Jeddah Tower, a neo-futuristic marvel in Saudi Arabia, aims to dethrone Burj Khalifa as the tallest skyscraper, redefining the skyline with its monumental design.

Burj Khalifa, the Empire State Building, what do these iconic structures have in common? They have both held the prestigious title of the world’s tallest skyscraper. Soon, a new marvel is poised to take over this title – Jeddah Tower, a neo-futuristic landmark planned in Saudi Arabia.

Designed by the renowned Adrian Smith and Gordon Gill of Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture, Jeddah Tower is set to reach an astounding height of 3,281 feet. Scheduled for completion in the next four to five years, this colossal structure will overshadow the Statue of Liberty by nearly eleven times. The design, described by Smith and Gill, draws inspiration from Saudi Arabian symbolism, representing the kingdom’s future growth with its sleek, asymmetrical form that echoes the elegance of palm fronds reaching towards the sky.

Situated in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, the tower will become a prominent feature of the city’s skyline, symbolizing progress and innovation. Jeddah, the second-largest city in the country, borders the Red Sea and boasts architectural gems like the Penang Floating Mosque and the historic Al Balad district.

Jeddah Tower’s design embraces a neo-futuristic aesthetic, marked by avant-garde elements and advanced technology. Renderings depict a sleek, tapering tower inspired by the graceful curves of palm fronds native to the region.

Construction of Jeddah Tower began in 2013 but faced interruptions, notably in 2018 due to issues within the Binladin Group, the project’s contractor. The COVID-19 pandemic further delayed progress. However, in September 2023, reports confirmed that construction had resumed.

The Jeddah Economic Company (JEC), responsible for the project, has announced that construction is back on track, aiming for completion in the next four to five years. Despite past setbacks, JEC is actively seeking contractors and expects to finalize selections soon.

At the time of the pause, roughly one-third of Jeddah Tower had been completed. Once finished, it will soar to a height of 3,281 feet, surpassing Burj Khalifa by about 564 feet.

Jeddah Tower will function as a mixed-use complex, incorporating residential, commercial, and office spaces. Additionally, it will feature the world’s highest observation deck, a Four Seasons hotel, and a vast outdoor balcony initially designed as a helipad.

Ryanair launches a 48-hour flash sale today, offering flights from €12.99 for May travel. Explore stunning destinations and book by midnight on May 17 at ryanair.com.

Ryanair, the leading airline in Europe, announced a special 48-hour flash sale today (May 16), featuring flights starting at only €12.99 for travel during May.

This time-limited offer includes an impressive array of stunning destinations within Ryanair’s extensive network. Whether you’re seeking sun-soaked retreats, dynamic city escapes, or off-the-beaten-path treasures, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss out on the chance to discover new places or revisit beloved European cities. Visit ryanair.com and book your tickets before midnight on Friday (May 17) to take advantage of these exceptional low fares.

Ryanair’s Head of Comms, Jade Kirwan said:
“Ryanair’s €12.99 flash sale is back by popular demand – but for 48hrs only. With fares this good, there really is no
excuse not to book a trip away. Whether you’re seeking sun, sea, or adventure you’re sure to find it across Ryanair’s
industry leading network of sun and city break destinations, including longstanding hotspots like Marrakesh, Paris,
London, Malaga, and Barcelona, as well as new favourites like Rome, Cologne, Tangier and Budapest.
Ryanair’s fantastic flash sale fares are available to book now on ryanair.com until midnight on Friday, 17 May.”

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) anticipates screening a record number of travelers this summer season.

The summer travel period, as defined by the TSA, starts on Memorial Day weekend and extends through Labor Day.

The busiest travel day is predicted to be Friday, May 24, with nearly three million passengers expected.

Between May 23 and May 29, over 18 million passengers and crew members are anticipated to pass through checkpoints, reflecting a 6.4% increase in volume compared to the same period last year.

To ensure a smooth travel experience, the TSA offers the following tips:

• If traveling with a firearm, pack it unloaded in a hard-sided case in your checked baggage and declare it to the airline during check-in.
• Place liquids in containers smaller than 3.4 ounces in a quart-sized bag within your checked luggage.
• Ensure you have a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification.
• For TSA PreCheck members, confirm your Known Traveler Number (KTN) is included in your reservation. Those interested in joining PreCheck can enroll online.
• Plan ahead to allow sufficient time for parking or returning rental cars, taking shuttles if necessary, checking in, dropping off bags, and preparing for security screening.
• For any questions or assistance, contact the TSA by texting 275-872 or calling the TSA Contact Center at 866-289-9673.

The Deputy Minister of Tourism, Fish Mahlalela, emphasizes that it’s time for Africa to showcase its full potential to the world.

Mahlalela delivered the keynote address at the Business Opportunity Networking Day (BONDay) during Africa’s Travel Indaba 2024 (ATI), laying the groundwork for the ATI event scheduled to commence tomorrow and run through Thursday at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention Centre (ICC) in Durban.

“It is up to us as Africans to open the world’s eyes to what we have to offer as a continent and take charge of the narrative because only when we are proactive, will we control our destiny,” he said.

The Africa’s Travel Indaba (ATI) presents a diverse range of Africa’s premier tourism offerings, drawing African exhibitors, as well as international and local buyers and media representatives from around the globe.

He said: “There is no opportune time to do that than at Africa’s Travel Indaba, which takes place during May, which significantly, is also Africa Month. Today, we gather not merely as representatives of businesses, but as catalysts of change, and architects of a future defined by co-operation and collective success.”

Mahlalela added that transformation is important, especially in the South African economy for tourism to thrive. “Transformation becomes a necessity in South Africa because there is inequality and poverty,” says Mahlalela. 

Mahlalela further noted that despite existing challenges, progress is evident through the development of small businesses and the promotion of tourist visits to township enterprises.

Following Deputy Minister Mahlalela’s speech, a panel of prominent entrepreneurs engaged in a discussion. South Africa continues to serve as the gateway to the continent.

The CEO of Motsamayi Tourism Group, Jerry Mabena, said the Motsamayi Tourism Group prides itself in building iconic destinations such as the Kruger Shalati – The train on the Bridge and the Nelson Mandela house, where he stayed from 1992 to 1998 in Gauteng, which has been converted into a hotel. 

“We’ve just a finished a camp in Dinokeng, outside of Johannesburg, which is a pop-up hotel. We put it up for four nights and after that we pull it down,” he said. 

South African Tourism CEO, Nombulelo Guliwe, said tourism is a catalyst for job creation and it is important for everyone in the ecosystem to be aware of the role they play. 

She participated as one of the panelists in a discussion titled “Driving Local Economies Through the Tourism Value Chain.”

“Platforms like Africa’s Travel Indaba and other South African Tourism-owned trade shows as well as those we participate in are important for creating an enabling environment for people in the sector to have access to information,” said Guliwe. 

Panelist Zinhle Mqadi, at the helm of Max’s Lifestyle, the uMlazi township shisanyama evolved into an upscale dining establishment, highlighted their partnership with fellow local service providers in both the township and the city. Together, they aim to provide a holistic township tourism experience extending beyond mere visits to a shisanyama.

In the realm of South African property development, Brian Mpono, CEO of Oceans Mhlanga Development, highlighted their involvement with counterparts across the continent. Other African nations have sought their assistance in constructing infrastructure akin to the Oceans Mall in uMhlanga.

During the session on “The Future of Travel Through the Eyes of the Youth,” three young travelers shared their journeys of turning their passion for travel into successful ventures while exploring various corners of the continent.

Acacia Denison and Michael Monk, founders of Yeti the Van, recounted their experiences visiting over 100 campsites across South Africa in their self-converted van, which also serves as their residence.

Monk said they generate income through brand placement. “We offer brands diversity because we are at a new location all the time. We also cover establishments. They pay for us to travel. We put ideas into their heads when we pitch because they might not be thinking about their brands that way,” he said. 

Denison and Monk, who are partners both in travel and in life, have been exploring off the beaten path for the last three years.

Katchie Nzama, a solo adventurer, has ventured through 35 African nations. Her journey commenced as a response to feeling constrained by the corporate world. Setting off on a Cape to Cairo expedition, she hasn’t glanced back in the ten years since.

“The travelling community is huge and people are always excited to meet someone from South Africa. When I arrive in a country, I go to the South African embassy and get emergency contact details and let them know that I am travelling solo. I am a digital content creator and a travel writer,” said Nzama.

During a conversation titled “Advancements in Airlift Across Africa,” Hamish Erskine, CEO of Dube TradePort, reflected on the 14-year trajectory since its establishment in 2006.

He stressed the importance of prioritising cargo transport to sustain operational growth. “Cargo remains the lifeblood of our operations, driving our focus and innovations,” he said.

Mpumi Mpofu, the CEO of Airports Company South Africa, echoed Erskine’s sentiments, underlining the significance of intra-African tourism. “Without robust travel networks within the continent, the potential for growth remains stunted,” she remarked. 

She offered insights into the company’s resilience following the events of 2019, highlighting impressive statistics of 54 million passengers traveling through their global airport network.

She commended the pivotal role played by airports such as OR Tambo International and King Shaka International in driving this expansion.

This summer, soccer enthusiasts aboard MSC Cruises’ vessels in Europe are in for a treat as they will have the opportunity to catch all the live action of the highly anticipated European soccer cup. This prestigious tournament, featuring twenty-four European nations vying for victory, is held once every four years and is poised to be one of the standout sporting events of the year.

Between June 14 and July 14, matches from the European soccer cup will be broadcasted live on MSC Cruises’ ships sailing in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe. With the 2020 final alone garnering over 300 million viewers worldwide, it’s evident that this competition holds immense significance on the global soccer stage.

Guests aboard MSC Cruises will have various options to enjoy the games, from watching in selected bars and lounges to experiencing the thrill of live matches on the pool deck or within the vibrant ambiance of a dedicated sports bar. Moreover, some ships will elevate the experience further by offering a tailored program of tournament-themed activities. These include engaging in table soccer games, participating in penalty shoot-out challenges, testing soccer knowledge in trivia competitions, and even getting creative by designing their own team shirts for a chance to win exciting prizes.

MSC Cruises is enhancing its footprint at Port Canaveral by introducing a second vessel, enriching the array of 7-night voyages and shorter excursions to The Bahamas. Today, the company disclosed its plans for MSC Grandiosa to commence operations from the Central Florida port in December 2025, joining the beloved MSC Seashore.

The addition of a second vessel at Port Canaveral will significantly broaden the options available to MSC Cruises’ passengers. MSC Grandiosa will present alternating 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean routes, while MSC Seashore will continue to offer 3- and 4-night journeys to Nassau and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, the company’s exclusive island retreat in The Bahamas.

Rubén A. Rodríguez, President, MSC Cruises USA, said: “The Winter 2025-2026 season will mark our largest presence in the U.S. to date, and our expansion at Port Canaveral is a big part of that. Ever since we started sailing from Port Canaveral in 2021, our guests have told us they love how convenient that makes it to experience MSC Cruises’ unique international flavor. We know people sailing from Central Florida want options, and we’re delighted to offer them two of our most modern and glamorous ships with itineraries that will appeal to everyone from first-time to seasoned cruisers.”

Itinerary Highlights:

MSC Grandiosa: 7-Night Routes
Eastern Caribbean: Stops at Nassau (The Bahamas), Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve (The Bahamas), Puerto Plata (Dominican Republic), San Juan (Puerto Rico), and Charlotte Amalie (US Virgin Islands)
Western Caribbean: Visits Nassau (The Bahamas), Cozumel (Mexico), Costa Maya (Mexico), George Town (Cayman Islands), Montego Bay (Jamaica), Falmouth (Jamaica), and Belize City (Belize)
MSC Seashore: 3- and 4-Night Routes
Stops at Nassau and Ocean Cay, with select itineraries offering an additional day at sea

Capt. John Murray, CEO, Port Canaveral, said: “We are honored that MSC Cruises chose Port Canaveral for the North American debut of their magnificent MSC Grandiosa. We are so proud of our cruise partner and their tremendous growth in the United States. Expanding their homeport fleet at Port Canaveral underscores their confidence in our partnership and shared commitment to success. We look forward to welcoming all of their valued cruise guests to our beautiful port.”

MSC Grandiosa, a flagship of MSC Cruises’ Meraviglia-plus class fleet, is set to make waves as the largest vessel to call Port Canaveral home upon her arrival next year. Boasting a plethora of amenities, here are some standout features:

• Extending over 1,094 feet in length and 141 feet in width
• Offering 2,421 well-appointed staterooms
• Showcasing a culinary journey with 10 distinct restaurants, including the acclaimed Butcher’s Cut steakhouse, Hola! Tacos & Cantina, Kaito Sushi, Kaito Tepanyaki, and L’Atelier Bistrot
• Providing ample aquatic delights with five pools and nine inviting hot tubs, along with the exhilarating Wild Forest Aquapark
• Elevating the luxury experience with an enhanced MSC Yacht Club and the expansive MSC Aurea Spa
• Entertaining guests with a state-of-the-art Broadway-style theater and the mesmerizing Carousel Lounge for nightly performances
• Featuring the iconic 323-foot-long Galleria Grandiosa promenade adorned with a stunning LED sky screen

Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve:

Nestled in The Bahamas, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve epitomizes MSC Cruises’ commitment to marine conservation and ecological stewardship. Spread across more than two miles of pristine coastline and encompassing eight breathtaking beaches, this idyllic sanctuary invites guests to immerse themselves in the natural splendor of the Bahamas. From sun-soaked shores to crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, Ocean Cay offers endless opportunities for relaxation and adventure alike. Moreover, as part of MSC Foundation’s Super Coral Program, the island serves as a hub for coral reef restoration efforts and conservation initiatives worldwide.

In the coming months, MSC Cruises will unveil a series of enhancements to Ocean Cay, including expanded excursion centers, additional dining options, and upgraded swimming areas. For MSC Yacht Club guests, the experience will be further elevated with an expanded Ocean House bar and restaurant, ensuring unparalleled luxury and comfort throughout their voyage.

MSC Yacht Club:

For discerning travelers seeking the epitome of luxury, the MSC Yacht Club delivers an exclusive haven aboard every sailing from Port Canaveral. With personalized services, lavish suite accommodations, and private facilities such as a dedicated pool and sundeck, guests are pampered from the moment they embark. Whether indulging in gourmet dining, unwinding in stylish lounges, or enjoying access to the ship’s myriad of amenities, the MSC Yacht Club promises an unparalleled level of relaxation and rejuvenation throughout the journey.