Noah Davis January 24–April 26, 2026 At The Philadelphia Museum Of Art

The Philadelphia Art Museum announces a landmark survey of the late American artist Noah Davis (1983–2015). Bringing together over 60 works, this exhibition will chart Davis’s practice across painting, sculpture, works on paper, and curating, marking the final stop on an international tour organized with DAS MINSK in Potsdam, the Barbican in London, and the Hammer Museum in Los Angeles.

Davis’s work captures the intricacies of Black life with tenderness and depth, linking personal and collective narratives in ways that profoundly resonate with our times. Arranged chronologically, the exhibition will feature work made from 2007 until his untimely death in 2015, addressing a wide range of subjects, including politics, family histories, mythology, race, architecture, and visual culture. His masterfully constructed paintings—which fluidly move between styles and techniques to alternately depict dreamlike, joyful, melancholic, and even surreal scenes—will be shown alongside his experimental sculptures and works on paper that speak to the conceptual foundations of Davis’s practice.

Davis was deeply invested in the idea that art should be accessible to all. In 2012, he and his wife, fellow artist Karon Davis, cofounded the Underground Museum in the historically Black and Latinx neighborhood of Arlington Heights, Los Angeles. They converted four storefronts into a free cultural center, transforming the parking lot into a garden planted with purple flowers. For a period, Davis used the Underground Museum as a studio, as well as a site for residencies, and an exhibition space, eventually entering into a partnership with the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) to lend works from their collection starting in 2014. By the time of his death, Davis had planned 18 exhibitions for the Underground Museum using MOCA’s collection—the majority of which remain unrealized— motivated by the desire to “change the way people view art, the way they buy art, the way they make art.”

Highlights from the exhibition will include 40 Acres and a Unicorn (2007), a striking blend of fantasy and history; Isis (2009), a portrait of his wife Karon depicted as the Egyptian goddess; Savage Wilds (2012), a series in which Davis cast his gaze upon the complex portrayals of Black subjects on daytime television; and the renowned Pueblo del Rio series (2014), paintings that reimagined one of the oldest, largest, and most architecturally significant public housing developments in Los Angeles.

The exhibition is curated by Eleanor Nairne, Keith L. and Katherine Sachs Curator for Modern and Contemporary Art and Head of Department at the Philadelphia Art Museum and former Barbican Senior Curator, and Wells Fray-Smith, Curator, Barbican.

“On every encounter, I am struck again by the potency of Noah Davis’s work and it is an honor to share his practice with audiences in Philadelphia,” said Nairne. “Given how voraciously he drew from art history, I like to think that he would have been glad to be in the rich company of the museum’s collections.”

The exhibition will be accompanied by an illustrated catalog of essays and archival material copublished by Prestel, with original texts by Tina M. Campt, Wells Fray-Smith, Paola Malavassi, Eleanor Nairne, and Claudia Rankine. Additional contributors include Dawoud Bey, T. J. Clark, Francesco Clemente, Karon Davis, Marlene Dumas, Helen Molesworth, and Jason Moran.

About Noah Davis

Born in Seattle, Washington, in 1983, Davis had his first painting studio in high school. He briefly studied film and conceptual art at Cooper Union in New York before leaving to pursue his own artistic education. By 2004 he had moved to Los Angeles and was working at the bookshop Art Catalogues, where he could feed his appetite for a wide-reaching history of culture and, in particular, painting. Drawing on the legacy of artists ranging from Caspar David Friedrich to Mark Rothko, Romare Bearden to Kerry James Marshall, he developed a distinctive painterly style—one that engaged deeply with both the histories of representation and abstraction. Davis blended historical and contemporary source material to create images of Black life that are unbound by a specific time or place. Davis passed away in 2015 at age 32 from a rare form of cancer.

About the Philadelphia Art Museum

The Philadelphia Art Museum is a national and international destination for art, but first, we are Philadelphia’s art museum—for all of the many diverse communities of the city. Through our collections, exhibitions, events, educational activities, celebrations, and more, the museum is a storyteller, and we welcome everyone to be part of the story—our doors are wide open. To learn more, go to visitpham.org. Instagram / Facebook / X / Threads / YouTube / TikTok: @visitpham

Travelore News: Ritz Carlton Owner Selling NYC And Washington D.C. Properties

The owner of several Ritz‑Carlton properties is moving ahead with plans to sell its flagship hotels in New York City and Washington, D.C., marking one of the most notable luxury‑hotel shakeups of the year.

Ritz Carlton Central Park

Real estate investment firm Westbrook Partners has already completed the sale of The Ritz‑Carlton New York, Central Park to Miami‑based hospitality investor Gencom. Meanwhile, the firm is close to finalizing a deal to sell The Ritz‑Carlton Washington, D.C. to Trinity Investments, another major player in high‑end hotel acquisitions.

The transactions highlight continued investor appetite for luxury urban hotels, even as the broader commercial real estate market faces pressure. Ritz‑Carlton will continue to manage both properties under long‑term agreements, meaning guests should expect brand continuity despite the ownership change.

Industry analysts say the sales reflect a strategic portfolio shift by Westbrook and a growing trend of capital flowing into iconic, well‑located hospitality assets

Did You Know There Is A Full-Size Parthenon In Nashville, Tennessee?

We all know that the Parthenon is Greece’s most iconic monument, but imagine stumbling upon this majestic site, not amidst the ancient ruins of Athens, Greece but in the vibrant heart of Nashville, Tennessee.

The Nashville Parthenon, a tribute to classical Greek architecture in Centennial Park, Nashville, Tennessee. Credit: John LaGuardia, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0

This unexpected twist is no miracle but a full-scale, meticulously crafted replica of one of history’s most iconic structures. The Nashville Parthenon lies at the heart of the city’s centennial park. It is a true testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage and the real proof of its nickname, “the Athens of the South.”

Originally constructed for the Tennessee Centennial Exposition in 1897, the replica of the Parthenon bridges the ancient with the modern world. However, it is more than that. It is an active link that connects the two sides of the Atlantic, attesting the friendship of the Americans and Greeks to this day. This is the reason why it is worth exploring the history, architectural elements, and cultural impact of this US landmark that brings a glimpse of Greece to the heart of Tennessee.

The origins of Nashville’s Parthenon, a centennial monument

This promotional calendar from 1897 featured various buildings each month, including this colorful drawing of the Parthenon. Tennessee Centennial Exposition. Credit- Saraeileen89 – CC BY-SA 40

The Nashville Parthenon’s story began in 1897. The monument was originally constructed as a temporary feature for the Tennessee Centennial Exposition. It was the time when Tennessee was celebrating the 100th anniversary of its entry to the Union. The purpose of this replica was to embody Nashville’s cultural identity as the “Athens of the South.”

This was a clear nod to the city’s commitment and dedication to education, art, and philosophy. The monument of Nashville was initially built from plaster, wood, and brick. This, of course, comes as a stark contrast to the original Parthenon that dominates the skyline of Athens, Greece.

The ancient Greeks built the original Parthenon at the top of the Acropolis using the finest Greek marble, and it has endured centuries of wear. Captivating the public’s imagination and soon becoming an iconic landmark of the city, it was decided that the structure would be reconstructed in concrete in Nashville, as so happened in the 1920s. This ensured that it would stay there as a monument to Classical beauty and an educational tool for future generations.

Architectural marvels of Nashville’s Parthenon, a tribute to Greece

Its creators aimed to faithfully re-create its ancient predecessor. This is why the Nashville Parthenon features detailed replicas of the original Greek sculptures and designs. From the Doric columns that go around the building to the intricate friezes that adorn its facade, every aspect of the architecture aims to offer an authentic experience of Greek harmony and beauty.

For this reason, the Parthenon in Nashville is a building that serves two main goals. It is not only a testament to ancient Greece but also an example of the American craftsmanship and architectural knowledge of the late 19th century. This is what makes this replica unique—the blend of ancient inspiration with modern techniques of execution.

The majestic Athena Parthenos statue

Statue of Greek goddess Athena in Nashville’s Parthenon. Credit: wikimedia commons / Michael Rivera CC BY 4.0

Unlike the real ruins of the Parthenon in Greece, central to Nashville’s replica is the Athena Parthenos statue. This is a towering re-creation of Phidias‘ original masterpiece that was dominating the temple during ancient times. Standing at 42 feet (12.8 meters) in height, the modern Athena statue was crafted meticulously. Its creators paid keen attention to historical accuracy and detail, as they tried to recreate one of the most beautiful statues of the ancient Greek world.

This is why the replica of the statue was completed with gold leaves and intricate carvings. The statue was not created at the same time with the building. It was only completed in 1990. The decision of the local authorities to add the statue was taken because they wanted to enhance the authenticity of the Parthenon experience. The statue represents Athena, the ancient Greek goddess of wisdom and warfare, in a form that would be very familiar to ancient Athenians.

Art and exhibitions at Nashville Parthenon

Obviously, the architectural splendor of this monument is not the only reason one should visit. The Nashville Parthenon functions today as a vibrant museum for the entire state of Tennessee, as it houses a rich collection of American art. The Cowan Collection, for example, featuring works from the 19th and 20th centuries, offers visitors a glimpse into America’s artistic heritage.

Additionally, the Parthenon’s temporary exhibits span a wide range of themes and periods. They include exhibits from contemporary art all the way to historical retrospectives. This enriches Nashville’s cultural landscape, offering its visitors much more than one could have imagined. These exhibits also highlight the versatility of the Parthenon as a cultural institution. It is why the Parthenon of Nashville is a true gift to its locals. It promotes art education and cultural appreciation in the best possible venue.

The Nashville Parthenon’s role in community and education

It is evident that the Nashville Parthenon is a true landmark and a cultural and educational hub. It always hosts various programs that engage the local community and its visitors alike. From art classes to lectures about local and international history, it offers valuable educational experiences to thousands of people every year.

One could justifiably say that the Nashville Parthenon is more than just a replica; it is a living museum. Certainly, it is a bridge that connects the United States with Greece and its timeless cultures. Furthermore, it is a testament to the timeless appeal of Classical Greek architecture and beauty. Honestly, the Nashville Parthenon is a real piece of Greece in the heart of modern America.

https://greekreporter.com/author/nick/

“Taste Hong Kong,” A Chef-Curated Gourmet Guide To The City’s True Culinary Soul

More than 50 master chefs handpick 250 restaurants to showcase the authentic flavours of Hong Kong’s neighbourhoods.

Hong Kong’s longstanding reputation as one of the world’s great food cities has been built on contrast — a destination where humble street stalls sit comfortably alongside polished Michelin-starred dining rooms, and where “Great Taste” can be found everywhere in Hong Kong. This season, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) celebrates the city’s rich culinary culture with the launch of Taste Hong Kong, a new gourmet guide developed in collaboration with the Chinese Culinary Institute (CCI) that invites visitors to experience the city through the eyes — and appetites — of its master chefs.

Taste Hong Kong is a chef-curated culinary guide to the city’s diverse neighbourhoods. More than 50 master chefs — all graduates of CCI’s prestigious Master Chef Course in Chinese Cuisine — have collectively handpicked 250 restaurants throughout Hong Kong, shining a spotlight on the places they return to time and again. The guide offers a comprehensive and refined overview of the city’s culinary landscape, highlighting a rich tapestry of Chinese cuisines alongside an array of international flavours, from traditional noodle shops and classic dessert parlours to family run local gems, artisanal cafés, upscale hotel restaurants, and Michelin-starred fine dining destinations. Going beyond conventional rankings and accolades, the guide provides an authoritative, insider perspective on the city’s most authentic and distinctive gastronomic experiences.

At the heart of Taste Hong Kong are the chefs themselves. As the creative minds behind some of Hong Kong’s most celebrated dining rooms, they bring a rare perspective on what defines a great meal — and what makes a restaurant endure. Among them are acclaimed figures such as Adam Wong and Lee Man-sing, who have each contributed personal recommendations that reflect both their culinary roots and their deep connection to Hong Kong’s dining culture.

“When I think about Hong Kong food, I think about the neighbourhood places I always go back to — dai pai dongs, cha chaan tengs and small restaurants that define the city’s everyday dining culture. These spots reflect how locals really eat and the city’s culinary soul. I am excited to be part of this guide because it gives visitors a genuine way to experience Hong Kong through the food and neighbourhoods that locals know and love,” says Adam Wong, a 3-star Michelin Executive Chef at the Forum Restaurant.

“I have always believed that some of Hong Kong’s best food is found in the simplest settings, whether it’s a comforting bowl of noodles or hot pot shared with friends. The restaurants highlighted in Taste Hong Kong are places with history, consistency and heart. They show why Hong Kong is one of the world’s most exciting cities to eat in,” says Lee Man-sing, Executive Chef of Mott 32 Group.

Designed for both visitors and locals, Taste Hong Kong organises its 250 restaurant picks by neighbourhood. With various neighbourhoods represented, travellers are encouraged to venture beyond well-trodden dining districts and experience the distinctive character of each area. From sizzling woks in bustling street kitchens to quiet neighbourhood favourites passed down through generations, the chefs’ selections offer visitors and locals a deeper insight into Hong Kong’s rich culinary heritage and vibrant diversity, guiding them to the true “Great Taste” of the city.

The guide is supported by a rich suite of digital content, including neighbourhood videos and curated maps, hosted on the campaign’s dedicated website. A downloadable digital edition of the Taste Hong Kong guide will also be available, serving as an easy-to-use companion for planning meals and neighbourhood discovery. QR codes will be displayed at various MTR stations, bus shelters and visitor signage across neighbourhoods. HKTB will also broadcast the “Taste Hong Kong” promotional video at major tourist hotspots, and prominent shopping malls and hotels across the city, reinforcing Hong Kong’s status as a global gourmet capital where exceptional food can be found everywhere — often in the most unexpected places.

To discover the full Taste of Hong Kong guide and begin your culinary adventure, visit tastehk.discoverhongkong.com. Download the digital guide, watch the neighbourhood videos and join the conversation using #TasteHongKong to discover the authentic flavours that define Hong Kong, one neighbourhood at a time.

Source: Hong Kong Tourism Board

You’re Banned From Blocking Trump’s Face On Your National Park Pass—But There’s A Work-Around

These designers found a clever way to keep the president’s mug off their America the Beautiful entry passes.

The 2026 national park pass features a portrait of Donald Trump’s face, and the Department of the Interior (DOI) has threatened to penalize anyone who tries to cover it up. Now, park lovers are inventing their own clever work-arounds to remove the president’s visage from their passes.

For over two decades, the annual America the Beautiful park pass design has featured photography of nature, animals, and scenery across the United States. But when the DOI revealed the 2026 pass in November, something was glaringly different. Rather than a cascading waterfall or towering redwoods, the pass included a portrait of George Washington, framed side by side with Trump’s mug-shot-inspired headshot.

The response to the pass design was swift. Many cardholders took to the internet to show themselves covering Trump’s face with stickers as a form of protest. But mere weeks later, per an internal email obtained by SFGate, the DOI updated its “Void if Altered” policy in a transparent effort to discourage pass holders from covering Trump’s face.

Whereas the policy previously stated that passes could be voided only if the signature section of the card was altered, it now overtly flags stickers and other coverings as alterations that could invalidate the pass. According to a policy document shared with The Washington Post, staff who come across altered passes are instructed to ask that stickers or coverings be removed. If that’s not possible, they’re permitted to either charge the guest with the regular entrance fee or give them the option to buy a brand-new pass.

While the Trump administration is acting quickly to redesign the National Park Service in Trump’s literal image, national parkgoers are quicker. In the days since the pass policy was altered in early January, multiple designers have stepped up with clever work-arounds that conceal the president’s glowering face without running afoul of the restrictions. The simplest solution is a card sleeve that covers Trump’s face most of the time, but can be easily removed when the card is shown at park entrances.

How small designers are fighting back against the DOI

Katie Weber and her husband, Chris, started their Michigan-based apparel brand Dirt Roads Project in March 2025. The company, Weber says, was her way to make a difference after feeling “overwhelmed by everything happening in our country.” So part of each purchase gives back to the preservation of parks and nature, including through collaborations with nonprofits like the Michigan Animal Rescue League, Alliance for the Great Lakes, and Reef Relief.

When Weber saw the park pass design for 2026, she immediately decided to create something that would cover Trump’s face.

“I was incredibly frustrated and wanted to be able to bring the parks front and center instead of showing someone who is honestly trying to dismantle our parks,” Weber says. “That night, I started going through all of our photography from past hiking trips, chose a handful that I loved, and created the design.”

Her final selections, which run for just $6 each, feature photos taken at eight prominent national parks, including Zion in Utah, Haleakalā in Maui, and Yosemite in California. After they launched for preorder around Thanksgiving, Weber says, interest in the stickers has been “growing rapidly.”

Weber specifically engineered the stickers to avoid covering any pertinent information on the cards, including the signature section, holographic strip, and barcode. But in the wake of the DOI’s new sticker ban, she adapted the design to guarantee that users won’t be penalized. Instead of adding the sticker directly to their passes, customers can now purchase a $2 plastic card sleeve from Dirt Roads Project to keep their cards completely unaltered while still obscuring the president’s face.

After the DOI’s new regulations emerged, Weber says Dirt Roads Project has seen “skyrocketing” demand, bringing in over $6,000 from the stickers alone in the first weeks of January. “To me, that shows that this small form of protest is being seen, and that people’s frustration is being heard,” she says.

Other small businesses are similarly using their art to fight back. Mitchell Bowen is a graphic designer who runs a poster company called Recollection Project, pulling inspiration from 1930s illustrations to create posters of national parks and other travel destinations. He designed a $12 card sleeve with one of his illustrations for Grand Teton National Park, featuring two American bison in front of a mountain vista. Interest has been so high, Bowen says, that he’s had to pause new orders to focus on fulfilling his backlog.

“Trump’s crassest, most ego-driven action yet”

Both Weber’s and Bowen’s nature-centric designs call back to the history of the national park pass’s design, which has, by federal law, featured the winning photo of the National Park Foundation’s annual public lands photo contest since 2004. In fact, the DOI and the National Park Service are currently facing a lawsuit from the conservation group Center for Biological Diversity for failing to follow that federal design stipulation on the 2026 card.

In a statement on the lawsuit released on December 10, Kierán Suckling, the center’s executive director, wrote that the new pass design was “Trump’s crassest, most ego-driven action yet.”

“It’s disgusting of Trump to politicize America’s most sacred refuge by pasting his face over the national parks in the same way he slaps his corporate name on buildings, restaurants, and golf courses,” he continued. “The national parks are not a personal branding opportunity. They’re the pride and joy of the American people.”

https://www.fastcompany.com/user/gsnelling

On July 4, The Port Of New York Will Host One Of The Largest Ship Gatherings In History To Mark The Country's Semiquincentennial

For the nation’s 250th birthday, the city’s waterfront becomes the stage for a historic parade of ships, jets and fireworks.

Photograph: Courtesy of Sail250
If your idea of a big Fourth of July crowd is shoulder-to-shoulder on the Brooklyn Heights Promenade, get ready to think much, much bigger. Next summer, New York Harbor will celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with what organizers are calling the largest international maritime gathering in U.S. history.

From July 3 through 9, the Port of New York and New Jersey will host a weeklong spectacle featuring more than 60 international tall ships from more than 20 countries, more than 40 allied and U.S. naval vessels, a British aircraft carrier, Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 and an aerial armada of over 100 aircrafts led by the U.S. Navy’s Blue Angels. By the numbers alone, it’s set to eclipse every Operation Sail celebration that came before it, from 1964 through 2012.

The main event hits on July 4, natch, with an International Parade of Sail that will send towering Class A tall ships gliding under the Verrazzano Bridge, past the Statue of Liberty and up the Hudson to the George Washington Bridge. They will be joined by smaller Class B ships, gray-hulled naval vessels in a rare International Naval Review and a sky full of flyovers, all before the night wraps with the 50th anniversary of Macy’s July 4th Fireworks over Manhattan.

City officials project that as many as eight million spectators could line the 15-mile stretch of New York City and New Jersey coast to watch it all unfold. The economic ripple is just as outsized: an NYC Economic Development Corporation analysis estimates $2.85 billion in total economic activity, including $730 million in net new impact for the city.

The show won’t end when the fireworks fade. From July 5 to 8, many of the international tall ships will be open for free public boarding at piers across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Staten Island and New Jersey. The week also brings food festivals, cultural programming and a ticker-tape parade honoring post-9/11 veterans and first responders.

It’s not just another Fleet Week moment. For Semiquincentennial the harbor itself becomes the main stage, with tall ships, naval power and aerial displays converging in a way the city hasn’t seen in decades.

https://www.timeout.com/profile/laura-ratliff

Travelore News: Air Canada Suspending Cuba Service In Response To Aviation Fuel Shortage

Air Canada said that effective today it is suspending its service to Cuba due to an ongoing shortage of aviation fuel on the island. Over the following days, the airline will operate empty flights southbound to pick up approximately 3,000 customers already at destination and return them home.

Air Canada took the decision following advisories issued by governments (NOTAMs) regarding the unreliability of the aviation fuel supply at Cuban airports. It is projected that as of February 10 aviation fuel will not be commercially available at the island’s airports. For remaining flights, Air Canada will tanker in extra fuel and make a technical stops as necessary to refuel on the return journey if necessary.

Air Canada will continue to monitor the situation to determine an appropriate restart of normal service to Cuba at a future date.

Customers

Air Canada’s immediate priority is to return customers already in Cuba to Canada. It will operate empty ferry flights to the island over the coming days to maintain its regular schedule from Cuba to Canada over the near-term to pick up these customers. Air Canada currently has approximately 3,000 customers in Cuba, most of whom are travelling on Air Canada Vacations Packages.

Throughout the process, Air Canada and Air Canada Vacations monitored the situation closely, first introducing a flexible rebooking policy for customers travelling to Cuba. Air Canada Vacations is now introducing a refund policy, allowing customers who had scheduled departures to Cuba and experienced flight cancellations to automatically receive a full refund in their original form of payment. There is no need for these customers to contact the Air Canada Vacations’ Contact Centre.

Customers currently in Cuba who booked an Air Canada Vacations package can receive direct support from Air Canada Vacations’ local representatives, who are available to address any questions or concerns.

Air Canada Cuba Schedule

Air Canada operates on average 16 weekly flights to four destinations in Cuba from Toronto and Montreal. These include:

From Toronto:

4 times weekly to Jardines del Rey Airport in Cayo Coco,

2 times weekly to Frank País Airport in Holguín,

4 times weekly to Juan Gualberto Gómez Airport in Varadero,

Once weekly to Abel Santamaría Airport in Santa Clara.

From Montreal:

3 times weekly to Jardines del Rey Airport in Cayo Coco,

2 times weekly to Juan Gualberto Gómez Airport in Varadero.

At present, seasonal flights to Holguín and Santa Clara are cancelled for the rest of the season. Flights to Varadero and Cayo Coco are schedule to operate yearround but are currently suspended with a tentative restart, pending review, on May 1. All Flights are normally operated on various narrow body aircraft between Mainline and Rouge. Air Canada will look to redeploy these aircraft to other destinations.

For updates, please visit: aircanada.com

Caribbean Islands Have Put Citizenship Up For Sale. Why Applicants Might Want To Hurry.

For savvy home hunters seeking real estate with benefits, countries that offer passports through investment have become the real golden ticket.

Caribbean Countries With Easy Paths to Citizenship Andreas Voelkel - Getty Images

For savvy home hunters seeking real estate with benefits, countries that offer full citizenship by investment (aka CBI programs) have become the real golden ticket, with Caribbean nations leading the charge.

St. Vincent and the Grenadines announced in December that it plans to launch a CBI scheme this year, following neighbors Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St. Lucia, and St. Kitts and Nevis. St. Kitts launched the region’s first CBI program in 1984.

Rather than just offering residency, citizenship-by-investment programs grant passports to foreigners who either invest in government-run philanthropic projects or buy approved real estate, said Basil Mohr-Elzeki, a Miami-based managing partner at Henley & Partners, a global firm that specializes in residency and citizenship planning.

“Governments started these programs to seek foreign direct investment,” Mohr-Elzeki said. “The investor’s family gets a passport. The country gets economic stimulus that leads to jobs and infrastructure. It’s a win-win.”

But there’s a case for investors to hurry if they’re seriously interested, as residency- and citizenship-for-investment programs tend to come under the microscope as they become more popular.

According to a report from the European Commission, more than 100,000 passports have been issued through CBI programs since 2014. But the report added that “the past years have shown that traveling without a visa may pose significant challenges related to irregular migration and security.”

As a result, islands may soon tighten up requirements, Mohr-Elzeki said.

“St. Kitts will be implementing a more merit-based program, meaning a genuine link to the island, a physical presence, or job creation or a business, and other islands are rumored to be considering more stringent requirements and higher investment thresholds,” he said. “But we don’t see a cap coming. We see a change of program to make it more difficult as demand increases.”

To add to pressures in the region, the United States this week announced it will no longer process visa applications from 75 countries, including most of the Caribbean islands.

Boom in U.S. Applicants

As applications for CBI programs have “surged,” host countries are seeing significant changes in both who’s applying and how they’re spending. Among Henley Global clients, U.S. nationals accounted for 5% of total applications in 2018, a figure that rose to about 40% in 2025, “a 2,425% increase in applications,” Mohr-Elzeki said. The firm also saw a 43% increase in total CBI applications in 2025 compared to 2024, he said.

When the programs started, “it was people who wanted to get into the U.S. and required a friendlier passport than their home countries, like Russia or China,” said Dominique Silvera, co-founder of Christie’s International Real Estate Barbados. “Ironically, it’s a lot of Americans who are buying now. If you’re an American who does global business, it’s hard to say these days who’s a friend and who’s not, so a neutral passport is valuable.”

For many buyers exploring CBI programs in the region, lifestyle is a primary driver of where they end up buying, said Odge Davey, head of international sales for Savills in London. “Barbados has fantastic golf courses, beautiful landscapes and amazing nature,” he said. “You may get more for your money in Antigua in terms of property. Connectivity is another consideration, since some islands have better airlift than others to the U.S. and Europe.”

The Nuances of Each Island

But tax-efficiency and add-ons to CBI programs also influence choice of location, said Walter Zephirin, managing director of London-based Caribbean real estate specialists 7th Heaven Properties. “Each island has its own little nuances in terms of appeal to buyers. St. Kitts and Nevis is one of the most tax-efficient. Dominica is cheapest in terms of property investment and government donations. And Antigua is a real opportunity buy in terms of capital appreciation.”

Dominica “is also quicker to approve applications, because they don’t have a huge backlog,” said Silvera of Christie’s. “St. Kitts gets many more applications, so the process could take much longer.”

Buyers should also consider their horizon for keeping or selling property, Silvera said.

“Dominica is not a high-volume, high-turnover real estate island, so if you’re planning to eventually sell, you have to consider that. And on St. Kitts, you can’t sell CBI-connected real estate for seven years, so if you’re not planning to hold property, it may not be the best choice for you,” she said.

A St. Kitts passport also enables visa-free travel to 155 countries, the most of any island nation that offers a CBI program, she said. And because of a treaty with the U.S., Grenada’s passport is the only one in the region that provides access to an E2 visa, which allows a two-year stay in the U.S. for investors who commit “substantial” capital to a Stateside business. “If you’re coming from somewhere like the Middle East, that’s your roadmap to the U.S.,” she said.

Why You Should Hire an Expert

Obtaining citizenship by investment isn’t as easy as writing a check, said Mohr-Elzeki of Henley & Partners. “There is stringent due diligence to ensure that these passports are awarded to good citizens,” he said. “It’s more extensive than a standard background check. Every government has strict criteria and multiple layers. Because it could pose a risk for other countries, these Caribbean nations are very conscious about security. Rejections happen if files aren’t submitted correctly.”

Applicants must work with an authorized agent or lawyer to get the benefits of a CBI program, Mohr-Elzeki said. Approvals can take six to eight months, he said. Applicants can expect to pay around $40,000 to $60,000 in consultant fees and about $10,000 to $20,000 in government and administrative costs; applications can include dependent children, he said.

By Michael kaminer

What's New In Sonoma County – Winter 2026

Winter sets a different rhythm in Sonoma County. The pace softens, and the landscape exhales as valleys and vineyards grow quiet, and vines rest, gathering strength for the season ahead. Rain showers move through our region, followed by clear days and wide-open blue skies. The slower season leaves room for unhurried conversations and genuine moments of connection, inviting you to be present and experience our region at its most reflective. This is winter in Sonoma County, where “Life Opens Up.”

New in Hotels

Madeira House
Winter 2026
Madeira House is a new boutique stay on the Sonoma Coast, set where the Russian River meets the Pacific Ocean in the town of Jenner. The intimate property spans 11 rooms across three restored houses, pairing coastal restraint with warm, residential design. Many rooms offer river or ocean views, private decks, fireplaces, and select kitchenettes, while the overall experience is intentionally quiet and unplugged. With gardens, waterfront seating, and immediate access to coastal trails and beaches, Madeira House offers visitors a fresh lens on Sonoma County lodging beyond Wine Country, rooted in landscape, calm, and a strong sense of place.

Hyatt Place Sonoma Wine Country

A new Hyatt Place is under construction in Sonoma County near Charles Schulz - Sonoma County Airport (STS). The 165-room Hyatt Place Sonoma Wine Country is expected to open for guests in late 2026. The hotel will offer brand-style rooms, meeting spaces, a pool, a gym, outdoor areas, and a rooftop restaurant and bar with views of flights arriving and departing at STS. The lobby will include a bar serving local wines, beer, spirits, and Starbucks coffee, along with a 24/7 To-Go corner. A breakfast space and social areas are designed to appeal to business and leisure travelers alike. The project reflects growing investment in hospitality infrastructure supporting Sonoma County Wine Country tourism.

New in Wineries

Sol Rei Wines

Sol Rei Wines, a boutique, women-owned producer known for low-histamine, low-sulfite wines that are lab-tested to be free of detectable pesticides and other residues, has opened a new tasting room in downtown Sonoma. The space is designed as a light, nature-inspired retreat that reflects the brand's focus on purity, sustainability, and connection to the land and the craft of winemaking. Artistic touches include a mural of local wine grapes and a grapevine embedded in the bar, tying the tasting experience to the vineyards that supply the wines. Founder Katherine Kitzmiller created Sol Rei after a personal health journey led her to prioritize clean, intentional winemaking; the winery has quickly earned national honors for its 2023 vintage wines.

Marietta Cellars

Marietta Cellars has opened its first tasting room in downtown Healdsburg after 47 years as a Sonoma County staple known for its Old Vine Red and other approachable wines. The space, in a former police station near the Healdsburg Plaza, highlights the winery's small-lot, artisanal selections rather than its widely distributed labels. Designed by co-owner and designer Lisa Steinkamp with a contemporary feel, the tasting room offers flights, glasses, and bottles of single-estate and experimental wines in a relaxed setting with indoor seating and a leafy patio.

About Sonoma County Tourism

Sonoma County Tourism (SCT) is the official organization responsible for destination stewardship in California's Sonoma County. Committed to cultivating a vibrant economy through inclusivity, sustainability, and community connections, SCT promotes the area as a welcoming destination for all. Learn more about the organization's innovative efforts to support the local economy responsibly at sonomacounty.com/partners/about-sonoma-county-tourism/.
Wolves Lovers + Thieves

A new tasting room focused exclusively on sparkling wines has opened in Glen Ellen, adding a unique stop for Sonoma County Wine Country travelers. Wolves Lovers + Thieves brings a curated selection of bubbles to Sonoma Valley's tasting scene, giving visitors a reason to schedule a dedicated sparkling wine stop on their itineraries. The launch reflects broader confidence in Sonoma County's tasting room growth this year, with several new wine destinations debuting across the destination

Sonoma County Winegrowers

Sonoma County Winegrowers and Reservoir launched Reservoir Farms, Sonoma, the first on-farm robotics and automation hub for vineyards and the flagship of SCW's Farm of the Future initiative. The site includes fabrication space, an engineering workshop, and 14 acres of vineyard test blocks where startups and AgTech partners develop and test new tools with grower input. The hub addresses labor shortages, rising costs, and production pressures while supporting job growth and local innovation. Reservoir expects to bring six startups into the incubator by late 2025, strengthening Sonoma County's leadership in sustainable, tech-driven viticulture.

New in Restaurants

Bubbles & Delights Café

Petaluma's newest breakfast spot, Bubbles & Delights Café, is drawing attention for its lively take on morning meals. Locals are calling it a “truly unique breakfast place” with a menu of scratch-made classics and bubbly drinks, including mimosas alongside farm-fresh eggs and hearty plates served with care. The cafe opens early for daily breakfast and brunch and adds a fresh, community-oriented voice to Petaluma's food scene.

Aroma de Cafe

Aroma de Café, located in the heart of Railroad Square, one of Downtown Santa Rosa's most historic districts, has opened, signaling a fresh chapter in Santa Rosa's dining scene. Owners Luis Rodriguez and Alejandra Bravo have relocated their well-loved brunch cafe from Fifth Street to the larger Railroad Square location, where they will continue serving Latin and American brunch favorites. The expanded space allows the cafe to grow while staying connected to the neighborhood's historic character and steady flow of locals and visitors. Adding to its appeal, chef Carlos Mojica of Guiso Latin Fusion has introduced a dinner-only Latin-Italian menu, broadening the restaurant's reach from a daytime brunch favorite into an all-day and evening destination.

Pick's Roadside

Pick's Roadside in the far northern Sonoma County town of Cloverdale has reopened with fresh energy while honoring its century-old roots. The drive-in first opened in 1923 and has become a local landmark known for burgers, milkshakes and root beer. After a complete renovation and menu reboot, the reimagined Pick's features premium Wagyu beef burgers, classic shakes and a curated Sonoma County wine list, blending old-school charm with modern tastes. New owners Anidel Hospitality led the revival to preserve the site's historic spirit and create a community gathering place with a Sonoma County Wine Country twist. The original neon sign and nostalgic feel remain, drawing longtime fans and newcomers alike. This relaunch places Pick's back at the heart of downtown Cloverdale and positions it as a must-visit stop for travelers exploring Wine Country and Northern Sonoma County.

The Porch Kitchen

Longtime caterer and chef Lisa Boisset of The Cook and The Drummer has opened The Porch Kitchen in the former Goatlandia Kitchen space in Sebastopol. The Laguna Parkway restaurant behind The Barlow previously served as the animal rescue's catering kitchen and, briefly, a vegan cafe. Boisset has revamped the patio into an upscale grab-and-go space that's quickly gaining buzz as a place to linger and dine.

New in Airlines

Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines has decided to add more flights between Denver and Charles M. Schulz-Sonoma County Airport in Santa Rosa before its new service even begins. The airline will start flying from Sonoma County to Denver in April 2026, with trips available for sale now. The early expansion will add more departures than originally planned. This move responds to strong demand for nonstop Denver service from inbound and outbound travelers. The expanded schedule will offer travelers more weekend and weekday options to fly between Sonoma County and Denver when the route launches this spring.

New in Experiences

Jack London State Historic Park

Jack London State Historic Park in Glen Ellen is marking the 150th anniversary of the novelist's birth with a full year of public programming and special events. Planned events through 2026 include a quarterly speaker series featuring scholars and London's great-granddaughter, a “Call of the Wild Day” family celebration with art, music, and guided walks, and gala events. The program also introduces new offerings such as an online “Around the World on the Jack London Trail” guide and themed trail challenges to highlight London's global travels and local legacy. This yearlong initiative aims to blend heritage interpretation with immersive tourism experiences in a beautiful, hike-friendly setting at a California state park.

New in Wellness

Park Rx- Forest Bathing Walks

Forest Therapy, also known as Shinrin-yoku or forest bathing, continues to gain attention for its proven health and well-being benefits. Originating in Japan, this guided walking practice focuses on slowing down, reducing stress, and engaging the senses to support mental and physical restoration. In Sonoma County, Sugarloaf Ridge State Park offers a recurring Forest Therapy Series as part of its Park Rx Program, held on the fourth Sunday of each month from March through November. Led by certified Association of Nature and Forest Therapy practitioners, the experience introduces participants to simple techniques designed to deepen presence and enhance the restorative impact of time spent in nature. The program highlights Sonoma County's commitment to accessible, science-backed wellness experiences set within protected natural landscapes.

Elevate Sonoma

A new wellness destination is opening in Sonoma with the launch of Elevate Sonoma, a clinic offering hyperbaric oxygen therapy and red-light therapy. The facility features hyperbaric sessions that increase oxygen delivery in a pressurized environment to support healing, recovery, and overall well-being, while complementary red-light therapy aims to enhance results. The clinic brings a modern health and recovery option to Sonoma County's wellness landscape, positioning the region as a lifestyle travel destination for visitors seeking restorative experiences beyond traditional wine and outdoor offerings.

For the Good of the Cause

Russian River Brewing Company

Russian River Brewing Company, the Sonoma County brewery behind Pliny the Elder, the globally acclaimed craft beer repeatedly named among the best beers in the world, is pairing purpose with production in 2026. The brewery has introduced Russian River 110, a West Coast–style pilsner created to support Russian Riverkeeper, the nonprofit dedicated to protecting and restoring the Russian River watershed. A portion of net proceeds from expanded production, and the beer's first bottled release will fund local conservation efforts. The release underscores how one of America's most influential craft breweries continues to connect its beer, its place, and its environmental stewardship, giving visitors another reason to experience Sonoma County's craft beer scene firsthand.

Free Wi-Fi Now Available for American Airlines AAdvantage® Members, Sponsored By AT&T

Free high-speed Wi-Fi sponsored by AT&T is now rolling out to most American Airlines domestic flights and select international flights — exclusively for AAdvantage® members. Get ready to elevate your journey with high-speed connection from takeoff to landing.

Travelore News: Israel Set To Approve New International Airport In The Negev

As of February 5, 2026, Israel has reached a major milestone in its aviation history. The government has just announced that a formal resolution to establish a new international airport in the Negev will be brought to the Cabinet for final approval this coming Sunday.

For years, the debate over where to build Israel’s second major international gateway has been a tug-of-war between the North and the South. Today, the desert has won. The Prime Minister’s Office, alongside the Ministries of Transport and Finance, has announced that the new supplementary airport will be built at Ziklag in the northern Negev. Why the Negev? Why Now? The decision to move forward with the Ziklag site (located near the Ziklag archaeological site between Rahat and Netivot) is more than just a logistical fix for a crowded sky. It is a strategic pivot for the entire nation. Alleviating Ben-Gurion: Israel’s main gateway, Ben-Gurion International Airport, is rapidly approaching its capacity of 40 million passengers per year. With projections suggesting up to 80 million travelers by 2050, the need for a secondary hub has become a "national necessity."

Ending the "Periphery": Transport Minister Miri Regev has hailed this as a "historic decision" that will transform the south from a "periphery" into a central growth hub. The project is expected to create thousands of new jobs and attract massive investment to the region.
Security & Resilience: In the wake of recent conflicts, diversifying Israel's aviation entries is seen as vital for national security. The site is symbolically located just miles from the areas affected by the October 7th attacks, signaling a commitment to long-term prosperity and recovery for southern communities.

The Ziklag Project: By the Numbers

The new airport is designed to be a modern, high-tech facility that complements rather than replaces the central hub.
Feature-Estimated Impact
Annual Capacity: Up to 10 million passengers
Estimated Cost: 7 billion shekels
Projected Timeline: Approximately 10 years for completion

Job Creation: Thousands of direct and indirect roles

A Hard-Fought Decision

The road to Ziklag wasn’t easy. For a long time, the Nevatim airbase was the frontrunner for a southern airport, but it faced significant pushback from the Defense Ministry due to its proximity to sensitive F-35 fighter jet operations. Simultaneously, residents in the Jezreel Valley campaigned heavily against a northern alternative at Ramat David to protect the region’s agricultural landscape.

By choosing Ziklag, the government has found a middle ground that balances military needs with the urgent demand for civilian aviation growth.

What’s Next?

The formal vote by the Cabinet on Sunday, February 8, 2026, is expected to be a "green light" for the planning phases to begin in earnest. While experts suggest it will be a decade before the first flight departs from Ziklag, the message is clear: the Negev is no longer just a desert—it is the future of Israel’s connection to the world.

Travelore Tips: What You Should Never Order On A Plane–According To Flight Attendants

You'll think twice the next time you look at the menu onboard...

Airplane food and drinks have improved over the years, but there are still a few in-flight orders that even seasoned travelers think twice about. After spending a heavy travel month bouncing between early-morning departures and long-haul flights, I decided to ask the people who know airline cabins best: flight attendants.

Rather than focusing on any one airline, I asked a simple question during multiple flights: what are the items passengers are better off skipping in the air? Their answers were candid, consistent, and surprisingly practical. While none of these suggestions are meant to alarm travelers, they do shed light on how flying changes everything from hygiene to how your body processes food and alcohol.

Here’s what flight attendants recommend avoiding—and why.

Don’t use ice in your drinks

Several flight attendants noted that ice can be a gray area onboard. While aircraft are cleaned regularly, the tools used to scoop ice aren’t always washed between flights in the same way galley equipment is. That doesn’t mean every airline operates the same way, but if cleanliness is top of mind for you, ordering beverages without ice is an easy workaround. Bottled drinks or canned seltzers poured directly into a cup avoid the issue altogether.

Diet Coke with extra foam

This one surprised me, but it came up more than once. Diet Coke, in particular, tends to foam excessively at altitude. Cabin pressure causes carbonation to behave differently, and Diet Coke is notorious for producing long-lasting foam when poured onboard. That’s why it often takes flight attendants longer to serve — and why some quietly dread the order. If you’re craving soda, other options tend to be quicker and less messy.

Say no to double alcoholic drinks

Alcohol affects the body differently at cruising altitude. Lower oxygen levels can intensify its effects, meaning a drink or two may hit harder than expected. Flight attendants also pointed out that getting overly buzzed in a confined cabin isn’t enjoyable for the person drinking — or the people seated nearby. Long flights can make it easy to feel both intoxicated and dehydrated before you even land.

Save Bloody Marys for land

While tomato juice is famously popular on planes, flight attendants warned that drinks with high sodium content can contribute to bloating and swelling, especially on longer flights. Sitting for extended periods already causes fluid retention, and salty cocktails may make that discomfort worse. For travelers prone to puffy ankles or post-flight fatigue, it might be worth saving celebratory drinks for after landing.

Avoid fish entrées

In-flight meals are reheated rather than freshly cooked, and fish doesn’t always fare well in that process. Several flight attendants said fish dishes are among the least forgiving when it comes to texture and smell. Since meals are typically heated using steam or convection methods, proteins that rely on precise cooking temperatures can easily dry out or become unpleasant.

What to order instead

If you want to keep things simple, flight attendants generally recommend sealed beverages, lighter meals, and options that don’t rely heavily on reheating. Sparkling water without ice, packaged snacks, and straightforward meals tend to be the safest bets. These choices minimize surprises and help you feel better when you arrive.

Flying already puts stress on your body in subtle ways. Making a few small, informed choices about what you order onboard can go a long way toward a more comfortable trip, and fewer regrets at 35,000 feet.

https://creators.yahoo.com/brands/jimmyrox/

Callaghan Horiuchi Shares Interior Renderings Of Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art Redesign In Bentonville, Arkansas

Callaghan Horiuchi is redesigning key interior spaces at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Arkansas. The New York–based firm led by Christian Callaghan and Haruka Horiuchi will reimagine the guest experience inside both the original museum building from 2011 and its expansion, expected to open this year. The goal is to create a more cohesive journey between the old and new.

Callaghan Horiuchi is designing a new cafe at Crystal Bridges Museum of Art, and other features. (Courtesy Callaghan Horiuchi)

The Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art’s expansion was unanimously approved by the Bentonville Planning Commission in 2021, and construction started shortly after. The same team behind the original building, Safdie Architects and Buro Happold, designed the expansion, which increases the museum’s size by 50 percent. The interior redesign at Crystal Bridges by Callaghan Horiuchi entails the creation of new galleries, lobbies, gathering spaces, and learning environments within the museum and its expansion.

Renderings show an upgraded courtyard with verdant plantings and trees and a redesigned and expanded main lobby crowned with Safdie’s glass dome. A whimsical, floral art piece by the Haas Brothers will bloom in the room’s center, underneath the circular skylight.

A new cafe will be located within a main circulation path amid the building’s signature ceilings lined with curved slabs of wood and large spans of angled glazing.

The revamped lower lobby will feature new immersive book stacks and furniture for leisure. Here, the rounded book shelves double as seating to form a “campfire,” Callaghan Horiuchi said. Wood from the site was repurposed into furnishings throughout the interiors.

An art piece from the Haas Brothers will be inserted in the revamped and expanded main lobby. (Courtesy Callaghan Horiuchi)

“A central challenge of the project was accommodating a diverse variety of spaces, our interior design strategy seeks to unify the lobbies, circulation areas, and ancillary spaces with the galleries, creating a seamless visitor journey,” said Christian Callaghan in a statement.

Architects note the museum will be reconfigured into seven “signature moments,” designed to leave a lasting impression on visitors; and ten “key areas,” interstitial zones that create a cohesive guest journey.

“Our goal was to design interiors that feel both inspiring and deeply connected to place,” Haruka Horiuchi added. “Throughout the museum, new furniture enhances comfort and accessibility, including repurposed original benches with new cushions and armrests alongside custom pieces crafted from on-site wood slabs, celebrating creativity and craftsmanship.”

Construction has already begun on the interior redesign and will complete alongside the museum expansion in June 2026. It’s happening parallel to other transformative projects underway at Crystal Bridges, including a new nature trail by Studio Bryan Hanes.

Polk Stanley Wilcox and OSD completed the Alice L. Walton School of Medicine at Crystal Bridges last summer, as reported by AN. Marlon Blackwell Architects finished the new multifunctional Heartland Whole Health Institute and a creative parking complex in June.

https://www.archpaper.com/author/danroche/

Travelore News: Germany Issues Formal Travel Advisory For US

Germany has issued a travel advisory to its citizens travelling to the United States, citing risks linked to immigration enforcement and public-order situations.

Germany’s Federal Foreign Office said on Tuesday that German citizens should be aware of demonstrations and clashes with American migration and security authorities.

The advisory is not a political statement about the U.S. but aims to give impartial information for German citizens travelling to the country at a time of increased tensions during President Donald Trump's aggressive deportation drive.

Protests have been held in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and other cities against the actions of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Border Patrol officers enforcing Trump’s immigration crackdown.

Federal agents deployed to the city under the Trump administration's "Operation Metro Surge" shot and killed U.S. citizen Alex Pretti in Minneapolis.on Saturday and fellow American Renée Good on Jnauary 7.

The statement said, according to a translation, that in Minneapolis and other cities, demonstrations sometimes lead to violent clashes with the migration and security authorities and warns people to be vigilant and stay away from crowds where violence might occur.

The advisory asks people to check out local media, stay away from crowds of people in which violence could possibly occur and note existing ID requirement in several states. "Keep calm and follow the instructions of the authorities and local security forces," added the statement.

Last March, Germany updated its travel advisory for the U.S. to emphasize that a visa or waiver allowing entry does not guarantee citizens to enter the U.S. after several of its citizens were detained at the border.

What People Are Saying

Germany’s Federal Foreign Office on its website: “In Minneapolis and other cities, demonstrations sometimes lead to violent clashes with the migration and security authorities.”

Journalist Olga Nesterova posted on X: “The update follows recent incident in which reporters from RAI, Italy’s state broadcaster, reported being threatened by ICE while working.”

By Brendan Cole

New Lufthansa Group Collaboration With Starlink: High-speed Internet On All Fleets Across All Airlines

The Lufthansa Group continues investing in its premium customer experience and will equip all of the Group's approximately 850 aircraft with high-speed broadband internet access from 2026 onwards. This will occur within the existing fleet, as well as on all new aircraft. Lufthansa Group’s partner for this comprehensive upgrade is Starlink, a leading provider that offers the fastest in-flight internet connection in the industry today. The system is based on satellite technology and enables internet access in the air.

In the near future, higher bandwidth and speed will enable streaming, cloud-based working, and other high-speed applications during flights. The new internet service will be free-of-charge for all status customers and Travel ID users - across all travel classes. This makes Lufthansa Group the largest airline group in Europe to upgrade its fleet with state-of-the-art broadband internet – no other airline will equip more aircraft with Starlink technology.

The cooperation is part of the Lufthansa Group's extensive investments in new aircraft and premium product and service innovations along the entire travel chain.

"In our anniversary year, in which we are celebrating Lufthansa's 100th birthday, we have decided to introduce a new high-speed internet solution from Starlink for all our airlines. The Lufthansa Group is taking the next step and setting an essential milestone for the premium travel experience of our customers. Connectivity on board plays an important role today, and with Starlink, we are not only investing in the best product on the market, but also in the satisfaction of our passengers," said Dieter Vranckx, Chief Commercial Officer of the Lufthansa Group.

The gradual introduction of Starlink on board of Lufthansa Group aircraft will begin as early as the second half of 2026. By 2029, the entire fleet will be equipped with the new connectivity offering. Further details will be announced in the course of the year.

Travelore News: Saudi Arabia Shelves Mukaab 'The Cube' Project, World's Largest Skyscraper

Saudi Arabia has suspended planned construction of a colossal cube-shaped skyscraper at the center of a downtown development in Riyadh while it reassesses the project's financing and feasibility, four people familiar with the matter said.

The Mukaab, at the center of Riyadh's New Murabba development, is the latest fantastical gigaproject linked to Saudi's Vision 2030 to be curtailed or delayed as the kingdom's $925 billion sovereign wealth fund scales back ambitions to manage costs and prioritize spending.

The kingdom is pivoting from heavy expenditure on futuristic projects that have dominated Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030, such as NEOM's The Line, to initiatives seen as more pressing and potentially profitable.

Projects in focus now include infrastructure for World Expo 2030 and the 2034 World Cup, the sprawling $60 billion Diriyah mixed-use cultural zone and the Qiddiya tourism megaproject, five people familiar with the matter said.

The repositioning also reflects mounting fiscal pressures as oil prices remain well below levels needed to fund the ambitious transformation agenda.

WORK BEYOND SOIL EXCAVATION, PILINGS SUSPENDED

The Mukaab was planned as a 400-metre by 400-metre metal cube containing a dome with an AI-powered display, the largest on the planet, that visitors could observe from a more than 300-metre-tall ziggurat - or terraced structure - inside it.

"When you enter Mukaab, you enter another world," CEO Michael Dyke told attendees at a Riyadh conference in December, acknowledging difficulties realizing the project. "Trying to solve for something that doesn't exist today, that's quite challenging," he said.

Its future is now unclear, with work beyond soil excavation and pilings suspended, three of the people said. Development of the surrounding real estate is set to continue, five people familiar with the plans said. The sources include people familiar with the project's development and people privy to internal deliberations at the PIF.

Officials from PIF, the Saudi government and the New Murabba project did not respond to requests for comment.

PIF SHIFTING FOCUS TO LOGISTICS, AI, MINING

Reuters reported in October that the PIF was shifting strategy to focus on logistics, mining, AI and other sectors promising better near-term returns, as pressure mounted following an $8 billion writedown on gigaproject investments at the end of 2024.

The kingdom is currently conducting a comprehensive review of several Vision 2030 mega projects.

Saudi Economy Minister Faisal al-Ibrahim told Reuters last week: "We're very transparent. We're not going to shy away from saying we had to shift this project, delay it, re-scope it," without mentioning a specific project.

Over the weekend, Saudi Arabia said it would indefinitely postpone hosting the 2029 Asian Winter Games set to take place at Trojena, another NEOM megaproject that has faced delays.

But the Mukaab is the first project in the Saudi capital reported to be reassessed for feasibility.

The structure was billed as large enough to fit 20 Empire State Buildings, and feature around 2 million square meters of interior floor space, making it the world's largest single-built structure.

NEW MURABBA WOULD COST $50 BILLION, SAYS KNIGHT FRANK

Real estate consultancy Knight Frank estimated the New Murabba district would cost about $50 billion - roughly equivalent to Jordan's GDP - with projects commissioned so far valued at around $100 million. Initial plans for the New Murabba district called for completion by 2030. It is now slated to be completed by 2040.

The development was intended to house 104,000 residential units and add 180 billion riyals to the kingdom's GDP, creating 334,000 direct and indirect jobs by 2030, the government had estimated previously. The Mukaab's design drew some social media criticism when it was unveiled for its resemblance to the Kaaba, the sacred structure at the center of Masjid al-Haram in Mecca that serves as Islam's holiest site, towards which Muslims pray.

Reporting by Timour Azhari in Riyadh, and Hadeel Al Sayegh and Federico Maccioni in Dubai; Editing by Bernadette Baum

New Bakery Map Is A Sweet Way To Explore Philadelphia

From the brand new Bread Room in Washington Square to the nearly 140-year-old Bredenbeck's in Chestnut Hill, the new Bakery map is literally all over the map, showcasing 30 spots all over the city.

Ellen Yin, founder of High Street Hospitality Group and co-chair of Sisterly Love Collective came up with the idea.

Visit Philly quickly came on board and the hope is that locals, along with tourists visiting our city in this monumental year, will grab a copy and follow their nose.

CI Macarons & Cafe |https://www.instagram.com/icimacarons 11 N. 3rd Street, Philadelphia, Pa. 19106

Tartes Pastry Shop |https://www.instagram.com/tartes_oldcity 212 Arch Street, Philadelphia, Pa. 19106

Ba Le Bakery | https://www.instagram.com/balebakeryphilly 606 Washington Avenue, Philadelphia, Pa. 19147

Jezabel's | https://www.instagram.com/jezabels 206-208 S 45th St, Philadelphia, Pa. 19104

https://www.visitphilly.com/philly-bakeries/
By Wendy Daughenbaugh

The Biggest International Museum Openings In 2026

From George Lucas's new museum in LA to the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, a host of institutions are preparing to open their doors this year.

The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art opens in September 2026 Image: The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art

Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, US

Founded by husband and wife, the legendary Star Wars filmmaker George Lucas and businesswoman Mellody Hobson, the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art is opening in Exhibition Park, LA, September 2026.

Set on an 11-acre campus, the museum will be dedicated to narrative storytelling and will feature works from Norman Rockwell, Beatrix Potter, Frida Kahlo and Windsor McCay. The museum will also include the Lucas Archives, which include models, props and costumes from George Lucas’ filming career.

Design Doha

Qatar Museums’ Design Doha biennial is set to open in April 2026. Led by artistic director Glenn Adamson, the second edition of Qatar Museums’ Design Doha will focus on ethical and sustainable practices and its headline exhibition, Arab Design Now, will celebrate local and regional talent.

Kanal, Belgium

Due to open in November 2026, Kanal will not only be Brussel’s first museum of modern and contemporary art and architecture but will also be Europe’s largest modern and contemporary art development. Located at a former Citroen car factory in the centre of Brussels, the space, designed by Atelier Kanal, will include facilities from live music and performance venues to a bookshop and library.

Memphis Art Museum, US

The Memphis Brooks Museum of Art is changing location and becoming the Memphis Art Museum in December 2026. Already the oldest and largest art museum in Tennessee, the new site, located in downtown Memphis, will expand gallery space by 50%. The new site has an emphasis on accessibility, with lots of free public spaces to be available.

Guggenheim Museum, Abu Dhabi

First announced in 2006 and originally planned to open in 2012, Abu Dhabi’s long-awaited Guggenheim Museum is expected to welcome the public this year. Located on Saadiyat Island, the museum will feature a global collection of post-1960s works, with a focus on indigenous art and underrepresented artists.

LACMA David Geffen Galleries, US

LACMA’s David Geffen Galleries, located on Wilshire Boulevard, LA, will open April 2026. The building, designed by Prizker-winning architect Peter Zumthor, has been part of a two-decade transformation.

The gallery is set to include art from all eras and cultures on a single exhibition level, signalling its commitment to inclusivity, as well as outdoor sculptures. The building’s architecture will allow for natural lighting and panoramic views of the city. The gallery is named in recognition of David Geffen’s $150 million gift.

Design Museum Gent, Belgium

The Design Museum Gent in Belgium will reopen in October 2026 after a renovation and a new wing. The renovation promises improved facilities including space for lectures, design courses and workshops, as well as garden areas.

Muzej Lah, Slovenia

Situated in the beautiful Julian Alps in Bled, Slovenia, Muzej Lah hopes to become a cultural hub for local community and international visitors. The museum will feature contemporary art from the Fundacija Lah art collection, made accessible to the public for the first time. The collection features artists from Joseph Beuys and Emilia Kabakov, to William Kentridge and Anselm Kiefer, and the architecture hopes to complement both the alpines and Bled Castle.

https://www.museumsassociation.org/museums-journal/author/grace-bannistercity-ac-uk/

Airport Lounge Access Is Tightening In 2026 For Capital One And Chase Cardholders

For years, airport lounge access was considered a straightforward benefit of premium travel credit cards. In 2026, that perk comes with more strings attached. New guest limits and fees are rolling out, making access less automatic for many travelers.

Here’s what’s changing, when it takes effect, and whether you need to adjust your strategy.

What’s Changing for Lounge Access in Early 2026?

The biggest lounge access changes in 2026 focus on one thing: guest privileges. Both Chase and Capital One are tightening who you can bring with you, how much it costs, and whether authorized users still get access at all.

This move is largely driven by overcrowding, which has become one of the biggest complaints among eligible lounge visitors. While limiting guests and adding spending thresholds is intended to protect the lounge experience, there’s little evidence so far that these measures actually reduce congestion — especially as more travelers than ever have some form of lounge access through credit cards, airline status, or partnerships.

Airline-run lounges such as Delta Sky Club and United Club have already implemented lounge access restrictions for guests based on their annual spending. Now, credit card–backed lounge programs are following a similar path.

Ritz-Carlton Card: Unlimited Guests End January 15, 2026

For holders of The Ritz-Carlton™ Credit Card (only available by changing to it from another Chase-issued Marriott credit card), one of the most generous Priority Pass benefits is being scaled back.

Starting January 15, 2026, unlimited guests for no additional cost will no longer be included. Instead, cardholders will be allowed to bring up to 2 guests per visit, with additional guests charged the standard Priority Pass fee.

The good news is that this change doesn’t completely eliminate flexibility.

Though tricky to get, the Ritz-Carlton card still offers Priority Pass access with up to 2 guests at no extra charge. Image Credit: Ehsan Haque

You can still add authorized users to the Ritz-Carlton card for no additional cost, and each authorized user receives their own Priority Pass membership. That means, as a workaround, each authorized user can still bring 2 guests of their own, making this card one of the few remaining ways for families or frequent group travelers to maintain broad lounge access without paying per-visit fees.

Capital One Lounges Add Guest Fees Starting on February 1, 2026

Capital One is also pulling back lounge access, and the changes affect both guests and authorized users of the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card.

Beginning February 1, 2026, guests at Capital One Lounges will incur a fee of $45 per adult and $25 for children ages 2 through 17. Guest access to Priority Pass lounges will also come with a per-person charge.

Authorized users are impacted as well. Going forward, authorized users will no longer receive lounge access unless the primary cardholder pays an annual fee of $125 per authorized user. This replaces the current setup, where authorized users receive full lounge access at no additional cost.

Capital One is scaling back lounge access for guests and authorized users. Image Credit: Katie Corrigan Seemann

Cardholders who want to preserve guest access at no extra charge will need to spend their way back into it. This requires spending $75,000 or more on the card in a calendar year, which unlocks complimentary guests at Capital One Lounges, along with limited guest access at Capital One Landings.

There is one notable exception. Holders of the Capital One Venture X Business Card will continue to receive Priority Pass access with 2 complimentary guests, without needing to meet a spending threshold. However, these cardholders will still have the same guest restrictions at Capital One Lounges and the option to either pay $125 for additional users or spend $75,000 on their card to unlock Capital One Lounge access.

Airport lounge access is getting more restrictive in 2026, with new guest limits, fees, and spending requirements rolling out across major credit cards. Capital One is adding guest fees and changing authorized user access, while the Ritz-Carlton card is ending unlimited guests but still offers flexibility through authorized users.

For travelers, the takeaway is straightforward. Lounge access now depends more on how you travel — plus who you travel with. Understanding your card’s rules ahead of time can help you avoid surprise fees and decide whether adding authorized users, adjusting spending, or rethinking your card setup makes sense before your next trip.

Juan Ruiz

Qatar Airways Adds Starlink To 787s, Rolls It Out On A350

Qatar AirwayS has become the first airline globally to equip the Boeing 787-8 with Starlink, while also completing the world’s first Airbus A350 Starlink installation program, further cementing its position as the industry leader in high-speed in-flight connectivity.

The Doha-based carrier now operates nearly 120 Starlink-equipped widebody aircraft, spanning Airbus A350s, Boeing 777s, and Boeing 787 Dreamliners. The rollout means more than 58% of the airline’s widebody fleet now offers ultra-high-speed connectivity at speeds of up to 500 Mbps, enabling gate-to-gate internet access on long- and ultra-long-haul routes across six continents, subject to local regulations.

First-of-Its-Kind Installations

Following its Boeing 777 linkage program, QR completed the entire A350 Starlink installation within eight months, finishing in December 2025. The airline has now extended the technology to its 787 fleet, with three Boeing 787-8s already flying with Starlink, making QR the first carrier worldwide to secure Starlink certification on the 787-8.

Within 14 months, QR launched and completed Starlink installations on the Boeing 777 and Airbus A350, before expanding the program to the 787, marking what the airline describes as the fastest widebody connectivity rollout in aviation history.

Since the airline launched its Starlink service in October 2024, it says more than 11 million of its passengers have used the complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi onboard. In a global context, Starlink connected approximately 21 million airline passengers in 2025, with Qatar Airways accounting for nearly half of that total, underscoring the scale of its deployment relative to the wider industry.

Passengers on Starlink-equipped aircraft can stream, video call, and work in real time, with performance that the airline says can exceed many home broadband connections. The service is now available on flights to most of QR’s destinations in the Americas and Australia, as well as on key routes across Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.

Beyond the passenger experience, Starlink is also reshaping Qatar Airways’ internal operations. Real-time connectivity enables instant flight and roster updates to crew devices, improves coordination between cabin crew and ground teams during medical or service-related events, and enables engineering teams to monitor in-flight entertainment systems in real time, allowing issues to be addressed before aircraft land.

These capabilities are designed to improve decision-making, reduce delays, and enhance turnaround efficiency, extending the impact of in-flight connectivity well beyond customer-facing services.