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Centara Reserve Samui community support

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Your Stories
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SAMUI ISLAND, Thailand, 24 February 2026: Centara Reserve Samui reaffirmed its dedication to sustainability and meaningful community support through a heartfelt silent auction and donation initiative benefiting a local Special Needs School.

Samui Special Needs Foundation is a non-profit organisation dedicated to supporting children with disabilities and their families on Samui. The foundation provides educational, developmental, and social support, with a particular focus on children with autism and learning difficulties, aiming to enhance their quality of life and promote inclusion within the community. 

This year, the silent auction carried special significance, featuring handcrafted artworks created by students from the Special Needs School. Each piece reflected the children’s creativity, care, and individuality, transforming the initiative into a meaningful connection between guests and the local community. Proceeds from the auction were donated directly to support the school and its students, contributing to essential learning resources and development.

Extending this commitment to sustainability, Centara Reserve Samui also gave new life to materials from its 2024 Christmas tree, which had been crafted entirely from reclaimed wood. The wood was thoughtfully repurposed into tables and chairs and donated to the same Special Needs School, providing much-needed furniture that the school had been lacking for everyday classroom use.

Teachers shared their heartfelt appreciation, noting that their students had been short of basic tables and chairs, and that these simple yet vital items would make a meaningful difference in their daily learning environment. Alongside the furniture donation, the silent auction raised THB18,000, further supporting the school’s ongoing needs.

Centara Reserve & The Centara Collection Corporate Director of Operations and General Manager at Centara Reserve Samui, Neil Li, shared: “Every year, we use our Christmas tree as more than a festive symbol. It is our opportunity to share a message that truly matters. Sustainability is not something we speak about once a year – it is something we live and practice every single day, through the choices we make and the responsibility we carry. We do this because we believe in protecting and preserving a better planet, not only for ourselves, but for our children and for generations to come.”

This initiative reflects Centara Reserve Samui’s ongoing commitment to responsible hospitality – where refined experiences, environmental mindfulness, and heartfelt community support come together to create lasting, positive impact for both people and planet.

About Centara
Centara Hotels & Resorts is Thailand’s leading hotel operator. Its 84 properties span all major Thai destinations, as well as the Maldives, Vietnam, Laos, Japan, Oman, Qatar, and the UAE. Centara’s portfolio comprises six brands – Centara Reserve, The Centara Collection, Centara Grand, Centara, Centara Life and COSI Hotels – ranging from luxury island retreats and upscale family resorts to affordable lifestyle concepts supported by innovative technology.

Find out more about Centara at www.CentaraHotelsResorts.com

(Source: Your Stories — Centara Hotels & Resorts)

Hilton names GM for the Waldorf Astoria KUL

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Newsdesk
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KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, 24 February 2026: Hilton names Etienne Dalançon as general manager of the Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur, set to open in late 2026. 

With over two decades of expertise in luxury hospitality and a proven track record of operational excellence, Dalançon will spearhead the launch of the landmark property, bringing the iconic Waldorf Astoria brand to Malaysia for the very first time.

Photo credit: Hilton. Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur — Etienne Dalançon, General Manager.

Located in the heart of the city’s Golden Triangle in the Bukit Bintang district, Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur will feature 268 suites, seven culinary and cocktail experiences, a wellness centre, and meeting and event spaces.

Dalançon joins Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur following his tenure as general manager of Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi. He has held senior leadership roles in luxury hotels across Asia and Europe. 

“I am honoured to embark on this next chapter in my Hilton journey and lead the talented team at Waldorf Astoria Kuala Lumpur,” said Dalançon. “Together, we will create unforgettable moments for our guests, blending the brand’s sincerely elegant service with the vibrant spirit of Kuala Lumpur.”

(Source: Hilton)

Explora opens World Journey reservations

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Newsdesk
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SINGAPORE, 24 February 2026: Explora Journeys, the luxury ocean travel brand of the MSC Group, announces reservations are now open for its inaugural World Journey, setting sail on 6 January 2029. 

Endless Worlds will take place aboard EXPLORA I, spanning four continents and 63 unique destinations with overnight stays in 12 destinations. 

Photo credit: Explora Journeys. Komodo Islands, Indonesia.

Representing significant milestones for the brand, the 128-day journey will be defined by 44 maiden calls visiting destinations and regions new to Explora Journeys — from the Indian Ocean, Australia and New Zealand to the waters of the South Pacific and Peru.

Guests may choose the full 128-day World Journey from Dubai to Barcelona (6 January to 14 May 2029), or opt for two slightly shortened versions with the same departure date: a 112-day World Journey concluding in New York City on 28 April 2029 and a 108-day World Journey ending in Miami on 24 April 2029. 

Seven passages: A global adventure

Across seven passages, guests experience the world as one continuous journey.

Dubai to Singapore (20 nights)

Begins with a passage through the desert landscapes of the Arabian Peninsula and the ports of India before navigating the coastlines of Sri Lanka and Langkawi. 

Singapore to Sydney (23 nights)

A passage reveals the radiant spirit of Bali and the prehistoric landscapes of Komodo and Papua New Guinea, before following the Great Barrier Reef to Sydney.

Sydney to Auckland (14 nights)

From Australia’s vineyards to New Zealand’s fjords via Tasmania shifts the focus to the dramatic contrasts of the southern hemisphere.

Auckland to Tahiti (17 nights)

A passage across the Pacific to Fiji and the Cook Islands, traversing the turquoise tranquillity of French Polynesia. 

Papeete to Valparaíso (14 nights)

A passage to rediscover the coral-haloed calm of Fakarava and the solitary mystery of Pitcairn with the ancient stone echoes of Easter Island. 

Valparaíso to Miami (21 nights)

A passage traces the spine of South America, where extended time in Lima allows for deeper inland immersion into the sacred Quechua legacy of Cusco and Machu Picchu. The journey continues through the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal and then uncovers art-rich Cartagena and the idyllic beaches of the Caribbean.

Miami to Barcelona (20 nights)

The final chapter: A passage through the Atlantic’s Mosaic pauses in New York City, then strikes out across the Atlantic toward the volcanic peaks of the Azores with stops in Lisbon and Cadiz, prelude to the ship’s arrival in Barcelona.

(Source: Explora)

A&K strengthens trade sales team

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Newsdesk
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MELBOURNE, 24 February 2026: Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group (AKTG) has appointed Debra Fox as Chief Sales Officer, Trade Sales, to strengthen trade partnerships across its luxury portfolio worldwide. 

Photo credit: A&K. Debra Fox, Chief Sales Officer, Trade Sales.

In her new role, Fox will assume global responsibility for all trade sales across AKTG’s flagship brands, including Abercrombie & Kent, Crystal, A&K Sanctuary, Cox & Kings, and Ecoventura, and reports to CEO Cristina Levis. The appointment creates a unified sales leadership structure designed to enhance advisor support while maintaining the distinct brand expertise that travel partners value. 

Fox continues to serve as Managing Director for Abercrombie & Kent’s tour operating businesses in Australia and the UK. In Asia, she will work with a strong regional leadership team led by Tony Archbold, VP of Trade Sales for A&K, Crystal, and A&K Sanctuary in Asia. 

“This structure allows us to deliver even more focused support to our trade partners than ever before,” said Fox. “We’re building on the excellent foundations we have in the Asian market, with Tony leading a dedicated team who bring deep expertise in advisor relationships and a clear focus on maximising sales opportunities across all our brands.” 

Enhanced Trade Support Structure in Asia 

Photo credit: A&K. Tony Archbold, VP Trade Sales for A&K, Crystal and A&K Sanctuary, Asia.

The new organisation aligns AKTG’s sales teams globally while maintaining dedicated brand expertise where it works best for each market. In Asia, the sales leadership team comprises: 

Tony Archbold, VP of Trade Sales for A&K, Crystal and A&K Sanctuary, Asia, supported by Sales Director Evon Ler, AKTG Sales Director and the Inside Sales team. 

This team will continue to build on internal collaboration, increasing execution effectiveness at the local level, with a clear focus on maximising sales opportunities and impact across trade partners for all AKTG brands. 

Growth Momentum 

The strengthened sales structure supports unprecedented expansion across AKTG’s portfolio. Abercrombie & Kent continues its momentum with new DMCs in key markets and product launches, including new A&K Sanctuary properties such as Gorilla Forest Lodge in Uganda, Pure Amazon riverboat in Peru, and Baines’ Lodge in Botswana. The recent brand refresh has driven increased advisor engagement and client demand. 

Cox & Kings is embarking on a significant phase of global expansion, with Australia among the pivotal new markets for launch. Leveraging AKTG’s strong global network, the expansion will broaden Cox & Kings’ geographical footprint and solidify its position as a leader in distinctive, immersive travel. 

Crystal continues its relaunch with two vessels currently operational, Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony, following extensive multi-million-dollar refurbishments. The brand recently returned to the number one position in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards for 2025 for mid-size luxury ocean ships. 

Crystal’s confidence in its long-term future is underscored by the announcement of Crystal Grace, the brand’s first new ocean ship in 25 years, scheduled for delivery in May 2028. 

The 650-guest, all-suite vessel will represent a natural evolution of Crystal’s design and service philosophy, with generous public spaces, world-class dining and one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios in the segment. Additionally, the company has secured financing for the refurbishment of two additional ships. 

(Source: AKTG)

Malaysia Airlines expands Doha flights

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Newsdesk
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KUALA LUMPUR, 24 February 2026: Malaysia Airlines will improve connectivity between Malaysia and the Middle East with the introduction of a third daily direct service between Kuala Lumpur (KUL) and Doha (DOH), effective 30 June 2026. 

The additional frequency builds on the airline’s existing twice-daily operations, bringing the total to 21 flights weekly and reflecting sustained demand for travel between Asia, the Middle East, and beyond.

Photo credit: Malaysia Airlines.

The airline will deploy an A330-300 with 290 seats on the route with a flight time of seven hours and 40 minutes.

There’s competition on the route with Qatar Airways deploying an A350-1000 aircraft with 355 seats on the route. It offers 10 flights weekly, and the average fare on the route for the two airlines is USD1120 round-trip. 

Malaysia Airlines’ latest addition will have access to over 120 codeshare destinations through Kuala Lumpur and Doha. Via Hamad International Airport, passengers will enjoy improved connectivity from Asia and Australasia to key European, Middle Eastern, African, and American destinations, while Malaysia Airlines’ increased frequencies from Australia further support seamless westbound and eastbound travel.

Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) Chief Executive Officer of Airline Business Bryan Foong said: “The introduction of our third daily service to Doha underscores the strong performance of this route and the strategic importance of our partnership with Qatar Airways. By expanding capacity, we are enhancing access to Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the Americas via Hamad International Airport, while leveraging our growing Australian network to support more seamless east–west travel. This expansion strengthens our global connectivity and underscores our commitment to offering customers greater flexibility and a more integrated travel experience across key global markets.”

Flight schedule for summer 2026

(Source: MAG)

VN flies to the Netherlands

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Newsdesk
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HANOI, 24 February 2026: Vietnam Airlines launches the first-ever nonstop route between Amsterdam and Hanoi with the inaugural flight set for 16 June.

The airline announced details on its Facebook page last week, flagging a fare deal of EUR 449 for the period 16 to 30 June. An A350 with 304 seats will serve the new route with a flight time of 12 hours and 10 minutes.

Photo credit: Vietnam Airlines.

The service will operate between Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport and Amsterdam Schiphol Airport every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday starting 16 June 2026.

Flight schedule

VN83 departs Hanoi (HAN) at 0350 and arrives in Amsterdam (AMS) at 1100.
VN82 departs Amsterdam (AMS) at 1400 and arrives in Hanoi (HAN) at 0600 plus a day. 

Deputy Director of Vietnam Airlines Nguyen Quang Trung told Vietnam Government Portal that the Ha Noi–Amsterdam route represents a major milestone in the carrier’s strategy to expand its European network.

The latest direct air route raises the total number of the national flag carrier between Vietnam and Europe to 12, with eight destinations including Paris, Frankfurt, London, Munich, Milan, Copenhagen, Moscow, and Amsterdam, further reinforcing its role as a key air bridge between Viet Nam and international markets.

The Netherlands is currently Vietnam’s largest trading partner in Europe, with imports from Vietnam exceeding USD11 billion in 2025, and is also a major European investor, with total investment capital of around USD16 billion. 

Market data show that two-way passenger traffic between Vietnam and the Netherlands surpassed 122,000 in 2024 and is expected to continue rising in 2025, with passenger volume on the Ha Noi–Amsterdam route alone increasing by more than 40% year on year.

(Source: Vietnam Airlines and Vietnam Government Portal)

Booking.com honours Royal Cliff Hotels Group

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Your Stories
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PATTAYA, Thailand, 23 February 2026: The Royal Cliff Hotels Group reports that all four of its luxury hotels have been recognised in the Booking.com Traveller Review Awards 2026, reaffirming the Group’s strong reputation for excellence and guest satisfaction. 

Royal Cliff Beach Hotel, Royal Cliff Beach Terrace, Royal Cliff Grand Hotel, and Royal Wing Suites & Spa have each achieved higher review scores than the previous year, reflecting a significant rise in guest appreciation across the entire resort.

This year’s results mark an important milestone for Royal Cliff, demonstrating consistent quality, attentive service, and continuous facility enhancements. The improved scores across all properties underscore the trust and confidence travellers from around the world place in Royal Cliff, positioning the Group as one of Pattaya’s most reliable and distinguished hospitality destinations.

Once again, Royal Wing Suites & Spa stands out as the highest-rated property within the Group, achieving an impressive score of 9.3. Renowned for its privacy, personalised service and refined luxury, Royal Wing continues to set the benchmark for upscale accommodation in Thailand.

The Booking.com Traveller Review Awards recognise partners who consistently deliver exceptional guest experiences. Based on millions of verified guest reviews worldwide, the awards reflect genuine traveller feedback published on Booking.com’s website and app. Properties with outstanding review scores are recognised for going the extra mile to make every stay memorable. 

Perched atop a 64-acre private estate with breathtaking views of the Gulf of Thailand, the Royal Cliff Hotels Group boasts four luxury hotels, charming travellers from all corners of the world. Unlock a world of magical experiences with Royal Cliff’s curated promotions and packages at the ultimate luxury destination. Staying at Royal Cliff, guests will have access to a plethora of facilities, including its seven swimming pools (one of them the longest and most spectacular infinity-edge pool in Thailand), a luxury sports club with Tennis, Squash, and Pickleball Courts, an award-winning health spa, multi-cuisine restaurants, a kids’ club, and more.

For more information on the Royal Cliff Hotels Group, visit www.royalcliff.com, www.facebook.com/royalcliff  and www.instagram.com/royalcliff. 

(Source: Your Stories — Royal Cliff Hotels Group)

​​Dusit Thani Maldives welcomes Michelin-starred chef

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Your Stories
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BAA ATOLL Maldives, 23 February 2026: Dusit Thani Maldives on Mudhdhoo Island in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll will host an exclusive culinary residency by Michelin-starred Chef Christophe Chiavola from 5 to 10 March 2026, bringing refined French craftsmanship and nature-driven gastronomy to the resort’s oceanfront restaurant, Sea Grill.

Known for his instinctive, seasonal approach to cuisine, Chef Christophe has earned international recognition for his precise technique, elegant compositions, and deep respect for natural ingredients. Currently at the helm of the Michelin-starred Le Prieuré Baumanière in Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, France, he will present a series of intimate dining experiences that thoughtfully weave French culinary artistry with Maldivian influences.

Over the course of the residency, guests will be invited to experience four carefully curated events, each designed to reflect Chef Christophe’s philosophy of balance, craftsmanship, and a close connection to nature:

· Masterclass by the Ocean
An intimate, hands-on cooking session offering insight into Michelin-starred techniques and a seasonal approach to flavour.

· Island Flavours Unveiled
A small-group masterclass highlighting refined culinary methods and the use of fresh island produce.

· Shades of the Sea: A Cocktail & Dinner Evening
A sunset experience combining handcrafted cocktails with a multi-course dinner inspired by Chef Christophe’s French roots and the spirit of the Maldives.

· The Michelin Star Gala
The centrepiece of the residency, this one-night-only gala dinner will showcase Chef Christophe’s signature dishes, reinterpreted with local ingredients and served under the stars by the ocean.

“We are delighted to welcome Chef Christophe Chiavola to Dusit Thani Maldives for this special residency,” said Jean-Louis Ripoche, Area General Manager of Dusit Thani Maldives and dusitD2 Feydhoo Maldives. “His respect for nature, seasonality, and craftsmanship aligns seamlessly with our own approach to culinary expression. This collaboration offers our guests an opportunity to experience world-class cuisine in a way that is thoughtful, immersive, and deeply connected to our island setting.”

With limited seats available for each event, reservations are highly recommended.

For more information, visit: Michelin-Star Magic in the Maldives.

(Source: Your Stories — Dusit International)

VMY2026 spotlights endangered Malayan Sun Bear

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Newsdesk
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KUALA LUMPUR, 23 February 2026: In conjunction with the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign, Malaysia is showcasing the nation’s rich biodiversity by promoting the Malayan Sun Bear as a key highlight of the country’s ecotourism offerings. 

The campaign focuses on introducing Wira and Manja, the official mascots of VM2026, inspired by iconic, endangered species.

The Malayan Sun Bear was chosen as the campaign’s official icon to symbolise Malaysia’s steadfast commitment to wildlife conservation. Designed in a friendly, engaging animated style, Wira and Manja are crafted to appeal to visitors of all ages, evoking warmth and cheerfulness. This approach further enhances Malaysia’s global image as a welcoming, vibrant and inclusive tourism destination.

Visitors can explore the natural habitats of the Malayan Sun Bear and interact with the VM2026 mascots at a range of key locations across the country:

• Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC), Sandakan, Sabah;

• Lok Kawi Wildlife Park, Sabah;

• Matang Wildlife Centre, Sarawak;

• Zoo Taiping and Night Safari, Perak;

• Lost World of Tambun, Perak;

• Zoo Negara Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur;

• 99 Wonderland Park, Kuala Lumpur;

• Sunway Lagoon Wildlife Park, Selangor;

• Zoo Melaka, Melaka;

• A’ Famosa Safari Wonderland, Malacca;

• Johor Zoo, Johor Bahru; and

• Kemaman Zoo and Recreation Park, Terengganu.

Through this campaign, Malaysia invites travellers to experience its unique wildlife, support conservation efforts and enjoy nature-based encounters that showcase the country’s rich biodiversity and ecotourism offerings.

In line with the VM2026 theme, the initiative highlights Malaysia as a sustainable and culturally vibrant destination. Visitors are encouraged to discover the inspiration behind Wira and Manja, Malaysia’s beloved mascots, in safe and protected environments. These experiences offer memorable journeys that celebrate the nation’s natural and cultural heritage.

Conservation efforts for the Malayan Sun Bear have seen a major surge in 2026, largely because the bear has been thrust into the national spotlight as the official mascot for Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

Sabah (Borneo)

Sabah is currently the global leader in sun bear research and protection, primarily through the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC) in Sepilok.

The Sun Bear Action Plan (2025–2034): Launched last year, this 10-year roadmap aims to eliminate illegal trade and create “wildlife corridors.” These corridors allow bears to travel between fragmented forests without entering oil palm plantations, where they often clash with humans.

The Tabin Sun Bear Project: This is a major 2026 focus. Since many bears rescued from the pet trade cannot be easily released (only about 1/3 survive in the wild long-term), this project monitors wild populations in the Tabin Wildlife Reserve to understand exactly what a “healthy” habitat looks like before releasing rehabilitated bears.

Tourism as Conservation: The BSBCC recently opened a new entrance foyer and is raising funds for a third observation platform to handle the influx of tourists in 2026. The goal is to use ticket sales to fund the 41 “non-releasable” bears that live at the centre permanently.

The “Mascot Effect” (2026)

By naming the sun bear the 2026 mascot (represented by the characters Wira and Manja), the government has essentially turned the bear into a “Protected Brand.”

Strict new penalties: Amendments to the Wildlife Conservation Act now mean that poaching a sun bear carries some of the highest fines in Malaysian history—up to RM250,000 ($55,000+) and mandatory jail time.

Public awareness: For the first time, sun bear conservation is being taught in schools nationwide as part of the 2026 tourism push, shifting perceptions from “dangerous pests” to “national treasures.”

For more information on the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign and Malaysia’s diverse tourism offerings, visit the official Tourism Malaysia website at www.tourism.gov.my. 

(Source: Tourism Malaysia)

Regent signs new ship order

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Newsdesk
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SINGAPORE, 20 February 2026: Regent Seven Seas Cruises has signed an agreement with Fincantieri to construct a fourth vessel in its Prestige‑Class series, scheduled for delivery in 2036. 

It will follow the debut of Seven Seas Prestige in December 2026, with the second and third Prestige‑Class ships entering service in 2030 and 2033, respectively. All four vessels will be built at Fincantieri shipyards in Italy.

Photo credit: Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Regent’s Prestige-Class ships will begin a new legacy in luxury travel with Seven Seas Prestige’s maiden voyage in December this year, marking Regent’s first new ship class in 10 years.

Seven Seas Prestige will be 40% larger than previous Regent ships, yet it accommodates only 10% more guests. At 77,000 tons and carrying just 822 guests with 630 dedicated crew members, the ship offers one of the highest space-to-guest and crew-to-guest ratios in the cruise industry.

Balcony suites will be offered in 12 categories, including four all-new suite types, including the largest all-inclusive, ultra luxury cruise ship suite in history: the Skyview Regent Suite. 

Regent offers inclusions in the cruise price such as unlimited shore excursions in every port of call, gourmet cuisine in a range of speciality dining venues, wines and spirits, onboard entertainment, Starlink WiFi access, valet laundry service, pre-paid gratuities, and a one-night pre-cruise hotel package for guests in Concierge-level suites and above.

Seven Seas Prestige’s inaugural season will explore destinations across the Caribbean and Europe with 13 voyages. Her maiden sailing departs on 13 December 2026, for a 14-night transatlantic journey from Barcelona to Miami. The season culminates with sailings along the Iberian Peninsula and the coast of France.

(Source: Regent Seven Seas)

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