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Digital Earth Session at 2025 WSTDF advances SDGs

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BEIJING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 November 2025 – The Thematic Session on Digital Earth Supporting Sustainable Development convened during the 2025 World Science and Technology Development Forum (WSTDF) in Beijing on Tuesday, bringing together 70 leading figures and representatives from research institutes and universities of 19 countries and relevant UN agencies and international organizations to tackle the problems along niche opportunities brought by emerging science and technology trends, with consensus on the Digital Earth Initiative for the Sustainable Development Goals.

Photo: Participants attend the Thematic Session on Digital Earth Supporting Sustainable Development at the China Hall of Science and Technology in Beijing on October 28, 2025.
Photo: Participants attend the Thematic Session on Digital Earth Supporting Sustainable Development at the China Hall of Science and Technology in Beijing on October 28, 2025.

Organized by the International Society for Digital Earth (ISDE) with support of the China Association for Science and Technology (CAST), the session, themed “Big Data and AI for Implementation of SDGs,” focused on expanding international collaboration and exploring durable mechanisms to better harness Digital Earth technologies for long-term impact on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In the opening remarks, Richard Simpson, President of ISDE, described Digital Earth as “a living, adaptive architecture for planetary sense-making and coordinated action,” and stressed a dedicated framework within this architecture focuses on SDG reporting, explicitly highlighting climate action (SDG 13).

The keynote section featured several speakers, including Guo Huadong, Academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Director General of the International Research Center of Big Data for Sustainable Development Goals (CBAS), and Honorary President of ISDE, who highlighted big data’s vital role in supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals. He discussed CBAS’s achievements in building open-data platforms, AI-driven monitoring tools, and case studies on food security, climate action, and ecosystem protection, stressing the need to connect scientific data with global governance in order to develop practical solutions that advance sustainable development.

Beyond these achievements, Guo specifically drew attention to the Global-Scale Sustainable Development Scientific Monitoring Report (2025), released just the previous day at the 2025 WSTDF opening ceremony. The report recapitulates a decade of technological breakthroughs that have overcome traditional data limitations and generated comparable monitoring results through big Earth data.

In line with these efforts, the Digital Sustainable Development Goals Programme (DSP)—initiated by CBAS and approved by UNESCO—has secured support from 63 institutions across 32 countries and regions, and will remain instrumental in shaping the post-2030 vision.

Hiromichi Fukui, Former Vice President of the Chubu University in Japan, presented how Digital Earth technology, particularly the Land Cover Breakthrough (LCB) Project, advances sustainability goals. The LCB Project uses AI and satellite data to improve land cover mapping, reducing costs and accelerating progress toward the global 30×30 conservation goal. He emphasized that “we need a world of collaboration” to achieve these objectives.

Other keynote speakers explored integrative frameworks for spatial data, remote sensing, and socioeconomic analysis to support informed decision-making and international cooperation.

Chaired by Li Songnian, Chair of the Academic Network of UN-GGIM, the panel discussion featured representatives from Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Pacific. Discussions examined innovative uses of Digital Earth technologies and principles for responsible geospatial stewardship to advance SDGs, and provided concrete evidence of how AI and big data are transforming SDGs through more robust data infrastructures. Panelists stressed that inclusivity and shared access to digital resources are essential to ensure “no one is left behind” in the world’s digital transformation.

The session culminated in the launch of the Digital Earth Initiative for the Sustainable Development Goals, a collaborative framework promoting shared data infrastructures, open science, and ethical applications of AI. Participants agreed that progress toward sustainability rests not only on advanced technology but on stronger international partnerships, an idea echoed throughout the WSTDF’s broader agenda of shared innovation and global cooperation.

The Thematic Session on Digital Earth Supporting Sustainable Development, one of ten parallel sessions at the 2025 WSTDF, is closely aligned with the forum’s overarching theme, “AI for Science and Development (AI4SD),” showcasing concrete digital solutions in the geospatial domain.

The WSTDF, a flagship sci-tech event launched by CAST in 2019, welcomed around 800 delegates from government, academia, education, and industry this year.

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Xinhua Silk Road: Conference exploring future paths of asset management held in E. China urban district

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BEIJING, Nov. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Global Asset Management Forum 2025 Shanghai Suhewan Conference was recently held in Jing’an District, Shanghai, focusing on exploring the future development paths of the asset management industry.

 

In a rapidly changing world, the event welcomed foundation of the Shanghai AI-FI lab dedicated to integration of AI and finance, and related technology innovation to find new paths to further bolster the sector.

Apple CEO Tim Cook and Bai Chongen, dean of the School of Economics and Management of Tsinghua University shared their foresight and insight on the concrete paths of integrating AI, digital technology and financial innovation.

Home to more than 800 financial institutions, Jing’an District of Shanghai remains a top choice for international asset management firms entering the Chinese market, thanks to its concentration of high-end resources, well-developed service economy, and strong innovation vitality.

Original link: https://en.imsilkroad.com/p/348075.html

  

Sheaffer Pens Love Letter to Fans with New Emily in Paris Collection

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Iconic Pen Brand Partners with Hit Series to Bring Parisian Elegance to Every Written Word

BANGALORE, India, Nov. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Sheaffer, the legendary American writing instruments brand synonymous with timeless innovation and craftsmanship, announced a collaboration with Paramount Consumer Products for Netflix’s beloved series, Emily in Paris, produced by Paramount Television Studios and creator Darren Star. Launching this holiday season, the limited-edition collection captures the romantic spirit of Paris and Emily Cooper’s ambitious charm through exquisitely designed writing instruments, notebooks, and leather accessories.

Iconic Pen Brand Partners with Hit Series to Bring Parisian Elegance to Every Written Word
Iconic Pen Brand Partners with Hit Series to Bring Parisian Elegance to Every Written Word

The Sheaffer x Emily in Paris collection invites fans to channel their inner Emily Cooper with beautifully crafted products that celebrate the art of thoughtful communication. From fountain pens perfect for penning postcards from Paris to journals ideal for capturing everyday adventures, each piece embodies the show’s sophisticated aesthetic and joie de vivre.

“Emily in Paris celebrates connection, creativity, and the power of words; values that have been at the heart of Sheaffer for over a century,” said Nikhil Ranjan, CEO – Sheaffer. “This collaboration allows us to merge our heritage of fine writing with the show’s modern, fashion-forward spirit. We are giving fans the tools to write their own Parisian love story, one elegant stroke at a time.”

The collection features writing instruments adorned with Parisian motifs, notebooks with illustrated details inspired by Emily’s adventures, and sophisticated leather accessories including key fob wallets and passport cases. The design palette mirrors the show’s bold energy with pops of pink, classic black accents, and elegant gold hardware, quintessentially Emily.

The Sheaffer x Emily in Paris collection will be available from mid-November at select retailers world-wide and online at Sheaffer.com.

ABOUT SHEAFFER

For over a century, Sheaffer has stood as a symbol of refined craftsmanship and timeless luxury. Celebrated by connoisseurs worldwide, each Sheaffer pen unites heritage artistry with modern sophistication, an emblem of confidence, creativity, and distinction. From the hands of visionaries to collectors’ showcases, Sheaffer transforms writing into an experience of prestige and purpose. In an age of fleeting digital impressions, Sheaffer endures as the mark of permanence, a global icon where innovation meets legacy, and every line becomes a lasting expression of elegance.

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End to US Government Shutdown in Sight as Stopgap Bill Advances to House

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Laotian Times
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US Senator Chris Murphy, Democrat of Connecticut, speaks with reporters as he arrives for Senate votes to reopen the government on day 41 of the government shutdown at the US Capitol in Washington, DC, November 10, 2025. The longest-ever US government shutdown appeared headed Monday to an eventual resolution, after several Democratic senators broke ranks to join Republicans in advancing a compromise deal -- sparking intra-party backlash. (Photo by SAUL LOEB / AFP)

By Imran Vittachi/AFP – The longest-ever US government shutdown moved forward 10 November toward an eventual resolution, after several Democratic senators broke ranks to join Republicans in a 60-40 vote passing a compromise deal, sparking intra-party backlash.

Since 1 October, the first day of the shutdown, more than a million federal workers have been unpaid, while government benefits and services have been increasingly disrupted.Severe impacts on air traffic have begun to mount in recent days, with more than 1,000 flights canceled cancelleddaily, raising the political pressure to end the stalemate.

“We’ll be opening up our country very quickly,” Trump told reporters in the Oval Office, adding: “The deal is very good.”

After the vote, Senate Republican Leader John Thune wrote on X that he was glad to support the “clear path to ending this unnecessary shutdown in a responsible way that quickly pays federal workers and reopens the federal government.”

Democratic Senator John Fetterman, who voted to support the Republican measure, posted to X Monday night about his decision.

“Feed everyone. Pay our military, government workers, and Capitol Police. End the chaos in airports. Country over party,” Fetterman said.

With the stopgap funding bill passed through the Senate, the legislation moves to the House of Representatives for a vote, which like the Senate is controlled by Republicans.

The chamber is expected to reconvene as early as Wednesday, as Tuesday is a national holiday.

“It appears to us this morning that our long national nightmare is finally coming to an end, and we’re grateful for that,” House Speaker Mike Johnson told reporters Monday.

“At least some Democrats now finally appear ready to do what Republicans and President Trump and millions of hardworking American people have been asking them to do for weeks.”

The House, which Johnson has kept out of session throughout the standoff, would be called back this week, he said.

Obamacare

At the heart of the Senate standoff was Democrats’ demand to extend health insurance subsidies expiring at the end of the year. Republicans insisted any negotiation occur after the government is re-opened.

Millions of Americans who have purchased health insurance through the “Obamacare” program would see their costs double if the subsidies are not extended.

Sunday’s breakthrough agreement would re-open the government through January, with some programs funded for the full fiscal year, and reverse some of the Trump administration’s firings of federal workers.

The bill notably would restore funding for the SNAP food aid program, which helps more than 42 million lower-income Americans pay for groceries.

While the Senate’s Republican leadership has agreed to hold an eventual vote on health care, it does not ensure the insurance subsidies will be extended.

“After 40 days of uncertainty, I’m profoundly glad to be able to announce that nutrition programs, our veterans, and other critical priorities will have their full-year funding,” Senate Majority Leader John Thune said late Sunday.

Divided Democrats

Senator Jeanne Shaheen, one of eight Democratic caucus members who backed the measure, said the Senate “took a big step forward towards protecting the health care of tens of millions of Americans.”

She said the agreement would grant Democrats, despite being in the minority, the power to call a vote on health care legislation.

However, with the extension of the subsidies not guaranteed, the move has angered party members who preferred to keep holding out.

“Pathetic,” California Governor Gavin Newsom posted on X in reaction to the announced agreement.

Top Senate Democrat Chuck Schumer voted no, saying he could “not in good faith” support a measure “that fails to address the health care crisis.”

“This fight will and must continue,” he vowed.

Some lawmakers criticized Schumer himself for failing to keep the Democrats united.

“Tonight is another example of why we need new leadership,” Massachusetts Representative Seth Moulton said Sunday.

© Agence France-Presse

8 in 10 people in Singapore delayed medical care to prioritise work and avoid burdening family

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  • Uncertainty over where to seek help, along with worries about cost are also major barriers
  • Better understanding of health costs and support for patients at every step are key to improving patient experiences

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 November 2025 – Recognised globally for its excellence, Singapore has built a strong healthcare system that provides efficiency and choice to patients who cite high satisfaction levels with the medical care they received. Despite this, 83 per cent of Singapore respondents said they have delayed care in the past year, according to an Economist Impact report commissioned by Prudential plc (“Prudential”).

The report, “Patient voices Singapore: towards more informed and seamless care”, found that many do so for personal reasons such as an obligation to prioritise work over self-care, and concern about being a financial or care-giving burden to family. Others felt their symptoms were not severe enough to seek help or were held back by previous bad experiences (Figure 2 in report).

Dr. Sidharth Kachroo, Chief Health Officer at Prudential Singapore, said this only compounds the problem and can escalate minor health conditions into major health and financial burdens later.

“Singapore has built a strong and well-resourced healthcare foundation. The path forward requires shifting the focus to making it a well-understood and easily accessible system for all. Support is available in both public and private sectors to provide patient choice and access to care. Payers, providers and policymakers can do more collectively to improve awareness of this support, so that patients feel more confident in seeking the care they need.”

Patients want greater clarity on where to seek care

The findings suggested that ambiguity around the healthcare journey also contributes to Singapore respondents putting off care. Sixty-one per cent of respondents said they don’t feel they have the right information to make a decision on treatment and 60 per cent said that they often don’t know where to go when something is wrong (Figure 3 in report).

Initiatives such as Healthier SG[1] which emphasise the central role of family doctors in Singapore’s integrated healthcare system help to provide clarity on where and how to start the patient journey.

Dr. Sarah Lu, Managing Director (Singapore Healthcare), Raffles Medical Group and Executive Medical Director, Raffles Hospital, said: “By actively managing our health with the help of our Family Physicians (FP), we reinforce the focus for preventive, proactive and personalised care. This sustained relationship with our FPs engages our patients to be part of a shared healthcare journey, building a strong foundation for many healthy years ahead.

“Where escalation of care is necessary, FPs play a central role coordinating and managing the health of patients together with the specialists, ensuring a smooth and integrated care journey.”

When asked about the factors that offer the greatest sense of support, confidence and peace of mind when seeking medical care, 39 per cent of respondents said that they prefer healthcare that causes minimal disruption to daily life and 31 per cent wanted guidance throughout the care process (Figure 6 in report).

Arjan Toor, CEO, Health, Prudential plc, said: “At Prudential, we believe that improving the patient experience starts with a deep understanding of what patients truly need to experience peace of mind. Our Patient Voices study has helped us understand that many patients face uncertainty and confusion when seeking care. That’s why we’re focused on removing the worry and hassle — by helping patients find the right doctor, understand what they’re covered for, and know what to expect when it comes to costs. By guiding them every step of the way, we’re making healthcare more accessible and less overwhelming — so that patients can focus on the thing that matters most, which is to get better.”

More certainty on healthcare costs is needed

Certainty around costs is another important area raised by the respondents surveyed. Despite a strong financial safety net in public and/or private health insurance, 23 per cent of those who delayed care cited cost as a reason (Figure 2 in report). Furthermore, just over six in 10 worried if they could pay for care they needed (Figure 3 in the report), while about half found bills higher than expected in the past year.

Nidhi Swarup, founding chairperson of the Alliance of Patients’ Organisations Singapore, said in the report: “The conversation about costs starts only when they’re at the emergency department. That’s when people say, ‘We didn’t expect the cost to be so high’. People need a lot of education about how to plan for unexpected medical costs.”

Singapore’s S+3M[2] is the bedrock of the country’s healthcare system and keeps essential care affordable at restructured hospitals. Those who want additional coverage at higher tier wards, or treatment at private hospitals, can consider Integrated Shield Plans to complement and offer extra cover.

The national fee benchmarks provided by the Ministry of Health, and the Health Insurance Planner[3] bill comparison tool which compares Integrated Shield Plan premiums and provides cost projections, also help individuals plan for the future.

Dr. Kachroo added: “Health insurers play a role in ensuring that policyholders get access to affordable, high-quality care. Our financial representatives help people plan how they can afford their preferred type of care and understand what’s covered or paid out-of-pocket.

“Through Prudential’s preferred panel hospital partnerships, we give our policyholders quality care and greater cost certainty as fees are agreed upfront, and our concierge officers are on-site at the hospital to clarify policy queries. These are all vital elements to a positive patient journey and experience.

“Health crises can hit when we least expect it, so our goal is simple. Provide patients in Singapore the confidence and certainty to seek the right healthcare when and where they need it most.”

About the report

“Patient voices Singapore: towards more informed and seamless care” is an Economist Impact report, commissioned by Prudential, and examines how people in Singapore experience healthcare. The analysis was based on a survey of 1,024 adults aged 18 to over 80 years old in the country between April and May 2025, and includes insights from three local experts.

The full report can be accessed here.

[1] For more information on Healthier SG: https://www.healthiersg.gov.sg/about/what-is-healthier-sg/

[2] For more information on S+3M (Subsidies, MediSave, MediShield Life and MediFund): https://www.moh.gov.sg/managing-expenses/keeping-healthcare-affordable/managing-medical-bills/#f3b85daa745d0ae7958389adac8cb292

[3] For more information on the Health Insurance Planner tool, please visit: https://www.cpf.gov.sg/member/tools-and-services/planners/cpf-planner-health-insurance

Hashtag: #Prudential




The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Prudential Assurance Company Singapore (Pte) Ltd (Prudential Singapore)

Prudential Assurance Company Singapore (Pte) Ltd is one of the top life and health insurance companies in Singapore, serving the financial and protection needs of the country’s citizens for 94 years. The company has an AA- Financial Strength Rating from leading credit rating agency Standard & Poor’s, with S$57.7 billion funds under management as at 31 December 2024. It delivers a suite of well-rounded product offerings in Protection, Savings and Investment through multiple distribution channels including a network of more than 5,400 financial representatives.

VT Academy Unveils Free, Comprehensive Trading Education to Cater to Traders of all Levels

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SYDNEY, Nov. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — VT Academy, the educational platform from VT Markets, has officially relaunched its learning portal, marking the next chapter in its mission to close the global financial literacy gap and empower traders to thrive in an increasingly complex market environment.

VT Academy Unveils Free, Comprehensive Trading Education to Cater to Traders of all Levels
VT Academy Unveils Free, Comprehensive Trading Education to Cater to Traders of all Levels

Financial literacy remains a global challenge, with the OECD/INFE 2023 survey showing only 34% of adults in 39 countries meeting the minimum proficiency score of 70/100, which highlights that many are ill-equipped to navigate today’s complex financial environment. At the same time, the World Economic Forum reports 2.3 billion people remain underserved by traditional financial services, driving a surge in the adoption of emerging, non-traditional investment products. This shift underscores the urgent need for accessible, practical education to help individuals make informed decisions across both traditional and emerging financial markets.

These statistics emphasize the critical need for accessible, regionally relevant financial education. VT Academy is committed to addressing this gap by providing free tailored content that helps traders build skills, manage risks, and make informed decisions in today’s complex financial landscape.

This relaunch builds on the momentum of VT Markets’ The Trading Vault webinar series hosted by Ross Maxwell, Global Strategy Operations Lead at VT Markets, which has been widely praised for delivering clear, actionable insights to global traders. The series’ strong reception reaffirmed the demand for high-quality, accessible trader education and set the stage for VT Academy’s expanded curriculum.

“In today’s fast-moving financial landscape, knowledge is a trader’s most valuable edge,” said Ross Maxwell, Global Strategy Operations Lead at VT Markets. “The relaunch of VT Academy brings our commitment to the life by delivering tailored, practical education that empowers traders. From navigating market volatility to exploring evolving investment opportunities, we’re giving them the skills, strategies, and confidence to succeed,” he adds.

With a curriculum designed to cater to traders of all levels, VT Academy offers courses that range from beginner to advanced, providing localized, engaging, and practical content. As the global trading environment continues to evolve, VT Academy’s courses are continuously updated to reflect these changes.

Unveiled: the new 3D virtual tour of the Lord Ashcroft VC and GC Gallery

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LONDON, Nov. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — An exciting new 3D virtual tour of the Lord Ashcroft VC & GC Gallery has been unveiled today, Armistice Day.

The tour has gone “live” on a new website, only a few weeks after the Lord Ashcroft Gallery at Imperial War Museum in London closed its doors to visitors.

Visit The Lord Ashcroft Medal Collection website
Visit The Lord Ashcroft Medal Collection website

Over the past 40 years, Lord Ashcroft has amassed the largest collection of Victoria Crosses in the world – currently more than 240 decorations – along with a smaller collection of George Crosses. The two medals are Britain and the Commonwealth’s most prestigious gallantry awards.

His collection of VCs and GCs has been on display for the past 15 years at the gallery bearing his name at IWM, London. However, despite widespread criticism of the decision, the IWM shut the gallery on September 30 this year.

Lord Ashcroft said: “I was heartbroken when I learnt of the IWM’s decision. However, when I discovered quite how many other people were equally distraught at the news, I resolved to do something to counter the loss of the gallery.

“The result is that today I am delighted to be able to unveil this extraordinary 3D virtual tour which is the next best thing to having the gallery still open at the IWM. I would like to thank all those who have worked so hard over recent months to create this wonderful project.

“The new virtual gallery will tell hundreds of inspirational tales of courage. My medal collections span most of the major wars and conflicts from the past 170 years going back to the Crimean War – the bitter conflict that eventually led to the creation of the VC.

“Whereas the IWM will in future highlight diversity and other woke subjects, my new website will champion courage, particularly the recipients of the VC and the GC, those exceptional men and women whom I like to refer to as ‘the bravest of the brave’.”

Lord Ashcroft’s VC collection includes one of only three VCs and Bars – the equivalent of two VCs – that have been awarded since the decoration was created by Queen Victoria in 1856 to recognise outstanding valour in the presence of the enemy.

The virtual tour is the highlight of a new website: LordAshcroftMedalCollection.com. This will eventually contain information on all items in The Lord Ashcroft Medal Collection. As well as his VC and GC medal groups, Lord Ashcroft owns a formidable Special Forces medal collection and decorations for gallantry in the air.

Lord Ashcroft is currently exploring several options to allow his collection of VCs and GCs, and possibly his other medal collections, to go on public display again. He wants them to be enjoyed by as many people as possible over the years and decades ahead. Any developments relating to new exhibitions of the medals will be announced on his new website.

Lord Ashcroft has spent the last 20 years championing bravery. He has lectured extensively on courage and he has written seven books in the “heroes” series, most of them based largely on his own medal collections.

 

 

Solo Travel on the Rise Across Asia in 2025, Agoda Reports

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SINGAPORE, Nov. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In honor of Singles Day on November 11, digital travel platform Agoda reports a rise in solo travel interest across Asia in 2025, with a 16% increase in accommodation searches compared to last year. This trend underscores a growing movement of travelers embracing the freedom and adventure of solo journeys.

When planning their trips, solo travelers gravitate towards major cities, with Tokyo (Japan) leading the pack, and Bangkok (Thailand), Seoul (South Korea), Osaka (Japan), and Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) rounding out the top five destinations. These urban hubs offer a wide range of attractions, from cultural landmarks to world-class dining and lively entertainment, perfect for those looking to explore the world at their own pace. While these destinations have long been popular with all types of travelers, their unique offerings make them equally appealing to those traveling solo.

At the forefront of this trend are travelers from Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Indonesia, and Taiwan, who make up the top five solo travel groups in Asia. While Japanese travelers dominate in numbers, interest in solo travel has grown the fastest among Indonesians with a 72% increase in searches. Thai travelers follow close behind, with a 37% rise in solo travel interest. This growth highlights a transformative shift in how individuals across Asia are redefining their travel experiences and looking beyond traditional group trips.

Jay Lee, Regional Director, North Asia at Agoda, shared, “The rise in solo travel across Asia has become a defining trend in 2025 that reflects a growing desire for personal discovery and meaningful cultural immersion. Agoda is thrilled to support these journeys by offering a wide array of options tailored to solo travelers, ensuring they have everything they need to make their trips unforgettable.”

As travelers plan their next solo adventures, Agoda is ready to help with over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, all easily combined in a single booking. Discover the best deals on Agoda’s mobile app and visit Agoda.com for more information.

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