Hong Kong Tourism Board and National Geographic Launch Great Outdoors Campaign

Hong Kong’s greatest secret revealed through the lenses of National Geographic photographers

The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) announced today it has partnered with National Geographic, the world’s destination for science, exploration, and adventure, to promote Hong Kong’s 10th annual “Great Outdoors” campaign, featuring 13 of the city’s most stunning landscapes. Visitors to Hong Kong will discover some of Hong Kong’s most picturesque nature trails through the contrasting lenses of National Geographic photographers and trail experts as part of HKTB’s campaign: “One Place, Two Perspectives.”

Visitors to Hong Kong will discover some of Hong Kong’s most picturesque nature trails through the contrasting lenses of National Geographic photographers and trail experts as part of HKTB’s campaign: “One Place, Two Perspectives.” (Photo: Business Wire)

Hong Kong’s storied history, award-winning food and libations, vibrant arts and culture scene, and stunning great outdoors has made it widely-known as one of the most exhilarating destinations in the world. Its mesmerizing contrasts of east and west, modern and ancient, and urban and natural leaves its visitors endless choices when planning a trip to Asia’s World City.

This innovative partnership celebrates one of Hong Kong’s greatest secrets: its stunning natural beauty. Three-quarters of Hong Kong’s landmass is actually countryside, and the vast network of hiking trails is easily accessible from any corner of the city. The Great Outdoors campaign showcases imagery of city views with verdant mountains; traditional villages with natural flora and fauna, and beautiful landscapes with stunning seascapes presenting Hong Kong as a jaw-dropping, breathtaking visual dichotomy.

“We are delighted to be working with a powerful brand like National Geographic, which has a huge number of followers, who enjoy traveling and adventures,” says Anthony Lau, Executive Director of the HKTB. “In this fresh attempt to showcase Hong Kong’s natural beauty through stunning photography and inspiring stories by some of the world’s top photographers, we hope to encourage visitors to discover another side of cosmopolitan Hong Kong during the hiking season from November to March.”

“One Place, Two Perspectives” is presented by an incredibly talented team, including:

French photographer Matthieu Paley, one of the Nat Geo contributing photographers, whose assignments have taken him to far-flung corners of the globe. Paley has lived in Hong Kong for nine years and is intimately acquainted with the city’s natural landscapes. In coordination with the campaign, Paley captured Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark’s majestic volcanic rock columns on land as well as the park’s mesmerizing aqua waters. https://youtu.be/eQ7C19pJ3-A

National Geographic award-winning photographer and Hongkonger Tugo Cheng, whose background in architecture gives his work a unique aesthetic, delivers an inside scoop on the beauty of Hong Kong’s natural landscape. Through his camera, Cheng takes visitors to the historical Sam A Village to explore the indigenous culture, and then to the exotic plants and wildlife that thrive in Plover Cove Country Park. https://youtu.be/MZq8NScpPTs

Trail runner Wyan Chow Pui-yan, who was the first local female to win the Vibram Hong Kong 100 and who placed 17th in the Ultra Trail World Tour, leads the Nat Geo team into Tai Mo Shan Country Park — and the city’s tallest mountain at more than 2,000 feet (900 meters) above sea level. Chow and her godmother, who runs a popular kiosk in the park, share their insights on hiking and trail-running along Tai Mo Shan, as well as their love for the magnificent sunset views of the highest peak in Hong Kong.

“As a community of bold explorers with an insatiable curiosity, there’s nothing we like more than showing people new perspectives on the world around them,” says Con Apostolopoulos, Senior Vice President, National Geographic Partners, Asia Pacific & the Middle East. “Partnering with HKTB is a fantastic opportunity to transform the way people think about Hong Kong; showing off its contrasting urban and rural beauty in a new light through the lens of talented photographers and explorers.”

The National Geographic and Great Outdoors Hong Kong campaign will shine the spotlight on the green treasures of Asia’s World City, beyond the city’s familiar bustling skyscrapers and developments. For more information about Great Outdoors Hong Kong, please visit http://www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/see-do/great-outdoors/index.jsp

The Guide to Hiking & Cycling in Hong Kong is available at HKTB visitor centers throughout Hong Kong. An e-version is also available for download at http://www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/plan-your-trip/travel-kit/guides.jsp#outdoors

Visit www.discoverhongkong.com for more information; follow the Hong Kong Tourism Board on Twitter at @HongKongTourism for the latest Hong Kong news.

National Geographic and Katie Couric Launch Screening Tour for Upcoming Documentary “Gender Revolution: A Journey With Katie Couric”

Two-Hour Documentary Hosted and Executive Produced by Couric Is Available for Free to All Schools and Nonprofits That Will Host Inclusive Screenings and Conversations

First look clip from GENDER REVOLUTION: A JOURNEY WITH KATIE COURIC: https://files.natgeonetworks.com/_Sp2gXfxhvt1d5R

Every day all around the world, gender is making headlines, weaving its way into conversations big and small, in settings from the government to households, from schools to places of employment. The two-hour National Geographic documentary GENDER REVOLUTION: A JOURNEY WITH KATIE COURIC (trailer here) approaches the topic of gender through the lens of science, society, and culture, all woven together by personal stories and experiences.

National Geographic logo. (PRNewsFoto/National Geographic Society)

In GENDER REVOLUTION: A JOURNEY WITH KATIE COURIC, premiering Monday, Feb. 6, at 9/8c, National Geographic set out to explore this evolving concept of gender through the lens of science, society, and culture. Produced by Katie Couric Media with National Geographic Studios and World of Wonder Productions, the special will also air on National Geographic around the globe in 171 countries and in 45 languages.

To extend the life of this important documentary beyond its Feb. 6 television broadcast, National Geographic and Picture Motion are partnering on the Gender Revolution Tour, allowing any high school, college, university or nonprofit to sign up to host a free screening and discussion. The tour will harness the momentum of the conversations happening around the globe and offer an opportunity to have an informed dialogue on one of the most complicated and evolving issues in the current zeitgeist. The Gender Revolution Tour is being managed by impact agency Picture Motion.

Requests to participate in the Gender Revolution Tour can be made by filling out the request form at http://bit.ly/NatGeoGenderRevolution. Screening hosts will be sent a DVD of the film and an extensive discussion guide (LINK), created by Journeys in Film, that provides additional resources on understanding gender.

At the time of this release, more than 100 universities, high schools, and non-profit groups have already scheduled screening events of the GENDER REVOLUTION leading up to and during the week of the film’s television premiere on National Geographic.

Katie Couric Media develops and produces content, programming, and documentaries for TV networks and digital distribution platforms, focusing on compelling issues the award-winning journalist and best-selling author has covered throughout her career. Katie Couric Media projects include the “Katie Couric” podcast from Earwolf, which features the host in candid, unscripted conversations about American life and politics; the National Geographic documentary GENDER REVOLUTION; and the upcoming movie “Flint” with Craig Zadan and Neil Meron, about the drinking water contamination in Flint, Michigan. Katie Couric is the executive producer of “Fed Up” (2014) and “Under the Gun” (2016), both documentaries that premiered at the Sundance Film Festival.

“From the very start, it was my hope that as many people as possible would be given the opportunity to see this film,” said Couric. “I am thrilled that along with National Geographic and Picture Motion we are going to be able to share GENDER REVOLUTION and our accompanying discussion guide with groups all over the country.”

“National Geographic is about exploration and discovery. Through the Gender Revolution Tour we want to encourage constructive conversations that will allow people to connect with each other over material that is science-based, investigative and in some cases deeply personal,” said Chris Albert, Executive Vice President, Global Communications for National Geographic. “We believe this is a timely and groundbreaking documentary, and are thrilled to make it available for free to any organization interested in expanding its knowledge on the gender discussion.”

“We are so thrilled, but not entirely surprised, to see GENDER REVOLUTION so embraced. From Catholic Colleges to LGBT advocacy groups, city-based Sororities to mid-west High Schools, Gender Studies programs to Trans Support Groups for Parents; there has been an outpour of support for a film like GENDER REVOLUTION,” said Christie Marchese, CEO and Founder, Picture Motion.

GENDER REVOLUTION is produced by Katie Couric Media, World of Wonder Productions and National Geographic Studios for National Geographic. For Katie Couric Media, executive producers are Katie Couric and Mitch Semel. For World of Wonder, Fenton Bailey, Randy Barbato, and Jeremy Simmons serve as executive producers. For National Geographic Studios, executive producers are Jeff Hasler and Brian Lovett. For National Geographic, Tim Pastore is president, original programming and production, and Michael J. Miller is executive producer.

National Geographic Teams Up with GovMint.com to Develop Limited Edition of Collectible Coins to Benefit Africa’s Big Cats

For the first time ever, National Geographic and the South African Mint have partnered to release limited-edition sets of legal-tender coins. The National Geographic Big Cats Coin Program will benefit the Big Cats Initiative (BCI), a long-term effort supported by National Geographic that aims to halt the decline of big cats in the wild. GovMint.com, one of the world’s leading sources of collectible coins, has signed on as the exclusive distributor. The collection is available for purchase on GovMint.com or by calling 1-800-642-9160.

The collection will feature on its coin face the cheetah, a native species of South Africa. Famously the world’s fastest land animal, cheetahs can accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in just three seconds. Their keen eyesight and ability to make quick and sudden turns also make them a fierce predator. The cheetah’s distinct spotted coat allows them to blend easily into high, dry grasses. Sadly, their population is dwindling due to human encroachment on the wide, open grasslands in which they live. It is estimated that only 7,000 to 10,000 of these big cats remain in their native eastern and southwestern Africa.

Struck at the South African Mint in 99.9 percent pure gold, each gold proof set contains four coins in tenth-ounce, quarter-ounce, half-ounce and one-ounce weights. All obverses feature the year and South African Coat of Arms depicting an eagle with a rising sun at the top and their motto. Each of the coins features four distinct cheetah designs created by the master artists at the South African mint. Coins are displayed in a beautifully crafted wooden case along with an official mint certificate of authenticity and booklet.

Since 1984, GovMint.com has been one of the world’s leading sources of collectible coins. Headquartered in Minneapolis, MN, GovMint.com is an official distributor for seven major world mints and offers collectible coins from over 120 countries. (More information at www.GovMint.com/bigcats or call 800-642-9160.)

“When we consider new editions, we try to choose subjects that we think will not only resonate with our collectors, but that also represent a direct connection to the countries issuing the coins,” said Bill Gale, founder of GovMint.com. “South Africa is proud to feature the cheetah on its gold and silver coins, and shine a spotlight on such a beloved, iconic species.”

“Big Cats in the wild are disappearing at an alarming rate,” said Andy Reif, head of licensing for National Geographic Partners. “It is the goal of National Geographic’s Big Cats Initiative to halt this decline through on-the-ground conservation and education projects. We are happy to support this work through the Big Cats Coin Program, through GovMint.com.”

GovMint.com also offers a one-ounce Sterling Silver Crown 2 Rand (R2) proof. Each silver proof includes the official languages of South Africa surrounding the South African Coat of Arms. Each comes encased in original packaging from the South African Mint, accompanied by an informative booklet.

Proceeds from the National Geographic Big Cat Coin Collection supports National Geographic’s programs, including the conservation of animals and their habitats. National Geographic Society receives funds from National Geographic Partners LLC, funded in part by your purchase. To learn more, visit www.natgeo.com/info.

National Geographic Partners LLC, a joint venture between National Geographic Society and 21st Century Fox, combines National Geographic television channels with National Geographic’s media and consumer-oriented assets, including National Geographic magazines; National Geographic Studios; related digital and social media platforms; books; maps; children’s media; and ancillary activities that include travel, global experiences and events, archival sales, catalog, licensing and e-commerce businesses. A portion of the proceeds from National Geographic Partners LLC will be used to fund science, exploration, conservation and education through significant ongoing contributions to the work of the National Geographic Society. For more information, visit www.nationalgeographic.com. To find out more about the Big Cats Initiative’s work to stop the decline of lions, leopards, tigers and other big cats, visit www.causeanuproar.org.

Travel: NationalGeographic.Com Showcases South Australia’s Adventures Of A Lifetime In New Editorial Hub

From camping with kangaroos in the Flinders Ranges and discovering the laneways of Adelaide, to cruising down Australia’s longest river (Murray River) on a houseboat, NationalGeographic.com today shares 30 of the most amazing adventures available in South Australia.

Mine Tunnel: Modern tunneling technology has replaced the old means of picks and shovels in the opal mines of Coober Pedy, South Australia. After tunneling, the sandstone will be “noodled”—or searched—under UV light in pursuit of the gemstones. Photograph by Daniel R. Westergren

The hub is a result of an ongoing partnership with the state of South Australia, where each of the 30 articles featured showcase a unique experience in the region. In addition, the hub includes stunning photo galleries, an interactive map, a South Australia guide with basic information for those looking to plan a visit, and videos that bring the destination and its experiences to life.

Gawler Ranges ‘Roo: More than two million kangaroos inhabit South Australia, with hundreds of them gathering on the plains below the Gawler Ranges. Photograph by Daniel R. Westergren

South Australia is home to Kangaroo Island (known for its abundant wildlife), the famedBarossa wine region, and the charming capital, Adelaide. The fourth largest of Australia’s six states, South Australia is located in the southern half of the country. Described as the “perfect host city”, Adelaide was named one of the “Top 52 Places to Go” in 2015 by The New York Times. Surrounded by parklands and home to just over 1 million people, the central business district is one square mile – perfect for exploring the popular museums, historic buildings, wide streets and renowned cafes and restaurants. The celebrated Central Market, the largest covered market in the southern hemisphere, bursts with atmosphere all year round. From fresh seafood to gourmet cheeses and baked goods – the market is a special place for locals and visitors alike. South Australia is also a haven for wine lovers.

Over 60% of all exported Australian wines come from the state’s top wine regions including the Barossa, the Clare Valley and Coonawarra Outdoor adventure activities such as hiking, diving and mountain biking are abundant in this nature-filled state. South Australia arguably has the most accessible native wildlife in the country. Thrill seekers can swim with sharks on the Eyre Peninsula or others after something a little less daring (but just as spectacular) can catch a glimpse of a sea-lion colony on Kangaroo Island. Known as the “Gateway to the Outback,” South Australia is also home to Coober Pedy, the world’s opal mining capital.

Bearded Dragon: The bearded dragon gets its name from its ability to puff out the spiky underside of its neck when threatened. It can change colors—such as to black, like this one—if the lizard feels threatened. The reptile species originates from Australia. Photograph by Daniel R. Westergren

Bedroll Carriage: In Australia, a “swag” is a bedroll used for camping in the bush. Many resorts offer visitors this option, but some places—like the Kangaluna Camp in the Gawler Ranges—takes the idea to another level with an advanced outdoor bed, as pictured here. Photograph by Daniel R. Westergren

ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCES FEATURED ON THE SITE INCLUDE:

LIVE THE STATION LIFE: Staying in workers’ quarters on an outback cattle or sheep station

HIKE THE HEYSEN: Australia’s longest hiking trail

SAIL AWAY TO KANGAROO ISLAND: A refuge for wildlife, fine scenery and beaches off the coast

TRACK THE OUTBACK: Focusing on the outback tracks of the northern desert region

EXPLORE AN ANCIENT CULTURE: From ancient Aboriginal sites and rock art to indigenous guided tours in the Flinders Ranges

RIDE THE GHAN: Australia’s most iconic rail trip from Adelaide north through the central Australian desert

TOUR THE WINE TRAILS: Explore South Australia’s renowned wine districts

HEAD UNDERGROUND IN COOBER PEDY: Stay in the famous opal mining town where the searing heat drives residents underground (http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/travel/south-australia-adventures/head-underground-in-coober-pedy/)

Mining Truck: Modern mining machinery has made its way into Coober Pedy. Originally, opal was mined from the rock in the area using pick and shovel. As the holes became deeper, hand-operated winches were used to bring up waste, followed by blower trucks—huge vacuum cleaners—to suck out mullock, or waste, from the mines. Photograph by Daniel R. Westergren

Underground Church: The Church of St. Elijah the Prophet, a Serbian Orthodox church in Coober Pedy, was carved out in 1993 by Serbian-Australians who had settled in the area. Thanks to its underground location, it remains an attraction in the area. Photograph by Daniel R. Westergren

FLIGHTSEE LAKE EYRE: See Australia’s largest lake, a huge white salt pan when dry, teeming with life when deluged by infrequent rains

National Geographic Travel Announces 2016 World Legacy Awards Finalists

Finalists Comprises of Travel Companies, Organizations And Destinations Driving Positive Transformation Of The Global Tourism Industry

The 15 finalists of the 2016 National Geographic World Legacy Awards were unveiled this past week. The World Legacy Awards, a partnership between the National Geographic Society and ITB Berlin, showcase the leading travel and tourism companies, organizations and destinations — ranging from large resorts to small eco-lodges and from wildlife conservancies to geoparks — driving the sustainable tourism transformation of the travel industry based on National Geographic’s work of inspiring people to care about the planet.

Costas Christ, chairman of National Geographic World Legacy Awards, said, “Sustainable tourism is the foundation for the future of the travel industry, and those destinations and companies that understand this today will be the global leaders of tomorrow. Tourism is based on selling culture and nature — the very things sustainable tourism practices work to protect. Have you ever heard someone come back from a vacation and say, ‘I just had a great holiday hiking in a dead rain forest and then staying on a beach filled with trash?’ The World Legacy Awards finalists are all about protecting the places travelers love to visit and benefiting the local people who live there. Together, these 15 finalists are working towards a future when all tourism will be sustainable.”

More than 150 World Legacy Awards entries were received, representing 51 countries and six continents. Finalists in five award categories were selected by an international team of judges. The judging process also included on-site inspections of all finalists. For details on the judges, go to http://www.nationalgeographic.com/worldlegacyawards/judging.html.

The National Geographic World Legacy Awards finalists are:

CONSERVING THE NATURAL WORLD — Recognizing outstanding support for the preservation of nature, restoring natural habitat and protecting rare and endangered species, whether on land or in the oceans.

Arkaba by Wild Bush Luxury, Australia — Located on the outskirts of Flinders Ranges National Park, Wild Bush has systematically restored a 60,000-acre former sheep ranch into a thriving wildlife conservancy. Sharing its scientific monitoring of the area’s biodiversity with its guests, conservation groups and community members, Wild Bush is demonstrating that eco-tourism can be a vehicle for nature conservation and rural economic growth.

A Unique Elephant Experience at Elephant Hill, Thailand

Elephant Hills, Thailand — With two tented camps bordering remote Khao Sok National Park, Elephant Hills focuses on the protection of the endangered wild Asian elephant. Through guest and community education, including caring for rescued elephants, Elephant Hills is demonstrating that local livelihoods can be improved through conservation-based tourism, while supporting an alternative to captive elephant riding as a tourism attraction.

Grupo Ecológico Sierra Gorda, Mexico — This nonprofit grassroots community organization has been instrumental in the creation and maintenance of the Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve, an area of rich biodiversity in central Mexico. Working with local communities, Sierra Gorda has provided new opportunities for employment, encouraging and supporting the development of small eco-tourism businesses, while monitoring and tracking benefits to biodiversity conservation and economic development.

EARTH CHANGERS — Recognizing cutting-edge leadership in environmentally friendly business practices and green technology, from renewable energy and water conservation to zero-waste systems and carbon emissions reduction.

Mission Hills, China

Mission Hills, China —Demonstrating that environmental responsibility can be adopted across the Chinese tourism industry, Mission Hills published a sustainability manual and was one of the first resorts in mainland China to engage in green operations. They launched an educational campaign against the sale of ivory and shark fin. Incorporating solar-powered golf carts and solar “pest control,” Mission Hills Haikou earned the UK based Golf Environment Organization’s certification in 2014.

Laguna Lodge, Guatemala — A luxury eco-lodge focused on green operations and environmental responsibility, Laguna Lodge uses solar power and carefully tracks and monitors energy, water, waste and purchasing. It grows most of its own food, sources locally, and offers a vegetarian and vegan menu to all guests. It also offers cooking classes and highlights the environmentally responsible benefits of food choices.

Inspira Santa Marta Hotel, Portugal — Located in Lisbon, this hotel works to minimize negative impacts on the environment, implement environmentally friendly operations and serve as a role model for Portugal’s tourism industry. In addition to careful tracking of energy and water, the hotel’s “Green Squad” provides leadership in implementing innovative sustainable tourism ideas both in the hotel and the community.

SENSE OF PLACE — Recognizing excellence in enhancing cultural authenticity, including implementing vernacular architecture and design, support for the protection of historic monuments, archaeological sites, indigenous heritage and artistic traditions.

CGH Earth, India — CGH Earth operates 16 properties in southern India emphasizing local cultural heritage, including lodge design, community relations and helping guests experience authentic local culture. All of its properties emulate the traditional design of the region’s villages and are built using local, recycled and reclaimed materials, while the introduction of organic farming and local markets contributes to the conservation of local biodiversity.

Tierra Patagonia, Chile — Built to blend harmoniously with the dramatic landscape of Torres Del Paine National Park, the goal of the lodge construction was to create a place that not only used local materials but also took care to ensure the least amount of disruption possible to the surrounding environment, taking wind patterns, animal trails and native vegetation into account in the lodge design.

TIME Unlimited Tours, New Zealand — TIME (To Integrate Maori Experiences) Unlimited Tours is an Auckland-based eco-tourism company offering environmentally friendly tours across New Zealand. A Maori-owned company, TIME Unlimited introduces guests to both the natural and cultural heritage of New Zealand, providing a “living cultural” experience that immerses guests in the local Maori way of life, benefiting local communities while promoting sustainable tourism.

National Geographic Launches Free ‘Find Your Park, Love Your Park’ Activities, Interactive Map and Curriculum to Celebrate U.S. National Park Service Centennial

With Support from Subaru of America, Activity Modules for Educators Will Encourage Students to Explore, Protect and Love National Parks

To celebrate the 100th anniversary of the founding of the National Park Service in 2016, the National Geographic Society, with support from Subaru of America, Inc., has launched the “Find Your Park, Love Your Park” Educational Initiative (www.NatGeoEd.org/LoveYourPark), developed to teach fourth graders across the United States about the importance of U.S. national parks and to empower students to preserve and protect them.

For almost a century, the National Geographic Society has been raising the public’s awareness of the historical and cultural significance — and majestic beauty — of America’s national parks; and has consistently featured the National Park Service and specific national parks across all of its publications, television channels and expansive digital presence. National Geographic magazine’s April 1916 “Land of the Best” issue published more than 100 photographs of America’s scenic wonders and was used during congressional hearings to help influence Congress to create the National Park Service and the park system.

The “Find Your Park, Love Your Park” Educational Initiative complements the National Park Service and National Park Foundation’s Find Your Park/Encuentra Tu Parque movement to celebrate and share inspirational stories from national parks nationwide. It also bolsters the White House “Every Kid in a Park” initiative, launched in February this year, which provides free entry into national parks for fourth-grade students. The Subaru and National Geographic effort is focused on engaging teachers of fourth graders through activities designed by National Geographic’s education specialists to help students appreciate the importance of protected spaces and consider their impact on them.

National Geographic has developed five free downloadable activity modules for educators, including an interactive map of all U.S. national parks, which invite kids to visit, explore and protect national parks. The activity modules provide educators with fun and engaging activities, including documenting animal tracks at local parks, geocaching scavenger hunts, using digital maps to explore different parks and discussing concrete ways students can help solve challenges facing national parks. Educators, students and their families are encouraged to participate and take a pledge on the new interactive “Pledge to Love America’s Parks” map to visit, protect and love specific parks.

“Subaru and Subaru owners are incredibly passionate about the environment,” said Alan Bethke, vice president of marketing, Subaru of America, Inc. “That’s why we created the ‘Subaru Loves the Earth’ initiative, focused on preserving, protecting and celebrating our national parks. Our support of National Geographic aims to educate and empower the next generation of park-goers to protect our national parks for another 100 years.”

While the activities were developed with fourth-grade educators in mind, they can also serve as a jumping-off point for younger or older students and for families to do together at home. For example, one of the activities is a mini field trip to observe the natural and man-made things they will see in a nearby place and begin mapping them. Parents and caregivers of young children can use these same basic concepts on nature walks — looking for animals and insects and tracking footprints — while older children can take some of the more complex elements of mapping and developing a plan to protect the area deeper.

The interactive map is mobile-responsive and allows users to easily search for national, state and local parks based on their ZIP codes; “claim” a park as their own; and pledge to visit, protect and love the park. The digital experience is filled with pictures and information about parks and allows students, families and classrooms to explore national parks across the country from wherever they are.

Founders of Life is Good® Brand Reveal Power of Optimism in ‘LIFE IS GOOD: The Book’

For over two decades, the much-loved Life is Good^® brand has brought smiles, hope and help to millions. Over the course of their business career, founders and brothers Bert and John Jacobs have learned that optimism more than just a marketing tactic — it’s the force that drove them to overcome tremendous obstacles and build a $100 million clothing company with just $78 and a used minivan. LIFE IS GOOD: The Book: How to Live with Purpose and Enjoy the Ride (National Geographic Books; ISBN 978-1-4262-1563-6; Sept. 1, 2015; $25 hardcover) is the story of the Jacobs brothers’ journey and the secrets to their success.

In 1989, the Jacobs Brothers designed their first T-shirts and began selling their designs in the streets of Boston and out of an old van at colleges and street fairs. Today, Life is Good^® is a $100 million positive lifestyle brand focused on spreading the power of optimism. Ten percent of Life is Good’s annual net profits go to helping kids overcome poverty, violence and illness. The Life is Good Kids Foundation partners with leading childcare organizations to positively impact the quality of care delivered to the most vulnerable children. Bert and John both reside in Boston.

Beginning with their tough upbringing in working-class Boston, LIFE IS GOOD: The Book charts the trajectory of their lives and the company they built. A key influence was their mother, Joan, who could always be counted on to put a humorous and positive spin on everything. “I like running out of money,” she would say. “Then I don’t have to worry about what I need to buy.” This undaunted optimism became the driving force of the Life is Good brand.

As they note in their introduction to the book, studies have demonstrated a strong link between optimism and increased mental and physical health, greater resilience in the face of stress and adversity, and a higher overall quality of life. “Optimism is a powerful and pragmatic strategy for accomplishing goals and living a fulfilling life. By acknowledging obstacles and opportunities — but focusing on the opportunities — optimism enables us to explore the world with open arms and an eye toward solutions, progress and growth. It also makes life a hell of a lot more fun,” they write.

LIFE IS GOOD: The Book offers lighthearted, practical self-help that will inspire and empower readers to embrace life with delight and daring. Bert and John use their experiences to illuminate the 10 Life is Good superpowers that drive optimism:

• Openness is transformative, allowing us to discover new ways of being and acting by withholding judgments and preconceptions.
• Courage is our inner resolve to try new things.
• Simplicity sheds unnecessary complications and distractions.
• Humor is a universal connector.
• Gratitude is the practice of taking stock of the many things that are good, right and working in our lives.
• Compassion is an act of connecting and sharing in the hard stuff, helping ease the pain, heal the hurt and right the wrongs.
• Fun is the irresistible spark that connects and inspires us to feel truly united and alive.
• Creativity enables us to reach beyond conventional thinking to make things better.
• Authenticity is knowing who you are and acting like it.
• Love is the most powerful force in the world.

National Geographic Launches World Legacy Awards in Collaboration with ITB Berlin

National Geographic Traveler and ITB Berlin to Honor Global Sustainable Tourism Best Practices

The World Legacy Awards were launched today at ITB Berlin in a groundbreaking collaboration between two giants in the world of travel. The World Legacy Awards will showcase the leading travel and tourism companies, organizations and destinations — ranging from airlines to ecolodges and from cities to countries — that are driving the global transformation of the travel industry based upon sustainable tourism principles and practices. With a mission of “inspiring people to care about the planet,” the National Geographic Society reaches more than 500 million people worldwide each month through its magazines, television, books, radio, maps, exhibitions, expeditions and online, tablet and social media platforms. ITB Berlin is the largest travel gathering on the planet, attended annually by nearly 200,000 delegates.

The Call for Entries for the World Legacy Awards will start on June 1, 2014, when applications can be submitted for review by an expert judging panel led by Costas Christ, chairman of the World Legacy Awards and one of the world’s foremost experts on sustainable tourism. The awards ceremony will be held at ITB Berlin in March 2015.

The awards are in five categories:

Eco Innovation Award — Recognizing cutting-edge leadership in environmentally friendly business practices and green technology, from renewable energy and water conservation to zero-waste systems and carbon-emission reduction.

Cultural Heritage Award — Recognizing excellence in enhancing sense of place and authenticity, including support for the protection of historical monuments, archaeological sites, cultural events, indigenous heritage and artistic traditions.

Biodiversity Conservation Award — Recognizing outstanding support for the preservation of nature, restoring natural habitat and protecting rare and endangered species, whether on land or in the oceans.

Community Engagement Award — Recognizing direct and tangible economic and social benefits that improve local livelihoods, including training and capacity building, fair wages and benefits, community development, health care and education.

Sustainable Destination Award — Recognizing destination leadership, including cities, provinces, states, countries and regions that are demonstrating environmental best practices, protection of cultural and natural heritage, benefits to local communities and educating travelers on the principles of sustainability.

Keith Bellows, senior vice president and editor in chief of National Geographic Travel Media, said, “For more than 100 years, National Geographic has supported more than 11,000 scientific, conservation and exploration projects around the world. We believe that travel, when planned and managed well, is a critical tool to protect and preserve the world’s most valued treasures. The World Legacy Awards recognize the visionaries who are creating fresh and important advances in sustainable travel. We believe ITB Berlin is a perfect fit with National Geographic — and a powerful partner in this initiative.”

Dr. Christian Göke, chief executive officer of Messe Berlin, said, “As the world’s largest travel trade show, with a strong commitment to promoting corporate social responsibility and sustainable tourism best practices, we are delighted to partner with National Geographic Travel on the launch of the World Legacy Awards at ITB Berlin.”

in addition to being recognized on stage at ITB Berlin during the March 2015 awards ceremony, winners and finalists of the World Legacy Awards will be featured in National Geographic Traveler magazine and other National Geographic media reaching a global audience.

Jalsa Urubshurow, a founding partner sponsor of the awards and CEO of Nomadic Expeditions, said, “Like millions of other people, I grew up reading National Geographic magazine and watching travel documentaries, including those about my ancestral homeland of Mongolia. I can think of no better honor than to be a founding partner sponsor for these prestigious travel awards.”

For more information about the World Legacy Awards and how to apply, go towww.nationalgeographic.com/worldlegacyawards.

National Geographic Travel is the travel arm of the National Geographic Society, one of the world’s largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations, founded in 1888. National Geographic Travel creates meaningful and engaging travel content and experiences through National Geographic Traveler magazine; National Geographic Expeditions; travel books; maps; apps; digital media; and travel photography programs. National Geographic Traveler (eight issues per year) is the world’s most widely read travel magazine and has 14 international editions. It is available by subscription, on newsstands in the United States and Canada, and digitally for tablets. National Geographic Expeditions, the travel program of the Society, offers a variety of unique travel experiences led by top experts to more than 60 destinations across all seven continents. Travel opportunities include family and student expeditions, active adventures, private jet trips and voyages on the six expedition ships in the National Geographic-Lindblad fleet, as well as photography workshops, expeditions and seminars. The National Geographic Travel digital group offers inspiring and authoritative digital travel and adventure content such as trip ideas, photo galleries, blogs and apps. National Geographic Travel Books bring readers curated travel advice and inspiration.

 

ITB Berlin 2014 is the leading trade fair for the worldwide travel industry and will take place from Wednesday to Sunday, March 5 to March 9. From the Wednesday to the Friday and is open to trade visitors only. The ITB Berlin Convention is held parallel with the trade fair, from Wednesday to Friday, March 5 to March 7 and is the world’s largest specialist convention for the industry. More details are available atwww.itb-convention.com. In 2013, a total of 10,086 companies and organisations from 188 countries exhibited their products and services to 170,000 visitors, who included 110,000 trade visitors.

National Geographic Launches First Explorer-Curated Collection, ‘Shop the Road Less Traveled’ Online Boutique

Travels of Explorer Elizabeth Kapu’uwailani Lindsey Inspire Line of Hand-Crafted Goods

The National Geographic launches Shop the Road Less Traveled  (www.shoproadlesstraveled.com), an online shopping destination featuring a collection of handcrafted jewelry, accessories, textiles and home decor inspired by the travels of anthropologist, filmmaker and National Geographic explorer Elizabeth Kapu’uwailani Lindsey. The limited-edition collection reflects the rich cultures, traditions, colors and landscapes that Lindsey encountered on her recent visits to India, Thailand and Bali, and represents National Geographic’s first ever explorer-curated collection.

Products featured in a new online boutique from National Geographic, ‘Shop the Road Less Traveled.’ http://www.shoproadlesstraveled.com. (PRNewsFoto/National Geographic Society)

Each piece from the Shop the Road Less Traveled line offers consumers an opportunity to experience another part of the world and appreciate the work of its talented craftspeople. For the Shop the Road Less Traveled collection, National Geographic carefully selected pillows, ottomans, blankets, decor, jewelry and scarves that are made using ancient techniques. Brothers Suresh and Devander Garg’s intricate Hand-carved Elephant Festival Sculpture is created from a single block of kadam, an evergreen wood common in their home city of Jaipur, India. Jeweler Panapha’s Azure Leather Wrap Bracelet combines 24-karat gold beads and azure-dyed leather using a meticulous technique to yield a bracelet reflecting the vibrant atmosphere of her home in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

The line also includes elegant home goods like the textured Indian Jazz Pillow and bright Paisley Morning Pillow, both in rich turquoise hues. From Jaipur, known for its centuries-old tradition of jewelry making, come gold and red-orange onyx Jaipur Sunshine Earrings, which mimic the natural and architectural landscape of the city; and the Jaipur Amazonite Necklace that harkens back to the jewels of the Mughal Empire. The Boho-hobo Suede Bag, created in Noida, Uttar

National Geographic logo. (PRNewsFoto/National Geographic Society)

Pradesh, combines fine craftsmanship with contemporary touches.

Available only through the online boutique, the Shop the Road Less Traveled line offers colorful goods crafted by artisans using traditional techniques and featuring modern touches. Items purchased from the boutique help support these local artisans as well as National Geographic’s work of exploration, research, conservation and cultural preservation. The collection centers on three themes: Jewel Tones, which features handcrafted items in shades from teal to indigo; Neutral Luxe, which showcases texture, with a selection of handcrafted items in wood, leather, wool and stone; and Royal Accents, which emphasizes scarves, pillows and bedding in vibrant color.

Elizabeth Kapu’uwailani Lindsey was the National Geographic Society’s first female Fellow. A Polynesian explorer and a descendant of Hawaiian chiefs, English seafarers and Chinese merchants, she has dedicated her life to conserving the vanishing cultures of indigenous people, their knowledge and traditions. She is an award-winning filmmaker and anthropologist and is based in Hawaii and San Francisco.

“We journey to discover rich landscapes, beautiful works of art, enchanting cultures and centuries-old crafts that uphold these cultures. Recently I had such an experience as I traveled for three months in Southeast Asia. This collection is inspired by the spirit and beauty of these lands and their cultures,” said Lindsey, whose travels and work focus on the conservation of vanishing indigenous knowledge and tradition.

Visit www.shoproadlesstraveled.com for more information and to view the entire line.

Founded in 1888, the National Geographic Society is one of the world’s largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. Its mission is to inspire people to care about the planet. The member-supported Society offers a community for members to get closer to explorers, connect with other members and help make a difference. The Society reaches more than 450 million people worldwide each month through National Geographic and other magazines; National Geographic Channel; television documentaries; music; radio; films; books; DVDs; maps; exhibitions; live events; school publishing programs; interactive media; and merchandise. National Geographic has funded more than 10,000 scientific research, conservation and exploration projects, and supports an education program promoting geographic literacy. For more information, visit www.nationalgeographic.com.

National Geographic Magazine Devotes 125th Anniversary to Celebrating Power of Photography; Continues Evolution on Web and Beyond

Magazine Launches New Photo Blog and Major Photo-based Social Engagement Platform Timed to October Anniversary

Anniversary Issue Generates Largest Revenue in Magazine’s History

Month Includes Photo Exhibits Opening on Both Coasts

National Geographic magazine (http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/) started publication in October 1888 as the official journal of the National Geographic Society, a nonprofit dedicated to funding science and exploration across the planet. Since then, National Geographic has grown to become one of the most iconic brands in the world. The magazine has a reach of 60 million readers worldwide each month. Following in the footsteps of the magazine, the brand has expanded to include the National Geographic Channel, reaching 440 million households; www.NationalGeographic.com with 27 million unique visitors each month; and a social footprint that touches 30 million people.

October Issue of National Geographic Magazine Celebrates 125th Anniversary. (PRNewsFoto/National Geographic)

The magazine has a celebrated history as an innovative place for photography — from creating the first photographic survey of the night sky in the Northern Hemisphere to making the first color photographs undersea, and it continues to push technological and creative boundaries. Over time, the magazine has redefined itself as a committed outlet for world-class photojournalism, documenting the wonders of the planet and tackling serious issues around environmental and human rights. Today, National Geographic is expanding the scope of its visual storytelling, experimenting with digital experiences to find new ways of documenting the world and of allowing readers to interact with content. In 2012 alone, it won multiple awards, among them three Overseas Press Club Awards and four National Magazine Awards, including General Excellence and Best Tablet Publication.

In print, the magazine marks its 125th anniversary with a special October issue devoted to photography. To complement the release of the issue, National Geographic is also unveiling a new photo blog, “Proof,” on Monday, Sept. 16. Edited by Keith Jenkins, director of photography for http://www.NationalGeographic.com, the blog will take a provocative and eclectic look at the world of National Geographic photography and the field overall.

On Tuesday, Oct. 1, as the magazine’s anniversary month begins, National Geographic will invite all photo enthusiasts to submit photos and participate in an inaugural digital assignment for the magazine, as part of a newly designed, photosharing-based community engagement platform, Your Shot (http://yourshot.nationalgeographic.com/). The Your Shot assignment will be loosely organized around the theme of the October 2013 anniversary issue. Called “The Photography Issue,” the issue focuses on the medium the magazine has helped to shape, looking at how photography has the power to impact our lives by bearing witness, helping to prove fact, giving us insight into each other, revealing unknown places, celebrating wonder and inspiring us to protect our natural world. Featured photographers include Marcus Bleasdale, James Balog, Martin Schoeller, David Guttenfelder, Abelardo Morell and Joel Sartore.