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Yahoo
14 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
10 stunning UNESCO World Heritage sites that were immortalized on screen
In 1989, the appearance of Petra's ancient tomb known as the Treasury [Al-Khazneh] in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade electrified moviegoers. Following the film's release, annual attendance at Jordan's formerly obscure UNESCO World Heritage Site skyrocketed—reaching nearly a million visitors by 2010. Today, the link between the haunting, rock-faced tombs and the Hollywood blockbuster continues to capture the attention of set-jetters. "In the movie, Petra is a prop, a backdrop to Indiana Jones," says Las Vegas resident Andy Hines who visited last April and was struck by the remnants of the vanished Nabatean Kingdom. "But see it in person, and Petra becomes the star, allowing you to appreciate the site's full, rich historical context " Petra isn't the only UNESCO site to enjoy celluloid celebrity. Hollywood has scouted and used dozens of designated cultural wonders as dramatic backdrops, transforming these locales into must-see and must-do destinations—part of a growing trend called set-jetting, that draws travelers to places appearing in hit movies and TV shows. The following list blends cultural significance with cinematic nostalgia—an irresistible draw for travelers seeking meaningful summer vacations. Sydney Pollack's Out of Africa forever linked Kenya's dramatic landscapes with epic romance. The UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site of the Kenya Lake System, designated in 2011, features prominently in the film's sweeping aerial shots of the Great Rift Valley, Ngong Hills, and most famously, Robert Redford and Meryl Streep's biplane buzzing Lake Nakuru with its iconic, if terrified, pink flamingos. The three alkaline lakes (Elementaita, Nakuru, and Bogoria) support exceptional populations of lesser flamingos and other migratory birds. Based on Karen Blixen's memoir of running a coffee plantation in colonial Kenya, the 1985 film's panoramic vistas helped define the visual language of the romantic African safari. Today, visitors can experience scenic viewpoints along the Great Rift Valley escarpment and flamingo-flocking at Lake Nakuru National Park. The region's luxury lodges will deliver an Out of Africa experience for a price. (19 of the most romantic destinations in the world.) Few film franchises have transformed a country's global image more completely than The Lord of the Rings did for New Zealand. Tongariro National Park, with its dual World Heritage status (natural and cultural), was the dramatic landscape of Mordor in Peter Jackson's epic trilogy released between 2001 and 2003. Mount Ngauruhoe served as the infamous Mount Doom (filming at the summit was forbidden as the Māori people consider these volcanic peaks sacred.) Tawahi Falls created the perfect setting for Gollum's forbidden pool. The region's profound significance to New Zealand's first people adds cultural depth, not just a cinematic connection. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a rewarding day hike past sulfurous steam vents and snow-dusted volcanic peaks, though winter in the Southern Hemisphere (June to August) makes it challenging. New Zealand's summer months—from December to February—provide better weather for travelers. (How to explore Lord of the Rings filming locations in New Zealand.) When Audrey Hepburn's Princess Ann flees her royal duties in 1953's "Roman Holiday,' she embarks on a Vespa-powered romance with journalist Gregory Peck, scooting past landmarks such as the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, and Colosseum located in the heart of the Eternal City and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980. 'It's not only a movie,' says art historian Isabella Calidonna, whose Archeorunning tours showcase the city's heart while avoiding the crowds just as Hepburn and Peck tried to do. 'The film captures the moment visitors discover Rome in all her alluring simplicity,' she says. 'And in a time when over-tourism rules Rome, we need more of it.' Travelers can retrace the lovers' locales, though Calidonna advises doing so in the early morning hours to avoid the crushing summertime throngs. (How to dine like a local in Italy.) Another two-wheeled adventurer, Gael Garcia Bernal as Ernesto "Che" Guevara, stands contemplating the 15th-century Inca citadel of Machu Picchu in The Motorcycle Diaries (2004). The scene captures a pivotal moment in the revolutionary's formative journey across South America and his awakening to social inequalities. Designated a UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site in 1983, the Peruvian wonder serves as more than just a stunning set—it functions as a silent, brooding character. However, today's travelers face more stringent regulations than Che did. Advance visitor permits are essential, with options ranging from the classic four-day Inca Trail hike to day trips via train from Cusco. Conservation concerns have led authorities to implement visitor caps, making early planning crucial for travelers interested in seeing the capital of the Incas. (Go on a luxury rail journey through Peruvian mountains.) Few musical moments rival Julie Andrews spinning like a gyroscope atop an Austrian Alp in The Sound of Music (1965). The Von Trapp family's journey through Salzburg's baroque cityscape and surrounding mountains showcases why its historic center earned its UNESCO Cultural World Heritage status in 1996. The city's Mirabell Palace Gardens, Nonnberg Abbey, and Residenzplatz became instantly recognizable to generations of viewers. Beyond the film's landmarks, visitors will discover Mozart's birthplace and other examples of the city's rich musical heritage. Dedicated Sound of Music tours remain popular, though classical music enthusiasts can opt to attend the Salzburg Festival held every summer (the Von Trapps appeared in 1936). The festival typically begins the last two weeks of July and runs through the end of August. (Fans of 'The Sound of Music' can follow in the footsteps of the famous von Trapp family.) Alfred Hitchcock brought the colorful chaos of Marrakesh's ancient walled city to audiences through his thriller The Man Who Knew Too Much (1956). The Medina, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Cultural Site in 1985, provides a labyrinthine backdrop for James Stewart and Doris Day's search for their kidnapped son. Locations such as Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, La Mamounia Hotel, and the twisting souks create a sensory overload perfect for Hitchcock, the master of suspense. Today, the 11th-century neighborhood with its distinctive red architecture perfumed by the competing aromas of saffron, leather, mint, and motorcycle exhaust, offers visitors an immersive and vibrant experience. Early morning and evening explorations help avoid summer's midday heat. (Everything families should know for the ultimate trip to Marrakech.) F.W. Murnau's expressionist vampire film Nosferatu (1922) utilized the medieval atmosphere of Lübeck, founded in 1143 to create its haunting mood. This UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site (designated 1987) showcases the brick Gothic buildings and narrow streets of a once-powerful Hanseatic League trading center located on Germany's Baltic coast. The Salzspeicher (salt storehouses) featured prominently in the film remain largely unchanged a century later. Still weathered by sea mists, they cast the same eerie silhouettes that gave Murnau's vampire tale its horror. 'It looks idyllic during the day and then the light changes and these narrow little lanes become creepy crawly,' says Christel Obenaus who leads walks around Lübeck including one about the film. Self-guided tours also allow visitors to explore Gothic churches and city streets while discovering the maritime history that made it prosperous. Film fans flock to the area in November for the festival Nordic Film Days Lübeck. (Germany's Camino trek rivals Spain's famous pilgrimage—and is a lot less crowded.) The vast, otherworldly landscape of Jordan's Wadi Rum served as a location for films like Dune and The Martian but it first captivated global audiences in Lawrence of Arabia (1962). In one memorable scene, Lawrence (Peter O'Toole) takes up the invitation of tribal leader Auda Abu Tayi (Anthony Quinn) to 'dine with me in Wadi Rum,' the next cut reveals the UNESCO Mixed Cultural and Natural Site's spectacular rocky scenery. There's authentic history behind the David Lean masterpiece, as the real Lawrence passed through the region during the Arab Revolt of World War One. Today, the country's Bedouin communities maintain ancient relationships with this challenging landscape, offering visitors authentic cultural encounters alongside natural beauty. Desert camping in front of a crackling fire beneath star-filled skies offers the most immersive experience. Tours by 4x4 provide access to a host of film locations. (Here's what it's like to visit Jordan's Wadi Rum for the first time.) When Angelina Jolie's Lara Croft vaulted through the temple ruins of Ta Prohm in Tomb Raider (2001), she introduced millions to the atmospheric wonders of Cambodia's Angkor Archaeological Park. This 1992-designated UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site showcases the vast religious complexes of the Khmer Empire that ruled here between the Ninth and 15th centuries. The 'Tomb Raider Temple' with its famous tree roots strangling the ancient stones like thick, gnarled tentacles, became one of the park's most photographed locations. Visit early mornings to duck both the crowds and the intense midday heat. A multi-day pass allows visitors to go beyond the action film's locations, discovering Angkor's lesser-known temples. They are as compelling, but without the superstar status. In Siem Reap, an evening drink in the Elephant Bar at Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor offers an elegant way to beat the heat. (These hidden temples in Cambodia will take you off the beaten path.) Lastly, perhaps the most fascinating relationship between Hollywood and UNESCO unfolded in Mexico City's Historic Center, a UNESECO Cultural Site since 1987. The opening scenes of Spectre follow Daniel Craig's James Bond through an elaborate Day of the Dead celebration featuring giant skeleton figures and costumed crowds. The 2015 sequence showcases iconic landmarks, including the Zócalo (the city's main square), the Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico (Room 327 to be exact), and the Torre Latinoamericana, the city's iconic 1956 skyscraper. What makes it unique is the film's cultural impact—before Spectre, Mexico City didn't have a large-scale Day of the Dead parade like the one depicted. In a remarkable case of art influencing life, Mexican tourism authorities established an inaugural Day of the Dead parade in 2016, directly inspired by the fictional celebration created for the film. They even used some of the props and costumes from the production and referred to it as a "Spectre-style" parade. The event has since become an annual tradition attracting thousands of visitors. (Love spy movies? These iconic London locations play a starring role.) Andrew Nelson is the author of National Geographic's recently published travel book Here Not There. Follow him on Instagram.
National Geographic
14 hours ago
- Entertainment
- National Geographic
10 stunning UNESCO sites that were immortalized on screen
In 1989, the appearance of Petra's ancient tomb known as the Treasury [Al-Khazneh] in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade electrified moviegoers. Following the film's release, annual attendance at Jordan's formerly obscure UNESCO World Heritage Site skyrocketed—reaching nearly a million visitors by 2010. Today, the link between the haunting, rock-faced tombs and the Hollywood blockbuster continues to capture the attention of set-jetters. "In the movie, Petra is a prop, a backdrop to Indiana Jones," says Las Vegas resident Andy Hines who visited last April and was struck by the remnants of the vanished Nabatean Kingdom. "But see it in person, and Petra becomes the star, allowing you to appreciate the site's full, rich historical context " Petra isn't the only UNESCO site to enjoy celluloid celebrity. Hollywood has scouted and used dozens of designated cultural wonders as dramatic backdrops, transforming these locales into must-see and must-do destinations—part of a growing trend called set-jetting, that draws travelers to places appearing in hit movies and TV shows. The following list blends cultural significance with cinematic nostalgia—an irresistible draw for travelers seeking meaningful summer vacations. Lesser flamingos—a species found in sub-Saharan Africa and western India—are seen here at Lake Bogoria, that lies in a volcanic region south of Lake Baringo in Kenya's Great Rift Valley. Photograph by / Alamy Stock Photo 1. Kenya Lake System in the Great Rift Valley Sydney Pollack's Out of Africa forever linked Kenya's dramatic landscapes with epic romance. The UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site of the Kenya Lake System, designated in 2011, features prominently in the film's sweeping aerial shots of the Great Rift Valley, Ngong Hills, and most famously, Robert Redford and Meryl Streep's biplane buzzing Lake Nakuru with its iconic, if terrified, pink flamingos. The three alkaline lakes (Elementaita, Nakuru, and Bogoria) support exceptional populations of lesser flamingos and other migratory birds. Based on Karen Blixen's memoir of running a coffee plantation in colonial Kenya, the 1985 film's panoramic vistas helped define the visual language of the romantic African safari. Today, visitors can experience scenic viewpoints along the Great Rift Valley escarpment and flamingo-flocking at Lake Nakuru National Park. The region's luxury lodges will deliver an Out of Africa experience for a price. (19 of the most romantic destinations in the world.) 2. Tongariro National Park, New Zealand Few film franchises have transformed a country's global image more completely than The Lord of the Rings did for New Zealand. Tongariro National Park, with its dual World Heritage status (natural and cultural), was the dramatic landscape of Mordor in Peter Jackson's epic trilogy released between 2001 and 2003. Mount Ngauruhoe served as the infamous Mount Doom (filming at the summit was forbidden as the Māori people consider these volcanic peaks sacred.) Tawahi Falls created the perfect setting for Gollum's forbidden pool. The region's profound significance to New Zealand's first people adds cultural depth, not just a cinematic connection. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a rewarding day hike past sulfurous steam vents and snow-dusted volcanic peaks, though winter in the Southern Hemisphere (June to August) makes it challenging. New Zealand's summer months—from December to February—provide better weather for travelers. (How to explore Lord of the Rings filming locations in New Zealand.) 3. Historic Center of Rome, Italy When Audrey Hepburn's Princess Ann flees her royal duties in 1953's "Roman Holiday,' she embarks on a Vespa-powered romance with journalist Gregory Peck, scooting past landmarks such as the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, and Colosseum located in the heart of the Eternal City and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980. 'It's not only a movie,' says art historian Isabella Calidonna, whose Archeorunning tours showcase the city's heart while avoiding the crowds just as Hepburn and Peck tried to do. 'The film captures the moment visitors discover Rome in all her alluring simplicity,' she says. 'And in a time when over-tourism rules Rome, we need more of it.' Travelers can retrace the lovers' locales, though Calidonna advises doing so in the early morning hours to avoid the crushing summertime throngs. (How to dine like a local in Italy.) Machu Picchu, the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site in Peru, has been a filming location for The Motorcycle Diaries and Transformers: Rise of the Beasts. Photograph by Jonathan Irish, Nat Geo Image Collection 4. Machu Picchu, Peru Another two-wheeled adventurer, Gael Garcia Bernal as Ernesto "Che" Guevara, stands contemplating the 15th-century Inca citadel of Machu Picchu in The Motorcycle Diaries (2004). The scene captures a pivotal moment in the revolutionary's formative journey across South America and his awakening to social inequalities. Designated a UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site in 1983, the Peruvian wonder serves as more than just a stunning set—it functions as a silent, brooding character. However, today's travelers face more stringent regulations than Che did. Advance visitor permits are essential, with options ranging from the classic four-day Inca Trail hike to day trips via train from Cusco. Conservation concerns have led authorities to implement visitor caps, making early planning crucial for travelers interested in seeing the capital of the Incas. (Go on a luxury rail journey through Peruvian mountains.) 5. Historic Center of Salzburg, Austria Few musical moments rival Julie Andrews spinning like a gyroscope atop an Austrian Alp in The Sound of Music (1965). The Von Trapp family's journey through Salzburg's baroque cityscape and surrounding mountains showcases why its historic center earned its UNESCO Cultural World Heritage status in 1996. The city's Mirabell Palace Gardens, Nonnberg Abbey, and Residenzplatz became instantly recognizable to generations of viewers. Beyond the film's landmarks, visitors will discover Mozart's birthplace and other examples of the city's rich musical heritage. Dedicated Sound of Music tours remain popular, though classical music enthusiasts can opt to attend the Salzburg Festival held every summer (the Von Trapps appeared in 1936). The festival typically begins the last two weeks of July and runs through the end of August. (Fans of 'The Sound of Music' can follow in the footsteps of the famous von Trapp family.) Local artisans buy leather in bulk at a souk in Marrakech, Morocco. Photograph by Erika Skogg, Nat Geo Image Collection Marrakesh is known for its intricate and vibrant tile work, a hallmark of Moroccan architecture, as seen here at the Ben Youssef Madrasa in the city. Photograph by Erika Skogg, Nat Geo Image Collection Ornate lanterns, teapots, and mirrors are just a few items for sale at this souk in Marrakesh. Photograph by Erika Skogg, Nat Geo Image Collection 6. Medina of Marrakesh, Morocco Alfred Hitchcock brought the colorful chaos of Marrakesh's ancient walled city to audiences through his thriller The Man Who Knew Too Much (1956). The Medina, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Cultural Site in 1985, provides a labyrinthine backdrop for James Stewart and Doris Day's search for their kidnapped son. Locations such as Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, La Mamounia Hotel, and the twisting souks create a sensory overload perfect for Hitchcock, the master of suspense. Today, the 11th-century neighborhood with its distinctive red architecture perfumed by the competing aromas of saffron, leather, mint, and motorcycle exhaust, offers visitors an immersive and vibrant experience. Early morning and evening explorations help avoid summer's midday heat. (Everything families should know for the ultimate trip to Marrakech.) 7. Hanseatic City of Lübeck, Germany F.W. Murnau's expressionist vampire film Nosferatu (1922) utilized the medieval atmosphere of Lübeck, founded in 1143 to create its haunting mood. This UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site (designated 1987) showcases the brick Gothic buildings and narrow streets of a once-powerful Hanseatic League trading center located on Germany's Baltic coast. The Salzspeicher (salt storehouses) featured prominently in the film remain largely unchanged a century later. Still weathered by sea mists, they cast the same eerie silhouettes that gave Murnau's vampire tale its horror. 'It looks idyllic during the day and then the light changes and these narrow little lanes become creepy crawly,' says Christel Obenaus who leads walks around Lübeck including one about the film. Self-guided tours also allow visitors to explore Gothic churches and city streets while discovering the maritime history that made it prosperous. Film fans flock to the area in November for the festival Nordic Film Days Lübeck. (Germany's Camino trek rivals Spain's famous pilgrimage—and is a lot less crowded.) 8. Wadi Rum, Jordan The vast, otherworldly landscape of Jordan's Wadi Rum served as a location for films like Dune and The Martian but it first captivated global audiences in Lawrence of Arabia (1962). In one memorable scene, Lawrence (Peter O'Toole) takes up the invitation of tribal leader Auda Abu Tayi (Anthony Quinn) to 'dine with me in Wadi Rum,' the next cut reveals the UNESCO Mixed Cultural and Natural Site's spectacular rocky scenery. There's authentic history behind the David Lean masterpiece, as the real Lawrence passed through the region during the Arab Revolt of World War One. Today, the country's Bedouin communities maintain ancient relationships with this challenging landscape, offering visitors authentic cultural encounters alongside natural beauty. Desert camping in front of a crackling fire beneath star-filled skies offers the most immersive experience. Tours by 4x4 provide access to a host of film locations. (Here's what it's like to visit Jordan's Wadi Rum for the first time.) The North Gate at the Angkor Thom Archaeological Park, Siem Reap, Cambodia. Photograph by Diane Cook, Len Jenshel, Nat Geo Image Collection 9. Angkor Archaeological Park, Cambodia When Angelina Jolie's Lara Croft vaulted through the temple ruins of Ta Prohm in Tomb Raider (2001), she introduced millions to the atmospheric wonders of Cambodia's Angkor Archaeological Park. This 1992-designated UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site showcases the vast religious complexes of the Khmer Empire that ruled here between the Ninth and 15th centuries. The 'Tomb Raider Temple' with its famous tree roots strangling the ancient stones like thick, gnarled tentacles, became one of the park's most photographed locations. Visit early mornings to duck both the crowds and the intense midday heat. A multi-day pass allows visitors to go beyond the action film's locations, discovering Angkor's lesser-known temples. They are as compelling, but without the superstar status. In Siem Reap, an evening drink in the Elephant Bar at Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor offers an elegant way to beat the heat. (These hidden temples in Cambodia will take you off the beaten path.) 10. Historic Center of Mexico City, Mexico Lastly, perhaps the most fascinating relationship between Hollywood and UNESCO unfolded in Mexico City's Historic Center, a UNESECO Cultural Site since 1987. The opening scenes of Spectre follow Daniel Craig's James Bond through an elaborate Day of the Dead celebration featuring giant skeleton figures and costumed crowds. The 2015 sequence showcases iconic landmarks, including the Zócalo (the city's main square), the Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico (Room 327 to be exact), and the Torre Latinoamericana, the city's iconic 1956 skyscraper. What makes it unique is the film's cultural impact—before Spectre, Mexico City didn't have a large-scale Day of the Dead parade like the one depicted. In a remarkable case of art influencing life, Mexican tourism authorities established an inaugural Day of the Dead parade in 2016, directly inspired by the fictional celebration created for the film. They even used some of the props and costumes from the production and referred to it as a "Spectre-style" parade. The event has since become an annual tradition attracting thousands of visitors. (Love spy movies? These iconic London locations play a starring role.) Andrew Nelson is the author of National Geographic's recently published travel book Here Not There. Follow him on Instagram.
Yahoo
13-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
A New Documentary Dives Behind the Scenes at Akris
THE STORY CONTINUES: Akris may have turned 100 in 2022 but the fashion house is as vibrant as ever in the hands of its founding family's third generation. That's the throughline of 'Akris, Fashion With a Heritage,' a 90-minute documentary set to premiere in New York on June 9 by Reiner Holzemer, the filmmaker behind well-regarded films on fashion figures such as Martin Margiela, Dries Van Noten and Thom Browne. More from WWD Costumes From 'A Room With a View,' 'Out of Africa' to Be Displayed at the Fashion and Textile Museum Bethani Stainfield-Bruce Named Senior Vice President at DDA's New Brand Division A24 Plans Prince Charles Cinema Takeover With Seven Films, Pop-up Shop Shot between October 2022 and January 2025, the film is a dive behind the scenes but also the family at the heart of the independent Swiss brand. 'Telling the story of Akris was more than documenting a fashion house — it was tracing the soul of a family,' the director said. 'Through every archive photo, every fabric and every conversation with Albert and Peter [Kriemler], I felt the weight of a century filled with courage, creativity and quiet elegance.' The camera follows creative director Albert Kriemler, peering into his creative process and the atelier as well as offering glimpses of seldom seen moments such as fabric sourcing, fittings with Princess Charlene of Monaco and his exchanges with figures of the art and architecture worlds, such as American ballet director John Neumeier and architects Sou Fujimoto and David Chipperfield. Woven into the film are previously unseen personal archives from the family, including footage and photographs of Kriemler-Schoch and family milestones such as the wedding of Max and Ute Kriemler, who were the second generation at the helm of the house. 'Watching this documentary, it shows there's more to fashion than just an image,' Kriemler said in a statement revealing the documentary. 'An obsession with quality, pieces made to last — and always, family and incredible, passionate people — these are the things that have always been at the heart of Akris.' Exceptional textiles continue to be front and center — in Kriemler's work of more than four decades as much as the brand's history. Founded by Kriemler's grandmother Alice Kriemler-Schoch, who 'had a really good feel for fabric' as her grandson puts it, Akris has roots in St. Gallen, Switzerland, an epicenter for textile mills and embroidery houses since the 18th century. There's also the planning and celebration of the brand's 100th anniversary, following Kriemler and his brother Peter Kriemler, who serves as chief executive officer and president of the brand, through the preparation of the spring 2023 show in Paris, a visit in New York and the opening of the 2023 exhibition at the Museum für Gestaltung Zurich, Switzerland's top design museum. After its New York premiere, 'Akris, Fashion With a Heritage' will be screened at the Monte-Carlo Television Festival on June 16. It has already been selected in the features category for the 2025 Tribeca X Award Competition at the 24th Tribeca Festival. Best of WWD Celebrities Wearing Zara: From Melania Trump's Controversial Coat to Kate Middleton's Blazer Collection [PHOTOS] The Stories Behind Audrey Hepburn's Wedding Dresses and What Happened to the Gown That Never Made It Down the Aisle La La Anthony's Style Through the Years: Met Gala Looks, MTV Days and More Photos
Yahoo
25-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Sydney Sweeney Turns Heads With Jaw-Dropping, All-Girl Safari Photos
Most people assume that famous Hollywood actresses don't drive around in jeeps looking for elephants, but what Sydney Sweeney just suggested is; maybe they do? In some brand new candid photos, Sweeney proved, once again, that she's one of the most adventurous celebrities in the world. On Saturday, March 22, Sydney dropped a set of incredible photos to her official Instagram account, showcasing her on an actual safari going full Ernest Hemingway, sans any actual hunting. "That was wild," Sweeney wrote in an Instagram caption. The photo drop included several photos of Sweeney, along with four of her gal-pals, enjoying what appears to be a legitimate safari, complete with elephants, zebras, and giraffes. Sweeney's safari photos don't appear to be connected to any of her upcoming film projects, but instead, a thrilling vacation out in the wild. Though one of the biggest actresses in Hollywood, Sweeney frequently posts and writes about her more adventure-themed interests, including racing cars, and now, apparently, roughing it in the wild. Recently, Sweeney was reportedly attached to star in a new Gone Girl-esque thriller based on a short story that was originally posted to Reddit. As far as we know, that script doesn't have anything to do with going on a safari. Though, Sweeney was planning on remaking Out of Africa, or The Lion King, these photos prove she's more than up to the task.
Zawya
04-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Zawya
Inspiring Creativity: Canon Academy Juniors Partners with Karen Country Club to Nurture Young Photographers in Kenya
The Canon Academy Juniors program is dedicated to empowering youth by fostering new hobbies and developing their creative skills, instilling confidence along the way. Tailored for two different age groups (8-12 and 13-16), the program offers hands-on photography classes designed to equip kids and teens with valuable skills. This partnership aims at Inspiring creativity and cultivating young photographers at Kenya's premier country club Canon Central&North Africa ( is thrilled to announce an exciting new partnership with Karen Country Club to bring the Canon Academy Juniors program to young members aged 8-16. This unique collaboration combines Karen Country Club's legacy of community engagement with Canon's dedication to nurturing the next generation of visual storytellers. Set to take place from 14th-17th April, this exclusive members-only program will provide young participants with immersive, hands-on photography training in a stunning outdoor environment. Through Canon Academy Juniors, selected country clubs in Nairobi, including the iconic Karen Country Club, will host four days of interactive photography sessions led by Canon-certified trainers. Participants will engage in both theoretical and practical workshops covering essential photography skills such as composition, exposure settings, storytelling, and more. The program is designed to help children and teens not only discover a new hobby but also build a deep-rooted photography culture among young learners. Established in 1937, Karen Country Club offers an ideal setting for this program. Known as one of Kenya's oldest and most prestigious family-oriented clubs, the club's 18-hole golf course was built on a former coffee estate developed by Danish author Karen Blixen, the inspiration for the classic film Out of Africa. Its serene landscape, enriched with indigenous trees, wetlands, and panoramic views of the Ngong Hills, provides a perfect canvas for budding photographers. Canon's Commitment to Innovation and Creative Expression 'Canon Academy Juniors is more than a photography program; it's a space where young minds can explore their creativity, learn valuable skills, and develop a passion for visual storytelling,' said Rashad Ghani, B2C Business Unit Director, Canon Central&North Africa. 'We're proud to partner with Karen Country Club to bring this enriching experience to their community, nurturing Kenya's next generation of photographers in an environment as inspiring as their vision.' Program Highlights and Structure The program will run in two daily sessions over four days, offering age-appropriate courses for children aged 8-12 in the morning, followed by sessions for teens aged 13-16 in the afternoon. Each day covers core photography topics including: Basics of photography and camera handling Understanding and using different camera modes Principles of composition and the exposure triangle Storytelling through images Specialized sessions such as Canon Creative Park, where participants can explore genre-based photography and creative camera modes The program not only offers a hands-on learning experience but also fosters a vibrant photography culture among young people, encouraging them to capture the world around them with new perspective. About Canon Academy Juniors Canon Academy Juniors is an exclusive educational initiative designed for young members who are eager to explore visual imaging and printing. This program is dedicated to nurturing the creative skills of students aged 8-16 through engaging outdoor and hands-on training sessions led by expert trainers. About Karen Country Club Founded in 1937, Karen Country Club is one of the oldest golf clubs in Kenya. With a course built to United States Golf Association (USGA) standards and steeped in history, the club is a prestigious hub of community activity, offering family-oriented recreation in a setting rich with indigenous flora and fauna. Its grounds serve as an extraordinary venue for Canon Academy Juniors, enhancing the learning experience with breathtaking views of the Ngong Hills and abundant natural beauty. This partnership underscores Canon's commitment to innovation and Karen Country Club's mission of enriching its members' lives through unique and valuable programs. Together, Canon and Karen Country Club are proud to offer young members the tools and inspiration they need to explore the art of photography. Click here to learn more about Canon Academy Juniors: Click here to learn more about Canon Print Hub: Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA). Media enquiries, please contact: Canon Central and North Africa Mai Youssef e. APO Group - PR Agency Rania ElRafie e. About Canon Central and North Africa: Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) ( is a division within Canon Middle East FZ LLC (CME), a subsidiary of Canon Europe. The formation of CCNA in 2016 was a strategic step that aimed to enhance Canon's business within the Africa region - by strengthening Canon's in-country presence and focus. CCNA also demonstrates Canon's commitment to operating closer to its customers and meeting their demands in the rapidly evolving African market. Canon has been represented in the African continent for more than 15 years through distributors and partners that have successfully built a solid customer base in the region. CCNA ensures the provision of high quality, technologically advanced products that meet the requirements of Africa's rapidly evolving marketplace. With over 100 employees, CCNA manages sales and marketing activities across 44 countries in Africa. Canon's corporate philosophy is Kyosei ( – 'living and working together for the common good'. CCNA pursues sustainable business growth, focusing on reducing its own environmental impact and supporting customers to reduce theirs using Canon's products, solutions and services. At Canon, we are pioneers, constantly redefining the world of imaging for the greater good. Through our technology and our spirit of innovation, we push the bounds of what is possible – helping us to see our world in ways we never have before. We help bring creativity to life, one image at a time. Because when we can see our world, we can transform it for the better. For more information:
