BRUSSELS (AP) — Fallout from a cyberattack that disrupted check-in systems at several European airports extended into a second full day on Sunday, as passengers faced dozens of canceled and delayed flights — and the impact poised to worsen for at least one major airport.
Brussels Airport, seemingly the hardest hit, said it asked airlines to cancel nearly 140 departing flights scheduled for Monday because a U.S.-based software system provider “is not yet able to deliver a new secure version of the check-in system.” The airport said 25 outbound flights were canceled on Saturday and 50 on Sunday.
Starting late Friday, airports in Berlin, Brussels and London were hit by disruptions to electronic systems that snarled up check-in and sent airline staffers trying options like handwriting boarding passes or using backup laptops. Many other European airports were unaffected.
The cyberattack affected software of Collins Aerospace, whose systems help passengers check in, print boarding passes and bag tags, and dispatch their luggage. The U.S.-based company on Saturday cited a “cyber-related disruption” to its software at “select” airports in Europe.
It was not immediately clear who might be behind the cyberattack, but experts said it could turn out to be hackers, criminal organizations or state actors.
The European Commission, the executive branch of the 27-nation European Union, said that aviation safety and air traffic control were unaffected. There was currently no indication of a widespread or severe attack, while the origin of the incident remained under investigation, it added.
Half of Monday’s flights from Brussels Airport canceled
While departure boards for London’s Heathrow and Berlin’s Brandenburg airports were showing signs of smoother arrivals and departures on Sunday, Brussels Airport was still facing considerable issues.
Brussels Airport said in an email Sunday that it had asked airlines to cancel half of the 276 scheduled departing flights on Monday, “because Collins Aerospace is not yet able to deliver a new secure version of the check-in system.” Cancellations and delays will continue as long as manual check-in is necessary, it said.
RTX Corp., the parent company of Collins Aerospace, did not immediately respond to two emails Sunday seeking comment.
On Saturday, the aviation and defense technology company said in a statement that it was working to resolve the issue: “The impact is limited to electronic customer check-in and baggage drop and can be mitigated with manual check-in operations.”
Brussels Airport said it nonetheless was able to maintain 85% of scheduled departures over the weekend thanks to the deployment of extra staff by airport partners “and the fact that self bag drop and online check-in are still operational.”
The cyberattack affected only computer systems at check-in desks, not self-service kiosks, airport spokesperson Ihsane Chioua Lekhli said, and teams were turning to alternative backup systems and pulling out laptop computers to help cope with the impact.
The airports advised passengers to check the status of their flights before traveling to the airports, and using alternative check-in methods.
“Work continues to resolve and recover from Friday’s outage of a Collins Aerospace airline system that impacted check-in,” a Heathrow statement said. “We apologize to those who have faced delays, but by working together with airlines, the vast majority of flights have continued to operate.”
A rolling message Sunday on the Brandenburg Airport’s web page said: “Due to a systems outage at a service provider, there are longer waiting times. Please use online check-in, self-service check-in and the fast bag drop service.”
HONOLULU (AP) — The risk of direct impacts from Hurricane Kiko decreased Monday as the tropical cyclone showed signs it would pass to the north of the Hawaiian Islands, forecasters said.
Kiko was a Category 1 hurricane and was expected to lose intensity throughout the day, according to an advisory issued by the National Hurricane Center.
With maximum sustained winds around 85 mph (140 kph), Kiko was centered roughly 350 miles (560 kilometers) east-northeast of Hilo, Hawaii, and about 515 miles (830 kilometers) east of Honolulu.
The hurricane was traveling northwest at 15 mph (24 kph).
Kiko could still send large swells to eastern-facing shores in the island chain, with possible life-threatening surf and rip currents, forecasters said.
DIXON, Calif. (AP) — The owners of a giant Northern California corn maze once crowned the world’s largest want visitors to remember that there is fun in getting lost.
“It is confusing. It’s exciting, and in a world of GPS and constant signage, you always know where you are, where you’re going,” said Tayler Cooley, whose family owns Cool Patch Pumpkins. “When you’re in the corn, everything looks the same until you pop up on a bridge and you’re like, ‘Oh wait, I’m all the way over here. I thought I was over there.’”
The pumpkin patch and corn maze along Interstate 80 between Sacramento and San Francisco are open once again for the fall season through Halloween. Back in 2007 and again in 2014, Cool Patch Pumpkins earned a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s largest corn maze.
The maze — spread out over 40 acres (16.2 hectares) — typically takes at least 45 minutes to complete and features five different bridges that allow maze-goers to rise above the stalks. It is also known for the elaborate designs the team creates in the maze that can be seen from overhead. This year’s maze celebrates farmers. Previous seasons honored veterans and first responders with giant murals included in the maze design.
“Everything is done by hand,” Cooley said. “We want to communicate something fun and exciting, and then we build our pathways around that.”
On a recent afternoon, visitors from near and far wound their way through the maze.
“I have no sense of direction, and we could spend all day here. That’s fine. We have water. We’ll survive, three days,” said Ryan Moore, who was visiting from Hawaii.
Likewise, Shelley Tang from Redwood City, California, joked there is always corn to eat if they get lost.
“My children have a better sense of direction than me, so I’ll be following them,” she said.
A corn maze in Quebec, Canada, as well as those in Minnesota and Illinois, also boast record-breaking mazes, either by acreage or mileage.
Beyond the maze, Cool Patch features a corn bath for toddlers full of 150,000 pounds (68 kilograms) of dried corn.
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This story has been corrected to show that Cooley’s first name is spelled Tayler, not Taylor, to show that Tang’s first name is spelled Shelley, not Shelly, and to remove the incorrect pronoun “his” in the fourth paragraph. It also clarifies that Cooley is part of the family that owns Cool Patch Pumpkins, not the sole owner.
L-Charge, pioneer of off-grid ultra-fast EV charging, appointed Stephen Kelley CEO to accelerate U.S. fleet electrification by scaling Charging-as-a-Service solutions that bypass grid bottlenecks.
MENLO PARK, Calif., October 14, 2025 (Newswire.com)
– L-Charge, pioneer of off-grid ultra-fast EV charging, appointed Stephen Kelley CEO to accelerate U.S. fleet electrification by scaling Charging-as-a-Service solutions that bypass grid bottlenecks. His appointment comes as U.S. fleets face surging electrification demand, heightening the need for scalable off-grid charging solutions. The newly emerging field of off-grid “Charging-as-a-Service” (CaaS) and Power-as-a-Service (PaaS) is rapidly gaining traction as fleets and property owners seek to circumnavigate grid constraints and accelerate the transportation industry’s conversion to EVs.
In the past year alone, L-Charge has delivered more than 3 million kWh to fleets and that energy has powered more than 9 million electric miles, helping operators electrify faster by overcoming grid delays and ensuring cost-predictable charging. Recent deployments include powering 400+ daily charging sessions for Tower Mobility‘s Los Angeles ride-sharing fleet. Kelley’s appointment underscores the company’s sharpened focus on scaling partnerships, accelerating deployments, and expanding its Charging-as-a-Service (CaaS) and Power-as-a-Service (PaaS) offerings.
Mr. Kelley brings more than two decades of clean energy and mobility leadership, including six successful exits. Widely recognized as an entrepreneur in clean energy and mobility, he most recently served as Chief Revenue Officer at InCharge Energy, where he scaled revenues nearly tenfold and secured major fleet and OEM partnerships. He previously co-founded Green Charge Networks (later Engie Storage), helping lead its growth and acquisition by Engie. His career spans solar, storage, and e-mobility, consistently turning complex energy challenges into quantifiable customer value. Under Kelley’s leadership, L-Charge plans to establish its Charging-as-a-Service and Power-as-a-Service platforms as the preferred alternatives for fleets, enabling them to sidestep costly utility delays and transition to EVs on predictable timelines.
“L-Charge was created to rethink how fleets access reliable charging when the grid can’t keep up,” said Dmitry Lashin, Founder and CTO. “Our off-grid technology delivers power immediately, without multi-year delays. With Stephen’s experience building and scaling clean-tech companies, we can expand these solutions nationwide and speed the transportation industry’s shift to EVs.”
Leadership for the Future
To position L-Charge for long-term success, the company has strengthened its leadership team with a balance of growth and continuity:
Stephen Kelley, Chief Executive Officer – Growth-focused leader with six start-up exits, deep experience in scaling energy and mobility ventures, and a track record of building high-impact partnerships.
Dmitry Lashin, Chief Technology Officer – Founder and technical architect of L-Charge, Dmitry continues to lead innovation and R&D, leveraging 20 years of power generation expertise to ensure the company’s technology remains reliable, efficient, and future-ready.
Stephen Soroosh, Chief Operating Officer & Head of Product – With more than 25 years in the automotive industry and over a decade bringing innovative products to market, Stephen oversees product development and operations, ensuring seamless execution for fleet and infrastructure partners.
Continuity and Acceleration
The leadership realignment emphasizes both continuity of technical vision and accelerated commercial growth. Lashin remains central to technology innovation, while Kelley and Soroosh bring expanded focus to scaling market impact and delivering industry-leading customer experiences.
“Our goal is not just to deploy chargers, but to solve one of the biggest bottlenecks in U.S. electrification: grid connection delays,” said Stephen Kelley, CEO at L-Charge.“Off-grid CaaS models are the future of rapid fleet electrification, and L-Charge is at the forefront of making that future real.”
About L-Charge
L-Charge delivers off-grid ultra-fast Charging-as-a-Service (CaaS) and Power-as-a-Service (PaaS) to fleets, property owners, and municipalities awaiting grid connection. Powered by RNG and other clean fuels, L-Charge’s platforms provide immediate, scalable power where it’s needed most – helping fleets avoid grid delays, cut emissions, and electrify faster. In the past year alone, the company delivered over 3 million kWh to fleets across the U.S.
BARCELONA, Spain, October 14, 2025 (Newswire.com)
– Lodgify, the vacation rental management software company, will host the inaugural Independent Host Summit on Nov. 12, marking a milestone moment for the independent short-term rental (STR) community. The free online event is expected to attract more than 10,000 participants worldwide, making it the biggest virtual gathering built specifically for independent hosts – from side hustlers to full-scale STR businesses.
“Independent hosts and small-scale property managers are the backbone of the vacation rental industry, but much like running any small business, the work can feel isolating,” said Shaun Shirazian, CEO of Lodgify. “This Summit is about turning independence into community – giving hosts a space to share experiences, gain practical insights, and walk away ready to grow their businesses on their own terms.”
Program Highlights:
A three-part program with workshops, strategy sessions, and technology talks designed for every stage of hosting – from the first booking to building a brand that lasts.
Insights from industry partners, including Baselane, Booking.com, PriceLabs, and Turno.
Real-world perspectives from hosts Mercedes Sanchez (MBX Homes, Los Angeles) and Kerri Gibson (Chalets Hygge).
An exclusive first look at Lodgify 2.0 and the company’s 2026 product roadmap.
“The Independent Host Summit is about more than just stories – it’s about helping small hosts design their businesses the way they want them to be,” said Kerri Gibson, owner of Chalets Hygge and a featured speaker at the Summit. “The guidance is practical and actionable, so no matter where you are in your hosting journey, you walk away with ideas you can use right away.”
Attendees will gain early access to tools shaping the next stage of the industry, while the event underscores Lodgify’s vision to make hosting effortless – less to manage, more to love – and the growing influence of independent operators in a space often led by larger platforms.
The Independent Host Summit will be hosted entirely online, making it accessible to hosts worldwide.
About Lodgify Lodgify is an all-in-one vacation rental management platform that empowers independent hosts and property managers with the tools to grow their businesses. The platform enables hosts, regardless of their level of technical knowledge or experience, to easily create their own website, accept direct bookings and payments, and synchronize all of their property data, reservations, and guest communications across major OTA channels like Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, Expedia, Google Vacation Rentals, and more. It centralizes all property management tasks so hosts can prioritize increasing occupancy and visibility and providing excellent service to their guests. Lodgify was founded in Barcelona, Spain in 2012 and now has over 330 employees working remotely across the world. For more information, visit www.lodgify.com.
Chef de Cuisine Alex Povall and Somerset restaurateurs Jules & Steve Horrell celebrate provenance, generosity, and the art of convivial dining
Serra, the Southern Mediterranean-inspired restaurant at The Chancery Rosewood, will offer a new dinner series in collaboration with Somerset-based farm to table dining concept Horrell & Horrell. With the first dinner taking place on Wednesday 29 October 2025, the series will spotlight the bounty of the seasons and the ethos of working hand-in-hand with farmers and growers.
At the heart of this collaboration are Jules and Steve Horrell, whose Somerset smallholding has become one of the UK’s most celebrated dining experiences. Known for their immersive fire-led feasts that showcase ingredients reared, grown and foraged on their land, Horrell & Horrell embody the spirit of generosity, hospitality and seasonality that also defines Serra’s approach.
“Our dinners at home are always about generosity and bringing people together,” say Jules and Steve Horrell. “Working with Alex at Serra allows us to take that spirit from Somerset to Mayfair, sharing what’s in season on our land – whether reared, grown, or foraged – and celebrating it around the table.”
For Chef de Cuisine Alex Povall, working with small-scale producers has been central to Serra since opening. Horrell & Horrell are already among those he sources from regularly, and this series brings that relationship into the dining room – creating dinner party-style evenings that celebrate the best of the season at that moment in time. Each supper in the series will be a new moment of collaboration, shaped by what is in season on the Horrells’ Somerset Smallholding, from produce reared on the land to items foraged from their kitchen garden, orchard and hedgerows.
“Horrell & Horrell are exactly the kind of producers who inspire the way we cook at Serra,” says Chef de Cuisine Alex Povall. “They live by the seasons, and every meal is a reflection of what’s at its best right now. This series gives us the chance to bring that same energy to Mayfair, with a menu shaped by the land”.
Menus will remain undisclosed until the evening itself, encouraging guests to embrace the conviviality of shared dining. Dietary requirements will, of course, be thoughtfully accommodated.
The wider Chancery Rosewood team will also lend their expertise: Liana Oster, Director of Bars, will craft a bespoke welcome aperitif to begin each evening, while Jeffrey Koren, Director of Wine, will design an optional wine pairing to complement Povall’s ingredient-led cooking.
The first three dinners will take place on Wednesday 29 October 2025, Wednesday 26 November 2025 and Wednesday 26 March 2026.
Reservations are priced at £95 per person for a four-course menu with welcome aperitif included. An optional wine pairing is available, curated by Jeffrey Koren, at an additional £50 supplement.
Horrell & Horrell’s range of seasonal products – from jams and chutneys to pickles and sauces made with produce from their Somerset smallholding – will also be available at GSQ, The Chancery Rosewood’s neighbourhood delicatessen. This new retail offering allows guests to experience a taste of the collaboration at home, extending Serra’s ethos of provenance and generosity beyond the restaurant.
Reservations for the dinners are open now and can be made at:
Le Cordon Bleu London marked a historic milestone on Friday 12th September, as the institute welcomed graduates back to its first-ever Alumni Chapter event at CORD by Le Cordon Bleu Restaurant, Fleet Street.
Coinciding with Le Cordon Bleu’s 130th anniversary this year, the exclusive evening brought together more than 100 alumni from across the world of gastronomy, hospitality and beyond. With a target of 130 attendees to reflect the school’s anniversary year, the event underscored the institute’s enduring influence and global network, which today spans more than 20 countries and over 35 schools.
Throughout the evening, alumni reconnected over canapés and drinks at CORD – Le Cordon Bleu London’s fine dining restaurant – while also expanding their professional networks.
The evening also featured the first ever Le Cordon Bleu London Alumni Awards, recognising outstanding achievements across the alumni community. These were voted for by other alumni:
· Contribution to Gastronomy & Fine-Dining: Woongchul Park & Bomee Ki, the husband-and-wife duo behind Michelin-starred restaurant Sollip
· Contribution to Food & Media: Kerth Gumbs, acclaimed chef and television personality from Fenchurch Restaurant
· Recognition for Entrepreneurship: Charlotte O’Kelly, founder of Astrid Bakery
· Alumni Choice Award: Maciej Pisarek, Demi Pastry Chef de Partie at The Savoy and Young Chef award winner
· Le Cordon Bleu Ambassador Award: Salina Campbell, Joli
Emil Minev, Culinary Arts Director at Le Cordon Bleu London, said:
“This was a truly special moment in our 130-year history. The Alumni Chapter event demonstrated the power of the Le Cordon Bleu network – a family of graduates who have taken their skills and creativity into kitchens, bakeries, hotels and businesses around the world. We are proud to celebrate their achievements and look forward to growing this tradition in years to come.”
As part of Le Cordon Bleu’s 130th anniversary year, the evening offered an opportunity to celebrate the institute’s alumni community and the many paths they have taken since graduation. Le Cordon Bleu London offers a wide range of diploma programmes across cuisine, pâtisserie, wine, nutrition and hospitality management, as well as an extensive selection of short courses designed for both aspiring professionals and enthusiastic amateurs.
First-look images reveal refreshed design as new Spa Director takes the helm
Cameron House, the iconic five-star resort on the banks of Loch Lomond, has unveiled a £300,000 redesign of its award-winning Cameron Spa, refreshing key wellness facilities and appointing a new Spa Director to lead its next chapter.
The investment includes a revitalised ground-floor indoor pool, which has undergone a full refurbishment, along with the hydro and hot tub areas. Guests accessing the changing facilities on both levels of the spa will find new showers, premium accessories and lockers featuring a new locking system.
For the hydro area, there are new showers with LED coloured features for an invigorating sensory experience, complemented by a captivating light box feature on the wall. The iconic rooftop infinity pool has also been refreshed, offering breathtaking views in an unforgettable setting.
Contemporary finishes blend with natural materials across the redesigned interiors, including a striking ceramic and marble feature wall, organic graphite and green mosaic tiling, and floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the resort’s incredible countryside views over the scenic golf course.
Dining outlet Café Spa has extended its opening hours (now 9 am–5 pm) and introduced a new menu to complement the all-day wellness experience. For those looking for something else before or after a spa day, The Clubhouse offers a selection of hearty favourites and is steps away.
The £300,000 project reflects the growing demand for high-quality spa and wellbeing experiences in Scotland, reinforcing Cameron House’s position as one of Scotland’s leading luxury destinations.
New Spa Director Appointed
Coinciding with the re-launch, Cameron House has appointed Gillian McGraffin as its new Spa Director. A seasoned leader with over 25 years in the luxury spa and leisure industry, Gillian brings a wealth of experience from top-tier properties including Grantley Hall, Cowley Manor, and The Grand Hotel Brighton.
Known for her expertise in launching and scaling five-star spa experiences, Gillian will lead the next chapter of growth at Cameron Spa, focusing on innovation, guest experience, and team development.
Gillian McGraffin, Spa Director, said: “I’m thrilled to be joining Cameron House at such an exciting time. The transformation gives us an incredible platform to build on the exceptional service the team already delivers, and I’m looking forward to working with such talented colleagues to create memorable experiences for every guest.
“From its signature rooftop infinity pool overlooking Loch Lomond to its curated treatment menu, Cameron Spa continues to offer one of Scotland’s most distinctive wellness escapes.”
Nestled beside The Carrick Championship golf course and Loch Lomond, Cameron Spa offers a full suite of wellness amenities including a hydrotherapy pool, sauna, steam room, and relaxation areas. Guests can also enjoy a wide range of treatments, from massages and facials to advanced body therapies, all delivered by expert therapists.
Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a city where East meets West.
I would say that five days is the norm for staying in Sarajevo, but if a visitor has only three days, they can still experience the culture, enjoy the surrounding nature, and learn about its interesting history.
Meet Bosnia
Welcome to the perfect spot where curiosity meets excitement – every trip here is your chance to see the world with fresh eyes and an open heart ready for adventure.
– Experience the best of Bosnia and Herzegovina in 3 days – HERE – Mostar Tour – Full Day guided tour – HERE – Fall of Yugoslavia – Sarajevo Siege Tour – HERE … check all the tours here.
Our team feels like a close-knit family, made up of folks from all walks of life-sociology, economics, and more – bringing together a mix of expertise and a real love for helping guests connect deeply with the places they explore.
Overview over Sarajevo, Bosnia Herzegovina.
Day 1: Culture
The definition of culture is very complex, but in a nutshell, it represents everything created by a certain group of people. This includes both material elements, such as food, architecture and art, and non-material elements, such as way of life and language.
For most visitors who have never been to Sarajevo before, the best way to experience the culture is to simply walk the city streets and hear stories about the city. Sarajevo’s old town is one of the easiest in Europe to navigate. You could see it in an hour, but why limit yourself to just that? Why not book a walking tour and hear the stories that shaped Sarajevo?
For example, there’s the story of how Bosnia begins where logic ends, as illustrated by the fact that the Sarajevo beer factory was opened by Muslims (Ottoman Turks) in 1864, and the Town Hall was built in an Islamic architectural style by Austro-Hungarians, who were mostly Catholics. You can learn about the culture of drinking coffee and the concept of ‘ćejf’, which is hard to translate but could be described as ‘the pleasure of doing things slowly and in an unhurried fashion’.
You can also learn about the culture of religious tolerance — Sarajevo has four different religious temples within a 950-metre radius, the youngest of which is the Ashkenazi Synagogue, built in 1902 — and the stubbornness of the proud Bosnian man, as illustrated by the story of how the Inat kuća (House of Spite) was moved brick by brick from one side of the river to the other.
Jewish heritage tour in Sarajevo, Bosnia Herzegovina.
Indulge in another aspect of the culture: Bosnian cuisine. Try Ćevapi (barbecued meat sausages made of beef and lamb and served in a special type of bread called somun) or Bosnian pies (savoury phyllo dough filled with minced beef, cheese, potato or spinach). Regarding the pies, there is one warning. Please don’t say ‘burek with cheese‘; people in Bosnia are allergic to that expression.
Learn about the traditional crafts of Sarajevo, particularly the art of coppersmithing. Unlike locksmiths, fur makers and bookbinders, coppersmiths were not affected by the Industrial Revolution because they always had customers. The people of Bosnia simply love coffee too much, so there has always been a market for coppersmith products.
Traditional Bosnian dinner with a host family in Sarajevo.
Day 2 – History
By the end of day one, you’ll have a general understanding of Sarajevo’s history.
You will understand the context and recap: The Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian Empires; two versions of Yugoslavia; the Nazi occupation; and Bosnia and Herzegovina’s independence since 1992.
However, if you want to delve deeper, you’ll need to dedicate an entire day to the 20th century.
The 20th century in Sarajevo was marked by three events: the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, the Sarajevo Winter Olympics, and the Siege of Sarajevo during the Bosnian War.
The death of Franz Ferdinand in Sarajevo sparked the beginning of World War I. The heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne was visiting Sarajevo on June 28, 1914, with his wife, Sophie. Due to a series of events, Gavrilo Princip, a Serbian nationalist, killed them both next to the Latin Bridge in Sarajevo. Since Europe had already been on the verge of war for years, the great powers of Europe began declaring war on one another. Out of the six major European empires, four did not survive the war’s consequences, and even the victors were severely weakened. Next to the place where the unfortunate Austrian prince was killed, there is a museum dedicated to the Austro-Hungarian period in Bosnia and Herzegovina (1878–1918).
Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand.
About a five-minute walk from the Sarajevo Cathedral (Cathedral of the Sacred Heart), you can visit the Museum of the Sarajevo Winter Olympics. There, you can learn about the greatest period in Sarajevo’s history: February 1984, when Sarajevo was the center of the world.
Ski tracks – Sarajevo Winter Olympics.
Very close to the Cathedral are three museums related to the Bosnian War.
The Museum of Crimes Against Humanity, the Museum of the Siege of Sarajevo, and the Srebrenica Gallery are dedicated to the worst crimes against humanity in Europe since World War II.
Visiting this museum will allow you to hear stories of survival, ingenuity, and resilience. You will learn how the only connection Sarajevo had with the rest of the world was a one-meter-wide tunnel constructed between March 26 and July 30, 1993.
Sarajevo Center during the Siege – Fall of Yugoslavia.
Day 3 – Nature
Set aside one day for culture, one day for history, and one day to experience the nature around Sarajevo. Depending on your level of fitness, there are three options:
a) Light option: walk to Goat’s bridge
If you’re looking for an easy stroll over relatively flat ground, this is the route for you!
Find the Town Hall – it’s impossible to miss, as it’s the largest building in the Old Town – and follow the Miljacka River upstream. It takes about 45 minutes to reach Goat’s Bridge, a single-arch stone bridge from the Ottoman period.
Centuries ago, it was the first thing travelers would see on the way from Sarajevo to Istanbul.
About halfway between Town Hall and Goat’s Bridge, you will pass through Ambassador’s Alley. Since 2002, ambassadors of foreign countries have planted a linden tree alongside the mayor of Sarajevo upon arriving in Bosnia and Herzegovina. You can see 238 stone plates in the alley with the names of the ambassadors and their countries of origin.
Bosnia and Herzegovina is a country rich in water. Wherever you go, you’re never far from a river, stream, lake, or waterfall. The country officially has 202 waterfalls, and the tallest one is located very close to Sarajevo. It’s called Skakavac, which means “grasshopper” in the local language, and it is 98 meters tall. Although Skakavac doesn’t produce as much water as Kravice (in the south) or Štrbački Buk (in the northwest), it’s still worth visiting, especially after a few rainy days.
The easiest way to visit Skakavac is to go to the Sutjeska bus station (next to the second gymnasium, a five-minute walk from the Presidency building) and take the number 69 bus to the village of Nahorevo. From the Nahorevo bus station, it’s just over six kilometers to the waterfall.
Skakavac waterfall in Bosnia Herzegovina.
c) Challenging option: Lukomir
Lukomir is not in Canton Sarajevo, but most visitors still come from Sarajevo rather than Konjic, a town southwest of Sarajevo that is closer on the map.
Lukomir village is located at an altitude of almost 1,500 meters, and it is considered the highest settlement in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The people who live there are shepherds, and some of them still wear traditional 19th-century clothing.
The village is abandoned from November to April due to snow and inaccessibility, but it’s possible to visit from April to October.
To reach the village, drive from Sarajevo to the village of Umoljani, which takes about one hour. Then, walk about 10 kilometers to reach Lukomir. This means it will take you about five hours to walk there and back, so of the three options for experiencing nature around Sarajevo, this one is the most challenging.
Once you reach Lukomir, treat yourself to pita; it’s one of the best places in the country to enjoy this dish.
Meet Bosnia
Welcome to the place where curiosity meets excitement, and every trip feels like a new adventure waiting to happen.
– Experience the best of Bosnia and Herzegovina in 3 days – HERE – Mostar Tour – Full Day guided tour – HERE – Fall of Yugoslavia – Sarajevo Siege Tour – HERE … check all the tours here.
Our team is like a close-knit family, made up of folks from all kinds of backgrounds – sociology, economics, and more – who share a genuine love for helping travelers connect deeply with the places they explore.
Lukomir village in Bosnia Herzegovina.
We are devoted to immersing ourselves in the ambient values, historical significance, and cultural depth of the most captivating tourist destinations.
A Landmark Encounter: Contemporary Art and the Crafting of Exceptional Experiences, November 27-30
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands announces a landmark residency bringing together two cultural icons – acclaimed Chinese performance artist and photographer, Liu Bolin known as The Invisible Man, and Maison Ruinart, the first established Champagne house and a pioneer of artistic collaboration since the 19th century. From November 27–30, guests will be invited to witness a series of exclusive performances, exhibited artworks, curated Ruinart Champagne tastings, and immersive dining experiences, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Maldivian archipelago.
Liu Bolin, celebrated for his thought-provoking camouflage installations, a comment on man’s relationship to his surroundings, addressing issues of environment and cultural identity, will stage a live artistic performance on the shores of the Fari Islands. In this new work, and in continuation of Bolin’s creative partnership with Maison Ruinart, the event highlights both The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Island’s and Ruinart’s long-standing dialogue between nature, culture, and craftsmanship.
Liu Bolin with Ruinart at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands
A Living Canvas by the Ocean
The program opens on November 27 at the resort’s design masterpiece EAU Bar in a show-stopping Ruinart takeover featuring a spectacular custom made Ruinart bar, and two large-scale artworks from the Ruinart commission by Liu Bolin. The opening night will invite guests to witness Bolin’s artistry in an intimate live rehearsal — a prelude to his defining performance on November 30 – while enjoying a ‘Ruinart Hour’ Champagne reception with creatively paired canapés.
Liu Bolin with Ruinart at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands
An immersive exhibition of 10 artworks including Bolin’s Reveal the Invisible series will open at The Estate, the resort’s signature private villa, where he will host a salon-style talk and provide guests with the opportunity to join a creative workshop with the artist throughout the residency.
Across three days, the landmark partnership will present a sequence of champagne-led tastings and culinary pairings through an art lens:
November 28 – As the sun sets, the resort’s Beach Shack restaurant will host an exclusive tasting of Dom Ruinart Blanc de Blancs 2010 & 2013, followed by a Ruinart Artist Dinner with artistic plating echoing Bolin’s camouflage works. Paired menu highlights will include; Fine De Claire Oyster, salted cucumber and Oscietra caviar amuse-bouche, with a Ruinart Blanc de Blancs Second Skin, locally caught Maldivian octopus, roasted cauliflower purée and passion fruit reduction, with a Dom Ruinart Blanc de Blancs 2010, and Sea Bass and Japanese Sea Urchin with Dom Ruinart Blanc de Blancs 2009.
November 29 – Guests will join Liu Bolin at The Estate in a hands-on workshop, painting Ruinart’s eco-designed second skins, followed by a Ruinart Rosé and Dom Ruinart Rosé 2009 tasting. The evening continues at the resort’s Summer Pavilion, presenting an exceptional pairing of Cantonese-focused dishes with Ruinart Champagnes. Guests can expect Chaozhou cured abalone & sea cucumber with Ruinart Blanc de Blancs Second Skin, Hong Kong style typhoon shelter king crab with Ruinart Blanc de Blancs 2013, and the ‘Big Red Robe’ soft serve and créme brûlée with Dom Ruinart Blanc de Blancs 2010.
November 30 – A reflective dialogue with Liu Bolin, including a book signing and showcase of iconic works, precedes the final Ruinart tasting exploring Dom Ruinart 2010 & Dom Rosé 2009. The series concludes with Bolin’s live painted performance during the resort’s daily Defining Moment ritual at EAU Bar, immortalised in a photographic artwork to be featured in the artist’s future exhibitions.
An Oceanic First
Shaped by the ocean forces, wind and waves, in an elegant setting of outstanding architectural merit, EAU Bar marks the most memorable location to witness Liu Bolin’s artistry in his final performance. As the sunsets, the Defining Moment, a daily sundown ritual of Maldivian Bodu Beru drums and flaming ceremony sets the scene. Against the Indian Ocean’s infinite expanse of sea and sky, the artist will stage his iconic act of disappearance, his body live-painted to merge with the dramatic natural vistas. This fleeting performance at sunset, a dialogue between man, nature, and art, embodies Bolin’s signature message on the fragility of environment, leaving guests suspended in a moment where the boundaries between landscape and humanity dissolve.
“The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands has always stood as a destination for transformative experiences,” says Oscar Postma, General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands. “Welcoming Liu Bolin and Maison Ruinart to our shores elevates this vision, uniting contemporary art, cultural dialogue, and exceptional gastronomy in one of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural settings.”
Rhubarb Hospitality Collection (RHC) has been appointed by investment company Conygar as the new catering and events partner for Nottingham’s 36-acre mixed use development, The Island Quarter.
RHC will be responsible for modern British restaurant, Cleaver & Wake; the venue’s dedicated events space; and Binks Yard, which hosts a full programme of live events on the city’s largest outdoor terrace.
Christopher Ware, Managing Director, Conygar, said:
“With Nottingham’s dining and events scene rapidly evolving, the appointment of RHC marks a key step in driving ambitious growth plans across The Island Quarter’s venues.
“It’s a natural progression for us to elevate our offering by appointing an operator and RHC’s experience is unparalleled. I look forward to working with the team to continue to bring our vision for the wider Island Quarter to life and provide a range of experiences for people in Nottinghamshire and beyond.”
P.B Jacobse, Chief Executive Officer, RHC, said: “We are looking forward to evolving and developing the hospitality offering at Island Quarter, reaffirming it as Nottingham’s premier destination for dining, entertainment and events. We’re delighted to be working with Conygar and the existing team and look forward to announcing some new projects for Island Quarter.”
Behind some of the UK’s most celebrated food, entertainment and events spaces — from the Royal Albert Hall, to Sky Garden, and Mamma Mia! The Party — RHC will bring the same creativity and expertise to Nottingham.
Leading full-service property management company Awayday has announced PriceLabs as its preferred revenue management partner to optimize revenue across its network of more than 11,500 vacation rentals across the U.S.
CHICAGO, IL, October 13, 2025 (Newswire.com)
– PriceLabs, a global leader in revenue management solutions, today announced a new partnership with Awayday, a leading full-service U.S. vacation rental property manager with a portfolio of over 11,500 properties. Awayday has chosen PriceLabs as its preferred partner to deploy its state-of-the-art dynamic pricing and automation tools, optimizing revenue strategy across its rapidly expanding network of local brands.
The partnership is poised to set a new standard in professional, high-quality property management, combining Awayday’s scale and operational excellence with PriceLabs’ best-in-class, AI-powered technology. Awayday has been rapidly growing its properties and brands under management, combining a local focus with national scale. To power this expansion, Awayday sought an innovative partner capable of meeting the complex demands of a large-scale, diverse property portfolio, with a team of revenue managers handling thousands of properties across the U.S.
Awayday’s decision came after a comprehensive evaluation process, including data science deep dives and head-to-head comparisons of various platforms. PriceLabs distinguished itself through the superior accuracy of its pricing algorithm, seamless user interface and a human approach to partnership.
Eric Schueller, EVP Revenue at Awayday, said: “As we scale, we need a partner whose vision for the future of revenue management aligns with our own – one where intelligent algorithms and smart revenue managers work together to drive superior results. We were looking for a true technology leader. PriceLabs’ advanced algorithm, combined with its intuitive user experience, gives our team the confidence that we can calibrate our pricing effectively and deliver the best possible returns for our homeowners. We have been impressed by the platform’s evolution and the team’s deep understanding of our needs.”
Anurag Verma, Co-Founder of PriceLabs, said: “We have immense respect for how the Awayday team has executed its vision and built a high-quality organization at scale. This partnership is a significant win and a powerful validation of our platform’s ability to perform for the industry’s top professional operators. We are thrilled to partner with a team that thinks so clearly about the future and we are excited to support their continued growth.”
This partnership underscores PriceLabs’ continued expansion and success in serving enterprise-level vacation rental companies, both in optimizing revenue and supporting robust reporting needs.
About PriceLabs
PriceLabs is a global revenue management platform for the hospitality industry. Operating since 2014, it powers pricing for 500,000+ listings worldwide. Learn more at Pricelabs.co.
About Awayday
Awayday is a leading vacation rental property platform composed of 30 local brands in vacation-focused destinations across the U.S. With more than 11,000 exclusive properties managed, Awayday provides property owners with a fully integrated suite of local services, including rental bookings, cleaning and housekeeping, maintenance and repairs, unit inspections, equipment rentals, and 24/7 customer support. For more, visit www.awayday.com.
Fee Greening at the launch of A Place At The Table, Kimpton Fitzroy London
In a tribute to the lesser-known women whose legacy shaped the fight for women’s rights in Britain, the iconic central London hotel, Kimpton Fitzroy London, is proud to unveil a specially commissioned set of three plates. Each honouring a trailblazing woman of the 1900s: Princess Sophia Duleep Singh, Sarah Parker Remond, and Christina Rossetti.
Taking inspiration from Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant’s 1932 “Famous Women Dinner Service,” part of the Bloomsbury Group legacy, this elegant, contemporary collection tells powerful stories through fine bone china. The plates are beautifully illustrated by celebrated artist Fee Greening, known for her work with Alexa Chung, Victoria Beckham, and Florence and the Machine. Fee has a personal connection to Bloomsbury having studied at Central St Martins, which was then located on Southampton Row.
Each plate is hand-illustrated using Fee’s distinctive dip ink and pen technique, bringing to life the intricate designs that celebrate the achievements of these three women. Two of whom lived in Bloomsbury in the 1900s, while all three have deep connections to the area. Christina Rosetti resided at 30 Torrington Square for over 20 years, Sarah Parker Redmond settled at 6 Grenville Street, both addresses in Bloomsbury are marked with Blue Plaques. Sophia Dunleep Singh spent much of her time in Bloomsbury with the Bloomsbury Group, and her mentor Emmeline Pankhurst, who lived at 8 Russell Square from 1888 to 1893 – now the site of Kimpton Fitzroy London.
Fee Greening – Kimpton Fitzroy London – A Place At The Table
Each unique plate design highlights a central symbol representing the legacy of its subject: a detailed Goblin Market scene pays tribute to Rossetti’s most iconic poem. A bold “Votes for Women” sign represents Singh’s fearless activism. And a lectern symbolises Remond’s powerful speeches and advocacy across women’s rights and the abolitionist movement.
Honouring the Icons:
Princess Sophia Duleep Singh was the daughter of a Punjabi royal and goddaughter to Queen Victoria. She was a fearless member of the Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU). From throwing suffragette leaflets at Prime Minister Asquith’s car to marching on Black Friday in 1910 – she was a committed activist for women’s voting rights, despite the tension between her royal lineage and her political convictions.
Sarah Parker Remond, an African-American abolitionist, came to Britain after facing racial discrimination in the United States. In London, she studied medicine, spoke passionately against slavery, and became the only known Black woman to sign the 1866 women’s suffrage petition. Her transatlantic life story represents the shared struggles and solidarities across borders.
Fee Greening
Christina Rossetti, born in London to Italian émigré parents, was a celebrated poet and pre-Raphaelite muse, she has been hailed as one of the most important writers of the 19th century. Her work explored themes of sisterhood, female sexuality, and social justice. Outside her literary fame, Rossetti volunteered for a decade at a refuge for marginalised women in Highgate, living out the values of female support she wrote about.
Fee Greening is a celebrated dip pen and ink illustrator who hand-drew each of the plate designs, spending hours intricately and sensitively capturing the spirit of the women they honour. She said: “I was truly honoured when Kimpton Fitzroy London invited me to design these plates. I studied at Central Saint Martins and used to spend my lunch breaks wandering around Bloomsbury, stopping to read the blue plaques that honour the incredible women who lived and worked here.
Fee adds “So many women throughout history have fought for women’s rights, and it feels deeply meaningful to celebrate the lesser-known figures who helped shape the world we live in today. The fact that all of these women had roots so close to Kimpton Fitzroy London makes the project feel even more personal and powerful.”
Fee Greening – Kimpton Fitzroy London – A Place At The Table
Garreth Walsh, General Manager at Kimpton Fitzroy London added, “We’re proud to be part of Bloomsbury’s living history. From icons like Emmeline Pankhurst who lived on the site of our hotel, to the unsung trailblazers whose stories deserve to be told, this project is our way of honouring the spirit of a community that continues to inspire us every day. Collaborating with Fee to spotlight these incredible women has been a privilege.”
The limited-edition plate collection, created exclusively for Kimpton Fitzroy London by renowned illustrator Fee Greening, will be on display in Fitz’s Parlour from 10th October. The Parlour is open daily from 8 am to 10 pm to both hotel guests and the public, visitors are invited to admire the collection free of charge, while enjoying a coffee or a cocktail.
A limited number of sets, each comprising three fine bone china plates, will be available to purchase from Kimpton Fitzroy London for £130. £20 from the sale of each set of plates will be donated to Kimpton Fitzroy London’s local charity partner, Coram, which supports children’s rights and wellbeing through legal support, advocacy, adoption, and educational and cultural programmes.
Leading revenue management software provider to launch two new tools for holistic revenue strategy
CHICAGO, October 10, 2025 (Newswire.com)
– PriceLabs, the revenue management software solution for short-term rentals (STR), will unveil two groundbreaking new products at this year’s VRMA Las Vegas conference: the AI-powered Listing Optimizer and Dynamic Minimum Stays -marking a strategic shift from dynamic pricing to a holistic approach to revenue management.
In an increasingly competitive STR market, revenue management is no longer just about pricing. Operators must optimize every element, from booking rules to listing quality. Even perfectly priced properties can lose bookings due to weak descriptions, poor photos, or rigid stay rules that prevent listings from appearing in searches.
PriceLabs’ latest tools are designed to help property managers increase visibility, convert guests, and unlock hidden revenue opportunities across their portfolios.
Listing Optimizer: Turning browsers into bookers
The new Listing Optimizer uses AI to turn underperforming listings into high-visibility, high-converting assets. It analyzes headlines, descriptions, and photos against top competitors, then delivers data-backed recommendations. It might flag listings with too few photos, vague titles, or missing amenities that affect OTA ranking, giving managers a clear checklist for improvement. With thousands of listings competing for attention, the tool helps operators boost visibility and conversion through scalable, data-driven insights.
Even well-priced properties can underperform with thousands of listings competing for attention on booking platforms. Listing Optimizer helps operators boost their visibility by combining data-driven insights with scalable recommendations for professional hosts and multi-property managers alike.
Dynamic Minimum Stays: Automating an untapped revenue lever
PriceLabs is also launching the industry’s first Dynamic Minimum Stays, transforming static stay rules into a real-time revenue lever. Rigid minimum stay policies fail to adapt to shifting demand, leaving orphan nights and missed revenue opportunities.
PriceLabs solves this by recommending and implementing monthly minimum-stay settings for each listing, continuously adjusting rules based on live demand signals and future occupancy trends, while respecting operator-set boundaries.
Shortening restrictions fills orphan nights between bookings.
Lowering minimums last-minute boosts occupancy.
Extending stays for far-out periods protects yield.
This ensures managers can balance shorter stays that fill gaps and longer stays that maximize yield – automatically, property by property.
A Free Revenue Management Course
PriceLabs has also launched the “Fundamentals of Revenue Management,” a free course that helps property managers think strategically about pricing, understand demand, manage occupancy, and maximize profitability with practical, tool-agnostic frameworks.
Richie Khandelwal, President and Co-Founder of PriceLabs, commented:
“Dynamic pricing was the first step, but the future of revenue management is much broader. The perfect rate is no longer enough. We need to ensure that properties are getting seen, rules fit traveler demand, and listings inspire confidence to book. What we’re seeing now is a shift toward a more holistic approach, where every lever works together in real time to drive results. That’s where the industry is heading, and that’s where property managers will find the biggest gains in the years ahead.”
Travel Commerce Innovation Winner delivers New York, Los Angeles, Miami, London, Paris, Dubai, Tokyo Destination Marketplaces and Bucket List Experience Packages in 103 currencies.
NEW YORK, October 10, 2025 (Newswire.com)
– TripGift®, the international multi-award-winning leader in multi-brand, multi-currency closed-loop travel gift cards and digital experience redemption marketplace, today announced the launch of a new line of Bucket List Destination Gift Cards and Marketplaces. Featuring the world’s most sought-after cities-New York, London, Paris, Dubai, Tokyo and many more -these gift cards, promo vouchers and marketplaces deliver a unique, flexible and personalized value proposition and destination-themed closed-loop gifting and redemption experience.
Leveraging TripGift’s recent ‘Travel Commerce Innovation of the Year Award’ and its robust technology, these personalized gift cards provide truly targeted travel opportunities, all managed within TripGift’s unique travel experience redemption marketplace, which operates seamlessly across an industry-first, market leading 103 currencies.
The expansion is strategically rolling out with key global strategic partners, designed to unlock global marketing reach, drive targeted and personalized travel experience spend, and stimulate in-destination economic activity. This initiative is powered by the company’s proprietary micro-services and innovative closed-loop marketplace ecosystem, which continues to supercharge the global market with accessible, multi-currency travel gifting and redemption.
“The demand for experiential and ‘bucket list’ travel remains robust, and we are perfectly positioned to capitalize on this global desire with our new destination and bucket list experience-focused gift cards,” said Cary George, CEO of TripGift®. “By personalizing the gift of travel to iconic cities like New York, Dubai, London, and Tokyo, and supporting it with the power of our 103-currency redemption platform, we are making global travel dreams more accessible and easier to achieve for everyone, everywhere. This strategic expansion is a testament to the strength and unique scalability of the TripGift® infrastructure and closed-loop ecosystem.”
The new destination gift cards are designed for self-use or 3rd party gifting locally or cross-border with maximum flexibility, allowing recipients to redeem them for hotels, car rentals, tours, and bucket list experiences all in the named city, leveraging the full technological capability of the TripGift® marketplace exclusively for redemption online.
“Our continuous innovation, particularly within our micro-services and flywheel model, is what allows us to rapidly introduce highly relevant, meaningful products and marketplaces, driving economic stimulus in these key global destinations,” added George.
About TripGift® TripGift® is the international multi-award-winning market leader in multi-brand, multi-currency travel ‘anywhere’ closed-loop digital gift cards and a digital self-serve online travel booking redemption marketplace. Headquartered in London, UK, operating globally, the company is debt-free and profitable, operating a portfolio of ‘hero brand’ gift cards including AirlineGift, BucketlistGift, HotelsGift, eLearnGift, FlystayGift, RentacarGift, ToursGift and TripGift opening doors to over 1.5 million bookable travel experiences exclusively in its online marketplace. The platform encompasses major airlines, hotels, and car rentals, as well as extraordinary local and global bucket list experiences, VIP sporting events, and cultural and music events.
TripGift® B2B solutions, offers an industry-first, security-minded, 103 transactional currency closed-loop gift card processor, gift card API and global experiential redemption marketplace, with split-tender for travel anywhere, its retail digital travel gift cards, are ideal for local, regional and global travel gifting, travel rewards, loyalty rewards, employee rewards, promotions, incentives, wedding gifts, destination marketing, bundles, cash back and sweepstake prizes.
The first light of dawn weaves into the low-lying mist, turning it gold. Steam curls lazily above the water, blurring the lines between the banks and grassy land. Wade in carefully—there are secrets from another age yet to uncover before you can relax.
In the distance, the Leonidas monument stands guard, looming about as large as he should—stern and solitary against the rising sun. Faint chatter, a few laughs, a few curses. These are the early risers, mostly locals, lowering themselves into the milky pools, fumes or no fumes. Cars on the nearby highway hum in the distance, but the scene still feels timeless, unspoiled by the modern buzz.
The Thermopylae hot springs aren’t a myth, but a place you can actually visit—and for free.
Travelers describe it as surreal: a steaming roadside pool framed by mountains and layers of history. There are no ticket booths, no fancy facilities—just open access, the smell of sulfur, and the awareness that you’re standing where empires once clashed.
Here’s your guide to visiting the best hot springs in Greece.
Best Hot Springs in Greece: From Thermopylae to Santorini
Where Warm Waters Meet Epic History
Thermopylae (Θερμοπύλες) means “the Hot Gates,” a name earned from the geothermal springs that have bubbled here for thousands of years. Cradled between mountains and sea, this narrow pass was both a strategic bottleneck and a sacred site.
In 480 BC, King Leonidas led 300 Spartans (plus allied Greeks) in a famed last stand against Persia—and though historians still debate how many stood, who stayed, and how the battle unfolded, their myth has shaped generations and whole cultures to come. The terrain has changed, but the hot springs still flow—as they did when ancient warriors soaked their wounds in sulfurous waters believed to hold divine power.
Top Hot Springs in Greece: From Volcanic Bays to Mountain Escapes
Beyond Thermopylae, Greece offers a dazzling variety of natural springs—from wild mountain pools to seaside resorts with centuries of history.
Pozar Hot Springs – Northern Greece
📍 Aridaia, Central Macedonia
Set in a forested gorge at the foot of Mount Voras, Pozar is one of Greece’s most beloved thermal escapes. Steaming waterfalls tumble into stone pools surrounded by greenery and cliffs. Facilities include changing rooms, cafés, and spa services, and entry to the outdoor pools costs just a few euros.
Tip: Winter mornings are spectacular, with warm water and snow-dusted peaks.
Day Trip: Pozar Thermal Baths & Edessa Waterfalls
Relax, rejuvenate, and explore Northern Greece’s natural beauty in one unforgettable private tour. Experience the perfect mix of wellness and wonder — from soaking in warm mountain springs to discovering Edessa’s famous waterfalls.
Highlights include: ↠ Bathe in over 50 natural pools at the Pozar Thermal Baths, surrounded by lush mountain scenery ↠ Visit the majestic Edessa Waterfalls, one of Greece’s most stunning natural sights ↠ Enjoy a scenic drive through Macedonia’s countryside in a private, air-conditioned vehicle ↠ Savor traditional Greek cuisine at a charming village near Pozar ↠ Private 8-hour tour from Thessaloniki — fully customizable to your pace and preferences
~3–4 € per person for access to the outdoor thermal pools (the scenic natural gorge setting with the waterfalls).
~5–6 € per person for the indoor spa/thermal baths (individual or group rooms with regulated temperatures).
Children and seniors sometimes receive discounts.
Opening Hours:
Daily, 07:00 – 21:00 (some parts open later during summer evenings).
The outdoor pools often stay open longer, especially in winter when night soaking is popular.
Other Practical Notes:
Parking is free and located right next to the entrance.
Towels and swimsuits can be rented if needed.
The site is open year-round, and many locals love visiting in winter when the air is crisp and the pools steam dramatically.
Edipsos Hot Springs – Evia Island
📍 Northern Evia
Known since antiquity, Edipsos is where Heracles supposedly bathed between Labors, and where Roman emperors came for rejuvenation. Today, you can soak in free coastal rock pools or visit traditional spa hotels.
📝 Tip: Low tide reveals more natural pools.
Loutraki Thermal Spa – Corinthia
📍 80 km west of Athens
Loutraki blends modern spa treatments with ancient pedigree. The town has been famed since classical times; today it’s an easy wellness day trip from Athens, combining historic charm with hydrotherapy and seaside strolls.
Santorini Hot Springs – Volcanic Baths in the Caldera
📍 Palea Kameni islet, by boat
A Santorini boat tour highlight: swimming from the cool Aegean into gently warm, rust-colored volcanic waters. The caldera views make this one of Greece’s most memorable thermal experiences.
📝 Tip: Wear dark swimwear—the minerals can stain. The sulfur- and iron-rich water can irritate sensitive skin and shouldn’t be entered with open cuts. Rinse off well after your swim.
The Methana Peninsula is a geothermal wonderland of wild seaside springs, volcanic craters, and quiet villages. It’s raw, authentic, and perfect for travelers who like geological drama without the crowds.
Loutra Ypatis – Mt. Oiti, Central Greece
📍 Near Lamia
Sacred to the nymphs of Mount Oiti, these springs are tied to the myth of Heracles’ ascent to Olympus. The tranquil spa town still welcomes visitors seeking the reputed healing benefits of its waters.
Myth & Healing: Ancient Beliefs in Hot Springs in Greece
For ancient Greeks, springs were gifts from the gods:
Heracles bathed at Edipsos and Mount Oiti to regain his strength and ascend to Olympus.
Nymphs were believed to bless springs like Loutra Ypatis with rejuvenating power.
Wise centaurs like Chiron were linked to healing springs in the Peloponnese.
Thermal waters were sacred spaces for renewal—a tradition that still lingers in how locals treat them today.
Best Hot Springs in Greece: From Thermopylae to Santorini
Practical Guide: Visiting Thermopylae Hot Springs
Location: Near Lamia, Central Greece — 175 km north of Athens Admission: Free Hours: 24/7, year-round
Best Time to Visit Thermopylae Hot Springs
Dawn for magical mist and golden light Daytime for a livelier local vibe Night for solitude (bring a flashlight!)
Getting There
By car: 2 hrs from Athens (E75 north). Free parking onsite.
By bus: KTEL to Lamia + taxi for the last stretch.
Tours: Often combined with Delphi or Meteora.
What to Bring
Dark swimsuit (sulfur stains), towel, flip-flops, water, flashlight for early or late visits.
Health & Safety Tips for Visiting Hot Springs
Greece’s thermal waters are natural and often rich in sulfur, iron, and other minerals. While most travelers enjoy them without issues, it’s worth keeping a few health precautions in mind:
Children: Warm springs can be dehydrating, and some pools are quite hot. Limit children’s soaking time (10–15 min at a time) and make sure they drink plenty of water.
Pregnant women: Consult your doctor before visiting hot springs, especially during the first trimester. High temperatures and mineral content can sometimes pose risks.
Skin conditions & open wounds: Sulfur-rich water may irritate sensitive skin, eczema, or fresh cuts. If you have any open wounds, avoid soaking to prevent infection.
Hydration: Hot springs can make you sweat more than you realize. Bring water and take breaks to cool off.
Time limits: Prolonged soaking can lead to dizziness or fatigue. 15–20 minutes at a time is usually plenty for most pools.
Rinse afterward: Always shower or rinse after bathing to remove mineral residues and reduce skin irritation or staining.
⚠️ Note: These are natural sites, not supervised swimming pools. Surfaces can be slippery, and there are usually no lifeguards—so use common sense and caution.
Greece’s thermal springs are more than wellness stops—they’re living links to history, landscape, and myth. Whether you soak at dawn in Thermopylae, swim into Santorini’s caldera, or follow Heracles’ trail at Edipsos, these waters invite you to slow down and step into stories thousands of years old.
We offer a range of services designed to make your time in Santorini, Thessaloniki, Halkidiki, and Athens truly unforgettable. Whether you’re looking to kick back and relax, dive into some adventure, or mix a bit of both, we’re here to help you craft the perfect experience.
We offer a range of services designed to make your time in Santorini, Thessaloniki, Halkidiki, and Athens truly unforgettable. Whether you’re looking to kick back and relax, dive into some adventure, or mix a bit of both, we’re here to help you craft the perfect experience.
This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, known as “Columbus’s last stop before America,” presents a dramatically different landscape from its larger neighbor – Ancient laurel forests, mystical valleys, and cultural traditions that have survived for centuries.
Just 50 minutes by ferry from Tenerife’s Los Cristianos port, La Gomera offers one of the most rewarding day trip experiences in the Canary Islands.
Ferry connections operate multiple times daily with Fred Olsen Express and Naviera Armas, departing at 9:00 AM, 2:30 PM, and 6:30 PM, with return journeys providing flexible scheduling for day trips. Round-trip tickets start at €43 per person, with car transport available from €21, though most day-trippers find the island easily explorable on foot and via organized tours.
Garajonay National Park: Ancient Laurel Forest Experience
The crown jewel of La Gomera, Garajonay National Park protects one of the world’s last remaining laurel forests, a prehistoric ecosystem that once covered much of Mediterranean Europe. These ancient woods, shrouded in mystical mists, create an almost Jurassic atmosphere where endemic species thrive in humidity levels reaching 80%.
Guided hiking tours through the park provide the safest and most educational experience, with local experts explaining the complex ecosystem while navigating the well-marked but sometimes challenging trails. Half-day guided hikes cost €45-65 per person and include hotel pickup from San Sebastián, professional interpretation, and visits to the park’s Visitor Center near Cruz del Carmen.
The Alto de Garajonay summit, at 1,487 meters, offers panoramic views across the entire archipelago on clear days. The challenging Gran Ruta 18 circuit hike covers 17 kilometers and takes approximately 6 hours, making it suitable only for experienced hikers with proper equipment. For day-trippers, the shorter Sendero El Cedro trail provides excellent forest immersion in just 2-3 hours.
Practical note: The laurel forest creates its own microclimate with frequent mist and sudden temperature changes. Waterproof clothing and layered clothing are essential, even during summer months.
Mirador de Abrante: Walking on Air
One of La Gomera’s most spectacular attractions, the Mirador de Abrante features a dramatic glass walkway extending 7 meters over a 600-meter precipice. This architectural marvel, opened in 2014, creates the sensation of floating in mid-air while offering panoramic views of the picturesque village of Agulo below and Tenerife’s Mount Teide on the horizon.
The glass-floored skywalk provides 360-degree views, with the transparent floor allowing visitors to see directly down to Agulo’s traditional stone houses and terraced landscapes. Entry costs €3 for the viewpoint, with the adjacent restaurant offering local cuisine (though currently closed as of 2022).
Access requires a narrow, winding mountain road from the main highway, adding adventure to the visit. The drive takes approximately 20 minutes from the park’s main visitor center, with adequate parking available at the site. The viewpoint operates Tuesday-Sunday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Photography tip: Visit during golden hour for the most dramatic lighting, when the red volcanic cliffs contrast beautifully with the green valley below and the blue Atlantic beyond.
Mirador de Abrante in La Gomera, Spain.
Silbo Gomero: The Whistling Language Demonstration
La Gomera preserves one of the world’s most unique communication systems: Silbo Gomero, a whistled language declared UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2009. This ancient system, used for centuries to communicate across the island’s deep valleys and ravines, can transmit messages up to 4 kilometers.
Live demonstrations are regularly performed at various locations, including the Abrante Viewpoint, Garajonay National Park visitor centers, and San Sebastián’s town square. Professional silbadores (whistlers) demonstrate how Spanish words are converted into whistled sounds using just two vowel tones and four consonant sounds, with meaning clarified through pitch, duration, and context.
School visits can be arranged through the La Gomera Whistled Language School (Aula Insular del Silbo Gomero), where this unique skill is taught as a compulsory subject to all island children. These educational sessions cost €8-12 per person and provide hands-on instruction in basic whistling techniques.
Cultural significance: Today, over 20,000 La Gomera residents can communicate in Silbo Gomero, using it for practical daily communication, emergency situations, and maintaining cultural identity. Visitors often witness spontaneous whistled conversations between locals across valleys during their visit.
El Cercado: Traditional Pottery Village
Hidden in La Gomera’s highlands, El Cercado maintains one of the Canary Islands’ last authentic pottery traditions, with techniques virtually unchanged since pre-Hispanic times. Only three workshops continue this ancient craft, run exclusively by women who pass skills from mothers to daughters across generations.
Live demonstrations show master potters creating traditional pieces entirely by hand without pottery wheels, using only local clay, sand, and almagre (red ochre) for the characteristic finish. The month-long process from clay preparation to wood-fired completion creates utilitarian pieces like gofio storage bowls, water jugs, and the distinctive carabucho (goat milking vessel).
Las Loceras Interpretation Center in El Cercado’s village square provides historical context through exhibits and displays, operating Tuesday-Sunday 10:00 AM-2:00 PM with free admission. Visitors can purchase authentic pottery pieces directly from the workshops, with prices ranging from €15-45 for traditional items.
Workshop visits require advance booking during peak tourist seasons, as the three remaining loceras (pottery women) balance traditional production with tourist demonstrations. The village’s isolated location, reached via mountain roads through terraced landscapes, adds to its authentic rural atmosphere.
Valle Gran Rey: Natural Swimming and Coastal Beauty
La Gomera’s largest town, Valle Gran Rey, offers perfect relaxation after cultural and hiking activities. The valley’s Charco del Conde natural swimming pool, formed by volcanic rock and filled with crystal-clear seawater, provides safe swimming protected from Atlantic swells.
Playa de la Calera, the municipality’s largest beach, features black volcanic sand and calm waters ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The beachfront promenade offers numerous restaurants serving fresh seafood and traditional Gomeran cuisine, including locally caught fish and almogrote cheese spread.
Whale watching excursions depart from Valle Gran Rey’s small harbor, offering different perspectives of La Gomera’s dramatic coastline while searching for pilot whales, dolphins, and sea turtles in the surrounding waters. These 3-hour trips cost €35-45 per person and include swimming stops in secluded bays with complimentary refreshments.
La Playa in Valle Gran Rey in La Gomera, Spain.
Planning Your La Gomera Day Trip
Recommended schedule: Depart Tenerife on the 9:00 AM ferry, arriving in San Sebastián de La Gomera at 9:50 AM. Join organized tours departing at 10:30 AM, or rent a car at the port for independent exploration. Return on the 6:30 PM ferry for a full day experience, or the 2:30 PM ferry for a more relaxed half-day visit.
Independent exploration offers a flexibility but requires careful timing with ferry schedules and mountain road conditions. Car rental at San Sebastián port costs €35-50 per day, with fuel and insurance included. The island’s compact size (25km x 22km) makes all major attractions accessible within 45 minutes of driving.
Cultural immersion: La Gomera rewards those seeking authentic Canarian culture away from resort tourism. Traditional guachinches in Valle Gran Rey serve local wines and island specialties, while village markets offer handmade crafts and locally produced honey, cheese, and mojo sauces. The island’s slower pace of life and genuine local hospitality create lasting impressions beyond typical day-trip experiences.
This neighbor island experience perfectly complements a Tenerife vacation, offering dramatic landscape contrasts, unique cultural encounters, and the satisfaction of discovering one of Europe’s best-preserved traditional island communities.
After a successful day trip to La Gomera, it’s no surprise that you might book your next whole vacation there.
I’m sure you’ve had similar experiences I had whilst traveling. You’re in a certain place and a fellow traveler, or a local, tip you off on a little-known beach, bar or accommodation. Great travel tips from other travelers or locals always add something special to our travels. That was the inspiration for Travel Dudes.
I’m sure you’ve had similar experiences I had whilst traveling. You’re in a certain place and a fellow traveler, or a local, tip you off on a little-known beach, bar or accommodation. Great travel tips from other travelers or locals always add something special to our travels. That was the inspiration for Travel Dudes.
Facing seasonal surges and extreme desert conditions, Page, AZ upgrades two key intersections with AI-driven signal operations and IoT connectivity to improve safety, efficiency, and the travel experience for residents and millions of visitors.
PAGE, Ariz., October 9, 2025 (Newswire.com)
– The City of Page, Arizona, known as the gateway to Lake Powell, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and the Grand Canyon, has completed a significant traffic technology upgrade to improve safety, efficiency, and the driving experience for both residents and the millions of visitors who pass through each year.
Installed at the cabinet level, the compact AI system processes video on site, delivering accurate, real-time detection of vehicles and vulnerable road users, supporting dynamic signal actuation, and generating detailed analytics. The Connected Traffic Cabinet. IoT enhances operations with robust connectivity – including five Ethernet ports, high-speed 4G LTE, GPS, VPN pass-through, and exclusive access to a secure cloud-based monitoring platform for remote control, real-time status checks, on-demand video streaming, and system health monitoring.
“Our goal was to give our community a safer, more efficient traffic system without causing major disruptions,” said Kyle Christiansen, Public Works Director, City of Page. “This upgrade benefits both our residents and the diverse travelers who visit from around the globe.”
“Currux Vision’s edge-based AI is built for complex, real-world environments,” said Alex Colosivschi, CEO of Currux Vision. “From extreme heat to low-visibility conditions, it ensures consistent detection and reliable performance year-round.”
“Page is doing such a great job for their community by investing in solutions that improve safety, reduce congestion, and create a better experience for everyone on the road,” said. Joe Marioni, Territory Manager at Western Systems. “We’re proud to support their vision with technology that’s reliable, scalable, and built for Arizona’s unique conditions.”
The City of Page’s proactive approach offers a model for other Arizona communities seeking to modernize their traffic operations with minimal disruption, maximum efficiency, and future-ready scalability.
About the City of Page Nestled on the southern shores of Lake Powell in northern Arizona, the City of Page is home to approximately 7,500 residents but welcomes nearly 5 million visitors annually. Surrounded by iconic landscapes, Page is a hub for tourism, outdoor recreation, and cultural exchange, committed to enhancing infrastructure, safety, and quality of life.
About Western Systems Western Systems has been providing innovative, dependable traffic management solutions to city, county, and state agencies across the western United States for over 20 years.
About Currux Vision Currux Vision develops cutting-edge AI-based traffic detection, actuation, and analytics solutions designed to improve safety, efficiency, and sustainability in all roadway environments.
Here’s the truth every seasoned traveler knows: the best trips aren’t just about where you go… They’re about how you get there.
One topic what keeps coming up is: coach travel transforms group adventures while quietly becoming one of the most powerful environmental choices you can make.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway with friends, organizing a corporate retreat, or coordinating that long-overdue family reunion, choosing a coach over individual cars isn’t just smarter logistics, it’s a travel hack that experienced travelers recommend.
The Numbers Don’t Lie: Why Smart Group Travelers Choose Coaches
Let’s cut through the environmental marketing speak and talk real data. Recent analysis from the UK Government shows that a journey from London to Glasgow in a petrol car produces four times more carbon dioxide per passenger than the same trip by coach. We’re talking about a reduction from 71kg of CO2 per passenger down to just 9.2kg. That’s massive.
But here’s where it gets interesting for group travel planning. The European Environment Agency found that while a solo car journey produces 171 grams of CO2 per passenger per kilometer, that same distance by coach drops to just 27 grams. For your typical group of 20-30 people, choosing coach over individual cars eliminates roughly 3-4 tons of CO2 emissions on a 100-mile journey.
The American Bus Association’s 2025 data confirms what savvy group organizers already know: motorcoaches outperform every other transportation mode for energy efficiency per passenger-mile. This isn’t just good for the planet, it’s practical travel intelligence.
Bus group travel in Icealand. Pic via Andreas Rasmussen -unsplash.
Beyond the Environmental Win: Why Experienced Groups Choose Coaches
Smart group travel is about maximizing your destination time while minimizing hassles. Fellow travelers consistently share these coach travel advantages:
Everyone arrives together, on time
No more waiting for stragglers who got lost, couldn’t find parking, or hit unexpected traffic in unfamiliar areas. Your adventure starts the moment everyone boards.
Zero driving stress
Instead of designating drivers or navigating rental car logistics, your group can use travel time for trip planning, catching up, or simply relaxing. Many experienced group leaders use coach time for pre-trip briefings or team-building activities.
Flexible route planning
Unlike fixed public transport schedules, coaches adapt to your itinerary. Need to make an unscheduled stop at that hidden gem someone mentioned? Your driver can accommodate real-time discoveries that make trips memorable. Professional Coach Hire providers often possess expertise in route optimization that individual organizers might miss.
Built-in safety buffer
Professional drivers know routes, weather conditions, and traffic patterns. They’re trained for group transport and carry proper insurance, eliminating the liability concerns that come with coordinating multiple private vehicles.
Bus interior
The Hidden Costs of Multi-Car Group Travel
Here’s what most group organizers don’t calculate upfront: individual car coordination often costs more than expected. Factor in fuel, parking fees (especially in city destinations), potential mileage reimbursements, and the time cost of managing multiple arrival schedules.
Recent industry analysis shows coach travel frequently costs less than combining multiple private vehicle expenses. Plus, you get predictable pricing with no surge fees or parking surprises.
For corporate groups, there’s an additional benefit: simplified expense reporting. One coach invoice versus collecting and processing dozens of individual travel receipts saves administrative time and reduces processing errors.
Maximizing Environmental Impact: Insider Tips
The most environmentally conscious group travelers we know follow these strategies:
Optimize occupancy rates
Environmental benefits scale with passenger numbers. Consider combining smaller groups when timing and destinations align. Educational institutions coordinate trips among different departments; corporations consolidate conference attendees from multiple teams.
Choose modern, well-maintained vehicles
Euro VI emission standards reduce nitrogen oxide emissions by approximately 95% compared to older engines. When selecting providers, ask about fleet age and emission standards. Operators investing in newer vehicles demonstrate genuine environmental commitment.
Strategic route planning
Efficient routing minimizes unnecessary mileage. Multiple pickup locations can consolidate passengers who might otherwise drive separately to central meeting points. Professional providers often possess route optimization expertise that individual organizers miss.
Track and communicate impact
Calculate the emission reduction your group achieved. Online carbon calculators estimate based on journey distance, passenger numbers, and vehicle types. Recording these figures supports sustainability reporting and builds awareness about transportation choices.
Tour bus.
Real-World Applications: What Fellow Travelers Report
Sports teams consistently rank coach travel as their preferred option. Teams report better unity and pre-game focus when traveling together, plus simplified logistics for equipment transport. Professional teams use travel time for strategy sessions and team building that translates to better performance.
Corporate groups find coaches particularly valuable for multi-day conferences or retreats. The shared travel experience often begins networking and relationship building before reaching the destination. Many business leaders report that coach conversations lead to breakthrough collaborations that wouldn’t happen otherwise.
Educational groups appreciate the supervision advantages. Teachers can maintain better oversight of larger student groups while using travel time for educational activities and discussions. The controlled environment supports learning objectives that continue beyond classroom walls.
Addressing Common Concerns
“Isn’t coach travel slower than flying for long distances?” For journeys under 300 miles, coaches often provide door-to-door time comparable to flying when you factor in airport security, check-in requirements, and ground transportation at both ends. Plus, you’re productive during coach travel rather than waiting in terminals.
“What about comfort for long trips?” Modern coaches feature reclining seats, climate control, onboard restrooms, Wi-Fi, and power outlets. Many travelers find coaches more comfortable than airline economy class. You can move around freely, and there’s proper storage for personal items and equipment.
“How reliable are coach schedules?” Professional coach services maintain on-time performance rates exceeding 95%. Unlike airline schedules vulnerable to air traffic delays, coaches navigate around traffic issues and weather challenges more flexibly.
Making Coach Travel Work for Your Group
Start planning early. Popular destinations and peak travel periods book up quickly, especially for groups requiring specific pickup locations or premium vehicles. Most operators recommend booking 4-6 weeks ahead for best vehicle selection and pricing.
Communicate clearly with your group. Share pickup times, locations, and what to bring onboard. Experienced group leaders create simple checklists covering essentials like ID requirements, appropriate clothing, and personal comfort items.
Pack smart for coach travel. Comfortable seating works well for most trips, but bringing a neck pillow, light blanket, or entertainment can enhance longer journeys. Snacks and water bottles are always welcome, especially for day-long adventures.
Choose reputable operators. Look for companies with strong safety records, newer fleets, and positive customer reviews. Professional operators carry appropriate insurance, maintain vehicles properly, and employ experienced drivers.
The Ripple Effect: How Your Choice Influences Others
The Confederation of Passenger Transport calculated that just a 10% increase in UK coach journeys could eliminate over 17 million car journeys annually. When your group chooses coach travel, you’re demonstrating practical environmental leadership that influences other organizations and individuals.
Share your positive experiences. When colleagues or peer organizations plan group travel, mention the environmental benefits and practical advantages you’ve experienced. Personal recommendations from trusted sources often carry more weight than abstract environmental arguments.
Many experienced group organizers report that initial coach skeptics become enthusiastic advocates after experiencing the convenience and environmental benefits firsthand. Your group’s choice creates a multiplier effect as team members apply this knowledge to their own travel planning.
Bus Travel
Beyond Carbon: Additional Environmental Benefits
Coach travel reduces urban air quality impact through decreased vehicle numbers. Nitrogen oxides and particulate matter from vehicle exhausts contribute to respiratory problems, particularly in cities. One coach replacing 30-50 cars directly improves air quality in communities along traveled routes.
Traffic congestion reduction provides immediate environmental benefits. Fewer vehicles mean less time in traffic jams, smoother traffic flow improving fuel efficiency across all road users, and reduced infrastructure stress extending road lifespan.
Resource efficiency extends beyond fuel consumption. Every additional private car represents embodied carbon from manufacturing, raw material extraction, and component production. Maximizing passenger capacity per vehicle reduces total vehicle fleet requirements and associated manufacturing demand.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Sustainable Group Travel
The coach industry continues advancing environmental performance. Over 80 zero-emission coaches have been ordered in the UK since 2019, with more than half now in service. While electric coach technology faces range and infrastructure challenges, current diesel coaches already deliver substantial environmental benefits for group travel.
Alternative fuel innovations continue developing. Bio-LNG fleets and hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) refueling programs demonstrate industry commitment to further emission reductions. These improvements build upon already impressive environmental advantages.
Smart group travel means making choices that enhance both your adventure and your environmental impact. Coach travel delivers both benefits while often saving money and reducing logistics complexity. For experienced travelers, it’s become the obvious choice for group adventures.
The next time your group plans a getaway, consider the coach option. You’ll arrive together, travel comfortably, and make a meaningful environmental difference. Exactly what seasoned travelers recommend for memorable group adventures that align with responsible travel values.
Ready to plan your group’s next coach adventure? Start by researching reputable operators in your area and calculating the environmental impact you could achieve. Fellow travelers consistently report that the convenience, environmental benefits, and shared experience make coach travel their preferred group transportation choice.
Connect with fellow travelers and share your coach travel experiences using #TravelDudes – we love hearing about adventures that combine great experiences with environmental responsibility.
I’m sure you’ve had similar experiences I had whilst traveling. You’re in a certain place and a fellow traveler, or a local, tip you off on a little-known beach, bar or accommodation. Great travel tips from other travelers or locals always add something special to our travels. That was the inspiration for Travel Dudes.
I’m sure you’ve had similar experiences I had whilst traveling. You’re in a certain place and a fellow traveler, or a local, tip you off on a little-known beach, bar or accommodation. Great travel tips from other travelers or locals always add something special to our travels. That was the inspiration for Travel Dudes.
