Posts made in July 2024

Special Advisor on International Disability Rights

Special Advisor on International Disability Rights Travel to South Korea, Brunei, Malaysia, and Cambodia

Special Advisor on International Disability Rights (SAIDR) Sara Minkara will travel to the Republic of Korea (ROK), Brunei, Malaysia, and Cambodia on July 25 – August 2 to promote the continued integration of disability policy in ASEAN and APEC. In the ROK, SAIDR Minkara will meet with government officials to discuss building upon the United States’ and ROK’s efforts to mainstream disability policy across APEC working groups. In Brunei, SAIDR Minkara will meet with government officials to discuss fostering disability inclusion across faith-based and sporting communities. In Malaysia and Cambodia, SAIDR Minkara will meet with government officials to discuss integration of disability policy across the ASEAN pillars. SAIDR Minkara’s trip aims to mainstream disability policy within a cross section of society, highlighting its benefits to economic growth and political cooperation ahead of ASEAN and APEC 2025.

For further information, please follow the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor on X and Facebook at @StateDRL, or email DRL-Press@state.gov.

THE LIUWA PLAIN

ZAMBIA’S BEST STAYS TO SEE THE WILDEBEEST MIGRATION

Nestled within the upper Zambezi floodplains of western Zambia, the secluded Liuwa Plain National Park boasts a rich conservation legacy. Initially designated by the King of Barotseland to safeguard its wildlife, Liuwa Plain faced a tumultuous period of decline due to unsustainable practices and human-wildlife conflicts.

However, since 2003, a transformative conservation effort has revitalized this landscape and Liuwa Plain now thrives as a flourishing sanctuary. Seasonal floods transform its plains into a lush wetland, hosting Africa’s second-largest wildebeest migration, where 40,000 to 50,000 wildebeest, alongside zebra, tsessebe and lechwe, migrate in a breathtaking display. From November onwards, this migration also attracts predators such as wild dogs, hyenas, cheetahs and lions.

Below, we have curated a list of the best accommodations and safari experiences, allowing travelers to witness this once-in-a-lifetime experience, exploring the vast and remote wilderness of the Liuwa Plain.

King Lewanika Lodge

King Lewanika Lodge offers an exclusive and immersive experience with its six open-fronted villas, including a spacious family villa with two bedrooms and two bathrooms. Each villa, tastefully decorated with vintage leather, cotton and canvas, is designed to blend seamlessly into the vast landscape, offering views of the plains. Named after King Lewanika of the Lozi People, who declared Liuwa Plain a protected area in the 1880s, the camp honors its historical significance by employing local building techniques and sustainable materials. Powered by solar energy, the villas feature indoor and outdoor showers, lounges and verandas, enhancing the connection with nature. Guests can enjoy a range of activities, including game drives, walking safaris, canoeing and fishing. Find more details here: www.robinpopesafaris.net

Liuwa Camp

Open since December 2023, Liuwa Camp is a fully catered lodge featuring eight ensuite canvas chalets, including a family unit with two separate chalets, designed to accommodate up to 18 guests. Each chalet is strategically placed on raised decks to ensure privacy and offers panoramic views of the plains and the camp’s watering hole. The camp’s central area is a vibrant display of Lozi culture, comprising an airy dining room, a spacious lounge, and a library, all housed under a canvas roof. Guests can partake in game drives during the day or explore on foot with a renowned Zambian walking safari. Guests can capture the spectacular landscapes and wildlife during the day and relax around the firepit, enjoying the stunning night skies of Liuwa in the evening. Find more details here: www.africanparks.org

Liuwa Plains Mobile Safari

Visitors can discover the remote wilderness of Liuwa Plain National Park with an intimate mobile safari. Led by expert guides, this safari immerses guests in the savannah grasslands, offering a comfortable, yet authentic experience. The safari provides serviced campsites with accommodation in three Meru tents, hosting up to six guests in simple park facilities. Initiated by the passionate team behind Musekese and Ntemwa Busanga Camps, the safari includes game drives and guided walks to witness breathtaking wildlife, including blue wildebeest, zebra, lions, cheetahs and more than 330 bird species. Note: The Liuwa Plains Mobile Safari is booked on a private basis. Set departures in November align with the wildebeest migration. Find more details here: www.expertafrica.com

Liuwa Plain Campsites

Liuwa Plain National Park offers four remote campsites, each accommodating up to 20 people in four tent sites. The campsites feature flushing toilets and hot showers maintained by camp attendants. Owned and run by the community, these campsites provide a truly unique wilderness experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the remote beauty of the park. Lyangu, with easy access to the western park area, is perfect for spotting hyena, lechwe and wildebeest and offers splendid birdlife at the pans. Katoyana, centrally located, provides access to woodlands and plains with frequent sightings of hyena, lion and cheetah.

Kwale, in the southern part of the park, is known for frequent buffalo sightings. Mukalabumbu, in the north, is ideal for exploring with nearby Miyanda pools attracting birdlife and frequent lion sightings. Sikale, the most remote site in the far north, requires self-sufficiency but rewards visitors with a tranquil wilderness experience and wildebeest congregations in cooler months. Find more details here: www.africanparks.org

For more information, visit www.zambia.travel.

FOUR OF THE MOST UNIQUE EXPERIENCES IN JAPAN

For curious travelers and expert jet-setters alike, there is no shortage of off- the-beaten-path adventures in Japan. To take advantage of the country’s deep cultural heritage and ancient traditions, below are a few of the many unique experiences to have in Japan.

Night Fish Auction in Kanazawa

Travelers can take a behind-the-scenes tour of the Kanazawa Fish Market – from watching boats laden with fresh seafood loading into the port, to experiencing the fast-paced local fish auction. A “fish-master” will discuss the sea life found in Ishikawa Prefecture, as well as grant visitors special access to the massive freezers that store all of the market’s goods. The market tours run year-round, apart from July and August, and dinner can be arranged after the tour by request.

Custom-Blended Sake in Shimonoseki

At the 100-year-old Shimonoseki Brewery in Yamaguchi Prefecture, an expert sake sommelier provides a crash course in the Japanese libation, including a guided tour, a sake seminar and a special tasting tutorial.

Afterwards, visitors will have a chance to create a sake blend catered to their tastes, which they can bottle and take home with a custom label.

Secrets of Japanese Woodcarving in Inami Town

Located in Toyama Prefecture, travelers can experience a woodcarving apprenticeship with an artisan from Inami Town, whose history with the traditional craft stretches back to the 18th century. During this three-hour workshop, visitors can make utensils, coasters or a personalized wood-based fragrance. The experience includes an overnight stay in one of several villas hand-designed by local woodcarvers, with locally sourced meals and room service available on request.

The Lucky Cat Street of Tokoname

Tokoname City in Aichi Prefecture boasts a special street adorned with 39 unique maneki-neko (or “Lucky Cats”), all created by local pottery artists. Each Lucky Cat has its own special blessing, including the 12-foot-tall and 20-foot-wide Tokonyan, who serves as the guardian cat of the street. The Lucky Cat Street is part of Tokoname’s Pottery Foot Path, which displays the city’s 1,000-year relationship with pottery.

Photo: Tokoname Tourism Association

Spotlight: Sony Walkman Designer

As of late, Vaughn Lowery of 360 MAGAZINE had the opportunity to have a few questions answered by the designer of the Sony Walkman, Hiroaki Sato. Prior to this conversation, he was the proud owner of the Sony Walkman and Sony KP-65WV700 65″ widescreen HDTV-ready projection TV.

At present, he is examining the most user-friendly wireless earphone options on the market, specifically the Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Premium Noise Canceling Overhead Headphones.

Sony Walkman Designer, Hiroaki Sato via 360 MAGAZINE.

Who came up with the theme of the Sony Walkman Summer House?

The overall theme of the week was Summer House. We wanted to encapsulate the feeling of summer memories fueled by your favorite playlist. This was a collaborative effort between our marketing communications and community marketing teams.

What does this anniversary mean to you as a designer of the Walkman?

Since 1979, Sony has curated a culture of personalized listening experiences with high sound quality wherever you go and continue to do so to this day. The device for storing music has evolved from cassette tapes to today’s semiconductor memory, but the enjoyment of listening to music has not changed.

We want to continue to make the “Walkman” a pleasure for our customers, and the last 45 years shows our commitment to continuing to evolve the personal audio experience.

NM-WM1ZM2 Walkman® DAP Music Player is a beautiful gold model retailing at around $3800? Who’s idea was it to curate such an item? Why? Or feel free to elaborate.

NW-WM1ZM2 was not the result of a single person’s idea but was developed considering various factors. It is part of the Signature Series and was created with music lovers, especially those who demand high sound quality. Music lovers tend to be particular about the personal music equipment they listen to, especially with headphones, and seek the most premium products. They want to listen to the music of their favorite artists through headphones and look for sound quality of music equipment that immerses them in the excitement and heat of a live performance in the most authentic way.

Sony has condensed its audio technologies to offer the Signature Series, which can create the ultimate personal music listening experience. We believe that this product helps the creator deliver their music in the most authentic way possible to the listener.

Today’s version of the legendary Sony Walkman, what makes it so unique or a standout product in the market segment?

This Walkman is a music playback device that pursues high sound quality and has evolved to help creators deliver the way it was intended to be heard.

Why do you think the Sony Walkman has played such an intricate role in pop culture? Hip-hop?

Walkman is made with a sincere interest in music. We are very happy to see that Walkman has played an intricate role in pop culture and allowed music lovers to enjoy various genres of music.

Is there anything we haven’t already spoken to or about that you wish to speak about? Community involvement? Upcoming initiatives?

Almost a year ago to date we launched our “For The Music” platform, aiming to be the brand of choice for music lovers, from creators to listeners. By developing a variety of audio products, not limited to Walkman, but also including equipment for professionals, Sony will provide music experiences that bring Kando and Ashin (Kando means emotion and Anshin has various meanings such as peace of mind, reassurance, reliability and trust).

The Walkman is still loved by people all over the world 45 years after its birth, and I am very happy and honored as the designer of the Walkman to receive this kind of attention. I want to continue to create the best personal audio music player that can help the creator of a piece of music deliver his or her thoughts to the listener as faithfully as possible. By doing so, I believe we can continue to impact the music community.

Gold Sony Walkman signature series via 360 MAGAZINE.

NEW LAMBORGHINI DEALERSHIP IN BUNDANG

Automobili Lamborghini inaugurated its new dealership in Bundang, marking a new chapter of the partnership with Italia Automobili.

The grand opening event featured the latest Urus SE, which is the brand’s first plug-in hybrid SUV and most powerful version of the best-selling car for the company worldwide. Around 100 customers, media and guests celebrated this official opening together with Federico Foschini, Chief Marketing and Sales Officer of Automobili Lamborghini and Francesco Scardaoni, Region Director of Automobili Lamborghini Asia-Pacific.

“South Korea is one of the key markets with high growth potential, it is therefore important that we expand our retail footprint to be closer to our customers. This brand new showroom also enables us to meet the needs of our customers better with the Ad Personam room where they can customize their dream car. 2024 is the second phase of the Direzione Cor Tauri where a second hybrid is added to our line-up. This new state-of-the-art showroom will guarantee an elevated brand experience as we transit into an era of hybridization.” commented Stephan Winkelmann, Chairman and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini.

Being a major city in the Seoul Capital Area and located southeast of Seoul, Bundang is the largest and most populous district of Seongnam, with a population of approximately 440,000. The Bundang-Pangyo area is highly accessible from Seoul’s Gangnam district and is considered a region with high purchasing power due to the concentration of major IT companies. The Lamborghini Bundang showroom is located near Pangyo Techno Valley, a landmark of the Bundang-Pangyo area, and has a ground floor space of 540.62 square meters (approximately 164 pyeong).

The showroom features the best of Italian automotive design and engineering, with the latest super sports cars and Super SUVs in the market, complete with Collezione and Accessori Originali fashion offerings and a dedicated Ad Personam room where customers can have the opportunity to personalize their dream cars from the exterior, interior to the colors and trims of their vehicles, reflecting their personalities and lifestyles with a nearly infinite of bespoke colours and materials using the Lamborghini Car Configurator. It also allows customers to immerse themselves in the process from touch to smell of the upholstery materials and exclusive materials such as carbon fiber.

Lamborghini Bundang provides an exclusive, comfortable environment in where customers can fully immerse themselves in the process of their selecting and configuring their dream cars

The Man Who Saved the Internet with a Sunflower

‘Smart, funny yet informative visual manifest about a man that revolutionized the digital world, aka the internet.’ — Vaughn Lowery

Global filmmaker Ori Yardeni‘s new feature film The Man Who Saved the Internet with a Sunflower, the true story of American entrepreneur Rob Ryan, had its world premiere on Friday, June 28, 2024 at 9:30 pm PST during the Dances With Films festival, scheduled from June 20-30th, 2024 at TCL Chinese Theatres in Hollywood.

The film recounts the dramatic story of Rob Ryan, the ultimate entrepreneur, who saved the Internet from collapsing in the 1990s, transformed the lives of all of us in every field, and today is trying to save the Internet from itself.

“We’re honored to be selected by such a prestigious festival as Dances With Films,” comments Yardeni. “We look forward to having our world premiere in Hollywood at the iconic TCL Chinese Theatres.”

Rob and Terry Ryan will join Yardeni and his wife Irit (who designed the soundtrack) at the world premiere event of the Oscar-qualifying festival.

The film’s official trailer HERE.

The first in a planned trilogy, the captivating dramedy explores the future of technology and humanity, delving into the untold story of Ryan, an innovative engineer and mentor whose Sunflower Code, a decision-making formula and tool to discover one’s true vocation, revolutionized the Internet and continues to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs.

Lenny Kravitz – Paralyzed

Following the release of his critically acclaimed new album Blue Electric Light earlier this year via Roxie Records/BMG, today, Lenny Kravitz debuts the otherworldly music video for focus track “Paralyzed.” Watch “Paralyzed” HERE.

Directed by Anthony Mandler (Jay-Z, Rihanna, Lana Del Rey), the “Paralyzed” music video depicts Kravitz and his band in a celestial landscape, haunted by mysterious figures that symbolize Kravitz’s hypnotic affection for the woman in question. Following the video’s premiere, YouTube Premium subscribers were treated to an Afterparty filled with exclusive behind-the-scenes content. Fans who don’t already have a YouTube Premium subscription can sign up for a free trial to access this exclusive content and more.

“Paralyzed,” which “sees Kravitz thrillingly go full ‘80s heavy metal” (Associated Press) punctuates the album’s slew of singles with a love-drunk groove, featuring tinges of psychedelic and heavy, blues-based influences. Kravitz’s razor sharp vocals cut through fuzzy guitar riffs and hazy synths, swelling to a gut-wrenching final plea: “Babe without your love I’m paralyzed.” It is the third single from Blue Electric Light, following “arena-ready” (GRAMMY) “TK421” and “absolutely infectious” (Forbes) “Human.”

So far this year, Kravitz was immortalized on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, received the “Music Icon Award” at the 2024 People’s Choice Awards and was honored by the CFDA with their “Fashion Icon Award” for his role as not only one of rock’s most esteemed musicians, but also a major fashion influence. Kravitz also headlined the UEFA Champions League Final Kick Off Show at Wembley Stadium in London before kicking off his expansive worldwide Blue Electric Light tour in Hamburg, Germany. As a relentless creative force—musician, writer, producer, actor, author, designer—Lenny Kravitz continues to be a global dynamic presence throughout music, art, and culture. Coming up, Kravitz will perform a special slate of Las Vegas dates at Dolby Live at Park MGM in October.

Follow Lenny Kravitz:

Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | X

V Coterie

Check out the coolest jewelry line that makes stunning statements – V Coterie. Whether you’re in the hospital, in the laboratory, in private practice, or in the library, their pieces serve as vessels of empowerment along your journey through lifelong learning.

V Coterie’s unique Stethoscope Rings are perfect for anyone on their healthcare journey! A novelty take on a staple medical accessory, you can wear it with any outfit, whether work or play, day or night. Made with 18K gold over eco-brass to keep the jewelry strong for daily wear while also reducing the environmental impact. It comes in signature gold and silver as well as hand filled enamel options. Specialty designed to hug its healer.

Their clever chill-pill line resonates with practically all college kids (med school or not!). Available in Pave Stud Earrings or a Pave Bracelet, this fun line prescribes you your daily dose of style! Made with 18K gold over eco-brass to keep the jewelry strong for daily wear while also reducing the environmental impact. All of their gemstones are lab-grown, genuine AAA grade and offer a remarkably similar appearance to mined gemstones. Plus, they have the added benefits of being fully traceable and manufactured in controlled conditions.

Fine Jewelry Spotlight 2024: Lab Grown Diamond Tennis Bracelets

Lab grown diamonds are gaining popularity and are expected to reach $59.2 billion in the global market by 2032 according to Allied Market Research. This trend is driven by factors like their ethical sourcing, lower cost compared to natural diamonds and increasing consumer awareness of environmental issues. Their growing popularity is reflected in various sectors of the industry, including at major events like New York Bridal Fashion Week.

As we progress through 2024, the lab grown diamond tennis bracelet emerges as a standout piece, celebrated for its timeless elegance and versatile style. The excitement around tennis bracelets has received an extra boost from the new tennis-themed movie Challengers, starring style icon Zendaya. Big-name celebrities like Taylor Swift and Rihanna have also been seen wearing tennis jewelry, making it the must-have accessory of the season.

According to Google Trends, searches for “lab grown tennis bracelets” have picked up over the last 12 months, peaking in November 2023. This surge shows that tennis bracelets are more than just a passing trend—they’re here to stay as a top choice for stylish jewelry.

The History of Tennis Bracelets

The term “tennis bracelet” has an interesting and rather glamorous origin tied to the sport of tennis. While in-line diamond eternity bracelets have been popular since the 1920s, the name “tennis bracelet” didn’t catch on until a memorable incident involving tennis star Chris Evert during the 1987 US Open.

Known for her skills on the court, Evert was equally famous for her style icon status, often seen wearing her diamond bracelet while playing. During one intense match, her diamond bracelet snapped off her wrist and fell onto the court. Evert immediately asked the officials to pause the game to search for her bracelet, a moment that not only captivated viewers but also highlighted her sparkling accessory.

This incident caught the public’s attention and from that point on, the elegant string of in-line diamonds became known as a “tennis bracelet.” The design, typically featuring a symmetrical pattern of diamonds set in a narrow chain, was not new.

However, Evert’s moment brought it renewed fame and desirability, transforming it into a symbol of luxurious athleticism. Since then, tennis bracelets have been associated with sporty chic and classic elegance, making them a popular choice for jewelry lovers worldwide.

Popular Lab Grown Diamond Tennis Bracelet Designs for 2024

Lab grown diamond bracelets continue to be a big hit in the fashion industry. These stylish bracelets are available in a range of designs that appeal to every taste, from classic elegance to modern flair. Take a closer look at some of the most popular styles this year.

Classic prong setting. The classic prong setting is a timeless choice for diamond tennis bracelets. Each lab grown diamond is securely held in place by small metal prongs—usually four or six—which gently grip the stone. This setting is not only elegant but also very practical. It exposes more of the diamond’s surface to light, allowing a spectacular amount of sparkle and brilliance to shine through.

Bezel set glamor. The bezel or half-bezel set is a modern take on diamond settings that’s sleek and secure. The lab grown diamonds are individually encased in a metal frame, which protects the edges of the stone and gives the bracelet a smooth, contemporary look. The continuous metal surround creates a seamless flow of sparkle and is ideal for jewelry lovers who lead active lifestyles, as it keeps the diamonds safely in place with minimal risk of snagging on clothing or other objects.

Delicate mini bracelets. Mini bracelets are gaining popularity for their subtle, minimalist design. These slender, understated pieces are perfect for those who prefer their jewelry to complement rather than dominate their look. The mini style is loved for its versatility—it pairs beautifully with other bracelets, making it ideal for stacking. You can mix and match different bracelet styles for a personalized look or layer several mini bracelets together for a textured effect.

Their delicate style also means they won’t overpower statement pieces like a diamond ring. This makes mini bracelets a fantastic choice for everyday wear, allowing you to add just a hint of sparkle without overwhelming your overall ensemble.

Alternative shapes and colors. Moving beyond the classic round cut, diamond cuts like emerald and Asscher are gaining traction. These cuts offer a unique visual appeal with their distinct angular facets and add a touch of vintage elegance to any lab grown diamond bracelet.

Colored diamond rings and bracelets also make a splash in the jewelry scene. Available in hues like pink, blue and yellow, these diamonds let you express your personal style while maintaining the brilliance diamonds are known for.

Why Choose Lab Grown Diamond Tennis Bracelets in 2024?

Following the rise in popularity of lab grown diamond engagement rings, tennis bracelets with cultivated diamonds are the next big trend in the jewelry world. These bracelets offer the same stunning quality and brilliance as those with naturally mined diamonds but at a more accessible price point.

Whether you’re drawn to the classic elegance of a prong setting, the sleek protection of a bezel set or the unique flair of alternative shapes and colors, there’s a design out there to suit your taste and style.

Opting for a lab grown diamond tennis bracelet in 2024 is a choice in favor of versatility. These bracelets can effortlessly transition from casual looks with jeans and a t-shirt to the most sophisticated evening outfits. They’re ideal for elevating everyday attire with a hint of luxury or for presenting as a memorable gift.

With their seamless blend of classic elegance and modern appeal, lab grown diamond tennis bracelets are more than just a fashion statement—they’re an investment in enduring beauty.

Corner Bar Management + LVCVA

Corner Bar Management and the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) have unveiled “Downtown Las Vegas Nightlife in One Take,” a 2:40 continuous, one-shot drone video that miraculously weaves in and out of Corner Bar’s clubs, bars and restaurants, all located on the same block on East Fremont Street in Downtown Las Vegas. Produced by industry innovator JayByrd Films and set to “Joy Ride” by Las Vegas’ own The Killers, the cutting-edge video features one of the most intricate drone shots ever captured.

“We sought to create a video that captures the vibrant spirit of Fremont East, a curated collection of unique nightlife spots designed for the ultimate bar crawl,” said Ryan Doherty, founder of Corner Bar Management, the mastermind behind some of Downtown Las Vegas’ most talked-about bars, clubs, and restaurants. “What JayByrd Films captured with their bird’s-eye view surpassed all my expectations. It’s absolutely mind-blowing.”

The video debuted today at 9 a.m. EST on an Instagram collaboration by the LVCVA on @vegas, Downtown Las Vegas’ (DTLV) page, @DTLV; and Corner Bar’s destinations featured in the video: Park on Fremont at @parkonfremont, DISCOPUSSY at @discopussy, Lucky Day at @luckydayvegas, We All Scream at @weallscreamvegas, Cheapshot at @cheapshotdtlv, La Mona Rosa at @lamonarosalv and Commonwealth at @commonwealthdtlv. The video has also been posted on the DTLV YouTube channel, linked here.

The cinematic first-person perspective transports viewers into an electrifying Saturday night on East Fremont Street between Las Vegas Boulevard and Carson Avenue. The single-shot video highlights the whimsical charm of Park on Fremont, the underground beats of Discopussy, the colorful, mezcal-fueled ambiance of Lucky Day, the convergence of music and art at We All Scream, the cheeky spirit of Cheapshot, the modern Tulum vibes at La Mona Rosa, and unparalleled nightlife and live music at Commonwealth. Corner Bar Management’s bars typically host around 6,000 guests on a weekend night.

The final video, capturing seamless continuous shots across each of the seven destinations, required numerous takes. Directed by Jay Christensen and Doherty, with Christensen also serving as the drone operator and director of photography, the video showcases the unique perspective of Downtown Las Vegas using a GoPro Hero 12 mounted on a custom-built sub-250 drone. The video was produced by Emily Erhart, with Gian Lorenzo Ferretti as the assistant camera and Erik Nelson as co-producer. Post-production sound design was completed by Taylor Lewin and Christensen. The Killers, known for their affection and support for their hometown of Las Vegas, provided licensing for “Joy Ride” to accompany the video.

JayByrd Films is a globally recognized leader in cinematic first-person view and aerial cinematography. Established with a passion for pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling, JayByrd Films has revolutionized the audience experience through innovative techniques, cutting-edge technology, and extraordinary sound design.