We all know what it’s like to look at sales listings and ponder about what it would take to afford the car of our dreams. For some, they have the means to make it a reality. For others, we calculate out just how many organs we need to survive and what the value of the spare ones are on the black market!
In all seriousness, a very rare opportunity has arisen where a near gem-mint 2011 Ferrari 599 GTO, with only two owners and only 608 miles on the odometer has been placed up for sale. The original owner was Brazilian racing driver Tony Kanaan, who over four years only put 541 miles on the car. and after the end of ten years of ownership, it read just 600 miles.
The second owner was a local friend of Tony’s that bought it at the end of 2020. It was subsequently placed into a collection, gaining only 8 more miles being driven to that collection. The odometer has not gained a mile since.
So what makes this particular 599 GTO worthy of note?
Apart from the history of the ownership, it is also in the best color combination, that of Rosso Fuoco over bare carbon fiber Nero.
It is also, as per some quick research, one of the lowest mileage 599 GTO’s for sale since the car’s introduction as a special edition based on the 599XX in 2010.
It is being sold by Schaltkulisse GMBH, a specialist exotic consignment and broker dealership in Taufkirchen, Germany. The car itself is located in Miami, Florida.
It is listed as “Price On Request,” but with previous auction and sales information found out there on the internet, it is fair to expect the car to fetch over $1 million.
Planning to go on a cruise from Hong Kong aboard Resorts World One? In this comprehensive cruising guide, we’ll help you find affordable sailings, book your cruise, plan your trip, and maximize your time on board! We’ll also include prices, so you have an idea on how much budget to prepare for your next cruise!
Have you ever wondered what it feels like to go on a cruise?
No other travel style can match the comfort and pampering one could enjoy aboard a cruise ship. While most cruises are indeed expensive and luxurious, some are definitely more affordable, making them the perfect entry point for those who wish to try it for the first time. Thankfully, there’s one one super accessible cruise experience that awaits you not too far away — Resorts World One in Hong Kong.
We recently joined a familiarization trip of Resorts World One, and we loved it so much that as soon as we got home, we booked again, this time with our family. In this article, I’m sharing with you every info that I have gathered from our past sailing and while preparing for our next one.
Save these Essential Links!
Before I begin getting down to the nitty gritty of joining a Resorts World One cruise, here’s a list of links that you might want to save for easy reference in the future.
Tempted to join a cruise aboard Resorts World One? Here’s a quick rundown of what you need to know.
WHAT’S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?
BOOKING A CRUISE
Resorts World One‘s home port is Hong Kong. This means that each sailing starts and ends here, which is excellent because not only is Hong Kong accessible, it’s also a fantastic destination packed with family-friendly attractions. This means you could also have a grand time before or after the cruise. It’s also quite easy to find budget-friendly flights to Hong Kong.
From Hong Kong, the ship will sail to another destination (in most cases). Depending on what route you choose, you could also explore a completely different destination in another country like Vietnam, China, or Japan.
How to book a Hong Kong cruise?
You can book a Resorts World One cruise on Klook. Not only is the Klook website so easy to use especially if you already have a Klook account, you could also get a discount if you use our Klook promo code: THEPOORTRAVELER.
Just visit the .
What are the available routes?
Resorts World One currently plies multiple routes, starting in Hong Kong and making stops (ports of call) in these destinations:
Okinawa, Japan (5 nights)
Nha Trang and Da Nang, Vietnam (5 nights)
Manila and Boracay, Philippines (5 nights)
Sanya, China (2 nights or 3 nights)
If you’re more interested in the ship rather than another destination, you could also go on a 2-night weekend getaway aboard Resorts World One. The ship will be in high seas the entire time and won’t be making any stop elsewhere. It will just sail back to Hong Kong after. This is also the most budget-friendly option, making it ideal for those who just want to try cruising.
On our most recent sailing, our ports of call were Nha Trang and Da Nang in Vietnam, which was fantastic because I had never been there before. This wasn’t our first sailing with this particular cruise ship. We have been onboard twice before, back when it was still Superstar Virgo, which was designed with the Asian market in mind. In 2019, after a major refit, it was reintroduced as Explorer Dream. Most recently, after Resorts World Cruises took over operations, it is now known as Resorts World One, with Hong Kong as its homeport for now.
I didn’t realize it at first. The makeover gave it a new, fresher, cleaner look. But its heart and soul remain the same. Resorts World One’s workforce is 80% Filipinos, which are undoubtedly the best workers both in seafaring and hospitality industries. This also makes it an ideal first-time cruise experience for Pinoys. While the majority of the market is from Hong Kong and mainland China, being surrounded by Pinoy staff will make you feel right at home.
How much is a Resorts World One cruise?
You could go on a cruise for as low as HKD 1250 (USD 159.75, PHP 9080) per person, as of this writing.
This rate is for one person who is part of a group of four (4), staying in an Interior Room, on a 2-night Hong Kong-Sanya sailing. The price of the Interior room including port charges for 4 pax is HKD 5000 (USD 639, PHP 36,320). Divide that by four, and you’ll get the price above.
Total cost for 4 pax (Interior room with port charges)
If you’re a couple or a group of two (2), the cheapest I found is an interior room also on a Hong Kong-Sanya sailing at HKD 3400 per room (USD 434.52, PHP 24,690). Per person, that’s HKD 1700 (USD 217.26, PHP 12,345).
Total cost for 2 pax (Interior room with port charges)
Here’s a summary:
Hong Kong-Sanya 2N Cruise Interior Room
If good for 4: HKD 5000 per room (HKD 1250 per person)
If good for 2: HKD 3400 per room (HKD 1700 per person)
These are the cheapest rates I found at the moment. But note that the price of the cruise depends on four factors: the booking date, the travel date, the route, and the stateroom you choose.
Let’s talk about booking dates first. Much like flights, pricing is dynamic. Cruise companies, especially Resorts World Cruises, like giving away discounts and other freebies. For example, right now, there is an Early Bird promo wherein you could have a third or fourth guest join for free. This is how I’m able to afford to cruise with family!
Different travel dates have different prices, too. Expect the dates surrounding Christmas and Chinese New Year to cost significantly higher than others.
The route matters as well. In general, longer routes cost more.
Finally, the stateroom you select determines the price of your booking.
For the latest rates, do a mock booking using the .
What is the best room to book?
There are four main types of accommodations aboard Resorts World One:
Interior Stateroom: smallest, no window
Oceanview Stateroom: with a window allowing a view of the sea
Balcony Stateroom: with a balcony
The Palace suites: the most luxurious options
We’ve seen all these types, but we’ve only tried sleeping in two of them: Oceanview and Balcony staterooms.
The Balcony Stateroom gives the best value for money. It’s not too big or too small. The balcony adds more space to move around. The Oceanview Room is good, too.
But if you have just enough budget for an Interior Room, go for it. Don’t drop the idea of cruising altogether just because you can’t afford the best rooms. In my experience, we spent most of our time outside the room — going on shore excursions, pigging out at the restaurants, and exploring other amenities.
Left: Interior Room, configuration for 4 guests; Right: Ocean view room for 4 pax.
Whatever stateroom you choose, even though you could book any of these for up to 4 guests, I highly recommend that you limit the number of guests to only 3 per room. I feel like four is “too cozy”. The fourth person’s bed is positioned awkwardly, blocking the way to the door and the restroom, which can restrict your movement. Trust me, I’ve tried the 4-pax room sharing before.
Each room is equipped with slip-on sandals, bath robes, and toiletries. If you’re not married to particular shampoo, soap or toothpaste brands, you may use what’s provided.
What’s included in the booking?
When you book a Resorts World One cruise, you already pay for the following:
accommodations
port charges (charged per person)
access to amenities like pool, gym, lounges
nightly entertainment including shows at the Zodiac Theatre
ALL meals at the 3 inclusive restaurants onboard
Yes, ALL MEALS — breakfast, lunch, dinner — provided that you dine at any of the three complimentary restaurants, which are The Lido (buffet), The Pavilion (Chinese), and Dream Dining (Western and Chinese menus). Technically, it’s unlimited, even at the non-buffet places. I’ll explain it in more detail in the Dining section below.
What’s NOT included in the booking?
Airfare to Hong Kong
Mandatory gratuities at HKD 150 per night per person
For Okinawa sailings ONLY: International tourist tax, HKD 55 (JPY 1000) per person
Meals at specialty restaurants
And of course, other purchases onboard like massage and shopping.
How to book flights to Hong Kong for your cruise?
Several airlines fly from the Philippines to Hong Kong, making it one of the most accessible destinations for Pinoys. For those joining a cruise, Philippine Airlines offers some of the most ideal flights. The timings are great, with morning HK-bound flights that arrive just in time for cruise boarding (usually done in the afternoon) and evening return flights to the Philippines.
If you decide to fly on the same day of ship embarkation and disembarkation, these flights will give you plenty of allowance. As of this writing, here’s PAL’s Hong Kong schedule:
Manila to Hong Kong (ETD-ETA)
7:50 – 10:15 — most ideal
10:10 – 12:25
15:15 – 17:40
19:00 – 21:25
Hong Kong to Manila (ETD-ETA)
11:30 – 13:40
13:25 – 15:35
19:20 – 21:25
22:45 – 00:55 (+1 day) — most ideal
Because different routes may have different timetables and changes to the schedule may happen, always double check the cruise ship’s latest boarding/disembarkation times before you book your flight.
We flew with Philippine Airlines on our most recent Hong Kong-Vietnam cruise this year and also on our Singapore-Malaysia cruise last year. One thing I really appreciate is the generous baggage allowance that automatically comes with each booking. For Hong Kong flights, check-in baggage can weigh 35 kg maximum for Economy passengers (30 kg for Economy Saver). That should cover all your cruise #OOTDs and pasalubong.
You also get a 7-kg carry-on baggage allowance on top of it.
Often, although some flights with low-cost carriers really do appear cheap, when you start adding baggage allowance, the total cost gets close (sometimes even exceeding) PAL’s prices.
Another reason we prefer PAL is its four-star service that matches the pampering and comfort that cruises are known for. We can always rely on PAL to serve delicious inflight meals and unlimited drinks on board, already included in the booking. On our last trip, the chicken sausages and chicken rice were yum yum!
That said, it’s always good practice to book a flight scheduled at least a day ahead of the sailing date. For example, if your cruise starts on a Monday, fly to Hong Kong on Sunday or earlier for your peace of mind. But if you choose to go that route, you’ll also need to book a hotel in Hong Kong. Speaking of hotels…
Top Hotels Near Kai Tak Cruise Terminal
If you prefer to fly to Hong Kong at least a day before your actual sailing, you can make things more convenient by staying at a hotel close to the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal. Here are some of the nearby hotel options.
Top Hotels Near Hong Kong Airport
You could also consider booking a hotel near the airport. This is ideal if your flight to Hong Kong is arriving at night or you plan to stay longer in the city after your cruise to visit key attractions like Disneyland and Ngong Ping 360. The hotels listed below are located close to Hong Kong International Airport and have easy access to Sunny Bay and Tung Chung stations, which are the jumping-off points to said attractions.
What are the requirements when boarding Resorts World One?
Before your trip, make sure you have the following documents:
Valid passport
2 photocopies of your passport’s bio page (same size, not enlarged)
Cruise booking confirmation (printed or digital)
HKD, USD, or credit card: The default currency onboard is HKD, but USD is accepted, too.
As of December 2023, online check in is now mandatory. To do that, just visit this page.
Is a visa needed for Okinawa and Sanya when arriving by cruise ship?
For Philippine-passport holders, no need to apply for a visa, even for Okinawa (Japan) and Sanya (China). The policy applies to tourists arriving and departing via the same cruise ship.
However, you must settle the international tourist tax (JPY 1000/pax) for Okinawa and the admin fee (RMB 10/pax) for Sanya.
These policies might change, so double check with the authorities first before your trip.
What to pack for your cruise
Each passenger can bring onboard a maximum of two (2) pieces of luggage, up to 25 kg each. Each bag must fit inside the cabin comfortably.
Bring clothes that will cover all your days and nights onboard. Personally, when I go on a cruise, I typically pack two sets of outfit per day: one casual set for exploring during the day, and another smart casual set for night time activities.
Each room also has sets of robes and indoor slippers. I wear these robes when I sleep, so I don’t bring additional clothes to sleep in. While each room is provided toiletries, I like using my own skincare, bath, and dental products.
Most ports of call are in the tropical zone, so the climate is pretty consistent. But Hong Kong experiences four distinct seasons. Bring light clothes from May to October, and warmer clothes from November to April.
What NOT to bring onboard?
weapons, firearms, ammunition, explosives, and incendiary devices
inflammable and dangerous items of any kind
extension cord
live animals of any kind
any alcoholic drink, intoxicating liquor or beverage
Is there a dress code?
Casual. Unlike some cruises that require semi-formal or at least smart casual in certain areas of the ship, Resorts World One is pretty casual all over.
T-shirt and shorts are generally accepted everywhere. A few restrictions are implemented at some restaurants and establishments, mostly prohibiting slippers or flip-flops and swim suits.
That said, it wouldn’t hurt to dress up and achieve your #OOTD goals. We packed at least 2 sets of garments a day: one set of light clothes for touring, and another for the evening shows.
ON BOARDING DAY
Where is the Resorts World One cruise terminal in Hong Kong?
Resorts World One uses the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal in Hong Kong. Here’s the full address with contact numbers:
Kai Tak Cruise Terminal 33 Shing Fung Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong +852 3465 6888 (Monday-Friday: 09:30-12:30, 13:30-18:00)
How to Get to Kai Tak Cruise Terminal
Here’s how to get from the Hong Kong International Airport to Kai Tak Cruise Terminal:
At the Airport Ground Transportation Center, board Bus A29, bound for Tseung Kwan O (Po Lam). Travel time: roughly 1 hour. Fare: HKD 44.
Alight at Ngau Tau Kok Station (Kwun Tong Road).
Transfer to Bus 5R, bound for Kai Tak Cruise Terminal. Travel time: 25 minutes. Fare: HKD 7.7.
Get off at Kai Tak Cruise Terminal stop.
Yes, the bus is the easiest mode of transportation because Bus 5R stops right in front of the cruise terminal building.
There are a few more bus routes that you could take to reach the cruise terminal, but the A29 and 5R combination is the most convenient and entails the easiest transfer.
Taking the MTR will involve multiple transfers and you’ll still end up taking the bus or taxi. The nearest MTR stop is Kai Tak MTR Station, which is a 45-minute walk away from the terminal building.
If you prefer taking a cab, taxi fare is around HKD 310 plus baggage surcharges.
How to check in and board the ship?
Check in your bags. Upon arrival at the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal’s dropoff area, walk farther into the parking area and you’ll find the baggage check-in queue. Present your passport and they will collect your bags and tag them accordingly. You’ll also be given a claim stub with your last name. The staff will take the bags straight to your room.
Enter the terminal building and follow the signs pointing to the check-in area. It’s located on the upper level. Find the check-in counters and fall in line.
Check in. Present your cruise booking confirmation and passport. You’ll be handed the following: – room card, indicating your deck number and stateroom number. DO NOT LOSE THIS CARD. It serves as your room key and your credit card. If you need to access some of the facilities or purchase anything on board, you’ll be using this card. – an assembly slip, indicating your assembly station number. – landing card, only if applicable to your route Should there be changes to the itinerary, you will be informed here.
Clear Immigration check. Once you’re checked in, follow the signs to the Immigration counters. You’ll need to present your passport and the departure card (the other page of the form you accomplished upon arrival in Hong Kong).
Board the vessel. Take the escalators down and queue for boarding. Present your mag card. The staff will also collect your passport, which will be returned to you at the end of the cruise.
Find your assembly station. Your assigned station number is indicated on the slip handed to you upon check in. Just follow the directions of the staff along the way.
Wait for your room to be ready. It may take a couple of hours, so have lunch at one of the three complimentary restaurants in the meantime. After a few hours, proceed to your stateroom. You should see your suitcase/bags right outside your door.
Don’t forget to attend drill or watch the safety demo.
That’s it. Enjoy your room and explore the rest of the ship!
DURING SAILING
What are the restaurants and other dining options on Resorts World One?
Resorts World One has three (3) inclusive restaurants. You could dine at any of these complimentary restaurants without additional charge. All these serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
The Lido Buffet. The most popular, located on Deck 12, just behind the Parthenon Pool. No reservations needed.
Dream Dining. Western and Chinese cuisines.
The Pavilion Room. Family-style Chinese restaurant.
Both Dream Dining and the Pavilion offer full-course meals (appetizer, soup, main course, dessert) with limited selection of drinks, usually coffee and tea. Other drinks will be charged to your room.
Duck Breast Salad Appetizer at Dream Dining (Western menu)Steak at Dream Dining (Western Menu)Main dish (lunch) at Dream Dining (Western menu)Main dish at Dream Dining (Chinese Menu)
Aside from inclusive restos, there are also specialty dining options. At these restaurants, any order will be charged to your room.
We were able to try the following:
Donburi set at Umi Uma
Umi Uma Japanese (donburi and sushi) Deck 8 Mid – We ordered donburi delights. Each order is composed of two main dishes and sides. I had chirashi don and tori katsu don.
Blue Lagoon Asian dishes Deck 7 Mid, just beside the main lobby – We didn’t get to sample much of the menu because we would go here for the drinks. We got to try the salted egg fish skin, which we couldn’t get enough of!
Matcha Ice Matcha-flavored drinks and desserts Deck 7 Mid, just beside Blue Lagoon – I had the matcha caramel latte (HKD 35). The matcha flavor was a bit more subtle than I expected. I also got to try the matcha brownie.
Matcha Mochi at Umi UmaDrink menu at Matcha Ice
Other food establishments that are available but we didn’t get to try include:
Mozarella Ristorante and Pizza Italian pizza bar Deck 7 Mid
Silk Road Chinese food, fine dining Deck 7 Mid
Palm Court Lounge with view and access to the Captain’s Bridge observation room Served drinks and a few snacks Deck 12 Fwd
Seafood Grill Mostly drinks, with live music at night Deck 13 Fwd, above the Parthenon Pool
Some sailings also do a BBQ Night, where the parthenon pool area on Deck 12 turns into a giant barbeque party. It’s buffet-style with no extra charge, too.
What are the attractions and activities on board?
Zodiac Theater
Zodiac Theatre, one of the best assets of Resorts World One is its nightly shows, mostly a variety of graceful dances and daring exhibitions. They’re incredibly entertaining, especially the Rhythm and Balance show on the first night. Some performances showcase the talents of the ship’s crew. It has 800 seats so you may simply walk in without a reservation. But we still recommend arriving early to get the best middle seats. Deck 7 Aft.
Parthenon Pool, the centerpiece of the main pool deck. Its Greek theme is a remnant of its Superstar Virgo days, but the entire area is painted white almost all over, giving it a cleaner, classier look. It’s open to everyone. Located on Deck 12.
Parthenon Pool
Caesar’s Slide, a loooong, swirling slide with some transparent parts, making it more exciting. It’s located next to the Parthenon pool. Deck 12.
The Boutiques, lanes of duty-free shops on Decks 7 and 8, selling mostly fashion accessories and jewelry.
The Boutiques
ESC Experience Lab. The ship’s arcade. Enjoy your favorite games and virtual reality thrills.
The Zone. If you’d rather play board games and console games instead.
RW@Sea. If you’re interested in the other type of “gaming”, if you know what I mean. Deck 7 and 12.
Gym. We packed gym clothes but we failed to use them because we would already average 15,000 steps per day just by joining the shore excursions.
Captain’s Observation Lounge, a mini-museum below Palm Court, where you could learn more about the ship and see the captain and his officers at work on the Captain’s bridge.
Captain’s Observation Lounge
Grand Piazza. This is the ship’s main lobby. Some times, it hosts bingo games; other times, a karaoke music night venue. It also transforms into an open cinema on some days. And on the last day of sailing, it’s where the ship’s grand sale happens where up to 80% discounts are up for grabs.
Grand SaleGrand Piazza (Main Lobby)
What are shore excursions?
This is the part where you can get off the ship and explore the ports of call (city where it is docked).
Depending on your route, Resorts World One may stop at the following:
Nha Trang and Da Nang in Vietnam
Sanya in Hainan, China
Manila and Boracay in the Philippines
Naha and Miyakojima in Okinawa, Japan
Note: The 2N Hong Kong Weekend Getaway sailing does not make any port of call.
At every stop, Resorts World One offers various pre-arranged tours called Shorex (shore excursions). But you’re not required to book with them. You could also pull a DIY (do it yourself). It’s completely up to you.
If you book a shorex, you will be joining the rest of the cruise passengers who booked that tour. The great thing about it is that you have everything taken care of for you. You will have a tour guide and a few members of the crew will join the group. They will make sure you’re back at the port in time for sailing. Meals are also often included.
If you pull a DIY, you have complete control of your time and it’s going to be cheaper. However, make sure you’re back by the prescribed time because the ship will NOT wait for you.
What to remember when getting off the ship for an excursion?
Whether you’re exploring independently or joining a shore excursion, take note of the cut-off time. It’s also displayed on the screens all over the ship. It changes per stop. READ IT, UNDERSTAND IT, REMEMBER IT. Bear in mind that the time zone may also change, so keep the ship’s time in mind. You have to be back on board before that cut-off time.
You won’t have your passport with you when you get off the ship, so make sure you have the following with you:
stateroom card
a photocopy of your passport
landing card (if applicable)
This is what the landing card for Vietnam looks like. Other destinations may or may not have something similar. Ask the staff to be sure.
You’ll also need your stateroom card when boarding the ship again, so don’t forget it.
CHECKING OUT & DISEMBARKATION
What to do before the end of the cruise?
Most of the time (but not all the time), disembarkation is done in the morning you arrive in Hong Kong. But for a smoother disembarkation experience, there are some things you’re advised to do the day before.
Claim your passport. The day before you arrive in Hong Kong, you can claim your passport at the elevator lobby of your deck.
Pack your bags. Your check-in bags will be collected on your last night, up to 22:00 (10 pm). Leave it outside your door and the staff will pick it up. I usually pack all my things except the clothes I’d be wearing the next day and some toiletries.
Settle your bill. You’ll have to pay the mandatory gratuities or tips and othe purchases you made on board before you disembark. If you feel like you won’t be buying anything else, you could already settle your account the night before to avoid the long queues in the morning.
How to disembark
On the last day, you could still have breakfast while waiting to get off the ship. And when it’s time to disembark, here’s how:
Go to Deck 7 and follow the instructions of the staff to the gangway. Upon exiting, a staff member will scan your stateroom card or your passport.
Undergo immigration check for arrival clearance. You’ll be re-entering Hong Kong, so you’ll be facing another Immigration Officer.
Once cleared, make your way to the luggage claim area and pick up your bags. The bags are sorted by deck. Most bags look alike, so double check if you have the right one.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is there wifi onboard? What are the rates?
Yes, you could avail of the ship’s wifi packages on board. Here are the rates:
STANDARD (Basic Speed) Good for e-mail, chat, social media
Full cruise, 1 device: HKD 295
Full cruise, 2 devices: HKD 545
Full cruise, 3 devices: HKD 730
Full cruise, 4 devices: HKD 895
PREMIUM (Full Speed) Good for media/video streaming + email, chat, social media
Full cruise, 1 device: HKD 395
Full cruise, 2 devices: HKD 745
Full cruise, 3 devices: HKD 980
Full cruise, 4 devices: HKD 1,195
24 hours, 1 device: HKD 148
Is tipping required?
Yes. At the end of the cruise, you will have to pay the mandatory gratuities (tips), which cost HKD 150 per night per person.
Because of this, you’re not required to give any more tips to the staff. That said, if the service of the waiter at a restaurant or your room attendant has been more than satisfactory, feel free to tip. I’m sure it would be appreciated by the staff.
What type of electrical sockets are used on board Resorts World One?
The ship is equipped with universal 220V outlets that can accommodate most types of plugs. It looks like this:
USB ports are also available.
How to get back to airport from the cruise terminal?
Here’s the easiest way to get from the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal to Hong Kong International Airport:
Board Bus 5R bound for APM Millennium City 5 (D1). Travel time: 15 minutes.
Walk to Tsun Yip Lane; Kwun Tong Road Bus Stop. It should take around 2 minutes.
Ride Bus A29 bound for the airport. Travel time: roughly 1 hours. Fare: HKD 44.
Get off at the airport.
What are the attractions near the cruise terminal?
Airside, a brand new 47-story commercial complex including a massive shopping mall housing countless shops, restaurants, and cafes. It also features an immersive exhibition that showcases the history of the district, from its time as Hong Kong’s main airport. It’s a great shopping stop after your cruise and before you hit the airport.
Kai Tak Sky Garden, an aviation-themed garden featuring over 8- species of plants, mostly trees and shrubs scattered across three zones: the Garden Plaza, the Fountain Plaza, and the Lawn Plaza. It occupies what used to be the Kai Tak Airport’s runway.
Kwun Tong Promenade, a scenic 1-km waterfront in New Kowloon, not too far away from the cruise terminal. Here you’ll find an amphitheater, a children’s playground, viewing pavilions and a musical fountain.
Nan Lian Garden, a beautiful oasis in the middle of the vast urban jungle that is Hong Kong. It’s a classical Tang-Dynasty-style garden just next to Chi Lin Nunnery. It’s adorned with manicured trees surrounding a tranquil pond straddled by a vermillion bridge that leads to a small pagoda. You’ll also find various galleries inside its buildings. The garden is open from 07:00 to 21:00, but the exhibits are open from 10:00 to 17:00. Entrance is FREE.
Good morning! It’s Tuesday, January 16, 2024, and this is The Morning Shift, your daily roundup of the top automotive headlines from around the world, in one place. Here are the important stories you need to know.
In 2023, Tesla was the eighth best-performing stock in the S&P 500. So far this year, it’s the eighth worst. From Bloomberg:
The company has lost more than $94 billion in market valuation in just the first two weeks of 2024. It’s not hard to figure out why, as the Austin, Texas-based EV maker has been pounded by a barrage of negative news: an about-face on EVs from the car rental giant Hertz Global Holdings Inc., yet another price cut for its cars made in China, and signs of rising labor costs.
[…]
“Investors’ main concern on Tesla is stagnating growth,” Cowen analyst Jeffrey Osborne said in an interview. The price cuts in China only fan those concerns, because it is starting to look like “a race to the bottom for the EV industry given intense competition in that market.”
The hit to Tesla’s market capitalization to start the year is the biggest the company has seen over a similar period since it went public in 2010. In percentage terms, Tesla’s 12% drop since the start of January is the worst since 2016, when the stock fell 14% over the first nine trading days of the year.
To make matters worse, the odds of an imminent turnaround for the EV maker don’t look good.
Tesla has been cutting prices on its cars aggressively since early 2023 in an effort to boost demand. But the result has been a steady erosion of its once-hefty profit margin. Tesla’s automotive gross margin ex-regulatory credits for the third quarter fell to 16.3% from 27.9% a year ago. And the pressure is only mounting, now that production workers at Tesla’s US plants are getting pay raises.
CEO Elon Musk is obviously taking a pretty big personal hit because of this news. Don’t worry, he’s still the world’s richest person (and he gained more wealth than anyone in 2023), but he has seen his net worth shrink by $23 billion so far this year. How will the poor guy afford rent?
2nd Gear: Lamborghini Sold Over 10,000 Cars In 2023
Supported by the success of its Urus SUV, which now costs over 230,000 euros ($250,000), Lamborghini has in recent years expanded its output, relying on solid demand from wealthy car lovers.
The carmaker, a subsidiary of Germany’s Volkswagen, delivered a total of 10,112 sports cars and SUVs last year, up from over 9,200 vehicles in 2022, a slide attached to Winkelmann’s post showed.
Rival Ferrari, which will release 2023 data later this year, including those on car sales, shipped more than 13,200 cars in 2022.
Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) was the region that saw the biggest increase in deliveries for Lamborghini last year, with a 14% rise to nearly 4,000 vehicles, the slide showed. Sales in the America region rose 9% to 3,465, while they grew 4% in the Asia Pacific region to 2,660.
Lamborghini’s range also includes two super-sports cars, the Huracan 10-cylinder and the Revuelto 12-cylinder, its first plug-in hybrid model, which was presented last year. The line-up is set to become all hybrid in the course of 2024, with the new Urus and a new car replacing the Huracan.
This is really heartwarming news to read as I look over my student debt payments from my tiny one-bedroom apartment.
3rd Gear: Musk Wants 25 Percent Voting Control At Tesla
That works out to be nearly double his current stake of 13 percent. You may remember that Musk did at one point own more of Tesla, but he sold off billions of dollars in shares in 2022 to help finance his $44 billion purchase of Twitter. Business genius, this guy. From Reuters:
Musk said on Monday in a post on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, that unless he got stock in the world’s most valuable automaker that was “enough to be influential, but not so much that I can’t be overturned”, at Tesla, he would prefer to build products outside of the electric-vehicle manufacturer.
He has long touted Tesla’s partially automated “Full Self-Driving” software and its prototype humanoid robots but the electric-vehicle maker generates most of its revenue from its automotive business.
Some analysts have also pegged the technologies, including Tesla’s Dojo supercomputer to train AI models, as drivers of the EV maker’s valuation, with Morgan Stanley analyst Adam Jonas saying in September that Dojo could boost its market value by almost $600 billion.
[…]
In a separate post on X, he said he would be fine with a dual-class share structure to achieve his goal of getting 25% voting control, but was told it was impossible after Tesla’s initial public offering.
To make matters more, let’s say, interesting, Musk is currently facing a lawsuit over his compensation package. Two Tesla shareholders sued Musk and the board in 2018 in an attempt to prove he used his dominance over Tesla’s board to get a larger pay package that did not require him to work at the EV maker full-time.
4th Gear: Hyundai Offering EV Tax Credit Cash Bonus
The discounts apply to the Ioniq 5, Ioniq 6 and Kona Electric, and the month-long incentive will last through Jan. 31, according to the Korean automaker’s website. Hyundai’s EVs couldn’t meet the requirements under the clean vehicle tax credit program, which aims to encourage domestic production of EVs and components.
Without any operational EV factory in the United States, Hyundai is building an EV plant in Georgia that could start assembly as soon as the end of 2024. Hyundai and affiliate Kia sold a total of 69,259 battery-powered vehicles in U.S. in 2023, the second-biggest EV maker behind Tesla Inc., according to BloombergNEF.
Few vehicles are eligible for the credits, however, and the list of qualifying car models may shrink further due to tough rules pushing automakers to reduce their reliance on Chinese suppliers for parts.
The Biden administration is looking to revive American industry while tilting the economy away from fossil fuels. The IRA also intersects with a separate national security objective: to free the US and its allies, as much as possible, from dependence on supply chains it sees as vulnerable to China.
Greece is an incredible country to visit and one of Europe’s most beautiful areas to visit. With its iconic Greek islands, long history and the yummiest Greek Food, there literally thousands of the best places in Greece to visit. That being said, you won’t be able to do them all in one trip! 😉
This is why I wanted to share some of my very favourite and best places in Greece that you should think of exploring. Some are tiny little islands, whilst others are historic fishing villages that I’m hoping you’ll love.
You see, the thing with Greece is that lots of visitors just go to visit the stunning Greek islands, and rightly so! Honestly, they are incredible and one of my favourite areas in Greece.
That being said, there’s so much more to Greece than just the islands. This is why I’ve tried to show off a few mainland places you might not have considered.
Take a look below at some of the best places in Greece to visit. Oh, and if you’re looking for a little travel buddy (that’ll taste test all your Ouzo and feta, then count me in! 😉
1.) Meteora
Meteora is easily up there as one of the best places in Greece if you want to see something totally unique. Perched high up in the Pindus Mountains, Meteora is a vast complex of monasteries that stand hundreds of metres high.
Apparently, religious settlers used these spots for over a thousand years, with the construction of the monasteries beginning during the Ottoman Empire expansion (sometime in the 15th Century). Due to the threat of persecution, the monks sought refuge in remote locations and this is how Meteora was formed.
Now, the original way into the monasteries was to climb a series of ladders tied together or be dragged up the mountain in a large net (tricky, I know). Thankfully, today you can gain access by a much easier method, steps have been carved into the rock and a bridge connects to a nearby plateau.
There were at its peak 20 monasteries here, now there are just 6, 5 for men and 1 for women. Great Meteora is the largest of these and one you certainly shouldn’t miss. Now, to get here, you either need to fly into the Ioannina National Airport (about 120km away) or take the direct train from Athens to Kalambaka.
Now, remember I said that there are some stunning Greek islands to visit? Well, Kefalonia is one of them, with two natural wonders you have to see.
Both the Drogarati Cave and Melissani Lake are some of the best places in Greece to visit if you want to see something a little different.
Best of all, they are close together so they can easily be both visited in one day.
Now, the lake was named after excavations in 1951 and 1962 revealed some Minoan illustrations of the god Pan and the nymph Melissanthi, showing that the lake has been used for centuries.
The lake was created when a huge underground cavern collapsed, leaving a large circular opening to the surface for us all to enjoy.
Afterwards, chill out at Petani Beach, spot Mount Ainos and wander the shores of Fteri Beach. They are stunning.
Perched on the mountain of Parnassus, Delphi is one of the best places in Greece to explore ancient history. After all, at one point, Delphi was the centre of the world to ancient Greeks who came to worship here.
Once you’re here, make sure to visit the Temple of Apollo that was home to the Oracle. Oh, and don’t forget to see the Athena Treasury and the ancient stadium, too.
It really is a special place to see and easily visited (2.5-hour drive) from the centre of Athens itself.
Now, there are lots of things to do on Zakynthos but probably one of the most famous is visiting Navagio Beach. It really is one of the best places in Greece for views and an incredible vista.
To be honest, the only way to access the beach is from the sea as the beach is surrounded by very steep cliffs that can be dangerous.
With that in mind, always take care at the top and never take unnecessary risks for a photo. One of the easiest ways to visit is by taking a boat trip that can be arranged in most hotels and nearby.
Just make sure to go early in the day (if you can) as it can get pretty busy as times goes on.
Afterwards, hop over to visit the Keri Caves (via a boat tour), see the Agios Dionisios Church and stop for dinner at the Greek Traditional Cafe Ouzeri. They make the best moussaka.
Part of the Greek Cyclades, Andros island is not quite as well-known as the likes of Santorini or Mykonos. That being said, it shouldn’t be bypassed, especially if you want a slice of authentic Greek life.
Once here, make sure to explore Vitali Beach, see the Monastery of Panachrantos and find the Foros Cave. Afterwards, pop into Andros Town and head through the little streets and alleys, you’ll find the best Greek coffee spots and places like Endochora that have the best seafood.
6.) Argolis
Nestled within the north-eastern Peloponnese, Argolis is a historic region to visit in Greece. Now, once you’re here, make sure to visit Mycenae (that’s near Mykines).
About 4,000 years ago, Mycenae was one of the most important cities in Greek civilization and a thrive of activity. Nowadays, you can still explore the ruins and learn more about the history of this incredible spot.
Once here, make sure to see the Lion Gate, The Tomb of Aegisthus (outside the walls of the ancient city) and the Treasury of Atreus. It really is one of the best places in Greece to visit if you love ancient history.
Oh, and of course, don’t forget to partner this region with a trip to the theatre of Epidavros, too.
Talking of history, Athens is easily one of the most famous cities from the ancient Greek empire. Nowadays, the capital has quite a few more people and lots more buildings, but there’s still a shed load of ancient locations you have to visit and see whilst you’re here.
As soon as you arrive, make sure to visit the Antikythera Mechanism, which is a 2,000-year-old computer that was the world’s first calculator. Now the small bronze instrument sits in the National Archaeological Museum of Athens and is well worth seeing.
Of course, afterwards, make sure to head across to the Acropolis and Parthenon that’s iconic in Greece.
If you’ve got time, also make sure to pop by the neighbourhood of Plaka that’s filled with cute little tavernas and gorgeous coffee shops. There’s also a quite a few temples and Anafiotika area of Athens that almost feels like you’ve been whisked away to the Greek Islands.
Oh, and don’t forget the Temple of Olympian Zeus and the Odeon of Herodes Atticus that’s well over 2,000 years old.
8.) Crete
Crete is easily one of the best places in Greece to visit for an island adventure, but also want to explore a few cities, too. It’s the kind of island that has a little bit of everything, meaning that there’s always something to suit each person you’re travelling with.
For instance, in the north of the island of Crete and close to the city of Heraklion is the ruins of the city of Knossos. It is a city that has been dated to 7000 BC and is said to be one of the oldest cities in Europe.
Afterwards, pop over to Spinalonga Island, go for a swim at Seitan Limania Beach and gorge at one of the little cafes in the Venetian Harbour of Chania.
Santorini is probably one of the most famous Greek islands to visit. That being said, it’s famous for a reason… it’s totally beautiful.
Once here, make sure to head to Oia and watch the gorgeous sunset over the Aegean Sea. Plus, if you fancy a little treat, book yourself into the cliff-edge Katikies Hotel that has some of the best views on the island.
Also, don’t forget to pop over to Santo’s Winery, hike up the volcano and take a stroll around Fira. It really is one of the best places in Greece to see, especially if you want that white-washed typical Greek island vibe.
Named after Mount Pentelicus, Penteli is a small town that’s pretty easy to visit if you’re already in Athens. After all, it’s only around 8-10km from the city centre.
Now, one of the things that makes Penteli one of the best places in Greece to visit is the gorgeous Monastery and Rododafni Castle. The latter was built for the Duchess of Plaisance and took well over 100 years to complete.
Also, much of ancient Athens (and the Acropolis) was built from the Penteli marble that was quarried from the hills themselves. Although I don’t think it’s wise to quarry for marble nowadays, you can still pop out on a few of the trails and explore the region around the town. It really is beautiful.
Plus, if you’re feeling extra adventurous, you might even be able to see the Davelis Cave in the mountain itself.
Thessaloniki is the second biggest city (after Athens) and easily one of the best places in Greece to visit if you want a little city break.
Once here, make sure to explore the Church of Agios Dimitrios, visit the White Tower and explore the Rotunda. Afterwards, pop over to the Ladadika area of the city. The whole neighbourhood is so picturesque and there are loads of little cafes and bars that make it a perfect spot to visit on a lazy afternoon.
After wandering around, make sure to stop off at Charoupi who conjure up some of the best Greek dishes from across the country. I swear you will roll outta here.
12.) Lemnos
Perched in the north of the Aegean Sea, Lemnos Island is a lesser-known island that’s a little off-the-beaten-track. That being said, it’s certainly one of the best places in Greece that not too many people have heard about.
Legends state it is where Hephaestus landed when he was thrown from Mount Olympus by Zeus. The nearby volcanoes would send lava onto the shore here and that has left some pretty cool rock formations that are cool to see.
Still, you don’t need to be a world-class geologist to be interested in this island, as Poliochni is a must-see, too. It is Europe’s oldest Neolithic city and a spot that you definitely shouldn’t miss.
13.) Epidavros
As you’ll know by now, Greece is totally filled with ancient history. For me, it’s one of the most amazing things about Greece – there are just so many preserved sites that are still worth seeing today.
Now, in my opinion, Epidavros is certainly one of the best places in Greece for history. Especially if you want to explore one of the most impressive ancient theatres in the country. Built way back in the third century BC, the ancient Theatre of Epidaurus once sat over 13,000 people and is breathtaking to see.
14.) Rhodes
The island of Rhodes is a picture-perfect Greek spot that’s actually not too far from the coast of Turkey. That being said, it’s truly Greek and is filled with loads of cute little fishing villages, ancient monuments and enough delicious Greek tavernas that you won’t wanna leave!
After exploring the medieval town of Rhodes, don’t forget to head out in a car and explore the rest of the island, too. Once here, make sure to explore the Acropolis of Lindos, see the Palace of the Grand Master or chillout at Saint Paul’s Bay.
Oh yeah, and for some of that yummy Greek food, pop into Taverna Tsambikos (in Kolimbia), it’s totally authentic and you’ll leave stuffed. Rhodes really is one of the best places in Greece to visit, especially if you want a mix of relaxing on the beach and shed loads of history.
Samos was a total surprise to me and somewhere we booked for a week-long chillout in the Greek islands.
That being said, Samos is so much more than just a stunning chillout spot in the Aegean Sea.
Once home to Pythagoras (that maths guy), it’s an island that’s steeped in history. Plus, it has a whole heap of gorgeous beaches, bays and coves to explore.
That being said, if beaches aren’t your thing, rent a car and head up into the mountains. Though be warned, the roads are windy and almost on the cliff edge at some point. I think Yaya winced a few times as we went around the corners high above the sea. 😉
Oh, and don’t forget to try some of the islands sweet Muscat wine. It’s yummy, especially after exploring one of the best places in Greece.
Perched just shy of Methoni, Costa Navarino is one of the best places in Greece to visit if you just want to relax. Perched right on the western coastline, it’s about a 2.5-3 hour drive from Athens Airport.
Once here, it’s the kind of place where you can chill out at the beach, pop into the pools and just enjoy a total break away from it all. That being said, if you do get itchy feet, head over to Methoni and visit it’s imposing castle. After all, this whole area has been influenced by the Greeks, Venetians and Ottomans over the years.
After visiting Corfu a good few times, I can easily say that there are so many gorgeous and totally cool spots to see across the island. It’s so much more than a few vibrant party spots, with a shed load of gorgeous bays and historic fishing villages to explore.
Once you’re here, make sure to explore the Cape Drastis and the beautiful rugged coastline. Oh, and make sure to pop by the Old Town of Corfu itself (Kerkyra). You’ll find plenty of little tavernas and small shops on the waterfront.
If you’re feeling like a little stroll, head over to Vlacherna Monastery, it’s a stunning monastery that sits within the sea itself. Thankfully, there’s a long walkway that’ll take you right across, with no swimming needed! 😉
For a gorgeous hotel, check in to the MarBella Corfu, it’s so sumptuous and some rooms have private pools. Yasssssss!
Perched not too far (in Greek terms) from Santorini, Mykonos is one of the best places in Greece to visit for a little taste of the islands.
It’s the kind of island that has a good mix of everything; quaint Greek charm, beautiful beaches (and sunsets), historic towns and party spots (if that’s your thing).
As soon as you arrive, make sure to visit the windmills of Kato Mili, gorge on at M-eating and stroll the Harbourfront of Little Venice.
Oh, and for a little day-trip, sail across to Delos Island, it’s got some beautiful little bays and (apparently) the birthplace of Apollo.
You’ll have probably guessed by now that there are literally hundreds of Greek islands to visit across Greece. That being said, there’s a few that stand out and have become firm favourites.
Kos is one of these islands for sure. Nestled not too far from the coastline of Turkey, Kos is easily one of the best places in Greece to visit if you want some proper chill time and to just enjoy a more relaxed Greek island.
Once here, make sure to explore the Asklepieion, which is an ancient centre for medicine (with some of the columns still standing). Also, see the gorgeous little island of Kastri and head to Agios Stefanos for a proper beach day.
2024 marks the return of the Year of the Dragon. Returning once every 12 years, this celestial creature is associated with prosperity and is a symbol of luck, strength and wisdom. The dragon is also an imperial icon that embodies life and immortality. In honour of this auspicious creature, LUXUO lists the exclusive festive releases and dynamic timepieces to usher in the Year of the Dragon — from dragon motifs to dragon figurines and every scale inbetween.
Vacheron Constantin
The Grisaille High Jewellery Dragon’s grisaille enamelling technique is objectively rare, and is a first for Vacheron Constantin in this shade of green. Having said this, the Metiers d’Art Year of the Dragon pieces are probably more appealing to more people, even just from a visual standpoint.
Piaget’s Dragon & Phoenix Collection
Piaget’s new Dragon & Phoenix capsulecollection features 10 daring designs of exceptional watches and High Jewellery pieces – topped off with a pair of extravagantly exclusive, made-to-order high jewellery cuff watches. Each creation brims with emotion and exuberance, joyfully channelling the codes of the Maison while celebrating the house’s unparalleled watchmaking savoir-faire.
Chopard’s L.U.C XP Urushi Year of the Dragon
Chopard’s L.U.C XP Urushi Year of the Dragon is an 88-piece limited edition in ethical 18-carat rose gold and boasts a 39.5 mm ethical 18-carat rose gold case. The in-house L.U.C 96.17-L calibre with micro-rotor ensures that a slender profile of just 6.80 mm can be maintained. It mingles technical savoir-faire and artistic flair delivered by Chopard Manufacture.
Hublot’s Spirit of Big Bang Titanium Dragon
Drawing inspiration from the traditional Chinese art of paper cutting, the Spirit of Big Bang Titanium Dragon layers its hands, wheels and H-shaped screws to form a 3D silhouette of an eastern dragon. Created in collaboration with the Chinese artist Chen Fenwan, this limited edition timepiece of 88 pieces is the perfect fusion of tradition and modernity, combining metaphors and symbols in the spirit of Hublot.
Bovet’s Récital 26 Chapter Two Golden Dragon
Bovet’s artisans combined an artistic sculpture with an established masterpiece of high horology. The Recital 26 Chapter Two Dragon. The result is a hand-engraved sculpture with a stunning timepiece art housing. A domed blue quartz dial displays the local time zone’s hours and minutes in the upper part of the case. The dome located at 3 o’clock displays a second time zone specifically developed for this timepiece and patented by Bovet.
IWC Schaffhausen welcomes the Lunar New Year with a special edition release of the Portugieser Chronograph. This timepiece features a 41-millimetre stainless steel case, a burgundy dial and contrasting gold-plated hands and appliques. Limited to 1000 pieces, this watch features its rotor in the form of a majestic dragon, visible through the sapphire glass case back. The chronograph is powered by the IWC-manufactured 69355 calibre, a robust and precise mechanical chronograph movement in a classic column-wheel design.
TAG Heuer’s “Limited Edition” Releases
TAG Heuer celebrates the 2024 Lunar New Year with two limited edition timepieces that merge the cultural richness of Asian heritage with TAG Heuer’s racing brand DNA. Crafted in gold and steel, these two watches pay homage to the success embodied by the Dragon while exemplifying TAG Heuer’s commitment to honoring heritage within its contemporary design. Both timepieces radiate celetial majesty with special engravings to indicate the watch’s limited release, “Limited Edition” along with “One of 300” for the steel version and “One of 50” for the more exclusive range 18K 5N pink gold version.
Envoking tattoo artistry, the BR 05 Artline Dragon watch takes on this bold personality, with its own exclusive laser engraving. By adopting this graphic code, the timepiece visually plays on light and shadow through the relative fineness and thickness of each stroke honing in on the precision of line work that is crucial to “transcending the realm of drawing to that of a metal tattoo”. On the BR 05 Artline Dragon’s dial and integrated bracelet, the decorative motif is finely engraved.
Baume & Mercier’s Riviera Chinese New Year Limited Edition
The Riviera Chinese New Year Limited Edition – Year of the Dragon comes in an exclusive pair: the Riviera Baumatic Moon-phase Date 10744 for men and the Riviera Automatic 10743 for women, both available at only 150 pieces worldwide. The men’s timepiece features a distinctive dodecagonal case which houses a high-performance Baumatic manufacture movement inside. Turn to case back and you’ll notice the dodecagonal sapphire crystal where a magnificent five-clawed golden dragon stretches its body to join the smaller dragon on the moon-phase disc as a representation of good luck.
Jaeger-LeCoultre adds a new chapter to this story of craftsmanship and artistry with the Reverso Tribute Enamel ‘Dragon’. The new timepiece pays tribute to the Year of the Dragon, and to the talents of the master enamellers and engravers in the Métiers Rares atelier of the Manufacture Jaeger-LeCoultre. Created to celebrate the Zodiac Year and made only to order, the Reverso Tribute Enamel ‘Dragon’ is testament to La Grande Maison’s vision of culture and creativity, where the artistic crafts merge with the technical expertise of the Jaeger-LeCoultre’s watchmakers.
Blancpain
In 2012, Blancpain achieved a world first when it debuted its Villeret Traditional Chinese Calendar wristwatch that spanned East-West with its combination of a complex Chinese calendar and a Gregorian date and moonphase.This year, the Manufacture enters its second 12-year cycle with the introduction of a new limited edition of this grand complication featuring a dragon engraved on the red gold winding rotor in honour of the symbol of the new lunar year. This special limited edition for the first time is carried out in red gold with a green enamel dial against a frosted background the dragon is flanked by a red ruby and a Chinese character engraving of the words “dragon” and “wood”, the element of 2024.
L’Epée’s Swiss Made Caliber 1853
The movement “Swiss Made Caliber 1853” was created entirely by L’Epée 1839, has 124 parts meticulously assembled by the L’Epée 1839’s master watchmakers. Two dragons “protect” on either side of the most precious part of a kinetic object — the gearing mechanism. The dragons with golden or palladium scale adopt mirrored postures, their serpentine body coils protectively around the horological craftmanship.
Parmigiani Fleurier
Maison Parmigiani celebrates the Year of the Wood Dragon with a magnificent restoration of a masterpiece from its Métiers d’Art collection, the “Tempus Fugit”. Inspired by the legend of the Dragon and the Pearl of Knowledge, the piece incorporates powerful symbols anchored deep in traditional Chinese culture. This piece is a reference to Parmigiani Fleurier’s vast experience in the restoration of antique clocks.
For more on the latest in luxury watch releases, click here.
The sportiest Mercedes is entering its second generation. The AMG GT has grown in size and weight but also brings more sophisticated technology with it. And more space.
Indeed, there are still cars that evoke spontaneous enthusiasm. Like the biker struggling up the winding mountain road who gives a thumbs-up as it passes. Or the schoolchildren in the village who run a few meters behind to see and hear more for longer. Or the young man in his driveway who nods in approval as it drives by. The Mercedes AMG GT 63 is a crowd-pleaser, at least on Spanish country and village roads.
The Mercedes designers have made considerable efforts with the second generation of their top model to ensure this remains the case. The AMG GT, which is built in Bremen and is scheduled for delivery from spring 2024, nearly lost some of its dynamic elegance. At 4,728 mm, it’s almost 18 centimeters longer than its predecessor, has gained seven centimeters in height, and expanded by 4.5 centimeters in width. Moreover, it’s around 300 kilograms heavier.
A deep and broad grille, narrow headlight units, and the elongated hood with two power domes contribute to the visual dynamism of the sporty coupe, as does the low rounded rear with the extendable spoiler, the long wheelbase with short overhangs, the steep windshield, and the side view without any folds and edges, as well as the voluminous wheel arches. Technically, several advancements ensure that the GT 63 drives as dynamic as it still looks.
The increase in length has certainly been beneficial for the interior space. Optionally, it is also available as a 2+2 seater. At least children should have enough space in the second row. With foldable backrests, the normally 321-liter trunk can provide up to 675 liters. The loading edge is somewhat high, but the hatch opens widely. There’s good room for taller individuals in the front row. Entry and exit through the wide-opening doors are without too much trouble, one doesn’t feel cramped despite the ample center tunnel, and the comfortable sports seats can be pushed far back.
Everything is luxurious, everything fits together. The driver’s combi-display is highly programmable, the optional head-up display shows the most important information, and the 11.9-inch display on the centre console, extending well into the dashboard, offers clear navigation and serves as the control centre for the onboard computer.
The V8 petrol engine assembled by hand in Affalterbach, as is customary for AMG, ensures ample thrust. The four-liter biturbo produces the usual 585 HP / 430 kW and a maximum torque of now 800 Nm, available from 2,500 RPM. This translates to a lot of power: it takes 3.2 seconds to go from zero to 100 km/h, with a top speed of 315 km/h according to AMG. And the force is not brutally delivered – unless one wishes: The sports car can also be delicately maneuvered while parking at the supermarket. Nonetheless, the consumption is accordingly high: Mercedes states an average fuel consumption of 14.1 liters of Super Plus, corresponding to a CO2 emission of 319 grams per kilometer. With vigorous driving, it’s even more.
Whether it’s a parking lot or a winding mountain road, to ensure that driving in the AMG GT 63 is as pleasurable as it is hassle-free, the engineers have installed plenty of technology. For instance, the rear axle, which can steer up to 2.5 degrees, allows for small turning radii and safe cornering. Mercedes has almost eliminated body roll with a sophisticated system.
In principle, the individual shock absorbers of the car are connected. The shock absorber at the front left is connected via a hydraulic line with the one at the front right. Across the vehicle, there’s also a connection to the rear shock absorbers through a line. A second circuit connects the other sides of the damper chambers. Sounds complicated? It is. But it works.
The sports car comes standard with a variable all-wheel drive, distributing the driving force between the axles from 50:50 to 100% to the rear as needed. There are six driving programs to choose from, switchable at any time with a button on the steering wheel. The nine-speed automatic transmission shifts rapidly and almost imperceptibly. For those who prefer, there are also two large paddle shifters on the steering wheel for manual shifting. As usual, all this comes at a price. The Mercedes AMG GT 63 Coupe starts at 188,704 euros, with the Plus version costing 198,557 euros – with plenty of scope for upward customization. A less equipped AMG GT will also be available as a 55 with 476 HP / 350 kW from summer 2024.
Bali is a captivating tropical paradise known for its vibrant culture, scenic landscapes, and deep-rooted traditions. From pristine beaches to delectable cuisine, this Indonesian island promises an array of experiences. Whether you’re after adventure or relaxation, immersing yourself in a rich culture, or unwinding by a pool, Bali guarantees a memorable stay. With its breathtaking nature, welcoming locals, and an array of activities – from surfing to temple exploration – you can ensure a remarkable trip without stretching your finances. Proper research and planning can eliminate any unexpected hurdles during your stay.
Ensuring an enjoyable Bali trip requires thoughtful planning. Firstly, determine the ideal time to visit based on weather and accommodation availability. Plan your budget meticulously, factoring in flights, accommodation, transportation, and activities to ensure a smooth trip. Decide if you prefer relaxation or exploration to select the perfect holiday package. Ensure all travel documents are up-to-date to avoid any unforeseen issues. With these considerations, your Balinese adventure is just around the corner!
Bali offers a myriad of lodging choices, from opulent beachfront resorts to quaint boutiques and stylish cottages. Optimal enjoyment demands wise accommodation selection, preferably proximate to major attractions. Investigate areas like Seminyak or Ubud, and scour online resources about local amenities before finalizing your stay.
Bali’s allure lies in its vast range of activities. Whether you’re trekking in Ubud’s jungles, diving near Padang Bai, or sunbathing at Kuta Beach, there’s no shortage of experiences. Traditional Balinese dances and temple visits are among the top attractions but don’t miss out on surfing at Uluwatu, culinary classes at Sidakarya market, or the panoramic views from Mount Agung. Local markets are treasure troves of vibrant clothing and crafts, further enriching your Bali experience.
Bali’s culinary landscape is a feast for the senses. The island’s dishes, marked by their intricate spice blends, range from the savory Ayam Panggang to the sweet spekkoek. Street-food favorites include satay, nasi campur, and banana fritters. Every corner of Bali presents a gastronomic delight, so indulge in both local warungs and upscale eateries.
Bali is a shopper’s dream with its traditional attire, ornaments, and crafts. Markets in areas like Kuta and Denpasar boast incredible deals, while luxury outlets cater to those seeking exclusivity. From unique trinkets to fashionable beachwear, Bali promises a shopping extravaganza. An extra suitcase might be a wise investment for your finds!
Bali’s transportation landscape is diverse. Public transit options include buses and taxis, but the more adventurous might prefer bike rentals or private vehicles. Popular ride-hailing apps, such as GoJek and Grab, offer convenient alternatives. No matter your choice, navigating Bali is a scenic journey worth savoring.
A Bali trip requires health and safety vigilance. With rising tourism, risks like dengue fever and malaria loom, making it essential to wear protective clothing and use insect repellants. Ensure you’re vaccinated, carry essential medications, maintain hygiene, and consider travel insurance to ensure a hassle-free holiday.
In summary, a Bali holiday, with proper preparation, promises a mix of relaxation, exploration, and unparalleled experiences. Amidst the adventures, don’t forget the simple joy of a beachside cocktail – the quintessence of a Bali vacation.
When Toyota’s production and sales teams met earlier this month, the production folks learned something they weren’t expecting. “The number of requests for Corolla was a bit surprising,” Andrew Gilleland, head of automotive operations for Toyota Motor North America, told industry publication Automotive News.
“The reason,” he says, is that car shoppers are “looking for an affordable entry point, and the regions are seeing the value in that.” Toyota has just a 6-day supply of its affordable, compact Corolla in the United States. Automakers aim for about a 60-day supply.
It’s not just Toyota, either. Andrew Savvas, Volkswagen’s head of U.S. sales, told AN that Volkswagen is seeing a sales surge for its entry-level Taos and Jetta models.
At Chevrolet, the recently redesigned Trax subcompact SUV, with its sub-$25,000 starting price — didn’t merely outperform expectations. It outperformed brands. Americans bought about 38,000 Trax SUVs and fewer than 36,000 Cadillacs in the third quarter. The Trax almost outsold the entire Buick lineup, too.
Americans are shopping for inexpensive cars again.
Automakers Build Many Expensive Cars, Few Inexpensive Ones
In December 2017, automakers sold 36 models priced at $25,000 or less. By December 2022, they sold just 10. Under $20,000, Americans have just five options – the Kia Rio, Kia Soul, Hyundai Venue, Mitsubishi Mirage, and Nissan Versa.
The trend isn’t irrational. Sales of new vehicles priced below $25,000 fell by 78% between 2017 and 2022.
Sales of new cars priced over $60,000 have soared, rising 163% in the same period.
Automakers responded by building more of them. In December 2017, automakers offered 61 models for sale with sticker prices of $60,000 or higher. Five years later, they offered 90.
High interest rates also contributed to a market where only high-income, strong-credit buyers could easily shop for new cars.
Automakers tailored their lineups to chase those buyers.
The Federal Reserve spent much of 2023 raising rates to put the brakes on inflation. It stopped in July but continued issuing cautionary statements that it was willing to raise rates further if that’s what it took to bring prices under control.
“At the beginning of the year, the interest rates weren’t as high. Customers were looking for vehicles [with] more equipment,” Judy Wheeler, Nissan Division’s U.S. sales and regional operations vice president, told AN.
“Because of that, we probably got too high on [supply of] some vehicle lines.”
But interest rates have begun to fall. The Fed hasn’t lowered rates. But, with its new policy of stability, lenders are lowering them themselves.
That’s calling to shoppers who avoided dealerships during the worst of the inflation spiral.
“There are still consumers that didn’t buy a car in the last two years,” Volkswagen’s Savvas says, “and they’re back in the market.”
“Improved confidence about the economy and relatively strong jobs market with increasing wages, coupled with slightly better financing conditions, will help the new-vehicle market grow modestly in 2024,” says Cox Automotive senior economist Charlie Chesbrough.
A redesigned Infiniti QX80 is due for the 2025 model year and a prototype has been spotted for the first time.
Infiniti already provided a taste of the new flagship SUV’s styling with the reveal of the QX Monograph concept during 2023 Monterey Car Week last summer.
The prototype confirms the new QX80’s design will be very close to that of the concept. Key details include the more chiseled appearance compared to the curvier current generation, and Infiniti’s new corporate grille is also clearly visible.
The headlight design takes on a split theme, with a thin strip of LED daytime running lights (Infiniti calls them digital keys) positioned at the edge of the hood and the main projectors positioned lower in a vertical element that also houses intakes.
Infiniti QX Monograph concept
The rear is heavily camouflaged but on the QX Monograph concept, this section was marked by taillights that run the width of the body. This is also likely to be the case with the QX80.
The new QX80 will be the third iteration of Infiniti’s full-size SUV, and it won’t go down the EV route just yet. It is expected to use an updated version of Nissan’s F-Alpha body-on-frame platform that can be traced back to the original Infiniti QX56 launched almost two decades ago.
Redesigned versions of Nissan’s Armada and Patrol twins are being developed alongside the new QX80. As is the case with the current generation, the new Nissan SUVs will be closely related to the new QX80, including sharing its platform and powertrain. The latter is thought to be a twin-turbocharged V-6 in place of the V-8 fitted to the current generation of the SUVs.
Infiniti QX Monograph concept
There’s no shot of the interior but citing a person familiar with Infiniti’s product planning, Automotive News (subscription required) reported two years ago that the new QX80 will be made more upscale than the current generation to help further differentiate it from the related Armada and Patrol duo, as well as provide better competition for the likes of the Cadillac Escalade and Lexus LX.
The dashboard is expected to incorporate digital screens for both the instrument cluster and infotainment hub, a feature that has become commonplace in the industry. Infiniti also announced during this month’s 2024 CES that a 24-speaker Klipsch audio system will feature.
Given the 2025 model year timing, a debut by this summer is a strong possibility.
Sometimes something extremely rare and collectible becomes available for purchase. Baseball cards, artwork, rare wines, they all have their own specific enthusiast collectors. For the enthusiast supercar collector, however, the combination of the word “Ferrari” with the numbers “250” immediately perks every ear and eyebrow in the room up.
While this isn’t the 250 GTO, up for sale is a still extremely rare 250 Europa GT Coupe from 1955. Unveiled in 1954 at the Paris Motor Show, this was the version of the 250 that was designed not to win the Targa Florio, but to be driven there in enormous comfort and luxury while still having a bit of a beast under the hood.
It is a beast, as the 250 Europa GT was one of the first Ferrari models to carry the revered Tipo 112 3.0L Colombo V12, with approximately 215 HP at the flywheel.
What makes this particular example extremely collectible is that out of the 43 Ferrari 250 Europa GT’s that left the factory, it was one of only two built with an aluminum body, known as the “Alloy Competizione.” Chassis 0387 was the 16th built of those 43, and was built to spec for one of Ferrari’s most famous VIP clients, His Royal Highness Prince Bernhard of the Netherlands. It is even in his preferred black color, specified as Nero over Pelle Naturale.
Even better for the collector, the car is completely numbers matching. Engine, transmission, chassis, and body are all the original pieces that left the factory. It has undergone a recent restoration by Ferrari specialists Grant Touring Enterprises, in the hands of Patrick Ottis and Chuck Wray, their two most experienced and skilled technicians. Total receipts for all the work done were around $300,000, as it was a top to bottom, road to roof restoration.
It has had a mild engine rebuild for new valves and a restored top end in 2010 from Goinin Moteurs of France, and also had a paint refresh (note: Not a repaint, just a refresh) at the same time.
Other than those two touch ups, it has been carefully stored and driven sparingly to keep all the oil moving and the parts working, meaning that it is fully road worthy. However, with just 56,542 KM (35,134 miles) on the clock, it’s only averaged 819.5 KM (509.2 miles) per year since leaving the factory.
While you could drive it, with something this rare, we think the only trips it should take are from the transport truck to its place at Pebble Beach’s Concours d’Elegance! The car is being sold through Schaltkulisse GMBH out of Germany, a specialty consignment and broker dealership for supercars and rare exotics, with the car itself located in Miami, Florida.
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