The World’s Most Liveable City Revealed
The mistakes foreigners make when bathing – According to the latest rankings, the top city for 2026 has been named. This European capital, spanning two coastal islands, offers a blend of history and modernity. Meanwhile, America’s most iconic sandwiches and their locations are also highlighted in this week’s travel update.
Bathing in Japan: Nudity and Nuance
Japan’s traditional hot springs, known as onsens, are a standout feature of the nation’s cultural landscape. Yet, for international travelers, understanding the subtle social norms is crucial, including punctuality and the occasional use of waterproof bandages to conceal tattoos. Nudity is also a must, though some may find the practice surprising.
“Full nudity is mandatory in an onsen, but in scenic Varenna, Italy, it’s a different story. The Italian village now imposes fines for those basking in the sun in swimwear or bare-chested.”
Unexpected Wildlife Encounters
This week, a Tibetan brown bear disrupted routine in Naqu, Tibet, by wandering into a hotel, sipping bottled water at the front desk, and briefly stepping into a guest’s room before vanishing. Such incidents, while rare, underscore the unpredictable charm of nature in unexpected places.
Paris’s River Revival
Just a few years ago, swimming in Paris’ River Seine might have risked a hospital visit due to pollution. But after a cleanup initiative ahead of the Paris Olympics, the river has transformed into the city’s latest trendy destination. With this year’s extreme heat, it’s now a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike.
America’s Best Towns to Visit
Lawrence, Kansas, appears as if it’s frozen in Main Street nostalgia, offering a thriving hub of craft breweries, independent bookshops, and historic inns. However, this Midwestern gem hides a bold, defiant spirit that endures through its history of resilience. Twice burned down in the Civil War era, the town has always risen again, now fighting to maintain its local character against global chains.
Surprise Tourist Hubs
For World Cup attendees in the USA, a surprising hit has emerged: Walmart. With over 4,000 locations nationwide, the retail giant is capitalizing on social media buzz by hosting VIP tours for international fans in cities like New Jersey and Miami.
Spain’s Remote Island
El Hierro, the farthest of Spain’s Canary Islands, was once thought to mark the edge of the known world. It was the last land Christopher Columbus saw before discovering the Americas in 1492. Today, it appeals to travelers seeking adventure, offering a two-and-a-half hour ferry ride from Tenerife as part of the journey.
Kimchi Innovation
Researchers in Seoul are refining the classic recipe for kimchi, Korea’s beloved fermented vegetable dish, using laboratory techniques. Daniel Dae Kim, host of CNN’s “K-Everything,” joins a Michelin-starred chef to explore this culinary quest. The episode includes a twist: a stranger on the internet becomes an unexpected travel companion, leading to an unexpected romance.
