Category: Latest Travel News

Phuket, Thailand, January 10, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / NY24, an iconic design synonymous with Italian craftsmanship, to debut at the Thailand International Boat Show from January 9 to 12 at Phuket Yacht Haven Marina

Nerea Yacht, the Italian-based boutique nautical workshop founded by Dario Messina, known as The Tailor of the Sea for his unmatched attention to detail and personalized approach to yacht design, announces its debut at the Thailand International Boat Show.

From January 9 to 12, the event will host the Asia premiere of the NY24 Bit of Blue, the deluxe version of Nerea’s iconic NY24.

Every Nerea Yacht is a true epitome of luxury, crafted entirely by hand and in-house, with no production line. Under the direct supervision of Dario Messina, the yachts are meticulously crafted by a team of skilled artisans, ensuring unparalleled attention to detail. This bespoke approach allows Nerea Yacht to offer a level of customization that no other manufacturer can match, creating a truly unique vessel tailored to the discerning owner.

The NY24 Bit of Blue exemplifies Nerea’s commitment to luxury, with clean, timeless lines and refined details. Thanks to the careful selection of materials and innovative design, Nerea Yachts deliver high functionality and ease of use, while offering a level of exclusivity that reflects the brand’s dedication to craftsmanship and individuality.

 “We are excited to present our NY24 Deluxe model to the Asian audience, and we hope it generates the same enthusiasm it has in Italy and Europe, where it has seen recent sales and deliveries, including the NY24 in its LIMO version,” comments Dario Messina, Founder of Nerea Yacht. “Since its inception, Nerea Yacht has demonstrated bold commitment, investing in our facility near Fano in Italy’s Marche region, and in research, design, and development. This dedication is reflected in the boats we’ve recently delivered.” Messina adds: “We prioritize the use of cutting-edge, eco-sustainable materials and are actively testing the latest technologies to meet the needs of sea enthusiasts seeking a more conscious yachting experience, aligning with our artisanal approach.”

Designed by Italian designers Alessio Battistini and Davide Bernardini of studio ideaeITALIA, the NY24 range offers a blend of contemporary design, elegant finishes, and generous space to cater to sophisticated owners looking for a compact yet striking yacht.

The NY24 Bit of Blue boasts a palette of warm, elegant colors that harmonize with the natural teak deck. A refined pearl blue envelops the hull and superstructure, while the eco-leather outer cushions are finished in a distinct Terra di Siena hue. The same eco-friendly leather upholsters cabin elements, such as the sofa backrest and the ceiling’s central band, paired with a light, silky fabric chosen for the seat cushions. Interior finishes feature Oltremateria, an eco-friendly, fireproof, breathable oil-mortar that’s recyclable and free from toxic substances, aligning perfectly with Nerea Yacht’s craftsmanship values. With outstanding seaworthiness, the NY24 is a versatile luxury vessel. Its shallow draft allows access to secluded bays and inlets, while the standard inboard propulsion offers impressive performance with a top speed of 38 knots and a comfortable, economical cruising speed of 28 knots. Attention to detail extends to every element: the anchor, when not in use, is stowed within a fold-out nose shielded by stainless steel, and is electromechanically operated from the bridge. Notably, the NY24 is trailerable, enabling owners to transport their yacht for coastal or lakeside vacations without special permits.

The NY24 Bit of Blue also features advanced technology, with integrated home automation allowing all control systems to be managed from a touch display on the bridge, with commands accessible via tablet or smartphone—putting everything just a click away.

Supporting Nerea Yacht in promoting this new gem is MarineXplorer Co. Ltd., the ideal partner for effective dealership and representation in the region.

“I am thrilled to partner with Mr. Dario Messina and Nerea Yacht, a brand renowned for its innovative craftsmanship and Italian luxury,” said Mr. Chanyo Manakulsawasdi, MarineXplorer’s CEO & Founder.  “This collaboration marks an exciting milestone as Nerea Yacht makes its Thailand debut of NY24 Bit of Blue offering discerning yacht enthusiasts unparalleled design and performance. MarineXplorer is committed to bringing the essence of Italian elegance and sophistication to Thailand and the region, setting new standards of luxury boating experiences.”

ABOUT NY24 DELUXE “BIT OF BLUE”

The heart of the boat is the amidships living area, featuring a comfortable convertible dinette. The table can fold down to expand the relaxation area, increasing the sunbathing space already available aft. The cockpit can be equipped with two drawer fridges, a foldaway sink, and a hob, offering everything needed for total comfort and relaxation on board.

A spacious swim platform and the three-level transom design provide easy access in and out of the water, while an electrically-operated transom hatch simplifies engine inspection in the engine room. The entire deck, from the stern platform to the bow, as well as the steps leading to the cabin, are finished in high-quality teak, adding a touch of classic elegance to the boat’s contemporary style.

Sun protection is also thoughtfully designed: a retractable awning covers the entire living area during the hottest hours and, when not in use, stores neatly in a dedicated compartment. The carbon poles are conveniently housed in two deck pockets, easily accessible from the cockpit.

Thanks to careful design proportions, the NY24 boasts comfortable and well-utilized interior spaces for an almost 8-meter vessel, exceeding the typical spaciousness of competitors in this size range. Below deck, the NY24 offers a cozy cabin with a large sofa that converts into a double bed and includes a concealed toilet compartment, ensuring a comfortable stay on board both day and night. Additional comfort is provided by ample stowage, an audio-video system, and abundant natural light from two long side windows. A central tambour with two sliding smoked glass doors allows easy, comfortable access to the cabin.

The design process extended beyond aesthetics to include technical refinements: the ‘special V’ hull, with an 18.5° deadrise and lateral planing supports, provides excellent stability when moored or at anchor. The increased waterline surface area allows a smooth and fast entry into planing, a gentle transition over waves, and a secure ride, even in rough seas.

About NEREA YACHT

Nerea Yacht is an Italian shipyard founded on the well-established experience, skills and genius of Dario Messina, with a 20-year high-level nautical and industrial background.

Nerea Yacht is the fruit of passionate research, love for the sea, for the Italian style and the desire to produce boats as if they were works of art, a concentrate of unparalleled style, class and performance.

Nerea boats are produced in the Nerea Yacht shipy­­ards, near Fano. This area, the Marches region, that boasts one of the world’s most highly rated nautical supply chains with highly specialized workers, a fertile place then for those who, like Mr. Messina, The Tailor of the Sea,  have decided to devote themselves to the realization of their dream: give life to a “boat boutique,” a true workshop of the sea where each new boat becomes a unique piece. Nerea Yacht fully enters the luxury yachting scene, helping to nurture and export Italian creativity and expertise around the world.

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Pattaya, Thailand, January 8, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / A hospitality veteran with three decades of industry experience in Asia and Europe, Javier Gimeno, will take charge of the new Meliá Pattaya Hotel.

The 234-room and suite hotel with expansive sea views is scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2025 in the heart of vibrant Pattaya, a short drive from Bangkok on the Gulf of Thailand’s scenic east coast.

He joins Meliá Pattaya Hotel after working in senior management roles with Marriott International for more than a decade. Most recently, he was the cluster general manager with Marriott & Four Points by Sheraton Tianjin National Convention and Exhibition Centre in Tianjin, China.

He started his career in the mid-90s in his native Spain as a bellman at the Hilton Barcelona, and then held roles in guest services and operations departments at hotels in Barcelona and Andorra. His work in Asia goes back to 2000 where he worked in Shanghai before becoming a general manager with Barceló Hotels & Resorts in Davao, The Philippines, in 2002. His career has also taken him to Hong Kong and Malaysia.

“Javier’s extraordinary leadership skills and rich and diversified experience in opening and managing properties in Asia and key bleisure destinations like Barcelona place him in excellent stead to take charge of Meliá Pattaya Hotel, following the successful launches of Meliá Koh Samui, Meliá Phuket Mai Khao, Meliá Chiang Mai and INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit in Thailand,” said Ignacio Martin, Managing Director Asia Pacific at Meliá Hotels International. “A prime coastal destination situated so close to Bangkok, Pattaya is an excellent choice for holidays as well as meetings and events. As one of the leading companies in resort hotels worldwide, Meliá Hotels International is launching a bleisure hotel that not only fits perfectly with the destination but also redefines it.”

“My team and I are looking forward to unveiling this flagship Meliá Hotels International hotel underscored by Meliá’s warm Spanish hospitality, distinctive passion for service and focus on the customer’s wellbeing,” added Mr Gimeno. “Our hotel makes for the quintessential urban resort thanks to its host of facilities suited to leisure and business travellers alike including a rooftop restaurant that features a sky bar, a beach club, executive lounge, YHI Spa, Kidsdom kids club, swimming pool, ballroom, inspiring collection of meeting spaces and more.”

About Asset World Corp Public Company Limited

Asset World Corp Public Company Limited (AWC) is Thailand’s leading integrated lifestyle real estate group and a member of TCC Group, with the focus on hospitality, lifestyle destinations, and commercial workspaces. Driven by the philosophy of “Building a Better Future,” AWC strives to grow and expand beyond the norms with a diverse array of quality projects, providing responsible and sustainable solutions for all our stakeholders. The company has two main businesses. Hospitality business managed by top hotel executives of world-renowned hotel brands such as Marriott, The Luxury Collection, Okura, Banyan Tree, Hilton, Sheraton, and Melia, and Commercial properties whose projects include 1) Retail and Wholesale such as lifestyle travel destinations, community shopping malls, community markets, and wholesale business real estate. Popular real estate projects consist of Asiatique the Riverfront Destination, Gateway at Bangsue, AEC FOOD WHOLESALE PRATUNAM, and Tawanna Bangkapi, and 2) Commercial buildings including the famous ‘The Empire’ and Athenee Tower located in Bangkok’s central business district. AWC is committed to integrating its sustainability strategy in every part of its operations to create long-term sustainable value for all stakeholders. The sustainability strategy consists of three key pillars: Better Planet, Better People and Better Prosperity, while the framework has created numerous long-term initiatives including the ReConcept, The GALLERY and other projects.

About Meliá Hotels & Resorts

Meliá has 125 hotels in Europe (56), America (18), Cuba (16), Africa (5) and Asia (30). We are present in 32 countries and currently have 21 hotels under development in 11 countries. At Meliá Hotels & Resorts, we stand out for our unique Spanish style in the hospitality industry and for our warmth, closeness and passion for service. This means that we offer our guests a unique wellness experience. Our Spanish warmth and spontaneity are part of our Mediterranean roots and are always present in the Meliá experience. An experience that is enriched by providing thoughtful extra services. Paying attention to the smallest details and providing personalized experiences for each guest. How do we interpret wellness in the MELIÁ brand? We see wellness from an innovative perspective. It is not wellness applied only to nutrition or wellness services, it is 360º wellness. The wellness we want to convey is global. You can find it in all aspects of the brand from different perspectives: physical wellness, spiritual wellness, leisure wellness, social wellness, occupational wellness, environmental wellness, financial wellness and nutritional wellness.

About Meliá Hotels International 

Founded in 1956 in Palma de Mallorca (Spain), Meliá Hotels International has more than 400 hotels open or in the process of opening, in more than 40 countries, and a portfolio of nine brands: Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts, ME by Meliá, The Meliá Collection, Paradisus by Meliá, Meliá Hotels & Resorts, ZEL, INNSiDE by Meliá, Sol by Meliá, and Affiliated by Meliá. The Company is one of the world’s leading hotel chains in the leisure segment and its experience in this area has allowed it to consolidate itself in the growing market of urban hotels inspired by leisure. Its commitment to responsible tourism has led it to be recognised as the most sustainable European hotel company in the world (chosen as “Sustainability Yearbook Member” in 2024 by S&P Global), as well as being a “Top Employer 2024” brand in Spain, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Italy, Germany, France and Vietnam.

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Danang, Vietnam, January 8, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / All Seasons Buffet Danang has launched Vietnamese beach city Danang’s first-ever unlimited lobster buffet, brimming with fresh and locally-sourced lobster.

The restaurant, which opened in May this year at 193 Nguyen Van Thoai under the umbrella of Viet Deli, offers four indulgent dining experiences underscored by local, sustainably produced seafood.

The restaurant’s crème de la crème dining option is the ‘Unlimited lobster and all-you-can eat seafood’ experience priced at 1.55 million VND (USD 61) per person. Replete with crab, shrimp, langoustine, oysters, red snapper, clam, mussels, squid, octopus and more, the seafood buffet is 1.05 million VND (USD 41) paired with a whole lobster and 850,000 VND (USD 33.50) with a half lobster per person. The all-you-can-eat seafood experience is 700,000 VND (USD 27.50).

The ‘Chilled All Seasons seafood tower’, ‘Lobster surf and turf’, ‘Grilled lobster with the finest Ly Son garlic and butter’, ‘Wok-fried lobster with Hoi An chili sauce’ and ‘Baked lobster with melted cheese and truffle oil’ are among the restaurant’s signature dishes.

“Every season is seafood season here at All Seasons Buffet Danang, where we are breaking new ground in Danang as the first and only restaurant to offer unlimited lobster; a foodie’s dream,” Viet Deli country general manager Nguyen Quoc Hoa said.

Floor-to-roof glass panels usher in an abundance of natural light on each floor of the remarkable three-story restaurant, which clinched ‘Asia’s Best F&B Interior Design’ in the coveted 2024 Asia Architecture Design Awards. Defined by a neutral and earthy palette, the restaurant’s airy and spacious design is accented by exposed timber beams and brickwork and underscored by matte concrete floor. The elegant décor includes solid timber tables and mid-century chairs.

The Danang Department of Tourism awarded All Seasons Buffet Danang “Certified Tourism Service Destination” status on December 12 as part of the “Danang Food Tour” campaign that includes a digital culinary map and a “culinary passport” that involves participants collecting up to 50 separate stamps from 50 culinary locations across the city.

With a Mediterranean-style design and expansive sea views, sister restaurant All Seasons Buffet Nha Trang offers an international buffet and unlimited local lobster. The restaurant is situated in Ambassador Club, Nha Trang’s largest dining and entertainment complex, amid Vietnam’s first international yacht club Ana Marina.

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Accra, Ghana, January 6, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Ghana has officially scrapped visa requirements for all African passport holders in a groundbreaking decision approved by President Nana Akufo-Addo. This bold move, announced in December, is expected to significantly ease movement across the continent, fostering intra-African connectivity and boosting Ghana’s tourism and economic growth.

Tourism Consultant Alain St.Ange, who has worked extensively across Africa, heralded the announcement as a game-changer for Ghana. “This decision by President Nana Akufo-Addo is visionary and forward-thinking. By eliminating the obstacles that visas represent, Ghana sets itself apart as a leader in facilitating travel and tourism,” said St.Ange, adding that biometric passports have rendered traditional visa systems outdated. St.Ange personally met President Akufo-Addo during a tourism event in Ghana and previously worked on tourism consultancy projects in Ghana under a World Bank initiative.

The visa-free access policy aligns with the President’s commitment made at the Africa Prosperity Dialogues a year ago, where he emphasized enhancing regional integration and promoting smoother movement across the continent. Before this decision, Ghana already provided visa-free access to citizens of 26 African nations and offered visas on arrival for travellers from 25 others. Only travellers from two African countries faced pre-entry visa requirements. “This is about building stronger ties across Africa,” President Akufo-Addo stated, noting that “Ghana’s future is tied to a united continent.”

St.Ange elaborated on the benefits of the decision, highlighting its positive impact on Ghana’s tourism industry. “When travellers are choosing between destinations, they are naturally drawn to those with fewer obstacles. Removing visa requirements demonstrates Ghana’s dedication to welcoming visitors and enhancing its tourism appeal. If visas are merely a fundraising tool, alternative solutions like levies on airfare should be considered instead.”

Ghana’s move places it alongside other African nations like Rwanda, Seychelles, Gambia, and Benin, which have implemented varying levels of visa-free or simplified access for African citizens. However, St.Ange warned against indirect entry barriers such as obligatory online applications, which he described as counterproductive.

“Tourism is an industry that promotes peace and drives economic growth for destinations that approach it wisely,” said St.Ange. “Countries burdened by fees and lacking value-for-money experiences risk long-term adverse impacts on their tourism sectors.”

By eliminating visa requirements for African passport holders, Ghana takes a major step toward regional unity and economic growth, setting a strong example for the continent. The decision highlights the nation’s commitment to fostering collaboration and promoting Africa as a thriving and interconnected region.

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Phuket, Thailand, January 6, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / Pullman Phuket Panwa Beach Resort Shares Updates on Sustainability Efforts. The waters surrounding Pullman Phuket Panwa Beach Resort are witnessing a remarkable ecological renewal. For the first time in over a decade, sea turtles and dugongs have returned to the area, drawn by the thriving seagrass beds that serve as their primary food source. This development highlights the region’s natural abundance and underscores Panwa Beach as one of Phuket’s most pristine green zones.

Aligned with its commitment to environmental sustainability, Pullman Phuket Panwa Beach Resort has implemented several impactful initiatives to preserve and restore the local marine ecosystem. One such initiative is the cultivation and planting of seagrass every three to four months, which plays a vital role in supporting marine life. Additionally, the resort is actively involved in the care and release of stingray sharks back into their natural habitats.

These efforts reflect a broader dedication to sustainable tourism, with a focus on balancing environmental conservation and visitor experience. By fostering these initiatives, Pullman Phuket Panwa Beach Resort aims to ensure that the natural beauty and biodiversity of the area can be enjoyed for generations to come.

As the resort continues to invest in these green initiatives, it invites guests and the local community to participate and learn more about preserving the marine ecosystem. Together, these actions represent a meaningful step toward a more sustainable future for Phuket and its surrounding waters.

Website: tamarindrestaurantphuket.com/ 

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Bangkok, Thailand, January 5, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Sky-high LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar, which crowns INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit, has been awarded the prestigious “Restaurants From Spain” certification for its efforts to promote authentic Spanish gastronomy.

The Spanish Institute for Foreign Trade (ICEX), an agency of the Spanish Ministry of Industry, Tourism and Trade behind “Restaurants from Spain”, said the certification was designed to establish quality standards and criteria for consumers who look for not only quality Spanish cuisine but authentic quality Spanish cuisine.

ICEX recognises and supports restaurants around the globe focused on authentic cuisine and produce from Spain, and in turn Spanish culture, guaranteeing a level of quality of these establishments. The certification is awarded following a stringent selection process by a joint committee composed of official institutions and sectoral associations strongly linked to gastronomy, such as the Royal Academy of Gastronomy, the Ministry of Agriculture, FACYRE, the Regulatory Council for Sherry Wines, ANFACO, INTERPORC, the Spanish Wine Federation, the REPSOL Guide and the Ministry of Tourism of Castilla La Mancha.

Commanding the hotel’s two upper-most floors, the 33^rd and 34^th levels, with panoramic views of the Bangkok skyline, LUZ has quickly gained a reputation as “the place to be” since its September 15, 2023 debut. LUZ offers authentic Spanish tapas, wines, beer on tap, cocktails, signature sangrias, spirits, mocktails, spirits and more. In a spectacle unlike any other in Bangkok, diners on the 33^rd floor peer into the bottom of the hotel’s 34^th floor infinity pool.

Crafted by INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit’s Spanish Chef de Cuisine, Madrid-born Juan Ignacio García Racionero, who has honed his craft in some of Spain’s top kitchens, the menu takes diners on a culinary crusade through Spain, with a dynamic variety of local Thai ingredients in the mix too.

‘Gilda de Pulpo’ grilled octopus, olives, pickled paprika and olive oil, ‘Sardine Ahumada Con Lima’ smoked sardine with lime and avocado cream, ‘Gambas Al Ajillo’ sauteed prawns with chilli, garlic and olive oil, and ‘Ensalada De Salmorejo Burrata’ burrata with cold tomato creamy soup, anchovy and avocado are among ‘LUZ Tapas’ highlights.

Dishes already proving popular in the ‘Chef’s Tapas Selection’ include ‘LUZ Salmon’ Norwegian salmon with mango-passionfruit dressing and ‘Tuna Taki Taki Rumba’ Akani tuna with citrus dressing. ‘LUZ Signature’ delights include ‘Carrilleras de Cerdo Iberico’ braised Iberian pork cheek with carrots and cumin puree, ‘Pulpo a la Parrilla’ grilled octopus with paprika mashed potatoes and mango, and ‘Entrecot de ‘Ribeye’’ 300g Australian ribeye steak with layered potatoes and salsa de carne.

“We may be halfway across the world from Spain here in Bangkok yet we are honoured to be recognised as an authentic world ambassador of Spanish cuisine and for offering Spain on a plate,” Racionero said. “I am inspired to bring authentic Spanish flavours to the forefront and celebrate my native Spain’s rich culinary heritage, all the while applying a novel twist to enhance the new menu’s appeal to the local palate.”

“One of my favourite dishes is our ‘Pulpo a la Parrilla’. The addition of mango, chilli and smoked paprika purée creates a contrast of sweet, salty, and spicy flavours, offering a fresh take on the traditional Spanish recipe. Mango and chilli cater to the local palate and add unique flavours to the classic ingredients; all while staying true to the dish’s Spanish roots.”

Before joining INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit, the Madrid-born chef worked at one Michelin-starred Saddle as well as Diverxo, recognized in the top three ‘World’s 50 Best Restaurants’ in 2023, and acclaimed restaurants El Jardin De La Marquina and Montellen.

INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit is the newest member of an eclectic collection of urban and beach INNSiDE hotels — in 14 different countries across Asia, Europe, and the Americas — designed for those with curious minds who have a fluid lifestyle when it comes to work and leisure.

About Meliá Hotels International

Founded in 1956 in Palma de Mallorca (Spain), Meliá Hotels International has more than 400 hotels open or in the process of opening, in more than 40 countries, and a portfolio of nine brands: Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts, ME by Meliá, The Meliá Collection, Paradisus by Meliá, Meliá Hotels & Resorts, ZEL, INNSiDE by Meliá, Sol by Meliá, and Affiliated by Meliá. The Company is one of the world’s leading hotel chains in the leisure segment and its experience in this area has allowed it to consolidate itself in the growing market of urban hotels inspired by leisure. Its commitment to responsible tourism has led it to be recognised as the most sustainable European hotel company in the world (chosen as “Sustainability Yearbook Member” in 2024 by S&P Global), as well as being a “Top Employer 2024” brand in Spain, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Italy, Germany, France and Vietnam.

About INNSiDE by Meliá

INNSiDE is a collection of unique urban and beach hotels designed for those with curious minds and fluid lives. Always true to their destination, they give guests the freedom to connect or disconnect among an independent community of like-minded travellers.

INNSiDE provides guests with all the everyday essentials and extra-special details to make their stay all the more unique. From in-room comforts to the inspiring Big Idea Space, Open Living Lounges, and fitness studios, we allow guests to feel more-than-at-home.

Sustainability is also packed into all the little details: every room is equipped with paper and plastic-free collateral and complimentary organic cosmetics. INNSiDE celebrates the culture of each of its locations with an events calendar, handy city guides for guests, and by spotlighting a local artist’s work across the hotel walls and onto merchandise and staff uniforms.

There are currently 38 INNSiDE by Meliá properties worldwide, with the brand continuing to expand its global footprint. All properties are located in the best lifestyle neighbourhood travel destinations. Some of them are Spain (Madrid, Mallorca, Ibiza, Fuerteventura, Zaragoza), United Kingdom (Liverpool, Newcastle, Manchester), United States (New York, Lima), Germany (Berlin, Bremen, Frankfurt, Munich, Dresden, Düsseldorf, Aachen, Leipzig, Hamburg) Czech Republic (Prague), France (Paris), Italy (Milano), China (Zhengzhou), Indonesia (Yogyakarta), Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur) and Netherlands (Amsterdam).

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