The Landings Resort & Spa in St. Lucia Puts Focus on Women’s Health and Cancer Recovery

The Landings Resort and Spa is delighted to unveil a new spa programme designed to help women navigate the challenges they face at every stage of life.  This personalised approach customises treatments to address women’s specific life events, including motherhood, menopause, hormonal changes and even ageing, whilst also providing a space for women to reconnect with themselves, offering a sanctuary centred around women and their needs.
This new female-focused spa menu includes the only Oncology Spa Programme in the Caribbean, which launched in late 2024 when the resort became the first spa in the Caribbean and the fourth in the Americas to partner with Ricardo Fisas Natura Bissé Foundation. The goal of both spa programmes is not only to engage spa guests through a hyper-personalised treatment plan, but also to foster emotional connection and promote healing from the inside out.
“We have seen too often that traditional medicine doesn’t always treat the whole person, particularly when it comes to women’s health.  Our spa is about so much more than treatments; it’s about creating a sanctuary where guests feel nurtured, restored, and heard,” says Ana Shierla Sanchez, Spa Manager at The Landings Spa.
“We ensure our guests’ needs are met for their specific areas of concern, and we take the time to find out what will work best for them.  Every treatment begins with a thorough consultation to ensure it is tailored to the guest’s individual needs and wellbeing goals.”
At the heart of any effective spa programme is an expertly trained, nurturing team, and the spa staff at the Landings Resort Spa are among the best in the Caribbean. Therapists undergo specialised Oncology Wellness certification training as part of the resort’s annual professional development programme, equipping the team with the knowledge and skills to safely deliver treatments tailored to the unique needs of oncology guests.  The spa’s treatments offered for this programme include Pre or Post Radiation Comfort Skin Treatment, Soothing Scalp Experience, Restore & Replenish Body Hydration and more. Used effectively across hospitals in Spain for over a decade, all treatments incorporate products from Barcelona-based luxury skincare brand Natura Bissé. Spa therapists are also trained in the use of natural oils and teas to support menstrual cycles, menopause night sweats, as well as postpartum treatment therapy.
The Landings Resort & Spa’s innovative spa treatments and services reflect its unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and the pursuit of the highest standards in luxury hospitality in all areas of the resort.  At The Landings, it isn’t all just about a holiday or one spa treatment; it’s about the overall experience of a luxurious retreat to Saint Lucia, on one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. Guests of the resort experience personalised care at the spa and beyond, encouraged to slow down and to embrace often overlooked rest.

A New Season of Festivals Arrives in Greater Palm Springs This Autumn

Greater Palm Springs has long been recognised as a destination where culture, creativity and community come together. This autumn, the region will build on its internationally recognised events scene with a vibrant line-up of new and returning experiences celebrating music, culture, design and sport. From the launch of major new electronic music festival Head Trip to the 40th anniversary of Palm Springs Pride, here is what is happening in Greater Palm Springs this autumn:
Head Trip brings a new sound to Greater Palm Springs | 10-11th October
Greater Palm Springs welcomes a brand-new addition to its renowned festival landscape with the desert debut of Head Trip, a next-generation electronic music festival taking place at the iconic Empire Polo Club.
The inaugural event will bring together a powerhouse lineup of global artists, including Calvin Harris, Skrillex, Swedish House Mafia, FISHER and Chris Lake, creating a one-of-a-kind desert festival experience that adds a fresh chapter to the region’s events scene.
Greater Palm Springs Pride celebrates 40 years | 6-8th November
Greater Palm Springs Pride reaches a major milestone in 2026, celebrating its 40th anniversary with the theme “Be Included.”
The celebration marks the culmination of a three-year campaign focused on inclusion, belonging and community – reinforcing the destination’s reputation as one of California’s most welcoming and diverse destinations.
Modernism Week showcases the destination’s iconic design heritage | 15-18th October
Known worldwide for its mid-century modern architecture and design legacy, Greater Palm Springs will again celebrate its creative identity during the October installment of Modernism Week.
The event invites visitors to explore the destination’s architectural treasures through exclusive home tours, architectural experiences, design talks and special events – a must for design lovers.
Día de los Muertos honours heritage and tradition | November
The autumn season also spotlights Greater Palm Springs’ vibrant Hispanic heritage through a series of Día de los Muertos celebrations across the valley.
Highlights include Run with Los Muertos in Old Town Coachella on 7th November, Coachella Valley Days of Los Muertos at Sunnylands, and the Palm Springs Art Museum’s Día de los Muertos Festival. Each event honours the tradition of remembrance through art, music, culture and community, offering visitors an authentic insight into one of the region’s most cherished celebrations.
BOOK: Palm Springs Fly-Drive Package at Westin Mission Hills Resort
Travellers looking to experience autumn in Greater Palm Springs can book a seven-night fly-drive holiday with Bon Voyage.
Staying at The Westin Mission Hills Resort & Spa in Rancho Mirage, guests can enjoy mountain views, championship golf courses, multiple swimming pools and award-winning spa facilities, while travellers have the flexibility to explore Palm Springs’ celebrated mid-century architecture, boutique shopping and acclaimed dining scene.
The package starts from £2,195 per person, based on two adults sharing – including a saving of £150pp
Includes return flights from London Heathrow to Los Angeles, a midsize SUV rental car and seven nights at The Westin Mission Hills Resort & Spa Based on October 2026 departures.

10 of the best ‘hidden gem’ beaches in Europe revealed

With the summer holiday season in full swing, many people are looking forward to their upcoming holiday, or may be planning a spontaneous trip away. A visit to the beach never goes amiss on a summer holiday, but crowded shores with no space to park your towel can ruin the moment.
This is why global car rental comparison and booking site DiscoverCars.com has put together a list of the top 10 beaches across different European destinations, shining a spotlight on the continent’s hidden paradises.
Praia de Mata, Portugal
In Costa de Caparica, Lisbon, Praia de Mata is a gorgeous, dune-backed sandy beach with free parking and several nearby cafes and restaurants. This beach stretches for miles and is accessible via a dirt road. Being so close to Lisbon, Praia de Mata is a great choice for travellers staying in the capital who are looking for a day trip. Car hire prices for a week in August come to £110.
Possidi Cape, Greece
Possidi Cape beach in Possidi village, Chalkidiki is a beautiful, untouched beach that’s characterised by its crystal-clear waters that surround the white-sand peninsula. Because of its unspoilt landscape, there are no amenities on the beach, but there are small local tavernas nearby that serve fresh seafood. Car hire prices for a week in August come to £159.
Gjipe Beach, Albania
Nestled between the dramatic cliffsides of Gjipe Canyon is Gjipe Beach, a hidden beach along the Albanian Riviera located between Himare and Dhermi. To get down to this pebble beach and explore the turquoise-blue waters, visitors may have to hike down a rocky canyon road, which can take about 30 minutes. Parking is 2.5km away from the beach, and there are no amenities except for a few kiosks available during peak summer season. Car hire prices for a week in August come to £198.
Ramla Bay, Malta
Located on the island of Gozo is Ramla Bay, a red-sand beach with turquoise-blue waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. This beach has basic amenities like toilets and rubbish bins, and there are umbrellas and sunbeds available to rent. Car hire prices come to £49 for a week in August.
Praia do Garajau, Portugal
On the coast of Madeira is a stunning pebble beach that boasts crystal-clear waters and incredible natural scenery. This hidden beach is located near the iconic Christ the King statue, and can be found under Miradouro do Cristo Rei – a breathtaking viewpoint. Visitors can access this beach via a cable car or by walking down a steep path. Car hire prices for a week in August come to £116.
Five more hidden beaches in Europe include:
Cala Banyalbufar, Mallorca, Spain.
Golden Beach, Karpaz Peninsula, Cyprus
Monti Russu, Sardinia, Italy
Beritnica Beach, Pag Island, Croatia
Playa de la Solapa, Fuerteventura, Spain
Aleksandrs Buraks, Head of Growth at DiscoverCars.com, comments:
“Going to the beach is one of the most popular and enjoyable activities on a summer holiday, but finding one that isn’t overrun with crowds and litter can sometimes be tricky. With many beautiful beaches to discover, we selected 10 hidden gems across Europe that may fly under the radar. If you do plan on visiting any of the beaches in our list, make sure to leave no trace by clearing up any litter before you leave.
“We found that it can be a little challenging to access some of the beaches, as a few require a bit of a hike to get to. However, the spectacular untouched landscapes and natural scenery make up for the time it can take to reach the shoreline. Whether you’re looking for crystal-clear waters and white sand, or a pebble beach and deep blue waves, our list has it all!”

IBIZA’S SECOND SEASON BEGINS IN SEPTEMBER

As European travel habits continue to evolve, September is emerging as one of the most appealing months to visit Ibiza.
New research from the European Travel Commission suggests travellers are increasingly embracing the shoulder season, with September bookings rising across Europe as visitors look to avoid the heat and crowds of peak summer. At the same time, holidays are becoming shorter, with four- to six-night breaks now the most common trip length across Europe, replacing the longer week or two-week holiday. Ibiza is well placed to benefit from this shift.
While July and August remain the island’s busiest months, September and October offer a noticeably gentler pace without losing the atmosphere that has made Ibiza one of Europe’s most enduring Mediterranean destinations. The sea remains warm enough for swimming, restaurant reservations become easier to secure, beaches feel less crowded, and village life returns to its familiar rhythm. At the same time, internationally renowned DJs continue their residencies, menus begin to reflect the changing seasons, and long lunches naturally stretch into evenings beneath the stars.
Within the space of a long weekend, visitors can move effortlessly between wellness, gastronomy, beaches, countryside and world-class music, experiencing several distinct sides of the island without travelling far. Island Hospitality’s collection of venues reflects that breadth of experience, spanning the shoreline, the marina, the countryside and the island’s music scene.
Slower mornings by the sea
Mikasa Ibiza, the group’s sixteen-room boutique hotel overlooking Marina Botafoch and the UNESCO-listed skyline of Dalt Vila, offers a restful and welcoming home away from home, complete with plant-forward cafe and rooftop yoga sessions. Guests are within walking distance of the marina’s many restaurants and boutiques, the sandy shores of Talamanca Beach and, after dark, some of Ibiza’s best-known clubs, while remaining just far enough away to offer a calmer place to stay.
Nearby, Beachouse Ibiza settles into a different rhythm as the season changes. Mornings begin with yoga on the sand before breakfast gives way to long lunches overlooking the Mediterranean. By September, guests linger later into the afternoon, while cooler evenings make outdoor dining feel even more inviting. Moonlit Dinners continue every Friday and Saturday throughout the season, before the year’s final LUNAR gathering on 26 September brings together Mediterranean dining, music and community beneath the full moon.
Beyond the coastline
Around twenty minutes inland, Santa Gertrudis offers a different perspective on Ibiza. Independent boutiques, galleries and cafés surround the village square, while Finca La Plaza, housed within a centuries-old finca, reflects the changing season through ingredient-led Mediterranean cooking. Menus evolve with the harvest, while charcoal, citrus and locally sourced produce remain at the heart of the kitchen’s approach. As the evenings become cooler, dinner naturally stretches into another course and another bottle of wine beneath the courtyard’s palms and citrus trees.
After dark
While the beaches become quieter, Ibiza’s music calendar continues well into autumn. Chinois maintains its programme of internationally acclaimed artists throughout September and October, including residencies from Defected, Claptone presents Masquerade, La Troya and Bedouin presents SAGA.
For many visitors, Ibiza will always be associated with the height of summer, but those returning to the island are increasingly discovering that September and October offer something different: warm seas, seasonal cooking, cooler evenings and the opportunity to experience more of Ibiza in a shorter stay.
VENUE INFORMATION
BEACHOUSE IBIZA
Beachouse Ibiza, Platja d’en Bossa, 07817 Sant Jordi de ses Salines, Ibiza
beachouseibiza.com | @beachouse_ibiza
FINCA LA PLAZA
Finca La Plaza, Plaça de l’Església 5, 07814 Santa Gertrudis de Fruitera, Ibiza
fincalaplaza.com | @fincalaplaza
MIKASA IBIZA
Mikasa Ibiza, Carrer d’Ibosim 11, 07800 Ibiza
mikasaibiza.com | @mikasaibiza
CHINOIS IBIZA
Chinois Ibiza, Passeig Joan Carles 17, 07800 Ibiza
chinois.com |  @chinoisibiza

UNESCO-listed Alamut reflects Iran’s military architecture, enduring cultural legacy

Iran’s “Alamut Castle and Related Fortifications” was inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List on Sunday during the 48th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in Busan, South Korea, becoming the country’s 30th tangible cultural heritage property to receive the designation.
In an interview with Miras-e Aria, Labaf-Khaniki said sites admitted to UNESCO’s World Heritage list possess values that extend beyond national boundaries and are considered significant for humanity as a whole.
“Such values must not only have shaped identity in the past, but also continue to inspire people today and represent human civilization for future generations,” he said.
Labaf-Khaniki, one of Iran’s leading archaeologists and a recipient of the country’s “Everlasting Figure” cultural heritage distinction, said Alamut Castle occupies a prominent place in Iranian history because of its association with the Ismailis and its role during periods of political conflict.
Iranian archaeologist Rajab-Ali Labaf-Khaniki in an undated photo
He said the Ismailis, centered at the mountain fortress of Alamut, became an influential political and religious movement whose opposition to ruling powers stemmed from a combination of religious beliefs, political aspirations and what he described as patriotic motivations.
According to Labaf-Khaniki, the castle’s historical importance is also linked to resistance against the Abbasid Caliphate and later the Mongol invasions. He said the Mongol ruler Hulagu Khan entered Iran with two principal objectives: eliminating the Ismaili movement and overthrowing the Abbasid Caliphate in Baghdad, both of which were ultimately achieved.
Turning to the site’s architecture, Labaf-Khaniki described Alamut as an exceptional example of military and residential design.
“Architecture is the setting for human life,” he said, adding that Alamut should be viewed not only as a political and military stronghold but also as a remarkable architectural achievement.
He said the fortress contains an extensive range of functional spaces, including residential quarters, defensive installations designed to withstand sieges, and elite sections whose scale and structural sophistication rivaled those of royal palaces.
The combination of monumental construction, carefully selected building materials, and refined architectural decoration demonstrates the engineering capabilities of medieval Iranian builders, he said.
Labaf-Khaniki said the site’s architectural, historical, cultural and social significance, together with its lasting influence on human civilization, justified its inclusion on UNESCO’s World Heritage list.

Emirates redefines Economy Class journeys with world’s first U-Dream headrest

Emirates is revealing another world first in the sky, transforming journeys for Economy Class passengers with the introduction of the U-Dream Headrest – a game-changing new seat addition that enables Economy Class customers to experience a whole new level of support and comfort inflight. Backed by a significant investment, installation is already underway across Emirates’ fleet, reinforcing the airline’s commitment to helping Economy Class customers fly better.
The U-Dream is a multi-way adjustable headrest designed to provide full neck and head support during sleep or relaxation, which will be incorporated onto Emirates Economy Class seats across all Emirates A350s and most of its Airbus A380s and Boeing 777s. As the first airline in the world to introduce it, the U-Dream headrest is already garnering outstanding praise from Emirates customers.
As part of Emirates’ innovative Z400 seat by Safran Seats, the leather U-Dream headrest is padded and features flexible side wings that can be folded inwards to gently cradle the head and neck. This helps passengers maintain a comfortable sleeping position without their head falling forwards or sideways. The design moves vertically and tilts to align with passengers of different heights and body types, providing personalised comfort throughout the flight. The U-Dream has been independently tested and verified to meet the rigorous aviation safety standards of the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). Emirates is introducing the advanced headrest at scale, giving Economy Class customers an enhanced level of ergonomic support typically associated with premium cabins.
Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates Airline, said:
‘Emirates never rests on its laurels when it comes to customer experience, and we have found a way to significantly improve the comfort for Economy Class passengers, especially those travelling long-haul. The U-Dream changes the game if the person wants to sleep – by supporting the neck in full. No more neck pillows needed. It’s another innovation that shows our commitment to customers and cements our Economy Class as the best.’
Customers are reporting that the U-Dream headrest is easy to adjust and use, and Emirates cabin crew are also trained to assist customers where needed. The leather headrest is designed to be easily wiped down and is cleaned after every flight.
Currently already in the sky on 3 x A350 aircraft, Emirates is installing more as quickly as possible. In collaboration with Safran Seats, all Emirates’ A350 aircraft will have the U-Dream headrest installed by the end of the year. The U-Dream headrest will also come pre-installed on all 270 Boeing 777Xs that Emirates has ordered. From 2027 onwards, U-Dream headrest installation will also begin on Emirates’ retrofitted Airbus A380s and Boeing 777s.
Emirates has redefined the Economy Class experience by combining exceptional comfort, award-winning hospitality and industry-leading innovation across one of the world’s largest international networks. From gourmet dining, the world’s largest entertainment library in the sky, complimentary Wi-Fi, thoughtful amenities and renowned service – Emirates continues to set the benchmark for Economy travel.
Designed for long-haul comfort
Every Emirates flight is operated by a widebody Airbus A380, A350 or Boeing 777, giving Economy Class customers the benefits of wider cabins, more spacious aisles, larger overhead bins and improved cabin comfort. Ergonomically designed seats, generous legroom, mood lighting and personal entertainment screens help customers arrive feeling more refreshed. On the latest Airbus A350, customers also enjoy spacious 3-3-3 seating, large 13.3-inch 4K screens, USB-C charging, higher ceilings and Emirates’ latest multi-dimensional adjustable headrests, designed to provide enhanced neck support for better rest on long journeys.
The world’s largest entertainment library in the sky
Emirates’ award-winning inflight entertainment ice offers more than 6,500 channels of content, making it the largest entertainment library available onboard any airline. Customers can enjoy thousands of movies, TV programmes, documentaries, music albums, podcasts and live sport from leading providers including HBO Max, Disney+, Paramount+, BBC, Discovery+, Shahid and Spotify. Younger travellers are equally well catered for, with dedicated children’s content, specially designed headphones and multiplayer games.
Fast, free connectivity above the clouds
Emirates is introducing Starlink across its fleet, bringing fast, reliable internet to customers at 40,000 feet. Economy Class customers can stream, browse, work, game and stay connected with friends and family throughout their journey. 1 million connections to Starlink have already been made by Emirates customers, who praise the speedy service as ‘better than home’.
Exceptional dining – a frequent flyers award winner
Complimentary multi-course meals and beverages are served on every Emirates flight, regardless of route length. Menus are inspired by regional cuisines and complemented by soft drinks, tea, coffee and alcoholic beverages where available. Emirates regularly delights customers with extras such as warm cookies, popcorn and ice cream on selected routes, while a wide range of special meals caters for different dietary requirements. In the recent 2026 Best Airline Food and Drinks Survey, Emirates leads the way when it comes to premium dining in the sky and was ranked as the best for Economy Class meals, as well as Business Class meals and cocktails – as voted by thousands of frequent flyers.
World-class hospitality
With cabin crew representing 140 nationalities and speaking more than 70 languages, Emirates delivers a consistently warm and personalised onboard experience. Every crew member is trained to the airline’s global hospitality standards in the Emirates Centre of Hospitality Excellence Dubai, ensuring attentive service for every customer, with specialist care for families, children and passengers requiring additional assistance.
Made for families
Emirates has long been recognised as one of the world’s most family-friendly airlines. Children’s meals, complimentary baby food and infant essentials, baby changing facilities, children’s entertainment, pillows, blankets and age-appropriate activity packs help make travelling easier for families from take-off to landing.
Thoughtful touches throughout the journey
Long-haul Economy customers receive complimentary amenity kits created in partnership with United for Wildlife, while children receive collectible travel kits, toys and Emirates’ Fly with Me activity magazine. These small details reflect Emirates’ commitment to making every journey more comfortable and enjoyable.
A network customers can rely on
Emirates connects customers across six continents through its Dubai hub, offering seamless long-haul travel with a consistently high standard of service. The airline also handles almost three million bags every month, achieving a remarkable 99.9% baggage handling success rate – one of the best records in global aviation.
Rewarding every journey
With Emirates Skywards, customers can earn and redeem Miles on flights, upgrades, hotels, shopping and exclusive experiences. Young travellers can also join Skywards Skysurfers, allowing the whole family to earn Miles together from an early age.

Thailand announces updated visa measures and prepares to launch new THIM travel app

Thailand is introducing a series of updated visa measures designed to simplify entry arrangements while strengthening security and making the system easier for international travellers to understand. The revised measures have been approved by the Thai Cabinet and will come into effect 15 days after publication in the Royal Gazette, with current entry requirements remaining in place until then.
Under the updated framework, the previous 60-day visa exemption will be replaced by revised country-specific arrangements, following the principle of “one country, one entitlement”.
“For travellers from the UK and Ireland, the changes are expected to have little impact on holidays as most British and Irish visitors travel to Thailand for two to three weeks. They will continue to enjoy 30-day visa-exempt travel once the revised measures take effect. Those planning longer stays should check the latest entry requirements with the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate before travelling to ensure they have the most appropriate visa for the duration of their itinerary,” explains Worapa Angkhasirisap, Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, UK & Ireland.
Visitors already in Thailand, or those arriving before the new rules take effect, will continue to be covered by their existing permitted length of stay.
Alongside these changes, Thailand is continuing to enhance the visitor experience through digital innovation with the pilot launch of the Thailand Immigration Management (THIM) mobile app, ahead of its expected full launch in August 2026.
The optional app enables travellers to complete their mandatory Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) registration more quickly by scanning passport details, storing travel information and registering groups of up to 10 people in just a few minutes. THIM is not an additional arrival requirement and does not replace the TDAC at this stage. Looking ahead, the app is expected to expand to include digital immigration services, appointment booking, and direct access to the Tourist Police 24-hour assistance service, making travel to Thailand even more seamless in the future.

The best European holiday destinations for pregnant travellers in 2026

With summer in full swing and peak holiday season fast approaching, many holidaymakers will be finalising their travel plans.
For expecting parents, choosing a holiday destination often means balancing relaxation with comfort, accessibility, and convenience. Whether it’s a short-haul escape with warm weather and beautiful beaches or a peaceful place to unwind before the baby arrives, finding the right destination makes all the difference. So, which European destinations are the best places to go on holiday when pregnant?
To find out, JoJo Maman Bébé has analysed over 30 popular European holiday destinations using factors important to pregnant travellers, including hotel and restaurant quality, spa and wellness facilities, beach ratings, accessibility and local attractions. Average summer temperatures were also benchmarked against an ideal comfort temperature of 27°C, with each destination given an overall score to reveal the best places for a pregnancy-friendly holiday.
Rhodes, Greece, takes the top spot as the best holiday destination for pregnant travellers, achieving an overall score of 7.18 out of 10. The Greek island combines high-quality beaches, with an average rating of 4.57 stars, with an extensive range of accommodation, offering 1,574 hotels, over half (51.14%) of which are rated four stars or above. More than one in ten (11.55%) of these premium hotels also feature spa and wellness facilities, while their average summer temperature of 26°C provides warm but manageable conditions. With 1,532 restaurants, over 81% of which are rated four stars, Rhodes offers plenty of choice for a comfortable and relaxing holiday.
Another Greek island, Naxos, Greece, ranks second. The island boasts 702 hotels, with a slightly higher proportion of four-star or above accommodation than Rhodes (53.28%). Naxos also performs strongly for dining, with 80.74% of its 353 restaurants holding four-star ratings. Combined with highly rated beaches (4.47 stars) and a pleasant average summer temperature of 25.3°C, Naxos is an ideal destination for those expecting.
In third place is Gozo, Malta. The island offers a balance of scenic coastline and quality accommodation, with beaches averaging 4.50 stars and almost half (49.50%) of its 301 hotels rated four stars or above. While Gozo has fewer spa hotels than the destinations above, its comfortable average summer temperature of 24.7°C and selection of 260 restaurants, nearly 80% of which are rated four stars, make it an attractive choice for those seeking a laid-back and relaxing holiday during pregnancy.

This Is the Best City In The World For First-time Travelers, and No, It’s Not London or Paris

There are few experiences more magical than nabbing that first passport stamp and becoming an international traveler. If you are ready to take that step but are not sure where to go, new insights from JB.com can help.

In June, the digital entertainment website revealed its list of the top 10 destinations for first-time international travelers. In a press release, the team said it created a list of 40 major cities around the world, then ranked them by analyzing factors that matter most to first-time travelers, including safety ratings, English proficiency, and friendliness. It also took into account nightly hotel costs, historic sites, walkability, and average meal prices at local restaurants.

Coming in at the very top of that list is Portugal, with both Porto and Lisbon tying for first place.

According to the results, both cities rank fifth in the world for hospitality. Porto is slightly more affordable, with a nightly hotel rate of $105 compared to Lisbon’s $134, and its streets are pedestrian-friendly despite its many hills. Lisbon also shines in this category, with almost 200 landmarks within walking distance of each other, huge if you love exploring on foot. The results also note that Portuguese people are “generally good English speakers, so socializing won’t be a problem” if you’re coming from an English-speaking country.

In second place was Prague, which received high praise thanks to its pedestrian-friendly historic center and more than 200 landmarks scattered throughout the city. “Tourists could spend a week there without running out of things to do,” the team said. The crime rate is low, with the city scoring 75 out of 100 points on safety. Additionally, the nightly hotel rate is an average of $107, “which makes it much more affordable compared to Western European alternatives,” the team said.

Rounding out the top three is Seoul, which is a particularly great spot for travelers on a tight budget. A standard hotel room runs for about $65 per night, and a sit-down meal at a restaurant will cost you about $8 (especially impressive given Seoul’s renowned food scene). With over 80 historical sites to explore, a 94/100 walkability score, and affordable public transit (about $1.30 per ride), it’s easy to see why the capital of South Korea appeals to first-time international travelers.

Other top destinations include Helsinki, Finland, at No. 4, followed by Kyoto, Madrid, Budapest, Vienna, and finally, Seville, Spain, rounding out the top 10.

Lufthansa Signals Readiness to Resume Flights to Iran

Germany’s flagship carrier Lufthansa has expressed its readiness to resume flights to Iran, signaling a potential return of international air connections following the reopening of the country’s airspace.
The issue was discussed during a meeting between executives of the Lufthansa Group and representatives of Tehran’s Imam Khomeini International Airport, The Caspian Post reports, citing Mehr News.
The talks come after Iran’s Civil Aviation Organization announced on June 8 that all restrictions on the country’s airspace had been lifted, paving the way for the gradual restoration of international flight operations.