Airbnb is offering guests the opportunity to experience this World Heritage Site – with an overnight stay in one of its historic homes

Situated on the shores of the Sho River and surrounded by high, rugged mountains, the nine-home village of Suganuma is one of the most beautiful and charming places in Japan. It is also one of the country’s best kept secrets. 

 

This summer, Airbnb is offering guests the opportunity to experience this World Heritage Site in a way no one else has in over 20 years – with an overnight stay in one of its historic homes. 

 

With great support from Nanto City and the Nakashima family – fifth generation locals – are listing their centuries-old, thatched-roof house on the platform, Airbnb will enable guests to explore Suganuma village in an incredibly authentic way. 

Following three years of travel restrictions, lockdowns and isolation, locals and travelers alike are seeking connection with the world around them. In a recent survey^[1], over 60 percent of respondents said they felt traveling on Airbnb provided a closer connection to the local culture than staying in a hotel or resort. Often regarded as a “hidden village” because it is without tourist accommodations (and typically, only residents are permitted to enter after dusk), Suganuma is a cultural time capsule. This unique Airbnb stay offers guests the opportunity to experience the village in a way that upholds its traditions and preserves its heritage for generations to come.  

The village’s Gassho-zukuri style farmhouses, like the Nakashimas’ family home, are particular to the region, with their pitched, thatched roof structures enabling these homes to withstand heavy winter snowfall and the test of time. The thatching technique is a local tradition that requires a great deal of time and effort, so locals work together based on the system of yui, the spirit of mutual support, in which Suganuma and its preservation are rooted.

 

“We are honored to offer a truly unique experience in Suganuma village, a World Heritage Site, through our collaboration with Airbnb. The rich history and vibrant culture of this charming small town, coupled with the warm hearts of the people who live there, will make for a fascinating and restorative stay. We hope this campaign brings attention to this beautiful destination for both Japanese residents and guests from around the world,” stated Mr. Mikio Tanaka, Mayor of Nanto City, Toyama Prefecture.

 

“I am delighted to open my family’s home for a unique stay that will enable guests to enjoy the traditional life of our beautiful village of Suganuma. Through our collaboration with Airbnb, my family and I look forward to providing guests with unique experiences that have been part of our village for centuries,” commented Mr. Shinichi Nakashima, Airbnb Host. 

About the stay

A beautiful example of living in harmony with nature, Suganuma is a feast for both the eyes and the soul. The Nakashima family are proud to invite one group of two guests* to see their peaceful valley for themselves for a two-night stay from July 17 - 19, 2023 for $0** – a nod to the priceless nature of the experience.

During their stay, guests will:

●      Enjoy a traditional welcome tea and local dishes prepared by Mr. Nakashima including Gokayama tofu, mountain vegetables and freshly-caught river fish.

●      Learn about local traditions that have been sustained for centuries, such as the making of washi, a paper made of local fiber, and the creation of sasara, a traditional instrument featured in one of the region’s oldest folk songs.

●      Enjoy a magical evening light show and folk song experience, where locals illuminate their traditional homes and local song and dance is showcased.

●      Participate in a hands-on workshop crafting thatched roofs emblematic of local Gassho-zukuri building techniques. 

●      Explore the sanctity of the village’s lush surroundings with a relaxing guided bike ride.

 

To facilitate disconnecting from technology and reconnecting with nature while on site, guests will receive a “Disconnect to Connect” kit that includes a  stationary set made of traditional washi paper, an instant camera and local aromatherapy kit.  

How to book

Those interested in exploring one of Japan’s hidden gems like a local can request to book this stay beginning Friday, June 30 at 9 a.m JST (Thursday, June 29 at 8 p.m. ET) at airbnb.com/gassho. 

 

Guests are responsible for their own travel to and from Suganuma village, and should note that this stay’s rules require following applicable local rules and guidelines as well as Airbnb’s COVID-19 Safety Practices, which will include wearing a mask and practicing social distancing when required by local laws or guidelines. On-site staff will also comply with local rules and guidelines while on-site, and will abide by our five-step enhanced cleaning process. 

 

Interested in becoming an Airbnb Host? Learn more at airbnb.com/host. 

 

*This two-night stay is available for one participant and their fellow guest and is not a contest.

**Inclusive of taxes and fees

 

Airbnb is closely monitoring Japanese COVID-19 infection rates and government policies. Airbnb will determine if it is necessary to cancel the stay.

 

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^[1] Airbnb users surveyed between December 2022 and March 2023. From over 19,000 respondents.

AirAsia is the World’s Best Low-Cost Airline for the 14th consecutive time at Skytrax

AirAsia has been voted the World’s Best Low-Cost Airline at the Skytrax World Airline Awards 2023 (Skytrax) for an unprecedented 14th consecutive time. 

As a global benchmark of airline quality and excellence, the final award results include more than 325 airlines with AirAsia emerging on top in its category. Over 100 nationalities of travellers participated in the online survey, with 20.23 million eligible entries counted in the results from September 2022 to May 2023, a period when AirAsia had steadily increased its network back to over 130 destinations.

This exceptional recognition comes as a resounding testament to the airline's recovery and robust growth in  its routes and passengers carried, alongside an unwavering commitment to innovation and providing exceptional service despite the challenges brought about by the global pandemic. As a result, AirAsia once again remains the top low-cost airline for travellers seeking the best for value and choice.

In accepting the award at a ceremony at the Paris Air Show 2023 in France on Tuesday, Capital A CEO, Tony Fernandes said: “We are immensely proud and grateful for this meaningful award given to us by the Skytrax organisers, voters, and the incredible supporters of AirAsia. Getting an award of excellence for 14 consecutive years is a remarkable achievement, one that fills our hearts with joy and humility. This is an extraordinary feat for any company in any industry, even more so for our proudly Asean brand.”

Edward Plaisted, CEO of Skytrax said: “AirAsia is a survey passenger favourite and have delivered a remarkable degree of consistency year-on-year since the World's Best Low-Cost Airline category was introduced to the awards programme in 2010. The recognition from customers should be a great source of pride for the airline management and staff in what has been a difficult period as travel returns after the Covid pandemic.”

With 170 planes already back in service across the Group, AirAsia expects to have all 204 reactivated by the end of August this year. Not only will it achieve 100% of pre-pandemic capacity in the coming months, the airline is also looking to spread its wings even further with the addition of 19 new planes which will take flight this year, including four Frontier planes.  

AirAsia has also recommenced its longer-term aircraft orders to bring its fleet to the biggest yet to have 362 planes, the first of which will be delivered in 2024. The airline is also looking forward to its cargo and logistics business Teleport to receive the first of the three dedicated A321Fs freighters in July, to boost volume and speed for cross-border deliveries in the region. 

AirAsia also reaffirms its commitment to excel in customer experience with numerous AI enhancements for its chatbot AskBo alongside the continued rollout of its own biometric facial recognition technology - FACES - on its core domestic routes, which will make flying and connecting with the airline more efficient and seamless than ever before.

Tony added: “People will always be the airline’s biggest asset and we are thrilled to confirm that all of our 22,000 Allstars who tirelessly strive to provide the best service and experience to millions of our guests, both on the ground and in the air are now back. This award is dedicated to Allstars and all 800 million guests and counting who have voted for AirAsia time and time again, for being a part of its incredible journey.”

Google Philippines led a powerful discussion featuring YouTube creators on the importance of allyship and the role of safe spaces online

Creating safe spaces is crucial in improving the quality of life of the LGBTQ+ community. In the fourth edition of its annual Pride Conversations, Google Philippines led a powerful discussion featuring YouTube creators on the importance of allyship and the role of safe spaces online and offline.

Hosted by Miss Trans Global 2020, actress, writer, and content creator Mela Habijan, the event delved into the inspiring stories of LGBTQ+ YouTube creators Marina Summers, Johnreyslife, JM Banquicio, Levi Reyes and Sara De Guzman.

“Pride Conversations, which uses the power of LGBTQ+ stories to create allyship, is part of Google’s deep commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. Aside from this annual event, Google supports and celebrates the LGBTQ+ community through an inclusive workplace culture and benefits, product features and policies, humanitarian grants, and so much more,” said Mervin Wenke, Communications and Public Affairs Head at Google Philippines.

Finding safe spaces

The LGBTQ+ community has historically been marginalized by many societies around the world. In the Philippines, the community continues to advocate for safe and inclusive spaces where they can feel comfortable about themselves, and not be discriminated against by the people around them.

With the rise of platforms such as YouTube, many find solace in the content shared by LGBTQ+ creators. For beauty creator Johnreyslife, YouTube helps her live authentically and makes a difference in the beauty space. “I used to face discrimination and hate for simply being 'morena' and 'trans’. Now because of YouTube and content creation, I'm able to break barriers in the beauty sphere and be a face of representation. Regardless of your sexual orientation, gender, or skin color, anyone is welcome and can succeed on YouTube. Keep striving and dreaming because dreams do come true!”

Sara De Guzman of DarlingsPH said that their digital journal for biking trips eventually grew to a supportive community that shares the same interests as her and her partner, Levi Reyes. “We realized that the content we put out there is not only a source of information, but also a source of inspiration,” Sara said.

“Putting content out there drives a powerful message that we are for inclusivity. We are queer people who are part of this vibrant community, and they love us for who we are, they accept us, and most of all, they respect us for who we are,” she added.

Creating safe spaces is also important for young LGBTQ+ kids who are still exploring their identity. It’s why drag queen and Drag Race Philippines contestant Marina Summers started her YouTube mini-series “Chasing the Sun,” where she showcases the art form of drag and the behind the scenes of her performances. For her, this was her way of telling stories that are close to her heart, while inspiring the younger generation and pushing for accurate representation of LGBTQ+ people.

“It’s a way for me to pat that little Marina on the back because she can finally watch herself on screen. This is also for the LGBTQ+ kids like me who are looking for people they can identify with on TV and social media,” Marina said. “We always talk about representation a lot. It really strikes a chord with someone looking for a sense of belongingness and representation in the media.”

What allyship means for the LGBTQ+ community

JM Banquicio’s travel vlog started out as a fun hobby outside of his corporate job. Now, he regularly uploads his trips on YouTube, and he cited his family as one of his main motivators. “It’s really different when your family supports what you’re doing. You can do anything as long as you have the support of your allies,” he said.

Allies can come in many forms. They can be family, friends, colleagues, an influential figure, and others. They help make sure that LGBTQ+ people feel accepted, and allow them to live authentically and fearlessly, especially in a conservative country like the Philippines.

Despite her initial concerns, Mela Habijan’s mom Irene Franco Habijan said she learned to accept Mela as she believed that God created her this way. She also defended Mela from discriminatory remarks, emphasizing that “God has given us all the assurance that we can all go to heaven, including people like Mela.”

For Johnrey, her ally is her good friend Kat Reyes. She recounted how Kat was there through all her ups and downs, and would give her helpful life advice. Because of their close bond, she affectionately refers to Kat as her “cousin” despite not being related by blood. 

Likewise, Kat also shared that she learned a lot from her friendship with Johnrey. “I learned how to glow up because of her. I learned how to accept what I have, and just enhance it, while still remembering that it’s still me from deep within. She’s a really inspiring woman,” she said.

LGBTQ+ people need allies who will empathize with them, or in Sara’s situation, cry with them. When she came out to her family, her youngest sister Clarisse De Guzman was crying with her because of how their parents and siblings might react. “I didn’t expect that my tears would turn into tears of joy at that moment because our family still loved Sara for who she is,” Clarisse said.

Levi expressed her gratitude to Clarisse for accepting and supporting their relationship. Apart from Clarisse, she also called the DarlingsPH community, which is made up of mostly straight people, as their allies. “We never stated in our videos that we were lesbians. But when people saw how genuine our relationship was when they watched us, they eventually became allies, too,” Levi said.

Content creator and Bekenemen producer Baus Rufo, who is Marina’s creative partner, consistently shows his allyship by ensuring that drag queens are treated well in shows. “Drag is not cheap. It takes a lot of effort to look this good.  The least us producers can do is to make sure they are properly valued, and they are seen for all the efforts they put into a three- to five-minute performance, which takes a lot of preparation,” he said. “I’ll never stop lending a hand and supporting drag queens like Marina.”

This just goes to show that safe spaces online and offline aren’t just places LGBTQ+ people can go to and hang out. They can also be found in the allies who love and support them unconditionally, as well as the content creators they can resonate with.

“Sometimes we don’t need to go to safe spaces. Sometimes the safe space is us,” Marina said.

LEIGH-ANNE RELEASES DEBUT SINGLE AND MUSIC VIDEO “DON’T SAY LOVE”

 

Today, Leigh-Anne releases debut single ‘Don’t Say Love’ with an accompanying music video via Warner Records out now.

 

Listen to Don’t Say Love - 

Watch Don’t Say Love - 

 

As the first glimpse into Leigh-Anne's rebirth as a solo artist, ‘Don’t Say Love’ sees the singer show us a side to herself she is finally ready to share. Produced by Jon Bellion and Pete Nappi, co-written by Aldae, the track combines her smooth vocals with a high-energy, garage-infused beat, touching upon black music references. 

 

Speaking on the track Leigh-Anne explains "“Don’t Say Love” is about no longer seeking external validation and regaining my confidence and sense of self in a world where I often felt misunderstood and unheard. This video is a visual representation of me finding my voice. I’m excited to continue to do so with my first love, music”

 

Credit: Hugo Comte
Directed by Emil Nava, the music video follows Leigh-Anne’s captivating journey. Navigating the vibrant streets, we are drawn into her internal struggle where she flickers between reality and fantasy, exploring the complexities of love. As each scene unfolds Leigh-Anne’s quest to find herself becomes more prominent. The music video starts with Leigh-Anne unmasking a braided hair sculpture with a love heart mouthpiece and culminates in a powerful moment, representing the end of an old chapter and the dawn of a new era, marking Leigh-Anne’s rebirth as a solo artist.

 

Growing up Leigh-Anne had popstar tunnel vision. In 2011, Little Mix were formed. The rest of that journey is, of course, history. 11 years later, Little Mix are one of the best-selling girl groups of all time as well as one of the UK’s biggest-selling acts, with over 75 million records sold worldwide, 6 UK Platinum albums and over 15 billion streams.

 

Stay tuned for more from Leigh-Anne.

 

 

If you’re a Metrobank cardholder, here are five perks you can enjoy at the Big Bad Wolf Manila

Bookworms are in for an exciting treat at this year’s highly anticipated return of Big Bad Wolf Book Sale Manila with special offers from its first official bank partner, Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co. (Metrobank). 

 

For a truly unique book shopping experience at this year’s book sale, Metrobank has exclusive offers for its valued credit and debit cardholders from June 22 to July 3, 2023. 

So if you’re a Metrobank cardholder, here are five perks you can enjoy at the Big Bad Wolf Manila:

 

1.    Exclusive one-day access on June 22 for Metrobank cardholders

Get first dibs on your favorite books during the exclusive day for Metrobank credit and debit cardholders on June 22. Doors open at 2:00 PM onwards. Cardholders who are able to enter the venue prior queing cut-off of 8:00PM can purchase books until 1:00 AM.

2.    Easier checkout with Metrobank Exclusive Payment Lanes 

Metrobank cardholders are entitled to dedicated payment lanes for an easier checkout experience. Just look for the Metrobank logo        as you approach the counters. 

 

3.    0% installment on your book haul!

Enjoy flexibility when you pay for your latest book haul! Avail 0% installment for 3 months for a minimum single-receipt purchase of PHP3,000 with your Metrobank credit card. 

 

 

4.    Up to 10% cashback

If you’re a big book shopper with purchases of PHP5,000 and up using your Metrobank credit card, you can even score up to 10% cashback so you can make the most out of your shopping budget and bring home more books! 

5.    Chill at the Metrobank VIP Lounge

Finding hidden gems at the sale can be tiring. If you’re a qualified Metrobank World Mastercard, Platinum Mastercard and Travel Platinum Visa credit cardholder, enjoy exclusive access at Metrobank’s lounge where you can rest and spend time reading books. 

 

What are you waiting for? Head to the Big Bad Wolf Manila on June 22 with your Metrobank card!

 

Don’t have a Metrobank Credit card yet? No need to worry, because Metrobank will be accepting applications at a special booth located at the sale. Qualified applicants can get either zero annual fees or 120,000 welcome rewards points for select cards and amounts of accumulated spend. You may also visit https://apply.metrobank.com.ph/creditcard before the event to possibly enjoy the exclusive Metrobank benefits. 

 

So make sure to drop by at the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale, where over 2 million books await book lovers from June 23 to July 3, 2023 from 10:00 AM to 1:00 AM at PICC Tent Forum, Pasay. 

 

Follow Metrobank and Metrobank Card PH on Instagram and Facebook to learn more.