A Caribbean Black Friday Travel Deal

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, New York, NY, November 29, 2024: Get ready for a Caribbean travel deal this Black Friday.

The Courtleigh Hotel and Suites, a boutique-chic gem in the heart of New Kingston, Jamaica, is offering an exclusive Black Friday/Cyber Monday Sale for 2024. Guests can enjoy up to 25% off published rates for bookings made through December 3, 2024, with stays available anytime through December 31, 2025.

“This is the perfect opportunity to plan your getaway and experience Kingston’s finest all-suite hotel,” said Nicola Madden-Greig, Group Director of Marketing and Sales. “With this deal, travelers can enjoy a year’s worth of savings just in time for the holidays.”

The promotion requires a minimum two-night stay, and blackout dates apply from December 29, 2024, to January 1, 2025, and April 25–28, 2025. Rates are subject to a 10% government tax, a 10% service charge, and a $4.00 per-room, per-night occupancy tax.

The Courtleigh Hotel, known for its elegant ambiance, personalized service, and modern amenities, offers guests a prime location close to Kingston’s top attractions like Devon House, The Bob Marley Museum, and Emancipation Park.

For more details and reservations, visit Courtleigh Hotel Specials.

Beres Hammond’s Just A Man Reissued for RSD Black Friday

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, New York, NY, November 28, 2024: Jamaican legendary reggae crooner, Beres Hammond’s Just A Man is set for an exclusive reissue on Black Friday, tomorrow, November 29, 2024.

Beres Hammond – Just A Man

It will be released through 17 North Parade, an imprint of VP Records, in collaboration with Harmony House, as part of RSD Black Friday. This limited-edition release features a newly remastered colored vinyl pressing, complete with the original “Rolls Royce” cover art—a collector’s gem.

Originally released by Joe Gibbs in 1979, Just A Man highlights Hammond’s early versatility, blending reggae with funk, R&B, and disco. The album, produced in collaboration with Willie Lindo and Ivor Lindo, includes tracks like “Do This World a Favour” and “Keep My Wheel Turning,” which remain beloved on the Funk & Soul scene as 2-step dancefloor classics.

This reissue offers fans a fresh opportunity to experience Hammond’s early musical experimentation, supported by an all-star lineup of musicians, including Val Douglas, Mikey Chung, Dean Fraser, Clive Hunt, Harold Butler, Robbie Lyn, and Pam Hall. The remastering enhances the album’s intricate arrangements, delivering an enriched listening experience.

With a career spanning over four decades, Hammond is celebrated as one of reggae’s iconic voices, known for hits like “Rock Away” and “They Gonna Talk.” Honored with the Order of Jamaica and an honorary doctorate from the University of the West Indies, his influence on reggae and lovers rock remains unmatched.

Just A Man will be available at participating RSD Black Friday stores.

Guyana Thoughtfully Navigates Geopolitical Tides

/0 Comments/in /by

By Ron Cheong

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Weds. Nov. 27, 2024: Former Australian Prime Dr. Kevin Rudd, in his address on “The Challenge for Small States in Navigating Turbulent Geopolitical Times,” said: “… this geopolitical contest for regional and global dominance is intensifying at a time when new grave global challenges are sweeping across the world with a sharpening intensity — led by an emerging global climate crisis, the ever-present risk of global pandemics, and the revolutionary impact of artificial intelligence on all past assumptions concerning human agency, economic competitiveness, and national security writ large…”

Guyana’s Pragmatic Approach

Buffeted by the challenges of being caught in Superpower Geopolitical Rivalries, a brand new oil economy with staggering challenges, existential national security challenges and all the other pressures, Guyana’s leaders in recent years have reacted swiftly and adeptly; perhaps fore-armed with the benefit of a historical retrospective of at what the country has been through and just how long and hard the road back has been.  More than most small states, Guyana’s very survival will depend less on dogma and idealism and more on the tough disciplined approach of thoughtful yet swift pragmatic action. 

When Donald Trump became President-elect, Guyana’s leaders were quick to congratulate him, even while others held back.  And they pointed to the role of US the Ambassador to Guyana Sarah-Ann Lynch and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo’s role in ensuring the transition of power after Guyana’s last election.  They said they expected that type of relation to carry on into Trump 2.0.

They also praised Secretary of State pick Marco Rubio for supporting for a US $180 million IDB loan to Guyana Shore Base Project, a consortium which services the country’s growing oil industry.   The Biden administration blocked the loan in 2022 while at the same time lifting sanctions on Venezuela’s fossil fuel industry. 

They have also been cultivating friendships and allies in the region.  And last week they lavishly hosted Prime Minister Modi of India who seems to have charmed Trump and has a good friendship with him.

Over the three-day visit Modi was treated to cultural delights and he even participated in singing Bhajans.  Modi called Guyana President Dr. Irfaan Ali and two former Presidents Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo and Donald Ramotar brand ambassadors for Guyana.  At the climax of the visit, Modi was conferred with Guyana’s highest civilian honour, The Order of Excellence, by President Dr. Irfaan Ali for Modi’s “visionary statesmanship, championing the rights of developing countries on the global stage, exceptional service to the global community and for his commitment to strengthening India-Guyana relations.”

It’s good to have friends with contacts, especially in Trump world were so much depends on the relationship.

Another plus of sorts is that Elon Musk, Trump’s main cheerleader, ever present buddy and word’s richest man has expressed an interest in providing Starlink internet services to Guyana.  Although this is a two-edged sword in which Musk’s deep pockets could eventually establish a monopoly and deepen Guyana’s reliance on the US, the alternatives vis a vie Venezuela assuages apprehensions.

Whatever we may think of Trump, these are thoughtful initiatives by a small country whose very survival and that of its citizens could well depend on the goodwill of the United States.

Venezuela Challenge

Guyana needs the US and its gunboats in its corner, if only as a deterrent.  Venezuela has laid claim to two-thirds of Guyana’s territory, challenging the 1899 Paris arbitral award which set the boundaries of the two countries.  Both negotiating parties Venezuela and Britain at the time, accepted the award.  Some 70 years later Venezuela started producing maps which showed about two-thirds of Guyana as Venezuelan territory.  And in 2023 Venezuela said it would be issuing Venezuelan identity document to the people in Guyana’s Essequibo region.

There is a vast disparity in the sizes and military capabilities of the counties.  Venezuela has a population of about 29 million down about 2 million from refugees fleeing the country and an army of 343,000.  Guyana has a population of less than a million and about 4,000 active and reserve personnel.

So when it was revealed that the previous government negotiated a lopsided revenue agreement with Exxon far less beneficial than the agreement with next door neighbour Suriname, Vice-President Jagdeo declined to try to renegotiate the contract both from the point of view of the message it would send to potential investors and from the point of view that contracts should be honoured.  It is possible that consideration was also given to leaving the contract as is afforded some more protections from Venezuela, who would think twice before intruding on Exxon’s licensed area.

US China Geopolitics

On top of this, Guyana faces a complex set of dynamics, where they are now forced to make a binary choice between the US and China.  During decades of US neglect of Latin America and the Caribbean, China extended their hand and financing in the region building up goodwill and influence.

When President Biden took office he sought to mend alliances broken during the Trump years and bring the US back into the family of nations.  He sought to re-establish coalitions and together with allies to put up a front against China’s growing influence.

US, Vice-President Kamala Harris started an initiative last year in part to counter the growing Chinese influence in the Caribbean. The initiative’s stated goals were to improve Regional Food and Energy Security and also to moderate climate change, Guyana is a lynch pin in all these initiatives, but it also forces a choice between the US and China.  Recently the Guyana’s governing political party removed Marxism-Leninism and socialism from its constitution.  In fact, the party has long taken a pro-private sector approach combined with progressive housing, education and health policies since the 1990’s when it returned to power; so in many ways the move was symbolic, and an affirmation of its status to onlookers that it had thrown its lot in with the US and UK as it’s major security and trading partners. 

The Road Ahead and Behind

Guyana which is 85% covered by forest, has long been a leader in environmental conversation with its Low Carbon Development Strategy. Vice-President Jagdeo, who was President of Guyana at the time was named a Time Hero of the environment in 2008.  And in 2009 Jagdeo inked a deal Norwegian Environment Minster Erik Solheim in which he pledged US$250 million to Guyana for preserving its forests.  With an average annual deforestation rate of 0.053% since 2018 and its abundant arable land this all fit well with the Biden administration but would be less of a priority with a Trump administration.

Guyana has come a long way.  Viewed as communist in the 1960’s it was swept aside by geopolitical forces that led to a downward spiral.  Three decades ago, the country had become the 2nd poorest country in the Western Hemisphere behind Haiti before it began to make a remarkable comeback.  Long before it became popular Guyana was leading the world with its environmental conservation.  Before oil in 2015 it was the fastest growing economy in the Region with its National Development strategy and Its Low Carbon Development strategy as center pieces of their economy.  Guyana is now the fastest growing economy in the world.  GDP grew by 33% (US$20.6 billion) in 2023 and is expected to be in the 20% range in 2024. 

The country is clearly making all efforts to continue to build a prosperous future for its citizens and not to be sidelined by geopolitical forces again.

This Caribbean Country Has Had Over 1,000 Murders So Far This Year

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, New York, NY, November 26, 2024: One Caribbean country has recorded over a 1,000 murders so far this year, and its not Haiti.

Jamaica has recorded over 1,000 murders so far this year, underscoring ongoing challenges with violent crime on the island.

As of November 23, the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) reported a total of 1,039 homicides. This marks an increase from the 995 murders recorded during the same period last year. The deadliest week of 2024 occurred recently, with 44 murders in just seven days.

Despite the rise in total numbers, the JCF noted that the overall murder rate has dipped by two percentage points compared to 2023, bringing the year-on-year murder decline to 18%.

Among the 19 police divisions, St. James leads with 117 murders, followed by St. Andrew South at 107. Westmoreland, 94, St. Catherine North, 86, and St. Catherine South, 74, round out the top five divisions with the highest murder counts. Encouragingly, five divisions have recorded a decline in murders compared to last year. Additionally, other serious crimes – including shootings, injuries, rape, robbery, and break-ins – are down across the board.

The grim statistics come just days after Canada issued a travel advisory urging its citizens to exercise extreme caution when visiting Jamaica. The advisory warns of violent crimes such as armed robbery and murder, particularly in urban areas like Kingston and Montego Bay. It highlights high-risk neighborhoods, including Tivoli Gardens, Trench Town, and Norwood Gardens, where gang-related activity and gun violence are prevalent. Tourists were advised to remain vigilant and avoid these areas.

The news also comes as the US recently said guns sent from America dominate Caribbean crime scenes.

Canada Issues Travel Advisories For Several Caribbean Nations

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. Nov. 25, 2024: The Canadian government has issued travel advisories for several Caribbean nations, urging nationals to exercise caution due to violent crimes and safety concerns. Countries listed include The Bahamas, Jamaica, Belize, the Dominican Republic, Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago.

Canada warns nationals to avoid high-crime areas in Georgetown and tourist sites such as Stabroek Market and the Botanical Gardens.

The Bahamas

Travelers to The Bahamas are warned about violent crimes linked to gang activity, particularly in Nassau, Freeport, and Grand Bahama Island. Incidents such as armed robbery, sexual assault, and home invasions have occurred, even in tourist areas and cruise ship terminals. During the holiday season, crime rates tend to rise. Canadian authorities advise tourists to:

Stay in tourist areas

Avoid walking alone at night

Refrain from carrying large amounts of cash

Jamaica

Jamaica’s advisory highlights violent crime, including armed robbery and murder, in urban areas such as Kingston and Montego Bay. High-risk neighborhoods, known as “hot spots,” experience gang-related activity and gun violence. Tourists are also at risk of theft and robberies. Travelers are urged to avoid affected areas and remain vigilant, especially in Kingston and Montego Bay neighborhoods such as Tivoli Gardens, Trench Town, and Norwood Gardens.

Dominican Republic

Crime in the Dominican Republic, especially in major cities, includes theft, pickpocketing, and bag-snatching. Tourists are often targeted, particularly at resorts, beaches, and airports. Canadians are advised to:

Stay in secure accommodations

Avoid displaying valuables

Be cautious of hustlers and overly helpful strangers

Guyana

In Guyana, both petty and violent crime are prevalent. Foreigners are frequently targeted for pickpocketing, armed robberies, and carjackings. Visitors are urged to avoid high-crime areas in Georgetown and tourist sites such as Stabroek Market and the Botanical Gardens. Precautions include:

Avoiding large cash transactions

Staying in secure accommodations

Being vigilant when entering or leaving public places

Trinidad & Tobago

Non-essential travel is advised against certain areas in Trinidad & Tobago, including Beetham Estate Gardens and Laventille, due to gang-related violence. Travelers are urged to avoid these high-crime zones.

Belize

Southside Belize City is flagged for non-essential travel due to gang violence, murders, and shootings. Travelers should avoid this area entirely.

Additional Warnings

Canada advises against all travel to Haiti due to the threat posed by kidnappings, gang violence and the potential for civil unrest throughout the country. Travelers to Cuba are also urged to exercise caution as shortages of food, medicine, and fuel persist.

Canadian authorities recommend that all travelers remain vigilant, secure their belongings, and stay informed of local conditions while visiting these destinations.

Navigating the Taiwan-China Divide: A Caribbean Perspective on Diplomatic Balancing

/0 Comments/in /by

By Dr. Isaac Newton

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. Nov. 25, 2024: The Caribbean’s diplomatic landscape is shaped by competing alliances with Taiwan and China, reflecting broader global geopolitical dynamics. As Caribbean leaders balance these alliances, the stakes for development, economic growth, and political autonomy are high. Navigating this divide requires careful strategy, with an eye on shifting power structures that could have profound implications for the region’s sovereignty and future growth.

FLASHBACK – Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te (L) escorts Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis Terrance Drew during a ceremonial welcome at the Presidential Office in Taipei on June 24, 2024.(Photo by SAM YEH/AFP via Getty Images)

The Taiwan vs. China Alignment: Benefits and Drawbacks

Caribbean nations aligned with Taiwan benefit from targeted financial aid, scholarships, and infrastructural support, particularly in healthcare, education, and agriculture. Taiwan’s “checkbook diplomacy” has helped fill development gaps, but its limited international influence often means these benefits don’t translate into substantial geopolitical leverage. Conversely, Caribbean nations with ties to China gain access to significant investments, infrastructure projects, and trade opportunities, notably through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). However, these partnerships come with the risks of mounting debt, economic dependence, and a political obligation to adhere to China’s One-China policy, which may diminish regional autonomy.

The Developmental Stakes

The diplomatic split poses significant developmental challenges. For smaller island economies, Taiwan’s focused aid offers manageable growth, while China’s large-scale investments can dramatically reshape economies but with potential long-term fiscal dependence. The divide also threatens the Caribbean’s collective voice, weakening regional cooperation through CARICOM, which could undermine the region’s ability to leverage its unified influence in global forums.

Leveraging Dual Partnerships for Mutual Benefit

Despite the divide, Caribbean nations can reframe this situation as an opportunity for dual partnerships. By encouraging both Taiwan and China to compete constructively for influence, countries can secure agreements that prioritize sustainable, region-focused development over geopolitical allegiance. Transparent agreements with both powers could help mitigate dependency risks while maximizing the benefits each offers.

A Shift in Political Sentiments

Electoral shifts in Taiwan over the next two cycles are likely to tilt the island towards pro-China policies, marking a significant turning point in its international relationships. This change is partly driven by pragmatic concerns: Taiwan’s increasing diplomatic isolation and the growing economic and political clout of China present a complex reality for Taiwan’s future. For the Caribbean, this realignment could necessitate a pivot in diplomatic strategies. Countries currently aligned with Taiwan might find it increasingly difficult to maintain exclusive ties, as Taiwan’s resources and global advocacy shift toward prioritizing relations with China. Rather than seeing this as a loss, Caribbean leaders should view the realignment as an opportunity to adapt, balancing continued engagement with Taiwan while forging new, strategically sound ties with China.

Embracing the One-China Policy?

As China’s global influence strengthens, Caribbean leaders face mounting pressure to embrace the One-China policy, particularly as the United States has formalized its support. Given the Caribbean’s limited diplomatic leverage and resources, maintaining a neutral stance may no longer be viable. A collective, regional approach focusing on development priorities could help Caribbean nations navigate these competing pressures while preserving their sovereignty and international standing. Strategic engagement with both Taiwan and China, focusing on national and regional interests, will be key.

The Path Forward

To manage these complexities, Caribbean leaders should adopt a pragmatic approach:
1. Diversifying Partnerships: Engage with both Taiwan and China while ensuring fair terms that align with national development goals.
2. Strengthening Regional Unity: Use CARICOM to craft a unified policy that enhances the Caribbean’s collective diplomatic voice.
3. Managing Risks: Ensure transparency and sustainability in foreign investments to avoid debt traps and preserve fiscal sovereignty.
4. Adapting to Global Trends: Stay attuned to shifts in international power dynamics and adjust policies accordingly.
5. Building Resilience Through Innovation: Invest in local innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable industries that reduce reliance on external powers. By fostering homegrown solutions, the Caribbean can increase its resilience to global shifts and preserve its economic sovereignty.

The Taiwan-China divide presents both challenges and opportunities for the Caribbean. By leveraging dual partnerships wisely, fostering regional cooperation, and preparing for shifts in global power dynamics, the region can navigate these complexities and secure sustainable development while maintaining political autonomy.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Dr. Isaac Newton is a globally recognized governance expert, foreign policy strategist, and leadership consultant with over 30 years of experience advising governments, international organizations, and corporate entities. Harvard, Princeton, and Columbia-trained, Dr. Newton specializes in crafting innovative solutions to complex geopolitical challenges, with a focus on leveraging diplomatic partnerships for sustainable development. His insightful analysis and strategic guidance have positioned him as a leading voice on Caribbean regional affairs and global power dynamics.

Petronas Steps Up as Exxon Exits Key Guyana Oil Block

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, New York, NY, November 22, 2024: Malaysian energy giant Petronas is emerging as a key player in Guyana’s energy landscape, taking center stage in a shallow-water oil block there after the Exxon Mobil-led consortium ended talks with the Guyanese government.

Exxon Mobil, along with Hess Corporation and China’s Cnooc, had secured the offshore Block S8 in a 2022 bidding round. However, negotiations faltered this year as Exxon reportedly sought to use the area for carbon capture and storage. “We don’t want to do that at this stage,” said Guyana Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo.

This shift mirrors a similar development in neighboring Suriname earlier this week, where Exxon pulled out of an offshore oil block, leaving Petronas as the sole operator of what is considered one of the country’s most promising energy projects.

INVEST CARIBBEAN NOW

As Exxon refocuses its regional strategy, Petronas stands poised to strengthen its position in the energy sector across Guyana and Suriname.

Petroliam Nasional Berhad, known as PETRONAS, is Malaysia’s state-owned multinational oil and gas company headquartered in Kuala Lumpur. Founded in 1974, the company oversees all of Malaysia’s oil and gas resources and operates in over 100 countries, contributing significantly to the nation’s economy.

Ranked 216th on the 2022 Fortune Global 500 list and identified by the Financial Times as one of the “new seven sisters” of influential state-owned oil companies, PETRONAS engages in a wide range of activities. These include upstream exploration, downstream refining, gas processing, LNG marketing, petrochemical production, shipping, and even property investments. From 2015 to 2020, it provided over 15% of Malaysia’s government revenue, underscoring its critical role in the country’s development.

India PM Gets Top Guyana Award

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, New York, NY, November 21, 2024: The Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, has been honored with the Order of Excellence by Guyana’s President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali. The prestigious national award, established in 1970 under the Constitution of the Orders of Guyana, is reserved for only 25 living Guyanese citizens and is rarely bestowed on non-nationals.

India PM Narendra Modi is presented with Guyana’s top award by President of Guyana, r., Dr. Irfaan Ali.

The honorary ceremony, held earlier this week, was accompanied by a vibrant cultural display showcasing Guyana’s rich heritage. The award recognizes Prime Minister Modi’s exceptional leadership in championing the interests of developing nations on the global stage.

President Ali highlighted Modi’s pivotal role during the COVID-19 pandemic, when India donated 500,000 vaccines to the Caribbean region despite its own domestic challenges. Of these, 80,000 vaccines were sent to Guyana, a gesture Ali credited with saving thousands of lives.

“The greatest test of any member of the human family is to give of their very little when they are most in need. And Prime Minister Modi fulfilled this test with distinction,” President Ali remarked during the ceremony.

India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi (C) is welcomed upon landing for an official visit to Guyana, at the airport in Georgetown late on November 19, 2024. (Photo by Denis CHABROL / AFP) (Photo by DENIS CHABROL/AFP via Getty Images)

Ali also emphasized India’s longstanding support for Guyana, including contributions in training, scholarships, military exchanges, concessional loans, and cultural cooperation. He praised Modi for promoting technological innovation, digitization, and inclusive development that benefits the Global South.

“In every sphere of national development, we can point to physical, institutional, and systemic support from the government and people of India. We salute you, Prime Minister Modi, and the people of India. Continue to lead boldly and inspire in this complex global environment,” Ali declared.

The President also affirmed that Modi is, and will always remain, a member of the CARICOM family.

In his acceptance speech, Prime Minister Modi expressed deep gratitude to President Ali and the people of Guyana for the honor, noting the close historical and cultural ties between the two nations. He commended Ali’s leadership in strengthening bilateral relations, stating, “Under his leadership, we are continuously moving forward in every direction.” Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to enhancing cooperation with Guyana and the Caribbean region.

During his three-day state visit to Guyana, Modi participated in discussions aimed at bolstering partnerships and witnessed a vibrant showcase of Guyana’s diverse cultural heritage. His visit marks a significant milestone in the relationship between the two nations.

Elon Musk Now Has His Eyes On Guyana

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, New York, NY, November 21, 2024: Elon Musk is now reportedly eyeing the oil rich CARICOM, South American nation of Guyana even as he positions himself to become one of the most powerful men in the Donald Trump administration.

Startlink, SpaceX, Tesla and X CEO Elon Musk raises his hands as he takes the stage during a campaign rally for Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump in November 2024. (Photo by Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images)

The SpaceX and satellite Internet service, Starlink founder, is eyeing a license to operate in Guyana, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo announced Thursday. The move could bring new connectivity opportunities to the country, particularly for remote hinterland regions.

Starlink, a satellite Internet constellation operated by SpaceX and founded by the billionaire entrepreneur, X owner, Trump campaign backer and newly appointed co-head of the Department of Government Efficiency, an entity Trump indicated will operate outside the confines of government, is currently under review by the Guyanese government.

Speaking at his weekly press conference today, Dr. Jagdeo said the proposal is “actively being considered” and highlighted the potential benefits of granting Starlink an official license, including tax revenue for the government.

Currently, Starlink services are informally accessed in Guyana, with private individuals importing the equipment to provide internet access to underserved areas. Dr. Jagdeo noted that this arrangement is inequitable for other companies offering similar services, as they are required to pay taxes. An approved license for Starlink would ensure the company adheres to the same regulatory standards.

Discussions about Starlink’s potential entry into Guyana were first revealed after a meeting in July between President Dr. Irfaan Ali and Elon Musk. The Office of the President described the talks as focusing on economic innovation, technological advancements, and opportunities within various sectors of Guyana’s rapidly growing economy.

If approved, Starlink’s presence could significantly boost Internet connectivity across Guyana, particularly in regions where traditional infrastructure has struggled to meet demand.

ABOUT STARLINK

Starlink is a satellite internet service operated by Starlink Services, LLC, a subsidiary of SpaceX, the American aerospace company founded by Musk. With coverage extending to over 100 countries and territories, Starlink aims to provide high-speed global mobile broadband, playing a pivotal role in SpaceX’s growth trajectory.

Since launching its first satellites in 2019, SpaceX has deployed over 7,000 small satellites into low Earth orbit (LEO) as of September 2024. This figure is expected to grow, with plans for up to 34,400 satellites in the future. The network achieved a milestone of 1 million subscribers in December 2022 and reached 4 million by September 2024.

Starlink satellites are developed and controlled at SpaceX’s Redmond, Washington facility, where research, manufacturing, and orbit management take place. The ambitious project, estimated in 2018 to cost $10 billion, reported $1.4 billion in revenue in 2022. By 2024, that figure is projected to rise to $6.6 billion.

Starlink has also found critical applications in government operations, including its use in the Russo-Ukrainian War under a U.S. Department of Defense contract. SpaceX has introduced “Starshield,” a version of Starlink tailored for military and government use.

While Starlink has transformed internet access globally, it has faced criticism from astronomers over potential disruptions to ground-based astronomy and concerns about orbital congestion. SpaceX has implemented measures to reduce satellite brightness and equipped satellites with collision-avoidance technology and Hall-effect thrusters for safe de-orbiting.

Starlink continues to advance global connectivity, bridging digital divides and expanding its impact across industries and regions.

Vie L’Ven Resort & Residences announces its sponsorship of Dutch sailing team at 15th edition of St. Barth Cata-Cup

/0 Comments/in /by

News Americas, TORONTO, Canada, Tues. November 19, 2024: Vie L’Ven Resort & Residences, a luxurious 280-room resort and residences that promises to redefine island living on the shores of Indigo Bay, St. Maarten, today announced its sponsorship of a Dutch team at the 15th edition of the St. Barth Cata-Cup Regatta, taking place from November 20th to 24th, 2024.  Set against the idyllic backdrop of Saint Barthélemy from November 20th to 24th, 2024, this high-profile catamaran regatta draws 55 elite teams from around the globe and stands as a testament to the Caribbean’s vibrant sailing culture.

The St. Barth Cata-Cup has grown into one of the region’s most iconic regattas, attracting sailors and enthusiasts alike for its blend of world-class competition and island camaraderie. Vie L’Ven is proud to sponsor a team that embodies these same values, underscoring the resort’s commitment to preserving and celebrating St. Maarten’s maritime heritage. Celebrating the island’s rich Dutch and French heritage, the vibrant resort and residence name is rooted in the essence of ‘life’ and ‘living’ through this unique fusion. As a property situated on the Dutch side of St. Maarten, Vie L’Ven draws upon this deep cultural connection by supporting a Dutch team that resonates with both island tradition and the international sailing community.

Through this sponsorship, Vie L’Ven aims to create an authentic experience for Cata-Cup attendees and prospective residents alike, highlighting the resort as a gateway to the island’s natural beauty and sailing spirit. Vie L’Ven’s upcoming on-property yacht dock, will make it easier than ever for residents and guests to explore the surrounding waters and islands, like St. Barthélemy and Anguilla—ideal for those drawn to the lifestyle of the sea.

The resort and residences is honored to support Team HorseRiding, composed of the father & son duo and Dutch natives, Ad Noordzij and Maarten Noordzij, who have been sailing together in the F18 class for over a decade. Their passion for sailing and dedication to the sport embody the spirit of community and excellence that Vie L’Ven champions as a proud member of Sint Maarten’s Dutch heritage. Their partnership was born out of a shared love for catamaran sailing that began with family adventures and grew into a serious pursuit. Ad, who rekindled his passion for catamaran sailing after years in South America, introduced Maarten to competitive sailing at age 15. Since then, their bond has deepened, evolving from father-son dynamics to a true team connection on the water.

Known within the F18 class for their hands-on approach, Ad and Maarten’s catamaran has been modified with custom innovations that improve their performance. From a Bluetooth-enabled communication system to lightweight line setups, their boat has become a reflection of their meticulous attention to detail and commitment to their craft. This spirit of ingenuity and resilience, paired with Maarten’s emerging tactical skills and Ad’s wealth of experience, embodies the essence of Vie L’Ven’s approach to luxury and personalized design.

“Vie L’Ven is proud to champion the Dutch Team HorseRiding at the St. Barth Cata-Cup, embracing the spirit of Caribbean maritime heritage alongside our Dutch roots,” shared Zev Mandelbaumm, CEO of  Vie L’Ven Resort & Residences. “This partnership reflects our dedication to excellence, creativity, and community as we look forward to our grand opening in the high season of 2027/2028.”

With the completion of the project on track for High-Season 2027/2028, Vie L’Ven is the vision of  Altree Developments, a leader in the international real estate landscape, rooted in a 70-year multi-generational family legacy in the development industry. Committed to redefining Caribbean luxury, the concept for Vie L’Ven has been brought to life by renowned partners Studio Munge, HKS Architects and Leading Hotels of The World, all of whom have been recognized globally for their dedication to creating world-class properties.

With luxurious amenities, including a dedicated Les Clefs d’Or concierge team, three distinct pools, the largest destination spa in the Caribbean, pickleball and tennis courts, on-beach water sports, children’s playroom and childcare services, a nature reserve and dining concepts led by Michelin-starred Chef Alain Ducasse, the resort is poised to become the Caribbean’s premier address.

Vie L’Ven’s residences, with sales being led by St. Maarten Sotheby’s International Realty, celebrates the natural beauty of the island with expansive layouts, oceanfront views, and private plunge pools, ready to welcome residents. Residences start from the $900,000s (USD).

Visitors to the St. Barth Cata-Cup are invited to stop by the Vie L’Ven booth, where the resort team will be on-site to share exclusive insights about the luxury experiences awaiting at Indigo Bay.

For sales inquiries contact +1-721-544-1545 | info@vielven.com or visit vielven.com or the presentation gallery on Indigo Bay Boulevard in Indigo Bay, St. Maarten.

About Vie L’Ven

Inspired by the Dutch-French heritage of St. Maarten, Vie L’Ven Resort & Residences is a vibrant hideaway embodying the essence of ‘life’ and ‘living’. Nestled on the secluded shores of Indigo Bay, the 280-residence destination is an idyllic retreat where memories are made and each moment invites your return. Offering a curated lifestyle, amenities include a Beach Club, three outdoor pools, a private yacht dock, tennis and pickleball courts, and a destination spa with breathtaking bay views. Guests embark on a culinary journey with Michelin-starred Chef Alain Ducasse, whose menu celebrates the island’s rich natural bounty. Crafted by Studio Munge and HKS Architects, Vie L’Ven is more than a destination; it’s a living, breathing utopia where the island’s essence is savored in its most exquisite form.

About Altree Developments

Altree Developments is a leader in the international real estate landscape, rooted in a 70-year multi-generational family legacy in the development industry. Under the visionary leadership of Zev Mandelbaum, Altree is redefining urban living by transforming strategic residential and commercial sites into leading destinations. With an admirable portfolio that includes ultra-luxury condominiums and expansive master-planned communities, Altree’s influence stretches across some of the most coveted addresses in Canada, America, and now, St. Maarten. Driven by an unwavering commitment to innovation and luxury, Altree’s projects are designed to stand the test of time, offering unparalleled value, and shaping the future of urban living. For more information, visit altreedevelopments.com.