Latest news with #Aldabra
Axios
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Axios
Indianapolis weekend events: Aldabra Tortoises return, Pacers, Fever and more
It seems like everyone in Indy has the need for speed. Yes, but: For those who prefer to take it slow, we've got the perfect recommendations for fun away from the hustle and bustle of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. What's happening: Step into the city's slowest pit stop to see the giant Aldabra tortoises make their return to the Indianapolis Zoo this Memorial Day weekend. Two males and three females are joining the zoo family, with two of them being welcomed back to the Circle City after calling the facility home in the ' 90s and 2000s. Their permanent home is still being built, so they're spending their time in an exhibit space called "The Pit Stop" near the flamingoes. If you go: 1200 W. Washington St. Open 9am-5pm Monday-Thursday and 9am-7pm Friday-Sunday. Memorial Day hours will be extended until 7pm. Tickets start at $32. Here are the rest of our weekend picks: 🏁 Make your own checkered flag Indy 500 paperweight out of glass during a class at Glass Arts Indiana, 1pm Friday. Tickets start at $75. 🎸 Head south to Bean Blossom for three days of music, workshops and vibes during The Americana Bean Jamboree at Bill Monroe's Memorial Music Park & Campground, 5-9pm Friday and Saturday. 🏀 See the Indiana Fever take on the New York Liberty, 1pm Saturday. Tickets start at $32. 🎵 Enjoy the return of Moon Drops Distillery's free summer concert series when local band The Two Jasons hit the stage, 7pm Saturday. 🤘 Witness Puscifer, Primus and A Perfect Circle coming together on the Sessanta tour, 8pm Saturday at Ruoff Music Center. Tickets start at $54. 📣 Cheer on some ultimate frisbee action when the Indianapolis Alleycats host the Detroit Mechanix at Kuntz Stadium, 6pm Saturday. ⛹️ See if the Pacers can topple the Knicks in Game 3 of the NBA Eastern Conference Finals at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, 8pm Sunday.
Listly
05-04-2025
- Listly
Things to Remember When Travelling to the Seychelles with Kids - Create Unforgettable Memories!
The Seychelles is home to several attractions that cater to families with children, making it a perfect destination for young explorers: Morne Seychellois National Park: Opt for an easy nature trail where kids can spot unique plants and wildlife, including the giant Seychelles fruit bat. Victoria Botanical Gardens: Located in Victoria, this garden is a great place to see exotic flora and interact with giant Aldabra tortoises. Curieuse Island: Accessible via a boat trip, this island is famous for its giant tortoise sanctuary and kid-friendly walking trails through mangrove forests. These destinations combine fun, education, and the beauty of Seychelles, keeping kids entertained while offering something for everyone.
Web Release
26-03-2025
- Web Release
Unforgettable Eid Escapes Await at Four Seasons' Most Iconic Locations
As the end of the holy month swiftly approaches, an array of Four Seasons' breathtaking destinations is here to make your Eid Al Fitr one to remember. Whether you're seeking relaxation or to fully immerse yourself in the celebration, there is a property to delight every guest with locations spanning the UAE, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Seychelles. To make your stay even more memorable, each of these exceptional destinations invites guests to relish a myriad of exclusive stays, exquisite dining, wellness journeys, and Eid-inspired experiences. Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh Stretching from the desert to the sea, Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh offers year-round sunshine, sleek modern accommodations, and panoramic Red Sea views, making it an idyllic setting for Eid Al Fitr. Elevate your Eid celebrations with exclusive dining experiences that showcase Egypt's diverse culinary heritage in a setting of world-class elegance. Unforgettable Family Eid Escape Escape to a world of luxury and Red Sea adventures this Eid at Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh with an unforgettable stay for the whole family and enjoy 15% off. Thrill-seekers can dive into a world of aquatic adventure, with world-class diving, snorkelling, and kayaking, or explore the vibrant coral reefs and colourful marine life on a submarine excursion. For those seeking relaxation, the property also boasts a pristine private beach and four sparkling pools to bask in the spring sunshine. Promising adventure and rejuvenation in equal measures, there is truly something to delight all ages this Eid at Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh. When: Throughout Eid Al Fitr Offer: 15% off stays *For bookings and more information, please click here ?or e-mail [email protected] . Four Seasons Resort Seychelles at Desroches Island Tucked away in the Indian Ocean, just a short flight from Mahé, Four Seasons Resort Seychelles at Desroches Island offers the ultimate private island escape. As the only resort on this lush coral atoll, guests can unwind in beachfront villas and residences surrounded by unspoiled nature. With over 70 experiences to enjoy, ranging from jungle trails to vibrant reef snorkelling, it's a dreamy setting for both romantic getaways and unforgettable family adventures this Eid. Farm-to-Fork Experience This Eid Al Fitr, embark on a sensory journey into the heart of island living with the immersive Farm to Fork experience at Four Seasons Resort Seychelles at Desroches Island. Begin your adventure with a scenic buggy ride through lush tropical landscapes, stopping to visit the island's resident giant Aldabra tortoises before arriving at the organic gardens, where you'll handpick ingredients like papaya, basil, aubergine, and mint alongside the resort's chefs. Back at the open-air kitchen, step into the shoes of a Seychellois chef as you prepare a fragrant Creole curry from scratch, all while learning the stories, traditions, and sustainable practices behind this vibrant cuisine. When: Throughout Eid Offer: Farm-to-Fork-Experience Price: EUR 90 per person *For bookings and more information, please contact +(248) 4674700 Tortoise Adoption Program Celebrate the spirit of Eid by giving back to the planet through the heartwarming Tortoise Adoption Program at Four Seasons Resort Seychelles at Desroches Island, where over 200 giant Aldabra tortoises roam freely in their natural habitat. Guests are invited to visit the Tortoise Sanctuary and 'adopt' a young tortoise, supporting its care and contributing to vital conservation efforts in a truly meaningful way. Once your adopted tortoise reaches 9kg, you'll be part of a special graduation ceremony as it's released back into the wild. When: Throughout Eid Offer: Adopt a tortoise *For bookings and more information, please contact +(248) 467470 Mountain Meditation As the holy month of Ramadan comes to an end, Four Seasons Resort Seychelles at Desroches Island presents an idyllic retreat to reflect on the season and find your inner balance. To help you on your wellness journey and connect with the resort's breathtaking surroundings, guests are invited on a one-of-a-kind Mountain Meditation experience. Beginning with a 30-minute hike to the mountaintop, learn about the island's rich history as a fruit and spice plantation from your expert guide before settling into a grounding meditation session, surrounded by ancient granite boulders and rose quartz crystal rocks, creating a truly serene and restorative space. When: Throughout Eid Offer: Educational mountain hike and guided meditation *For bookings and more information, please contact +(248) 4674700 Coral Restoration with Wise Ocean Dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean and explore the vital role coral reefs play in the underwater ecosystem alongside expert marine biologists from WiseOceans. Learn about the effects of climate change and discover how simple, sustainable choices can make a difference, then get hands-on by creating your own coral nursery line. Once placed in the nursery, you'll continue to be part of the journey with updates as your corals are transplanted back into the reef. When: Throughout Eid Offer: Educational mountain hike and guided meditation Price: Starting from AED 559 *For bookings and more information, please contact +(248) 4674700 Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Center Celebrate the spirit of Eid at Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Center, a landmark of elegance and warm hospitality in Saudi Arabia's vibrant capital. Located atop the iconic Kingdom Tower, the hotel seamlessly blends authentic Saudi heritage with modern sophistication, creating a remarkable setting for reflection and celebration. A Getaway to Remember Make the most of your Eid break with specially curated room packages at Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Center. Nestled within the vibrant capital, guests can opt to mark this joyous occasion with an exclusive Ramadan Nights offer with 20% off rooms on stays of two nights or more. Alternatively, seize the opportunity to fully unwind and relish the property's warm hospitality with a complimentary third night when you book two consecutive nights. For an extra touch of indulgence, guests who book either of these packages will enjoy a complimentary upgrade to the next room category. Once you've settled into your stylish accommodation, relax with 25% off rejuvenating spa treatments or explore the hotel's world-class dining venues with 20% off dining. Additionally, make the most of complimentary valet parking and 25% off on laundry services, ensuring optimal comfort and convenience throughout your Eid getaway. When: Valid on stay from March 26th to April 5th Offer: Ramadan Nights Offer – Enjoy 20% off Room Rates with a minimum stay of two nights OR Stay Longer, Third Night Free – Complimentary third night when you book two consecutive nights Inclusions: Complimentary upgrade to the next room category (excluding signature suites, subject to availability) Complimentary valet parking 25% off on laundry services 25% off spa treatments 20% off on food & beverage (excluding Pierre Hermé) *For bookings and more information, please call 11-2115888 or visit the hotel's website . A Rejuvenating Spa Escape: Rose Aromatherapy Retreat Unwind this Eid with a Rose Aromatherapy Retreat, a 90-minute indulgence priced at SAR 1,100. Let the soothing essence of rose essential oil envelop you as expert therapists use gentle yet effective techniques to ease muscle tension, enhance circulation, and melt away stress. When: From the first day of Eid to April 15th Offer: 90-minute rose aromatherapy retreat Price: SAR 1,100 *For bookings and more information, please call 11-2115730 A Grand Eid Feast at the Kingdom Ballroom Tent Celebrate the spirit of Eid with a lavish Iftar breakfast experience at the Kingdom Ballroom Tent, where guests can indulge in an extensive array of culinary delights. From traditional Arabic flavours to international favourites, the buffet offers an exquisite selection of gourmet dishes, freshly baked pastries, and live cooking stations that ensure a truly immersive dining experience. Priced at SAR 340 per adult and SAR 170 per child, this is the perfect excuse to gather loved ones around the table. When: The first day of Eid Offer: Iftar breakfast feast featuring gourmet dishes, freshly baked pastries, and live cooking stations Price: SAR 340 per adult; SAR 170 per child *Reservations available exclusively via the ChefZ app A Parisian Touch to Your Eid Celebrations Enhance your Eid celebrations with the finest Parisian delicacies from Pierre Hermé. Treat yourself to an exclusive selection of handcrafted specialties, including the world-renowned macarons, luxurious chocolates, elegantly curated hampers, and irresistible pastries, each a masterpiece of flavour and sophistication. Offer: Handcrafted pastries *For bookings and more information, please contact 966 (11) 211-5000 Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach Unlock a world of endless possibilities this Eid Al Fitr at Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach with the waters of the Arabian Gulf on one side and Dubai's iconic cityscape on the other. Spend your days unwinding in a private poolside cabana or heading off on a desert adventure, then indulge in one of the property's exceptional dining venues such as the fresh Far Eastern flavours at Sea Fu as the waves lap nearby. Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre Set within the vibrant pulse of Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre is perfect for guests seeking to fully immerse themselves in the lively Eid celebrations. Experience Four Seasons' quintessential world-class service, state-of-the-art wellness facilities, and the most talked-about dining scene of the city such as the award-winning MINA Brasserie by Chef Michael Mina or take in unrivalled views of Burj Khalifa at Luna Dubai. Unlock Your Eid Staycation with the Resident's Key Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach and Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre warmly invite UAE residents to celebrate Eid in refined style. Perfect for those seeking coastal serenity or a glittering skyline, the secrets of your perfect staycation are revealed only when you chat with Four Seasons and mention the Resident's Key.??Simply reach out via the Four Seasons App or your preferred chat platform and let the team unveil the secret perks designed to elevate your Eid staycation. Embrace the spirit of Eid with this one-of-a-kind staycation experience, tailor-made for discerning UAE residents who will enjoy special rates on rooms and suites. Adding a touch of Four Seasons magic to your stay, residents will be greeted by thoughtful welcome amenities and enjoy perks such as complimentary breakfast and early check-in. Unwind in style with 20% off spa treatments at Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre or relish 25% off Pool Cabanas and 10% off spa treatments at Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach. ffer: Unlock exclusive perks during your stay with the Resident's Key Inclusions: Exclusive UAE resident rates on rooms and suites? Complimentary breakfast every morning? Complimentary accommodation in the parent's room and breakfast for two children under 12? 25% off Pool Cabanas at Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach? 10% off Spa treatments at Four Seasons Resort Dubai and 20% off at Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre (valid for select treatments only and cannot be combined with other offers; excludes retail products)? Early check-in (subject to availability), request at least 24 hours before arrival to confirm? A thoughtful Welcome Amenity to begin your stay on a delightful note? *For bookings and more information about Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach: Click here to chat ? *For bookings and more information about Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre: Click here to chat ? Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza Beautifully positioned on the banks of the River Nile, Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza is your gateway to explore the treasure of this historic city. Boasting an unparalleled blend of opulence and comfort, the property is home to world-class dining, an award-winning Spa, and elegantly designed rooms and suites with panoramic views of the city and the river. A Grand Eid Brunch at Zitouni Eid morning begins with a lavish buffet spread at Zitouni, featuring an array of traditional Egyptian and international delights. Indulge in slow-cooked lamb, freshly baked Baladi bread, rich mezzes, and an assortment of sweet treats, including the signature Ma'a moul. With floor-to-ceiling views of the Nile, this brunch is an elegant way to start the festivities. When: Available the first three days of Eid Al Fitr Offer: Eid Brunch *For bookings and more information, call +20(2) 27916800, [email protected], or connect through the FS Chat App A Taste of the Mediterranean at Riviera For those seeking a lighter, coastal-inspired experience, Riviera offers a refined selection of Italian coastal flavours, featuring the freshest seafood, homemade pasta, and signature dishes inspired by Italy's coastal regions served with amore by Chef Stefano Maffioli-Ferrari. The relaxed yet sophisticated ambiance with breathtaking Nile views makes it the perfect place for a leisurely Eid lunch or dinner. Offer: Signature Italian dishes *For bookings and more information, call +20(2) 27916800, [email protected], or connect through the FS Chat App Bullona: The Ultimate Celebration Dining Experience As the sun sets, Bullona transforms into a vibrant destination, where modern Mediterranean seafood flair meets Cairo's electrifying energy. Expect elevated seafood dishes, handcrafted cocktails, and an upscale ambiance that seamlessly blends fine dining with a lively social scene featuring a live DJ. Offer: Seafood dishes, handcrafted cocktails, and a live DJ *For bookings and more information, call +20(2) 27916800, [email protected], or connect through the FS Chat App An Elevated Eid Celebration at 8 Restaurant For a refined Eid celebration, 8 Restaurant invites guests to indulge in an elevated Chinese dining experience that blends authentic flavours with modern sophistication. featuring expertly crafted dim sum, signature Peking duck, and premium seafood dishes, all served in an elegant setting overlooking the majestic Nile. *For bookings and more information, call +20(2) 27916800, [email protected], or connect through the FS Chat App Lebanese Indulgence at Byblos For a taste of Levantine elegance, Byblos offers a special Eid menu featuring rich Lebanese flavours. From succulent grilled meats to signature mezze platters, every creation is served in an atmosphere of warm hospitality and sophisticated poolside charm. Offer: Lebanese Eid menu *For bookings and more information, call +20(2) 27916800, [email protected], or connect through the FS Chat App Under the Stars at Upper Deck Lounge & The Pool Eid nights at Upper Deck Lounge and The Pool promise a magical day to alfresco experience, with live entertainment, signature hubbly bubbly, and an exquisite selection of sharing plates. Whether you're enjoying a laid-back evening by the pool or a more vibrant celebration, these open-air venues provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable night under Cairo's starlit sky. Offer: Alfresco experience with live entertainment, signature hubbly bubbly, and a selection of sharing plates *For bookings and more information, call +20(2) 27916800, [email protected], or connect through the FS Chat App Luxury & Relaxation: The Ultimate Eid Retreat After a day of celebration and exploration, retreat to Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza's elegant accommodations, where spacious premium rooms and Pool Terrace Suites offer unrivalled views of the Nile and city skyline. For ultimate relaxation, the Four Seasons Spa invites guests to experience ancient Egyptian-inspired treatments, including milk-and-honey baths, herbal-infused massages, and rejuvenating wellness rituals, providing the perfect post-Ramadan renewal. *For bookings and more information, call +20(2) 27916800, [email protected], or connect through the FS Chat App
The Guardian
22-03-2025
- General
- The Guardian
Rare Wright's gardenia reappears in record numbers in Seychelles
Record numbers of Wright's gardenia, one of the world's rarest and most fragrant trees, have been counted on the tiny tropical island of Aride in Seychelles. The only place in the world where the critically endangered tree occurs naturally is on the 72-hectare granite island in the Indian Ocean. The tree was once found on other, larger islands in the Seychelles archipelago but its sturdy wood was harvested for firewood, leading to its disappearance from everywhere except Aride. A team of eight staff and volunteers for the Island Conservation Society of Seychelles, which manages Aride for biodiversity, spent 272 hours scouring the challenging terrain of the island to identify and count the rare trees. They found 2,913 trees, nearly 1,000 more than in the previous census in 2017. Some trees had more than 1,000 seedlings nearby, indicating that the species is now thriving on the island. Conservation ranger Steve Esther, a Seychellois who is stationed on the island, said: 'It's an evergreen tree which was originally on most of the granitic islands of the Seychelles but then it disappeared from the main islands. On Aride it thrived but it is a critically endangered species – at extremely high risk of extinction in the wild.' The conservationists on Aride are not certain why the tree is doing so well again but according to the conservation manager Emma Cotton, one reason is that invasive fern species have been removed, increasing the area of ground on which it can grow. 'It's really nice to see the tree's rising population after the effort we put in to count all the trees,' she added. According to Esther, the Wright's gardenias are also benefiting from a wetter climate in recent seasons on Aride, which was named by the French for being drier than the other islands. 'We often sit on the beach and see that it's raining on all the other islands but not here,' he said. 'But it's been raining a lot more in the past few years than before.' The tree's orchid-like white flowers decorated with small dots of purple and magenta bloom after the rains and spread their fragrance across the island – and the ocean. Rob Lucking, the chair of the Island Conservation Society UK charity, said: 'It's a lovely little tree. It flowers 10 days after heavy rainfall and it is very, very fragrant. You can be coming back to Aride on the boat and you can smell it half-a-mile out at sea, it's incredible.' The rangers on Aride regularly monitor a sample of the trees to check for signs of disease, attack by insect or invasive pathogens. Trees have been grown on other islands in the Seychelles archipelago to provide backup if the trees on Aride ever suffered from a catastrophe but the tree does not seem to thrive in the wild on other islands. There are hopes that it will continue to spread and prosper on Aride even more now that Aldabra giant tortoises have been translocated to the island. Ten were brought back nearly a decade ago as part of an conservation programme to re-establish these herbivorous ecosystem engineers on the island. They've recently been joined by 50 smaller young individuals of a long-lived species. The tortoises play a key role in dispersing seeds, including those of the Wright's gardenia, and as they forage bird species follow in their path to catch insects and invertebrates that they expose. The tortoises also excavate small wallows on the arid island, improving water retention and opening up water sources to birds, invertebrates and lizards.
BBC News
05-03-2025
- General
- BBC News
Leeds: Tropical World welcomes arrival of five giant tortoises
A zoo in Leeds has welcomed five giant tortoises after they outgrew their previous group of sulcata tortoises, also known as African spurred tortoises, has moved from the Blue Plant Aquarium in Ellesmere Port, Cheshire to Tropical World in are the third largest species of tortoise in the world, after the Galapagos tortoise and the Aldabra giant Hardwick, animal officer at Tropical World, said the group were all settling in well. They have been named Tank, Scoop, Dizzy, Roley and Muck."They all have coloured markings on their shells so we know who is who," said Ms Hardwick. "Tank is the biggest male and the most boisterous, he can often be seen pushing the other boys out of the way to be first to the food bowls," she new arrival comes as Tropical World, which is run by Leeds City Council, received official accreditation by the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA), after being screened by experts earlier this year. A Tropical World spokesperson said the mark of excellence recognised the high quality of the zoo in the fields of animal welfare, conservation, education and Rafique, Leeds City Council's executive member for climate, energy, environment and green space, said: "The tortoises are very impressive to look at, and we're glad to have been able to give them a new home at Tropical World."Receiving the accredited status from BIAZA is also a testament to the passion and hard work of all the staff members," he added. Sulcata tortoises have a life expectancy of more than 70 have no real known predators as adults, due to their large shell and average weight, which is around 80kg for a are the largest of all mainland tortoises and usually reside along the southern edge of the Sahara species is classed as endangered. Desertification, where land turns into desert, caused by climate change, is leading to habitat loss and competition for food. Listen to highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North.
