The most scenic railway journeys in the world!

Taking a train journey across and between countries is often one of the nicest ways to travel. There tends to be more legroom than on a bus and it’s definitely faster without all the traffic jams in cities. Although I wouldn’t naturally call myself a train lover (I always just think of the cramped journeys in and around the UK), when I think of train journeys I’ve had abroad I reassess my position.

Love train journey trips? Check out these bucket list train journeys in Europe, train journeys in America and Asia. The most beautiful and scenic train rides in the world! Check out this epic rail travel bucket list - the perfect travel inspiration! #worldtravel #bucketlist #Trains #TrainTravel

Living in France and doing the train journey from St Pancras to Paris then through France down to Grenoble in The Alps was a dream, travelling across China on the high-speed trains was easy, and taking the Caledonian Sleeper up to Scotland a few years ago was the perfect way to fit in a weekend break!

The Best UK Rail Journeys

Travelling in the UK and under 30? If you’re travelling around the country by train then it’s definitely worth getting a Railcard. They saved me SO much money on trips between London and home while I was living there (I basically made back the price in one ticket!).

The two most popular types are:

  • The Young Persons Railcard (16-25): Save up to 1/3 on journeys.
  • The Millenial Railcard (26-30): Save up to 1/3 on rail journeys

Both cost £30 for an entire year and you’ll need to take a passport photo when you buy online or at the train station.

There are also lots of other railcards such as couples and family railcards that might e worth looking into.

Welsh Highland Railway

The Welsh Highland Railway in Snowdonia National Park is Britain’s longest narrow gauge line. At 25 miles long the ride may seem small compared to the epic rail journeys elsewhere in the world but don’t underestimate it.

This rail journey was closed in 1937 after slate mine traffic decreased but volunteers worked hard to rebuild the tracks that snake through rivers, forest and almost Swiss-style gradients. Muddy hiking boots are almost a prerequisite for this lovely railway!

Fort William to Mallaig

best trail journeys in the world

It’s lucky this “Road to the Isles” service was saved from being axed in the 60s as it has lived on to become one of Britain’s best-loved scenic railways. The 42 mile rail journey, through mountain and glen, takes in an impressive panorama from Britain’s highest mountain to Europe’s deepest seawater loch.

Settle to Carlisle

If you’re a regular user of the trains in England you might not be able to imagine taking a train journey for pleasure. But forget the rail replacement buses and strikes and take a look at the Settle to Carlisle route; few journeys in England are as picturesque as this.

The train crosses the Yorkshire Dales and Northern Pennines and weaves its way straight into the heart of England’s craggy northern hills and cliffs. Get your nap in before you’re onboard – you wouldn’t want to miss a second of this nearly 2 and a half hour journey!

 

Talylln Railway

Perhaps the cutest train journey on the list, the Talyllyn is a small steam-powered, narrow gauge railway was originally built in 1865 to haul slate from the Bryn Eglwys quarries near Abergynolwyn.

The slate runs shut down in 1946 after an accident, and the line, which had fallen into disrepair, would have been absorbed by the woods if not for a generous group of enthusiasts who formed the Talyllyn Railway Preservation Society.

At just 7 miles long, this is a trip for the whole family. Get a hop on, hop off ticket and go do some exploring in Wales.

Get your tickets for the Talylln Railway

The Royal Scotsman

This tourist favourite carries 36 passengers (yep, just 36!) through some of Scotland’s most beautiful landscapes.

You’ll cross Scotland’s famous lochs, highlands, castles and craggy cliffs with regular stops at tiny Scottish villages. Best of all, you’ll do it at a pace that rarely excess 20mph at any given time. If you truly want to get into the spirit of things then make sure to hire a kilt or even have one custom-tailored to wear during the journey!

The Best Train Journeys in Europe

Travelling Europe by train is a great idea! If you’re planning to do a lot of train travel in Europe then be sure to check out Interrail passes.

You can either buy a pass for one country, or (what’s more popular) is to buy an interrail pass for a chosen period of time. This then covers your train travel in 30 European countries (excl. your own). It’s such a great way to explore Europe!

Douro Line

douro line in porto portugal best train journeysIf you happen to be travelling through Portugal between early spring and late summer then book a trip on the Douro Line. During this time the almond trees blossom and the terraced grape vines burst with fruit ready for pressing.

The 1887 Douro Line route from Porto to Pocinho is one of the easiest ways to enjoy Portugal’s green river valley. The scenery is stunning as you stick close to the river crossing 30 bridges, passing through 26 tunnels and stopping off at beautiful historic stations such as Régua and Pinhão.

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Danube Express

Travel from Budapest to Istanbul on the Danube Express and get a whole new appreciation for the medieval buildings of legendary Transylvania. The whole journey takes 4 days but adding a few extra onto both ends of your trip is a must as the two cities are unmissable.

The Danube Express is the only international private train in Europe with en-suite compartments and air conditioning making it ideal for those who like a little bit of luxury!

Rhine Valley

rhine valley train germany best railway rides

A train journey in Germany’s Rhine Valley from Mainz to Koblenz is the rail journey of choice for postcard-perfect views of centuries-old castles perched up high above the river. Along the 62 mile journey, there are castles every few miles, all of which are beautiful! Get a seat on the left-hand side for the best views and, on arrival at Koblenz, be sure to visit the fortress of Ehrenbreitstein for a panoramic valley view.

Oslo to Bergen

The 310-mile Oslo to Bergen railway is the highest major rail route in northern Europe as well as one of the most spectacular. Passing through desolate mountain terrain at 4,000ft, and running for nearly 60 miles above the tree line.

Even in summer, there is snow, but don’t let this deter you from stopping off at Myrdal to change onto the Flam Railway, Europe’s steepest line on conventional tracks, dropping 2,831 feet down to the fjord below.

Bernina Express

bernina express best rail journeys

Running from Chur and St Moritz in eastern Switzerland to Tirano in northern Italy, the Bernina Express is up there with the most scenic railway journeys in the world. The four-hour, 90-mile journey through 55 tunnels and 196 bridges traverses a sensational alpine landscape, past lofty waterfalls, glaciers and crossing dramatic ravines.

Every carriage has vista windows so nobody gets a crick in the neck and the climb over the Bernina pass at 7,000ft is often in a raging snowstorm, while you can bask at a café table on arrival in the warm Italian sunshine.

Transalpina railway

Most people haven’t heard of the Transalpina railway which is why it’s nearly perfect in some rail travellers’ eyes. Whilst smaller than it used to be under the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the railway still runs between Jesenice and Nova Gorica in Slovenia from where you can get off and stroll into the historic Italian city of Gorizia with no border control.

The journey is a spectacular tour of Slovenia’s upland highlights, climbing through mountain villages along the Soča River, passing through superb Alpine scenery near Lake Bohinj, and on past Lake Bled’s iconic castle.

The train to the Arctic Circle

arctic circle train journeys

Brrrr… wrap up well since we’re off to the Arctic Circle on Europe’s most northerly journey! This train journey takes you from Stockholm to the port of Narvik in northern Norway. This isn’t the most luxurious train journey on the list but it’s certainly enjoyable!

Mingle with locals and tourists in the restaurant car while feasting on reindeer stew and mash. You’ll be appreciative of this cosy meal which only gets better as the weather gets colder. Once you’re full make it your mission to spot the elks outside!

The Trans-Harz and Brocken Railway

The Trans-Harz and Brocken Railway traverse through the Harz Mountain region and Harz National Park in Germany. The railways both still run on steam locomotives so if you know a train enthusiast they’ll love this! As you huff and puff your way up the highest peak in the park you’ll be blown away by the view!

Glacier Express

Any train lover or traveller worth their salt will have heard of the Glacier Express. Widely regarded as one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world, the Glacier Express twists and turns through 91 tunnels and 291 bridges as it makes its way from St. Moritz to Zermatt over 7 hours.

The green rolling pasture, the craggy Alps, beautiful wooden chalets and a train that always runs on time? What else could you ask for?

Belgrade to Bar in Serbia & Montenegro

belgrade to bar train

Prepare yourself for this 10 hour epic through the Balkans as you travel from Belgrade to Bar!

Three trains daily leave the Serbian capital bound for the Adriatic coast on a railway that was, unusually, only completed 40 years ago. The journey offers excellent views of the Balkans ranges, fast-flowing rivers, and even pops into Bosnia and Herzegovina for a short stretch.

Should one 10-hour train ride feel too long then consider cutting the journey short in Podgorica, Montenegro’s diminutive capital. It’s then a short hop to the coast via the beautiful Skadar Lake.

Orient Express

The Orient Express has to be the world’s most famous train. Featured in movies, on TV shows and countless novels. The original route used to cross Europe from Paris to Vienna giving passengers some beautiful scenery outside the window. Although the train stopped running in 2009, hotel chain Belmond bought the rights to the name and the train and now runs a number of luxury rail journeys on various routes including the iconic Paris-Istanbul line.

The Best North American Rail Journeys

North America doesn’t really do trains, but when they do there are some incredible views!

Rocky Mountaineer

rocky mountaineer world's best train journeys
IMG: ROCKYMOUNTAINHOLIDAYS.COM

I was so incredibly excited about visiting Banff National Park when we moved to Canada. The views look amazing and watching from a warm seat in a train carriage might just be one of the best ways to cut through the Canadian Rockies. The journey through the Rocky Mountains by train takes two days. It’ll depart from the ski resort of Banff in Alberta before heading out towards the city of Vancouver, passing the beautiful Canadian Rockies as it goes.

The Rocky Mountaineer is one of the world’s best railway journeys in terms of scenery and the in-car dining service is said to be delicious! If you fancy splurging then opt for the GoldLeaf Service and you’ll be treated to plentiful made to order breakfasts, lunches and unlimited cocktails and snacks!

Denali Star

Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife on this train as you could spot massive moose of big grizzly bears whilst crossing the Alaskan tundra from Anchorage to Fairbanks on the Denali Star. If you’ve splashed out and booked the panoramic GoldStar double-decker dome car you’ll find the view even more incredible, particularly when Mt. McKinley comes into view.

Napa Valley Wine Train

How many varieties of wine can you sip on the 3 hours, 36-mile round trip or lunch and dinner journey of the Napa Valley Wine Train? In the train’s Zinfandel Wine Tasting Lounge, you’ll have your pic but make sure you’ve taken the time to enjoy passing the sun-kissed vineyard views outside first. Enjoying a freshly made meal in the 1915-1917 Pullman dining car is the perfect way to enjoy your ride.

Adirondack mountains

adirondack mountain train journey usa

This 381 mile railway journey from New York City to Montréal has a reputation for being slower than a wheeled wagon on a track. If you like to travel fast then this one isn’t for you but I promise it’ll make up for it with the breathtaking vistas of the Hudson River Valley and the Adirondack Mountains.

California Zephyr

The California Zephyr is an epic railway journey which carves its way across the American Midwest to the West Coast. Much of the rail journey is through seemingly endless cornfields – not entirely the most exciting thing to see out of your window for a few hours. Be patient though, this train journey is still worth it.

As soon as you hit Denver you’ll be running alongside the Colorado River and crossing the Rocky Mountains and Ruby Canyon as you head towards San Francisco. At a leisurely pace of just 55mph, you’ll have plenty of time to take it all in!

The Best Train Rides in Asia

Experience something completely mind blowing when you take a railway journey in Asia!

Eastern & Orient Express

Starting in Singapore and ending in Bangkok, this rail journey definitely beats the long bus journeys most travellers in south-east Asia are used to.

Along the way you can stop off at Kuala Lumpur, Butterworth (Malaysia) and Kanchanaburi (Thailand), covering a total of 1,262 miles.

With its stunning natural beauty, excellent Thai/Malaysian food, and luxurious interiors, you can see why it ranks among the 25 best train journeys in the world.

Reunification Express

reunification express train vietnam
IMG: TRAVEL & LEISURE

There’s really no better way to get to the heart of Vietnam than travelling with the locals on the Reunification Express. This 2-day journey from Hanoi to Saigon gives you a panoramic view of Vietnamese life. French colonialists may have built the line but its spirit derives from the reunification of the two nations severed by the Vietnam War.

Trains include modern air-conditioned sleeping cars, with comfortable, if slightly tatty berths. According to those who have done it, the best bit could be sharing your berth with a Vietnamese family, who will quickly become your best friends.

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is so picturesque that it’s even a World Heritage Site complete with wheezing British-built steam locomotives from the Victorian era. The line climbs 6,500ft from India’s sweltering plains near Kolkata to the fresh air of the Raj hill station at Darjeeling.

The train isn’t just for tourists as it performs a vital social function to taking the local villages home and away on its 50-mile journey. Near the top, the train doubles back on itself through four zigzag loops to allow passengers to acclimatise. Breathtaking.

Express

maharajas express train journey in indiaBeginning in 2010, the Maharajas Express was a recreation of the luxurious carriages of days gone by. The Maharajas Express began by taking only 88 passengers from Delhi to Mumbai on a train journey that lasted 3-7 nights.

The journey takes passengers through colourful Rajasthan to numerous attractions including Agra, Jaipur, Udaipur and Ranthambore where you can catch sight of Bengal tigers in the wild!

The Qingzang railway

There’s also emergency oxygen on board the Qingzang railway in China and you’ll have to give your signature on a health registration card before you travel too! The train, which runs on the world’s highest track, climbs up to 5,000m above sea level on this 2,703 mile trek with temperatures plummeting so drastically that water in the toilet bowls has to be heated to prevent it from freezing!

The Trans-Siberian

trans siberian train russia
IMG: JUSTGORUSSIA.CO.UK

Go the whole hog and complete the ultimate rail journey (one I’d love to do myself) and ride the Trans-Siberian railway. During this 5,753 miles long railway you can cross 8 time zones and two continents, visit towns on the infamous silk road route or cross through parts of the Russian Arctic.

The Trans-Siberian is actually a number of services which range from slow, local stoppers to grand international trains such as the luxurious Golden Eagle train complete with sumptuous suites, fine dining and even an onboard doctor! Some routes even take you all the way to Beijing in China!

Australasian rail journeys

Explore remote areas by train, these truly are some of the best train journeys in the world.

The Ghan

Easily the most comfortable way to witness the scenic beauty of the Australian outback is to ride on The Ghan train from the sweltering tropics of Darwin, through the red desert of Alice Springs and ending up at Adelaide.

The luxury train covers 1,851 miles through the heart of Australia allowing you to experience life in the country’s remotest towns.

Look out for camels and kangaroos as you ride across Australia.

The Coastal Pacific Journey

new zealand coastal pacific journey best railway journeys

The Coastal Pacific journey from Picton to Christchurch is a classy New Zealand railway that rivals its more famous counterpart: the TranzAlpine. Often combined with the InterIslander ferry from Wellington, this journey begins in Picton, home to the beautiful sunken valleys of the Marlborough Sounds.

Wine enthusiasts may struggle to part from the world-famous Sauvignon Blancs that grow on the warm, misty slopes here, but a glass or two forms the perfect accompaniment to the hours of dreamy coastal trundling that the train journeys offer.

Tranzalpine rail journey

From the garden-loving city of Christchurch, New Zealand (where you can go punting on the river Avon) to the rugged wilds of Greymouth (where you can climb the nearby Franz Josef Glacier). The TranzAlpine crosses the South Island of New Zealand in 4.5 hours, offering up vistas of Canterbury plains farmland and the Waimakiriri River. This is followed by dramatic alpine viaducts leading to Arthur’s Pass.

Hiram Bingham Orient Express

Machu Picchu Salkantay Trek

If a trek to Machu Picchu doesn’t sound like your cup of tea then treat yourself to a ride on The Hiram Bingham.

As one of the most renowned luxury rail experiences in the world, you can expect to pay more than $100 an hour not only because you’re in a swanky vintage train but because you’re climbing up to Machu Picchu!

The Train to the Clouds

Altitude seeker? Then the Tren a las Nubes in Argentina is for you! Leaving Salta and climbing 13,800ft on the way to Chile, this 7 hour journey displays some of the most dramatic Andean scenery there is.

The backdrop of multicoloured rock formations interspersed with giant cactus fields extends as far as the eye can see! And should you be worried about the altitude there’s oxygen on board!

The Hershey Electric Railway

This remarkable railway journey can be found in Havana, Cuba so you better visit quickly before it’s upgraded! The 57-mile service links Havana’s Casablanca Station which can be reached via ferry with the ride across the harbour from Habana Vieja. There are farming villages and small towns all the way to Matanzas making for great photos of Cuba.

Yes, the name does come from the chocolate brand as they built it back in 1917. It might be unpredictable but that’s what gives it its charm! This line gives a chance to travel with, and meet ordinary Cubans and experience a rural way of life that may not be around forever.

The Best Train Journeys in Africa

Where you’ll probably find the most luxurious train journeys in the world!

Blue Train

blue train south africa cape town best train journeys in the world

South Africa’s Blue Train definitely isn’t cheap at around £2,000 a head. The stunning views, 5-star hotel worthy facilities and decor and excellent service make it worthwhile.

You’ll journey over a 1,000 miles across the South African countryside from Cape Town to Pretoria over forests, grasslands, hills, valleys and endless wilderness.

Rovos Rail

This epic 15-day railway journey takes you through South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Tanzania for the ultimate African rail trip. Visit historic villages, the Selous Game Reserve, the diamond town of Kimberley, Victoria Falls, the Great Rift Valley, and much, much more along the way.

Don’t forget to pack your smart gear as for men a jacket and tie is required at dinner or a cocktail or evening dress for women!

These are Airbnbs top 10 Spring Destinations to Visit This Year

The mildly warm weather and unusually bright blue February skies have gotten many of us wanting to soak up the sun properly – somewhere with deserted shores, infinity pools, cabanas and cocktails. Whether you’re looking for a real barefoot toes-in-the-sand kind of holiday, or would prefer a quick city break to beat the crowds before Easter, Airbnb have revealed their hottest spring holiday destinations based on what people are searching for. And it’s a list that has something for everyone.

Slide 1 of 11: The mildly warm weather and unusually bright blue February skies have gotten many of us wanting to soak up the sun properly - somewhere with deserted shores, infinity pools, cabanas and cocktails. Whether you’re looking for a real barefoot toes-in-the-sand kind of holiday, or would prefer a quick city break to beat the crowds before Easter, Airbnb have revealed their hottest spring holiday destinations based on what people are searching for. And it’s a list that has something for everyone.

 

Carolina, Puerto Rico

Natural and understated, this quiet corner in Puerto Rico is the best place to beat the crowds. Situated in the Northeast coast with close links to the capital San Juan, you can choose between beaches rippled with miles of sand dunes or zip to the city centre for its culture.

Natural and understated, this quiet corner in Puerto Rico is the best place to beat the crowds. Situated in the Northeast coast with close links to the capital San Juan, you can choose between beaches rippled with miles of sand dunes or zip to the city centre for its culture.We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article. BOOK HERE

 

Monterrey is Mexico

Monterrey is Mexico’s third-largest city that has a humming creative scene, vibrant nightlife and is jam-packed with top-notch restaurants. Fly out for a visit this spring and you’ll want to rebook for next year straight away.

Monterrey is Mexico’s third-largest city that has a humming creative scene, vibrant nightlife and is jam-packed with top-notch restaurants. Fly out for a visit this spring and you’ll want to rebook for next year straight away.BOOK HERE

Santos, Brazil

Travellers can’t get enough of this coastal city. Here, you’ll find plenty of chic-but-affordable hotels, glorious silky ribbons of sand by the water and beachfront cafes where the only sound you’ll hear is the waves crashing against the shore. It’s a long flight though, so you’ll need more than just a few days here.

Travellers can’t get enough of this coastal city. Here, you’ll find plenty of chic-but-affordable hotels, glorious silky ribbons of sand by the water and beachfront cafes where the only sound you’ll hear is the waves crashing against the shore. It’s a long flight though, so you’ll need more than just a few days here.BOOK HERE

San Juan, Puerto Rico

San Juan also made the list, known for being the historical city pulsating with modern energy. The area was hit by Hurricane Irma back in September 2017, but remained to rebuild itself into something quite beautiful. You can land at the airport and be swimming around in the waters just moments later, and we all know there’s nothing better than that.BOOK HERE

San Juan also made the list, known for being the historical city pulsating with modern energy. The area was hit by Hurricane Irma back in September 2017, but remained to rebuild itself into something quite beautiful. You can land at the airport and be swimming around in the waters just moments later, and we all know there’s nothing better than that.BOOK HERE

Dapa, Philippines 

This palm-covered, lesser-known corner of the Philippines has smouldering views you have to see to believe. There’s no thumping club scene here. It’s entirely tranquil, best known for its legendary sunsets where backpackers stop looking to escape civilisation. Get here before everyone else does.

This palm-covered, lesser-known corner of the Philippines has smouldering views you have to see to believe. There’s no thumping club scene here. It’s entirely tranquil, best known for its legendary sunsets where backpackers stop looking to escape civilisation. Get here before everyone else does.BOOK HERE

 

From hammock-strewn beaches to extraordinary scuba diving spots, a visit here will send anyone into a happy-go-lucky state of mind. No wonder it’s one of the most-searched for spots on Airbnb for this spring.

From hammock-strewn beaches to extraordinary scuba diving spots, a visit here will send anyone into a happy-go-lucky state of mind. No wonder it’s one of the most-searched for spots on Airbnb for this spring.BOOK HERE

Vladivostok, Russia

This thoroughly charming city has a beautiful hilly setting, striking architecture and is a place for many adventures. Filled with fascinating history and stories from its Soviet era, it’s steeped in culture for visitors to soak up.

This thoroughly charming city has a beautiful hilly setting, striking architecture and is a place for many adventures. Filled with fascinating history and stories from its Soviet era, it’s steeped in culture for visitors to soak up. BOOK HERE

 

Cologne, Germany

This 2000-year-old city is the region’s cultural hub. Filled with avant-garde structures, medieval churches and museums on every corner, everyone will love a weekend city break here. And if you’ve still got time, hop on the Deutsche Bahn for a 45-minute train journey into the beautiful mountainous range in the Westerwald. This is the kind of place where visiting just once isn’t an option.

This 2000-year-old city is the region’s cultural hub. Filled with avant-garde structures, medieval churches and museums on every corner, everyone will love a weekend city break here. And if you’ve still got time, hop on the Deutsche Bahn for a 45-minute train journey into the beautiful mountainous range in the Westerwald. This is the kind of place where visiting just once isn’t an option.BOOK NOW

Williams, Arizona

Known as the gateway to the Grand Canyon, high-desert Williams is filled with Americana-style restaurants and shops that date back to the 1900s. Take a visit to the Bearizona Wildlife Park or Pete’s Route 66 Gas Station Museum to really taste the bygone era that once was.

Known as the gateway to the Grand Canyon, high-desert Williams is filled with Americana-style restaurants and shops that date back to the 1900s. Take a visit to the Bearizona Wildlife Park or Pete’s Route 66 Gas Station Museum to really taste the bygone era that once was.BOOK NOW

Guadeloupe

The French Caribbean Archipelago is one of the most untouched destinations that definitely shouldn’t be missed. With a string of beach towns, soaring mountain ranges and crystal-clear waters, it’s one of the most beautiful places on Earth. And there’s no surprise it’s one of Airbnb’s most-searched-for destinations.BOOK NOW

The French Caribbean Archipelago is one of the most untouched destinations that definitely shouldn’t be missed. With a string of beach towns, soaring mountain ranges and crystal-clear waters, it’s one of the most beautiful places on Earth. And there’s no surprise it’s one of Airbnb’s most-searched-for destinations.BOOK NOW

Airbnb reaches half a billion reservations from travellers

Getty
© Getty Getty

Since its launch in 2007, the US giant of accommodation rental between individuals claims to have reached half a billion travellers, it reported in a release that profiles its members.

Airbnb is now active in 191 countries and over 81,000 cities worldwide. Travellers can choose from some six million residences, ranging from everyday homes to yurts, treehouses or cabins on a boat. There are even over 4,000 castles.

Getty
© Getty Getty

In its report, the platform says that over 75 cities around the world have welcomed at least a million travellers thanks to its portfolio, including Auckland in New Zealand, Mexico City in Mexico, Cape Town in South Africa, Havana in Cuba, Split in Croatia, Chongqing in China and Pusan in South Korea. Meanwhile American hosts have handed over their keys to travellers from almost every country in the world.

Since the launch of its business model, the US company has helped people who host travellers to earn 65 billion dollars. Over half of hosts are women, and a million are aged over 50.

Airbnb counts six million vacation rentals.
© Provided by AFPRelaxNews Airbnb counts six million vacation rentals.

Travellers generally find their stays satisfactory. On average, they rate their accommodation at 4.7 out of 5.

 

Airbnb reaches half a billion reservations from travellers

Getty

Since its launch in 2007, the US giant of accommodation rental between individuals claims to have reached half a billion travellers, it reported in a release that profiles its members.

Airbnb is now active in 191 countries and over 81,000 cities worldwide. Travellers can choose from some six million residences, ranging from everyday homes to yurts, treehouses or cabins on a boat. There are even over 4,000 castles.

Getty© Getty Getty

In its report, the platform says that over 75 cities around the world have welcomed at least a million travellers thanks to its portfolio, including Auckland in New Zealand, Mexico City in Mexico, Cape Town in South Africa, Havana in Cuba, Split in Croatia, Chongqing in China and Pusan in South Korea. Meanwhile American hosts have handed over their keys to travellers from almost every country in the world.

Since the launch of its business model, the US company has helped people who host travellers to earn 65 billion dollars. Over half of hosts are women, and a million are aged over 50.

Airbnb counts six million vacation rentals.© Provided by AFPRelaxNews Airbnb counts six million vacation rentals.

Travellers generally find their stays satisfactory. On average, they rate their accommodation at 4.7 out of 5.

The Ultimate Harry Potter Travel Bucket List

Alnwick Castle, England

1

Alnwick Castle, England

Harry Potter and his classmates had their very first flying lesson on the grounds of the Alnwick Castle in Alnwick, England, a historical structure that has been around since the late 1000s. Other exterior shots of the Hogwarts castle were filmed at Lacock Abbey, Christ Church, Oxford University, and Durham Cathedral.

2

The Elephant House, Scotland

When J.K. Rowling began writing the Harry Potter series, she was a single mother who was struggling financially. She spent much time in the back room of the Elephant Housecoffeehouse in the heart of Edinburgh, Scotland, creating the wizarding world that we now know and love. Fans of the series have written heartfelt and hilarious messages all over the bathroom walls of the establishment, and it’s hard not to feel a connection to Harry Potter and Rowling when settled inside the comfy cafe with a good book in hand.

3

Leadenhall Market, London

Leadenhall Market in London is the inspiration for the wizarding shopping center known as Diagon Alley. It’s on this bustling street that you will find the front of the Leaky Cauldron used in the Harry Potter films.

4

The Jacobite, Scotland

The Jacobite steam train runs from Fort William in Scotland to Mallaig on the west coast of Scotland. The train ride gives great views of the rolling Scottish hills and passes over the same bridge that the Hogwarts Express runs through in the Harry Potter movies. Unfortunately, The Jacobite is lacking when it comes to pumpkin pasties and chocolate frogs.

5

Black Park Country Park, England

Despite being the filming location for the Forbidden Forest in the Harry Potter films, the real forest in Black Park in Iver, England, does not hide centaurs, unicorns, or Aragog’s giant spider family. At least not that we know of . . .

7

Georgian House Hotel, London

For the warm ambiance of Hogwarts’s own Gryffindor Tower, book a Harry Potter-themed room at the Georgian Hotel in London. The rooms are complete with cauldrons, magic books, and other essential wizarding supplies.

8

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Florida

When you enter the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios in Orlando, FL, prepare to be overcome with childlike wonder — no matter how old you are. Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade Village are some highlights, but don’t miss out on the wand-choosing ceremony and a glass of frothy Butterbeer.

 

9

Kings Cross, London

You can’t go to London without stopping by the iconic platform 9 3/4 at Kings Cross station, where the bespectacled 11-year-old boy from the Harry Potter books and movies made his first attempt to cross from the Muggle world into the wizarding one waiting for him. The station recently added a Platform 9 3/4 shop next to its trolley, so fans can shop for Hogwarts gear before imagining their trip through the brick wall.

10

Bodleian Library, Oxford

Scenes in the Hogwarts library were filmed in the famous Bodleian Library at the University of Oxford. We think even Hermione would be impressed with the real-life version of her favorite spot in school.

11

Christ Church, Oxford

In addition to being the facade of some of the movie’s castle scenes, the vast interior of Christ Church in Oxford was also home to Harry Potter’s Great Hall in the films.

12

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Japan

Japan’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Osaka has its own Great Lake — also known as Black Lake — live owls, Hogsmeade Village, and special attractions like the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride.

13

Harrow Hall, London

Professor Flitwick, the Charms professor and head of Ravenclaw house at Hogwarts, did his best to teach students how to levitate objects and perform magic without harming themselves or fellow students, though he didn’t always succeed — especially when Seamus Finnigan and Ron Weasley were involved. Fans can view the room used to portray his class in Harrow Hall at the real boarding school in London.

14

Millennium Bridge, London

While sights of the bridge that the Death Eaters brought down in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince may make Potterheads cringe with the memory of it, we assure you that the real thing is intact and a great sight to see.

15

Whimsic Alley, Los Angeles

The cleverly named Whimsic Alley is a shop loaded with gifts, gadgets, and gizmos that Harry Potter fans will be busting out their galleons — er, credit cards — for. The store is also home to a Harry Potter-themed cafeteria that can be found if you venture through a narrow corridor in the back.

16

The London Zoo, London

While a giant talking snake magically emerged from his tank in Harry Potter and the Sorceror’s Stone, rest assured that the London Zoo Reptile House, where the scene was filmed, is entirely safe for visitors.

17

Warner Bros. Studio Tour, London

Book a tour at London’s Warner Bros. Studios for amazing photo ops and realistic reenactments that will make you feel, if only for a second, as if the magical world might really exist.

18

4 Privet Drive, Little Whinging, Surrey

Get a good look at where it all began for The Boy Who Lived with a trip to 4 Privet Drive. The home for the movies was actually filmed at 12 Picket Post Close in Martins Heron, Berkshire, which is where many people go for photos. However, hardcore fans have scoped out the actual location of the Muggle abode and say it can really be found in Surrey, although the house is quite different than the one in the movies. If you can’t make it to either of these, then don’t miss Privet Drive on the London Studio Tour!

19

Goathland Station, England

Goathland Railway Station in North Yorkshire, England, was used as Hogsmeade Station in the films, and the quaint station makes for great photos — although fans will have to hop on The Jacobite steam train for the full Hogwarts Express effect.

20

Wynott’s Wands, Massachusetts

Tucked away in the historic town of Salem, MA, is a Harry Potter gem. Wynott’s Wands is a small shop in the heart of the famous town known for its own kind of witchy magic, and fans will find all their Potterhead hearts’ desires within its walls.

21

Lacock Abbey, England

Lacock Abbey, founded in the early 13th century, is located in the village of Lacock, Wiltshire, England. Fans will recognize the alley from scenes in both Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets and Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.

22

Quidditch World Cup, South Carolina

Yes, Quidditch is now a real sport, and yes, there is an actual world cup that players and fans alike can attend. Cheer on your favorite (nonflying) team at the US Quidditch World Cup, which takes place in April 2015 in Rock Hill, SC.

23

Balmoral Hotel, Scotland

The beautiful Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh, Scotland, was known as one of the great railway hotels in the early 1900s, but Harry Potter fans will find that the most important fact has nothing to do with trains. J.K. Rowling finished Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, the final book of the series, in the grand suite of the hotel. The door knocker is an owl in her honor.

24

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Los Angeles

The Wizarding Worlds of Harry Potter continue to multiply — the most recent opening of another magical movie-themed park was at Universal Studios in Hollywood — and it’s magical!

America’s most magical RV road trips revealed

Slide 1 of 41: An RV affords you the freedom to take to the open road and the USA has a staggering number of tried-and-tested routes perfect for a motorhome adventure. From scenic byways looping through national parks to epic multi-state expeditions, we've ranked the top journeys for RV road-trippers in the States.

Slide 2 of 41: New York’s Cayuga Lake Scenic Byway makes an 86-mile loop around one of Finger Lakes’ narrow stretches of water. The route runs from the town of Seneca Falls in the north right down to Ithaca in the south, and along the way you’ll pass leafy state parks, wineries and dinky villages rich in history. Views of Cayuga Lake glitter along the entirety of the route.

Slide 3 of 41: Highlights include the Montezuma Wildlife Refuge with its bald eagles and abundant waterfowl, plus the 215-foot watery cascade in Taughannock Falls State Park (pictured). Some 28 wineries stud the byway too, each one as scenic as the next, from rustic Buttonwood Grove to family-owned-and-operated Cayuga Ridge Estate. Finish up in Ithaca, where the pedestrianized downtown area (named Ithaca Commons) is filled with quirky shops and restaurants.
Slide 4 of 41: If it’s the great open road you’re after, this 70-mile byway in the Black Hills of South Dakota delivers. You can join the squat, figure of eight-shaped route at various points, though a popular spot to begin the journey is at the tourist town of Keystone. Once en route, four highways (244, 16A, 89 and 87) lace together to create the scenic road which passes by jaw-dropping rockscapes and through stone tunnels.

Slide 5 of 41: The byway is rich in historical monuments, from the stony presidential faces of Mount Rushmore near Keystone to the mammoth Crazy Horse Memorial in the route’s western reaches. It’s not light on scenery either. You’ll pass along the white-knuckle Needles Highway with imposing granite pillars and narrow tunnels. You’ll also slice through Custer State Park where bison graze on the open plains and trails criss-cross the 71,000 acres.

Slide 6 of 41: While many RVers might steer clear of The Last Frontier state, if you come prepared, a road trip in Alaska can be a truly rewarding experience. A good place to start is with the 323-mile George Parks Highway (often called Parks Highway), which joins up the major Alaskan cities of Anchorage and Fairbanks. While this isn’t true of all of Alaska’s stark highways, you’ll find plenty of RV parks along the way, particularly around Denali National Park and the route’s bookending cities.

Slide 7 of 41: For most, the crowning jewel of the route will be Denali National Park. George Parks Highway hugs the eastern edge of the park and slices right through its southeastern corner. Aside from the breathtaking mountain vistas, highlights here include the poignant Alaska Veterans Memorial (pictured). You can also drink in views of the 20,000-plus-foot Denali peak (formerly Mount McKinley). Wrap up your trip in Anchorage where the Alaska National Heritage Center is the standout attraction.

Slide 8 of 41: Dubbed “the road that built the nation”, the Historic National Road, which weaves for 170 miles through Maryland, was the first federally funded roadway in the United States. Its entire expanse is dripping in history. Many road-trippers choose to begin eastward in buzzing Baltimore, before striking west towards the town of Grantsville and the Casselman River Bridge State Park (pictured).

Slide 9 of 41: Be sure to soak up the sights in Maryland’s second city, from the fascinating Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Museum to the historic ships in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor area. Further west you’ll find Frederick with its National Museum of Civil War Medicine and nearby Fort Frederick State Park, home to an 18th-century fortress and plenty of hiking trails. Finish in the historic town of Grantsville, home to an absorbing community museum and a handful of idyllic state parks.

Slide 10 of 41: The Great River road does what it says on the tin – it follows one of America’s great waterways, the Mississippi River, through 10 states and along a whopping 3,000 miles. The road begins in Itasca State Park in northwestern Minnesota and weaves right down to Louisiana and the bright lights of New Orleans. If you want to travel from top to bottom you’ll need at least two weeks to soak up the sights. Luckily, there are plenty of comfortable RV parks to rest up along the way.

Slide 11 of 41: The Great River Road traces Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi and Louisiana – given the sheer breadth of the route, there are sights to satisfy every interest. Visit the Mississippi River Center in Saint Paul, Minnesota, to learn more about “The Big Muddy”, and explore the sacred Native American site of the Effigy Mounds in Iowa. Make time to gaze up at the famed Gateway Arch in St Louis (pictured) and to catch some live music on NOLA’s Bourbon Street.

Slide 12 of 41: Both a “High Road” and a “Low Road” connect Taos and Santa Fe, and if you travel them both you’ll embark on a 165-mile round trip that takes in some of New Mexico’s most incredible sights and scenery. Beginning in Santa Fe, first take the High Road, which weaves through historic villages and grants epic views of the Jemez Mountains. Once you’ve experienced the charms of Taos, loop back on the Low Road which follows the Rio Grande into a slender canyon.

Slide 13 of 41: The High Road portion of the trip passes through Chimayó, a historic and picturesque region known for its weaving tradition and El Santuario de Chimayó, an important 19th-century church and pilgrimage site. In Taos, there are sights aplenty from cultural shrines like the Harwood Museum of Art to the Taos Pueblo, an adobe settlement designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the way back to Santa Fe, the sweeping river views steal the show.

Slide 14 of 41: If you want to pair your next RV getaway with a spot of leaf peeping, embark on this New England route in the fall. A riot of color through the golden season, the road is also billed as the “first scenic road in New England”, having been designated as such in 1914. It winds for 63 miles through northern Massachusetts, with popular road trips starting in neat Williamstown and spooling east to the city of Greenfield.
Slide 15 of 41: The rollings hills of the Berkshires, lush in summer and gold, ocher and burnt red in fall, are the route’s crowning jewel – but there are plenty of places to get your cultural fix too. There’s Williamstown, home to the lauded Clark Art Institute (pictured) and an award-winning theater festival. There’s also the city of North Adams with historic mills and a fall foliage festival. The Natural Bridge State Park will satisfy lovers of the outdoors too. Find under-the-radar spots for leaf peeping here.

Slide 16 of 41: If the sound of silence and more than a little solitude appeals, then this slice of US Highway 50, nicknamed the Loneliest Road in America, should appeal. The route beats a 285-mile path east across Nevada, from Carson City, the state’s capital, to the little town of Baker, right near the border with Utah. The romantic route will throw up visions of the Old West as you pass through stark valleys and old mining towns.
Slide 17 of 41: Despite the road’s nickname, you’ll find plenty to occupy you along the way. Stop off at Grimes Point Archeological Area to see Native American petroglyphs and at the Sand Mountain Recreation Area to discover gargantuan dunes ripe for adventure. The old mining town of Austin is another top stop: it offers incredible views of the Toiyabe Mountain Range, restaurants along historic Main Street and plenty of sites to park up your RV for the night.

Slide 18 of 41: It’s not hard to see why this breathtaking Oregon byway is nicknamed the King of Roads. Designated a National Historic Landmark, it hugs the plunging Columbia River Gorge and spreads out for some 70 miles. The byway begins at the pretty city of Troutdale and carries on east to the city of The Dalles, where the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center and Museum will bring your journey into focus.

Slide 19 of 41: There are plenty of scenic pitstops along the way. The Portland Women’s Forum State Scenic Viewpoint (pictured) is one of the most popular spots to drink in the river views. Further on you’ll reach the Horsetail Falls Trail, a four-mile loop that passes five thundering waterfalls. Part of the Highway was damaged in a wildfire in 2017 and has been subject to closures ever since – check for travel alerts if you plan to drive this route.
Slide 20 of 41: If you’re dreaming of a coast-to-coast trip, an RV odyssey on Interstate 10 could be the one for you. The road, all 2,460 miles of it, travels from Santa Monica, California to Jacksonville, Florida, so you can paddle in the Pacific and the Atlantic Ocean in the space of a single trip. The mammoth route encompasses eight Southern states, including Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama.

Slide 21 of 41: You’ll need a fortnight at the very least to take in just some of what this lengthy route has to offer. Feast on desert-inspired dishes in Tucson, the United States’ first UNESCO City of Gastronomy, and take a hike amid the giant cacti in Saguaro National Park (pictured). Further east there’s Las Cruces, New Mexico, with easy access to the White Sands National Monument. Be sure to visit the effortlessly cool Texan city of San Antonio, before finishing up with the family-friendly attractions of Jacksonville, Florida.

Slide 22 of 41: This 236-mile scenic byway cuts through the San Juan Mountains which are carpeted with evergreen trees, capped with snow and peppered with photogenic, high-altitude towns. The Skyway is a looping road, extending over Routes 550, 160, 145 and 62, and it reaches from the picturesque town of Ridgeway in the north, down to the little city of Durango in the south.

Slide 23 of 41: The road itself is the main attraction here, with peaks and forestland flanking the Skyway at every turn. But there are plenty of towns worthy of a visit too. The historic railroad town of Durango is a top spot for history buffs, with visitors still able to ride the Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad steam train through stunning mountain scenery. Other highlights include the pretty resort town of Telluride (pictured) with its world-class skiing and summer biking and hiking trails.

Slide 24 of 41: One of four designated scenic byways in Maine, the Acadia All-American Road takes in a great swathe of the state’s rocky coast. Striking out for 40 miles, the road starts on Route 3, north of the little town of Trenton, before swinging out onto Mount Desert Island. From here it takes in a scenic portion of Acadia National Park and the waterside town of Bar Harbor, ever a popular spot with tourists.

Slide 26 of 41: Forming a 440-mile loop, this route rattles through North Cascades National Park, affording drivers views of towering peaks and verdant valleys, and reaching out west to windswept Puget Sound. The southern part of the loop follows the Stevens Pass Greenway, hemming the Skykomish River. Out east, the route cuts through the Methow Valley, a rugged slice of the countryside nicknamed Washington’s wild west.

Slide 27 of 41: You’ll have trouble keeping your eyes on the road as you pass through this beautiful wedge of the Pacific Northwest – but luckily there are plenty of RV sites where you can park up for a night or two. Highlights along the way include Skagit Valley, bright with tulips in the spring, and the town of Leavenworth, whose neat buildings could have been plucked from Bavaria. While in the North Cascades National Park, gaze up at the mighty bluff of Liberty Bell, rising like a church spire from the valley.

Slide 28 of 41: Those hankering after the rust-red rockscapes of the American southwest should look no further than Utah’s Scenic Byway 12. Unraveling for 123 miles, the route begins in the city of Panguitch and branches east to the town of Torrey, near Capitol Reef National Park, which makes a fine finish for your journey. The byway is studded with scenic overlooks so you can park up the RV and drink in the lunar vistas synonymous with this part of the States.

Slide 29 of 41: Natural wonders are this road’s major draw and the Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument is a top stop along the way. It’s an area rich in geological interest with narrow slot canyons and mushrooming bluffs. The fossil-filled Escalante Petrified Forest is a delight for archaeology lovers too. RV parks right in Escalante mean you don’t need to rush the journey.

Slide 31 of 41: While there’s much to see along the way, each end of this journey is a music-lover’s dream. In Memphis, Beale Street’s legendary music venues host artists of every genre, from blues and jazz to rock and country. In the Big Easy, Bourbon Street has its own slew of bars and jazz clubs, while the rest of the French Quarter charms architecture lovers with its colorful buildings decorated with wrought-iron balconies. Read our full guide to New Orleans here.

Slide 32 of 41: A shorter but no less glorious adventure, an RV ride along Montana’s Going-to-the-Sun Road offers natural wonders in spades. It extends 50 miles over Glacier National Park, edging past vast glossy lakes and forest-clad peaks, and looking down upon dramatic gorges and flower-strewn valleys. A portion of the road is usually closed from October through to June, so check the NPS website before you set out, particularly if your trip’s not scheduled for summer. 

Slide 33 of 41: The road grants photo-worthy views at every turn and parking spots line its expanse. Best of all is Logan Pass: the highest spot you can reach in your vehicle, it crosses the Continental Divide at a dizzying height of 6,646 feet. In summer, duck into the Logan Pass Visitor Information Center (pictured) where you can learn more about the spectacular scenery and wildlife you've been exploring.
Slide 34 of 41: Epic ocean views are the highlight of this 106-mile route which begins close to Miami and stretches out through the Florida Keys, right down to the quirky island city of Key West. A decent portion of the route is above the water, including the famous seven-mile bridge which juts out from the city of Marathon. Driving this open road, stopping to explore colorful cities and wildlife-rich refuges, is the ultimate way to discover the Keys.

Slide 35 of 41: The Bahia Honda State Park is a great place to make a splash – the clear, gentle waters are perfect for snorkeling and kayaking, and they’re fringed by pristine bands of sand. At the southernmost tip of the Keys, you’ll find Key West. Here you can grab a drink or peruse indie art galleries on the city’s historic Duval Street. Be sure to take a ferry out to Dry Tortugas National Park, home to hulking Fort Jefferson too. Discover more about the Florida Keys here.
Slide 36 of 41: There’s no more iconic journey than the long and winding Route 66. Made even more famous by rock songs and blockbuster movies, the road begins in Santa Monica, California and strikes east across states including Arizona, New Mexico and Oklahoma, before curving northward to end in Chicago, Illinois. The route spans a total of 2,448 miles.

Slide 37 of 41: Route 66’s famous roadways are peppered with RV parks and all manner of roadside attractions, from landmark retro diners like Mr D’z in Kingman, Arizona to curious art installations such as Amarillo’s psychedelic Cadillac Ranch. Round off your trip with the world-class art and architecture in Chicago, from sculptures in Millennium Park to the soaring skyscrapers of the city’s Magnificent Mile. And remember that the true highlight is the wide, open road.

Slide 38 of 41: The Blue Ridge Parkway is often touted as “America’s favorite drive” and it’s not difficult to see why. It spans two states and 469 beautiful miles, forming a diagonal line westward from Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The route grants heart-stirring vistas across the fog-cloaked Appalachian Highlands, plus wineries and comfortable places to park your motorhome.
Slide 39 of 41: The parkway is bookended by two glorious national parks, each one home to diverse wildlife, hiking routes and postcard views. But beyond these big hitters, there are plenty of sights en route. Top attractions include North Carolina's Craggy Gardens, a curious slice of the countryside known for its rhododendrons and twisting trees. Another popular stop is Linville Falls, a three-tiered cascade that’s an easy hike from the Parkway. 

Read more: The best place to stay in every state with your motorhome

 

Slide 40 of 41: The California coast was made for road-tripping and the Pacific Coast Highway (or Highway 1) is the queen of all routes. Travel south along the 590-mile stretch from San Francisco to San Diego and you’ll see the many faces of this diverse state, from lush wine regions and sandy shores to thrumming cities and peaceful redwood forests. 

Read more: 32 unusual things you'll find on a road trip through the USA
Slide 41 of 41: More than 100 miles south of San Francisco, Big Sur is the most famous portion of the Pacific Coast Highway. It stretches for around 90 miles, its gray crags plunging towards sandy strands and frothing Pacific waters – look out for arching Bixby Bridge, a popular photo stop. Further south still is sun-drenched Santa Barbara. Often overshadowed by San Francisco and Los Angeles, this city’s key sight is Old Mission Santa Barbara (pictured), an 18th-century Spanish mission. The highway tails off in San Diego where you can feast on Cali-Baja cuisine and discover the city’s diverse neighborhoods. Find out what else there is to do in this Californian city.

Read more: Millionaire motorhomes: the world's most expensive RVs

Disney Water Parks Enhancing Fun in the Sun

a group of people swimming in a pool of water: Blizzard Beach, Disney, Water Park

Thinking of a visit to Walt Disney World this spring or summer?

Don’t rule out a stop at the water parks to cool off.

In 2019, both Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon will feature thrilling experiences as well as exclusive food and beverage options you can’t get anywhere else at Disney.

Items like the Sand Pail Sundae at Typhoon Lagoon and the Key Lime Pie on a stick at Blizzard Beach are sure to be a big hit under the hot Florida sun.

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TravelPulse@TravelPulse

Unique themes and big thrills await at #Disney water parks – get an inside look with @EricBowman_ #travel

Disney Water Parks General Manager Mark Dukes told TravelPulse there are several new things for guests this year.

“We’ve got some exciting things going on with our cabanas we’ll be able to share in the next couple months, but we’re adding eleven new cabanas to Typhoon Lagoon between now and mid-June. We should have the last one of them open in June,” Dukes said.

The newly unveiled, limited time Splash Pack offer should also grab guests’ attention.

“It allows the guests to bundle some experiences, so they get a beach towel – one of our merchandise beach towels,” Dukes said. “So, it can be a Little Mermaid, it could be Typhoon Lagoon, Blizzard Beach, Toy Story, Mickey and Minnie. They get the refillable drink mugs, and then they get a lunch or dinner option with that as well. So, we’re bundling that for $44, which is about a 20 percent discount off what they would pay regularly.”

It’s a test phase for Disney available now through May 4, so stay tuned to see if it gets extended into the summer season.

Additionally, Disney is bringing back and expanding on H2O Glow at Typhoon Lagoon.

“It was so well received last year that we’re adding nine more events, and we’re actually expanding it an hour on the front end,” Dukes said.

H2O Glow will stick with the same ‘Party-Saurus Rex’ theme as last year, with Buzz, Woody and Jessie returning, pairing perfectly with the new Toy Story movie slated to release this year.

As the sun goes down, the party lights come up and a DJ will play tunes as a limited number of guests play, dance, eat and drink the night away.

The cap on how many visitors enter the park for the special event allows for short to no wait times on the rides. And you get the bonus of riding water slides at night.

For those who have yet to visit Blizzard Beach or Typhon Lagoon, the immersive experience is one you won’t forget.

“All of our rides have deep theming to them,” Dukes said. “You know, it’s not just a big plastic ride on a tower. Our rides are embedded into our story. Everything you see from the shipwrecked boats to the merchandise shop and food beverage locations all have deep theming on them as well. So, they’re just a great experience and a little different than what you might find in a water park back home.”

Plus, the majority of the rides at both parks don’t have a height requirement so the whole family can join in on the fun.

Home to the longest lazy river in the country, Blizzard Beach is an ideal place for relaxation with perfectly shaded cabanas but also plenty of beach lounge space to catch a tan. Plus, it’s perfect for families with kids of any age thanks to the two separate areas just for children. You can also set your emotions on edge if you ride Summit Plummet – the 120-foot tall free-fall body slide.

Typhoon Lagoon also packs plenty of thrills with rides like Crush ‘n’ Gusher and Miss Adventure Falls.

However, the real showstopper is the wave pool. Typhoon Lagoon features the only surf-able wave pool in the United States.

Around 10-12 guests will go out to surf school in the morning before park the opens to everyone. Disney partners with professional instructors here, with one instructor teaching before anyone enters the water and then two instructors in the water with the students, helping guide them to paddle and stand up to surf the waves.

It’s $165 for the class and guests will have two and a half hours of surf time. Riders must be eight years or older to participate in the surf school.

“The beautiful thing about our wave pool is that it’s the same wave one after another, so it’s consistent. If you were to go to the beach you could wait an hour for your next great wave but this one comes in the next three to five minutes,” Dukes said.

Those waves can reach up to six feet high and also break from three different directions, giving surfers plenty of ways to practice their skills. Even pros come out and rent the space for special events because the waves are always consistent.

Another area Disney continues to enhance is through food and targeting millennials.

On targeting those young adults, Dukes said “there’s an opportunity to ride some really thrilling rides and relax when you want to relax. There are great bars, very talented bartenders, fun drinks, amazing food. It’s not the typical hamburgers and hot dogs you find at across the country. It’s a really great menu with some fun flavor explosions and fun drinks.”

Frozen drinks and cool treats also make for great Instagram pictures.

“I’m very proud of our culinary staff,” Dukes said. “We’ve changed menus at both of the parks. We’ve really focused on creating some healthy options for our guests, but even our regular fun food is not what you experience most water parks. It’s above and beyond. And I’m really excited about what they put together.”

Both parks feature gluten-free and vegetarian offerings for meals as well. This includes unique flatbread pizza that goes beyond the traditional pepperoni. Step out of your comfort zone and try something new!

But if you really want a burger and fries, Disney comes through with incredible flavors in the Blizzard Burger that features a scrumptious “ham jam” on a pretzel bun. And you can’t go wrong with the Cuban Burger at Typhoon Lagoon either.

Another area of fun for millennials is Hammerhead Fred’s bar at Typhoon Lagoon. It features live entertainment and will become an adult’s only area at certain times during the year, making it a terrific escape for the millennials without kids.

The millennials who do have kids have plenty of options for fun in the sun for themselves and their children.

As for characters at the parks during the day, you’ll find Lilo and Stich at Typhoon Lagoon and Goofy at Blizzard Beach. However, there could be surprises in the future.

“We’re always looking to see based on the popularity of the movies at the time what we’re going to do, if we can bring some additional characters in or change them up,” Dukes said.

There’s a Pomeranian Café Coming to London This May

a small brown and white dog: Pomeranians

If you’re in London this May, you could make some new Pomeranian puppy friends, because a new pop-up cafe dedicated to the fluffy dogs is coming to the Happenstance, a bar and restaurant overlooking St Paul’s Cathedral.

Dog cafés, both pop-up and permanent ones, have been becoming popular destinations for both tourists and locals alike all over the world. New York City opened its first dog cafévin 2017, and one sought-after dog café in Thailand houses over 20 huskies for visitors to play with.

The Pom Café, which was created by Pug Café (an organization that also creates similar events for pugs across the U.K.) is cordially inviting Pomeranian owners and Pom-enthusiasts to join them for an afternoon of playtime and treats, as well as free Puppacinos and gifts for the dogs, The Metro reported.

The café will feature small dog-friendly snacks like pupcakes, dognuts, pupcorn, and pawsecco, to name a few, the Metro reported.

Human guests also get their fair share of free snacks, too, including two free cupcake, according to the event website. Plus, you’ll get to hang out with dogs on a nice, spring day. Who could ask for more?

The café is sponsored by Universal Pictures UK to celebrate the upcoming movie, “Secret Life of Pets 2,” opening May 24, according to the Metro and the event website. The event is in honor of the movie’s Pom resident, Gidget the Pomeranian.

“We are known for organizing fun and safe events for small breeds having already hosted pop-ups for pugs, Dachshunds and French bulldogs,” said Anushka Fernando, the organizer behind Pug Café to the Independent. “It’s very important to us that all our events are safe and enjoyable for dogs and humans.”

The pop-up will be split into two, 70-minute sessions in the afternoon on May 12, one beginning at 12:30 p.m. and the other beginning at 4:15 p.m.

Even if you’re not a Pomeranian owner, you can still come to the event, though it may cost a little more. Tickets for Pom-owners are £10 (about $13 USD), and £14 (about $18 USD) for anyone without a dog.

The Pug Café will also be hosting a Pomeranian event in Manchester on May 24.

Nicky Hilton’s New Fashion Line Will Make You Want To Travel

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Nicky Hilton’s newest fashion line solves your travel-packing predicaments. Heading to Spain? Pick up the Ibiza, a flirty, bias-cut frock whose saturated ombre hues come from the party island’s dazzling sunsets. Going to Mykonos? Opt for the strapless Aegan maxi dress covered with a Greek tile pattern in blue hues.

The 20 breezy silk dresses, tops, tunics and kimonos from the Nicky Hilton x Tolani, Spring 2019 Passport Collection were inspired by the jet-setting fashion designer’s favorite travel destinations.

Forbes Travel Guide talked to Hilton about her second collaboration with the womenswear brand, the souvenirs she must pick up when traveling and the one place that tops her bucket list.

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Rome

ISTOCK-TOMAS SEREDA

What are your favorite destinations?

Italy, definitely, is one of my favorite destinations. I met my husband in Italy. I love Italian food—I love pasta, pizza. It’s such a beautiful, special place.

What are some must-do activities in Italy?

Coffee. I have a weakness for Italian coffee. You can get an excellent cup of coffee anywhere there.

They have amazing pottery and ceramics, which I always come back with bundles of. All of my plateware and bowls, I bought in Ravello.

Which Italian city is best for shopping?

I love Rome. It has one of my favorite shops, CIR, in the Piazza Barberini. It has Incredible embroidered linens, tablecloths and children’s clothing. It’s very special. The craftsmanship is impeccable.

Favorite place for an amazing view?

The Italian coast is pretty incredible. Ravello, Positano and that view looking out is hard to beat.

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Hotel Lutetia

HOTEL LUTETIA

What was your most memorable trip?

Getting in engaged in Lake Como in a little small boat, in the middle of the water. And then we road tripped to Rome, where we met. We had the most fabulous weekend.

What are your favorite hotels?

There are so many. I love the Hotel Plaza Athénée Paris. I just love how it smells when you walk in. I have been staying there since I was a little girl, and I love the location and the rooms — it’s just amazing.

But actually, during my last trip [to Paris], I stayed in Saint Germain — I’d never stayed in that part of town — at Hotel Lutetia. I loved it. There was a just different energy over there — very chic, Parisian, boutique. Le Bon Marché is within walking distance from the hotel.

I like to get out of my comfort zone sometimes and try new things.

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Next Stop: Doha

ISTOCK-DANE FROM SPAIN

Where are you traveling to next?

I’m going to Doha. I’ve never been. That’s exciting. I’m seeing some friends, and there’s the FTA [Fashion Trust Arabia] awards and the big [Jean Nouvel-designed National Museum of Qatar] opening. I’m going to get some good sightseeing in and explore a little bit.

Are there any places on your travel wish list?

I really want to go to Bali. I’ve heard so many wonderful things and seen so many photos, but I’ve never been.

What do you pack on your carry-on?

I always pack a blanket and an eye mask from this brand it I found online. It’s called Mindfold, and there’s foam on the side so it’s completely blackout.

Dr. Barbara Sturm hyaluronic ampoules. It’s hyaluronic acid in these tubes that you crack open, and they keep you hydrated the whole flight.

Water, a book and a note pad to write down lists and ideas.

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The Positano from the Passport Collection

TOLANI

Most of the pieces in your new collection are inspired by beachy destinations. Do beaches top your itinerary when you travel?

I like to do a little of everything. Eating is always a priority, so before I travel somewhere, I’m getting tips from friends about the best restaurants. I love visiting the local museums. I love local flea markets; I’m decorating a new house so I’m constantly looking for new additions.

I love shopping. In Positano and Capri, there are so many of these stalls. I’ve picked up some incredible pictures. In St. Tropez, there are local artisans selling things like really cool homemade jewelry. Fun things.

Which pieces from the new collection do you wear most?

I love the Portofino piece because there are so many different ways to wear it. You can wear it as a dress. The other day in New York it was cold, so I wore it as a tunic with jeans. You also can wear it as a cover-up.

And then I’ve also been wearing the Montauk dress — that’s the one with the anchors.

And the Formentera kimono, I love also. I love a good print. It adds a fun splash of color to any outfit.

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Nicky Hilton Wearing The Antibes Top

TOLANI

What other projects are you working on?

I’m launching shoes with French Sole this fall, which is really exciting. I’ve designed clothing, handbags, jewelry, cosmetics, but I’ve never done footwear.

And when anyone ever asks me, “What’s your go-to outfit?,” it’s always skinny jeans, a blazer and ballet flats. I wear ballet flats every single day. I think they’re practical, they’re chic, they’re comfortable. So, my French Sole collaboration will have a lot of loafers and ballet flats.

And I love French Sole. I’ve been shopping at this store on the Upper East Side since I was in high school.

Feel like a royal and spend the night in one of these impressive castles

Slide 1 of 8: This 18th century rococo castle is perfect for the ultimate royal experience you've always dreamed of. Salzburg's famous palace was used as the main film location in 1965 movie "The Sound of Music", and the palace is majestic and glorious, both inside and out. Each suite is equipped with antique furniture and features stunning views over the idyllic lake and Untersberg Mountain. The massive library is ideal for reading in the evening and in the morning you get to enjoy breakfast like a real royal, served in the impressive ballroom. The gardens around the hotel won't leave you disappointed either. With seven hectares of lakeside gardens, the area is perfect for taking long relaxing strolls. Also the hotel offers three movie-themed suites for die-hard fans of the famous musical!

Slide 3 of 8: This monumental castle located above the valley of the Kwisa River Dam will win over all history buffs. It was designed as a fortress in the 13th century, but today it houses an elegant hotel. From time to time, concerts, dance shows and various performances are also organized here. The site was also used as the set for many films and documentaries. The castle boasts a rich history, so besides royal accommodation, you can book a guided tour of the site and find out more about this historic landmark. Foodies will enjoy the restaurant specializing in Polish cuisine, and the castle's wine cellar.
Slide 4 of 8: Ever wondered how it feels to spend the night in a 700-year-old castle tower? Well if you have, satisfy your curiosity at Castelo de Obidos. The luxury hotel is housed within a 12th century medieval castle, in the fortified town of Obidos in western Portugal. The castle is known as one of the seven wonders of Portugal, and the hotel has only 14 rooms, so privacy and a more personal experience is guaranteed. Also, there are three rooms located in the castle's tower, providing a whole different experience. All the rooms are named after Portuguese kings and queens who've stayed in the town. If you love peculiar hotels in historic buildings, this is the ideal place to stay!
Slide 5 of 8: Set on 840 acres of estate in Limerick, this Irish castle hotel is stunning and luxurious in every way. The 19the century Victorian mansion got its latest renovation two years ago, making it even more impressive than it was before. The hotel features an 18-hole championship golf course, which hosted the Irish Gold Championship in 2007 and 2008. An architectural masterpiece, consisting of stunning towers, turrets and surrounded by beautiful gardens, it's perfect for the ultimate vacation. Feel like an elegant queen or king waking up in one of these lavish, antique-adorned rooms! Also, the adventurous can rent a bike or a motorcycle and explore Ireland's countryside.

Slide 6 of 8: Located on the island of Shapinsay, one of the Orkney Islands, Balfour Castle feels like an enchanted land. This nine-bedroom baronial castle is situated on a 1,000 acre estate is surrounded by fresh air, ocean and green hills speckled with cows. Dating back to 1840s, the rooms are still equipped with their original, antique furniture and silk wallpapers. Victorian brass beds, stunning room views overlooking the sea, and large open fires in the living room areas are just the thing for a magical medieval retreat. Also, the hotel offers various activities like shooting, fishing and birdwatching. Tuck into delicious farm-to-table food made by the 2009 Scottish Chef of the Year, Jean-Baptiste Bady. The Orkney Islands are also home to several premium Scotch brands, so enjoy some fine whisky during your stay!
Slide 7 of 8: This grand medieval castle is situated in the Prosecco wine region of Altamarca. Located on a hill overlooking the towns of Cison di Valmarino and Valmareno, you'll have to take a funicular railway to reach this unique hotel. The rooms are fitted with a mix of antique furniture and modern features, perfect for providing a closer look at how royals used to live. Each room has a fantastic view of either the hills or the valley. While you wander along the hotel's hallways, you'll be transported back in time, with medieval decor, suits of armor and swords all around.  The castle's gardens are perfect for nature activities, like horse riding or just walking. Inside the property there is also a museum, spa center, a pizzeria, several gorgeous bars offering panoramic views, and a souvenir shop. The building was first created as a defensive fortress in the early Roman period, to protect communication lines between northern Italy and countries on the other side of the Alps. Its previous purpose was as a monastery, until it was renovated and turned into a hotel and a museum in 1997.

Slide 8 of 8: Just two kilometers outside of Siena, situated amid the majestic scenery of Tuscany stands this 14th century castle. The small bed and breakfast offers only a few rooms, giving its guests a fully personalized experience. This jewel in the unspoiled, gorgeous Tuscan countryside, is great choice for both family and romantic vacations. The place is well-preserved, with beautiful antique furniture and original stone walls giving it an additional lovely charm. The family-run atmosphere will make you feel like you're at home, comfortable and stress-free. For some tasty local dishes visit the nearby farmhouse restaurant, owned by the same family.

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