Spain capital urged to entice tourists with huge change – despite mass protests

Travel

Spain’s capital Madrid has been urged to entice British tourists by encouraging its restaurants to open slightly earlier despite a continuing tide of protests across the continent.In the popular European country, restaurants tend to open much later than they do in the UK leaving many Britons lost for somewhere to eat as they wait for eateries to open.Now, the region’s leader Isabel Diaz Ayuso is campaigning for businesses to open their doors slightly earlier to try and “seduce” more tourists into visiting.She told the Times: “We want to attract tourists by being flexible, opening our establishments earlier at midday and at dinner time.”Isabel added: “In the same way that happens to us Spaniards, that many times when we are abroad if we don’t watch the time, we don’t eat or have dinner because everything has already closed.“So it’s the other way round too. We understand that we have to adapt to those that visit us, to those who honour us with their visit and trust us.”Isabel’s comments come as protests against overtourism continue to plague Europe and the Canary Islands where the movement has been in full flow since the start of this year. Earlier this month, protesters occupied a beach in Tenerife.A group of people took over Troya Beach just after midday on October 20 with reports of tourists being surrounded by the angry campaigners.Despite the protesters calling for restrictions on the impact of overtourism on the region, they didn’t experience universal support from locals reports the Express.One resident exclaimed: “What they did was a d*****d thing to do. We have to fight for quality tourism but not against those who come here. We shouldn’t f*** the tourist who is on the beach because they have paid for an offer.”Daniel Cabrera, one of the activists, countered: “One of the reasons people went onto the beach is because it’s one of the most polluted and it’s right next to all the hotels and businesses in the area.“We want tourism, what we do not want is over-exploitation and garbage tourism that does not benefit the local economy. Seventy-five per cent of the money from island hotels and other businesses ends up outside of Spain and that can’t be tolerated.”

Tourist issues warning to all holidaymakers visiting Turkey this month

Travel

With the half-term break fast approaching, many are considering a getaway.Yet, a travel-wise mum has sounded the alarm for those jetting off to Turkey. Known on TikTok as travelswithroxy, Roxy ventured to the adored vacation spot and encountered an unexpected chill.Bathing in the sun didn’t quite hit the mark when she was left shivering instead of soaking up the heat. Expressing her surprise, she warned: “If anyone’s coming to Turkey for October half-term, just bring a coat. It’s absolutely freezing. Unpack your T-shirts and shorts and pack some jumpers and coats, because it’s cold.”Her children also confirmed the chilly situation – and Roxy had to purchase a coat during her trip to stay cosy poolside.Although she conceded that the views were “beautiful”, the mum pointed out that all is not as it seems, as the early morning and evening temperatures are particularly low.She encouraged holidaymakers to remember layers to fend off the nippy air. You need to pack more than your summer gear, according to the mum.She added: “It’s so cold. It’s 9.20am here. The water is like an ice bath. Absolutely beautiful, but absolutely freezing.”Since posting her chilly experience online, Roxy’s video has amassed over 17,000 views and triggered a flurry of comments, with some noting their own experiences in Turkey during the same period.Roxy notes that it’s primarily the mornings and evenings that see a significant drop in temperature, as it warms up considerably as the day progresses.A member of the public remarked: “It’s October. Turkey is finished mid September. If you’re lucky, end of September.” A second person commented: “We came last year in October. Was lovely, red hot in day but yeah, cold at night.”And another individual observed: “In Turkey at the moment. Hot during the day, but chilly in the evening.”Despite this, some disagreed with Roxy. One traveller even recounted being “dripping with sweat” during their visit.Contributing to the discussion, someone added: “It’s literally fine. Jumper and shorts in the evening, if that. 26 today through the day.” Another shared: “I’m in Marmaris now. Weather is beautiful.”

Popular tourist hotspot with great national parks named best hiking destination

Travel

Getting outside in the great outdoors not only has plenty of health benefits but is also great for the mind. Autumn leaves are falling and temperatures are getting milder so there’s no better time for a walk.And new research has found where in the world is the best place to go for a hike. This is according to Titan Travel Tours who have looked at the number of hiking trails, walking tours and percentage of protected land.The team then split the findings into categories including best hikes, best countries for outdoor holidays and the most canoe and kayaking trails.Let’s take a look at the results in more detail.The USA came top of the list as the best hiking destination in the world. Zion National Park, Yosemite National Park and the Great Smoky Mountains are some of the best national parks.Meanwhile, Arizona, California and Utah are some of the best states for hikers, with plenty of trails suiting everyone’s different fitness levels.The 10 best hiking destinations in the world and the number of trails:1. USA – 253,7932. UK – 49,3653. Canada – 36,6834. France – 30,5145. Australia – 24,0486. Spain – 16,9227. Italy – 15,1978. Switzerland – 9,6799. Norway – 6,64510. Netherlands – 6,136The best countries for outdoor holidays:1. UK – 8.9/102. Spain – 8.52/103. France – 8.32/104. USA – 8.11/105. Italy – 7.55/106. Croatia – 7.40/107. Australia – 7.30/108. Portugal – 7.14/109. Japan – 7.04/1010. Netherlands – 6.94/10The countries with the most protected land and the percentage:1. Croatia – 38.5 percent2. Greece – 35.2 percent3. New Zealand – 33.4 percent4. Panama – 31.4 percent5. Norway – 30.5 percent6. Brazil – 30.3 percent7. Sri Lanka – 29.9 percent8. Japan – 29.7 percent9. Austraia – 29.5 percent10. France – 28.4 percentThe countries with the most canoe and kayaking trails:1. USA – 1,7692. Canada – 1,5023. Indonesia – 6344. Australia – 5185. UK – 3706. Thailand – 1577. Finland – 1098. Sweden – 1069. Chile – 8310. Mexico – 83

The world’s most overcrowded holiday spot has 118 tourists to every resident

Travel

Over the course of the summer there was a plethora of news about the immense amount of overcrowding in popular European holiday spots.The likes of Barcelona in  Spain, Santorini and Mykonos in Greece, Venice in Italy, and Dubrovnik in Croatia all experienced their fair share of ‘over-tourism’ during the summer months.As the global tourism industry bounces back after the pandemic, many popular destinations around the world face a flock of tourists arriving constantly throughout the year, meaning they won’t be as peaceful as they once were.This includes throngs of tourists in cities and at famous landmarks.Last year it was reported that Edinburgh Castle was named as the world’s most overcrowded landmark. Research from MoneyTransfers.com revealed the most ‘over-touristed’ cities in the world, sharing an index of 100 cities. The Thai island of Phuket came out on top, with a massive 118.5 tourists per one resident. Phuket is one of Thailand’s hotspots for beach getaways and is home to several of the world’s best beaches including Kata and Karon.In fact, Thailand made up the top three cities in MoneyTransfers.com’s index, with Pattaya and Krabi boasting 98.7 and 72.2 tourists per one resident, respectively.The rest of the top 10 most overcrowded tourist destinations included Murğla in Turkey (40.2:1), a city known for its scenic beauty, historical sites and Mediterranean flair.The others included Hurghada, Egypt (28.2:1); Macau, China (26.9:1); Heraklion, Greece (22:1); Venice, Italy (21.3:1); Rhodes, Greece (20.3:1); and Miami, United States (18.6:1).Jonathan Merry, resident travel expert at MoneyTransfers.com, said: “The recent devastating fires in Maui highlighted the feelings many natives to popular destinations have: a desire for tourists to stay away, especially when the land itself is at risk.“The index below highlights just how overcrowded many cities around the world are by international visitors. Although not necessarily an unwelcome thing in many ways, it’s undeniable that this level of popularity and tourists wildly outnumbering locals can result in overcrowding and a cascade of negative effects.”On the other hand, MoneyTransfers.com also shared the cities which are the least ‘over-touristed’ cities.They made it into the 100 cities for international arrivals per year, but have a population size to match, so aren’t overrun with tourists. They included: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (first) as the least ‘over-touristed’ destination; Buenos Aires, Argentina (second); Beijing, China (third); Kolkata, India (fourth); Lima, Peru (fifth); Shanghai, China (sixth); Cairo, Egypt (seventh); Tokyo, Japan (eighth); Jakarta, Indonesia (ninth); and Delhi, India in tenth.In September of this year, the same site revealed that the most overcrowded country in the world can actually be found in Europe.MoneyTransfers.com shared that Austria is the most overcrowded by tourists, boasting a ratio of one resident to 3.6 tourists.Top 10 most overcrowded cities in the worldPhuket, ThailandPattaya, ThailandKrabi, ThailandMurğla, TurkeyHurghada, EgyptMacau, ChinaHeraklion, GreeceVenice, ItalyRhodes, GreeceMiami, United States

Virgin Media O2 offers £10 railcards to make travel ‘more affordable’ – how to claim

Travel

Virgin Media O2 is launching a £10 Railcard reward to help Britons travel to see loved ones more often for a cheaper fare.New research by the mobile phone network provider showed 79 percent of Britons would travel more frequently if they could do it for less.Despite nearly half (39 percent) of people polled travelling at least once a week by rail, 67 percent admitted to not owning a Railcard.A Railcard can provide users with a third off most train ticket prices allowing cardholders to save an average of £156 annually. They usually cost £30 a year.The new reward, available exclusively to Priority members, means that from Monday, October 21, until November 9, customers can purchase a Railcard for only £10.Up to 1,000 Railcard discount codes will be released daily at 9am.Lisa Johnstone, director of priority, loyalty and reward at Virgin Media O2, said: “Priority is focused on helping our Virgin Media O2 customers get the most out of life while saving money where it matters the most.“That’s why we’re thrilled to offer our Priority members a Railcard for just £10, saving up to a third on train travel for the next 12 months.”This exclusive reward will ease the cost of travel, giving our members access to meaningful experiences and the chance to share more special moments with loved ones.”The £10 Railcard is available for the following six card types:Network Railcard16-25 RailcardDisabled Persons RailcardFamily and Friends RailcardSenior RailcardTwo Together Railcard.Discount codes to acquire a £10 Railcard will be released daily over the reward live period via the Priority app and website.

Family-run Louth business shortlisted for prestigiious beauty award

Business News

Joanna Gardiner, CEO Gardiner Family ApothecaryThe ArgusToday at 08:00A family-run Louth business has been shortlisted for the prestigious IMAGE Business of Beauty Awards 2024.The Dundalk based company Elave Skincare has been shortlisted for the Overall Irish Brand of the Year at the IMAGE Business of Beauty Awards 2024, which is decided entirely by public vote.Founded in 1934 by Joseph Gardiner who set up the first manufacturing family apothecary in Dundalk, the Gardiner Family Apothecary has become a byword for sensitive family skincare solutions.Combining their expertise and heritage in traditional formulations with the latest dermatological advances, the company provides specialist, cruelty-free, vegan and sustainable skincare. The family-owned business employs 85 staff and manufactures all of their Ovelle and Elave skincare products in Dundalk.Over the past 90 years, they have employed over three generations of the local community, and export their multi-award winning skincare globally to three continents.They would love to bring this prestigious award home to Dundalk and are asking people to vote for them by visiting image.ie/bob-voting-2024 and selelcted Elave Skincare in the Overall Irish Brand of the Year category.The deadline for voting is midnight, Friday, November 1, and people can vote as often as they like.

Gladiator 2 ‘one of the best films of all time’ – ‘Absolute triumph set for Oscars glory’

Arts & Culture, Film & TV

It’s been 25 years since Sir Ridley Scott directed Russell Crowe in Gladiator, the Roman epic now considered one of the greatest films ever made.The blockbuster won Best Picture and Best Actor Oscars, among other awards, and arguably had a perfect ending.Naturally, when a sequel was announced, fans were concerned.But now such fears look like they can be dispelled after the glowing first reactions to Gladiator 2, which follows Lucius from the first film all grown up and fighting in the arena himself. Check out what the critics said below.VarietyWelcome back to the f*****g movies! That sums up Gladiator II. Ridley Scott’s best directorial effort since Black Hawk Down. I found Paul Mescal’s work as Lucius to be one of the film’s most honest surprises. This is Denzel Washington, having the time of his life in one of his most killer roles yet. A third Oscar could very well come his way. Sound, visuals, costumes, you name it, this movie’s got it. Another blockbuster the Academy can most definitely embrace. Let’s f**ing go!Matt RamosGladiator II isn’t just arguably the best film of the year, it’s one of the best of all-time. It’s one of those films that will reinvigorate your love for cinema. It defies expectations. The performances are outstanding (Denzel just locked in another Oscar).Jillian ChiliGladiator 2 is an absolute triumph, Ridley Scott places you in the action of the arena centered on legacy and honor amping up the blood, battles, and biceps for something so deliciously cinematic and Machiavellian. Pedro Pascal, Paul Mescal, & Joseph Quinn certified movie stars.Scott MenzelGladiator II is Ridley Scott’s best film since The Martian. A big, bloody and bad ass action spectacle that builds upon the legacy of the original. The film showcases beautiful set pieces and a lot of epic battles. Paul Mescal shines. Denzel Washington chews up the scenery quite a bit here and looks like he is having the time of his life.Erik AndersonGladiator II is a true epic and Ridley Scott’s best in years. Paul Mescal is a great action star without sacrificing his indie grit, a worthy heir to the throne. Denzel Washington eats every line and costume without ever overplaying.The WrapRest easy, Romans. Gladiator 2 is the kind of large scale filmmaking excellence only Ridley Scott could corral. Everything about it just works. Big [Top Gun] Maverick vibes in its ability to conjure the past while adding something new. Bold, muscular filmmaking from a legendary talent.FilmSpeakRidley Scott returns to the Colesseum to prove to the world that HE’S. STILL. GOT. IT. Absolutely BUZZING after Gladiator II! An EPIC Shakespearean tale of hope, futility & power within a crumbling system. Denzel FEASTS in a showstopping, Machiavellian performance. What a picture!Simon ThompsonGladiator II serves up the richest feast in the epic action set pieces and deliciously ribald treachery. Dovetailing stylishly with the original, Paul Mescal leads a solid, stellar cast with aplomb. Denzel Washington, Joseph Quinn and Fred Hechinger are a collective powerhouse.Nerds of ColorYou will be entertained. Gladiator. II is awesome, awe-inspiring, and action-packed! It is Sir Ridley proving that nobody else can do epics like him! You’ll want to see this in the biggest arena possible!Gladiator II hits UK cinemas on November 15, 2024.

Gladiator 2 ‘one of the best films of all time’ – ‘Absolute triumph set for Oscars glory’

Arts & Culture, Film & TV

It’s been 25 years since Sir Ridley Scott directed Russell Crowe in Gladiator, the Roman epic now considered one of the greatest films ever made.The blockbuster won Best Picture and Best Actor Oscars, among other awards, and arguably had a perfect ending.Naturally, when a sequel was announced, fans were concerned.But now such fears look like they can be dispelled after the glowing first reactions to Gladiator 2, which follows Lucius from the first film all grown up and fighting in the arena himself. Check out what the critics said below.VarietyWelcome back to the f*****g movies! That sums up Gladiator II. Ridley Scott’s best directorial effort since Black Hawk Down. I found Paul Mescal’s work as Lucius to be one of the film’s most honest surprises. This is Denzel Washington, having the time of his life in one of his most killer roles yet. A third Oscar could very well come his way. Sound, visuals, costumes, you name it, this movie’s got it. Another blockbuster the Academy can most definitely embrace. Let’s f**ing go!Matt RamosGladiator II isn’t just arguably the best film of the year, it’s one of the best of all-time. It’s one of those films that will reinvigorate your love for cinema. It defies expectations. The performances are outstanding (Denzel just locked in another Oscar).Jillian ChiliGladiator 2 is an absolute triumph, Ridley Scott places you in the action of the arena centered on legacy and honor amping up the blood, battles, and biceps for something so deliciously cinematic and Machiavellian. Pedro Pascal, Paul Mescal, & Joseph Quinn certified movie stars.Scott MenzelGladiator II is Ridley Scott’s best film since The Martian. A big, bloody and bad ass action spectacle that builds upon the legacy of the original. The film showcases beautiful set pieces and a lot of epic battles. Paul Mescal shines. Denzel Washington chews up the scenery quite a bit here and looks like he is having the time of his life.Erik AndersonGladiator II is a true epic and Ridley Scott’s best in years. Paul Mescal is a great action star without sacrificing his indie grit, a worthy heir to the throne. Denzel Washington eats every line and costume without ever overplaying.The WrapRest easy, Romans. Gladiator 2 is the kind of large scale filmmaking excellence only Ridley Scott could corral. Everything about it just works. Big [Top Gun] Maverick vibes in its ability to conjure the past while adding something new. Bold, muscular filmmaking from a legendary talent.FilmSpeakRidley Scott returns to the Colesseum to prove to the world that HE’S. STILL. GOT. IT. Absolutely BUZZING after Gladiator II! An EPIC Shakespearean tale of hope, futility & power within a crumbling system. Denzel FEASTS in a showstopping, Machiavellian performance. What a picture!Simon ThompsonGladiator II serves up the richest feast in the epic action set pieces and deliciously ribald treachery. Dovetailing stylishly with the original, Paul Mescal leads a solid, stellar cast with aplomb. Denzel Washington, Joseph Quinn and Fred Hechinger are a collective powerhouse.Nerds of ColorYou will be entertained. Gladiator. II is awesome, awe-inspiring, and action-packed! It is Sir Ridley proving that nobody else can do epics like him! You’ll want to see this in the biggest arena possible!Gladiator II hits UK cinemas on November 15, 2024.

Northern Arizona University Partners with Risaya Academy to Launch Summer School for Indian Students in the USA 

Technology

Northern Arizona University Partners with Risaya Academy to Launch Summer School for Indian Students in the USA  – India Education | Latest Education News | Global Educational News | Recent Educational News Home National News Northern Arizona University Partners with Risaya Academy to Launch Summer School for Indian Students in the USA  This post was…

IIM Sambalpur Unveils Marmagya 9.0 – Annual Business Conclave with Roundtable on Women Leadership for Economic Growth

Business News

IIM Sambalpur Unveils Marmagya 9.0 – Annual Business Conclave with Roundtable on Women Leadership for Economic Growth – India Education | Latest Education News | Global Educational News | Recent Educational News Home Featured IIM Sambalpur Unveils Marmagya 9.0 – Annual Business Conclave with Roundtable on Women Leadership for Economic Growth This post was originally…