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Tag: curacao

  • White House Orders U.S. Forces Focus on ‘Quarantine’ of Venezuela

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    WASHINGTON, Dec ‌24 (Reuters) – ​The ‌White House has ​ordered ‍U.S. military forces ​to ​focus ⁠almost exclusively on enforcing the “quarantine” of Venezuela, ‌a U.S. official ​told Reuters ‌on ‍Wednesday.

    “While military ⁠options still exist the focus is to ​first use economic pressure by enforcing sanctions to reach the outcome the White House is looking,” ​the official said.

    (Reporting by Steve Holland, ​editing by Michelle Nichols)

    Copyright 2025 Thomson Reuters.

    Photos You Should See – December 2025

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    Reuters

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  • Curaçao makes history as smallest-ever nation to qualify for World Cup

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    Curaçao and Haiti have defied the odds to secure historic qualifying berths for next year’s FIFA World Cup. 

    The two countries clinched top spots in their respective groups to advance from the North and Central American and Caribbean (CONCACAF) region to the 48-team finals in Canada, Mexico and the US.

    Haiti beat Nicaragua 2-0 in Curaçao, where it has been forced to play its home fixtures because of the strife in its country, to finish top of Group C.

    Curaçao held Jamaica to a goalless draw away to stay one point ahead of its hosts at the top of Group B, despite being without veteran Dutch coach Dick Advocaat, who returned to Europe at the weekend for family reasons.

    A self-governing part of the Netherlands with a population of 156,000, the Caribbean island nation is easily the least populous country to go to the World Cup, beating the previous record held by Iceland with its 350,000 inhabitants.

    Curacao lived dangerously in Kingston, where Jamaica was awarded a last-gasp penalty 4 minutes into stoppage time only for the referee to change his decision after consulting VAR.

    Jamaica, coached by former England manager Steve McClaren, needed a win to qualify but hit the woodwork three times in the second half and Curacao’s team, made up entirely of players born in the Netherlands with Antillean roots, held out to secure a World Cup debut.

    Haiti’s qualification was remarkable given that armed gangs have taken control of almost all of the capital, Port-au-Prince, in a conflict that has forced some 1.3 million people from their homes and fuelled famine-level hunger.

    The levels of danger in Haiti are such that coach Sébastien Migne has not been there since being appointed 18 months ago but the Frenchman has nevertheless managed to engineer a fairytale qualification — the country’s second after a first appearance in 1974.

    Haiti started the final round of fixtures on Tuesday behind Honduras on goal difference, but goals from Louicious Deedson and Ruben Providence lifted it to 11 points, while Honduras drew 0-0 away at Costa Rica and finished on nine.

    Panama has also booked a ticket after romping to a 3-0 win over El Salvador to also top its group.

    “Los Canaleros” went ahead early after a thunderous strike from wingback Cesar Blackman, with their second coming from the penalty spot courtesy of Eric Davis, who was in the squad when Panama made its only previous World Cup appearance in 2018.

    Substitute Jose Luis Rodriguez added a third late in the game.

    Suriname had been ahead of Panama on goal difference before the start of Tuesday’s games but lost 3-1 in Guatemala.

    However, a late own goal kept it in World Cup contention as it will go, along with Jamaica, to the inter-confederation play-off tournament in March.

    There, the two CONCACAF teams will be matched against Bolivia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Iraq, and New Caledonia. The six teams will be vying for two spots at the finals.

    Reuters/ABC

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  • Marriott Bonvoy Resorts Foster Wellness Through Outdoors

    Marriott Bonvoy Resorts Foster Wellness Through Outdoors

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    Marriott Bonvoy Resorts are fostering wellness through the outdoors. Marriott International properties across the Caribbean provide a range of outdoor activities designed to enhance wellness and rejuvenate the spirit.

    Guests can enjoy the benefits of fresh air and natural surroundings while engaging in activities like yoga, guided snorkeling tours, and invigorating rounds of golf.

    These experiences not only promote physical health but also foster mental well-being, allowing visitors to connect with nature and find balance. Embark on a refreshing vacation at these renowned hotels and resorts, where wellness and adventure go hand in hand:

    Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris CasinoThe Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino invites guests to embrace the healing power of nature through its desert bathing experience. This curated wellness offering encourages relaxation and mindfulness, while boosting mood and immunity. Guests can enjoy a healthy picnic basket for two, complete with nutritious snacks, along with transportation to and from the property. The experience also includes a yoga mat for grounding practices and a soothing massage for two, allowing couples to fully immerse themselves in the tranquility of their surroundings.
    Email to book this luxurious, natural experience.

    The Ritz Carlton, St. ThomasThe Ritz Carlton, St. Thomas encourages guests to embrace the latest wellness trends through embarking on an unforgettable island-hopping journey through the British and U.S. Virgin Islands aboard the luxurious 65-foot catamaran, Lady Lynsey II. Just steps from the beach at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas, the adventure begins with a sail to lush St. John, where guests can snorkel in the vibrant waters of Trunk Bay, promoting physical fitness and mindfulness in nature. Then, unwind at the tranquil Maho Bay, an ideal spot for relaxation and digital detox. Alternatively, travelers can visit lively Jost Van Dyke, renowned for its Soggy Dollar Bar, where they can sip on a Painkiller while basking on the stunning beach – perfect for social wellness and connection. Guests should not miss the breathtaking Baths of Virgin Gorda, celebrated for their unique rock formations and crystal-clear waters, which offer a natural setting for reflection and rejuvenation. After a day of exploration, guests can return to The Ritz-Carlton to unwind in a private poolside cabana, savoring refreshing cocktails and breathtaking sunset views—all while indulging in the luxury and personalized service that enhance their wellness journey.

    Sheraton Puerto Rico Resort & CasinoThe Sheraton Puerto Rico Resort & Casino invites guests to rejuvenate their spirits with a guided kayak tour of the Bio Bay, one of the island’s three enchanting bioluminescent bays. The possibility of seeing bioluminescence is trending among vacationers, and booking through the property’s tour desk allows guests to experience the magic of paddling through the glowing waters of Fajardo, PR, while connecting with nature. This two-hour adventure not only promotes physical activity and cardiovascular health but also offers a serene escape from daily life through its meditative qualities. With round-trip transportation included, guests can fully immerse themselves in this unique and revitalizing experience.

    The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Puerto Rico: The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort has the island’s most challenging golf course, attracting both seasoned golfers and beginners alike. Set against breathtaking scenery, this course provides couples with a perfect opportunity to bond while learning the game together. Beyond just a sport, golfing here serves as a meditative practice, allowing players to focus on their swings and breathe in the refreshing coastal air. This unique blend of physical fitness and mindful relaxation makes the golfing experience at Bahia Beach truly therapeutic.

    The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman: The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman invites guests to embark on a Botanical Tour, an enchanting experience that allows them to stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens featuring a variety of native plants and exotic species. As guests wander along the paths, they can breathe in the fragrant aromas and enjoy the serene ambiance of this meticulously curated space. The hotel provides a detailed brochure to guide visitors on a self-led tour. This elegantly crafted resource offers insightful information about the plant life encountered along the way, enriching the experience with educational content that enhances appreciation for the island’s botanical diversity.

    JW Marriott St. Maarten Beach Resort and Spa: At the JW Marriott St. Maarten Beach Resort and Spa, guests can experience a rejuvenating escape amidst lush greenery and white sandy beaches. The resort offers a variety of outdoor wellness-focused activities, including water aerobics and daily beachside yoga, perfect for enhancing both physical fitness and mental clarity. Snorkeling and water trampolining provide more vigorous physical fitness, and both are currently popular outdoor activities. With a private swimmable beach for relaxation and reflection, this island getaway is designed to nourish the body and soul.

    Curacao Marriott Beach ResortThe Curacao Marriott Beach Resort is a lesser-known gem, offering the perfect backdrop for a refreshing family vacation. With a daily calendar filled with wellness-focused events and activities, guests can engage in games, aquarobics, yoga, and tennis, all designed to produce physical fitness and family bonding. Individual sports, live entertainment, and meals are also available throughout the day in open-air facilities. The Curacao Marriott Beach Resort is adopting trending outdoor wellness activities – beginning October 8, guided snorkeling sessions will allow families to explore vibrant underwater ecosystems, while kayaking and jet skiing offer additional opportunities for adventure and exercise. For those seeking more excitement, ATV tours, buggy excursions, catamaran trips and swimming with dolphins enhance the wellness journey by encouraging connection with nature and loved ones.

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  • Curacao Gambling Reform Faces New Challenge

    Curacao Gambling Reform Faces New Challenge

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    A proposed bill, seeing to implement significant changes to the gambling regulation in Curacao is currently being considered by the country’s parliament. Labeled the National Ordinance on Game of Chance (LOK), the new regulations are expected to strengthen the protection for the players and ensure the gambling sector aligns with the high standards established in major jurisdictions across the globe.

    Despite the robust changes under LOK, not everyone agrees that the proposal’s text is ready for passage. After it was reviewed by the island’s Independent Advisory Body last week, the proposal raised more questions than ever before.

    The Advisory Body released its public opinion on the topic, a staggering document with nearly 30,000 words, highlighting a wide range of concerns over LOK’s current text. One major issue described by the Body revolves around the proposed gambling legislation’s compliance with the Financial Action Task Force’s (FATF) requirements for anti-money laundering (AML).

    According to the Advisory Body, LOK doesn’t explain sufficiently the extent of its compliance with those regulations. “In that context, it is also desirable that the explanatory memorandum provides an explanation of the extent to which the design complies with the FATF Recommendations,” wrote the Body.

    However, the explanatory memorandum does not provide an explanation of the extent to which the design complies with the National Package. Curacao was also evaluated in 2012 by the Financial Action Task Force, resulting in a five-year follow-up procedure to address Curacao’s shortcomings in combating money laundering. and eliminate terrorist financing,

    reads the position released by the Advisory Body

    MP Flags Further LOK Issues

    Besides the Body’s position, members of the country’s parliament also flagged their concerns about the National Ordinance on Game of Chance. As announced by the Antillean Dagblad, Steven Martina MP, joined the debate about the upcoming changes to the regulated gambling sector. One of the important components of the new legislation is the development of a new supervisory body in charge of gambling, the Curacao Gaming Authority.

    While that sounds well, Martina was concerned that the new Gaming Authority was formed as a foundation. According to the MP, founded in such a way, the Authority won’t be immune from potential influence from the political sector.

    With the start of the new year, online casinos licensed under the LOK must display a special digital seal. This effort seeks to boost transparency for the sector while at the same time, allowing those operators to prove their licensed status. The new digital seal needs to appear on the digital platforms of online casinos licensed under the LOK in Curacao.

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    Jerome García

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