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St. Peter’s Basilica AI-Generated Digital Twin
Plus: Travel News & Top 5 Winter Destinations
Alex Mustaros
November 13, 2024
In partnership with
Walt Disney's animated film "Fantasia,” starring Leopold Stokowski, The Philadelphia Orchestra, Mickey Mouse, and ballet-dancing hippopotamuses, premiered at the Broadway Theatre in New York City 84 years ago.
Get into a great mood listening to “The Nutcracker Suite” before reading this issue of The Expert’s Guild Travel Journal.
Wasn’t that fun? Now, let’s go to this week’s most important travel news.
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Around The World
Kasbah Tamadot Reopens. Morocco's crown jewel, Kasbah Tamadot, is back and more breathtaking than ever! Sir Richard Branson's mountain retreat has reopened after a year-long restoration, now boasting six new Riads, a second restaurant, and an expansion from 28 to 42 rooms. The property's heart, its warm Berber hospitality, and all-Moroccan staff remain unchanged, while the stunning Atlas Mountain views just got even better.
Kasbah Tamadot
St. Regis on the Bund. Shanghai's historic Bund district just got even more glamorous! The St. Regis has unveiled its latest masterpiece, its 60th global property and second Shanghai location. This new riverside gem comes complete with its legendary butler service and signature luxury touches. Set in one of the city's most iconic neighborhoods, The St. Regis on the Bund promises a fresh take on refined dining and its famous hospitality rituals. Trust St. Regis to pick the perfect spot for its diamond-number property!
The St. Regis by Marriott
Sindalah. Saudi Arabia's ambitious NEOM project has just unveiled its first jewel: Sindalah, a breathtaking island paradise in the Red Sea! This luxurious 840,000-square-meter retreat, just 5km off NEOM's coastline, is set to become the ultimate playground for the world's elite. Strategically positioned within cruising distance of Mediterranean hotspots, Sindalah will be a glamorous gateway to the Red Sea for European, Saudi, and GCC yacht enthusiasts. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's vision for NEOM is finally taking physical shape, and what a stunning start it is!
Sindalah by NEOM
Ananda in the Himalayas. Talk about aging gracefully! As Ananda in the Himalayas approaches its 25th anniversary in 2025, this iconic wellness sanctuary treats itself (and its guests) to a stunning makeover. Now boasting 64 rooms, 3 villas, and 8 refreshed suites across its sprawling 100-acre paradise, this wellness haven proves that at 25, it's only getting better with age!
Ananda in the Himalayas
Six Senses Milan. Six Senses has found its sweet spot in Milan's artistic heart! Nestled in the charming Via Brera quarter, their newest urban retreat perfectly blends Italian craftsmanship with sustainable luxury. Think arabescato marble, antique brass, and handmade details at every turn, and that's just the beginning! With 68 rooms (including 15 suites and two with private plunge pools), a cutting-edge spa, and a rooftop bar with a sky pool, they're redefining Milanese luxury. The cherry on top? Their Earth Lab and seasonal restaurant prove that style and sustainability can go hand in hand. Looks like Milan's artistic quarter just got even more masterful!
Six Senses
AI-generated St. Peter’s Basilica
In a stunning collaboration, the Vatican and Microsoft have created what might be history's most impressive digital twin.
St. Peter's Basilica has been captured in extraordinary detail using 400,000 high-resolution photos, all taken during a rare four-week period when the basilica was completely empty.
Explore St. Peter's Basilica
Why now? With the 2025 Jubilee approaching and an expected 30 million pilgrims (plus the usual 50,000 daily visitors), this tech upgrade couldn't come at a better time.
The project introduces a game-changing reservation system, finally saying goodbye to those infamous tourist queues.
But here's the real magic: this isn't just about virtual tours. The AI-powered twin, packing enough data to fill five million DVDs, is already playing detective, spotting hidden structural issues and deterioration that human eyes might miss. Talk about divine intervention!
Pope Francis has given this digital leap his blessing, seeing it as a perfect blend of preserving heritage and spreading faith. As the basilica approaches its 400th consecration anniversary in 2026, it's proving that even the world's most sacred spaces can embrace innovation while keeping their soul intact.
Microsoft is calling it its most sophisticated project yet, and the results show why!
Top 5 Winter Trending Destinations
These destinations are so hot right now that they're practically melting the snow. Ready to be ahead of the crowd? Here's where the in-the-know travelers are heading this frosty season.
Aspen, Colorado, USA
Known for its glamorous slopes and vibrant social scene, Aspen attracts celebrities and ski enthusiasts. The area offers luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and a range of winter activities, making it a premier choice for high-end travelers seeking adventure and relaxation.St. Moritz, Switzerland
Renowned for its elegance and luxury, St. Moritz is a top destination in the Swiss Alps. It features world-class skiing, upscale hotels like Badrutt’s Palace, and a lively après-ski culture. The stunning scenery and high-end amenities make it a favorite among the elite.Courchevel, France
Part of the Three Valleys ski area, Courchevel is famous for its opulent accommodations and Michelin-starred restaurants. This destination offers exceptional skiing experiences, designer shopping, and luxurious chalets, appealing to those looking for both adventure and indulgence.Whistler, Canada
As North America's largest ski resort, Whistler offers diverse skiing options and a vibrant village atmosphere. Upscale lodges and a variety of winter sports activities make it an attractive destination for luxury travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.Dubai, UAE
For those seeking a warm winter escape, Dubai offers a unique blend of urban luxury and desert adventures. With extravagant hotels like the Burj Al Arab, fine dining options, and opportunities for desert safaris, Dubai caters to travelers looking for opulence in a different climate.
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