Travel Solo, Not Alone with Uwalk.ie Picture it: after a long day of trekking, your feet are tender, your stomach growls, and you’re buzzing from the snippets of light banter and deep insight you’veCa shared on various encounters throughout the day.  To say you’re thirsty would be a savage understatement.  But the final destination of the day is creeping above the horizon, where a cosy taberna awaits, offering glasses of world-class wine for €2.50. It may be a crisp white from the Basque Country or a robust Rioja, maybe a tart, invigorating Alberiño, or a mystery ‘vino del pueblo’, produced a few hundred yards from where you will drink it.  It doesn’t really matter which you go for each day… It’s highly likely to be the best glass of wine you’ve ever had.  Such is the savour with which walkers on the Camino experience each hard-earned pour, and that’s both because of the steps which have preceded it, and the wealth of fantastic wine available in this unique region. The Camino de Santiago offers a delightful variety of local wines as you walk through different regions. Here’s a quick rundown of the wines you can enjoy along the way: Irouléguy Region (Basque Country, France):  Known for its rosés and reds similar to Madiran. Notable producers include Domaine Abotia, Domaine Ameztia, and Domaine Arretxea. Navarra Region:  Famous for its quality rosés and full-bodied reds, stemming from a rich viticulture history dating back to Roman times. País Vasco:  This Basque locale on the Camino Norte produces light, zesty white wines with a slight fizz, typically lower in alcohol but still rich in flavor. La Rioja Region:  Renowned for Tempranillo wines, often blended with Garnacha, Graciano, and Mazuelo. This region is a must-visit for wine lovers, offering some of the best wines in Spain. Ribera del Duero:  Located in Castilla y León, this region produces highly sought-after red wines, predominantly from Tempranillo grapes. Ribeira Sacra:  Known for its stunning landscapes and hardy vines, this region produces elegant red wines like Mencia, Merenzao and Brancellao. Alto Douro:  In Northern Portugal and one of the world’s oldest wine regions, famous for Port wine but also offering high-quality reds and whites. Rías Baixas (Western Galicia):  Specializes in Albariño, a light, fresh, and aromatic white wine that has gained international fame. These wines not only enhance your journey but are also a window into the rich cultural heritage of each region. Uwalk offer Self Guided Walking Holidays on the French and Portuguese Ways along the Camino de Santiago. Speak with their expert team to help you plan your next Camino adventure and choose the right route to suit you.  ‘Travel Solo Not Alone’ Group Camino Walk- Camino Frances Final Stage 7 Nights from €749 per person Walkers on the Camino Frances Final Stage package will traverse undulating Galician landscapes, from the historic city of Sarria to Santiago de Compostela, while enjoying the unique camaraderie found only along this sacred route. Departs:  August 12th availability (Call Uwalk.ie for more departure dates) Package includes:  7 Nights Accommodation, Meet & Greet on Arrival, Local Guide Briefing, Daily Baggage Transfers, Walking Notes & Passport, Daily Breakfast, Emergency Support Not Included:  Flights, Travel Insurance View Offer Here For reservations or more information contact: 0818 333 990 or email info@uwalk.ie Uwalk.ie

Avani Frankfurt City Hotel introduces four new experiences designed to immerse guests in the city’s vibrant culture. Marking Avani’s recent debut in Germany, Avani Frankfurt City hotel has crafted these experiences to capture the spirit of electronic music and celebrate Frankfurt’s storied past as a global techno hub. From art classes and walking tours to water bike rides and mixology lessons, this new series invites guests to explore the city, all set to a pulsating electronic soundtrack. The Techno Painting Workshop offers guests an immersive experience focused on unleashing artistic creativity. Presented in collaboration with Entkorkte Kunst, the class includes guidance from a professional artist who provides tips and insights into Frankfurt’s lively electronic music scene. Accompanied by a funky techno soundtrack, guests can learn a series of painting techniques while enjoying drinks and snacks from The Pantry, the hotel’s lively mezzanine bar. The Techno Painting Workshop starts from €59 per person. The hotel has introduced a Silent Techno Walking Tour where guests can explore eight key city locations, including the Alte Oper and the newly opened Museum of Modern Electronic Music (MOMEM). This unique experience, in collaboration with “street disco” experts  Hushbeats , integrates expertly guided sightseeing with an electronic soundtrack played through headphones. It promises to immerse participants in the vibrant pulse of the city’s music scene, blending cultural exploration with dynamic musical immersion. The Silent Techno Walking Tour starts from €29.99 per person. In addition, adventurous guests can take to the water on a special tour designed by Waterbike Germany. During this mesmerising journey along the River Main, guests can admire Frankfurt’s iconic landmarks while enjoying an upbeat playlist. The Waterbike Tour provides a scenic adventure that offers panoramic views from a different perspective, blending the city’s historical charm with its vibrant contemporary atmosphere. The Waterbike Tour starts from €69 per person. In the evenings, mixology maestros can head to the hotel bar to learn the art of smoked cocktails. Created in collaboration with events specialists,  Fullu Events & More , this innovative workshop invites guests to delve into the art of mixology and craft their own concoctions infused with smoky flavours. The session is set to a carefully curated soundtrack that traces the evolution of electronic music, enhancing the sensory experience and providing a dynamic backdrop to the evening. The Cocktail Workshop starts from €99 per person. For more information and to book, please visit  www.avanihotels.com/en/frankfurt-city , email  frankfurtcity@avani-hotels.com  or call +49 69 9288 590.

In a major shake-up of the quarterly rankings of the world’s most powerful passports, an unprecedented six countries share the top spot for the most sought-after travel documents in 2024. Citizens of France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Singapore, and Spain can now access an impressive 194 destinations visa-free or with visa-on-arrival – the highest number recorded since the Henley Passport Index began tracking global travel freedoms 19 years ago. This index is curated by the London-based global citizenship and residence advisory firm Henley & Partners, utilising exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Historically, Japan and Singapore have held the No.1 position for the past five years, but the new ranking represents a significant rise for Europe. Finland and Sweden, alongside South Korea, claim second place with visa-free access to 193 destinations, while Austria, Denmark, Ireland, and the Netherlands are in third place with access to 192 destinations. Belgium, Luxembourg, Norway, Portugal, and the United Kingdom are positioned at No. 4, followed by Greece, Malta, and Switzerland at No. 5. Australia and New Zealand have improved their standings to No. 6, along with Czechia and Poland. The United States and Canada are tied in seventh place with Hungary, offering visa-free access to 188 destinations. The United Arab Emirates has seen the most significant climb over the past decade, adding 106 destinations since 2014, and now holds the 11th position. Christian H. Kaelin, chairman of Henley & Partners and creator of the passport index, remarked that although the general trend over the past two decades has been towards greater travel freedom, the disparity between the top and bottom of the index is more pronounced than ever. “The average number of destinations travellers can access visa-free has nearly doubled from 58 in 2006 to 111 in 2024,” said Kaelin. “However, the top-ranked countries can travel to 166 more destinations visa-free than Afghanistan, which ranks at the bottom with access to just 28 countries.” Syria follows with visa-free access to 29 destinations, Iraq can access 31, and Pakistan 34. Henley & Partners’ list is one of several indexes created by financial firms to rank global passports based on the access they provide. Arton Capital’s Passport Index, which considers the passports of 193 United Nations member countries and six territories (Taiwan, Macao, Hong Kong, Kosovo, the Palestinian territories, and the Vatican), is updated in real-time throughout the year by monitoring government portals. It serves as a tool “for people who travel, providing accurate, simple-to-access information for their travel needs,” as stated by Arton Capital’s founder Armand Arton to CNN in 2022. Arton’s Global Passport Power Rank 2024 places the United Arab Emirates at the top, with a visa-free/visa-on-arrival score of 180. The second place is held by five European countries: Germany, Spain, France, Italy, and the Netherlands. Sweden, Finland, Luxembourg, Austria, and Switzerland occupy the third spot, while the UK and the US rank 5th and 6th respectively. Arton Capital’s 2023 summary highlighted the increase in global mobility gains by regional hubs such as Hong Kong, Macao, and Monaco, and identified Albania as its “rising star” due to increased demand for its workforce, making it easier for Albanians to live and work abroad. The world’s most powerful passports for 2024: 194 destinations: France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Singapore, Spain 193 destinations: Finland, South Korea, Sweden 192 destinations: Austria, Denmark, Ireland, Netherlands 191 destinations: Belgium, Luxembourg, Norway, Portugal, United Kingdom 190 destinations: Greece, Malta, Switzerland 189 destinations: Czech Republic, New Zealand, Poland 188 destinations: Canada, Hungary, United States 187 destinations: Estonia, Lithuania 186 destinations: Latvia, Slovakia, Slovenia 185 destinations: Iceland

Ever , a real-life restaurant in Chicago, is overseen by the fictional Chef Terry (played by Olivia Coleman) in the TV show The Bear . In the series, Cousin Richie (played by Ebon Moss-Bachrach ), transforms from a gruff waiter to a fine dining superstar in the front of house. [SPOILER ALER!T] At the end of season three, Chef Terry closes Ever. This highlights the impact of The Bear , a fictional television show that captures the essence of the restaurant industry more accurately and relatably than any previous food-related fiction. The show is cherished by restaurant industry workers, the chefs it venerates, and casual food enthusiasts alike. So realistic is the depiction, that the owners of Ever were understandably concerned that the show’s realistic depiction of Chicago’s food scene might lead viewers and potential diners to mistakenly believe that Ever is closing in reality. Last season, viewers were brought on tours of many real-life Chicago eateries. This season, however, primarily takes place on the tense and claustrophobic set of the titular fictional restaurant, offering fewer chances to explore Chicago’s dining scene. There are notable exceptions, particularly the memorable montage that opens episode two, “Next.” This sequence includes shout-outs to sausage-making plants, coffee roasteries, tortillerias, chocolate factories, and seafood markets, highlighting some of Chicago’s oldest, most resilient, and working-class-friendly establishments. Schneider Deli, River North Opened last summer in River North, Schneider is a relative newcomer that aspires to cover both prominent forms of American Ashkenazi cuisine: bagels, smoked and cured fish, and various cream cheese spreads, as well as deli, with staples like matzo ball soup and pastrami sandwiches. Lou Mitchell’s Downtown The century old Greek diner in downtown Chicago is a landmark because it’s the “first stop” on Route 66. The diner is known for its large portions, making the platonic ideal versions of the diner cuisine mainstays it helped popularize, and giving away free milk duds or donut holes, and orange slices. The Original Pancake House, Various locations A small chain in the city with three locations, Original Pancake House doesn’t suffer any false modesty, billing its cinnamon apple pancake “The World’s Greatest” and its offerings “some of the finest breakfast food in the business”. Alexander’s Restaurant Various locations Another generational small chain of Greek delis, bought out by its Ecuadorian chef and his family five years ago. Sydney and her dad, played by the great Robert Townsend, visit the uncredited diner in season two, but here it finally gets its shout out. The biscuits and gravy look sick. Firecakes Donuts Various locations A four location franchise of donut shops that also makes in-house ice cream. Firecakes is currently featuring a limited edition donut collection inspired by The Bear. Tortello West Town This Italian restaurant in West Town also serves as a retail pasta shop selling a wide variety of handmade pastas, and hosts pasta making classes. Jim’s Original Various locations One of Chicago’s famed, long standing Polish sausage stands that has been around in one form or another for 80 years. There is dubious parentage but Jim’s is certainly one of the originators of the famed Maxwell Street Polish Sausage Sandwich: a one-third pound griddled sausage, topped with sweet grilled onions, yellow mustard, and hot sport peppers.

Fancy going someplace that gets more than 300 days of sunshine per year? Why not visit Albania, also known as the Maldives of Europe. I’m just back from a quick visit to this beautiful country. Although it was only a day trip, I’ve already added it to my list of places I need to return to. Albania is a pretty small country with a population of approximately 2.8 million. It’s a largely mountainous region and is known for it’s rich biodiversity, with numerous national parks and protected areas and distinct natural beauty, which include, beaches, mountains and historical sites. Because of these, tourism is a rapidly growing sector. Albania has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from Greek , Roman , Byzantine and Italian cultures and lots more. While Albania is still considered a developing country, it’s making huge improvements each year to attract tourists. Because of it’s close proximity to Corfu (Greece) it’s easily accessible to visit. The coastal city of Saranda can be reached in less than one hour by Hydrofoil from the port in Corfu (Greece) We took the early morning ferry across so we could explore this beautiful city and I’m so glad we did. It was everything we imagined and more. Saranda is a stunning coastal city where you can enjoy the sun, sea, sand and history. It’s a great place for discovering the natural wonders of the Albanian Riviera . Blue Eye Spring and Nature Reserve, Butrint National Park and the Ksamil Islands are all within a stones throw of Saranda and because of its close proximity to Greece and burgeoning port it has solidified Saranda as a gateway to Albania. There is plenty to see and do when visiting Saranda. Enjoy a stroll along the coastal boulevard, take a hike up to Lekirsi Castle overlooking the beaches of Ksamil (Maldives of Europe) or a walk through the ruins of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Butrint . You could easily spend a few days here as Saranda has something for everyone, beach, party, culture etc… We decided to visit The Blue Eye , (A water spring and natural phenomenon) a place where stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity coexist in harmony. The park offers a unique adventure through waterfalls, ancient forests, crystal clear waters and a variety of wildlife. Discovered by travellers and scientists in the 19th century The Blue Eye is believed to be over 50 meters deep which is the source of its unique blue colour. Legend has it that the ancient warriors who drank from it’s waters gained strength and courage before battles. I drank from it, and trust me it was refreshing fresh spring water. In fact, I too gained strength for the climb back down!! The park is well serviced with toilets and restaurants serving tasty snacks and drinks. We ordered three glasses of wine and a sprite and the total cost was seven euro fifty cent. There is also a souvenir shop selling trinkets and all things blue eyed. We spent a total of three hours exploring the park and even dipped our feet into the icy cold waters. Officially, as the signs indicate, you’re not allowed to swim, but you still see people jumping into the glacier cold water. At 10*C it’s baltic and it stays at that all year round so dipping our feet in was a nice way to cool down from the 34*C we were experiencing at the time. Albania is cheap to say the least, you just need to know where to look and how to bargain. We took a taxi from the port in Saranda to The Blue Eye (40 minutes drive) the first guy we approached wanted €120 for a wait and return trip so we said we’d think about it and headed off for a coffee and a croissant. When we came back we approached another guy and haggled with him for the same trip and got it for €85 for the three of us. We were happy to pay it as it meant we were under no pressure to seek out a return taxi and were guaranteed to get back to the port in plenty of time for the ferry back to Corfu . On the return the guy dropped us at a nearby beach where we got to spend a couple of hours before returning to the port. I look forward to returning to this country and exploring more of it before it becomes too touristy and more expensive. Overall, we found the Albanian people to be warm and hospitable with a strong desire to assist and ensure your experience is a good one. In my experience, the tourist potential of the coast and mountain areas of Albania is exceptional, if you haven’t visited yet, put it on your list!!

Shopping hauls, endless advertisements, 10-step skincare routines: social media and overconsumption often go hand in hand. But every once in a while, users try to break the cycle. The latest attempt has been dubbed ‘underconsumption core’, where TikTokers are promoting the concept of only buying what you need and using it until it’s finished or thoroughly worn out. This includes wearing the same pair of runners for years, using every last bit of a skin cream before buying a new one, storing glass jars to reuse later, and upcycling clothes or furniture. These acts might seem pedestrian, but for people more involved on social media, it is a refreshing change from the usual pressure to amass huge collections of unused make-up or enough clothes to fill a store. A traveller might take this approach by investing in good luggage that lasts for years, avoiding the temptation of flashy, cheap alternatives that fall apart quickly. Instead of constantly buying new suitcases, they choose durable, high-quality options that stand the test of time and miles travelled. Trends away from excessive consumerism Underconsumption core comes on the heels of last year’s ‘deinfluencer’ trend, where instead of promoting every freebie sent to them, content creators got real with followers about whether the products were worth their hard-earned cash. Some TikTok commenters have pointed out that the practice of underconsumption being promoted is ‘standard’ consumption, especially for low-income families. Some view posting underconsumption core videos as a brag that the respective social media user considers themselves above following trends, rather than a genuine altruistic effort to do their bit in improving global conditions and encouraging others to do the same. Other participants misinterpret the trend and inadvertently promote unsustainable behaviour by throwing out products before they have been fully used up. Commenting on the trend, one Tiktok user, Kathryn Kellogg said, ‘ I love that under consumption core is trending right now! Which is really just normal life’. Additionally, underconsumption core isn’t always presented as a more affordable alternative to overconsumption. Instead, many TikTokers have folded it under ‘luxury minimalism,’ focusing on expensive designer products in their downsized collection of goods, reasoning that ‘better quality’ i tems last longer. For the savvy traveller, this might mean choosing high-quality luggage and travel gear that, while potentially more expensive upfront, proves to be a cost-effective and sustainable choice in the long run.

Elon Musk and the giants of big tech might have us believe that everyone is eager to embrace every new technological advancement, envisioning a world where people communicate through ChatGBT while soaring through the metaverse, never putting down the latest iPhone. However, this is not the whole truth. People often tire of this constant bombardment of technology. From swapping a Kindle for a paperback book to favouring a record player over AirPods, savvy minimalists are choosing the charm of the old over the allure of the new. Enter the disposable camera. Since 2019, sales of disposable cameras have been steadily increasing. Fujifilm notes a “sudden organic resurgence” in their popularity, particularly among Gen Z consumers, many of whom were born after the disposable camera’s initial rise to fame. The perception of Zoomers as phone-addicted lost causes is unfair and inaccurate. Many, particularly those too young to remember a time before smartphones, find disposable cameras intriguing and enchanting. For them, the appearance of a disposable camera is an event, a novelty that captures the imagination. Disposable cameras first hit the market in the mid-1980s and dominated for about 15 years. If you remember, you know: They were light, relatively cheap, and low-stakes. After finishing a roll of film (usually 24 or 27 pictures), you’d drop off the camera at a photo shop or chemist to get them developed. The results were often a mixed bag, especially when the photographers were intoxicated, dealing with imperfect lighting, or forgot to use the flash. Thumbs frequently intruded on picture corners, sometimes accidentally cropping out parts of subjects. Even the best images wouldn’t meet today’s high-quality standards. They had a soft-focus quality, capturing moments in a good-but-not-great way. Phone cameras have become, for certain tastes, a little too good—unforgiving and unflattering. The pictures posted, likely edited and filtered, have an undeniable artifice. Everyone knows that’s not what anyone looks like in real life. Disposable camera pictures carry an air of legitimacy. They feel more authentic than digital images. Another issue with phone cameras is that they’re part of your phone—a portal to every text, call, email, breaking-news alert, store, game, and social media platform. As long as your phone is with you, you are never fully present. And let’s not forget the most compelling reason for the disposable camera’s resurgence: “Everyone looks better on film.” Gen Z photographers also seem to value the connection disposable cameras provide to older generations who used these cameras when they were new. Using disposable cameras when travelling can enhance the experience by capturing moments in a way that feels genuine and disconnected from the incessant buzz of modern technology.

This summer, Mattel is bringing Polly Pocket™ to life in an extraordinary way, transforming her beloved ‘90s Slumber Party Fun compact into a life-sized experience, now available for booking on Airbnb. While Polly herself is off on a grand adventure to celebrate her 35th birthday, fans have a unique opportunity to step into her world by staying in her two-storey, nostalgia-filled pad. For 35 years, Polly Pocket™ has been a miniature marvel, fitting perfectly into pockets and playtime memories. But now, the iconic doll’s home has been supersized, offering fans the chance to experience a real-life version of the whimsical world they grew up loving. To mark Polly Pocket’s milestone birthday, this life-sized, vintage-inspired compact is welcoming guests to step inside and relive the magic of childhood. The two-storey “Slumber Party Fun” pad is brimming with throwbacks and surprises, capturing the essence of what made Polly Pocket a beloved toy of the ‘90s. From a wardrobe filled with iconic outfits to hidden treasures tucked away in every corner, this stay is designed to spark imagination and nostalgia. “I’m thrilled to welcome you into my most epic compact yet to celebrate my birthday!” says Polly. “Join me for a slumber party like no other in Littleton, where every moment is filled with adventure. From my wardrobe packed with nostalgic fashion to the hidden surprises throughout, the fun never stops!” About the Stay Nestled in the charming town of Littleton, Massachusetts, Polly’s 42-foot-tall compact redefines “tiny but mighty.” Available for booking on the 12th, 13th, and 14th of September, the compact offers three one-night stays for up to four guests each, priced at $89 per person—a playful nod to Polly’s debut year, 1989. During their stay, guests can: Explore the compact’s intricate design, complete with hidden surprises.Get glammed up at Polly’s vanity, stocked with retro hair and nail accessories in her signature colours.Raid the vintage fridge to create the ultimate ‘90s snack spread.Play dress-up with Polly’s iconic outfits, featuring bold colours and the classic gummy texture.Lounge in the living room with popcorn, a movie, and plenty of cushions.Sleep on Polly’s pull-out sofa or in her life-sized Action Park Tent, located just steps from the compact.Craft custom Polly-inspired charm bracelets to share with a best friend. How to Book Your Stay Ready to live like a doll? Reservations for Polly Pocket’s life-sized compact open on 21st August at 2 p.m. through Airbnb, with the request period closing on 29th August at 7:59 a.m. Travel arrangements to and from Littleton, Massachusetts, are the responsibility of the guests. And there’s more! For those who can’t book an overnight stay, Polly Pocket is offering 21 daytime experiences for groups of up to 12 guests each, available from the 16th of September to the 6th of October. These experiences provide another way to enjoy the life-sized compact and all its nostalgic charm. Booking for these daytime adventures also begins on 21st August at 2 p.m. For more details and to explore other unique Airbnb experiences, visit 2024 Summer Release: Airbnb introduces Icons—extraordinary experiences from the world’s greatest icons

The Bernina Red Train Express is a train with large panoramic windows that ensure unobstructed views of the ever-changing landscape, running between Switzerland and Northern Italy. It offers one of the most scenic train journeys in the world, connecting Tirano in Italy to St. Moritz in the Swiss Alps . The train climbs more than 1,800 metres, making it the steepest railway journey in the world. The whole route is a UNESCO World Heritage site. If crossing the Alps by train is on your bucket list, then the Bernina Express is certainly one of the most spectacular ways to do it. Along the way, the Bernina Express rolls over the 65-metre-high Landwasser Viaduct, a single-track six-arched curved limestone railway viaduct, the signature structure of the Rhaetian Railway. This has to be seen to be believed. As the train rolls along, you can see from the front to the back of the train as it curves along the tracks. Get ready for breathtaking views of mountain peaks covered in snow, alpine lakes, and stunning valleys. Apparently, the best time to visit is spring, as it combines snow-capped mountains, spring flowers, and green valleys. Unless you’re like me and love the cold and the snow (so long as I’m prepared for it, that is). My wish was to experience it during the winter, which I had the pleasure of doing last February. Despite the snow falling, we were treated to lots of stunning sights during our journey, such as the Montebello Curve , a dramatic horseshoe-shaped curve offering stunning views of the Bernina massif. As the train navigated this bend, we were also treated to panoramic vistas of the Morteratsch Glacier and the three lakes. Unfortunately, by this stage, the snow became really thick, so we didn’t get to see the glacier in its full splendour, but from what we did see, it was truly spectacular. This section of the journey is one of the many highlights the Bernina Express has to offer, and for this reason, I’d recommend trying to experience it in spring! The snow didn’t dampen our spirits, though. In fact, it created a magical scene as we watched it blanket the ground, settle on rooftops and trees, and transform the landscape into a winter wonderland. In fairness, each season brings unique scenery, from blossoming meadows in spring and summer to vibrant autumn foliage and snow-blanketed landscapes in winter. One of the many highlights for me was the Bernina Pass. This is where the train climbs to its highest point, offering some of the most iconic views of snow-covered peaks, rugged terrain, and alpine lakes. It’s hard to choose a favourite highlight because the whole journey is magical, but another of mine was the Brusio Spiral Viaduct. It’s a unique circular viaduct that allows the train to manage the steep descent gracefully. It was fascinating to watch and to marvel at the remarkable engineering that it took to create such an exciting and amazing railway that blends seamlessly with the natural beauty of the Swiss Alps. All in all, the train ride took approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes. We were giddy with excitement when the journey came to an end in Tirano, Italy. We had just experienced wonders, from glaciers and lakes on the way up to palm trees on the way down, on one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. It’s said, you can’t put a price on an experience. In my estimation, this is one experience you won’t mind paying for!!

In the midst of the pandemic in 2020 , Emily in Paris made its debut, streaming into 58 million households. By 2022, the show had soared to become Netflix’s most-watched series, turning numerous Parisian spots into must-visit destinations for tourists. The storyline centres on Emily Cooper, a young American who relocates from Chicago to take up a position at a fictional marketing firm, residing in the charming Place de l’Estrapade in the 5th arrondissement of Paris. Emily’s neighbour, Gabriel, works at a restaurant initially called Les Deux Compères , later rebranded as Chez Lavaux in the second season. This establishment is actually a real place named Terra Nera. Not far from here is the Panthéon , a monument honouring French heroes, which also features in the show. The series has given a substantial boost to various local businesses in the capital. One example is La Boulangerie Moderne, a 19th-century bakery on Rue des Fossés Saint-Jacques , where Emily savours her first pain au chocolat. The bakery now reports that as many as 40% of its patrons are drawn in by the series. This idea is reminiscent of the highly popular ‘Sex and the City’ tours in New York City. The owners of Terra Nera restaurant are delighted to see the square buzzing with activity. Although they have always been able to fill their 40 seats, they now notice a more diverse, international crowd, with fewer Senators among their patrons. While the upcoming adventures of Emily and her friends remain under wraps, here are some key filming locations from previous seasons that any fan shouldn’t miss: #1 Jardin du Palais Royale. #2 Palace of Versailles. #3 Pont Alexandre III. #4 Emily’s Apartment at Place de l’Estrapade. #5 Le Chateau de Sonnay. #6 L’atelier des Lumieres. #7 The Pantheon. #8 Gabriel’s Restaurant – Bistro Terra Ner

A new ranking shows Naples as the top Italian destination on TikTok, with 4,000,000 posts in total Verona is the tenth most popular location on the platform, with 226,000 created posts The study uses data from TikTok Creative Center to identify the most popular destinations  In a new study conducted by travel experts, Pompeii Tickets & Tours , the most popular Italian holiday destinations on TikTok were identified.   The study used TikTok Creative Centre to identify the most popular locations on TikTok, determining the number of hastags associated with each destination. Italy is a top holiday destination for people worldwide, known for its attractions, authentic cuisine, and rich culture. Many travellers share their experiences on social media, and this study focuses on identifying which Italian locations are most frequently featured on TikTok.  Naples is the most popular Italian city on TikTok, featuring on feeds 4,000,000 times. Popular sights featured in videos include the Chiaia District for luxury shopping, the Piazza del Plebiscito and the Royal Palace of Naples, all popular city sights.   Ranking as the second most popular on TikTok is Milan , which has featured 2,000,000 times. Some of the most documented sights here are the Milan Cathedral, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and the monument to Leonardo Da Vinci.   In third place is Italy’s capital city, Rome , which has garnered 974,000 posts with the associated hashtag. Many videos provide tips on where to visit here, with recommendations such as the Spanish Steps, the Pantheon and the Colosseum.   Palermo , a city in southern Italy, is in fourth for TikTok popularity, garnering 901,600 created posts. Fontana Pretoria, Quattro Canti and Palazzo dei Normanni are all popular sights featured in videos.   Bari , the capital of the Metropolitan City of Bari, ranks fifth in TikTok popularity, with 688,800 created posts. Some popular sights featured are Bari Vecchia, Basilica di San Nicola and Strada delle Orecchiette.   The ten most popular Italian destinations on TikTok : Ranking sixth is Catania , the second-largest municipality in Sicily, which has had 613,000 posts created on the platform. Attractions such as the Catania Cathedral, the Roman Theatre of Catania and the Fish Market are popular in videos.   In seventh is Venice , the capital city of the Veneto region of Italy, which has been featured 462,000 times. Commonly featured sights are the Libreria Acqua Alta, the Campanile and St Mark’s Basilica.   The capital of Tuscany, Florence , is in eighth place, securing 417,000 total posts on TikTok. Popular sight recommendations on the platform are the Florence Cathedral, Palazzo Vecchio and the Fountain of Neptune.   Bologna , Emilia-Romagna’s capital, secured ninth place in the ranking, with 314,400 created TikTok posts. Sights such as Little Venice, Due Torri and Piazza Maggiore are featured heavily on the platform.  Finally, in tenth place is Verona , which has garnered 226,000 posts on TikTok. Verona Arena, Juliet’s House and Piazza delle Erbe are some of the popular sights seen in videos of the city.   Speaking on the findings, Magdalena Petrusic, travel expert from  Pompeii Tickets & Tours ,  said:  “Naples’ position as the most popular Italian city on TikTok highlights its charm and influence among global travellers and social media creators. This study not only underscores TikTok’s significant role in shaping travel trends but also provides insights into the broader appeal of Italy’s top destinations. “Understanding these trends helps travellers and influencers alike make informed decisions, revealing the cities that truly capture the country’s beauty and offer a vibrant, shareable experience.”  For more insights: https://pompeiitickets.tours

Experience the magic of Halloween at Hogwarts with a spine-chilling, after-hours event at the Studio Tour in London, where you’ll be drawn into the darker side of the wizarding world. Begin your evening in the Great Hall, sipping a themed cocktail or mocktail under a ceiling adorned with Jack-o-Lantern pumpkins, just as seen in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. From here, explore the darkened Studio Tour, where trick-or-treat stations await with magical sweet treats, sure to delight every sweet tooth. Beware, though—there may be some tricks alongside the treats. Tickets go on sale 12th September. The original and ongoing Studio Tour offers a truly immersive experience, exploring the very studios where all eight Harry Potter films were brought to life. Your journey begins with a guided tour of the Great Hall, after which you’re free to wander through iconic sets at your own pace. You’ll discover locations like the Gryffindor common room, Dumbledore’s office, Hagrid’s hut, the Forbidden Forest, and Diagon Alley. For lunch, you can relax in the “backlot” outdoor area, with familiar sights like Privet Drive, where you can walk through number 4 and peek into Harry’s bedroom under the stairs. The infamous Butterbeer is also available here, a hit with both kids and adults. After refuelling, explore an exhibit showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship that brought the films to life. With over 4,000 people involved in a decade of production, the scale of work is remarkable—from costume designers to make-up artists, each detail contributing to the success of the series. Kids will enjoy interactive experiences such as wand practice and a close-up look at Weasley’s flying Ford Anglia. Meanwhile, adults can marvel at the intricate set designs and props. The Studio and Backlot Cafés offer sandwiches and hot meals, but feel free to bring your own snacks, as the tour is quite long and can be thirsty work. It’s worth noting that while the café serves plenty of kid-friendly drinks, no alcohol is available—so if you’d planned on enjoying a glass of wine during the evening, you may want to adjust those expectations! The tour concludes in a merchandise-packed shop, filled with fluffy owls, wands, and t-shirts. It’s advisable to set a budget in advance if you’re visiting with children, as the enticing array of items can lead to impulsive purchases! For those travelling by train, the Studio Tour is accessible via a 15-minute shuttle bus from Watford Junction, with the bus fare included in the ticket price. Electric, ‘muggle-powered’ buses add to the fun. If you’re driving, parking is complimentary. Family saver tickets are available for £138, covering two adults and two children, or one adult and three children, making it an affordable alternative to a West End show or other premium London attractions. Hidden extras, such as photo opportunities, videos, and posters, are sprinkled throughout the tour, adding even more magic. Visitors can capture their own memories, except in the green rooms where photography is restricted. Timed entry ensures a smooth flow of guests, giving you plenty of time to explore. Tours begin at 9 am, with varying closing times, though the Studio is closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.