As the Biden administration winds down and exits Washington today, President-elect Donald Trump is set to inherit a federal student loan system that looks much different than it did four years ago when he was last in office. President Biden enacted a slew of policies designed to lower payments and expand access to federal student…
Washington: External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar attended the Inauguration Day Prayer Service at St John’s Church in Washington ahead of the swearing-in ceremony of President-elect Donald Trump as the 47th President of the United States of America, on Monday.
“Privileged to represent India as External Affairs Minister and Special Envoy of PM at the Swearing-In Ceremony of the 47th President of the United States of America today in Washington DC,” EAM Jaishankar posted on X.
During the visit, Jaishankar will also have meetings with representatives of the incoming Trump Administration, as also some other dignitaries visiting the US on the occasion.
On Sunday, the EAM held a bilateral meeting with his Japanese counterpart Takeshi Iwaya where both ministers took stock of salient issues in bilateral cooperation, including in the political, security, economic, technological, and people-to-people domains.
This was only the second meeting between Jaishankar and Twaya, after the one held on the sidelines of the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Italy, last November.
The meeting, said the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), reinforced the enduring friendship between India and Japan based on mutual trust, shared values, and commitment to regional stability.
“They expressed satisfaction at the level, range, and pace of exchanges between the two countries. They agreed to maintain strategic communication through frequent dialogue, including Strategic Dialogue and the 2+2 Dialogue of Foreign and Defence Ministers. In this context, EAM extended an invitation to Foreign Minister Iwaya to visit India,” read a statement issued by the MEA on Monday.
“On the 40th anniversary of the signing of the first Memorandum of Understanding between India and Japan on Science and Technology cooperation in 1985, the Ministers declared 2025-26 as the India-Japan Year of Science, Technology and Innovation. The Ministers also welcomed efforts to enhance people-to-people exchanges, especially in areas of technology, skills, and education,” it added.
(IANS)
Mountain tourism and investments in its development continue to be priorities. The government has now reinforced this with a new package of support for investments in these areas, which will encourage local residents to invest in their lands.The Mountain Package, in addition to the sustainable development of the rural economy, will impact the promotion of “Made in Albania” products and the expansion of the tourist map.The Deputy Minister of Economy, Culture, and Innovation, Enkelejd Musabelliu, in an interview for the Albanian Telegraphic Agency (ATA), announced that this package aims to encourage private initiatives, promote sustainable development, integrate investments in areas with high potential, and inhibit the abandonment of the village.According to him, the goal is economic recovery and development, encouraging investment, employment, and the development of small local economies to improve the quality of life of residents in these areas, avoiding dependence on income from immigration, as well as restoring the confidence of citizens, that the natural and cultural assets of these development priority areas can be turned into a blessing for the social and economic conditions for the local communities living there.According to the deputy minister, mountain farms that keep alpine goats can also benefit from the “Mountain Package” by applying to acquire the land to make the stable, to build farms for the cultivation of blueberries or mushrooms, or any type of investment in this direction.”The establishment of at least 500 agro-tourisms in mountainous areas is an extraordinary development. Agro-tourism and mountain farms have the potential to bring a very large economic development to rural mountain areas, which suffer from a spark of this nature. If we incentivize 500 businesses, the development that we will have done in these mountainous areas, in terms of employment and income of these residents, will be extraordinary,” he said.Agro-tourisms not only employ people around them but also share knowledge, so that other residents around them start doing the same.The “Mountain Package” provides ease of procedures for ownership and construction, as well as fiscal stimulus policy.”The first 500 entities that will invest in mountainous areas will be exempted from four taxes for 10 years, such as profit tax, infrastructure tax, real estate tax, and VAT,” said Musabelliu in the interview for ATA.The deputy minister emphasized that the draft law aims to solve the problem of land in mountainous areas, which are generally state land and even though it is known by the residents of the area that it belongs to a certain tribe or family, it is not that it has ever been registered and is not a certificate of ownership is owned. “This law allows recognizing the precursor documents of the Albanian state from the times of Ottoman occupation, King Zog, or Italian occupation,” he emphasized.With this document, the property cannot be registered in the Mortgage, but it serves as a proof document to request the development of that property, he said. Musabelliu explained that this law does not aim to legalize existing facilities.
Mountain tourism and investments in its development continue to be priorities. The government has now reinforced this with a new package of support for investments in these areas, which will encourage local residents to invest in their lands.The Mountain Package, in addition to the sustainable development of the rural economy, will impact the promotion of “Made in Albania” products and the expansion of the tourist map.The Deputy Minister of Economy, Culture, and Innovation, Enkelejd Musabelliu, in an interview for the Albanian Telegraphic Agency (ATA), announced that this package aims to encourage private initiatives, promote sustainable development, integrate investments in areas with high potential, and inhibit the abandonment of the village.According to him, the goal is economic recovery and development, encouraging investment, employment, and the development of small local economies to improve the quality of life of residents in these areas, avoiding dependence on income from immigration, as well as restoring the confidence of citizens, that the natural and cultural assets of these development priority areas can be turned into a blessing for the social and economic conditions for the local communities living there.According to the deputy minister, mountain farms that keep alpine goats can also benefit from the “Mountain Package” by applying to acquire the land to make the stable, to build farms for the cultivation of blueberries or mushrooms, or any type of investment in this direction.”The establishment of at least 500 agro-tourisms in mountainous areas is an extraordinary development. Agro-tourism and mountain farms have the potential to bring a very large economic development to rural mountain areas, which suffer from a spark of this nature. If we incentivize 500 businesses, the development that we will have done in these mountainous areas, in terms of employment and income of these residents, will be extraordinary,” he said.Agro-tourisms not only employ people around them but also share knowledge, so that other residents around them start doing the same.The “Mountain Package” provides ease of procedures for ownership and construction, as well as fiscal stimulus policy.”The first 500 entities that will invest in mountainous areas will be exempted from four taxes for 10 years, such as profit tax, infrastructure tax, real estate tax, and VAT,” said Musabelliu in the interview for ATA.The deputy minister emphasized that the draft law aims to solve the problem of land in mountainous areas, which are generally state land and even though it is known by the residents of the area that it belongs to a certain tribe or family, it is not that it has ever been registered and is not a certificate of ownership is owned. “This law allows recognizing the precursor documents of the Albanian state from the times of Ottoman occupation, King Zog, or Italian occupation,” he emphasized.With this document, the property cannot be registered in the Mortgage, but it serves as a proof document to request the development of that property, he said. Musabelliu explained that this law does not aim to legalize existing facilities.
BRITAIN is full of famous places to visit, from London to Edinburgh and the stunning beaches of Cornwall and Devon. But why not try something new this year, at one of our favourite hidden gems from around the UK. 21Head of Travel (Digital), Caroline McGuire, praises Sixes Social Cricket bar & restaurant chain for being family-friendly21The Sixes Social Cricket bar & restaurant chain is brilliant for familiesCredit: Sixes Social Cricket bar & restaurant chainFrom towns and city breaks to pubs, museum tours and even a geopark, The Sun’s travel team have picked our favourite little-known haunts for a great day out. Sixes Social Cricket bar & restaurant chain – Caroline McGuire, Head of Travel (Digital) BEING a parent doesn’t mean you suddenly have a burning desire tospend your life in soft play venues, snacking on raisin boxes and oatybars. But equally, kids often aren’t huge fans of hanging out in pubsor restaurants.Which is what makes the Sixes Social Cricket bar & restaurant chain sobrilliant for families.Read More on TravelProbably designed more for groups of adults hanging out, thesegastropub-style party bars with tech-led cricket nets are alsobrilliant for keeping kids entertained while you enjoy some food anddrink.Compete against the rest of your group to bat as many high scores aspossible, while dining on really decent quality barbeque food andpizzas, with cute extras like pic n’ mix and sparkling candy flossdesserts.It’s the perfect lunch stop if you’re on a day out with the kids.They’ve got 15 venues all over England, from Bournemouth andBirmingham to Leeds and Manchester, plus five venues in London.Find out more at sixescricket.com21The Sun’s Head of Travel Lisa Minot explains why Brits need to visit Kents Cavern in TorquayCredit: AlamyKents Cavern, Torquay – Lisa Minot, Head of TravelBEHIND a rather unremarkable wooden door in a modern building in Torquay lies an astonishing secret – a labyrinth of prehistoric caves that offer an incredible glimpse into the past.At Kents Cavern, guides will lead you through the complex of caves that were formed 2.5million years ago – over time the huge stalagmites and stalactites sealed in the evidence of the Ice Age occupations.Explorations over the last 200 years have uncovered the remains of wooly mammoths, wooly rhinos, cave bears and hyenas. And the 1927 discovery of a jaw fragment and three teeth were later confirmed to be the oldest evidence of modern humans in Europe.The caves remain one of the most important Stone Age sites in Europe.Other discoveries include evidence of ancient humans making tools, building fires and hunting prehistoric animals.You’ll need to book onto a tour in advance with prices from £16 for adults and £14 for children age three to 15. Under threes are free. See kents-cavern.co.uk21Travel Reporter Alice Penwill has picked the Orchard Tea Garden as one of her hidden gems – it’s an oasis of calmCredit: AlamyThe Orchard Tea Garden, Grantchester – Alice Penwill, Travel Reporter JUST outside of the city of Cambridge is the quaint village of Grantchester where you’ll find thatched cottages, and a medieval church. It’s also home to the Orchard Tea Garden, which was the temporary home of former village resident, poet Rupert Brooke.Other known visitors to the Orchard Tea Garden include famous writers Virginia Woolf and E.M. Forster. Now, the Orchard Tea Garden serves a seasonal menu along with freshly baked cakes and scones. In the summer, the tea garden opens up outside so you can enjoy a coffee and sweet treat on the grass in a deck chair.21Deputy Travel Editor, Kara Godfrey, says, ‘The village ruins of a 15th century manor house are some of the most beautiful to explore’Credit: AlamyMinster Lovell, Witney – Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel EditorTHE tiny village of Minster Lovell doesn’t have a lot of attractions so it’s no surprise it is often forgotten about in favour of other Cotswolds towns.But the village ruins of a 15th century manor house are some of the most beautiful to explore.Right on the river, I spent my childhood there having picnics and playing games in the fields, and it’s a beautifully serene place where you can avoid the crowds.21The hidden Hut is a Cornwall institution – famous for serving such delicious toasties, soups, dahls and evening feats from their tiny hut on Porthcurnick BeachCredit: �Danny NorthThe Standard Inn, Portscatho, Cornwall – Caroline McGuire, Head of Travel (Digital)THE Hidden Hut is a Cornwall institution – famous for serving suchdelicious toasties, soups, dahls and evening feats from their tiny huton Porthcurnick Beach near near Portscatho, on the remote Roseland Peninsula, that it spawned its own cookbook and an Instagram account with almost 80k followers.Then a few years ago, they launched their first gastropub – TheStandard Inn in nearby Gerrans.Getting a table is tricky in peak season but my goodness it’s worthit. On a sunny August evening, we sat in their gorgeous and sizablepub garden, dining on wood fired chicken, Cornish lamb shank, smoked butternut and day boat fish, all washed down with some sensational frozen margaritas.21Travel Reporter, and born and bred Brummie, Hope Brotherton visited Birmingham’s Back to Backs, one of the country’s best hidden gems21The Back to Backs are hidden in the heart of Birmingham behind a shopfront, the homes were used by families up until the 1960sCredit: AlamyBack to Backs, Birmingham – Hope Brotherton, travel reporter FINDING a crowd-free spot in Birmingham isn’t easy, but I think I’ve done just that – hoorah! Located on the corner of Hurst Street and Inge Street, the Back to Backs are hidden behind a shop front. The tiny terraced houses were built around a communal courtyard in a bid to house Birmingham’s growing population in the 19th and 20th centuries. Despite the buildings being deemed unsatisfactory in 1909, families in Birmingham continued to live in the tiny buildings until Cathy Come Home aired in 1966, showcasing the harrowing living conditions. Visitors will need to book on to a 90-minute guided tour to explore the Back to Backs. My guide, John, expertly led our group through two of the houses, which showcased what life would’ve looked like for working-class families in the 1860s and 1930s.Each room was decorated with everyday objects like an old tin of Bird’s Custard – another nod to Birmingham’s heritage. Photos are only permitted in the courtyard, so you’ll have to book a tour to explore this hidden gem for yourself.21The original Loch Fyne Restaurant & Oyster Bar in Argyll, is set in the beautiful Scottish countrysideCredit: Instagram/lochfyneoystersLoch Fyne – Caroline McGuire, Head of Travel (Digital) In the Noughties, Loch Fyne restaurants were the epitome of highstreet restaurant chic, with their fancy seafood and champagneofferings. But thanks to Covid, among other things, they all closed atthe end of the last decade.All but the original – Loch Fyne Restaurant & Oyster Bar in Argyll,is set in the beautiful Scottish countryside on the edge of Loch Fyne(naturally).The restaurant, which has been there since the 1980s, is clean andmodern on the inside, with a huge range of seafood on offer.We dined on the oysters, which are farmed from the loch, as well as adelicious Cullemn Skink soup, mussels and scallop arancini balls.The staff are lovely and the setting really is beautiful, with plentyof great walks afterwards to walk off all the food and booze.21Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey praises Shell Grotto in Margate and it’s not just because its walls are lined with 4.6million shellsCredit: AlamyShell Grotto, Margate – Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel EditorONE of my favourite and most bizarre tourist attractions in the UK is Margate’s Shell Grotto.Just outside of the Old Town (meaning tourists often forget about it), the strange underground cave is made out of 4.6 million shells, which line its walls from floor to ceiling.But the reason I love it isn’t just for how beautiful it is, but for its unsolved mysteries because we still don’t know why, or when, it was built.Some of the shells even came as far as the Caribbean – baffling.21This mystical little loch is enchanting with an ancient island at the centre writes Lisa Minot, the Head of TravelCredit: AlamyLoch An Eilein, Cairngorms – Lisa Minot, Head of TravelDEEP in the ancient pine forests of Rothiemurchus in the Scottish Cairngorms, this mystical little loch is enchanting with an ancient island at the centre, complete with the remains of a medieval castle.It’s a gorgeous three-mile stroll along forest paths to walk all the way round Loch An Eilein but along the way you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled for some unique wildlife including red squirrels, crested tits and ospreys.The now-ruined castle in the middle of the loch was built as a place of safety against marauding clan war bands who used the ‘Thieves Roaed’ along the eastern shores of the loch to descend on Strathspey in search of plunder.Legend tells of an underwater causeway that once linked the castle island to the shore but no evidence has ever been found.While it’s free to wander the loch, there is a car parking charge of £1.50 per person or £4.50per car that goes towards maintaining the woodland trails.See rothiemurchus.net/visit/loch–aneilein/21Hitchin is packed with cafes, bars and restaurants, with travel reporter Alice Penwill recommending a pit stop at the Beer Shop for a pintCredit: Alamy21Hitchin is also home to Hitchin Lavender – one of the county’s most Instagrammable attractionsCredit: AlamyHitchin – Alice Penwill, Travel ReporterON the surface, Hitchin in North Hertfordshire is a hub of cafés and bars, but there’s so much more to see. One of those places is Hitchin Lavender, which sits on its outskirts. The family-owned farm is home to acres of flowers during the summer, think bright purple lavender fields in the summer. And in the autumn, it’s all about and pumpkin picking. It’s easily one of the most Instagrammable locations in Hertfordshire.Hitchin has an annual beer and cider festival, which is very popular with the locals and has been running since 2008. If you’re not in town for the festival, head to Hitchin Beer shop to get your fix.The town also hosts live events in the grounds of the Hitchin Priory Hotel recently completing their summer series. Hitchin has a big market square in the centre of town holding craft and farmers markets as well as car boot sales.21For a taste of Scottish folk music head to Sandy Bell’s in Edinburgh, says travel reporter Hope BrothertonCredit: AlamySandy Bells, Edinburgh – Hope Brotherton, Travel Reporter A TRIP to Edinburgh isn’t complete without stopping at a boozer for a whisky. Most tourists heading to the Scottish capital will visit places like the the Greyfriars Bobby or the Black Cat for a well-deserved pint, skipping Sandy Bell’s. The former shop became a pub in the 1920s and has been a folk music haven since the early 1940s. Every evening, musicians turn up at the Edinburgh boozer and put on a session.Sandy Bell’s can’t guarantee a session will take place, as they’re based on locals simply turning up with an instrument, think banjos, guitars, violins, fiddles and accordions. Even though live music wasn’t guaranteed, I arrived at Sandy Bell’s at 5pm to make sure I had a seat. I had to wait a few hours for the session to get underway, but that didn’t matter because the pub had a well stocked bar and I made sure to have dram or two. When folk musicians started to perform, I was lucky enough to be in the heart of the action, as I was wedged in between a violinist and two guitar players. Despite not knowing each other before rocking up at the pub, the music was harmonious, joyous and raucous. Punters can either tip the performers or buy them a drink, I opted for a latter. My only regret? My pounding headache the next morning – maybe I went a dram too far.21The Sun’s Head of Travel (Digital), Caroline McGuire, says, ‘Elmley Nature Reserve on the Isle of Sheppey in Kent makes you feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere’Credit: Alamy21Caroline McGuire (pictured with a clump of seaweed on her shoulder) swam in Cockleshell BeachElmley Nature Reserve – Caroline McGuire, Head of Travel (Digital)It’s only an hour from London, but Elmley Nature Reserve on the Isleof Sheppey in Kent makes you feel like you’re in the middle ofnowhere.Part of a family farm, there are more than 3,000 acres of wildlife onthe reserve, with guests able to explore on foot or on Land Rover 4x4safari tours.We stayed on a particularly scorching September weekend and even swam in their private beach, called Cockleshell Beach.Open for dips in the summer, in other seasons it’s reserved for birdwatching.There are plenty of places to stay, but we opted for very comfy belltents that cost £130 for four people.We were even able to order the breakfast hamper to be deliveredstraight to our tent in the morning.21Do a spot of shopping at Saffron Walden’s market, which has been in the village since 1141Credit: AlamySaffron Walden – Alice Penwill, Travel ReporterSAFFRON Walden has a rich history when it comes to markets having held one in the village since 1141, and it is still going strong today. On Tuesdays and Saturdays, stalls sell fresh fruit and vegetables, olives, bread, whole foods, fish, flowers, as well as antiques and jewellery. In 2018 the market won the title of “Best Small Outdoor Market” in the Great British Market Awards. On the outskirts of Saffron Walden you’ll find Audley End house and gardens, where they have a miniature railway and a chance to meet the ‘staff’ of Audley End who take it back to its Victorian heyday.21Travel Reporter Hope Brotherton recommends avoiding the crowds at the British Museum and booking onto an out or hours tourCredit: AlamyOut of hours tours at the British Museum, London – Hope Brotherton, Travel Reporter THE British Museum isn’t a hidden gem, sadly. As one of London’s most-visited tourist attractions, the museum is packed from the moment it opens until visitors are turfed out at the end of the day. But holidaymakers who are willing to pay can explore parts of the museum without the crowds thanks to its out of hours tours. Led by volunteers, the tours take place before the museum opens and give small groups the chance to learn more about a handful of exhibitions. Tickets cost £33 and in my mind they’re worth every penny, especially when I was able to see the Rosetta Stone without having to elbow anyone out the way. 21The gorgeous gardens were actually the original tourist attraction rather than the adrenaline-thumping theme park where they lieGardens of Alton Towers – Lisa Minot, Head of TravelIT may be known for its adrenaline-charged thrill rides and rollercoasters, but the UK’s most popular theme park has a hidden gem that many completely miss.Its gorgeous gardens were actually the original tourist attraction.Originally designed in the 19th century by Charles Talbot, the 15th Earl of Shrewsbury, they boast an impressive collection of rare plants and trees, intricate water features and classical statues.By 1890 the immaculately groomed landscaped grounds were attracting crowds of 30,000 to watch acrobats, lion tamers, elephants, bands and fireworks.Spanning more than 100 acres, there are formal gardens, woodland walks and scenic viewpoints. Highlights include the stunning Pagoda Fountain, the Swiss Cottage and Conservatory.But there’s also hidden grottoes to be discovered along the winding pathways.The best time to visit is the spring or summer with flowers in full bloom and lush foliage on the many trees and shrubs.21Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey’s favourite beach is Crackington Haven in CornwallCredit: AlamyCrackington Haven, Cornwall – Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel EditorCORNWALL isn’t short of amazing beaches, but Crackington Haven is my favourite.The sheltered beach is small but being blocked off by towering cliffs means you won’t see many people visit unless they know where to go.There is just a cafe and a pub (the best place to grab a roast dinner from after a surf).Just keep your eyes peeled when driving to it via the small road – blink and you’ll miss it.21The Sun’s Head of Travel (Digital), Caroline McGuire, has picked Southampton as one of her hidden gem destinationsSouthampton – Caroline McGuire, Head of Travel (Digital)SOUTHAMPTON isn’t the first destination that springs to mind whenbooking a UK break, but I had a brilliant weekend with my mum in thesouthern English port city.As a Londoner who spends a decent chunk of my time in traffic or onpublic transport, anywhere that I can get around entirely on foot is awinner.We used the White Star Tavern in the centre of town as our base – the recently refurbished pub with rooms takes its name from the White Star Shipping Line that built the ill-fated Titanic, as passengers and crew wined and dined there before setting sail.Southampton’s rich maritime history has had millions of pounds ofinvestment, meaning there is more than enough museum culture to fill a weekend.As a long-popular port stop for sailors, Southampton also has anexcellent collection of back-street pubs with plenty of character,including the Duke of Wellington, The Red Lion, the Dancing ManBrewery and the quirky Hobbit Pub. Equally great was Heartbreakers, a small live music venue thatdescribes itself as Southampton’s best underground club, where we saw three brilliant acts for under a tenner.Three million people were processed through Southampton onto cruises last year, it handles 85 per cent of all the UK’s cruise traffic.Read more on the Scottish SunDisney Fantasy’s first ever European sailings will be setting sailfrom there this year, heading to Spain, France and northern Europe, as is Royal Caribbean’s huge Independence Of The Seas ship.If that’s you, I highly recommend adding a couple of nights on toexperience what the city has to offer.
BRITAIN is full of famous places to visit, from London to Edinburgh and the stunning beaches of Cornwall and Devon. But why not try something new this year, at one of our favourite hidden gems from around the UK. 21Head of Travel (Digital), Caroline McGuire, praises Sixes Social Cricket bar & restaurant chain for being family-friendly21The Sixes Social Cricket bar & restaurant chain is brilliant for familiesCredit: Sixes Social Cricket bar & restaurant chainFrom towns and city breaks to pubs, museum tours and even a geopark, The Sun’s travel team have picked our favourite little-known haunts for a great day out. Sixes Social Cricket bar & restaurant chain – Caroline McGuire, Head of Travel (Digital) BEING a parent doesn’t mean you suddenly have a burning desire tospend your life in soft play venues, snacking on raisin boxes and oatybars. But equally, kids often aren’t huge fans of hanging out in pubsor restaurants.Which is what makes the Sixes Social Cricket bar & restaurant chain sobrilliant for families.Read More on TravelProbably designed more for groups of adults hanging out, thesegastropub-style party bars with tech-led cricket nets are alsobrilliant for keeping kids entertained while you enjoy some food anddrink.Compete against the rest of your group to bat as many high scores aspossible, while dining on really decent quality barbeque food andpizzas, with cute extras like pic n’ mix and sparkling candy flossdesserts.It’s the perfect lunch stop if you’re on a day out with the kids.They’ve got 15 venues all over England, from Bournemouth andBirmingham to Leeds and Manchester, plus five venues in London.Find out more at sixescricket.com21The Sun’s Head of Travel Lisa Minot explains why Brits need to visit Kents Cavern in TorquayCredit: AlamyKents Cavern, Torquay – Lisa Minot, Head of TravelBEHIND a rather unremarkable wooden door in a modern building in Torquay lies an astonishing secret – a labyrinth of prehistoric caves that offer an incredible glimpse into the past.At Kents Cavern, guides will lead you through the complex of caves that were formed 2.5million years ago – over time the huge stalagmites and stalactites sealed in the evidence of the Ice Age occupations.Explorations over the last 200 years have uncovered the remains of wooly mammoths, wooly rhinos, cave bears and hyenas. And the 1927 discovery of a jaw fragment and three teeth were later confirmed to be the oldest evidence of modern humans in Europe.The caves remain one of the most important Stone Age sites in Europe.Other discoveries include evidence of ancient humans making tools, building fires and hunting prehistoric animals.You’ll need to book onto a tour in advance with prices from £16 for adults and £14 for children age three to 15. Under threes are free. See kents-cavern.co.uk21Travel Reporter Alice Penwill has picked the Orchard Tea Garden as one of her hidden gems – it’s an oasis of calmCredit: AlamyThe Orchard Tea Garden, Grantchester – Alice Penwill, Travel Reporter JUST outside of the city of Cambridge is the quaint village of Grantchester where you’ll find thatched cottages, and a medieval church. It’s also home to the Orchard Tea Garden, which was the temporary home of former village resident, poet Rupert Brooke.Other known visitors to the Orchard Tea Garden include famous writers Virginia Woolf and E.M. Forster. Now, the Orchard Tea Garden serves a seasonal menu along with freshly baked cakes and scones. In the summer, the tea garden opens up outside so you can enjoy a coffee and sweet treat on the grass in a deck chair.21Deputy Travel Editor, Kara Godfrey, says, ‘The village ruins of a 15th century manor house are some of the most beautiful to explore’Credit: AlamyMinster Lovell, Witney – Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel EditorTHE tiny village of Minster Lovell doesn’t have a lot of attractions so it’s no surprise it is often forgotten about in favour of other Cotswolds towns.But the village ruins of a 15th century manor house are some of the most beautiful to explore.Right on the river, I spent my childhood there having picnics and playing games in the fields, and it’s a beautifully serene place where you can avoid the crowds.21The hidden Hut is a Cornwall institution – famous for serving such delicious toasties, soups, dahls and evening feats from their tiny hut on Porthcurnick BeachCredit: �Danny NorthThe Standard Inn, Portscatho, Cornwall – Caroline McGuire, Head of Travel (Digital)THE Hidden Hut is a Cornwall institution – famous for serving suchdelicious toasties, soups, dahls and evening feats from their tiny huton Porthcurnick Beach near near Portscatho, on the remote Roseland Peninsula, that it spawned its own cookbook and an Instagram account with almost 80k followers.Then a few years ago, they launched their first gastropub – TheStandard Inn in nearby Gerrans.Getting a table is tricky in peak season but my goodness it’s worthit. On a sunny August evening, we sat in their gorgeous and sizablepub garden, dining on wood fired chicken, Cornish lamb shank, smoked butternut and day boat fish, all washed down with some sensational frozen margaritas.21Travel Reporter, and born and bred Brummie, Hope Brotherton visited Birmingham’s Back to Backs, one of the country’s best hidden gems21The Back to Backs are hidden in the heart of Birmingham behind a shopfront, the homes were used by families up until the 1960sCredit: AlamyBack to Backs, Birmingham – Hope Brotherton, travel reporter FINDING a crowd-free spot in Birmingham isn’t easy, but I think I’ve done just that – hoorah! Located on the corner of Hurst Street and Inge Street, the Back to Backs are hidden behind a shop front. The tiny terraced houses were built around a communal courtyard in a bid to house Birmingham’s growing population in the 19th and 20th centuries. Despite the buildings being deemed unsatisfactory in 1909, families in Birmingham continued to live in the tiny buildings until Cathy Come Home aired in 1966, showcasing the harrowing living conditions. Visitors will need to book on to a 90-minute guided tour to explore the Back to Backs. My guide, John, expertly led our group through two of the houses, which showcased what life would’ve looked like for working-class families in the 1860s and 1930s.Each room was decorated with everyday objects like an old tin of Bird’s Custard – another nod to Birmingham’s heritage. Photos are only permitted in the courtyard, so you’ll have to book a tour to explore this hidden gem for yourself.21The original Loch Fyne Restaurant & Oyster Bar in Argyll, is set in the beautiful Scottish countrysideCredit: Instagram/lochfyneoystersLoch Fyne – Caroline McGuire, Head of Travel (Digital) In the Noughties, Loch Fyne restaurants were the epitome of highstreet restaurant chic, with their fancy seafood and champagneofferings. But thanks to Covid, among other things, they all closed atthe end of the last decade.All but the original – Loch Fyne Restaurant & Oyster Bar in Argyll,is set in the beautiful Scottish countryside on the edge of Loch Fyne(naturally).The restaurant, which has been there since the 1980s, is clean andmodern on the inside, with a huge range of seafood on offer.We dined on the oysters, which are farmed from the loch, as well as adelicious Cullemn Skink soup, mussels and scallop arancini balls.The staff are lovely and the setting really is beautiful, with plentyof great walks afterwards to walk off all the food and booze.21Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey praises Shell Grotto in Margate and it’s not just because its walls are lined with 4.6million shellsCredit: AlamyShell Grotto, Margate – Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel EditorONE of my favourite and most bizarre tourist attractions in the UK is Margate’s Shell Grotto.Just outside of the Old Town (meaning tourists often forget about it), the strange underground cave is made out of 4.6 million shells, which line its walls from floor to ceiling.But the reason I love it isn’t just for how beautiful it is, but for its unsolved mysteries because we still don’t know why, or when, it was built.Some of the shells even came as far as the Caribbean – baffling.21This mystical little loch is enchanting with an ancient island at the centre writes Lisa Minot, the Head of TravelCredit: AlamyLoch An Eilein, Cairngorms – Lisa Minot, Head of TravelDEEP in the ancient pine forests of Rothiemurchus in the Scottish Cairngorms, this mystical little loch is enchanting with an ancient island at the centre, complete with the remains of a medieval castle.It’s a gorgeous three-mile stroll along forest paths to walk all the way round Loch An Eilein but along the way you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled for some unique wildlife including red squirrels, crested tits and ospreys.The now-ruined castle in the middle of the loch was built as a place of safety against marauding clan war bands who used the ‘Thieves Roaed’ along the eastern shores of the loch to descend on Strathspey in search of plunder.Legend tells of an underwater causeway that once linked the castle island to the shore but no evidence has ever been found.While it’s free to wander the loch, there is a car parking charge of £1.50 per person or £4.50per car that goes towards maintaining the woodland trails.See rothiemurchus.net/visit/loch–aneilein/21Hitchin is packed with cafes, bars and restaurants, with travel reporter Alice Penwill recommending a pit stop at the Beer Shop for a pintCredit: Alamy21Hitchin is also home to Hitchin Lavender – one of the county’s most Instagrammable attractionsCredit: AlamyHitchin – Alice Penwill, Travel ReporterON the surface, Hitchin in North Hertfordshire is a hub of cafés and bars, but there’s so much more to see. One of those places is Hitchin Lavender, which sits on its outskirts. The family-owned farm is home to acres of flowers during the summer, think bright purple lavender fields in the summer. And in the autumn, it’s all about and pumpkin picking. It’s easily one of the most Instagrammable locations in Hertfordshire.Hitchin has an annual beer and cider festival, which is very popular with the locals and has been running since 2008. If you’re not in town for the festival, head to Hitchin Beer shop to get your fix.The town also hosts live events in the grounds of the Hitchin Priory Hotel recently completing their summer series. Hitchin has a big market square in the centre of town holding craft and farmers markets as well as car boot sales.21For a taste of Scottish folk music head to Sandy Bell’s in Edinburgh, says travel reporter Hope BrothertonCredit: AlamySandy Bells, Edinburgh – Hope Brotherton, Travel Reporter A TRIP to Edinburgh isn’t complete without stopping at a boozer for a whisky. Most tourists heading to the Scottish capital will visit places like the the Greyfriars Bobby or the Black Cat for a well-deserved pint, skipping Sandy Bell’s. The former shop became a pub in the 1920s and has been a folk music haven since the early 1940s. Every evening, musicians turn up at the Edinburgh boozer and put on a session.Sandy Bell’s can’t guarantee a session will take place, as they’re based on locals simply turning up with an instrument, think banjos, guitars, violins, fiddles and accordions. Even though live music wasn’t guaranteed, I arrived at Sandy Bell’s at 5pm to make sure I had a seat. I had to wait a few hours for the session to get underway, but that didn’t matter because the pub had a well stocked bar and I made sure to have dram or two. When folk musicians started to perform, I was lucky enough to be in the heart of the action, as I was wedged in between a violinist and two guitar players. Despite not knowing each other before rocking up at the pub, the music was harmonious, joyous and raucous. Punters can either tip the performers or buy them a drink, I opted for a latter. My only regret? My pounding headache the next morning – maybe I went a dram too far.21The Sun’s Head of Travel (Digital), Caroline McGuire, says, ‘Elmley Nature Reserve on the Isle of Sheppey in Kent makes you feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere’Credit: Alamy21Caroline McGuire (pictured with a clump of seaweed on her shoulder) swam in Cockleshell BeachElmley Nature Reserve – Caroline McGuire, Head of Travel (Digital)It’s only an hour from London, but Elmley Nature Reserve on the Isleof Sheppey in Kent makes you feel like you’re in the middle ofnowhere.Part of a family farm, there are more than 3,000 acres of wildlife onthe reserve, with guests able to explore on foot or on Land Rover 4x4safari tours.We stayed on a particularly scorching September weekend and even swam in their private beach, called Cockleshell Beach.Open for dips in the summer, in other seasons it’s reserved for birdwatching.There are plenty of places to stay, but we opted for very comfy belltents that cost £130 for four people.We were even able to order the breakfast hamper to be deliveredstraight to our tent in the morning.21Do a spot of shopping at Saffron Walden’s market, which has been in the village since 1141Credit: AlamySaffron Walden – Alice Penwill, Travel ReporterSAFFRON Walden has a rich history when it comes to markets having held one in the village since 1141, and it is still going strong today. On Tuesdays and Saturdays, stalls sell fresh fruit and vegetables, olives, bread, whole foods, fish, flowers, as well as antiques and jewellery. In 2018 the market won the title of “Best Small Outdoor Market” in the Great British Market Awards. On the outskirts of Saffron Walden you’ll find Audley End house and gardens, where they have a miniature railway and a chance to meet the ‘staff’ of Audley End who take it back to its Victorian heyday.21Travel Reporter Hope Brotherton recommends avoiding the crowds at the British Museum and booking onto an out or hours tourCredit: AlamyOut of hours tours at the British Museum, London – Hope Brotherton, Travel Reporter THE British Museum isn’t a hidden gem, sadly. As one of London’s most-visited tourist attractions, the museum is packed from the moment it opens until visitors are turfed out at the end of the day. But holidaymakers who are willing to pay can explore parts of the museum without the crowds thanks to its out of hours tours. Led by volunteers, the tours take place before the museum opens and give small groups the chance to learn more about a handful of exhibitions. Tickets cost £33 and in my mind they’re worth every penny, especially when I was able to see the Rosetta Stone without having to elbow anyone out the way. 21The gorgeous gardens were actually the original tourist attraction rather than the adrenaline-thumping theme park where they lieGardens of Alton Towers – Lisa Minot, Head of TravelIT may be known for its adrenaline-charged thrill rides and rollercoasters, but the UK’s most popular theme park has a hidden gem that many completely miss.Its gorgeous gardens were actually the original tourist attraction.Originally designed in the 19th century by Charles Talbot, the 15th Earl of Shrewsbury, they boast an impressive collection of rare plants and trees, intricate water features and classical statues.By 1890 the immaculately groomed landscaped grounds were attracting crowds of 30,000 to watch acrobats, lion tamers, elephants, bands and fireworks.Spanning more than 100 acres, there are formal gardens, woodland walks and scenic viewpoints. Highlights include the stunning Pagoda Fountain, the Swiss Cottage and Conservatory.But there’s also hidden grottoes to be discovered along the winding pathways.The best time to visit is the spring or summer with flowers in full bloom and lush foliage on the many trees and shrubs.21Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey’s favourite beach is Crackington Haven in CornwallCredit: AlamyCrackington Haven, Cornwall – Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel EditorCORNWALL isn’t short of amazing beaches, but Crackington Haven is my favourite.The sheltered beach is small but being blocked off by towering cliffs means you won’t see many people visit unless they know where to go.There is just a cafe and a pub (the best place to grab a roast dinner from after a surf).Just keep your eyes peeled when driving to it via the small road – blink and you’ll miss it.21The Sun’s Head of Travel (Digital), Caroline McGuire, has picked Southampton as one of her hidden gem destinationsSouthampton – Caroline McGuire, Head of Travel (Digital)SOUTHAMPTON isn’t the first destination that springs to mind whenbooking a UK break, but I had a brilliant weekend with my mum in thesouthern English port city.As a Londoner who spends a decent chunk of my time in traffic or onpublic transport, anywhere that I can get around entirely on foot is awinner.We used the White Star Tavern in the centre of town as our base – the recently refurbished pub with rooms takes its name from the White Star Shipping Line that built the ill-fated Titanic, as passengers and crew wined and dined there before setting sail.Southampton’s rich maritime history has had millions of pounds ofinvestment, meaning there is more than enough museum culture to fill a weekend.As a long-popular port stop for sailors, Southampton also has anexcellent collection of back-street pubs with plenty of character,including the Duke of Wellington, The Red Lion, the Dancing ManBrewery and the quirky Hobbit Pub. Equally great was Heartbreakers, a small live music venue thatdescribes itself as Southampton’s best underground club, where we saw three brilliant acts for under a tenner.Three million people were processed through Southampton onto cruises last year, it handles 85 per cent of all the UK’s cruise traffic.Read more on the Scottish SunDisney Fantasy’s first ever European sailings will be setting sailfrom there this year, heading to Spain, France and northern Europe, as is Royal Caribbean’s huge Independence Of The Seas ship.If that’s you, I highly recommend adding a couple of nights on toexperience what the city has to offer.
Dhanush has quite many interesting projects scheduled ahead, including his directorial venture NEEK, a.k.a Nilavuku En Mel Ennadi Kobam. The coming-of-age romantic flick features new-generation actors such as Pavish, Priya Prakash Warrier, Mathew Thomas and more. And now, ahead of its February release, the film seems to have already bagged its first-ever review.
Over the years, storytelling in horror movies has become increasingly compelling, thanks to advancements in special effects and other techniques that enhance the portrayal of terrifying moments on screen, making them more convincing. There are countless horror movies that may or may not have met your expectations, but it never hurts to give something new a try—you might just discover a film that you enjoy even more.
JOHOR BAHRU: The ASEAN Tourism Forum 2025 (ATF 2025), which concluded today after six fruitful days, highlighted ASEAN as a strong and dynamic tourism destination. The ATF 2025, which began on Jan 15, consisted of several key programmes including the 28th ASEAN Tourism Ministers Meeting, 24th ASEAN, China, Japan and South Korea Tourism Ministers (ASEAN+3) Meeting, 12th ASEAN-India Tourism Ministers Meeting and Fourth ASEAN-Russian Tourism Ministers Meeting. The forum, in conjunction with Malaysia’s chairmanship of ASEAN, focused on fostering sustainable, resilient and inclusive tourism in Southeast Asia, reflecting ASEAN members’ commitment to building a fair and sustainable ASEAN community. Themed “Unity in Motion: Shaping ASEAN Tourism Tomorrow”, the forum highlighted collaboration among member states to transform the region’s tourism industry. A joint statement by ASEAN Tourism Ministers said the forum highlighted ASEAN’s cultural and physical connections and focuses on building a resilient, innovative and sustainable tourism sector. The statement said at the 28th Meeting of ASEAN Tourism Ministers, ASEAN tourism ministers reaffirmed their commitment to the ASEAN Tourism Strategic Plan (ATSP) 2016-2025 with 70 per cent of its activities completed. The ministers also discussed plans for the 2026-2030 ASEAN Tourism Strategy, focusing on sustainability and resilience, highlighting the importance of improving human resources, promoting sustainable tourism and strengthening crisis communication. During the meeting, Malaysia proposed standardising ASEAN Tourism Performance using visitor data to generate more accurate and comprehensive data regarding their economic contributions and to strengthen the ASEAN-Australia relationship, Malaysia suggested establishing an ASEAN-Australia Mechanism. During the 24th Meeting of ASEAN, China, Japan and South Korea Tourism Ministers (ASEAN+3), the ministers stressed the need to develop the 2026-2030 Work Plan, focusing on joint marketing and sustainable tourism while the 12th Meeting of ASEAN-India Tourism Ministers discussions focused on cruise tourism, air and maritime links and sustainable tourism. The ministers also highlighted preserving cultural heritage and promoting community-based tourism as key priorities. At the Fourth Meeting of ASEAN-Russian Tourism Ministers, ASEAN and Russia tourism ministers reaffirmed their commitment to stronger tourism ties, focusing on cultural exchange, sustainability and capacity-building. Key priorities include improving tourism education, sharing best practices and using digital technology to boost resilience and also highlighted was the need for mutual learning and innovative solutions for emerging challenges. In conjunction with ATF 2025, Malaysia also organised the ASEAN Travel Exchange (Travex), a business platform designed for ASEAN buyers and sellers to connect with each other and explore a diverse range of destination products and services, at Persada International Convention Centre, here, from Jan 15 to 17. The event brought together 323 buyers, 221 sellers, 221 exhibitors and 100 media representatives, showcasing the tourism sector’s recovery and growth potential. Attendees of the event participated in productive discussions, networking and idea sharing to shape the future of tourism in Southeast Asia. At the closing ceremony, Malaysia handed over the hosting of ATF 2026 to the Philippines, who would also take over ASEAN chairmanship next year. However, Malaysia’s hosting of the ATF 2025 would leave a lasting impact as outcomes of these meetings and partnerships strengthen the region’s tourism, promote mutual understanding and support sustainability. This is in line with Malaysia’s dedication, as the Chairman of ASEAN, to incorporating environmentally sustainable and socially inclusive values across economic and social initiatives.
As winter settles in, it’s the perfect time to enjoy some action-packed films. Whether you’re looking to escape reality or get lost in stunning visuals and thrilling stunts, Hulu has you covered. Here are six must-watch action movies available on the streaming platform this season. 1. The Creator The Creator is one film you don’t want to miss this winter. Directed by Gareth Edwards, it stands out not just for its gripping story but for its stunning visuals. While the script may feel familiar and borrows elements from other sci-fi films, the movie’s visuals are something special.