Gremolata deliver bold, earthy flavors.
Guests will savor the vibrant Mango, Avocado, and Duck with Broccoli Crumbs, and treat their palate to the refreshing Hemingway Peppermint Mojito Crush with Carolina Raspberry. Additional highlights include Flamed Spring Chicken Terrine with Pickles, the rich Jamon Iberico de Jabugo with Lemon Olive Oil, and a decadent Pot de Crème featuring Valrhona Guanaja 70% Chocolate and Yuzu (pictured, top). Each exquisite course will be paired with premium wine selections from the Mendoza Valley, a region renowned for its exceptional wines and rich, bold flavors.
Atlas Ocean Voyages is the American-based yacht expedition brand of Mystic Invest Holding, a Portuguese hospitality company with years of experience in hotels, river and ocean cruising for the European market. Atlas Ocean Voyages offers stylish and intimate expedition yachts featuring fewer than 100 suites and staterooms offering five-star comfort, from luxurious accommodations and an all-inclusive onboard experience to in-depth excursions for fewer than 200 guests.
Fares include a Cultural Immersion tour, open bars aboard the ship, including craft beers, specialty coffees, and smoothies, L’OCCITANE bath amenities, an in-room coffee bar, prepaid gratuities, and complimentary emergency medical evacuation insurance.
A nearly 1:1 guest-to-staff ratio of officers, staff and crew who are just as passionate about travel as the explorer guests onboard makes for highly attentive service that comes from a place of genuine connection.
World Navigator was launched in 2021, World Traveller in 2022, and World Voyager joined the fleet in 2023.
Atlas Ocean Voyages yachts are ice-class certified, made to explore both the icy waters of Antarctica and warm seas of the Mediterranean. Their small size allows them to traverse hidden gems and remote destinations that the large cruise ships cannot, as well as navigate narrow waterways like the Corinth Canal in Greece and Guadalquivir River in Spain.
Purpose-built with a hydro-jet propulsion system that allows virtually silent cruising, Atlas Ocean Voyages’ expedition yachts can follow the migrations of marine life while keeping the sensitive ecosystem in mind. Realizing the possibilities of environmental stewardship with the latest hybrid power management and maximizing fuel efficiency, the cruise line’s goal is to reduce the impact on the environment so that we can all enjoy the natural marvels of our world.
Images courtesy of Atlas Ocean Voyages.
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by Lynn Elmhirst on 09/26/2024
During a spectacular naming ceremony in Civitavecchia – the port for Rome, Italy – Explora Journeys launched Explora II. The September, 2024 event marked the debut of the second of six ships by the lifestyle ocean travel brand of the MSC Group. Explora Journeys promises guests the opportunity to experience an “Ocean State of Mind,” connecting you with both the sea and the growing cruise line’s curated destinations.
The traditional maritime ceremony featured the symbolic cutting of a ribbon to break a bottle on the ship’s bow by Explora II’s godmother, Rosalba Giugni, founder and president of the Marevivo Foundation, a non-partisan environmental conservation organization committed to the preservation of marine environments, founded in 1985.
Rosalba was chosen for this honor, as a friend and partner of the MSC Foundation, but also as a mark of respect for her 35-year commitment to the protection of the world’s oceans.
The event was hosted by Italian actress and TV personality Lorella Cuccarini and concluded with a traditional parade of ship officers.
Following the formal proceedings, guests enjoyed a gala dinner and an evening of vibrant celebrations, including a captivating musical performance by English pop singer Tony Hadley, along with a breathtaking drone show that creatively narrated the story of Explora Journeys, featuring a stunning display of the Explora Journeys logo with its Mandala.
With a vision to redefine luxury ocean travel for discerning travellers, Explora Journeys blends European hospitality and 300 years of the company’s maritime heritage.By 2028 the Explora Journeys fleet will comprise six ships offering a spirit of luxurious ocean adventure visiting sought-after destinations, where guests can expect the same high standards and quality service across our fleet, all over the globe, says the cruise line.
Joining sister ship Explora I, Explora II introduces new features, including new retail options - the first Buccellati jewellery boutique at sea and special collaborations and limited editions by Borsalino, Kampos, and Massaba for Explora Journeys, exclusively available at the ship’s ‘The Journey’ boutique.
The re-designed Ocean Wellness Spa offers a series of new treatment programs inspired by authentic Ayurvedic principles. And the Helios Pool & Bar has been refreshed with bespoke Unopiù outdoor furniture designed by Matteo Nunziati.
ExploraII features original artwork by Emilio Isgró and Prince Hussain Aga Khan’s ‘Marine Encounters’, an exhibition of his marine photographs showcasing diverse underwater species and ecosystems. The exquisite collection of marine photography was gifted to the MSC Foundation as part of the partnership between the MSC Foundation and ‘Focused on Nature’, reflecting a shared vision to educate and inspire action on the need to preserve marine life and biodiversity.
Explora ships are home to fewer than 1000 guests, all in oceanfront suites, penthouses and residences designed to be ‘Homes at Sea’, all with sweeping ocean views, private terrace, a choice of eleven distinct culinary experiences across six vibrant restaurants plus in-suite dining, Chef’s Kitchen, twelve bars and lounges (eight indoor and four outdoor), four swimming pools, extensive outdoor decks with 64 private cabanas, wellness facilities, and refined entertainment. Inspired by the company`s European heritage, Explora Journeys will provide guests with an immersive ocean experience and respectful and intuitive hospitality.
Both Explora ships in service will reposition to the Caribbean for the winter season. Highlight destinations include Gustavia in St. Barts, Oranjestad in Aruba, and St. John’s in Antigua. In the summer of 2025, Explora II will sail in the Western Mediterranean visiting ports such as Barcelona in Spain, St. Tropez in France, Monte Carlo and Porto Cervo in Italy.
Explora Journeys has already celebrated the keel laying of Explora III and the steel cutting of Explora IV at their shipyard in Italy. Explora III, set for delivery in 2026, will be the first of four ships in the Explora Journeys fleet to be powered by the environmentally friendly liquefied natural gas.
All ships feature modern environmental and marine technologies, including selective catalytic reduction systems, shore power plug-in connectivity, underwater noise management systems to protect marine life, and a comprehensive range of onboard energy-efficient equipment designed to optimize engine use and reduce emissions. The ship has been designated ‘Green Plus’ by RINA – the highest level that the certification body grants for environmental sustainability.
Images courtesy of Explora Journeys.
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by Lynn Elmhirst on 09/26/2024
The only surviving ancient Wonder of the world is still sharing new secrets – thousands of years after construction. No wonder experiencing Egypt’s pyramids is one of the bucket list trips of all time for so many travelers.
The ancient Egyptian pyramids we can all picture are located on the Giza plateau in Cairo, which is home to three main pyramids that served as pharaohs’ tombs: the Great Pyramid of Khufu (Cheops), the Pyramid of Khafre (Chephren), and the Pyramid of Menkaure. Standing over 450 feet tall, the Great Pyramid is the largest and most famous of the three. It was constructed around 4,500 years ago as a tomb for the Pharaoh Khufu and remains a marvel of engineering, with each of its approximately 2.3 million stone blocks weighing several tons. As the only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World still standing, Cheops is one of the most important historical monuments on the planet.
Adding to the mystique of the site is the equally famous Great Sphinx of Giza. This mythical creature, with the body of a lion and the head of a human, is believed to represent Pharaoh Khafre and serves as the guardian of the plateau. The Sphinx, like the pyramids, has endured the test of time and remains a symbol of Egypt’s rich cultural heritage. Standing in front of it, you’ll be captivated by its timeless gaze, along with the awe of the sheer scale and precision of the construction of the Sphinx and Pyramids which have stood for millennia of human history.
Giza is just one of the places in Egypt with pyramids testifying to the incredible ancient – and lost - civilization. They have inspired a number of myths over the millennia of their remarkable time as sources of fascination and travel imagination.
Here are some of the most popular myths that have now been debunked:
Let’s dismiss some of the wildest claims first! A common conspiracy theory is that extraterrestrials built the pyramids because ancient Egyptians supposedly lacked the skills to do so. But in fact, evidence shows that ancient Egyptians had advanced knowledge of engineering, mathematics, and labor organization to build the pyramids.
So, let’s move right along. And also abandon the myths that the pyramids have some kind of cosmic alignment or mystical power – or that they were even built by giants, like huge LEGO!
Similarly, despite fantastic stories and Hollywood blockbusters, there’s never been any evidence of curses being part of ancient Egyptian burial practices. And while valuables were interred with their pharaohs, the truth is that any type of ‘treasure’ was looted almost immediately in ancient times. In fact, persistent grave robbing is considered to have been the impetus for royal burials to have been moved away from Giza and into more secretive places, like the Valley of the Kings. No serious scholar expects to discover a hidden treasure trove today.
Archeological evidence has now shown that the highly skilled laborers who worked on the pyramids were not slaves but paid workers who were well-fed, provided with healthcare, and given honorable burials.
But how did these skilled laborers manage the incredible feat of pyramid-building?
While it’s generally accepted that ramps were used to transport the massive stone blocks, the myth that simple straight ramps were the only method has been challenged. More recent theories suggest a combination of ramps, cranes, and levers might have been employed, possibly even spiraling ramps that circled the pyramids.
The latest research suggests another technology might have made even the pyramids in Egypt possible – and only due to conditions that no longer remain in most of Egypt.
The ‘Step Pyramid’ at Saqqara was built in the 27th century BC, and, at over 200 feet tall, was the tallest structure known to be in existence at that time. It was constructed of stones weighing over 600 pounds.
And while ramps, cranes, winches, hoists and other Physics 101 techniques, combined with human strength, are attributed to the more recent, and smaller pyramids, researchers in a new study claim they’ve solved the mystery of how some of the most ancient – and immense - pyramids of pharaonic Egyptian civilization were likely constructed.
A team of engineers and geologists say ancient Egyptians likely harnessed the power of hydraulics to devise and operate a lifting system powered by stored water.
We associate modern-day Egypt with a desert with the mighty Nile running up the middle. But experts point out that thousands of years ago, much of Egypt was more like a savannah, with regular rainfall and more sources of water, including streams and man-made trenches and canals that channeled water to the building site of the Step Pyramid.
These researchers point out that the structure of the Step Pyramid, with an internal vertical shaft, would have accommodated a water-powered ‘elevator’ that could float the immense stones up inside the middle of the structure to be placed as the pyramid’s side kept rising.
As researchers continue to unveil new theories and revelations about the incredible ingenuity and knowledge legacy of ancient Egyptians, travel to see these wonders of human history in person remains one of the most inspiring and intriguing trips any of us can undertake.
Image: Getty
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by Lynn Elmhirst on 09/12/2024
Marriott Cancun, An All-Inclusive Resort, has opened its doors to guests. The newest resort for Marriott Hotels is more proof of two growing travel trends: multi-generational family vacations and redefining the increasingly popular all-inclusive holiday.
There are 600 Marriott Hotels around the world, and this marks the first all-inclusive in the namesake chain of hotels that’s part of the mega hospitality company Marriott Bonvoy.
Citing research that says over half of parents are planning trips that include both grandparents and children, Marriott says the need for all-inclusives- where hassle-free vacations offering relaxation, activity and hospitality for all ages come together under one roof - has never been higher.
"It's about more than just a vacation - it's about creating unforgettable memories,” says a Marriott exec. “We're dedicated to creating enriching moments of togetherness, and our commitment will continue to strengthen as we grow. Our debut property in Cancun perfectly embodies the Marriott Hotels' All-Inclusive promise; with its beautiful surroundings, world-class amenities and wonderful hospitality, there is truly something for everyone."
A New Beachfront Escape in the Heart of Cancun’s Golden Zone
Beginning with the Greatroom, guests are welcomed into a modern and elegant hotel that is infused with local details and a mood that transitions seamlessly from day to night. From the welcome station to the buzzy signature bar, the space sets the tone of the trip for arriving guests.
The resort features 450 newly redesigned guestrooms, including 124 premium ocean view rooms and 38 suites with balconies offering breathtaking vistas of the azure waters. Two Presidential Suites epitomize luxury, featuring a large balcony that overlooks Cancun's pristine beaches to the east and a beautiful terrace with views of the Nichupte Lagoon and its nuanced sunsets to the west.
Each room showcases contemporary decor, well-appointed bathrooms, and daily replenished mini bars, fusing comfort and convenience throughout your stay.
Over a Dozen Dining Venues
Guests can choose from 13 diverse dining options, including everything from Mexican cuisine and innovative Japanese dishes to poolside pizzerias and refreshing ceviche served in a tropical oasis.
The heart of the resort, the Greatroom Lobby Bar, offers stunning ocean vistas and a sophisticated ambiance for socializing over creative cocktails. Indulge at HANA Polynesian Grill, starting with a tropical breakfast buffet and culminating in dinner on an enchanting terrace featuring Polynesian-inspired delicacies. For a taste of Tulum-inspired cuisine, Sacbé Beach Shack delivers flavorful dishes, perfect for enjoying under the sun or in the shade. The resort's burgers and shakes spot serves up a taste of nostalgia with its classic counter seating and family-friendly atmosphere, while Alice's Tamale Ritual makes its rounds throughout the resort daily with its mobile food cart, bringing guests together for a delicious and enlightening culinary experience.
Both unique culinary offerings are inspired by Marriott's hospitality roots and will serve as staples for future Marriott Hotels All-Inclusive properties.
Infinite Relaxation… or Actvities for All Ages
Marriott Cancun offers a variety of daily and nightly activities for every generation of traveler designed to encourage you to explore your passions, enrich yourself in the destination, and make lasting memories with loved ones.
Guests can participate in cooking classes, enjoy poolside entertainment and explore the locale through cultural experiences.
Or dive into adventure at the expansive water park, featuring thrilling water slides, a relaxing lazy river, and multiple pools, including exclusive adults-only areas. Additionally, fitness enthusiasts who wish to maintain their workout routines while traveling can take advantage of the state-of-the-art fitness center.
At the resort's sports bar, guests can take the stage during lively karaoke nights as well as enjoy nighttime performances. The excitement continues in the venue's arcade area, where kids and adults alike can immerse themselves in endless fun.
The Workshop connects guests to the local culture and foster lasting memories with art lessons, craft workshops, and more, providing a meaningful gift to take home.
Included within the all-inclusive resort offering is the expansive 5,000-square-foot indoor/outdoor CAMP Club by Marriott, which keeps kids engaged all day long with a variety of action-packed and creative activity zones, including slime making in the Schmutz "slime" zone, Latin dance lessons, and Kukulkan Puppet crafting, which is a special craft experience unique to the destination. Other zones include a splatter paint cabin, a sound cabin equipped with instruments for kids to make their own music, CAMPitheater, where kids can take center stage and perform, sing, dance for family, friends, and other guests, and Turf Field zone with areas for ziplining, wall-climbing, and more.
Meetings and Events Meet Pleasure
The resort has over 24,000 square feet of renovated space for meetings and events, including one space that can accommodate up to 800 people, as well as a dozen smaller breakout rooms.
Expert event planners are on-site to ensure that every event - whether that be an intimate beachside wedding, a family reunion, or company retreat - exceeds expectations.
More Marriott All-Inclusives to Come
New sister resorts are slated to debut in 2024 and 2025 in destinations including Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, and Djerba, Tunisia. Marriott Hotels All-Inclusive concept will be similar around the world, encouraging guests to connect with the location and each other in enriching ways, from local artist experiences and expansive water features to elevated service moments and modern design with easy technology.
START YOUR ALL-INCLUSIVE BEACH TRIP!
Image courtesy of Marriott Cancun, An All-Inclusive Resort
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by Lynn Elmhirst on 08/22/2024
Sue Lamb
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