Sandton Times Hour Edition 142 Podcast Show Notes

The weekly Sandton Times Hour is a Sandton magazine show that brings the wanted online pages of The Sandton Times to life. As the only radio show and podcast dedicated to Africa’s richest square mile, this Sandton magazine show is packed with an array of entertaining and informative interviews blended with the best music, every week on Mix 93.8, Mondays at 7pm.

Head to Miami in the United States for the christening of the Norwegian Viva, the latest Prima-class cruise ship owned by Norwegian Cruise Line.
Take a tour of the Norwegian Viva as it heads to the Bahamas to spend an afternoon swimming with pigs in the ocean.
Kevin Bubolz, Vice President & Managing Director of Continental Europe, Middle East, and Africa at Norwegian Cruise Line chats about current and future cruise plans.
Take a tour of Miami to get a feel for the city, it’s people and why you might want to add this destination to your travel bucket list for 2024!
Visit www.sandtontimes.co.za for more stories.

The Sandton Times offers readers all they ever wanted online, and The Sandton Times Hour is the go-to weekly magazine show broadcast from greater Sandton. The Sandton magazine show features fabulous food spots, luxurious lifestyle bits, first-hand travel tips, motoring notes, and world-class entertainment, business and so much more beyond the borders of greater Sandton. In 2023, the radio show and podcast was selected by Feedspot panellists at #15 on a ranking of Top 40 South Africa Podcasts on the web.

In this week’s show [Edition 142 | Week 04] The Sandton Times covers an array of topical news as well as these interviews:

Christening Of The Norwegian Viva

In a dazzling display of glamour and Latin flair, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) brought the ‘Cruise Capital of the World’ to life with the christening of its highly anticipated vessel, Norwegian Viva. The Sandton Times joined international media, captains of industry as well as leaders in travel, tourism and cruising for the christening ceremony of Norwegian Viva in Miami. The event, attended by over 1’500 guests, was a celebration of innovation, luxury, and the vibrant Latin spirit that Miami is globally renowned for.

Read the full story: In Miami: Norwegian Viva Takes Center Stage At Star-Studded Christening

A Tour Of The Norwegian Viva

Sandton Times Hour — The Norwegian Viva boasts approximately 13 dining options, a diverse array ranging from inclusive to specialty dining with surcharges. With over 18 spots to enjoy a drink, the ship ensures no shortage of libations. Image: The Sandton Times

Cruises have often been referred to as a hassle-free holiday and floating resorts – a haven at sea filled with sun, fresh air, and exotic stops. Yet, modern cruises go above and beyond, offering extraordinary ‘only at sea’ adventures that promise to make your getaway truly unforgettable.

The Norwegian Viva, a marvel of maritime luxury, accommodates around 3’099 guests with a dedicated crew of 1’506 ensuring an impeccable onboard experience. Offering a range of accommodations, from Suites, Club Balcony Suites, Balcony Rooms, Oceanview Rooms, Inside Rooms to Studio Rooms, the ship caters to diverse preferences. For those seeking the epitome of luxury, The Haven, concealed at the ship’s zenith, provides opulent rooms, 24-hour butler service, concierge amenities, and a private sundeck and bar.

Entertainment abounds, featuring a Speedway Go-Cart track, water slides, The Beetlejuice Musical, a comedy club, live music performances, top-to-bottom thrill slides, a gym, infinity pools, and a stunning spa with a thermal lounge, saunas, and treatment rooms. For those in the mood for retail therapy, shopping options are available, and you can also grab a Starbucks while soaking in the ship’s myriad offerings. The Norwegian Viva promises an unparalleled cruise experience with a blend of luxury, entertainment, and indulgence.

Cruisers can indulge in exhilarating activities both on and off the Norwegian Viva, ranging from zipping around onboard to embarking on helicopter tours and ziplining. Here are 5 top attractions that await you onboard:

1. Go-Karts at Sea: The Norwegian Viva Speedway boast the first three-level go-kart racetrack at sea, spanning an incredible 419 meters. Electric go-karts reaching speeds of 50 km/h race down straightaways, offering breath-taking views of the surrounding ocean. With a capacity for up to 15 racers, it’s a family-friendly, adrenaline-packed race.
2. Walk on Water: For a unique strolling experience and a subtler adrenaline rush, NCL’s newest ship, Norwegian Viva, features two glass-floored Oceanwalk bridges. Passengers can stroll over the open sea, enjoying panoramic views from over 4 meters above water – an activity perfect for capturing envy-inducing Instagram shots.
3. The Fastest and Tallest Slides at Sea: Experience the thrill of the best amusement park slides at sea on NCL’s duelling waterslides. Race down side-by-side twisting tracks with the highest g-forces at sea on The Rush. For a smoother ride, The Drop’s free-fall slide allows you to descend comfortably from the ship’s top, covering a stomach-somersaulting 10 stories.
4. A Virtual Adrenalin Rush: Galaxy Pavilion offers an AI-powered adrenaline rush. This indoor theme park provides immersive virtual experiences, from simulated thrill rides to escape rooms and virtual golf. It’s a haven for tech-savvy thrill-seekers!
5. Relaxing Luxury: The wellness travel trend continues to grow, and with it, the demand for wellness cruising. A standout feature of the Norwegian Viva, the magnificent Mandara Spa, speaks to this trend, offering next-level self-care and a haven for passengers to relax, recharge, and rejuvenate on their voyage. Overlooking the ocean and with water as a central theme, the spa showcases a breath-taking two-storey waterfall, healing pools, and an experiential multi-sensory shower. A steam room, salt room, ice room, and the first-ever charcoal sauna at sea are housed in the unique Thermal Suite. The extensive treatment menu includes beauty therapy, aesthetic treatments, acupuncture, and massage. Passengers can also stay “shipshape” at the top-end Pulse Fitness Centre. The Mandara Spa is accessible 24/7, providing an ideal opportunity to indulge in pampering when the ship cruises non-stop between ports. It also offers a welcome retreat after sightseeing excursions.

Current And Future Cruise Plans With NCL Vice President & Managing Director (EMEA) With Kevin Bubolz

Kevin Bubolz, the Vice President & Managing Director of Continental Europe, Middle East, and Africa at Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), is a seasoned professional with a rich history in the travel and cruising industry. His journey began in 1997 when he entered the travel world as a travel agent at TUI Leisure Travel GmbH in Kiel. His transition to the cruising industry occurred in 2005 when he joined Norwegian Cruise Line’s European branch office in Wiesbaden, Germany.

Throughout his career, Kevin has showcased his passion for cruising and the travel industry. His impressive trajectory within NCL includes various roles in marketing, sales, and revenue management. Before assuming his current position, he held the vital role of Vice President of Commercial and Business Planning at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NCLH), overseeing strategic initiatives that contributed significantly to the company’s international success.

One of Kevin’s standout achievements was the establishment of the Commercial Business Planning department in 2015. This unit serves as a strategic interface between the global head office of NCLH and its international offices, playing a pivotal role in steering the company’s international business and fortifying its global standing.

Born and raised in the maritime city of Kiel at the Baltic Sea, Kevin’s connection with the sea runs deep. He is not only a dedicated professional but also a family man, married with two daughters who share his enthusiasm for travel and cruising.

Exploring The Magic Of Miami

With its 800 Art Deco buildings gracing renowned spots like Ocean Drive and South Beach, Miami’s cinematic charm has reached audiences worldwide through movies like Miami Vice, The Birdcage, and Bad Boys.

From the cultural richness of Little Havana to the opulence of Gianni’s Restaurant at The Villa Casa Casuarina, the city promises a vibrant experience.

Gianni’s, located at 1116 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, is a culinary gem housed in the former Versace Mansion. Serving a delectable blend of Italian Mediterranean food and wines, Gianni’s invites guests to savour flavours in a historic setting. Once the residence of Italian fashion designer Gianni Versace, the mansion is now a luxury boutique hotel, restaurant, and event venue. Lunch by the renowned Thousand Mosaic Pool, adorned with 24-karat gold tiles, offers not just a meal but a bucket-list experience.

Venturing into Little Havana, discover the heart of Cuban culture, with Latin American shops and restaurants lining the streets. A standout is Sanguich De Miami, a cafe specializing in gourmet handcrafted Cuban sanguiches. For enthusiasts of Latin American cuisine, Little Havana is a must-visit, offering an authentic taste of the region.

Miami captivates with its cinematic allure, cultural diversity, and culinary delights. Whether strolling along the iconic Ocean Drive or savouring a gourmet sanguiche in Little Havana, the city leaves an indelible mark on every visitor. Exploring Miami for 3-5 days provides a comprehensive overview, unveiling its vibrant tapestry of experiences.

Sandton Times Hour Music Playlist

Gloria Estefan – You’ll Be Mine (Party Time)
Luis Fonsi, Demi Lovato – Échame La Culpa
Will Smith – Miami
The Village People – YMCA (’93 Remix)

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