Khao Lak is a hidden paradise that offers a blend of tropical landscapes, beaches, and a sense of luxurious seclusion. This picturesque destination might remind you of the dreamy settings in the hit TV series ‘White Lotus,’ where each moment feels like a perfectly curated escape from reality. Here’s how you can experience Khao Lak. Khao Lak is a hidden paradise that offers a blend of tropical landscapes, beaches, and a sense of luxurious seclusion. This picturesque destination might remind you of the dreamy settings in the hit TV series ‘White Lotus,’ where each moment feels like a perfectly curated escape from reality. Here’s how you can experience Khao Lak. Staying at the JW Marriott Imagine waking up to the gentle sound of waves crashing against the shore, with the sun casting a golden glow over your private villa. The JW Marriott in Khao Lak is the epitome of luxury, where every detail is designed to make you feel like a VIP. From the stunning beachfront views to the meticulously landscaped gardens, this resort is a sanctuary of peace and comfort. The rooms are a blend of modern elegance and traditional Thai aesthetics, with spacious balconies overlooking the ocean or the resort’s pools. The service here is impeccable, echoing the kind of personalized attention you’d expect in ‘White Lotus.’ Whether you’re indulging in a spa treatment, enjoying a gourmet meal at one of the resort’s fine dining establishments, or simply lounging by the infinity pool, every moment at the JW Marriott is a testament to the art of relaxation. Exploring the Little Amazon For those who seek a touch of adventure, the Little Amazon in Takuapa is a must-visit. This hidden gem, just a short drive from Khao Lak, is a world away from the typical tourist trails. The Little Amazon is a maze of mangrove forests, where ancient banyan trees stretch their roots into the water, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. A guided tour through this forest is like stepping into a nature documentary. As you glide through the narrow waterways on a traditional longtail boat, keep your eyes peeled for exotic wildlife. Monkeys, snakes, and a plethora of bird species call this place home. The air is filled with the gorgeous birdsong, and the sunlight filtering through the dense canopy creates an almost surreal, dreamlike setting. The Tsunami Museum Khao Lak is also a place with a profound history. The area was severely affected by the 2004 tsunami, and the Tsunami Museum stands as a reminder of this tragic event. Visiting the museum offers a moving experience, providing insights into the devastating impact of the tsunami and the resilience of the local community. Exhibits include personal stories, photographs, and artifacts that capture the human side of this natural disaster, reminding us of the strength and solidarity that emerged in its aftermath. The ‘White Lotus’ Vibe Staying in Khao Lak, especially at the JW Marriott , really does evoke the same exclusive vibe as the ‘White Lotus’ resort. It’s a place where luxury meets nature, where every moment is designed to offer a sense of peace and wonder. The high-end amenities available alongside natural beauty create a unique atmosphere – both sophisticated and grounding. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or paddling through the Little Amazon, Khao Lak is a perfect blend of luxury and adventure.

If you’re craving a getaway that combines luxury, relaxation, and a dash of foodie adventure, look no further than the First World Hotel. Located in Hangzhou, China, this hidden gem offers a retreat like no other, where hot springs are deliciously reimagined with a sizzling hotpot twist. If you’re craving a getaway that combines luxury, relaxation, and a dash of foodie adventure, look no further than the First World Hotel. Located in Hangzhou, China, this hidden gem offers a retreat like no other, where hot springs are deliciously reimagined with a sizzling hotpot twist. Located close to the centre of Hangzhou, the First World Hotel is a sanctuary for those looking to unwind and reconnect with nature in the heart of the city. The mineral-rich hot springs here are known for their healing properties, offering a perfect remedy for sore muscles and stressed minds. The Hotpot…Hot Springs? Prepare to be amazed by the hotels signature attraction: the hotpot hot spring experience. Picture this—sinking into a hot spring pool where the soothing waters are infused with…real Sichuan hotpot ingredients. Yes, you read that right! Imagine floating among fresh vegetables and aromatic spices like Sichuan peppercorns, fiery red chilies, garlic, and ginger. Well, at First World Hotel , you don’t need to imagine – you can really visit, and eat, in their hot springs! This innovative concept divided the 5-metre hot spring pool into compartments resembling a hot pot, with various fruits and vegetables such as apples, bananas, corn, peppers, and lettuce floating in the water. The ‘Yuan Yang (鸳鸯) Hotpot’ lets visitors soak in a pot half-filled with chilli peppers, and the other half with lettuce and mushrooms. You can also enjoy an edible hotpot while soaking in the sauna — talk about a hotpot-ception. 9 Ingredient Pool For added variety, First World Hotel also has a 9-ingredient hotpot pool filled with chilli peppers, mushroom, corn, as well as other popular ingredients! Last year, the hotel invited guests born in the Year of the Pig to take a dip for free to commemorate the Lunar New Year. The general consensus? People love it. Reviews read “You can enjoy various hot springs at a reasonable price,” “The hot pot hot spring is fun starting from its visuals,” “It feels like I’ve become a real hot pot ingredient,” “I thought it would be strange at first, but it’s fun,” and “There are so many types of hot springs, perfect for relieving fatigue”. It’s clear to see that this strange experience is a hit amongst those brave enough to try it. Craving your own hotpot experience? We don’t blame you, it does look tasty! A night at First World Hotel starts at €100. If you want to try the hot springs out for yourself and check their availability, head to their website or the  Tripadvisor  page.

Noah Kahan has announced his return to Dublin with two headline shows at 3Arena this November, marking one of the most anticipated live music events of the year. The Vermont-born artist will take to the stage on November 21st and 22nd , following his last Irish performance at Marlay Park in July, where he played to a packed crowd. Ticket details and tour information Tickets for the Dublin dates are expected to sell quickly, with multiple opportunities for fans to secure seats: Artist pre-sale: April 15th at 10:00am (local time) General sale: April 17th at 10:00am The shows form part of his upcoming “The Great Divide World Tour” , which will see Kahan perform arena dates across Australia, New Zealand, the UK and Europe from September through to December. New album and documentary on the horizon The tour announcement coincides with a major period in Kahan’s career. His fourth studio album, The Great Divide , is set for release on April 24th, one of the most highly anticipated albums of the year among his growing global fanbase. Just days earlier, fans will also get a deeper look into his journey with the release of his Netflix documentary, Noah Kahan: Out of Body , launching worldwide on April 13th.

With travel to Japan peaking, get off the beaten track and explore some of Japan’s lesser-known regions on your next holiday. If you’ve tackled Tokyo and know Kyoto, give other destinations full of natural beauty, historical sites and authentic culture a go. Here are seven Japanese destinations ideal for second-time visitors craving brand-new experiences. Hachinohe  Hachinohe is a region rich in history and natural beauty tucked in the northeastern Aomori Prefecture. Easily accessible via bullet train from Tokyo, Hachinohe boasts rugged coastal trails, sake-clear rivers flowing past farmhouses and lively markets – making for a perfect escape into the Japanese countryside. Foodies should head to the morning fish market Mutsuminato , a beloved local landmark that’s been part of the city since post-World War II and is affectionately called ‘Hachinohe’s Kitchen.’ www.visithachinohe.com/en Gifu Located in the centre of Japan’s main island Honshu, Gifu is a large landlocked prefecture in the Japan Alps. A large part of Gifu is rural and home to a rich natural heritage; its traditions, culture and craftsmanship, handed down through many generations. This prefecture is ideal for the slower-paced explorer looking to embrace slow and meaningful travel. Be sure to visit the historic town of Takayama, an old merchant town overflowing with traditional Japanese architecture and atmosphere. www.visitgifu.com Ishikawa Japan’s Ishikawa prefecture has a thriving traditional craft scene that’s been nurtured for generations. From the modern architecture of Kanazawa Station to the progressive 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, traditional geisha performances at Yamanaka-za Theater to exquisite porcelain displays of the Kutani-yaki Art Museum, there is something for everyone. One of the symbols of Ishikawa is gold leaf, extremely thin leaves of gold used decoratively on crafts and ornaments. Several shops around Kanazawa let visitors see the gold leaf process and decorate their own items, including chopsticks, small plates and mirrors. www.ishikawatravel.jp/en Mitsuboshi Kaido  Nestled in the heart of Japan, the Three-star Road, also known as Mitsuboshi Kaido, encompasses five distinct destinations each with something special to offer. Travellers wanting to book a long-awaited trip to Japan should look no further than Kanazawa, Nanto, Shirakawa, Takayama and Matsumoto, where they’ll find historical sites, fantastic gastronomy and authentic culture at every turn. Be sure to visit Kamikochi – a popular resort in the Japan Alps offering some of Japan’s most spectacular mountain scenery. www.mitsuboshi-kaidou.com Kyushu  Easily reached by land, sea and air, the dynamic island of Kyushu is Japan’s third largest island, located southwest of Honshu. Closer to Korea than Tokyo, but easily reached from every major Japanese city, Kyushu was an early centre of Japanese civilization and offers historic treasures, modern cities and natural beauty. From the volcanic landscape of Mt. Aso National Park, ancient rainforests in Yakushima and bustling cities of Nagasaki and Saga, Kyushu is an island as diverse as it is beautiful. www.visit-kyushu.com/en Shikoku Japan’s smallest island, Shikoku is a beautifully remote spot full of cultural and traditional experiences. Accessible by bullet train and the Great Seto Ohashi Bridge from Tokyo, Osaka or Okayama, the scenic island is worth the travel as tourists arrive at its famous onsens, rugged coastlines and ancient 88-temple pilgrimage. Soak in the hot spring which inspired the iconic Studio Ghibli Spirited Away, try its famous Udon noodles, or visit Naoshima, an island completely dedicated to art. www.japan.travel/en/destinations/shikoku Hokkaido Hokkaido is the second largest, northernmost and least developed of Japan’s four main islands boasting unspoiled nature, many national parks and rural landscapes. Famous for its snow offering, the slopes in Hokkaido are legendary. For a truly unique experience, travellers should visit the Shiretoko Peninsula. Home to a UNESCO World Heritage National Park, visit the World Heritage Conservation centre to learn about the natural environment and the crucial work done to protect it. Elevated winding walkways offer routes around Shiretoko Goko with longer hikes available seasonally, whilst advanced hikers may take on the 8-hour round trip up to Mount Rausu in summer, the Shiretoko range’s highest peak. www.japan.travel/en/world-heritage/shiretoko/

From adorable pandas to one of the wonders of the world, China has something for everyone! The Great Wall of China The Great Wall of China is one of the world’s greatest landmarks. It should be on everyone’s bucket list to at least visit the iconic wonder of the world once. The Great Wall of China was originally built centuries ago by China’s emperors to protect their territory. Today, it stretches for thousands of miles along China’s historic northern border. There are still sections of the well preserved well enough to be explored. The amazing structure is considered a vital part of the history, culture and identity of China. The Terracotta Army The Terracotta Army is a collection of terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang who was the first Emperor of China. The collection was originally built as protection for Emperor Qin in the afterlife. Another amazing bit of information is each statue has its own individual face, every terracotta soldier is unique in its facial features, revealing a high level of skill and artistry. The terracotta army can be visited all year round as it’s inside and most likely won’t be affected by the weather. Cruise Down the Li River The Li River or Li Jiang is the name for the upper reaches of the Gui River in northwestern Guangxi, China. Along the river, you will find karst peaks, grazing water buffalo, farmers working in the fields, and traditional villages nestled at the bases of the hills. There are different ways you can cruise the river, take a relaxing cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo, take a bamboo raft trip or you can hike alongside the Li River to get closer to nature. The most popular way with locals and tourists is the river cruise. Chengdu Research Base This one is a special one. The multi-award-winning Chengdu Research Base , located on Panda Road in Chengdu City is a base dedicated to breeding pandas while also educating people about the adorable national treasures of China. Chengdu is open to the public and provides experts that at the Panda base guide tourists, instruct them how to feed giant pandas and their cubs and teach different ways how they can protect these beautiful creatures. The base is a great place to visit with friends or family and not only lets you see some amazing animals buts educates its visitors. The Bund, Shanghai The Bund in Shanghai is definitely the most popular part of Shangai. The Bund consists of colonial buildings and skyscraper views with it also being one of Shanghai’s most recognizable symbols, it has been crowned “the pride of Shanghai”. The Bund is a mile-long stretch of waterfront promenade along the Huangpu River. To the west of this stretch stand 52 buildings of various architectural styles, including Gothic, baroque, and neoclassical styles. It is often referred to as “the museum of buildings” There is also a night cruise which really lets you take in the beauty of the area which flows down the Huangpu River.

There’s a certain kind of magic to traveling Europe by train, the way vineyards give way to mountains, how one station platform can transport you into a completely different culture. And when you’re traveling as a family, it’s even more special: no airport stress, plenty of legroom, and the thrill of watching the world roll by together. This 14-day itinerary blends the best of France and Spain , from Parisian boulevards to the sun-washed shores of the Costa Brava. Days 1–3: Paris, The Perfect Beginning Start your adventure in Paris , a city that delights all ages. Check into Hôtel Madame Rêve , an elegant retreat near the Louvre, where you can watch the city glow from your window. Wander the Tuileries Garden , climb the Eiffel Tower , and picnic on baguettes and strawberries by the Seine. For family-friendly bites, try Breizh Café  for perfect galettes or Le Relais de l’Entrecôte  for steak-frites. End the evening with a carousel ride under the twinkle of the Tour Eiffel . On your final morning, explore Montmartre’s  cobblestone lanes and street artists before boarding a TGV (France’s high-speed train) south toward Provence. Days 4–6: Avignon and the Provençal Countryside A few hours later, you’ll find yourself surrounded by lavender fields and sunlit stone villages. Stay at La Divine Comédie , a family-friendly boutique hotel in Avignon with lush gardens and a plunge pool perfect for cooling off. Explore the Palais des Papes , wander across the famous Pont d’Avignon , and sample goat’s cheese and honey at the local market. Day trips by train or car to Gordes  or Roussillon  reveal the true rhythm of Provence, slow mornings, olive groves, and long, lazy lunches. Dinner at La Fourchette  in Avignon serves Provençal classics with charm, while the kids can indulge in lavender ice cream for dessert. Days 7–9: Nice, Glamour by the Sea Next, head south on the TGV to Nice , where France meets the Mediterranean. Check into Hotel Rossetti , tucked in the old town, and spend your days beach-hopping along the Promenade des Anglais  or taking short train rides to Villefranche-sur-Mer  and Antibes . Kids will love riding the open-air petit train  around town or visiting the Marc Chagall Museum , while adults can sip rosé by the water. Dine at La Petite Maison  for seafood and sunshine or grab socca (chickpea pancakes) from a street stall for something quick and local. Days 10–11: Barcelona , The City of Gaudí and Sunshine. From Nice, catch the high-speed train across the border into Spain. In just over six hours, you’ll be in Barcelona , where Gothic alleys, beaches, and bold architecture collide. Check into Hotel Neri , a serene hideaway in the Gothic Quarter with family suites and a shaded courtyard. Spend your days exploring Park Güell , marvelling at La Sagrada Família , and enjoying churros and hot chocolate at Granja Dulcinea . Don’t miss a late afternoon stroll along Barceloneta Beach , where locals gather for golden-hour swims. Dinner at El Xampanyet  is a Barcelona institution, cava for the grown-ups, croquettes and patatas bravas for everyone else. Days 12–14: San Sebastián — Food, Surf, and Family Fun Finish your journey with a train ride north to San Sebastián , Spain’s culinary heart. Stay at Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra , overlooking the glittering La Concha Bay , and let the kids run wild on the sand while you order pintxos (Basque tapas) from nearby bars. Spend one day surfing at Zurriola Beach  and another wandering the old town’s markets and bakeries. For your grand finale, book a table at Bodegón Alejandro , a family-friendly Mich elin-starred spot that proves haute cuisine can still feel like home cooking. The Takeaway Traveling Europe by train isn’t just about getting from one destination to the next, it’s about savoring the in-between moments: the laughter shared over window views, the quiet awe of a changing landscape, and the joy of discovering new flavors, faces, and stories together. From Parisian charm to Mediterranean sunshine, this journey through France and Spain reminds us that the magic of travel lies as much in the journey as in the destinations themselves.

Sunshine, great food, and quality time with friends the perfect recipe for an unforgettable summer! If you’re in Ireland (or planning a trip), here’s a selection of food festivals you absolutely shouldn’t miss if you’re a true foodie. Taste of Dublin Every summer, Taste of Dublin transforms Merrion Square into a true paradise for food lovers. From June 11 to 14, 2026, starting at 12 PM, this four-day festival offers tastings (including wine tastings), culinary discoveries, and the chance to meet some of Ireland’s top chefs. You’ll find local artisan products, hands-on workshops, and masterclasses to learn new cooking techniques. Enjoy a relaxed and friendly atmosphere at one of the city’s most iconic food festivals. Wander between stalls with a drink in hand, surrounded by incredible aromas in a stunning setting. Ticket price: €19.50 BBQ Festival Bray A seaside festival? Yes please! Head to Bray around mid-July for the BBQ Festival, dedicated to barbecue and street food. This family-friendly event takes place along the beautiful seafront and offers a full weekend of activities, including live demonstrations, a funfair, games, DJ sets, and plenty of BBQ and food trucks all in a lively, festive atmosphere. Keep an eye on their website around July 18 for the full lineup and countdown to this summer’s edition. Free entry, making it the perfect budget-friendly day out for everyone! Comber Earlies Food Festival As a big potato lover, this is the  festival (yes, I might be biased). On June 20, 2026, come celebrate the famous Comber Earlies potatoes, known for their exceptional quality along with the best of local produce. Expect cooking demonstrations, tastings (the best part), artisan markets, and entertainment for the whole family. Enjoy a warm and authentic atmosphere with live music and even a vintage tractor display! A perfect day out to discover local culture with friends or family. Big Grill Festival 2026 This summer is all about barbecue and if you’re a fan, the Big Grill Festival is made for you! From August 13 to 16, 2026, Herbert Park hosts four days of pure foodie heaven, bringing together Irish and international chefs alongside BBQ specialists for an unforgettable culinary experience. Expect workshops to learn new techniques, plus fun activities like the famous chilli-eating competition you definitely don’t want to miss! The perfect mix for a fun and social weekend centered around a shared love of food. Tickets from: €30 Flavours of Fingal Just 10 minutes from Dublin Airport, at Newbridge House and Farm, discover Flavours of Fingal a food festival that immerses you in local culture. Taking place over two days from July 4 to 5, the festival features outdoor activities, agricultural demonstrations, and even equestrian shows. It offers a true taste of Irish gastronomy, with plenty of fresh produce and local specialties to discover. This 14th edition promises to be an unforgettable experience! Note: There is no dedicated shuttle service this year. It’s recommended to use public transport or drive but be sure to book your parking in advance to benefit from reduced rates. With all these festivals, summer in Ireland is set to be delicious, festive, and full of culinary discoveries! From tastings and workshops to live music, there’s something for everyone and every taste. It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy the season while sharing unforgettable moments. So mark your calendars and let’s meet around a great meal made with love!

The new season of I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! has just been released, and this time it features well-known celebrities from past seasons returning to take part again! The 2026 series is currently being filmed in Kruger National Park, giving it a very different setting from the usual Australian jungle. The location is known for its wildlife and large open landscapes, which adds to the challenges and overall atmosphere of the show. It may not be in the outback but it still has all the critters and creatures we are used to seeing on the show... To make it just as exciting to be a viewer, we have found some amazing places nearby where tourists can stay if they want to visit the area! Lodges and hotels close to the park include: Protea Hotel by Marriott Kruger Gate Located near Skukuza, the hotel’s elevated walkways and treehouse inspired architecture offers guests the impression of living among the forest canopy. Perry's Bridge Hollow Boutique Hotel A boutique 4 star retreat hotel in Hazyview, Mpumalanga, South Africa, located within the vibrant Perry’s Bridge Trading Post near the Kruger National Park, offering contemporary, safari inspired accommodation. Kruger Gate Hotel A 4 star safari lodge located on the banks of the Sabie River at the Paul Kruger Gate, the western entrance to South Africa’s Kruger National Park offering direct access to one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations.

While famous for its alluring desert landscapes, Arizona is a water recreational paradise, offering numerous lakes, rivers and pools to enjoy both relaxing and adventurous water activities under the sun. Here are a few fun water opportunities State 48 offers. Houseboating on Lake Powell Cruising on a spacious  houseboat  exploring the coves, side canyons and 2,000 miles of shoreline of the breathtaking  Lake Powell  within  Glen Canyon Recreation Area  in  Page is the ultimate lake getaway. From cozy to luxurious, visitors can rent a dream houseboat at Lake Powell Marinas  and learn to become the captain after a quick driving lesson. Enjoy cruising along the lake, sliding into the water to go swimming, and stopping on the beach for a picnic or to launch a kayak expedition. Help keep the wonder of this natural playground alive by joining Lake Powell’s  volunteer vacation , a 5-day journey where visitors search for stray debris via houseboat. Be sure to venture beyond the lake to witness  Horseshoe Bend ,  Antelope Canyon  and  downtown Page. A Paradise of Resort Pools With more than 300 days of sunshine, Arizona offers countless luxurious resort pools ready to welcome visitors to unwind around or cannonball into! For those seeking a mixture of fun and tranquility, the  Fairmont Scottsdale Princess’  six  pools  ensure the ideal experience for everyone, including a serene adults-only pool for couples, a twisting slide for playful guests and a sunset beach pool where parents can lounge on the sandy beach as their kids splash into the water. Parents and kids will scream in delight riding down the three new water slides at JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa’s  new  AquaRidge Water Park  in Phoenix  before relaxing together in the lazy river.  Adults craving relaxing alone time can swim along  Sanctuary Camelback Mountain’s infinity  pool  in Scottsdale , dip into the Serenity Pool at  Ritz-Carlton Dove Mountain  near  Tucson  or take a cold plunge into  High Country Motor Lodge’s pool in  Flagstaff . Embrace the party atmosphere of sipping cocktails poolside as the sunsets at the Canopy by Hilton Tempe Downtown’s  rooftop pool or be one of the first to experience the new party island and six-acre swimming pool at  VAI Resort  in Glendale , expected to open in 2025. “Beach” Days at Lake Havasu City Jet ski across the aqua-blue waters of Lake Havasu, a 45-mile-long lake at the heart of  Lake Havasu City , the “beach town” of the Sonoran Desert that has more than 400 miles of coastline for visitors to enjoy. Experience the thrill of shredding the waves like a pro by  renting either a jet ski, boat, paddleboard, or kayak  to soak in the picturesque views and the sun. Enjoy the wellness benefits of  swimming in the cool water , meditating at Lake Havasu’s vortexes  and lounging on the sandy beaches. End the day wandering around the waterfront restaurants, shops, and  28 replica lighthouses  before catching the sunset over the water on a  dinner cruise  or from the famous  London Bridge which overlooks the  Bridgewater Channel . Water Recreation at Arizona State Parks Wade into summer fun at state parks where water recreation is the star attraction. Glide down  Sedona’s  red rocks into Oak Creek at  Slide Rock State Park , a natural water park with an 80-foot-long sandstone slide that whisks riders through the refreshingly cool creek. Be on the water 24/7 at  Cattail Cove State Park in  Lake Havasu City , exploring Lake Havasu’s clear waters by boating, paddle boarding and kayaking the day away before falling asleep on the water at the boat-in campsites. Not to be mistaken for a mirage,  Patagonia State Park in the small town of Patagonia  near the border of Mexico is a desert oasis for visitors looking for birdwatching opportunities, hiking, dipping into the lake and relaxing at their lakefront cabin. Escape the crowds and retreat into nature at  Fool Hollow Lake State Park  in  Show Low ,  a hidden gem in eastern Arizona, for a peaceful fishing trip and canoeing adventures.  And don’t miss Arizona’s newest Rockin’ River State Park  in  Camp Verde  Arizona, which offers 204 acres of bountiful recreational activities including hiking and fishing. Kayaking & Rafting Down Rivers Paddling down one of Arizona’s rivers ensures not only stunning views but also pleasant surprises along the journey.  Rafting the Colorado River  through the  Grand Canyon is a bucket list experience, especially when riding through Class VI rapids with the  Hualapai River Runners  and learning about the tribe’s history in the canyon, or looking up at its dark skies on the overnight trip. Kayaking down the  Verde River , one of the Southwest’s last free-flowing rivers that runs 170 miles in central Arizona within the  wine- growing Verde Valley region , is a wonderful way to explore this  American Viticulture Area . Embark on the  Water to Wine tour  in Camp Verde to float along the river and spot wildlife until arriving at the lovely  Alcantara Vineyard  to taste Arizona-grown wines. The 200-mile Salt River starts in eastern Arizona and runs through  Mesa offers thrilling  whitewater rafting trips in its upper portion during the spring. Kayaking or tubing its lower portion to see  wild mustangs wading in the water  is great for summer and fall.  For more information and inspiration:  www.visitarizona.com

As the four Artemis II astronauts journey home after travelling farther from Earth than any humans in history, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is inviting holidaymakers to enjoy a space adventure of their own – in Florida!   The world has been captivated by the spectacular launch from the Kennedy Space Center’s Launch Complex 39B on 1 April, as well as the extraordinary images and live broadcasts from deep space that the Artemis II moon-mission has delivered. From the tense 40‑minute loss of signal as they travelled behind the Moon to the breathtaking solar eclipse witnessed from the astronauts’ Orion spacecraft, millions have followed every step of this landmark flight that marks humanity’s bold return to lunar exploration after more than 50 years.   For holidaymakers inspired by the awe and excitement of Artemis II, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, less than an hour’s drive from Orlando in Florida, offers the closest experience to space without leaving Earth - a chance to stand where real missions launch and feel part of NASA’s past, present and future.   Guests can get a hands-on feel for the story of humans in space through thrilling simulators, behind-the-scenes tours, interactive exhibits, and larger-than-life 3D space films.    From standing nose‑to‑nose with the legendary Space Shuttle Atlantis ® and feeling the rumble of lift‑off on the Shuttle Launch Experience ® , to walking beneath the awe‑inspiring Saturn V Moon rocket at the Apollo/Saturn V Center , the complex brings NASA’s most iconic achievements to life. The Rocket Garden , Heroes & Legends featuring the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame ® , and the chance to meet a real NASA astronaut every day ensures guests leave with a deeper connection to the pioneers who shaped our journey beyond Earth.   The Kennedy Space Center Bus Tour takes guests behind the gates of America’s most storied spaceport, offering an up‑close look at the restricted areas where space history has been - and continues to be - made. Guests travel through NASA’s working launch facilities, passing the world‑famous Vehicle Assembly Building and the legendary Launch Complex 39 - the very site from which Artemis II astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen left Earth for their 10‑day journey around the Moon, where the Artemis I test flight lifted off in 2022, and where the original Apollo missions thundered into the sky before them.   Unveilved in summer 2025, The Gantry at LC‑39 , is a reimagined observation gantry offering 360° views across active launch pads and NASA’s working spaceport, placing guests at the heart of the action. Inside, the Earth Information Center (EIC) blends immersive theatre, dynamic data visualisation and interactive exhibits to reveal how our planet is changing — and how space technology helps us understand it. Visitors can design and virtually launch their own rocket at the Rocket Build Interactive , feel the intensity of a Test Fire Simulation , and explore shaded outdoor courtyards inspired by Florida’s wildlife.   For a glimpse what lies ahead, Gateway: The Deep Space Launch Complex ® showcases the spacecraft, missions and innovations defining the next era of exploration. Guests can explore a range of modern spacecraft, interact with robotic explorers, peer into the James Webb Holotube, and board Spaceport KSC for one of four motion‑theatre “journeys” to destinations such as Mars, Saturn and the Horsehead Nebula. Thrill‑seekers can push the experience even further with the New Shepard Flight to Space simulator, the and Hyperdeck VR Mission Moon - a high‑intensity, multi‑sensory virtual reality adventure that sees four players compete with one another in a race across the lunar surface.   New for 2026 is Fraggle Rock ™ : A Space-y Adventure , an original live show that brings Jim Henson’s Emmy ® Award-winning Fraggles face-to-face with NASA’s real-life space explorers.  Performed twice daily at 12.30pm and 1.45pm, in Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex’s Universe Theater , the production features full-body costumed “walkaround” versions of the Fraggles and puppet versions of the Doozers all crafted by the award-winning Jim Henson’s Creature Shop ™ . Through laughter, music, and physical comedy, the new production blends Henson’s timeless storytelling and artistry with the awe-inspiring science of space exploration.   Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex also offers the closest public viewing of live rocket launches, giving guests the chance to witness real spacecraft lift-off from just a few miles away.   Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex opens daily at 9am, with closing times varying by season. Single-day admission is US$77 per adult, US$67 per child. A two-day ticket is available for US$91 per adult and US$81 per child.   For more information on Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, go to www.kennedyspacecenter.com .

The Phuket Elephant Nature Reserve is a sanctuary where rescued elephants are cared for in a calm and natural environment. Unlike some other attractions, there is no elephant riding or shows. The focus is on letting the elephants live as naturally as possible. Visitors can walk around the area and observe them as they eat, rest, and move around freely. Each elephant has its own personality. Some are more curious and come closer, while others prefer to stay at a distance. This amazing once in a lifetime experience is very calm, with no pressure on the elephants to interact keeping their piece within their new home. All of the elephants at the reserve have been rescued, and the sanctuary is designed to give them a better quality of life. The staff focus on their care, safety, and well being throughout the entire experience. Visits start from around ฿1,200 (about €30)  for a short experience, and go up to about ฿3,000 (around €75)  for a half-day visit, depending on the package chosen. You can find out more about the elephants and the experience on their website: https://phuketelephantnaturereserve.com/ It is definitely the right way to tick off that bucket list experience you may be planning!

The best spot for supernatural tourism is Nevada State. Visitors will find themselves immersed in the otherworldly in Nevada as the state offers a host of weird and supernatural experiences. With more ghost towns than inhabited ones and home to the infamous Area 51 , paranormal activity isn’t unusual in the Silver State. Visitors can head out on a ghost hunt, watch the skies for UFOs, and explore the spooky oddities only found in Nevada. Here’s a guide to the ghost towns and UFO hotspots in Nevada. Keep an Eye Out for Aliens Nevada is home to some of the world’s darkest skies, which makes it the perfect destination to spot the flashing lights of passing UFOs. Head to Tonopah Star Park , Great Basin National Park , or Massacre Rim , these spots are far beyond the reach of light pollution and sound, so are the perfect places for stargazing and solving mysteries. If you are keen to learn more about Nevada’s otherworldly history you should take the Extraterrestrial Highway from the Alamo to Tonopah for a guaranteed Martian sighting on the ground. Visitors will find everything E.T. along their route and you can even stay the night at the iconic Little Aleinn , employees here can also point extra keen visitors towards The Black Mailbox . Supernatural Spots With more ghost towns than living towns, Nevada has plenty of spooky spots to explore. To the north of the state is Virginia City, home of the largest silver strike in the world. Visitors can enjoy a drink in frozen-in-time saloons with names like Bucket of Blood and Silver Queen , stroll along the original wooden boardwalk-lined streets, and hear tales from local characters who still sport period costumes. To learn more about the town’s spooky inhabitants take the ‘Bats in the Belfry ‘ walking ghost tour through the Silver Queen Hotel, Mackay Mansion, and other historic haunts, while the local guide tells tales of the locations and the ghosts that have been there for decades. Unusual is the Usual  Looking for something a little more unique? You will be spoilt for choice in Nevada as the state embraces its quirky history. Enjoy a variety of unconventional roadside attractions including the Clown Mote l is a creepy and unique roadside stopover that is entirely unforgettable. The motel houses what is possibly the largest private collection of clown figurines and memorabilia in the world, and to add to the spooky vibes, is located next to Old Tonopah Cemetery. Next head to Coffinwood , the owners of a custom-made coffin business transformed their home into what they have aptly named Coffinwood. Everything here is coffin-shaped from flower beds to gazebos, there is a pet cemetery, a collection of old school hearses, and visitors can even get married at the ‘Church of the Coffin’. Paranormal Passport Travel Nevada has launched an all-new Paranormal Passport to encourage exploration of some of the more haunted sights. The passport is free and allows travellers to digitally check in at nearly 50 locations to earn points toward exclusive Travel Nevada prizes. The sites range from ghost towns to alien sighting hotspots, to the spookiest of weird Nevada experiences, perfect for travellers looking for something outside the box when they explore. I just hope the ghosts are as friendly as Casper!