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Saturday, December 21, 2024 The highly anticipated Vie L’Ven Resort & Residences , a luxurious 280-room property poised to transform island living, has unveiled an exciting addition to its offerings—a uniquely designed multi-sports court experience. This state-of-the-art facility provides panoramic views of Indigo Bay and untouched natural reserves, elevating recreational opportunities in the Caribbean. Opening in 2028 , Vie L’Ven will feature cutting-edge sports facilities, including two pickleball courts, two tennis courts, and a padel court, setting new standards for luxury sports amenities in the region. To mark this milestone, Vie L’Ven has collaborated with Helios , the premium pickleball paddle brand, to create exclusive, limited-edition pickleball paddles. Inspired by the vibrant culture and energy of St. Maarten, these bespoke paddles are crafted with advanced carbon surface technology and available in limited quantities at the Vie L’Ven presentation gallery or as a gift with the purchase of a unit. Vie L’Ven’s residences offer spacious one- to four-bedroom layouts, ranging from approximately 620 to over 1,152 square feet (58 to over 107 square meters), with lock-off options extending up to 1,895 square feet (176 square meters). Each unit is designed with impeccable attention to detail and features unparalleled access to: Renowned Chef Alain Ducasse , celebrated for his 21 Michelin stars and three-star legacy, will helm the culinary offerings at Vie L’Ven. His signature restaurant and bar will serve as the centerpiece, blending the island’s diverse cultural heritage with its natural bounty. Two additional dining venues will further elevate the culinary experience, ensuring every meal is unforgettable. Developed by Altree Developments , a leader in international real estate, Vie L’Ven embodies a legacy of excellence. The project brings together globally recognized partners, including Studio Munge , HKS Architects , and Leading Hotels of the World , to craft a world-class destination. With sales managed by St. Maarten Sotheby’s International Realty , demand for Vie L’Ven residences is surging. Starting in the $900,000s USD, prices have seen upward adjustments due to limited availability. Special incentives are currently offered for purchases made between December 4, 2024, and January 15, 2025 , including: Experience Vie L’Ven through a virtual tour of the stunning Orient Suite and Rouge Suites . Discover your perfect island retreat and secure your place in this unparalleled destination. Incentives apply to select suites and are subject to change without notice. Prices and specifications are subject to change. Illustrations are artist’s concepts. E. & O.E. For more information, visit the Vie L’Ven presentation gallery and explore the future of luxury at Indigo Bay.Claims of professional tax levied on handloom units untrue, says R. GandhiLea Miller-Tooley hopped off a call to welcome the Baylor women’s basketball team to the Atlantis resort in the Bahamas, where 80-degree temperatures made it easy for the Bears to settle in on Paradise Island a week before Thanksgiving. About 5,000 miles west of the Caribbean nation, similar climes awaited Maui Invitational men's teams in Hawaii. They’ve often been greeted with leis, the traditional Hawaiian welcome of friendship. College basketball teams and fans look forward to this time of the year. The holiday week tournaments feature buzzworthy matchups and all-day TV coverage, sure, but there is a familiarity about them as they help ward off the November chill. For four decades, these sandy-beach getaways filled with basketball have become a beloved mainstay of the sport itself. “When you see (ESPN’s) ‘Feast Week’ of college basketball on TV, when you see the Battle 4 Atlantis on TV, you know college basketball is back,” said Miller-Tooley , the founder and organizer of the Battle 4 Atlantis men's and women's tournaments. “Because it’s a saturated time of the year with the NFL, college football and the NBA. But when you see these gorgeous events in these beautiful places, you realize, ‘Wow, hoops are back, let’s get excited.’” The Great Alaska Shootout was the trend-setting multiple-team event (MTE) nearly five decades ago. The brainchild of late Alaska-Anchorage coach Bob Rachal sought to raise his program’s profile by bringing in national-power programs, which could take advantage of NCAA rules allowing them to exceed the maximum allotment of regular-season games if they played the three-game tournament outside the contiguous 48 states. The first edition, named the Sea Wolf Classic, saw N.C. State beat Louisville 72-66 for the title on Nov. 26, 1978. The Maui Invitational followed in November 1984, borne from the buzz of NAIA program Chaminade’s shocking upset of top-ranked Virginia and 7-foot-4 star Ralph Sampson in Hawaii two years earlier. Events kept coming, with warm-weather locales getting in on the action. The Paradise Jam in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The Cancun Challenge in Mexico. The Cayman Islands Classic. The Jamaica Classic. The Myrtle Beach Invitational joining the Charleston Classic in South Carolina. Numerous tournaments in Florida. Some events have faded away like the Puerto Rico Tipoff and the Great Alaska Shootout, the latter in 2017 amid event competition and schools opting for warm-weather locales. Miller-Tooley’s push to build an MTE for Atlantis began as a December 2010 doubleheader with Georgia Tech beating Richmond and Virginia Tech beating Mississippi State in a prove-it moment for a tournament’s viability. It also required changing NCAA legislation to permit MTEs in the Bahamas. Approval came in March 2011; the first eight-team Atlantis men’s tournament followed in November. That tournament quickly earned marquee status with big-name fields, with Atlantis champions Villanova (2017) and Virginia (2018) later winning that season’s NCAA title. Games run in a ballroom-turned-arena at the resort, where players also check out massive swimming pools, water slides and inner-tube rapids surrounded by palm trees and the Atlantic Ocean. “It’s just the value of getting your passport stamped, that will never get old,” Miller-Tooley said. “Watching some of these kids, this may be their first and last time — and staff and families — that they ever travel outside the United States. ... You can see through these kids’ eyes that it’s really an unbelievable experience.” ACC Network analyst Luke Hancock knows that firsthand. His Louisville team finished second at Atlantis in 2012 and won that year’s later-vacated NCAA title, with Hancock as the Final Four's most outstanding player. “I remember (then-coach Rick Pitino) saying something to the effect of: ‘Some of you guys might never get this opportunity again. We’re staying in this unbelievable place, you’re doing it with people you love,’” Hancock said. “It was a business trip for us there at Thanksgiving, but he definitely had a tone of ‘We’ve got to enjoy this as well.’” Maui offers similar vibes, though 2024 could be a little different as Lahaina recovers from deadly 2023 wildfires that forced the event's relocation last year. North Carolina assistant coach Sean May played for the Tar Heels’ Maui winner in 2004 and was part of UNC’s staff for the 2016 champion, with both teams later winning the NCAA title. May said “you just feel the peacefulness” of the area — even while focusing on games — and savors memories of the team taking a boat out on the Pacific Ocean after title runs under now-retired Hall of Famer Roy Williams. “Teams like us, Dukes, UConns – you want to go to places that are very well-run,” May said. “Maui, Lea Miller with her group at the Battle 4 Atlantis, that’s what drives teams to come back because you know you’re going to get standard A-quality of not only the preparation but the tournament with the way it’s run. Everything is top-notch. And I think that brings guys back year after year.” That’s why Colorado coach Tad Boyle is so excited for the Buffaloes’ first Maui appearance since 2009. “We’ve been trying to get in the tournament since I got here,” said Boyle, now in his 15th season. And of course, that warm-weather setting sure doesn’t hurt. “If you talk about the Marquettes of the world, St. John’s, Providence — they don’t want that cold weather,” said NBA and college TV analyst Terrence Oglesby, who played for Clemson in the 2007 San Juan Invitational in Puerto Rico. “They’re going to have to deal with that all January and February. You might as well get a taste of what the sun feels like.” The men’s Baha Mar Championship in Nassau, Bahamas, got things rolling last week with No. 11 Tennessee routing No. 13 Baylor for the title. The week ahead could boast matchups befitting the Final Four, with teams having two weeks of action since any opening-night hiccups. “It’s a special kickoff to the college basketball season,” Oglesby said. “It’s just without the rust.” On the women’s side, Atlantis began its fourth eight-team women’s tournament Saturday with No. 16 North Carolina and No. 18 Baylor, while the nearby Baha Mar resort follows with two four-team women’s brackets that include No. 2 UConn, No. 7 LSU, No. 17 Mississippi and No. 20 N.C. State. Then come the men’s headliners. The Maui Invitational turns 40 as it opens Monday back in Lahaina . It features second-ranked and two-time reigning national champion UConn , No. 4 Auburn , No. 5 Iowa State and No. 10 North Carolina. The Battle 4 Atlantis opens its 13th men’s tournament Wednesday, topped by No. 3 Gonzaga, No. 16 Indiana and No. 17 Arizona. Michigan State Hall of Famer Tom Izzo is making his fourth trip to Maui, where he debuted as Jud Heathcote’s successor at the 1995 tournament. Izzo's Spartans have twice competed at Atlantis, last in 2021 . “They’re important because they give you something in November or December that is exciting,” Izzo said. Any drawbacks? “It’s a 10-hour flight,” he said of Hawaii. AP Sports Writers Pat Graham in Colorado and Larry Lage in Michigan contributed to this report. Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-basketball
Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE:LUV) Stock Position Raised by Daiwa Securities Group Inc.INVESTIGATION ALERT (NASDAQ: MU): Dicello Levitt LLP Is Investigating Investor Claims Against Micron Technology, Inc. And Encourages MU Investors With Losses To Contact The Firm
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Nasal Irrigation Market Set to Reach USD 1.9 Billion by 2034, Growing at a CAGR of 18.1% | Transparency Market ResearchOne person is dead after a single-vehicle crash on Highway 417 near Arnprior. Emergency crews responded to the crash in the eastbound lanes on the highway at Campbell Drive Thursday afternoon. Renfrew paramedics say the crash involved a single vehicle with one occupant inside. Ontario Provincial Police confirmed just after 9 p.m. that the driver of the vehicle was pronounced dead. The investigation is ongoing. Highway 417 is open for vehicles on Friday. Shopping Trends The Shopping Trends team is independent of the journalists at CTV News. We may earn a commission when you use our links to shop. Read about us. 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These LEGO Kits Are On Sale And Ready To Gift Black Friday May Be Over, But You Can Still Take Advantage Of These Amazing Sales On Amazon Canada It's Officially Travel Tuesday: Here Are The Best Deals On Flights, Hotels, And Vacations Ottawa Top Stories NEW THIS MORNING | Today is the CTV Morning Live Holiday Helpers Food Drive. Here's how you can help NEW THIS MORNING | What's happening in Ottawa this weekend: Dec. 13-15 BREAKING | 1 person killed in single-vehicle crash near Arnprior, Ont. Bus parked at OC Transpo depot destroyed by fire Local advocacy groups concerned about plan to crack down on homeless encampments Separate Ottawa crashes, including one with ambulance, send 2 to hospital Two additional arrests made in connection with Val-des-Monts death investigation Crews begin removing cargo from ship stuck in St. Lawrence River in eastern Ontario CTVNews.ca Top Stories Upcoming GST relief causes confusion for some small Canadian businesses A tax break for the holiday season will start this week, giving some Canadians relief on year-end shopping. But for small businesses, confusion around what applies for the GST relief has emerged. Ontario mulls U.S. booze ban as Trump brushes off Ford's threat to cut electricity Incoming U.S. president Donald Trump is brushing off Ontario's threat to restrict electricity exports in retaliation for sweeping tariffs on Canadian goods, as the province floats the idea of effectively barring sales of American alcohol. B.C. carjacking suspect sped across U.S. border before arrest, police say Authorities have arrested a suspect who allegedly carjacked a pickup truck in B.C.'s Lower Mainland then sped across the U.S. border, triggering a massive police response. Alberta premier says federal border plan coming Monday The much-anticipated federal plan to address issues at the Canada-U.S. border will be unveiled on Monday according to Alberta Premier Danielle Smith. Ottawa has sold its stake in Air Canada: sources Two senior federal government sources have confirmed to CTV News that the federal government has sold its stake in Air Canada. During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, the government purchased a six per cent stake in the airline for $500 million as part of a bailout package. Premiers disagree on whether Canada should cut off energy supply to U.S. if Trump moves ahead with tariffs Some of Canada's premiers appeared to disagree with Ontario Premier Doug Ford on his approach to retaliatory measures, less than a day after he threatened to cut off the province's energy supply to the U.S. if president-elect Donald Trump follows through on his threat of punishing tariffs. 'Very concerned': Crews search B.C. ski resort for missing man Police and rescue crews are searching for a man who was last seen boarding a ski lift at B.C.'s Sun Peaks Resort Tuesday. Man who set fires inside Calgary's municipal building lost testicle during arrest: ASIRT Two Calgary police officers have been cleared of any wrongdoing in an incident that saw a suspect lose a testicle after being shot with an anti-riot weapon. Blizzard warning shuts down large parts of midwestern Ontario It was a day to stay home, if you could, across much of midwestern Ontario due to weather. Atlantic Bass River, N.S., bridge partially collapses A bridge in Bass River, N.S., partially collapsed on Wednesday. The wooden structure was under construction when one side gave way and fell into the river. 'It felt like someone had really long nails': Owl attacks Halifax runner on trail An owl attacked a runner in a Halifax trail. Fire destroys lobster boat in Canada Creek, N.S. A fire on a lobster fishing boat in Canada Creek, N.S., took several hours to get under control, according to the local fire department. Toronto Man facing charges after allegedly stealing car with dog inside in Toronto A 39-year-old man is facing charges after allegedly stealing a vehicle with a dog inside it in Toronto on Wednesday. Car captured on video driving wrong way in downtown Toronto, striking multiple vehicles An elderly woman is in custody after a car was captured on video driving the wrong way in downtown Toronto Thursday, leaving behind a trail of damaged vehicles. 'That's fine,' Trump says in response to Premier Ford’s threat to cut off energy supply to U.S. President-elect Donald Trump is not worried about Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s threat to cut off energy supply to the U.S. as retaliation to the proposed 25 per cent tariff on Canadian goods. Montreal Judge to set trial date in February in Robert Miller sex crimes case A judge has adjourned the criminal case against Montreal billionaire Robert Miller after he was recently charged with new sexual offences involving a minor. 'We're seeing over 30 refusals every day': Montreal shelters struggling with winter weather underway With winter underway, women's homeless shelter Chez Doris has announced it will resume its 24/7 service and raise funds for a new day shelter at the historic Fulford building. Rust scores hat trick, Penguins strike six times in third to win 9-2 over Canadiens Bryan Rust scored a hat trick and added an assist as the Pittsburgh Penguins crushed the Montreal Canadiens 9-2 on Thursday night. Northern Ontario Elliot Lake fire crews continue to battle massive apartment fire Fire crews continue to battle an apartment building fire on Hirshhorn Avenue in Elliot Lake. Damage is extensive. Northern Ont. bank employee taken to hospital with serious injuries after shooting An employee at Northern Credit Union in Wawa, Ont., was taken to hospital with serious injuries after a shooter entered the branch and opened fire Thursday morning, the financial institution said in a statement. Stabbing in wooded area of Sudbury results in attempted murder charge Sudbury police have charged a man, 28, with attempted murder after a stabbing in wooded area off Leslie Street on Wednesday night. Windsor Windsor could get a helicopter to clamp down on border: Premier Ford A lot of chatter in Queen's Park today concerning relations between Canada and the United States – from border security to fighting tariffs with more tariffs. Shots fired in South Windsor, one injured An investigation is underway after the Windsor Police Service said multiple shots were fired at a group of people in South Windsor. 'You lose that sense of hope': Windsorite describes what it is like to be forced from a homeless encampment A Windsorite is describing what it is like to be forced from a homeless encampment. London Snow winding down, cold air persists, milder temperatures incoming Although we’re expecting snowsqualls to wind down on Friday afternoon, it’s going to be bitterly cold out there today. St. Thomas police investigating suspicious death The St. Thomas Police Service is investigating a suspicious death. London Ont.'s funny billboard guys take serious stand against renovictions A pair of real estate brokers are backing their words with time and money, after committing to retain a tenant living in a deeply affordable apartment above their future office space. Kitchener Guelph’s bike repair lady finally catches a ‘brake’ A Guelph woman who fought city hall and won in a bid to keep operating a bicycle repair service out of her garage, which benefits charity, scored another victory Thursday night. Conestoga College offering 160 employees early retirement Conestoga College is looking to cut costs by offering 160 of its full-time employees an early retirement package. Premier proposing legislation to clear encampments and target illegal drug use Ontario Premier Doug Ford is proposing stronger legislation for breaking up encampments. Barrie What police want you to know about a new sophisticated scam It’s no longer just phone calls or emails — fraudsters could now show up at your front door. Six arrested, loaded gun seized in Barrie drug bust Six people were arrested on Wednesday afternoon following an investigation into suspected drug trafficking in the north end of Barrie. Shotgun fired, tv stolen in home invasion, suspects at large Provincial police are seeking suspects allegedly involved in an armed home invasion and robbery in Everett over the weekend. Winnipeg 'I am a little anxious': Winnipeggers weigh in on proposed 5.95 per cent property tax hike Winnipeggers are mulling over a nearly six per cent property tax hike. Manitoba premier eyes list of possible retaliatory measures for U.S. tariffs Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew says his government is preparing a list of potential retaliatory measures if the United States government imposes new tariffs on Canadian goods. 'Many lives can be saved': One year since Earl Moberg disappeared, calls for change continue One year since Earl Moberg disappeared in Winnipeg, his family’s calls for changes to the silver alert system are on their way to Parliament Hill. Calgary ‘Very odd’: Death of young Calgary woman remains a mystery: police Calgary police are calling on the public to come forward with any information they may have following the death of a young woman found unconscious on a northeast pathway. Water main break snarls traffic along northbound Crowchild Trail A water main break during Thursday's evening rush hour brought motorists to a crawl on northbound Crowchild Trail in Calgary's southwest. Man who set fires inside Calgary's municipal building lost testicle during arrest: ASIRT Two Calgary police officers have been cleared of any wrongdoing in an incident that saw a suspect lose a testicle after being shot with an anti-riot weapon. Edmonton College remembers slain security guard as documents show criminal history of pair charged A vigil was held Thursday at Norquest College for a security guard who was killed at an Edmonton apartment building last Friday. Travis Vader, killer of Lyle and Marie McCann, denied day parole The man who killed an Alberta couple in 2010 has been denied day parole. Police warn public about a text messaging scam circulating in Alberta Vermilion RCMP issued a warning to the public about a text message scam involving speeding violation tickets. Regina 'We want to see some good hockey': Assiniboia rolls out red carpet for Red Wings after rink closure The Weyburn Red Wings are carrying on with their season, despite their hometown rink being temporarily shuttered, thanks to the generosity of those in Assiniboia, Sask. Sask. premier says collaboration needed to tackle border security and avoid Trump tariffs Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe says an “all hands-on-deck approach” is needed to address border security concerns to avoid U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's tariff threat on products from Canada and Mexico. Yorkton patient speaks out on city losing four doctors A cattle farmer near Yorkton has spoken out about the shortage of doctors in the Yorkton region after losing her family physician in the area. Saskatoon 'Gong show': Sask. emergency patients move into ambulatory unit at St. Paul's Hospital The emergency department at St. Paul's Hospital is so full its turning to the ambulatory unit. 'Not even our project': Saskatoon city spends more than $5 million on homelessness with no provincial commitment Saskatoon City Council held a special meeting Thursday morning to address homelessness years into the future, but frustration grew throughout the meeting as the province was absent from the conversation. Prince Albert police release photo of suspect in family/grandparent scam The Prince Albert Police Service (PAPS) is releasing a photo of a person of interest in connection with a family/grandparent emergency scam following multiple reports. Vancouver B.C. carjacking suspect sped across U.S. border before arrest, police say Authorities have arrested a suspect who allegedly carjacked a pickup truck in B.C.'s Lower Mainland then sped across the U.S. border, triggering a massive police response. Eby says 'nothing's off the table' in responding to Trump's tariff threats From the merry-looking set of a movie, where he was making a film-industry-related announcement, Premier David Eby came out firing with B.C.'s potential response to massive tarrifs threatened by Donald Trump. 5 injured after multi-vehicle crash on Hwy. 99 between Surrey, Delta Five people were hospitalized following a serious multi-vehicle crash that closed Highway 99 between Surrey and Delta during the Thursday evening rush hour. Vancouver Island Eby says 'nothing's off the table' in responding to Trump's tariff threats From the merry-looking set of a movie, where he was making a film-industry-related announcement, Premier David Eby came out firing with B.C.'s potential response to massive tarrifs threatened by Donald Trump. Team Canada athletes counting down to Invictus Games in Vancouver and Whistler In recent weeks, BC Place has hosted the Grey Cup and the biggest musical act on the planet – and soon, the opening ceremonies of the Invictus Games will take over the venue. Video shows B.C. commercial truck driver stumbling through roadside sobriety check New video sent to CTV News shows a commercial truck driver struggling to stay on his feet during a sobriety check Monday afternoon in Port Coquitlam after allegedly crashing into multiple parked cars. Kelowna Study of 2023 Okanagan wildfires recommends limiting development in high-risk areas A study into the devastating wildfires that struck British Columbia's Okanagan region in 2023 has recommended that government and industry limit development in high-fire-risk areas. Kelowna, B.C., to host the Memorial Cup in the spring of 2026 The Western Hockey League's Kelowna Rockets will host the Memorial Cup in the spring of 2026, the Canadian Hockey League said Wednesday. 545 vehicles impounded in 332 days: BC Highway Patrol pleads for drivers to slow down Mounties with the BC Highway Patrol in Kelowna say they've impounded more than 545 vehicles for excessive speed and aggressive driving so far this year. That works out to more than 1.6 per day. Stay Connected
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Overall crime declined but cybercrime rose exponentially in 2024 Andhra DGPTORONTO — If you look at the numbers, it’s obvious that the cruise industry has no intention of slowing down. According to CLIA’s 2024 State of the Cruise Industry Report , cruise travel is rebounding faster than other forms of travel and tourism post-pandemic, reaching 107% of 2019 levels in 2023 with 31.7 million passengers, compared to overall international arrivals, which are 12% lower than 2019. Passenger volume in 2023 from North America reached 18.1 million, up 6.5% from 2019. The intent to cruise among repeat and new cruisers remains strong, with 82% of those who have cruised before saying they will cruise again, and 71% of international travellers considering taking their first-ever cruise. Younger travellers are leading the way among those most enthusiastic about planning cruise holidays (Gen-X at 84% and Millennials at 81%), while families continue to show up for cruises, with 28% of cruise travellers sailing with 3-5 generations. Expedition and exploration are the fastest-growing cruise itineraries being sailed, with the number of passengers sailing on expeditions increasing 71% from 2019 to 2023. And the industry took enormous leaps in 2024 with seven CLIA-member cruise lines launching seven ships this year; another 56 ocean-going ships are already on the books for both member and non-member lines between 2024 and 2028. But the most promising news of all? Report findings highlight the value of travel advisors, with 73% of cruise travellers saying advisors have a meaningful impact on their decision to cruise. The future of cruising looks promising indeed, with 2025 looking particularly exciting, says Caroline Hay, General Manager, Cruise at Trevello Travel Group. In this exclusive interview, we ask Hay to summarize the year in cruising in 2024, what current trends are shaping the industry in 2025, and how travel advisors are influencing travellers to finally book that unforgettable cruise. 2023 was all about recovery for the cruise industry. What kind of year was it in 2024? “2024 was all about continued momentum and growth. It’s been the best year of cruise sales in Trevello’s 30-year history. The industry moved from bouncing back to levelling up, with ships at or near full capacity and demand surging across all segments. Our advisors have fully embraced these opportunities and played a significant role in driving this success. Once again, the cruise industry has proved its resilience and adaptability, firmly re-establishing itself as one of the most sought-after vacation choices.” What standout moments do you recall for the cruise industry in 2024? “2024 was full of standout moments that showcased the cruise industry’s growth and innovation. The launch of groundbreaking ships with cutting-edge technology and sustainability features captured travellers’ imaginations, while the rise of expedition cruising continued to generate excitement among travellers and advisors who are selling more unique itineraries than ever. “This year, however, was not without issues. The industry showed its resilience once again when itineraries were changed due to the geopolitical issues in the Middle East. However, alternatives were offered, which highlighted cruising’s ability to evolve, deliver exceptional experiences and thrive in the face of obstacles.” What role did travel agents play in cruising’s ongoing recovery in 2024? And how are they influencing cruise bookings for 2025? “Travel advisors are a key distribution outlet for our cruise partners, and the mutual support between cruise lines and advisors has never been stronger. When cruise companies continue to invest in trade sales and provide more resources for advisors, it shows how critical the travel advisor channel is for filling ships and connecting clients with the right products. Heading into 2025, we’re seeing even more cruise representatives entering the Canadian market, which will give advisors the tools and support they need to grow their cruise sales even further. “Advisors remain pivotal in promoting cruise vacations to both new and existing clients. They are playing a key role in shaping perceptions and driving demand across every segment and this will continue in the year ahead. There’s so much opportunity ahead, and I’m excited to see where it takes us.” To many, cruising and sustainability don’t really go hand in hand. But we’re seeing many cruise lines implement sustainability initiatives, particularly in 2024. What’s driving this new trend, and which cruise lines come to mind? “Sustainability is no longer just a trend – it’s how the industry operates and more improvements are being introduce year after year. Travellers want responsible tourism and cruise lines are delivering. We’ve seen big investments in LNG-powered ships, advanced waste management systems and partnerships with sustainable ports. Expedition companies like Lindblad, Quark and PONANT have been leaders in this space, but we’re also seeing impressive initiatives from Royal Caribbean Group, MSC, NCL, Windstar, Explora Journeys and Carnival Corporation, just to name a few. It’s exciting to see sustainability measures becoming a standard across the board, and it’s clear that cruise lines are committed to being part of the solution when it comes to responsible travel.” More and more cruise lines are accommodating solo cruisers. Why do you think cruising is ideal for solos? “Cruising is perfect for solo travelers because it offers the best of both worlds: the option to socialize or retreat to your own space as you please. Cruise lines are doing a fantastic job catering to this segment, with more solo-friendly cabins, better pricing and tailored programming. This is happening across all types of cruising, from river and expedition to luxury and traditional ocean itineraries. Solo travellers are no longer overlooked – they’re being welcomed with options that feel inclusive and designed just for them.” It used to be that cruising was geared towards an older clientele, but according to trend reports, 2024 saw many young cruisers book for the first time. What would you attribute this shift to? “It’s been amazing to see younger travellers embracing cruising. Social media has been a game-changer – just search ‘cruise’ on TikTok, and you’ll see why. Cruises are being showcased as adventurous, Instagram-worthy and fun. Cruise lines have done a great job tailoring their offerings to younger audiences with wellness programs, bold excursions and nightlife that feels fresh and exciting. Younger travellers are all about experiences, and cruising delivers exactly that. It’s not just a vacation – it’s an experience they can share and relive through their social platforms.” What other new trends have you noticed in 2024 that are shaping the year ahead? “One of the biggest trends we’ve seen at Trevello is the growing number of travel advisors introducing cruises to clients who previously only booked land vacations. The incredible value of a cruise vacation is hard to pass up, and this shift has brought new demographics into the market, fueling growth across all segments. “Another key trend is the seamless integration of technology onboard ships. High-speed Starlink internet is now widely available, making it easier than ever for remote workers to stay connected, which has opened cruising to a new audience of digital nomads blending work and leisure. This ‘work from anywhere’ flexibility, combined with longer, more immersive itineraries, is drawing younger professionals to cruising like never before.” What’s your forecast for the cruise industry in 2025? “Based on our forward booking trends, 2025 is shaping up to be another incredible sales year for Trevello’s cruise business. From a greater industry we’re seeing clients shifting away from traditional vacations and looking for curated, meaningful experiences, which will continue to drive significant growth in luxury and expedition cruising. These are no longer niche segments – they’re becoming central to what many travellers want: immersive journeys that connect them to the world in authentic and impactful ways. “The new ships launching in 2025 reflect just how far the industry has come. These aren’t just ships; they’re destinations in their own right, in all shapes and sizes. They’re being designed with sustainability, technology and personalization at their core, offering something for everyone, from solo travellers to multi-generational families to those seeking intimate vacation options. What’s exciting is how travel advisors are leading this shift. They’re showing clients that cruising isn’t just an alternative to land vacations – it’s a better way to travel, with more variety, value, and convenience.”Citigroup Inc. Grows Stock Position in Nuvalent, Inc. (NASDAQ:NUVL)
Nvidia’s Future Looks Brighter with Blackwell GPUs Morgan Stanley continues to regard Nvidia as a standout in the technology sector, maintaining its “Top Pick” status with an “Overweight” rating and a $166 price target. The firm is focusing on the immense demand for Nvidia’s upcoming Blackwell GPU as a primary growth driver, setting aside any temporary setbacks the company might face. Under the guidance of Joseph Moore, Morgan Stanley’s insights suggest that Nvidia’s current issues are fleeting and have a negligible impact on its long-term success. Moore anticipates that once the Blackwell GPUs gain market momentum by late 2025, they will dominate industry discussions due to their significant potential to boost Nvidia’s revenues. This aligns with data from Trendforce, which forecasts booming sales for Nvidia during the second and third quarters, coinciding with expectations for increased Blackwell GPU production in early 2025. Morgan Stanley projects Nvidia’s revenue to surge by 44.1% in 2025, outpacing competitors such as Broadcom and AMD. Adding to the excitement, Nvidia is set to make a notable appearance at the Consumer Electronics Show in January, where CEO Jensen Huang will deliver a keynote address. Analysts anticipate Nvidia will utilize this platform to showcase the expected high demand for Blackwell GPUs, further asserting its market dominance. Morgan Stanley remains optimistic about easing supply constraints by mid-2025, positioning Nvidia to fully capitalize on the Blackwell launch and further consolidate its leadership in the GPU arena. Unveiling Nvidia’s Blackwell GPUs: A Game-Changer on the Horizon In the competitive landscape of advanced computing technology, Nvidia continues to assert its dominance with the upcoming release of the Blackwell GPUs. Industry analysts are predicting that these GPUs will drive significant growth and innovation within the sector. Specifications and Innovations of Blackwell GPUs While specific details of the Blackwell architecture remain under wraps, experts suggest that these GPUs will feature cutting-edge advancements in processing power, energy efficiency, and AI acceleration capabilities. The anticipated improvements are expected to set new industry benchmarks, appealing especially to sectors that demand high-performance computing, including gaming, artificial intelligence, and data centers. Predictions: Market Impact and Growth Morgan Stanley and Trendforce project strong market demand for the Blackwell GPUs, pinpointing late 2025 as the period when these products will hit critical market momentum. With projections of Nvidia’s revenue increasing by an impressive 44.1% in 2025, Blackwell GPUs are poised to significantly outpace competitors like Broadcom and AMD. Use Cases and Compatibility The Blackwell GPUs are anticipated to have broad compatibility with various systems, enhancing their appeal across multiple industries. Their use cases are expected to expand into fields such as virtual reality, machine learning, and autonomous vehicles, where high computational power is crucial. How Nvidia Plans to Maintain Leadership Nvidia’s strategy to maintain its leadership involves aggressively addressing supply chain constraints and leveraging key industry events, like the upcoming Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in January, where CEO Jensen Huang is slated to showcase the anticipated demand and innovations of the Blackwell GPUs. This event is crucial for highlighting Nvidia’s forward-thinking approach and technological prowess. Enhancing Sustainability in Tech A noteworthy aspect of Nvidia’s new line is its focus on sustainability. Industry insiders anticipate that the Blackwell GPUs will incorporate energy-efficient designs, contributing to reducing the overall carbon footprint of high-performance computing solutions. Market Analysis As the demand for more powerful and efficient GPUs grows, Nvidia is strategically positioned to capitalize on this trend with their Blackwell release. The company’s strong market presence and strategic foresight appear well-aligned to lead the industry in this new era of GPU technology. For more information on Nvidia and its innovations, visit the official Nvidia website . By focusing on these upcoming innovations and strategies, Nvidia aims to solidify its leader status in the technology market and meet the evolving needs of its consumers.Keir Starmer hopes to visit Donald Trump in America within a month of the new US President taking officeANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — Anaheim Ducks forward Trevor Zegras will be out for six weeks after undergoing surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee. Zegras had surgery Thursday, the team announced. Zegras was injured last week on a fairly innocent-looking play during the Ducks' 4-1 loss to Vegas in Anaheim. Zegras and William Karlsson only briefly got their skates and stick blades entangled, but Zegras needed help to get off the ice after taking a fall. Zegras' torn meniscus is his third major injury in just over a year, although a torn meniscus is likely a fortunate outcome for a knee injury that could have been much worse. He was limited to 31 games last season by two injury setbacks, including a broken ankle that required surgery. Zegras has four goals and six assists in 24 games this season for Anaheim, which had lost four straight heading into its road game against Toronto on Thursday night. The Ducks surprisingly activated forward Robby Fabbri from injured reserve before they faced the Maple Leafs. Fabbri had arthroscopic knee surgery on Nov. 15 and is progressing much faster than his initial predicted timeline of six to eight weeks. AP NHL: https://apnews.com/NHL
Share Tweet Share Share Email SINGAPORE, SG – December 20, 2024 – Colle AI (COLLE), the multichain AI-powered NFT platform, announces its integration with Sora AI to revolutionize content creation within the NFT landscape. This collaboration unlocks new levels of realism, empowering creators to produce dynamic, lifelike assets across multiple blockchains. The integration marks a significant step in enhancing the creative experience for NFT artists and collectors alike. Sora AI, known for its advanced generative capabilities, brings photorealistic and highly detailed content generation to Colle AI’s platform. With Sora AI’s technology, Colle AI users can now create NFTs that stand out for their precision and immersive quality. This synergy offers boundless creative possibilities, expanding the potential for AI-powered digital art on a multichain scale. Colle AI’s multichain approach enables seamless integration of these realistic NFTs across various blockchain networks, enhancing accessibility and scalability for users. By integrating Sora AI, Colle AI continues to solidify its position as a pioneering platform in the AI and Web3 space. This partnership supports the creation of diverse NFT assets that appeal to a broader market, including gaming, virtual worlds, and digital collectibles. The integration of Sora AI into Colle AI aligns with the platform’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of AI-driven NFT creation. This collaboration underscores Colle AI’s vision to provide cutting-edge tools that empower creators to produce innovative, high-quality digital assets. With Sora AI, the future of NFT creation becomes more immersive and accessible than ever before. About Colle AI Colle AI leverages AI technology to simplify the NFT creation process, empowering artists and creators to easily transform their ideas into digital assets. The platform aims to make NFT creation more accessible, fostering innovation in the digital art space. Social Media: Twitter Instagram Related Items: Share Tweet Share Share Email Comments