Press Releases Archives

Family vacations in Africa: safari with children on the rise in 2025

Frankfurt am Main, January 14, 2025 – Safari vacations with children, also as multi-generational trips, are becoming increasingly popular and the camps in the African game reserves have adapted to this travel group in recent years. According to a study by the Adventure Travel Trade Association, 40 percent of all adventure trips are now designed for families. The trend shows that parents want to offer their children authentic nature experiences that combine education and adventure.

“Our tour operator partners from German-speaking countries are expecting an increase in bookings for family trips to Africa in 2025,” says Hanna Kleber from the Voice4Africa initiative, which is committed to promoting tourism to Africa as a driver for sustainable development and international understanding. African vacation destinations are made for educational adventure experiences. From the “Big Five” to child-friendly outdoor activities: Africa’s fascinating landscapes and animal worlds offer ideal conditions for a vacation that appeals to all generations.

The best safari destinations for families: classics and new, up-and-coming destinations

South Africa: Malaria-free adventures in the Eastern Cape region
South Africa is an established destination for families, especially the malaria-free regions such as the Eastern Cape are suitable for families with young children. The Addo Elephant National Park offers the opportunity to experience herds of elephants, zebras and lions up close. Thanks to well-developed roads and child-friendly accommodation, the region is ideal for self-drivers, also in combination with the Garden Route and a visit to Cape Town. Tip: The private Amakhala Game Reserve offers special Mini Ranger children’s programs, where the youngest safari guests learn to read animal tracks and learn exciting facts about the flora of the savannah. Kenya and Tanzania: safari meets beach vacation
Kenya and Tanzania are popular destinations for families with slightly older children who want to combine adventure and relaxation. After Big Five safaris in the world-famous Masai Mara or Serengeti National Park, the white sandy beaches of Kenya’s Diani Beach or Zanzibar’s dream beaches off the Tanzanian coast beckon. Many lodges in East Africa are family-friendly and offer shorter game drives and interactive programs for children. In Kenya, there is a larger selection of more affordable safari accommodation. Tip: Stays in lodges in which the local communities are involved, such as the Africa Amini Life camps in Tanzania, are particularly authentic and socially acceptable. Here, guests young and old learn more about the customs, crafts and way of life of the local Maasai. For example, children can take part in traditional dances, learn how to hunt with a spear or weave Maasai jewelry. These authentic cultural experiences enrich the safari adventure and promote an understanding of the people and traditions in the vacation regions. Insider tip Zambia: combine a safari with the Victoria Falls
Zambia is an even less frequented gem for families. The South Luangwa National Park is considered one of the best places for walking safaris – ideal for teenagers who want to explore the wilderness on foot in the company of professional rangers. The Victoria Falls are a particular highlight in Zambia. The impressive waterfalls are not only a natural wonder, but also the starting point for family-friendly adventures such as boat trips or nature hikes on the well-secured trails along the falls. Tip: There are many outdoor activities in Zambia that are particularly exciting for teenagers. Canoe trips on the Zambezi, for example, offer a completely new perspective on nature and allow you to observe animals up close. A dip in the rock pool above the Victoria Falls provides unique photo opportunities and long-lasting memories.

What should I bear in mind when going on safari with children?

On a safari vacation with children, it is crucial to choose accommodation that is specially designed for families and offers child-friendly programs and family-friendly rooms. Many lodges organize activities that allow children to explore and understand nature in a fun way. Given the increasing demand in recent years, most safari lodges now have family suites with connecting doors or exclusive units designed specifically for families. Age restrictions are common on safaris: game drives are usually open to children from around 6 years of age, while walking safaris are usually permitted from 12 years of age. Alternative activities are offered for younger children, such as game viewing from the lodge or nature experiences including babysitting services. Long driving times, rainy seasons and very hot temperatures should be avoided, so it makes sense to have your travel plan drawn up by a specialist tour operator. Safety is paramount in the wilderness – the instructions of rangers and guides should therefore always be followed, especially when it comes to the safe handling of wild animals.

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About Voice4Africa

VOICE4AFRICA is an initiative of the KLEBER GROUPa full-service PR agency with a special focus on tourism and many years of expertise in Africa. Together with Africa tour operators, the initiative promotes responsible tourism to Africa as a means of international understanding and a driver for sustainable development. Voice4Africa is a founding member of the business initiative ReThinking Africa and winner of the Corps Touristique Award for International Understanding.

January 14, 2025

Winter escape to La Palma – First almond blossom festival, then carnival

La Palma/Frankfurt am Main, January 14, 2025 – From blossoming almond trees to lively carnival celebrations – La Palma has a lot to offer in February and March. On La Palma, the greenest of the Canary Islands, you can attend a variety of special events in February and March. The upcoming events on the island – from lively festivals to remarkable astronomical phenomena – attract both locals and visitors.

Almond blossom festival

The almond blossom festival in Puntagorda is an important festival on La Palma, during which the village is cloaked in the pink and white colors of the blossoming almond trees. The festival, which has been held annually since 1977, takes place in the last week of January and the first week of February. In the village of Puntagorda, which is known for its numerous almond trees, various activities such as workshops and art exhibitions are offered, reflecting the cultural and traditional heritage of the region. There is live music and dancing in the streets, with both locals and guest artists performing, creating a lively and appealing atmosphere.

Carnival events

1st Gran Polvacera The carnival celebrations take place in February and March on La Palma and combine music, tradition and community. An outstanding event in February is the Gran Polvacera in Los Llanos de Aridane. During this event, participants gather to throw white powder (traditionally baby powder) while enjoying musical performances such as batucadas. The festivities include a procession from Calle Real to Plaza de España as well as open-air parties and concerts that add to the lively atmosphere of the carnival. 2nd Día de Los Indianos In March, the Santa Cruz de La Palma Carnival takes place, offering a variety of activities including parades, costume contests and musical performances. A highlight of this festival is the Día de Los Indianos on March 3, when thousands of people dress up in white and take part in a humorous “powder battle”. It symbolizes the historic return of emigrants from America, especially Cuba. The Indianos Festival has been declared an event of regional, national and international tourist interest. The event, filled with Caribbean music, dancing and humor, combines nostalgia with celebration and embodies the unique history and spirit of the island. 3rd Burial of the Sardine The carnival season ends with the “Burial of the Sardine” in San Andrés y Sauces on March 14. This event includes a procession with a symbolic sardine, accompanied by humorous characters, before the sardine is burned, signaling the end of the carnival.

Astronomical events

On March 14, the island will offer an excellent view of the total lunar eclipse, in which the Earth’s shadow completely covers the moon. Later in the month, on March 29, a partial solar eclipse will be visible, with the moon partially covering the sun’s disk. The clear skies of Starlight Destination La Palma make it an ideal place to observe such astronomical phenomena. With average temperatures between 15 and 20 degrees and a variety of special experiences, the “Isla Bonita” offers an ideal destination for all those who want to get away from it all and are looking for an exotic destination within Europe during these last winter months.

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About La Palma

La Palma, also known as “isla bonita” (the beautiful island), is the fifth largest and greenest island of the Canary archipelago with its 88,000 inhabitants and 708 ^km2 of surface area. From lush forests to steep cliffs that hide black sand beaches, the island surprises its visitors with its ecological treasures and exceptional landscape. La Palma was the first Canary Island to be declared a biosphere reserve in 2002. The island has a large number of protected natural areas and the Caldera de Taburiente National Park is located inland. The lava that reaches into the sea has created a low, rocky coastline with small bays hidden between steep cliffs. Due to its high altitude in relation to its small surface area, La Palma is considered one of the highest islands in the world. The island has high mountains such as the Roque de los Muchachos, which is a global reference point for astrophysics thanks to its modern observatory, which has one of the most modern and spectacular telescopes in the world. You can find more information here: https://visitlapalma.es/de/

January 14, 2025

KLEBER GROUP now represents the Taiwan Tourism Office in German-speaking countries and the Benelux countries

Frankfurt / Taipei, January 14, 2025 – The KLEBER GROUP is now handling press relations for the Taiwan Tourism Administration in the DACH region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland) and – as a secondary market – in the Benelux countries. The contract, which was awarded at the turn of the year, comprises a series of strategic measures to consolidate Taiwan’s position as a versatile travel destination in Southeast Asia. As part of the mandate, the KLEBER GROUP will regularly share news with travel-savvy media contacts in the aforementioned markets, organize topic-specific group press trips, submit trend-based topic suggestions, arrange interviews with quotable representatives of the Taiwan Tourism Bureau and support media inquiries. Media events with high-profile partners are also planned – the first of which will take place in Munich in spring 2025 (information will follow shortly). Key media also have the opportunity to request individual support for press trips without obligation, which can be implemented depending on the topic, local capacities and approval by the client. Another focus is on cooperation with travel sales media and direct communication with travel agencies. The aim is to provide counter staff with up-to-date information and to further consolidate the core messages of the Taiwan Tourism Board through cooperation with well-known tour operators. This year’s campaign focuses on backpacking and individual travel, high-income and culturally sophisticated travelers, family vacations and Taipei as a worthwhile transit destination. It is particularly noteworthy that Taipei, with the shortest average flight time to all relevant destinations in Southeast Asia and Australia, scores points with transfer passengers who want to enrich their journey to the region with further unforgettable impressions. Julia Kleber, CEO of the KLEBER GROUP, is visibly delighted with the order: “With Taiwan, the KLEBER GROUP now represents one of the most exciting destinations in Southeast Asia. With its high level of safety, impressive natural wonders and diverse offerings, this island in the Western Pacific is an unmissable destination for explorers, families and discerning travelers alike. We are very much looking forward to putting our many years of expertise at the service of Taiwan from now on.” Arthur Hsieh, Director of the Taiwan Tourism Administration in Frankfurt am Main, emphasizes the great importance of strategic partnerships: “A strong presence in key European markets requires not only a clear message, but also the ability to communicate it credibly to the media in a targeted manner and in close cooperation with experienced partners. In the KLEBER GROUP, we have found a partner who shares our vision and has an understanding of the needs of the media landscape in the DACH and Benelux regions. We are convinced that we will benefit from this alliance and look forward to a successful collaboration.”

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About Taiwan Taiwan lies 160 kilometers off the southeast coast of China in the Western Pacific. The island, which is the size of Switzerland, combines contemporary comfort with natural beauty, Far East Asian flair and cultural richness in the smallest of spaces. The ultra-modern capital Taipei captivates visitors with its impressive skyline against a backdrop of subtropical nature, characterized by the world-famous Taipei 101, as well as its lively and hospitable atmosphere with maximum travel safety. The culinary diversity ranges from authentic street food experiences to star-awarded gourmet cuisine. The spectacular beauty of the landscape is captivating with its lush green rainforests, alpine mountains, rugged coastlines, low-lying peaceful plains and magical coral and volcanic islands. In the bustling cities, centuries-old traditions meet the modernity of the 21st century. More information on https://www.taiwantourismus.de/.

January 14, 2025

The Lux Collective unveils visionary global expansion plans for 2025 and beyond

LUX* announces new openings in Africa, Southeast Asia and the Middle East,

while SALT prepares for its debut in China next year

Mauritius/Munich, December 10, 2024 – The award-winning global luxury hotel operator from Mauritius The Lux Collective has announced its expansion plans for 2025 and beyond, with plans to open new stores in China, Africa, the Middle East and South East Asia. The Group’s boutique brand, SALTwill make its debut outside Mauritius with two openings in China, while The Lux Collective’s flagship luxury brand, LUX*The company will be launching in the Middle East and South East Asia and expanding its presence in Africa with a futuristic, opulent safari camp in Botswana. At the top This highly anticipated evolution is the new Chief Executive Officer of The Lux Collective, Olivier Chavy, who is driving the Group’s strategic presence in emerging destinations around the globe and strengthening its position as an innovative company in the industry.

The SALT brand expands outside Mauritius for the first time

In the second quarter of 2025, The Lux Collective will open the SALT of Anji in China in China, which will provide access to the lush natural beauty of the Anji area, a tranquil region known for its white tea and bamboo forests. Launched in 2018, the brand SALT offers a humanistic approach to hospitality that connects modern explorers with meaningful travel experiences, sustainability and the local community connects. As travelers increasingly seek new destinations to connect with nature and avoid the crowds, Anji offers beautiful landscapes and cultural treasures just 2.5 hours’ drive from Shanghai. Designed by renowned South African architect Peter Rich, SALT of Anji is inspired by Catalan architect Gaudí and his imaginative use of natural stones and elements to create stunning structures. The sustainability-focused resort has 108 Room and Villas whose modern interior design complements the stone aesthetic of the building. It features a picturesque outdoor pool, themed restaurants and an elegant SALT Equilibrium Spa.

The SALT of Mount Siguniangwhich continues SALT’s journey in China, will open in 2027 in a Tibetan village in Sichuan Province on the threshold of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mount Siguniang National Park. The resort will be the first international hotel to open in this protected natural area. As part of the Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuary, it offers unparalleled access to magnificent peaks and emerald green forests.

LUX* expands its presence with its first hotel management contract in Southern Africa – LUX* Xinii Mababe, Botswana

Following the successful opening of the LUX* Marijani Zanzibar in Tanzania in July last year, the hotel group is venturing into other new destinations on the African continent. The Lux Collective and Diamond Power Pty Ltd have officially signed a hotel management agreement to operate and manage a new project – the LUX* Xinii Mababe in Botswana.

LUX* Xinii Mababe is an exclusive destination in the wilds of Mababe, home to a diverse wildlife including large herds of buffalo, zebra, elephant, giraffe, lion and leopard. The resort’s minimalist architecture is inspired by Botswana’s cultural heritage and designed to be sustainable. All 26 lodges have a centerpiece that is modeled after striking African trees and each lodge symbolically with rooted in the land. The roof structures honor the indigenous Hambukushu tribes of the Okavango Delta, also known as the rainmakers of the Okavango. Their characteristic funnel shape reflects the shape of the Hambukushu fishing baskets, while the conical design of each roof uses local materials and ancient methods used to collect rainwater.

Lyndon Jones, founder of Diamond Power Pty Ltd and owner of the Xinii River Camp Project in Botswana, says: “Recognized for its excellence and innovation in the global hospitality industry, our like-minded collaboration with The Lux Collective aims to make LUX* Xinii Mababe an unparalleled destination for immersive safari and wellness experiences, with thoughtful architecture and design inspired by the rich cultural heritage of Botswana and the Okavango. Our shared goal is to create a truly immersive and luxurious nature experience for future guests with unique accommodation, culinary and wellness offerings, while respecting the surrounding nature.”

This successful collaboration was facilitated by International Tourism Investment Corporation Ltd (ITIC), a London-based global boutique advisory firm, which is acting as transaction and financial advisor for this project.

LUX* debuts in the Middle East and expands its presence in Asia

The flagship luxury brand LUX* becomes in the 4th quarter of 2025 with LUX* Al Bridi and LUX* Al Jabal in Sharjah, UAE, make their debut in the Middle East. Sharjah has been recognized by UNESCO as the “Cultural Capital of the Arab World” for its culture, art and history and boasts a number of museums, mosques and cultural sites, including the desert surrounded Ghost town of Al Madam. The contemporary boutique-style resort with 45 accommodations overlooking the Gulf of Oman and rugged mountains offers exclusive access to a private beach, world-class dining options, a relaxing LUX* ME Spa and cultural immersion opportunities. Set in the wilderness, LUX* Al Bridi opens as a contemporary retreat with 35 luxury safari-style tents designed to resemble sand dunes and blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. There is a wealth of experiences right on the doorstep, including wilderness dining, dune surfing and off-road vehicle excursions for stargazing under the Arabian sky.

In Asia, the LUX* brand brand in the second quarter of 2026 will also debut in Vietnam with the country’s and region’s first overwater resort – LUXNAM* Phu Quoca private paradise in the Kien Giang Biosphere Reserve, nestled between dense jungle and idyllic beaches on the northern tip of Phu Quoc Island. Inspired by the famous overwater resorts of the Maldives and with panoramic views of the sea, the 116-villa contemporary resort comprises 99 overwater villas and 17 land-based residences. The design of the resort with its LUX* ME Spa and specialty restaurants will reflect the best of island living by highlighting locally crafted and traditional materials with a minimalist touch.

In the third quarter of 2026, the urban luxury resort LUX* Guangzhou in the Huangpu District in Guangzhou City and offer an oasis of calm in this fast-paced metropolis. The LUX* Guangzhou is located in two high-rise buildings, which house the luxury resort and residences and residences, and offers unobstructed views of the city, a variety of dining options and a sensual LUX* ME Spa.

“As CEO of The Lux Collective, I am delighted to lead the group into another exciting phase of global expansion and strategic growth. The Lux Collective is a dynamic and innovative homegrown Mauritian brand that puts people, exceptional service and extraordinary experiences first. The latest projects for LUX* and SALT are gateways to fascinating and emerging destinations such as Anji, Mababe, Phu Quoc and Sharjah, allowing travelers to authentically immerse themselves in each region’s unique identity.

We are thrilled to announce the first opening of the LUX* brand in Botswana and look forward to putting LUX* Xinii Mababe on the tourism map as an ultra-luxurious safari and wellness destination. tourist map to place. This futuristic project, designed with sustainability in mind and expected to open in the first quarter of 2027, will attract travelers from all over the world to this enticing location. We believe that luxury and environmental protection must coexist in every resort we open. Our focus is on creating positive impact while providing luxurious hospitality and meaningful experiences with a sense of place.” says Olivier Chavy, Chief Executive Officer of The Lux Collective.

The Lux Collective’s global openings in 2025 and beyond mark an exciting new chapter in luxury hospitality, building on the renowned brands’ ambitions to deliver authentic experiences in stunning locations for the modern traveler.

Pictures are here to find.

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About The Lux Collective

The Lux Collective (“TLC”) is a Mauritius-based global operator of luxury hotels and manages the brandsLUX*,SALT, TAMASSA,SOCIOand Café LUX*.

TLC is committed to making every moment count and taking care of what matters. People are at the center of TLC’s corporate culture, and the company stays true to its values of passion, responsibility and innovation in everything it does. By providing comfort as well as thoughtful and exquisite design, TLC creates experiences that make every moment a special moment for guests. The company is committed to acting responsibly and respectfully with future generations in mind.

Through its group-wide sustainability project “Tread Lightly”, The Lux Collective promises an environmentally conscious stay at its hotels. The partnership with Altruistiq, a group of CO2 experts, focuses on the ecological footprint and ensures that the sources of emissions are recorded according to the highest international science-based standard.

TLC continues to expand its global presence and currently operates 18 resorts and hotels in Mauritius, the Maldives, Reunion Island, China and Tanzania. A further 14 hotels in Asia and the Middle East are in the development phase.

TLC is a subsidiary of IBL, a leading listed company among the “Top 100” in Mauritius and a major economic player in the Indian Ocean. IBL is active in the key sectors of the Mauritian economy and has a global portfolio of around 300 subsidiaries and affiliates.

About LUX*

With LUX* time is the real luxury. LUX* helps people celebrate life by consistently delivering on the promise of a different kind of luxury: hospitality that is lighter. Lighter. In a world where a deeper sense of connection is hard to come by, even on vacation, it allows guests to break out of the ordinary. By orchestrating extraordinary experiences in different locations – whether on the beach, in the city or in nature – the everyday is transformed into something extraordinary through upscale service, contemporary spaces and thoughtful hideaways to truly unwind and relax – true to the motto “Life Extraordinary”.

About SALT

SALT is a humanistic approach to hospitality launched in November 2018, connecting modern explorers with meaningful travel experiences. Led by hospitality visionary and CEO of The Lux Collective, Paul Jones, SALT introduces a new way of hospitality for the culturally curious. SALT is dedicated to the wonder of local and sustainable, bringing guests to people – not just places. It reveals the heartbeat of destinations and their communities and gets guests to explore them – the SALT way.

Press contact:

KLEBER GROUP – Munich office

Silke Warnke-Rehm | Vanessa Rödel

Tel: +49 (0) 89 – 28 70 230 – 0,

silke.warnke-rehm@klebergroup.com

vanessa.roedel@klebergroup.com

December 10, 2024

Christmas playground Milan

The “Milano, Your Christmas Playground” campaign invites you to discover Milan as a sparkling Christmas playground. Cultural highlights, special Christmas markets, festive Christmas trees and atmospheric light installations throughout the city create a unique atmosphere.

Milan/Munich, December 10, 2024 – Milan is getting ready for Christmas with the launch of YesMilano’s new visual marketing campaign “Milano, Your Christmas Playground”, which invites you to discover the city during the festive season. During the Christmas season, Milan is hard to beat in terms of diversity: From famous masterpieces of fine art and opera, to snow-capped mountains just a stone’s throw away, to design and nightlife, haute cuisine and luxury shopping.

In the newYes Milano video clip the city becomes a Christmas carousel in which two young protagonists are catapulted through the exciting dimensions of Milanese life. The camera accompanies the playful chase through Milan, with stops at iconic locations and experiences such as the festively illuminated streets of Brera, the Teatro alla Scala, the Fondazione Prada and a pastry shop where Iginio Massari conjures up magical Christmas creations.

The adventure also picks up on Milan’s role as the venue for the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina: a trip to the snowy slopes of the Stelvio and the surprising appearance of Olympic figure skater Carolina Kostner as a testimonial – she wears a Milano Cortina sweatshirt – convey the Olympic spirit.

Christmas trees all over the city

A total of 27 Christmas trees and 14 light installations will adorn Milan’s city districts thanks to the successful collaboration of public and private sponsors, underlining the festive atmosphere in Italy’s capital of Christmas shopping. The most impressive is certainly the 27.5 meter high fir tree from Milano Cortina (from Ponte di Legno, the ski resort in Val Camonica) in Piazza Duomo, which will be accompanied by Tina and Milo, the mascots of Milano Cortina 2026.

“Milan is preparing for the 2026 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games. The magnificent tree for Piazza Duomo was erected with the support of the Fondazione Milano Cortina 2026. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the many private companies that responded enthusiastically to the invitation to participate in ‘Christmas in Milano 2024’: 27 Christmas trees were donated for the city’s public spaces – a new record for Milan. Each project in the city center is linked to an installation in a different municipality. And all at no cost to the city budget. A great joy for the people of Milan and for the tourists who come to the city over the holidays”, says Martina Riva, City Councillor for Youth, Sport and Tourism.

The opening evening at La Scala and the Prima Diffusa

The Teatro alla Scala opens its season every year with the traditional Prima on December 7, the day of St. Ambrose, the patron saint of Milan. This year, music director Riccardo Chailly has started the 2024/2025 season with a new production of “La forza del destino” – The Power of Destiny, directed by Leo Muscato.

To celebrate the opening of the Teatro alla Scala season, the City of Milan and Edison are also presenting Prima Diffusa, bringing the energy of opera to the streets, squares, theaters and even prisons of Milan from December 1 to 11, 2024, making it accessible to all.

“The Prima Diffusa is an important and eagerly awaited moment for our city: Milan is renewing its commitment to making high culture accessible to all. By bringing Giuseppe Verdi’s opera ‘La forza del destino’ to over 30 venues in the city, from theaters to shelters, from hospitals to prisons, we are reaffirming the inclusive value of culture as an instrument of social cohesion. The project, which is the result of a network of valuable collaborations, is an excellent example of how Milan manages to combine artistic excellence with human solidarity, making the magic of La Scala’s premiere a shared heritage for the whole community”, explains the City Councillor for Culture, Tommaso Sacchi.

The highlight of the initiative was the live broadcast on December 7 on 37 screens in the districts of Milan and at four locations in Lombardy (Malpensa Airport, MUMAC Museum in Binasco, Castello Visconteo in Abbiategrasso, Cineteca Milano Area Metropoli in Paderno Dugnano).

Discover the Grande Brera and Palazzo Citterio

In addition to the festivities, there is the eagerly awaited opening of Grande Brera to celebrate this Christmas. After more than 50 years of anticipation, the Pinacoteca di Brera is expanding its exhibition space to include the nearby Palazzo Citterio in Via Brera 12.

This new exhibition space will house masterpieces by Modigliani, Boccioni, Carrà and Morandi as well as the Vitali collection and Pellizza da Volpedo’s “La Fiumana”. The inauguration on December 7, the day of Sant’Ambrogio, the patron saint of Milan, marked a historic moment for the city.

Milan aglow with lights for Christmas 2024: festivals, markets and timeless traditions

1. the Christmas-lit streets of the city

The streets of Milan, from the city center to the outskirts, are festively decorated during the Christmas season. Highlights include the stunning Dior Parfums Christmas tree in the Galleria, adorned with over 1,900 golden ornaments and a signature star, and festive fairy lights illuminating the ceiling of the Octagon, with the coat of arms of the city of Milan marking the city’s “living room”.

2. “La Madonna di San Simone” by Barocci in Palazzo Marino

Palazzo Marino’s annual Christmas exhibition will take place again in 2024 and will feature Federico Barocci’s Madonna and Child with Saints Simon and Jude (Madonna di San Simone). The exhibition, which can be seen in the Sala Alessi from December 4 to January 12, 2025, is free of charge. Guided tours through the exhibition offer visitors additional insights.

3. the 18th century Neapolitan crib in the Castello Sforzesco
The magnificent traditional Neapolitan nativity scene by Giuseppe Sammartino, a Neapolitan sculptor virtuoso from the 18th century, with figures and miniatures made of string and painted wood inspired by Neapolitan society of the time, is on display at Sforza Castle.

4. markets that spread Christmas magic

The festive markets in Milan give the Christmas season a special charm. The Oh Bej! Oh Bej! market takes place from December 5 to 8 near the Sforza Castle, where 230 stalls celebrate Milanese culture and St. Ambrose. You can visit the Christmas market in Piazza Duomo from December 1 until January 6: Visitors can explore 78 wooden huts, while special highlights include the “Letters to Santa” initiative, where toys chosen by children are on display, as well as free tours of the Duomo and its terraces for school groups.

5th Christmas for children on the day of St. Lucia

On December 13, Saint Lucia’s Day, children are at the center of Milan’s Christmas festivities during the candlelight walks. Municipal crèches, kindergartens and private daycare centers take part in the light parades, in which children carry candles and lights through their neighborhoods to bring festive joy to families and communities.

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About Milano&Partners – YesMilano

Milano&Partners is the official marketing agency of the city of Milan. It was founded by the Municipality of Milan and the Milano Monza Brianza Lodi Chamber of Commerce to attract tourism, talent and investment to the city. Its work focuses on three main areas: Promoting leisure and MICE tourism, attracting foreign direct investment and nurturing the metropolis’ innovation ecosystem, and supporting international students and talent who come to live in Milan.The YesMilano brand promotes an inclusive and sustainable city that is able to welcome and support younger generations.

yesmilano.it
@visit_milano on Instagram
@yesmilano on TikTok
@Milano&Partners on LinkedIn

Press contact:
KLEBER GROUP – Munich office
Silke Warnke-Rehm | Hannah Schnorbusch,
Tel: +49 (0) 89 – 28 70 230 0, +49 (0) 173 6778177
silke.warnke-rehm@klebergroup.com, hannah.schnorbusch@klebergroup.com

December 10, 2024

Beyond the Victoria Falls: Zambia’s water worlds

Lusaka/Frankfurt am Main, December 10, 2024 – From Lake Kariba to the Bangweulu Wetlands and Kalambo Falls – Zambia has a lot to offer beyond its natural wonder. Zambia is famous for its Victoria Falls, but the water-rich country offers much more than this natural wonder. Here are some of the best water adventures awaiting travelers:

Caribbean Sea, Southern Province

Lake Kariba, located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, is the largest man-made reservoir in the world. With a length of 226 kilometers and a width of up to 40 kilometers, it not only supplies both countries with electricity, but also supports a thriving fishing industry. Known for its breathtaking scenery and dramatic sunsets, it is a haven for numerous animal species, including elephants, hippos and crocodiles. The lake is a paradise for birdwatchers, also due to its proximity to Matusadona National Park. Lake Kariba is also very popular with anglers as it offers excellent opportunities to catch tilapia, tiger fish and bream. Visitors can also enjoy boat trips and cultural experiences in the local fishing communities. Accommodation tip: Eagles Rest Resort offers a comfortable way to explore the waters of Lake Kariba. The flagship Bateleur Houseboat is a 20-meter-long pontoon that accommodates up to 12 guests in three cabins. Prices for the Bateleur Houseboat are available on request. Further information: www.eaglesrestresort.net

Lake Tanganyika, Northern Province

Lake Tanganyika, the second deepest freshwater lake in the world at over 1400 meters, is a unique destination in the Great Rift Valley. It stretches across four countries – Zambia, Tanzania, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo – and is known for its biodiversity, clear waters and picturesque landscape. With over 300 species of fish, it is a dream destination for anglers. Notable fish species found here include the Tanganyika sardine and colorful cichlids. Lake Tanganyika is also home to wildlife such as hippos, crocodiles and a variety of bird species such as the African fish eagle. The main activities include world-class fishing, diving and kayaking. Accommodation tip: Located in Nsumbu National Park, Ndole Bay Lodge offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury beachfront chalets to a shady campsite. A stay at Ndole Bay Lodge costs from €151 per person per night with full board. Further information: www.ndolebaylodge.com

The Zambezi River, North-Western Province

The Zambezi, Africa’s fourth longest river, flows through six countries, carving its way through waterfalls and dramatic landscapes. Its ecosystems are home to a variety of wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles and elephants, as well as abundant birdlife. The river is best known for the Victoria Falls, but the less visited sections also provide fascinating experiences. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities on the water, from adrenaline-filled white water rafting in the Batoka Gorge to sunset cruises and canoe safaris. Fishing enthusiasts can try to catch the coveted tiger fish, while guided bush walks and cultural tours to local villages offer the opportunity to get to know Zambia’s rich natural and cultural heritage. Where to stay: Set on the tranquil banks of the Zambezi River, Tongabezi Lodge is a luxurious and intimate retreat that combines elegance with closeness to nature. The lodge offers six unique private cottages and five river cottages, all designed with open spaces, natural materials and views of the river. Adventure seekers can embark on excursions from the lodge to the Victoria Falls, just a short drive away. Tongabezi Lodge costs from €776 per person per night including full board and activities. Further information: https://greensafaris.com/

Bangweulu Lake, Northern Province

Lake Bangweulu in northern Zambia is an expansive wetland that encompasses open waters and swamps. Its name, which means “where the water meets the sky”, perfectly describes the relaxing environment of the lake. The Bangweulu Wetland is internationally renowned and a paradise for wildlife and birdwatchers alike. The area is particularly famous for the endangered shoebill stork, a rare and iconic bird species. Other notable bird species on the lake include wattled cranes, saddle-billed storks and marsh flycatchers. The surrounding wetlands are a haven for wildlife such as sitatunga antelope, lechwe and buffalo. Visitors can take part in activities such as boat safaris, fishing and guided walks through the wetlands and immerse themselves in this unique ecosystem. Accommodation tip: The unique Shoebill Island Camp is located in the heart of the Bangweulu Wetlands and offers comfortable tented accommodation with en-suite facilities. The camp’s location provides excellent opportunities for wildlife and bird watching right on the doorstep. Guests can go in search of the shoebill stork with experts or take peaceful boat trips through the wetlands to observe the flora and fauna of the area. A stay at Shoebill Island Camp costs from €620 per person per night, including full board and activities. Further information: www.africanparks.org/shoebill-island

Kalambo Falls, Northern Province

The impressive Kalambo Falls is the second highest uninterrupted waterfall in Africa and one of the most remote waterfalls in the country. The waterfall can be reached after a three-hour hike from Mbala in the Northern Province. The waterfall is an important archaeological site where Stone Age markings and remains have been found during excavations. Overnight tip: Kalambo Falls Lodge offers a unique stay that blends African and European influences. Built from local materials, the lodge has six stone chalets and the spacious Dubois Suite, all with views of the lake and en-suite bathrooms. The lodge offers access to activities such as bird watching, cultural exploration and water sports, making it an ideal retreat for adventure. A stay at Kalambo Falls Lodge costs from €143 per person per night including full board and some activities. Further information: www.kalambolodge.com.

Kundalila Falls, Central Province & Mutanda Falls, North West Province

The Kundalila Falls impress with their botanical diversity and swimming opportunities. Adventure seekers will find exciting activities such as kayaking and rafting in the Mutanda Falls.

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About Zambia

Considered one of the safest destinations in the world, Zambia is a beautiful country in Southern Africa and home to one of the seven natural wonders of the world, the Mosi-oa-Tunya Victoria Falls. Zambia offers travelers authentic and natural experiences with pristine wildlife, 20 national parks, 36 game reserves and 73 ethnic groups. Home to the world’s largest mammal migration, the world’s largest hippo population, the world’s largest man-made lake and Africa’s second largest wildebeest migration, Zambia offers unforgettable experiences exploring the real Africa. For more information visit www.zambia.travel

December 10, 2024