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The Arena di Verona Opera Festival is not just one of the most famous cultural events in Italy, it’s one of the most extraordinary musical experiences in the world. Held inside a 2,000-year-old Roman amphitheatre under the open sky, the Verona Opera Season turns history into theatre. But to make the most of it, you’ll need to know more than just the showtimes. Here’s where to be, when to go, and what to do while you’re there. The Arena di Verona The centrepiece of the season is the Arena di Verona, a colossal Roman amphitheatre that has stood since 30 AD. Originally built to host gladiator battles, today it seats around 13,000 people and serves as one of the world’s largest, and most beautiful, opera venues. What makes the Arena unique isn’t just its scale, but the atmosphere - open air with candlelit steps. The acoustics here are brilliant, and there’s nothing better than sitting in the front rows with a glass of prosecco.  When - June to September The Verona Opera Festival runs every summer from mid-June to early September, with performances typically scheduled three to four nights a week. The 2025 season kicks off in mid-June and will include classics like Aida, Carmen, La Traviata, and Turandot. July and August are the busiest months, with the most performances and the liveliest atmosphere. Book early, especially for the big productions on weekends, as tickets can sell out months in advance. Early and late-season performances (June and September) tend to be less crowded and slightly cooler in temperature, which can make for a more comfortable evening. What to Do Before the Curtain Rises Verona is more than just an opera stage - here's how to fill your day before taking your seat at the Arena. Visit Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta):  Yes, it's touristy. But stepping onto the tiny balcony is iconic. Then, escape the crowds and explore the medieval streets behind Via Cappello. Climb the Torre dei Lamberti: Get a panoramic view of the city and Arena from the top of this 84-metre tower. Best visited in the late afternoon. Walk along the Adige River: Walk from Ponte Pietra to Castelvecchio for a quiet loop around the city’s historic centre. Eat like a local: Before the opera, head to a trattoria for risotto all’Amarone or bigoli pasta with duck ragù. Osteria Le Vecete  and Trattoria al Pompiere  are favourites that still feel authentically Veronese. What to Expect at the Opera Dress ranges from smart casual to black tie, especially on gala nights. Bring a cushion if you’ve booked seats on the stone steps, and arrive early to grab a good view. Getting There with Aer Lingus Aer Lingus offers direct flights from Dublin to Verona , making it easy to get to the heart of opera season without the hassle of long layovers. The flight takes just over two and a half hours, and with multiple weekly departures during the summer months, it's simple to plan a weekend around a major performance. Return fares typically range from €140 to €250 , depending on when you book. From Verona Airport, it’s just a 20-minute drive or taxi ride into the city centre, close enough to drop your bags and still make it to aperitivo before the show.

June is Pride Month, a global celebration of LGBTQ+ identity, history, and resilience. What began as a protest has grown into a worldwide movement of visibility, solidarity, and joy. Across cities big and small, Pride takes over the streets with parades, parties, art, and activism. If you’re thinking of traveling this June, here are some of the biggest Pride events around the world - each offering something different. 1. New York City Pride – USA (June 30, 2025) NYC is the birthplace of the modern Pride movement. The first march happened in 1970, a year after the Stonewall Riots. What to expect:  A massive parade down Fifth Avenue, the annual Human Rights Conference, queer art exhibitions, and parties across all five boroughs. Pride Island, NYC Pride’s official music event, draws major acts and thousands of attendees. 2. São Paulo Pride – Brazil (June 22, 2025) It’s the largest Pride parade in the world by sheer numbers - millions line Avenida Paulista each year. What to expect:  Massive, intricate floats playing music,costumes, political messaging, and a truly electric atmosphere. São Paulo’s Pride is deeply political, often focused on LGBTQ+ rights in a country where they remain under threat. 3. Madrid Orgullo (MADO) – Spain (June 28–July 7, 2025) Spain was one of the first countries to legalise same-sex marriage and Madrid Pride is one of Europe’s loudest and proudest. What to expect:  A week of concerts, drag shows, cultural events, and a massive parade that takes over Gran Vía. The Chueca neighborhood becomes the unofficial HQ for parties that go until sunrise. 4. Berlin Pride (Christopher Street Day) – Germany (June 28, 2025) Named after the street where the Stonewall Riots began, Berlin’s CSD is as much about protest as it is about party. What to expect:  A colourful parade with a strong anti-discrimination message, followed by city-wide celebrations. The vibe is very Berlin - a mix of techno and grassroots activism.  5. Toronto Pride – Canada (June 28–30, 2025) One of the most well-organised and inclusive Pride festivals in North America. What to expect:  Family Pride, Trans Pride, the Dyke March, and the iconic main parade on Sunday. The Church-Wellesley Village becomes the centre for parties, performances, and public art. Pride Month is about presence. Around the world, each celebration is a reminder that visibility still matters, and solidarity still changes things.

Most festivals around the world often reflect rich cultures, traditions, and histories. Others however….stand out for their oddity. Here’s a look at the seven most bizarre festivals celebrated globally, each offering a unique look into the weird side of human nature. Most festivals around the world often reflect rich cultures, traditions, and histories. Others however….stand out for their oddity. Here’s a look at the seven most bizarre festivals celebrated globally! 1. La Tomatina – Spain In the small town of Buñol, Spain , the last Wednesday of August transforms into a battleground of squishy, ripe tomatoes. La Tomatina is a festival where participants throw tomatoes at each other, painting the town red in the most literal sense. Originating in 1945 from a local food fight among friends, this event has now evolved into a world-famous spectacle attracting thousands of tomato-tossing enthusiasts. 2. Baby Jumping Festival (El Colacho) – Spain Spain makes another entry with El Colacho , celebrated in Castrillo de Murcia . Held during the feast of Corpus Christi, this festival involves men dressed as the Devil (known as El Colacho) leaping over rows of babies laid on mattresses in the streets. This bizarre ritual, dating back to 1620, is believed to cleanse the infants of original sin and protect them from evil spirits. 3. Monkey Buffet Festival – Thailand In the city of Lopburi , Thailand, the Monkey Buffet Festival is a grand feast for the local monkey population. Every November, over 4,000 kilograms of fruits, vegetables, and sweets are laid out in front of temples for the macaques to enjoy. The festival, which started in 1989 to boost tourism, celebrates the local monkeys, who are considered symbols of good luck and prosperity. 4. Boryeong Mud Festival – South Korea Every July, the coastal city of Boryeong in South Korea hosts the Mud Festival , an event where participants engage in various activities involving mud. From mud wrestling and mud sliding to swimming in a giant mud bath, this festival is both fun and therapeutic. The mud, sourced from the local mud flats, is rich in minerals and is believed to have beneficial properties for the skin. 5. Cooper’s Hill Cheese-Rolling – England In Gloucestershire, England, Cooper’s Hill Cheese-Rolling Festival is a daredevil event where participants chase a nine-pound wheel of Double Gloucester cheese down a steep, rugged hill. The first person to reach the bottom wins the cheese. The festival, with its origins unknown, is notorious for the injuries sustained by participants as they tumble down the hill in pursuit of the rolling cheese. 6. Ivrea Orange Battle – Italy The historic town of Ivrea in Northern Italy hosts a vibrant yet chaotic festival known as the Battle of the Oranges. Held in February, this event commemorates a medieval insurrection against a tyrannical lord. Participants, divided into nine teams, engage in a fierce orange-throwing battle in the town’s squares, turning Ivrea into a sea of orange pulp and juice. 7. Tunarama Festival – Australia Port Lincoln , Australia, is home to the Tunarama Festival , held every January, which features a rather peculiar highlight: the tuna toss. Participants compete to see who can throw a frozen tuna the farthest. Originally started to promote the local tuna fishing industry, the festival also includes seafood feasts, boat races, and a variety of family-friendly activities. .

Summer fashion isn’t just about the perfect sundress or the crisp linen set, it’s the accessories that truly transform your look from simple to standout. Whether you're lounging by the pool or heading to an alfresco dinner, the right details can turn any outfit into a statement. This season, think bold, layered, and unapologetically expressive. Let’s start with layered gold chains , the ultimate summer staple. Whether it’s delicate strands resting against sun-kissed skin or chunky links adding edge to a minimalist dress, gold necklaces bring instant polish. Stack them over swimsuits, linen shirts, or a slip dress for that effortless luxe vibe. Want to add a bit of contrast? Turquoise beads  add a pop of color and a boho edge. Combined with gold, they channel laid-back island energy with a touch of glam. When it comes to wrists, more is more. Stacked multi-colored bracelets , from woven bands to resin bangles, add playfulness and texture. They jingle with every cocktail sip and photograph beautifully against golden hour light. These accessories thrive on variety, so don’t be afraid to mix textures, tones, and origins. Purchase here Earrings are having a major moment this season. Oversized hoops  are back in a big way, gold, silver, tortoiseshell, or embellished, they bring fierce femininity to even the most relaxed looks. Whether you’re in a swimsuit and cover-up or a chic dinner ensemble, hoops draw attention and frame the face beautifully. Pair them with a slicked-back bun or ponytail  to let them shine, plus, it's a practical solution for heat and humidity while looking utterly chic. The beauty of summer accessories is their versatility. A look that starts by the pool can carry you straight to a beachside dinner with just a few tweaks, maybe swap flip-flops for strappy sandals, add a bold lip, and keep those layers of jewelry on display. These pieces tell a story, they show personality, and they give you the freedom to be playful, spontaneous, and stylish, all at once. This summer, think of accessories not as an afterthought but as the foundation of your look. From resort days to rooftop nights, it’s the beads, chains, bangles, and hoops that will have you turning heads. Purchase here

Aer Lingus has unveiled a limited time summer seat and bag sale to destinations across the UK and mainland Europe . Here’s all the info: Aer Lingus is kicking off the summer season with a splash, offering up to 20% off fares & bags to destinations across Europe and the UK. This limited time sale is live now until the 17th of June, for travel from the 1st August to the 22nd October. Whether dreaming of golden beaches or cobblestone city streets, book your late-summer getaway now without breaking the bank. Bask in the Spanish sun with an escape to Tenerife’s volcanic coastlines, the Balearic charm of Palma de Mallorca or the vibrant tapas culture of Malaga . Prefer a city break? Lisbon , Portugal’s sunlit capital, is just a few clicks away. If an Italian summer feels right for you, embrace la dolce vita with a wander through the historic heart of Pisa , or try the world-famous pizza in Naples . For more information and to book flights, visit  aerlingus.com . Offer Details ✍️ 🎁 Offer:  Up to 20% off fares and bags on travel to Europe and the UK (includes Aer Lingus Regional flights operated by Emerald Airlines) 🗓️ Sale dates:  Book before 17th June 🛩️ Travel period:  1st August – 22nd October

Iceland is wild, remote, and unfiltered. And while each season offers something different, August quietly holds the crown as the best time to go. Here’s why. 1. The Weather Hits a Sweet Spot August is as close to “summer” as Iceland gets. Average temperatures range from 10 to 15°C, which may not sound tropical, but in Icelandic terms, it's practically balmy. The wind is less punishing, the rain (usually) more forgiving, and you can explore the outdoors without bundling up like you're headed to the Arctic. What really makes the difference is daylight. Though the midnight sun starts to fade by early August, you’ll still have 16 to 18 hours of daylight - plenty of time to hike, drive, soak in a hot spring, or just sit and take it all in without racing the sunset. 2. Roads Are Open Much of Iceland is only accessible during the summer, especially the Highlands, where there are lava fields, waterfalls, and steaming vents. These areas are only reachable in 4x4 vehicles, and many of the F-roads (unpaved mountain routes) are open for just a few short weeks each year. August is peak access. If you're planning a self-drive adventure, this is the month. The Ring Road is clear, most mountain passes are navigable, and conditions are ideal for road tripping without the white-knuckle driving you’d face in spring or autumn. 3. Nature Shows Off  August is the last full month of Iceland’s short but spectacular summer, and nature makes the most of it. The terrain is impossibly green, rivers are full from glacier melt, and wildflowers still bloom in the countryside. Waterfalls like Skógafoss and Gullfoss are at their most photogenic, and the moss-covered lava fields seem almost unreal. You’ll also find puffins nesting along the cliffs, especially in places like Dyrhólaey and the Westman Islands, but only until late August. Miss this window and you’ll have to wait another year to catch a glimpse of Iceland’s most beloved seabird. 4. Festivals Bring Icelandic Culture to Life August is packed with cultural events. Reykjavik hosts Menningarnótt (Culture Night) in mid-August, a massive celebration of arts, music, food, and fireworks that draws locals from across the country.  Also in August is the quirky and unforgettable Þjóðhátíð in the Westman Islands - a wild, all-night music festival revolving all around tradition, with bonfires and singing. If you want to party with the Icelanders, this is it. 5. Northern Lights In August, Iceland exists in a kind of seasonal limbo, in the best possible way. You still get the endless days and easy access of summer, but by the end of the month, the northern lights can begin to make their first faint appearances, especially in the far north or more remote areas. You might not catch a full display, but there's a chance. It’s the only month where that overlap is possible. If you're thinking about when to go, stop wondering. August is your window. Getting There from Ireland Traveling to Iceland from Ireland is straightforward, especially during the summer. Aer Lingus offers direct flights from Dublin to Reykjavik’s Keflavík International Airport, with flight times just under three hours. In August, multiple weekly departures make it easy to plan a long weekend or a full adventure without complex layovers. Return fares typically range from €160 to €280, depending on how early you book. Once you land, Keflavík is less than an hour from Reykjavik by car or shuttle, putting you in easy reach of the capital.

Abu Dhabi is no longer just a stopover for luxury or business - it’s increasingly making a name for itself as a family-friendly destination. Here’s a look at how each element from theme park visits to beachfront hotels can form the backbone of a well-rounded family holiday in Abu Dhabi! Where to Stay with the Family Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana Located along the Corniche beachfront, Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan is a smart pick for families wanting to balance luxury with laid-back fun. The pool area is one of the largest in Abu Dhabi and includes a dedicated kids’ pool. The private beach means you can go from breakfast to beach ball in minutes, and their family-friendly Horizon Restaurant makes mealtimes easy with international favourites and a relaxed setting. Babysitting services are available too - perfect if the adults want a spa hour or evening walk. Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi This one’s all about variety. Connected directly to Abu Dhabi Mall, it has immediate access to shopping, casual eats, and entertainment - ideal for tweens and teens. Families can book interconnecting rooms or opt for suites with extra space, and the shaded kids’ pool, on-site watersports, and selection of global dining options (from seafood to pizzerias) tick plenty of boxes. There’s even a private beach, and for older kids, kayaking and paddleboarding are available right on your doorstep. Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas A showstopper for the final leg of the trip, Saadiyat Rotana is located along the Saadiyat Island shoreline. The resort has a splash park, lazy river, and an Aladdin’s Cave Kids Club with creative workshops, games, and outdoor fun. The expansive beachfront is calm and shallow, ideal for little swimmers, while parents can relax with a drink at Sim Sim Restaurant or Hamilton’s Gastropub, both of which welcome kids with open arms and family menus. Things to Do with the Kids Abu Dhabi often mixes adrenaline with education, giving families the chance to learn, laugh, and let loose together. Yas Island Abu Dhabi’s answer to an entertainment megaplexYas Island is Abu Dhabi’s answer to an entertainment megaplex. This place is a no-brainer for travelling families, with everything from the world’s fastest rollercoaster at Ferrari World to a cartoon come-to-life at Warner Bros. World. Everything here is engineered for excitement! Even Yas Mall, often included as a “shopping stop,” has soft play centres, family restaurants, and VR gaming zones. You can easily spend two or three days here hopping from ride to ride. Qasr Al Watan For a dose of culture, Qasr Al Watan, the Presidential Palace, has interactive exhibits and stunning architecture that older kids and teens will love. It’s history-meets-holograms, with storytelling about the UAE’s founding and traditions. Be sure to catch the evening light show if your timing allows. Saadiyat Island Cultural District While little ones splash around the resort, older children and parents can explore the nearby cultural institutions. The Louvre Abu Dhabi, in particular, is wonderfully family-oriented, with a Children’s Museum, hands-on creative spaces, and a café perfect for post-art snacks. Corniche and Marina Walks Ideal for unwinding between excursions, the Corniche area has beaches, parks, and waterfront cycling paths. Grab an ice cream and enjoy the sea views. It’s safe, clean, and stroller-friendly - especially around late afternoon when the heat lifts. Eating Out with Kids Abu Dhabi is surprisingly easy when it comes to food. Most restaurants cater to children with dedicated menus and flexible dishes. Dino’s at Pearl Rotana is a classic family winner, with pizza, pasta, and staff who don’t blink at a dropped fork or a fussy toddler. At Sim Sim, buffet dining makes everyone happy - even the picky eaters. Flight Connections from Ireland Families can fly direct from Dublin to Abu Dhabi with Etihad Airways , with a comfortable flight time of just under 8 hours. The airline’s inflight entertainment includes a strong kids' section, and family seating options make the long-haul journey that bit more manageable.

There’s no shortage of wine in France, but the best experiences go beyond a basic tasting. If you're travelling for more than just the wine list, here are five standout wineries across France that offer something special, along with nearby hotels that turn a good visit into a great escape. 1. Domaine Vacheron – Sancerre, Loire Valley This biodynamic family estate in the heart of Sancerre is known for razor-sharp Sauvignon Blancs and elegant Pinot Noirs that punch well above their weight. The Vacheron family were early adopters of biodynamic farming in the region, and their commitment to terroir shows in every bottle. Tastings are by appointment only and feel more like private conversations than sales pitches. You’ll walk the vineyards, tour the spotless cellar, and taste wines that redefine what Sancerre can be. Where to stay:   La Côte des Monts Damnés  in Chavignol is a charming boutique inn with sweeping vineyard views and a restaurant that locals book weeks in advance. 2. Château de Pommard – Burgundy Château de Pommard is one of Burgundy’s most recognisable names, but it’s not resting on reputation. Under new ownership, it has reinvented itself with biodynamic practices, immersive tastings, and a fresh take on wine education. The “Climats Experience” is a must - an in-depth look at Burgundy’s complex vineyard system paired with top-tier Pinot Noir. The château also houses an impressive art collection, and have recently redesigned their tasting rooms. Where to stay:  Just 10 minutes away, Hostellerie de Levernois  offers Michelin-star dining, beautiful grounds, and understated luxury without pretension. 3. Domaine Tempier – Bandol, Provence Provence is best known for rosé, but Domaine Tempier is a different story. This historic estate, located high in the hills near the Mediterranean, helped revive the Bandol appellation and has become legendary for its structured, age-worthy Mourvèdre-based reds. The late Lulu and Lucien Peyraud put Bandol back on the map, and their legacy lives on in the vineyard’s deep connection to land and tradition. Tastings here are quiet, personal affair. No buses, no crowds, just serious(-ly good) wine and southern French hospitality. Where to stay:   Hotel Le Castellet  offers a peaceful, luxurious retreat just a short drive away, complete with a spa and a two-star Michelin restaurant. 4. Château La Coste – Aix-en-Provence If you like your Syrah with a side of architecture, Château La Coste is your dream vineyard. Equal parts winery, art gallery, and open-air museum, this contemporary estate near Aix-en-Provence brings together organic winemaking with world-class design, and delicious food.  Where to stay:  The Villa La Coste , on the estate grounds, is a design-forward luxury hotel that manages to be both bold and completely serene. 5. Maison Tamboite x Château Fonplégade – Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux Château Fonplégade, a biodynamic Grand Cru Classé estate in Saint-Émilion, has partnered with bespoke French bicycle maker Maison Tamboite to offer a rare kind of wine journey - cycling through vineyards on handcrafted bikes, ending with private tastings in an 18th-century château. It’s Bordeaux, but without the formality. The wines are polished and precise, the experience completely personal. Where to stay:   Hostellerie de Plaisance  in the medieval heart of Saint-Émilion offers old-world charm with serious culinary clout. In France, it’s easy to find good wine. What’s harder, but far more rewarding, is finding wineries that slow things down and give you a taste of the place behind the label. These five deliver all that and more, each in their own way. Book ahead, stay nearby, and give yourself time!

River cruising has come a long way from stiff dinners and identical daily excursions. These days, river cruise lines cater to specific tastes - some lean into luxury, others into value or adventure. The trick is knowing which one fits the kind of trip you actually want to take. Here’s a breakdown of what each of the top river cruise companies is best known for, so you can book with confidence instead of guesswork. Riviera Travel - Best for No-Fuss Value and Smart Itineraries Riviera Travel has made a name for itself by offering high-quality river cruises at surprisingly reasonable prices. They have beautifully maintained ships, polished service, and a strong emphasis on expert-led excursions, delivering a refined experience without the inflated cost.  Riviera also stands out for its flexibility. Unlike most cruise lines, they offer “cruise-only” options for independent travellers who want the freedom to organise their own flights and pre- or post-cruise stays. Where Riviera really shines is in its itineraries. Their routes through the Rhine, Danube, and Douro are well-paced and packed with substance, offering more time in port and fewer upsells. And unlike many river cruise lines, Riviera lets you opt out of excursions if you’d rather explore on your own.  You won’t find gimmicks here. Just smart itineraries, elegant design, and a genuine focus on what matters - the destination, the history, and the journey.  Best for:  First-time river cruisers, independent travellers, and those who want value without feeling like they’re cutting corners. Travelmarvel by APT - Best for Affordable Adventure with Aussie Style Travelmarvel, the more casual sibling of APT, has carved out its niche as a go-to for travellers who want the comfort of a high-end cruise with a lighter, more sociable atmosphere. It’s particularly popular with Australian travellers, and that shows in its friendly service and laid-back onboard culture. Their ships are sleek and modern, staff are genuinely warm, and itineraries are thoughtfully curated to show off the best of each destination - without over-scheduling your day. The standout here is flexibility - you get the security of a guided experience, but with enough breathing room to explore at your own pace. It's the perfect choice for travellers who want substance and style, but who also like their holidays relaxed and social! Best for:  Social travellers, mid-budget explorers, and anyone looking for a stress-free cruise with a warm atmosphere. Viking River Cruises - Best for Culture and Grown-Up Luxury Viking is one of the most recognisable names in river cruising, and for good reason. The experience is smooth, refined, and focused on what’s off the ship more than on it. Every cruise comes with at least one included excursion per day, often led by local experts, and there’s a strong emphasis on history, food, and culture. The ships themselves are beautifully designed in that quiet, Scandinavian way. Sleek lines, natural light, and minimalist comfort. Viking is also adults-only, which adds to the calm. Best for:  History & culture lovers. Scenic - Best for All-Inclusive Luxury Scenic doesn’t do half measures. When they say all-inclusive, they mean it. Gourmet dining, excursions, drinks, gratuities, transfers, even personal butlers. It’s a true luxury product, and everything from the spacious suites to the onboard events reflects that. Scenic also invests in tech - its “Scenic Tailormade” GPS devices let you do self-guided walking tours in port, and the ships often feature glass-walled lounges and sunken terraces that make watching the river go by feel like a private show. Best for:  Luxury travellers, honeymooners, and anyone who never wants to pull out their wallet once onboard! AmaWaterways - Best for Active Travellers and Wellness Seekers AmaWaterways offers some of the most balanced river cruises out there, especially if you're someone who gets bored just sitting back. Their cruises are ideal for active travellers who still want a premium experience, with guided bike rides, hiking excursions, onboard yoga classes, and wellness hosts on many sailings. They also score high marks for food, especially with their “Chef’s Table” dining experience and wine-focused itineraries through places like Bordeaux or the Rhine Valley. Best for:  Active couples, foodies, and anyone who wants a river cruise with a little more energy and movement. Matching the cruise line to your style is the difference between a nice holiday and the kind you talk about for years.

The word "safari" usually conjures up images that are not exactly child-friendly territory...But not all safaris are created equal. Across Africa, a growing number of lodges and reserves are tailoring the experience for families, designing trips where children can get close to wildlife, learn about conservation, and still be back in bed before sundown. Additionally, these aren’t watered-down safaris. They’re carefully considered, safety-conscious adventures that spark a lifelong sense of wonder - without sacrificing the true experience of the wild. Here are 5 of the best safari experiences for families who want to travel deeper without worrying about the little ones. 1. Madikwe Game Reserve – South Africa Best for: Younger kids and first-time safari families Located in South Africa’s malaria-free northwest, Madikwe is a very rare safari gem: Big 5 territory with zero risk of malaria and lodges that genuinely welcome children. Many lodges here, like Jaci’s Safari Lodge  and Madikwe Safari Lodge , have family suites, child-focused game drives, and junior ranger programs where kids learn how to track animals, identify spoor, and respect the bush. Parents can enjoy sundowners while kids are busy making plaster casts of animal tracks or baking bush bread. 2. Sanctuary Olonana – Masai Mara, Kenya Best for: Culture, wildlife, and comfort Located right along the Mara River, Sanctuary Olonana mixes local Maasai culture and luxury in a way that works beautifully for families. The lodge offers tailored game drives, nature walks for younger children, and hands-on cultural activities like bead-making and fire-starting with Maasai guides. Kids are introduced to the savannah gently - spotting hippos from camp, learning about lion pride dynamics, and visiting nearby villages for a more human connection to the landscape. 3. Tswalu Kalahari – South Africa Best for: Privacy, flexibility, and unusual wildlife Located in the remote Kalahari Desert, Tswalu offers something most reserves can’t: complete freedom. Each booking comes with a private guide, vehicle, and tracker, which means your schedule is yours. Need to stop every 10 minutes for snack breaks or bathroom runs? No problem. It’s also home to wildlife that’s not easy to spot elsewhere - meerkats, aardvarks, and pangolins. The reserve is malaria-free and full of educational opportunities, like stargazing to guided bush walks focused on animal tracks, insects, and the delicate desert ecosystem. 4. Lewa Wilderness – Lewa Conservancy, Kenya Best for: Conservation learning and safe adventure Lewa Conservancy is at the forefront of wildlife protection, and its safari experiences reflect that. Families staying at Lewa Wilderness can expect traditional game drives but also camel rides, forest hikes, and visits to local schools and conservation centres. It’s an active, immersive experience where children are encouraged to ask questions and get their hands dirty (sometimes literally). The area is malaria-free most of the year, and the focus is very much on sustainability and education, not just ticking off animal sightings. 5. Etosha National Park – Namibia (with Private Guide) Best for: Self-drive families ready for a bit more independence If your kids are a little older and you're comfortable with a road trip, Etosha offers an has wide-open landscapes, incredible game viewing, and affordability. While it’s not designed exclusively for kids, families who hire a private guide or join a tailored tour can make it very child-friendly. Waterholes throughout the park mean you often don’t need to drive far to see wildlife, and the rest camps have pools and playgrounds. Combine that with Namibia’s low malaria risk in the dry season and excellent roads, and it’s a great choice for adventurous families with a smaller budget. A safari with kids doesn’t have to mean compromise - it just needs the right planning!

Cleveland becomes Metropolis in the July 2025 release of Superman, with the film showcasing some of the city’s most iconic locations. Directed by James Gunn, the film stars David Corenswet as Superman, Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luther. Cleveland was chosen for its cinematic appeal and to honour its legacy as the birthplace of Superman’s creators, Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster. Cleveland Filming Locations Public Square, including the Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument and surrounding buildings, was transformed into Metropolis’ bustling centre. The Leader Building stood in as the exterior of the Daily Planet. Key Tower became the headquarters for the fictional Stagg Enterprises. The Cleveland Arcade provided a stunning setting for one of the film’s most memorable moments — a romantic kiss between Superman and Lois Lane beneath the historic glass ceiling. Progressive Field, home of the Cleveland Guardians baseball team, hosted an explosive action sequence. Cleveland City Hall transformed into Metropolis’ City Hall. Detroit–Superior Bridge is featured in a high-intensity confrontation. Ontario Street and the former Cleveland Greyhound Station were part of fast-paced street scenes. PNC Plaza offered dynamic urban visuals. Terminal Tower appeared in sweeping skyline shots of Metropolis. Superior Avenue, temporarily renamed “Concord Street,” was reimagined as a major city thoroughfare. Headlands Beach State Park in Mentor, about a 30-minute drive east from downtown, was used to depict a vintage U.S. Army base. Cleveland's transformation into Metropolis highlights the city's architectural beauty and underscores its significance in Superman history. Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, two Cleveland teenagers with a passion for science fiction and comics, created Superman in 1932, which went to become the first of the superheroes ever to see print. Fans can visit the site of Superman creators’ Cleveland family homes. "This is the house where Superman was born," reads a sign hanging on the fence in front of 10622 Kimberly Ave, where in 1932 18-year-old Jerry Siegel invented the Man of Steel. The apartment house where Joe Shuster, who illustrated Superman, lived is now a vacant lot, but the fence around it has been hung with 2x3-foot metal panels that reproduce the cover and first 13 pages of Action Comics #1, the first Superman story, which was published on April 18, 1938. There are still signs throughout the area sharing Superman’s Cleveland origin story. At Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, there’s a display of memorabilia. There’s another display at the Cleveland Public Library, where Siegel and Shuster both drew inspiration. You can also visit the observation deck at the Terminal Tower. The Siegel and Shuster Society, a nonprofit dedicated to celebrating Superman's creation in Cleveland, is spearheading the planning of Siegel and Shuster Tribute Plaza outside the Huntington Convention Centre of Cleveland. The project will feature a Superman statue designed by a local artist; statues of Siegel, his wife Joanne (upon whom Lois Lane was modelled) and Shuster; and a phone booth famous for the hero's quick costume changes. Click here to read more. Emily Lauer, Vice President of PR and Communications for Destination Cleveland said, “"We are thrilled that James Gunn brought the latest Superman movie home to Cleveland — the city where the Man of Steel was created through the imaginations of Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster. Cleveland’s rich history, vibrant neighbourhoods and urban scenery make it the perfect setting for an iconic storyline like Superman. We can’t wait for the world to see our city as we continue building Cleveland’s reputation as a destination for creativity, culture and storytelling." For further information on Cleveland, and to craft your perfect Superman adventure, visit www.thisiscleveland.com .

If you’re after a music festival that doesn’t follow the usual formula, Primavera Sound Barcelona is it. Held every June at Parc del Fòrum, right on the Mediterranean, it’s known for smart programming, unexpected artist pairings, and a crowd that’s truly there for the music. The 2025 lineup is one of its strongest in years, mixing big-names with cult favourites and new voices worth paying attention to.  Who’s Playing? Charli XCX  returns with Brat summer, while LCD Soundsystem headlines with their usual dance-punk. Jamie xx  is set to bring one of the most anticipated electronic sets of the weekend. Sabrina Carpenter  adds some spice, coming off a huge 2024 with strong vocals and even stronger stage presence. Haim  will be back with their signature mix of rock & pop, while FKA twigs  brings something entirely different - an experimental, art-driven performance. Ireland’s own Fontaines D.C.  continue their rise with their post-punk music, and Chappell Roan  makes her Primavera debut. Sturgill Simpson  adds some alt-country grit to the mix, and Beach House  returns for a dream-pop set that’ll likely draw one of the festival’s biggest evening crowds. Other notable names include Turnstile , Idles , ANOHNI and the Johnsons , TV on the Radio , Black Country, New Road , Stereolab , and Beabadoobee  - all delivering something fun and fresh. Tickets are still available, but hard to find, so make sure you’re only purchasing from the official retailer website or trusted resellers. Getting There with Aer Lingus Traveling from Ireland to Primavera Sound is simple with Aer Lingus , which offers direct flights from Dublin to Barcelona-El Prat. The flight takes just over two hours, and if you book early, return fares typically land between €90 and €150 . Once you land, the festival site at Parc del Fòrum is about 30 minutes by taxi or metro from the airport. Public transport is frequent, straightforward, and designed to handle large events like Primavera.