Why tourism is booming in this small European country

San Marino is a landlocked microstate tucked away in northern Italy and the world's oldest-surviving sovereign state. It also happens to be one of Europe's top-growing travel location. Don't be fooled by the 61 sq km (23.6 sq mi) tiny-sized country either: this small place has plenty to offer. Click through the gallery to learn about Europe's popular vacation hot spot.

US to offer Boeing 'sweetheart deal', lawyer says

The deal includes a fine, three years of probation and safety audits, according to a lawyer representing the victims of two fatal Boeing 737 Max crashes

How to make your outdoor space more private

With the warmer weather, it's natural that we wish to enjoy our outdoor spaces. What we don't appreciate, however, are the prying eyes of neighbors and strangers alike. Making sure your patio, balcony, or backyard has enough privacy is key to creating a relaxing outdoor space. Whether you live in a dense urban area, the suburbs with neighbors on the other side of the fence, or even in a more secluded area in the countryside, your outdoor space should feel like an undisturbed oasis. So, how do you create your own hidden sanctuary? From plants to privacy screens and outdoor curtains, click on for a range of ideas that can help you out!

President Marcos joins Megaworld in opening 'PH's biggest hotel'

Property giant Megaworld, the country's largest hotel developer with over 7,000 hotel rooms in its portfolio, has formally opened the Philippines' biggest hotel development to date: the 1,530-room Grand Westside Hotel. Inaugurated by no less than President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the 19-story, two-tower Grand Westside Hotel features 1,530 rooms within the rising 'Broadway of Asia.' "My heartfelt congratulations to all the hardworking members and...

Travelodge begins recruitment drive to fill more than 300 jobs across business

The company, which operates more than 600 hotels across the UK, Ireland and Spain, employing some 13,000 people, is looking to hire full- and part-time employees

Foyle Maritime Festival shows 'the city has changed for the better'

Thousands of people are in Londonderry this weekend for a celebration of the city’s seafaring heritage. The Foyle Maritime Festival, which got under way on Thursday along the city's riverfront, runs until Sunday evening. Lindsay Nelis and her family visited from Bangor in County Down. Lindsay, whose husband is originally from Derry, said she couldn...

Sheraton Celebrates the Opening of its 100th Hotel in Greater China with the Debut of Sheraton Lanzhou Anning

The new hotel made its debut in the city of the Yellow River with refreshing design, embodying the brand spirit of "The World's Gathering Place" with vibrant energy LANZHOU, China, July 1, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott Bonvoy's global portfolio of more than 30 hotel brands, today announced the opening of Sheraton Lanzhou Anning in Lanzhou of Gansu province. The opening also marks the 100th Sheraton Hotel in...

At 192 Jonathan the tortoise is the world's oldest living land animal

Why is the Algarve known as Europe's sunlit paradise?

The Algarve, in southern Portugal, enjoys around 300 days of sunshine a year. Hot summers are tempered by cool and refreshing Atlantic Ocean breezes while winters are mild and for the most part, dry. Blessed with such an agreeable climate, it's no wonder the region is described as the country's "playground province." Indeed, as Europe's sunniest destination, the Algarve is a vacation paradise waiting to be explored. Browse the gallery and find out where to go and what to do.

4 States Retirees Are Moving to in 2024 That Aren’t Arizona or Florida

While states such as Arizona and Florida come to mind when it comes to where retirees choose to move, other states across the country are also attracting seniors for a variety of reasons. Indeed,...

Eat and pray; Celebrate the Pope’s Day

Last week we had the pleasure of dining at Txoko Asador on Esteban Street in Legaspi Village. This restaurant is still as exceptional as it was the first time I tried it prepandemic, in fact, possibly more exquisite than when it started. The meal opened with a starter of Pan Con Tomate Y Jamon, which is a brilliant concoction of tomato foam enveloped in Jamon Serrano with a touch of Iberico oil. The sweet acidity of the tomato literally bursts...

I won’t fly QR again; Nvidia on a blitz

I will not fly Qatar Airways (QR) anymore. Neither will I recommend it to anyone. It has failed multiple times to honor its commitments. The money part may matter, but the broken promises matter most. A year ago, on July 18, 2023, I arrived from Europe via Doha on QR 928. When I claimed my Rimowa luggage, I noticed that one wheel was dangling, almost totally detached. I immediately reported this to the QR office at the Ninoy Aquino International...

Kim Kardashian Spotted Jet Skiing in a Bikini During Yacht Vacation in Greece: Photo

The SKKN by Kim founder was spotted snapping selfies with a friend during an adventurous day out on the water

Ryanair passenger boards the WRONG plane

Jem Maybank, 30, arrived at Leeds Bradford Airport on Saturday to begin her short city break in France .

The most extravagant treasures ever found

Stories of treasure hunts and hidden riches have always seemed like fantasy. There have been numerous films and books that have filled our heads with the idea that wild goose chases could somehow lead to an unknown trove full of mysterious and magnificent artifacts. But some of these tales are far from fiction. Find out more about the historic discoveries of the world's most valuable treasures.

Japan imposes new fees on Mount Fuji climbers to limit tourists

By Tom Bateman FUJIYOSHIDA, Japan (Reuters) -Park rangers on Japan's sacred Mount Fuji officially started this year's climbing season about 90 minutes before sunrise on Monday, levying new trail fees and limiting hiker numbers to curb overcrowding. At 3 a.m., officials opened a newly installed gate at a station placed just over halfway up the 3,776-meter (12,388-ft) peak that is a symbol of

Mexico celebrates Pride as Costa Rica fires minister

More than 100,000 people rallied for LGBTQ rights in Mexico on Saturday, while Costa Rica's culture minister was sacked for supporting the country's own Pride March this weekend. The Mexico City march came as Pride events took place globally throughout June, with Costa Rica's rally scheduled for Sunday.

Italy's most beguiling towns and villages

Italy is a land of exceptional beauty. Blessed with an astonishingly varied landscape that encompasses snow-capped mountains, rolling pastureland, crystalline lakes, and a vast salt-laced coastline, Italy really is a land of contrast. Lending the country character is a collection of towns and villages noted for their singular locations and architectural splendor. And they are yours to explore! However, be wary of the issue of overcrowding. The city of Venice has recently announced that they will be charging an entry fee to tourists starting in 2023 to combat this very problem. The small city is interlaced with canals and narrow streets, beautiful to behold but easily overwhelmed by the millions of tourists that visit each year. Venice is the first city in the world to take this controversial step: “We are pioneers, the first city in the world to apply a measure that could be revolutionary,” said Simone Venturini, the Venice tourism chief. He hopes that the entry fee for tourists will help to offset the over-tourism that has been negatively impacting the city for years. Why not visit one of Italy's many other towns and villages instead? Click through and discover the country's most beguiling destinations.

Guests staying at £695-a-night luxury hotel and spa tell of 'chaos'

EXCLUSIVE: Visitors staying at the Estelle Manor in the leafy village of Eynsham in Oxfordshire were evacuated from their rooms just before 8am yesterday morning after a chemical spilled.

Thousands of holidays in turmoil as Gatwick suspends ALL flights

All flights have been temporarily suspended at Gatwick Airport after a British Airways flight was forced to an emergency stop on the runway.

The perks of being MoCAF

Three years in, you wouldn’t say MoCAF, the Modern and Contemporary Art Festival, is an institution; rather, it’s an evolving organism that’s flexible enough to shift directions and parameters. And it still skews more towards younger artists and buyers. “We think it would be a great thing if our audiences grew with us, and vice versa,” says MoCAF c...

Charge foreign British Museum visitors and share Elgin Marbles, former boss says

Charge foreign British Museum visitors and share Elgin Marbles, former boss says - Sir Mark Jones said that ‘some of the buildings are in a poor state’ and money is needed to repair the institution.

What's it REALLY like inside British Airways' poshest cabins? It's an £11,000 first-class seat vs an £8k business berth as we film flights between London Heathrow and New York in the carrier's top two suites to find out

On flights between Heathrow's T5 and JFK Ted Thornhill discovers a world of suites big enough for four, Champagne worth £160 ($200) a bottle and service with a sincere smile...

VinHMS Ramps Up Global Expansion with Strategic Acquisition

HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, July 1, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- VinHMS - an innovator in hospitality technology, has been actively pursuing its strategic plans for international expansion. Established in December 2018 as a member of Vingroup, VinHMS specializes in providing high-quality technology products, and aims to optimize business operations for enterprises. After 5 years of establishment, VinHMS is actively expanding its presence in the domestic...

Museum makes family tree offer to England goalkeeper

How Pickford's House in Derby became Jordan Pickford House - but only for a few moments.

The last time we traveled as a family of 6, we spent $6000. I refuse to make the same mistake this summer.

We are spending all summer locally because it's too expensive to travel. We plan free local activities, or pick a theme for the kids to explore.

Deal reached in WestJet strike but travel disruptions still expected for Canadian airline

TORONTO (AP) — Canada’s second largest airline, WestJet, has reached a deal with its mechanics to end a strike that had disrupted the travel plans of tens of thousands of passengers over the Canada Day long weekend. WestJet said late Sunday there will still be flight disruptions in the week ahead as its planes are brought back into service. In its own news release, the Airplane Mechanics Fraternal Association urged its members to return to work...

Why a guide has been slammed over videos promoting Blue Mountains

An adventure guide has been accused of promoting a dangerous walking trail at one of Australia's most popular tourist hotspots, located west of Sydney.

Discover the world's most incredible mountain paradises

In all corners of the world, there are marvelous landscapes that make up the dreams of many travelers. Often these landscapes include mountains which are natural wonders that pique most people's interest. They can be incredibly beautiful and fascinating. For climbers, reaching the peak of these mountains can be a great experience, and nature lovers can enjoy these stunning rock formations as well. Click through this gallery and let yourself be amazed by the most incredible mountain scenery in the world!

WestJet Airlines workers vow to continue strike that's led to hundreds of canceled flights

The union representing WestJet Airlines' mechanics says their strike will continue until a labor deal is reached.

Vacation time: the 12 best and 12 worst destinations for LGBTQ travelers

Spiral bids goodbye as Sofitel Manila marks last day

Spiral, the buffet restaurant at the closing Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila, has said its goodbyes. On June 29, the hotel's restaurant shared its farewell message to patrons, writing, "With a mix of gratitude and sadness, we would like to inform you that Spiral is set to embark on its final culinary [journey]." "Your laughter, your conversations, ...

Multiple crews fight derelict hotel fire in Newquay

Firefighters from across Cornwall are at the Hotel California on Pentire Crescent.

First Lady back from 3-day UAE visit

MANILA, Philippines — First Lady Liza Marcos on Sunday shared on social media her trip to the United Arab Emirates, where she is on a supposed three-day working visit to explore areas of cooperation between the Philippines and the UAE. In an instagram post, Mrs. Marcos said the Philippine delegation and the UAE government tackled areas where they could enhance cooperation, such as culture, arts and heritage. “Her Highness Sheikha Salama bint...

French Polynesia: a must on your paradise travel bucket list

Imagine scattering clusters of emeralds and sapphires across a vast carpet of turquoise and you begin to get an idea of the visual splendor that is French Polynesia. Composed of 118 geographically dispersed islands and atolls stretching over an expanse of more than 1,200 mi (2,000 km) in the South Pacific Ocean, this overseas collectivity of France spans the size of Europe. A globally renowned destination, French Polynesia is divided into five island groups: the Society Islands archipelago, composed of the Windward Islands and the Leeward Islands; the Tuamotu Archipelago; the Gambier Islands; the Marquesas Islands; and the Austral Islands. Soaring moss-green peaks and idyllic beaches define these islands, which are lapped by warm sparkling waters filled with abundant marine life. Adding texture to the ocean are numerous atolls—rings of living coral embracing shallow, crystal-clear lagoons. The Society Islands, believed to have been named by British explorer Captain James Cook during his first voyage in 1769, attract the majority of the region's visitors. The archipelago includes Tahiti, Mo'orea, Bora Bora, Raiatea, and Taha’a—islands that between them feature world-class luxury resorts, compelling cultural sites, and provide adrenaline-fueled watersports options. French Polynesia is full of surprises: the most photographed isle in the South Pacific, Motu Tapu, is here; wine, (yes, wine) is produced on one of the remote atolls; and the beautiful Tahitian pearl makes up over 50% of French Polynesia's exports. A vivid undersea world of fish, rays, sharks, and turtles greets those exploring below the blue lagoons that circle the islands. Deeper waters reveal gracious whales and playful dolphins. On land, mysterious stone carved statues stare blankly onwards, their weathered features testament to the many gods in Polynesian mythology worshiped by an ancient indigenous population. Sultry French Polynesia is a place to relax and soak in a laid-back vibe on some of the most enchanting islands on the planet. Browse through this gallery for an inspiring island-hopping excursion and some great ideas on where to go and what to see.

Prehistoric animals that still roam the Earth

Some animals seem out of place at first glance. Sometimes that can be chalked up to the limits of imagination, but other times it's because the animal in question truly is from an era so distant it might as well have taken place on an alien planet. The history of life on Earth stretches further back than the history of humanity, and the number of creatures that were around hundreds of millions of years ago that still coexist with us today might surprise you. From the usual crustacean suspects to cute and cuddly creatures with a surprisingly deep past, these animals are much more resilient than you might think. Read on to learn about some of the oldest animals that still share our world today.

America's most unlikely boom town: Wiped off the map by wildfire

Bargain hunters are swooping in on an unlikely booming town that was once completely burned to the ground in the deadliest wildfire in the state's history.

Southwest plane in terrifying near-miss at Maine airport

A Southwest Airlines Boeing 737 flying to Baltimore from Portland , Maine had a heart-stopping incident on Tuesday morning.

TV shows you didn't know were filmed in Canada

Much of the popular television scene in North America revolves around the United States, with cities like New York and Los Angeles dominating the screen. Little did you know, however, that many of your favorite shows were shot outside of the US! Click through this gallery to find out which shows—and stars—were filmed in Canada.

Summer hours are a perk small businesses can offer to workers to boost morale

NEW YORK (AP) — With summer having gotten off to a scorching start, workers across the country may be dreaming of a seaside escape or cutting out early to watch a movie in an air-conditioned theater. For some, that can be a reality. Business owners have found that offering summer hours – a reduced schedule on Fridays, usually between Memorial Day and Labor Day — can be a way to boost employee morale. Workers are able to deal with summer...

What life was like in a medieval castle

Medieval castles are the stuff of which fairy tales are made, but if you've ever visited one, you know how inhospitable they can be. Have you ever wondered what life was really like in there during the Middle Ages? Was it really that dark and miserable? How did people eat and sleep? What did castles smell of? The answer to these and many other questions are here. Click through the following gallery and find out what life was like in a medieval castle.

UTS secures its place in world top 100 rankings

SYDNEY, July 1, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The University of Technology Sydney (UTS) has climbed to the 88th spot in the QS World University Ranking, achieving a new high and securing its position as one of the world's top universities. The UTS campus sits within the thriving tech central hub in the heart of Sydney. UTS Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Andrew Parfitt, thanked the work of UTS staff, and said the impressive results reflect the...

Americans and Japanese take far less time off — but Europeans say they're more 'vacation deprived'

Some 84% of Germans and 69% of French workers said they feel "vacation deprived" even though they take the most days off work, according to an Expedia study.

Dragonflies thriving at newest nature 'hotspot'

A reserve is designated a "hotspot" for dragonflies thanks to its conservation efforts.

Creepy places in the UK that could be sets for horror films

From abandoned theme parks to to creepy castles, these derelict locations would be the perfect place to film a horror movie. Take a look through the gallery to find out more.

Nicky Zimmermann Shares Her Guide to Sydney

From ocean pools to antique shops, here’s where the Australian designer likes to visit whenever she’s back home.

Documentary recalls one of the worst plane crashes ever

La Mesa Ecopark reopens, highlights biodiversity

MANILA, Philippines — After more than four months, the La Mesa Ecopark in Quezon City – dubbed as Metro Manila’s last green frontier – finally reopened to the public yesterday. “QCitizens, the La Mesa Ecopark has finally reopened!” Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte said during the park’s reopening ceremony. “You can see around 220 species of animals and plants in the park. Watch out for other activities and facilities for paintball, wall climbing,...

Seine still too polluted for Olympics

One month before the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympics, the water quality of the Seine remains insufficient for swimming, according to new analyses by the city of Paris that were released on Friday. The poor water quality is attributed to unfavourable hydrological conditions: rain, high water levels, low sunlight, low temperatures and pollution upstream. The abnormally high level of the Seine has already forced the rehearsal of the...

The deadliest places in the world

There are some places in the world that are so inhospitable that spending just a short period of time there can have serious implications for your health. There are also places where the local inhabitants live in constant danger from threats which are both natural and man-made. From the Arctic to the Pacific Ocean, here are some of the deadliest places in the world. Click through the gallery to see more.