Foreign tourists are coming to China. Why aren’t they shopping?

Smartphones are quickly erasing the information gap that once came with traveling in an unfamiliar environment, while travelers are becoming more cautious about spending.
A veteran travel industry professional said that young travelers from Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore visiting Beijing no longer need much help arranging their trips. They book their own flights and hotels, and many ethnic Chinese visitors speak the language. What they want is an affordable day tour covering major attractions such as the Great Wall, the Forbidden City and the National Museum of China.
He stressed that products featuring traditional shopping stops attract virtually no interest, no matter how cheap they are.
Yet there is another side to the story. While shopping tours for inbound groups are losing their appeal, the long-awaited influx of foreign tourists is finally happening.
This summer, Europe endured a prolonged spell of extreme heat. From mid-June to mid-August alone, around 80 million Europeans experienced temperatures above 40°C. Some travelers changed their holiday plans at short notice, with China emerging as an alternative destination for escaping the heat.
Data released by Trip.com in late July showed that European countries accounted for 30% of the major source markets for inbound tourists to China during the summer holiday season. Bookings from Europe surged 275% year on year, while growth across key western European markets, including the UK, France and Germany, approached 150%.
HopeGoo, a platform under Tongcheng Travel, also reported that since July, flight bookings from European cities such as London and Madrid to China had each increased by more than 20% month on month.
However, the shopping business generated by this influx of tourists looks quite different from what many travel agencies had hoped for.
In the first half of this year, Shanghai Customs processed nearly three times as many departure tax refund applications as a year earlier, while the value of tax-refunded goods rose just 58%. The increase in the application numbers far outpaced growth in the value of purchases.
Before the pandemic, shopping stops on traditional inbound group tours were often packaged as sightseeing experiences. Tour guides would first take visitors to watch jade carving demonstrations and listen to explanations of the materials and cultural significance. Visitors would then be led into the sales area, where they had to remain until the designated departure time.
But the landscape has changed. Travelers can check reviews before departure, contact local service providers by email or social media, and use ChatGPT or Gemini to get a rough idea of product prices. The information gap once created by an unfamiliar environment is quickly erased by smartphones.
More importantly, foreign visitors are increasingly wary of the time costs associated with shopping. Browsing requires effort, bargaining can be a hassle, and turning down sales pitches is not always easy. Given the long journey to China, spending two or three hours buying souvenirs of uncertain provenance is becoming harder to justify.
The second consideration is travelers’ budgets. With the cost of living remaining high and economic uncertainty weighing on household finances, tourists may be more selective about how they spend their money abroad. For visitors making a long-haul trip to China, shopping is competing with accommodation, dining, and destination experiences for a share of their travel budget. Purchases that offer little perceived value may be among the first expenses to go.

Passenger Traffic Between Mexico and the Dominican Republic Grew 423% Since Arajet Began Operating

Four years after launching operations in Mexico, Arajet continues to strengthen its presence in this important market, achieving historic performance to date. This is reflected in the growth of total air passenger traffic between the two countries, which, according to data from the Dominican Republic’s Civil Aviation Board (JAC), is projected to exceed 398,000 passengers by the end of 2026.
This significant increase in passenger traffic represents 423% growth compared to the 76,049 passengers transported in 2022, the year the Dominican flag carrier began operations in Mexico.
Air connectivity has also expanded since the launch of Arajet’s first route between Santo Domingo and Mexico City through Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA) in September 2022. The airline has since added routes connecting Cancún and Punta Cana, as well as Mexico City and Punta Cana.
This expansion of routes and frequencies has not only facilitated travel between the two countries but has also enabled Mexican travelers to use the Dominican Republic as a connecting point, reinforcing Arajet’s vision of positioning the country as the new hub of the continent.
“Mexico has been a strategic market for Arajet since the beginning of our operations. Over these four years, we have seen how greater connectivity can generate new demand and make it easier for more Mexican travelers to discover the Dominican Republic, while also using our network to continue to other destinations across the Americas. The market’s evolution confirms the potential for continued growth,” said Manuel Luna, Chief Communication Officer & External Affairs at Arajet.
Arajet highlighted that since beginning operations in Mexico in 2022, the airline has transported more than 580,000 point-to-point passengers between Mexico and the Dominican Republic, excluding connecting passengers, consolidating an operation that has supported growing demand between both markets.
“Arajet’s growth also reflects the growth of the markets in which we operate. In Mexico, we have seen how increased connectivity can stimulate demand and create new travel opportunities. Our goal is to continue expanding our presence and make the Dominican Republic accessible to more travelers, while providing connections to other destinations throughout our network,” Luna added.
By the end of 2026, Arajet expects to transport more than 240,000 passengers, including connections, in the Mexican market, operating 18 weekly frequencies across its NLU and CUN routes. This represents 17% growth compared to 2025. Looking ahead to 2027, the airline plans to add three new weekly frequencies and increase capacity by 17%, while Mexican travelers currently have access to 30 destinations through connections across Arajet’s network.
“We began flying to Mexico four years ago with the vision of offering a new connectivity alternative, and today we see a much more dynamic market. Our next phase will focus on sustainable growth, increasing capacity, and offering passengers traveling to and from Mexico City and Cancún more options to reach the Dominican Republic and connect from there to other destinations. Mexico will remain an important part of our expansion,” Luna concluded.

MATINABAD DESERT CAMP

Eco-tourism has recently been a concept that is highly fashionable among professionals in both the field of tourism and environmental studies. A group of scholarly experts in natural sciences and tourism founded an eco-tourist resort called Matinabad Desert Camp in 2008 in order to promote viable and accountable tourism in Iran. Surprisingly, this eco-friendly environment is also an organic farm. The motivation behind its existence has been to sustain, encourage, and support sustainable tourism, whose major concerns range from maintenance and culture to commerce and community. Close to the sandy hills and the dry grassland, the eco camp is situated with up-to-date facilities. This camp is close to one of the top tourist spots in Iran, which is Kashan city. Those who visit Matinabad Desert Camp can enjoy walking under the moonlit sky of the desert that is covered with shiny stars. They can also have the pleasing adventure of camel riding or biking through the sand waves.

Matinabad Eco Camp offers a memorable stay for tourists in its traditional-style accommodation with rooms that look like caravanserai belonging to the past of Iran. Although the architecture is antique in style, the rooms are highly modern, with facilities like a TV, refrigerator, air conditioner, and Western-style bathrooms. In addition to the beds, if visitors would like to have extra mattresses, they could get soft and delicate ones. The brick construction of the caravanserai entrance would take the tourists back to the ancient civilization of Iran with the cozy desert homes. Ideally, there are special rooms with elegant decorations and extra facilities called kingly rooms or Shah Neshin.

Unbelievably, this room offers a panoramic perspective of the lovely farm and the camp. Still more to offer in this camp is another traditional-style room in the model of Safavid architecture. This room is called the earrings room, or “Gooshvareh” which is on both sides of the kingly room. It actually aims to provide service to the guests of those who stay at Shah Neshin so that they can enjoy being together. On the grand floor of the camp, there are standard rooms for the guests that are called “Corner rooms,” all equipped with necessary facilities and extra sponge mattresses if needed. Eight other small rooms look like the rooms of past farmers who wanted to protect their farm or hunt. They are built with brick and mud, with a dome-like ceiling that makes the room cold enough in summertime and warm enough during the winter. They are called “Hut Room,” which means “Koomeh” in Persian.

They are often highly traditional in style and do not have any beds. Other types of hut rooms assimilate modern facilities and thus offer beds as well. As the camp is essentially natural, it appropriately offers nomad tents in two sizes, big and small. These tents do have enough facilities like electricity, air conditioning, and traditional heaters called Korsi. In order to offer perfect privacy for the guests, the tents are at an acceptable distance from one another. “Sepanj” is another style of room at Matinabad Eco Camp that mixes traditional and modern fashion in order to offer a comfortable rest. The architectural materials are traditional, made of straw and wood.

For entertainment, Matinabad Eco Camp offers 18 calm camels with lovely names, Goli, Grey, Snowy, and so on. Because of the camels’ humps, it offers a high-seat ride that would give a special feeling of looking straight at the stars above. Exploring the sand waves is possible through specific carriages called “ Delijaan”. They can host 15 people and create a fun experience for them.

Attractive hill sites of Karshahi Castle, Abuzeydabad, and Salt Lake can be visited through safari plans. Offering a telescope for stargazing is another adventurous entertainment that is possible in Matinabad desert camp. The local masters who are knowledgeable in star positioning and related information can give the tourists enough guidance in this regard. Campfire spots, gaming rooms, children’s playground, sand volleyball, archery, and walking trails are recreation services all available in Matinabad eco camp.

Nature and pleasure are two major concepts of Matinabad eco camp. As a result, the local culture of Kashan and the general spirit of Iranian civilization are reflected in the restaurant of this eco-friendly spot. The organic dishes, mainly provided by the purely natural products of the farm, are the major gift of the camp’s restaurant. Rural, local women serve traditional drinks like Persian yogurt drink, Persian side herbs, and unbelievably enticing local bread. Close to the entertainment area, a traditional teahouse and a cafe are located that serve a variety of Persian drinks, including black tea and other local herb juices, together with traditional, classic sweets. There are lovely stores in the area that sell both local and national artistic handicrafts like beautiful glassware and pottery.  It is a great opportunity for visitors to buy organic products from these shops, like herbal medicine, pickles, and specific local herbs.

Last but not least is the organic farm, which is the beating heart of Matinabad eco camp, where modern technology, together with the appropriate climate conditions, has created an ideal organic cultivation spot that grows chemical-free plants irrigated by drip irrigation methods. In addition to the internal use of its products, the surplus is sold to visitors or the city market. Raising sheep, camels, horses, goats, and ostriches is another special offer of the camp through a mixed mode of production: modern and traditional.

Overall, the multidimensional quest to the wonderland of nature with a tinge of modernity, comfort, and pleasure is only possible in one spot where knowledge, technology, tradition, history, health, entertainment, and industry have been encapsulated in Matinabad Eco Camp. Enjoy this unique experience.

 

From Carnival to the World Cup: Brazil arrives in London for WTM LONDON 2026

Brazil arrives at WTM London 2026 to demonstrate that travelling through the country goes far beyond visiting destinations; it is about immersing oneself in stories, sharing in celebrations, and discovering a place where culture is lived out in every encounter. At a time of growing British interest in the country, Brazil is showcasing a distinctive approach to tourism – one that weaves together the energy of Carnival, a passion for football, and the authenticity of local experiences, inviting visitors to see Brazil through a fresh lens. From November 3rd to 5th 2026, two international campaigns will translate this “Brazilian spirit” into experiences and narratives designed to bring the British public closer to Brazil’s rich diversity.
From the stands of the Sambadrome to the city streets, the celebration takes on various rhythms in the Carnival campaign, developed in partnership with “Beautiful Destinations”. Under the theme “Come Live the Energy of the World’s Greatest Carnival”, Rio de Janeiro, Salvador, Recife, and Olinda will be showcased through the voices of the very communities that bring the festivities to life each year. Their stories, roots, and traditions reveal the many ways to experience this iconic expression of Brazil’s cultural diversity.
Meanwhile, the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup – hosted by Brazil for the first time – serves as a gateway to a journey that extends well beyond the stadiums. This initiative highlights the host cities – Belo Horizonte, Brasília, Fortaleza, Porto Alegre, Recife, Rio de Janeiro, Salvador, and São Paulo – through experiences that connect visitors directly with local life.
These campaigns arrive at a moment when Brazil is taking centre stage in the growth of international tourism. Brazil is the primary destination in South America for travellers from the United Kingdom. Between January and August 2026, the country recorded an 11.37% increase in arrivals of British tourists.
“The United Kingdom is among the world’s top five source markets for tourists and is strategic for Brazilian tourism. The interest British travellers have in culture, sun and beach, nature, and adventure finds authentic experiences in Brazil – enriched by contact with local communities. We will be at WTM to showcase the ‘Brazilian spirit’ that makes the country a unique destination, blending culture, diversity, creativity, and hospitality. This is one of Brazil’s greatest strengths in the international market”, says Bruno Reis, president of Embratur/Visit Brasil.
This diversity will also be on display at the Brazil stand, which will span 414 square metres and feature 56 co-exhibitors – including destinations such as the Amazon, Bahia, Bonito, Ceará, the Iguaçu Falls, Manaus, Mato Grosso, Rio de Janeiro, Mato Grosso do Sul, Salvador, São Paulo, and Rio Grande do Norte. Alongside them, inbound tour operators, accommodation providers, various organisations, and airlines will welcome industry professionals to present itineraries, exchange insights, and secure new business deals.
Embratur will also bring ecotourism, nature-based tourism, and Afro-tourism experiences to WTM through “Feel Brasil” – a platform that highlights activities connected to nature, culture, and local communities. The initiative showcases Brazilian destinations and experiences that align with the growing demand for responsible tourism and authentic encounters, perfectly matching the profile of the British traveller.
Gastronomy will also be featured at the Brazilian stand, with cooking demonstrations and caipirinha masterclasses designed to introduce industry professionals to the country’s flavours, ingredients, and traditions. More than just tastings, these experiences highlight gastronomy as an essential part of discovering a destination – offering a way to introduce the British public to the creativity, hospitality, and distinct Brazilian spirit that make Brazil a unique place to visit.
EVENT DETAILS
WTM London 2026
Date: November 3–5
Location: ExCeL London, 1 Western Gateway, Royal Victoria Dock, London Docklands, E16 1XL, United Kingdom

Thailand plans free tours for passengers on long layovers

Thailand is preparing to launch free short tours for international transit passengers with long layovers, with a pilot planned at four major airports from early 2027.
The stopover tours would allow eligible travellers with around six to eight hours between flights to leave the airport for brief cultural, food or wellness experiences before returning for their onward journey. The pilot is planned for Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Phuket and Krabi airports.
Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn said the project follows an agreement between six organisations aimed at linking Thailand’s aviation network more closely with tourism businesses and local services.
The partners are the Department of Airports, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Thai Airways International, Airlines Association of Thailand, Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel and Kasetsart University’s Faculty of Engineering.
The cooperation agreement will run for three years, with the first services targeted for early 2027.
The scheme, Amazing Thailand Transfer Passenger Privilege, will be coordinated by TAT. Organisers will develop short itineraries based on passengers’ available transit time, with safety, convenience and sufficient time to return for onward flights taken into account.
Three formats are initially planned: City Express, Food Express and Wellness Express. Proposed experiences include visits to cultural attractions, Thai food and street food trips, spas and traditional Thai massage.
Suvarnabhumi handles around 1.3 million transfer and transit passengers a year, according to the Tourism and Sports Ministry. Officials estimate around 10% have layovers long enough to potentially join the programme.
TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool said the agency hopes to attract about 10% of that target group during the initial stage. The first packages are expected to be offered free, using TAT’s existing budget.
Phiphat said the project is intended to turn airport waiting time into tourism spending while introducing transit passengers to Thailand. Officials also want spending to reach restaurants, shops, attractions and other businesses near participating airports.
The initiative forms part of the government’s wider effort to strengthen Thailand as a regional aviation and passenger-transfer hub, while improving connections between airports, city centres and tourist attractions.
Passengers joining the Thailand stopover tours would have to formally enter Thailand rather than remain in the international transit area. Visa, visa-exemption and Thailand Digital Arrival Card requirements would therefore depend on each traveller’s nationality and circumstances.
The exact booking process, final routes and eligibility rules have not yet been announced. The participating organisations are now working on the programme ahead of the targeted early-2027 launch.

TOKYU HOTELS Releases a Whisky Aged on the Subtropical Island of Yakushima

From 1st November 2026, TOKYU HOTELS original Japanese whisky Blended Malt Yakushima Ageing Special Edition GOTOH will be available at 15 TOKYU HOTELS properties. This special bottling from Hombo Shuzo Mars Distillery in Kagoshima was aged on Yakushima, a UNESCO World Heritage island renowned for its spectacular ancient forest and unique ecosystem.
Blended Malt Yakushima Ageing Special Edition GOTOH is the third whisky in a collaboration between TOKYU HOTELS & RESORTS CO., LTD (THR) and Kagoshima-based Hombo Shuzo Mars Distillery. It follows 2024’s Single Malt KOMAGATAKE Special Edition GOTOH and 2025’s Single Malt TSUNUKI Special Edition GOTOH. From 1 November 2026, guests at 15 THR properties across Japan can enjoy the whisky.
Blended Malt Yakushima Ageing is a blend of two single malts from Hombo Shuzo’s Komagatake distillery and one from its Tsunuki distillery. The blended whisky was aged in Hombo Shuzo’s cellar on the subtropical Japanese island of Yakushima in Kagoshima Prefecture.
Yakushima is known for its spectacular primeval forest, mountainous terrain and over 1900 different species of vegetation. The island is warm and rainy year-round, creating a rich and unique ecosystem, and in 1993 the island was designated a UNESCO site of natural world heritage.
Whilst the first and second releases in the Special Edition GOTOH range were single malts, this third is a blended malt. However, it is more than just a blend of base whiskies and represents a new challenge for Hombo Shuzo. The distillery has selected three distinctively individual and compelling cask-strength malt whiskies, then combined them to produce a characterful blended whisky that is far more than the sum of its parts.
There are many Scottish and Irish “island-aged” whiskies, but this is one of the first from Japan. Hombo Shuzo describes the special personality of Blended Malt Yakushima Ageing Special Edition GOTOH as “tropical and salty”, evoking hints of tropical fruits and the mineral-rich, umami character of seafood.
First impressions are the sweet, lively aroma of milk chocolate and caramel, complemented by the floral notes of Ceylon tea. On tasting, the robust depth of the Tsunuki 2020 single malt comes into play, followed by umami and minerality from the whisky’s aging on Yakushima Island, with a hint of dashi fish stock. The finish is soft and gentle, boasting a roundness that stems from the inclusion of Komagatake 2021, a single malt fermented in wooden washbacks. The special Yakushima ageing process and interplay of three highly distinctive single malts create a complex, harmonious, and highly unique flavour profile.
A focus on fine food and drink
TOKYU HOTELS & RESORTS CO., LTD is a Japanese operator of hotels, restaurants, and membership-based resorts, with a network of 67 hotels in Japan and abroad. Ever since its establishment in 1960 in Tokyo’s Ginza district, it has focused on fine food and drink using the best local ingredients. In addition to preserving traditional and regional cuisine, THR has developed new signature dishes, worked to accommodate dietary needs such as allergies and vegan preferences, and, for over 20 years, staged an internal cooking contest for chefs to continuously elevate culinary skills and cuisine across its hotels.
This whisky project is rooted in the TOKYU HOTELS & RESORTS CO., LTD company Purpose, which is “creating moments with people and the community, fulfilling hearts and minds.” By connecting with guests at diverse touchpoints to introduce whiskies and create memorable moments, THR aims to “create heartwarming moments together with its guests”.

Tourism and hospitality elite honoured at World Travel Awards 2026 in the Maldives

The Maldives honoured the best travel organisations in Asia, Oceania and the Indian Ocean at a VIP gala ceremony.

The ceremony, with the Maldives as Official Host Destination, Bank of Maldives as Platinum Sponsor, and CROSSROADS Maldives as Host Partner, marked the third leg of WTA’s Grand Tour 2026, a global search for the finest travel and tourism organisations.

Winners included Vietnam, which took the title for ‘Asia’s Leading Destination’, with the Philippines voted ‘Asia’s Leading Beach Destination’ and ‘Asia’s Leading Tourist Board’. New Zealand claimed the title for ‘Oceania’s Leading Destination’, with Sydney hailed as ‘Oceania’s Leading City Destination’.

The Maldives confirmed its reputation as a tourism powerhouse in the region by securing five titles, including ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Destination’. Seychelles also enjoyed a strong performance, collecting ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Beach Destination’.

The hospitality sector shone brightly, with winners from across the region recognised for their exceptional achievements, from luxury city hotels to island resorts. The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort collected double honours, winning ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Honeymoon Resort’ and ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Luxury Island Resort’. Omana, New Zealand, took ‘Oceania’s Leading Boutique Hotel’.

In the newcomer categories, InterContinental Sapporo won ‘Asia’s Leading New Hotel’, and InterContinental Brisbane was named ‘Oceania’s Leading New Hotel ’.Here, Baa Atoll, Maldives, claimed ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading New Resort’.

In the aviation sector, Hong Kong International Airport won ‘Asia’s Leading Airport’ for its world-class facilities, innovation and traveller experience. Vietnam Airlines collected ‘Asia’s Leading Airline – Customer Experience’ and ‘Asia’s Leading Airline – Premium Economy Class’. Velana International Airport, Maldives, claimed ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Airport’. Maldivian was named ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Airline Brand’, while Trans Maldivian Airways took to the podium to collect ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Seaplane Operator’.

Other winners included Vietravel (‘Asia’s Leading Tour Operator’); Hard Rock Hotel Maldives (‘Maldives’ Leading All-Inclusive Resort’); SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton (‘Maldives’ Leading Family Resort’); and SO/ Maldives (‘Maldives’ Leading Lifestyle Resort’)

Qavam House

 

Shiraz, Iran’s cultural capital, hosts a variety of traditional houses that reflect family structures, relationships, social manners, and characteristics of old Persian lifestyles. Qavam House ideally defines what the spirit of long-established Persian houses looks like and how they differ from the modern way of living. The first thing to note about such houses is privacy, which respects individuals’ zones, even when quite separate from family members. While social relations were warmer than today, personal spaces still played a pivotal role in Old Persian houses. Art and culture in Shiraz are actually understandable, friendly, and at the same time beautiful and charming. While it lacks the complexity of other Persian schools’ styles, it does offer a standard which I may refer to as “ Shirazism,” reflecting coziness, hospitality, perfection, and easygoingness. What the present article tries to reflect about Qavam House is the symbolic description of this specific school of art.

 

During the Qajar period, the governor of Fars, Qavam Al- Saltaneh, built a spectacular house in the posh place of Lotf- Ali Khan e Zand in 1878. The area was important as it was close to other remarkable places like the Darb Sheikh neighborhood on the farthest east side of Shiraz at that time. When he was appointed the governor of Fars province, he decided to build a house and live in the lovely city of Shiraz. The name of this specific residential house was “Bala-Kaft,” later called Qavam House or “Naranjestan-e Qavam”. Back to the word root, this means a garden that is full of sour orange trees. Qavam House, having a big yard full of sour orange trees, fits this suggestive name. Qavam House is thus highly symbolic. Not only does it signify the delicate fragrance of Shiraz orange blossoms, but also every single architectural art style is present and manifest in its external and internal structure. Immediately after entering the house, the aromatic smell of the orange trees intoxicates the visitors. A few steps following the entrance, you face a gallery of Shirazism including mosaics and stalactites, mirror work, brickwork, plaster stuccos, and fine paintings. This splendid house complex includes several sections connected to each other.

 

They consist of the inner courtyard, which is called “ Zinat Al Moluk private house, Gachineh bath house, Husseiniah Qavam, Maktabkhaneh Qavam (school), Divan khaneh or the courthouse, Qavam private bath house, stable, and Zanjir khaneh Qavam ( nothing left now from this section). The crown section of this house is a mirror portico that overlooks the garden filled with flowers, palm trees, and animating fountains. The artistic taste applied in this spectacular house is reflective of the prestige and elegance of the family indeed. The Qavam family was one of the high-ranking families during the Qajar dynasty who were powerful and influential in the court. They controlled Fars province and the surrounding areas during that era for a long time.

They were the grandchildren of Haj Ibrahim Khan Kalantar e Shirazi, who was a noble political leader of both Zand and Qajar kings. Haj Ibrahim Khan Kalantar e Shirazi and his forefathers were originally the chiefs of the ” Bala Kaft ” district of Shiraz, who became the confidants of Zand and Qajar kings following their faithful services to them. Most of the interesting places were constructed, designed, or even rebuilt by the members of this family in Shiraz. Among the amazing places we can name are: Afif Aad Garden, Eram Garden, Delgosha Garden, Kalantar Garden, BiglarBeigi Garden, Naranjestan Garden, Zinat Al-Moluk inner courtyard of Qavam Garden, Husseinieh Gavam.

Historically speaking, Haj Ibrahim e Kalantar was the governor of Karim Khan e Zand, betrayed Lotf-Ali Khan e Zand, and joined Aqa Mohhamd Khan e Qajar. As a reward, the Qajar king appointed him as the governor of Fars province. The next Qajar king, Fathali Shah, challenged him and ordered his execution. His only son, Ali Akbar Khan, who was saved because of his tuberculosis, reproached Fathali Shah for killing his family members, and the guilty-conscious Qajar king paid him back by offering him a rank as Qavam Al- Moluk and appointing him the governor of Fars. Following his death, his son started to build Qavam House. It had several parts, including the courtyard, which functioned for official and legal affairs. It was also very appropriate for reception ceremonies.

 

The design of this beautiful garden is quite symmetrical, as the usual style of Qajar architectural models and the artistic style of the mansion part are focally that of Zand’s pattern.  The forehead of the main entrance is a red marble stone with inscriptions dealing with the date of construction and the man who built it. There are different mansions on the northern, eastern, and southern sides of the garden. The main mansion, Makhtab khaneh (school), and Gachineh Bath house are the major buildings. The first one consists of twenty connected rooms, including the basement for storing goods, food, and an armory. The porch represents the iconic double-pillar style, which was the dominant trend during the Zand era. The inner decorations, including the engravings, mirror-works, plasters, and paintings, however, represent Qajar style. The rooms that are located on the upper level were meant for the guests, including the colorful glass shades and marble fireplaces with paintings of birds and flowers.

 

The northern side of the garden is actually the Qavam School area, where the building also includes the interior lobby and the kitchen. Gachineh Bathhouse, one of the five traditional bathhouses of Shiraz, was connected to the inner courtyard or Naranjestan by a passageway. The basement was also considered the summer residential hall for the family, with stone reticulated windows. The area between the major mansion and the one in the south is a lovely garden surrounded by fences. The central pool nicely reflects the building and the sour orange trees. The old palm trees also add to the specific culture of Fars’ beauty in this old-fashioned house. There are other buildings here as well, like the servant rooms and a building in the southern part that has alluring wooden pillars and a mirrored ceiling, very representative of Shirazi architectural style.

 

Just join us and see how the Qavam family enjoyed their affluent life in their lofty mansions.

 

Blue Lagoon Island Brings Community Together for 41st International Coastal Cleanup

Blue Lagoon Island’s Project B.E.A.C.H. brought more than 500 volunteers together at Yamacraw Beach on Saturday, Sept. 19, for the 41st annual International Coastal Cleanup, removing marine debris while raising awareness about the importance of protecting The Bahamas’ coastal environment.
Held from 8 to 10 a.m., the cleanup attracted students, youth organizations, corporate partners, and community volunteers who worked along the shoreline to collect and categorize litter. The effort is part of the International Coastal Cleanup, a global initiative led by Ocean Conservancy that engages communities in removing marine debris and documenting the types and quantities of waste found along coastlines and waterways.
This year, volunteers collected more than 1,200 pounds of debris, including nearly 5,000 items such as glass and plastic bottles, metal cans, plastic bags, food wrappers, and other waste. The data collected will support Ocean Conservancy’s annual research, helping researchers, policymakers, and environmental organizations better understand the sources and scope of marine pollution.
“Every piece of debris removed from a beach represents a small but meaningful step toward healthier coastlines,” said Te-Shalla Clarke, education and sustainability officer at Blue Lagoon Island. “International Coastal Cleanup is an opportunity to take action while helping participants understand how everyday choices can affect our marine environment. We are grateful to everyone who gave their time this year and to the partners who continue to support these efforts.”
The Yamacraw Beach cleanup brought together a broad cross-section of the New Providence community, including the Governor General’s Youth Award (GGYA), Boys’ Brigade, St. Andrew’s International School Eco Club, Eco-Schools Bahamas, Temple Christian School Eco Club, Aquinas College, Doris Johnson Senior High School, Rotary International, Team Z from Zane Lightbourne Team, Yamacraw Urban Renewal and Girl Guides, along with corporate sponsors and community partners.
Participating organizations included Bahamas Waste, Bahamas Wholesale Agencies (BWA), Coca-Cola Circular Seas, ALIV, Fun Foods Wholesale Ltd., Marco’s Pizza, Rubis Bahamas, Sandals Foundation, Sandy Toes, Suntee, J.S. Johnson Insurance Agents & Brokers and Garnier, among others.
Shelton Burrows, chairman of the 12-member Yamacraw Urban Renewal Advisory Board, expressed gratitude on behalf of the board and residents for the cleanup effort.
“We deeply appreciate Blue Lagoon Island and its business partners for choosing Yamacraw Beach for this cleanup effort,” he said. “In partnership with ENV Launch, we look forward to building on this initiative with ongoing maintenance at Stokes Cabana. It is especially inspiring to see our young people volunteering, engaging in positive activities, nation-building and fostering civic pride across The Bahamas.”
Among the young volunteers was Kevin Bowe, a 12th-grade student and Environmental Club member at Aquinas College, who said the cleanup reinforced the need for greater environmental responsibility.
“When I saw the amount of garbage on and along the beach, I thought we really need to do a better job when it comes to preserving our environment,” Bowe said. “We need to be more aware of how we interact with the environment around us and respect it by cleaning up after ourselves. That would be very good for all of us, especially in the future.”
For Blue Lagoon Island, the International Coastal Cleanup is part of a broader commitment to sustainability, environmental education, and conservation. Through Project B.E.A.C.H. (Bahamas Education of Animals and Conservation of Habitat), the island supports initiatives designed to deepen understanding of The Bahamas’ marine ecosystems and inspire more responsible choices both on land and in the water.
“Environmental conservation is a key area of work for the Sandals Foundation, and key amongst that is building education and stewardship. International Coastal Cleanup stands as the largest global voluntary movement. It builds awareness of environmental consciousness and provides a platform for people to take action,” said Snovakia Watson, public relations manager at Sandals Royal Bahamian.
Watson added: “This year, we are pleased to partner with Blue Lagoon Island Bahamas and its dedicated volunteers as we come together to protect our delicate marine ecosystem. Together, we can make a difference, one coastline at a time.”
The cleanup reinforces a simple message: Keeping beaches clean is a shared responsibility. By combining hands-on action with the collection of valuable marine debris data, the initiative addresses the immediate problem of litter while contributing to the broader global effort to protect oceans and coastal communities.
Blue Lagoon Island’s Project B.E.A.C.H. organizes cleanups and educational initiatives throughout the year to deepen appreciation for The Bahamas’ marine ecosystems. The International Coastal Cleanup is part of a global effort to remove trash from beaches and waterways, identify pollution sources, and inspire behavior changes that protect the environment.

The Tabatabaei Historical House

A Gem of Persian Residential Architecture

 

Kashan, a historic city on the edge of the central Iranian desert, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and exquisite architecture. Among the city’s many architectural treasures, the Tabatabaei Historical House stands out as a symbol of elegance, craftsmanship, and the refined lifestyle of 19th-century Persian aristocracy. Built during the Qajar dynasty (1789–1925), the house embodies the aesthetic and cultural values of its time, as well as the innovative architectural solutions developed to combat the harsh desert climate. Here, we will explore the history, architectural features, cultural significance, and ongoing preservation efforts of the Tabatabaei House. Through its story, we will gain a deeper understanding of Persian residential architecture and the lifestyle of Kashan’s elite during the 19th century.

Historical Background

 

Seyed Jafar Tabatabaei, a wealthy carpet merchant and member of the prominent Tabatabaei family, commissioned the Tabatabaei House, constructed around 1880. The house was built as a symbol of the family’s affluence and social standing in Kashan, and it served as both a private residence and a space for receiving important guests and conducting business. Seyed Jafar Tabatabaei chose the master architect Ustad Ali Maryam, one of the most renowned architects of the Qajar era, to design the house. Ustad Ali Maryam was renowned for his contributions to several notable historical buildings in Kashan, including the Borujerdi House, which was constructed shortly after the Tabatabaei House. His mastery of Persian architectural elements, combined with his ability to adapt to the local climate, made the Tabatabaei House one of the most impressive residences in the region. The house is in the heart of Kashan’s historic district, surrounded by other grand residences and important cultural sites. It reflects not only the wealth and status of the Tabatabaei family but also the broader social and cultural trends of the Qajar period, when Persian elites sought to express their power and sophistication through grand architectural projects.

The Architecture of the Tabatabaei House

 

The Tabatabaei House is an extraordinary example of Persian residential architecture, combining traditional design elements with innovative features tailored to the desert climate. The house spans over 4,700 square meters and includes three main sections: the interior or private area (Andaruni), the public or guest area (Biruni), and the servant quarters. Each of these sections is carefully designed to serve specific functions while maintaining the overall harmony and beauty of the structure.

The Central Courtyards

 

One of the most defining features of the Tabatabaei House is its three central courtyards, which are integral to the aesthetic and practical aspects of the design. These courtyards serve as the heart of the house, providing natural light and ventilation to the surrounding rooms. The courtyards are beautifully landscaped, featuring pools (Howz), gardens, and walkways that create a serene and refreshing environment in the middle of the desert. The largest courtyard, located in the public area of the house, is framed by an elegant veranda (Iwan-like spaces) on all sides.

This courtyard is designed to impress guests, with its central pool and meticulously maintained gardens, which include trees and flowers that add to the overall beauty of the space. The pool also plays a practical role, as the water helps cool the air in the courtyard, providing relief from the intense heat of Kashan’s summers. The two smaller courtyards, located in the private and servant areas, are more intimate in design but still maintain the same level of architectural detail. These courtyards provide private outdoor spaces for the family and servants to enjoy, and they are connected to the surrounding rooms through large windows and doors that create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living.

Windcatchers (Badgirs)

 

Like many traditional houses in Kashan, the Tabatabaei House has windcatchers (Badgirs), which are tall, chimney-like structures designed to capture and direct cool breezes into the house. These windcatchers are a remarkable example of Persian architectural ingenuity, as they provide natural ventilation in a region where temperatures can soar during the summer months. The Windcatchers of the Tabatabaei House serve a dual purpose, combining functionality with aesthetic beauty. Adorned with intricate brickwork, they add to the building’s visual charm while channeling cool air into the interior spaces. This ingenious design provides natural ventilation, maintaining a comfortable indoor climate without relying on modern air conditioning.

 

 

Symmetry and Geometric Design

 

The architectural design of the Tabatabaei House exemplifies Persian craftsmanship through its flawless symmetry and precise geometry. Every element of the house, from the courtyards to the Iwans and living spaces, is meticulously arranged to achieve a harmonious balance, reflecting the cultural emphasis on order and tranquility in traditional Persian architecture. This sense of symmetry extends to the house’s decorative elements, such as the intricate stucco work, meticulously arranged tile patterns, and vibrant stained-glass windows, all of which contribute to its harmonious and visually captivating design. The use of geometric designs in Persian architecture is not merely decorative. It is imbued with symbolic meaning, representing the order and beauty of the universe as seen through the lens of Islamic art.

Stucco Work and Stained Glass

 

The interior and exterior walls of the Tabatabaei House are adorned with intricate stucco work (Muqarnas), which showcases the skill of the craftsmen who worked on the project. The stucco designs include floral motifs, arabesques, and geometric patterns, all common features of Persian decorative arts. These designs are not only beautiful but also serve to enhance the visual impact of the space, creating a sense of elegance and refinement. One of the house’s most striking features is its use of stained glass (Orsi) windows, particularly prominent in the main rooms that overlook the central courtyard. These windows, with their colorful geometric patterns, allow light to filter into the rooms in a way that creates a kaleidoscope of colors, adding to the overall atmosphere of luxury and beauty. The stained glass also provides privacy by obscuring the view into the rooms from the outside while still allowing light to enter.

Underground Spaces (Sardabs)

 

Another unique feature of the Tabatabaei House is its extensive underground spaces (Sardabs), used as living areas during the hottest months of the year. These subterranean rooms are naturally cooler than the upper levels of the house, as the thick earth and walls help to insulate against the heat. The Sardabs connected to the rest of the building through stairways and passageways, allowing the family to move between the different levels easily. In addition to serving as living quarters, the Sardabs were also used for storage, particularly for food and water, which needed to be kept cool in the desert climate. This ingenious use of underground spaces demonstrates the advanced understanding of environmental design that Persian architects had developed over the centuries.

The Cultural Significance of the Tabatabaei House

 

The Tabatabaei House is not just an architectural masterpiece. It is also a cultural symbol that reflects the lifestyle, values, and social structure of Kashan’s elite during the Qajar period. The house was designed to accommodate the needs of a wealthy family, with separate areas for private family life, entertaining guests, and housing servants. The division of the house into distinct sections for private and public use is a reflection of the importance of privacy and hospitality in Persian culture. The private areas of the house, including the inner courtyard and family rooms, were reserved for the exclusive use of the family, while the public places, such as the main courtyard and reception rooms, were designed to impress and accommodate guests. The house also reflects the social hierarchy of the time, with separate quarters for the servants and spaces for the family to conduct business and host important guests. This hierarchical structure is evident in the house’s layout, with the public areas being more ornate and lavishly decorated. The private and servant areas are simpler but still elegant.

Preservation and Restoration Efforts

 

In recent years, significant efforts have been made to restore and preserve the Tabatabaei House, ensuring that future generations can continue to appreciate its architectural and cultural significance. The house had fallen into disrepair over the years. Thanks to the efforts of the Iranian government and cultural heritage organizations, it has been restored to its former glory. The restoration process focused on repairing the delicate stucco work, reviving the vibrant stained-glass windows, and strengthening the building’s structural framework. These efforts aimed to preserve not just the house’s physical form but also its historical authenticity, ensuring it continues to embody the essence of 19th-century Persian residential architecture. Today, the Tabatabaei House serves as a museum, welcoming visitors from across the globe who are drawn to its stunning architecture and the rich history of Kashan’s prominent families. It stands as a testament to the architectural and cultural achievements of the Qajar period. It continues to inspire admiration for the ingenuity and artistry of Persian builders.

Conclusion

 

The Tabatabaei Historical House exemplifies the brilliance of Persian residential architecture, seamlessly blending aesthetic appeal, practicality, and cultural importance. Its elaborate design, featuring courtyards, windcatchers, intricate stucco work, and vibrant stained glass, showcases the sophisticated architectural and environmental design expertise cultivated by Persian architects over the centuries. More than just a house, the Tabatabaei House offers a glimpse into the lives of Kashan’s wealthy families during the 19th century, showcasing their values, social structure, and way of life. Today, it remains one of Kashan’s most important cultural landmarks, a symbol of the city’s rich heritage, and a source of pride for Iranians and architectural enthusiasts. Through careful preservation efforts, the Tabatabaei House will continue to inspire future generations, offering a timeless example of the beauty and sophistication of Persian architecture.