In the lead-up to the midterms, the Trump Administration has been preparing a 90-day US diesel export ban. The war against Iran launched by the Trump administration in February and Ukrainian attacks against Russian refineries have been driving diesel prices to record highs over the course of 2026. The move is an attempt to bring down the soaring energy prices and the damaging impact they might have on the election results for the Republicans. 

“I’ve said let’s not send out the diesel. We make a lot of diesel. I’ve called for it within my people. I’ve been talking about it,” Trump stated during the U.N. General Assembly in New York. 

If the measure goes through, it would be the first time for diesel exports to be restricted since 2015, when the Obama administration put an end to a decades-old ban. However, the ban is not yet in place and allegedly, some administration officials are still trying to turn things around. 

Industry stakeholders, too, have massively spoken out against the measure. According to them, the ban might initially lead to lower prices. Stocks intended for export will be pumped into the American market, thus increasing the offer and lowering the price. However, the ban is eventually likely to cause a price increase, as oil refinery will supposedly slow down as soon as the international demand disappears.

“We urge you to reject calls to ban or otherwise limit the exports of diesel and other products that have made the U.S. energy industry so strong. With 10 percent of global refining capacity offline, U.S. refiners are running at full capacity to supply the U.S. and to help stabilise global fuel markets. The U.S. produces more diesel than it consumes, allowing us to meet domestic demand and to supply our allies in Latin America and Europe. U.S. crude oil exports have likewise helped keep refineries running in other parts of the world as disruptions occurred through the Strait of Hormuz,” some of the biggest business groups in the US wrote in a letter addressed to President Donald Trump on 23 September 2026.

The U.S. supplies about 20% of diesel traded globally by sea. An export ban would remove that supply from that market, exacerbating the global refining crisis responsible for high fuel prices. pic.twitter.com/amNi3Odrwb

— American Petroleum Institute (@APIenergy) September 23, 2026

The open letter was signed by organisation such as the Chamber of Commerce, Business Roundtable, and National Association of Manufacturers. 

On 24 September 2026, Airlines for America, which represents carriers such as American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines, joined the opposition against the ban. The CEO of the airline group, Chris Sununu, stated to have spoken with the US Departments of Energy and Interior in order to address his concerns.

“The chain reaction of issues that it causes – the prices don’t go down,” Sununu told Reuters. 

At the moment of writing, it is yet unclear whether or not the Trump administration will effectively put a ban in place. 

L’article US airlines speak out against US diesel export ban est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

Named Prada Galleria, the revamped complex opened to the public on 23 September and brings together the brand’s women’s and men’s boutiques, exhibitions, private shopping areas, a pastry shop and spaces dedicated to contemporary art. The project was developed under the direction of Miuccia Prada, whose grandfather Mario Prada co-founded the company with his brother Martino in 1913.

“It is a way to show our DNA, our roots, our way of thinking and point of view,” Chief Executive Andrea Guerra ‌told Reuters

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At the heart of the redevelopment are Prada Donna and Prada Uomo, which were previously separate stores. Prada Donna, located on the site of the original Fratelli Prada shop, has nearly doubled its display space and now features women’s collections alongside expanded travel, home and beauty areas. The two boutiques are connected below the Galleria by a new underground tunnel known as the Passaggio Segreto, or “Secret Passage”.

The passage also serves as an exhibition space exploring episodes and eras of Prada’s history. According to Reuters, displays include silver-plated Prada handbags reworked by British artist Damien Hirst and a “Chandelier” dress worn by Carey Mulligan in the film The Great Gatsby.

Above Prada Uomo is Marchesi 1824, the historic Milanese pastry shop in which Prada acquired an 80% stake in 2014. Visitors can stop for pastries, chocolates, biscotti and espresso while overlooking the Galleria’s walkways and mosaics.

Another major addition is Pradasphere, Prada’s first permanent exhibition dedicated to the fashion house’s history. Building on temporary Pradasphere exhibitions previously staged in London, Hong Kong and Shanghai, the space presents archival objects and material tracing Prada’s development since 1913, including its connections with art, architecture, cinema, sport and culture. Visitors are required to register in advance to access the exhibition.

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The complex also includes Studio, a series of rooms designed for personalised shopping appointments and private events, as well as the invitation-only Appartamento. Designed to evoke an 18^th-century residence, the latter combines antique Italian furniture with contemporary photography and currently features works selected by German photographer Andreas Gursky.

On the upper levels, Osservatorio Fondazione Prada provides a space for experimentation focused on the connection between technology, contemporary culture and artistic expression.

The expansion comes as luxury brands increasingly invest in experiences designed to strengthen relationships with high-spending customers while attracting new shoppers. Guerra told Reuters that the company expects the revamped Milan flagship to generate around €100 million in annual revenue. Prada reported €5.7 billion in sales last year, while the cost of the Galleria redevelopment has not been disclosed. 

L’article Prada opens new eight-floor fashion, art and shopping destination in Milan est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

The cathedral city of Hereford was once an important military centre. That was a few centuries ago but, today, Herefordshire is a real leader in other ways, from innovation and championing local products to the sheer friendliness of its people.

Here are 10 reasons to put Herefordshire on your travel list.

1. Start the day in style

As you’re in England, what better way to start the day than by sampling some of the county’s best produce, including a full English breakfast, perhaps?

There are a couple of spots well worth trying, including the lovely Castle House Hotel in Hereford, whose wholesome breakfast offering is open to both guests and non-guests. It also has an interesting Benelux connection, having once been owned by Albert Heijn, the largest supermarket chain in the Netherlands.

Away from the county’s main city, you’ll find the terrific, multi-award-winning Lowe Farm B&B, set in the rolling Herefordshire countryside and celebrating its 30th anniversary next year.

The place is lovingly overseen by Juliet Williams, a larger-than-life character who serves up delicious and healthy breakfasts sourced almost entirely from local products and producers.

Juliet, who is nearing 70 but remains full of energy and enthusiasm for what she does, has welcomed a staggering 27,000 guests since opening, including the Spanish ambassador to the UK and coachloads of Japanese tourists. Some 60% are repeat visitors, a clear sign of the quality of service she provides.

Juliet and her husband Clive also boast a minor Belgian connection: the best man at their wedding was from Belgium. She takes great pride in sourcing her products locally and cooking with healthy ingredients, some sourced from the same local butcher used by famous TV chef James Martin.

2. Discover Hereford’s history

2026 marks the 1,350th anniversary of the Hereford diocese and the city oozes history.

One must-visit attraction is Hereford Cathedral, dating back to Saxon times, and its Mappa Mundi, one of the world’s unique medieval treasures. Constructed on a single sheet of vellum more than 700 years ago, the map shows how the world was interpreted by scholars at the time.

Look closely and you’ll spot Ghent on the map in the Europe section, curiously located in the bottom left of the world.

Close by is the equally wonderful Chained Library, home to some 229 medieval manuscripts and more than 1,200 early printed books. It is the largest library of its kind to survive with all its chains, rods and locks intact.

The magnificent cathedral is also home to impressive architecture, a mighty Willis organ, stained glass, including a tribute to the UK’s SAS, which is based locally, and numerous works of art. It is all brought to life by a 400-strong team of volunteers who are passionate about what they do.

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A short walk away is Hereford’s historic Town Hall, home to the current Lady Mayor, something of a rarity as there have only been seven women mayors in the city’s entire history.

Tours are available, offering an insight into Hereford’s rich history and a reminder that its castle was once second only in size to Windsor.

The city boasts another proud record: along with the City of London, it has never been defeated in battle.

There is also another historical connection to Belgium. In the council chamber, where the mayor presides over meetings, a framed and unusual Union Jack hangs above one of the doors, featuring a central shield with a French inscription.

The inscription reads: “Expression of our gratitude to our benefactors Mr & Mrs GB Greenland and members of the Committee – Belgian refugees in Hereford, Nov 9th 1915.”

Following the German invasion of Belgium in August 1914, roughly 250,000 Belgian refugees fled to Britain. Hereford City Council holds the distinction of being the first British city to officially step forward and offer hospitality and sanctuary to displaced Belgian families.

On 9 November 1915, Belgian refugees living in Hereford presented a silk flag to Mayor G.B. Greenland as a permanent token of friendship and “immense gratitude” for the local community’s safe housing and kindness.

Tours of the Town Hall are overseen by the entertaining Scotsman John Marshall, the Mayor’s Officer. He is responsible for looking after some serious silverware, including the 349-year-old Civic Sword, mayoral robes, including one used in Queen Victoria’s coronation, and the mayoral golden chain, which dates from the 1800s.

There’s precious little that the very likeable John doesn’t know about Hereford and its rich history. Like so many others in the county, he genuinely loves his job, so much so that he is happy to extend his planned retirement to continue doing it.

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3. Meet the local artisans

Whisky production in a traditional cider county? Well, yes, and very good it is too.

At least that is the case at Rosemaund Farm Distillery, which has recently been brought back under family ownership. Described as the “largest little distillery in Herefordshire”, the site, formerly home to Chase Distillery, is a real hive of activity and has just marked its latest release, “The Director’s Cut”.

The sprawling site even boasts a touch of Hollywood glitz, as world-famous film director Guy Ritchie is involved with his Wild Kitchen/Wild Table concept, an outdoor cooking and dining experience where a full meal can be enjoyed after a tour of the impressive whisky-making operation.

Criss-crossing some of the county’s marvellous, meandering country roads leads to another laudable local artisan: Monkland Cheese Dairy.

It was run for more than three decades by Mark and Karen Hindle, who now operate the adjacent café, while former chef Dean Storey owns the dairy, makes the cheeses and runs tours.

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While the French may be world-renowned for their cheeses, here’s proof, if it were needed, that the Brits can do the job just as well.

Public tours offer the chance to see up close how its delicious cheeses are made, partly using an impressive Dutch Gouda vat capable of holding 1,000 litres of cow’s milk.

4. Enjoy a spot of lunch

Back in Hereford, the county’s entrepreneurial spirit is certainly alive and kicking at The Yard, a collective of small-scale eateries.

Overseeing things are two go-ahead brothers, Edwin and Dorian Kirk, who offer vital mentoring to would-be local start-ups.

Ed says: “We help people who are just starting out to build up their own business and become owners themselves. In a way, it is all about achieving their dreams, just as me and Dorian have managed to do.”

After trekking around all morning, it’s a great place for a filling, tasty but affordable light lunch, be it pizza, a burger or steak, accompanied by one of the local ales.

As with so many places here, it is all about cutting food miles and “buying local”, with much of the food sourced directly from local producers.

If you happen to visit in late October, the space transforms for Oktoberfest, complete with Bavarian beers and music.

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5. Try your hand at pottery

One of the reasons this county is described as a hidden gem is its welcoming locals, including Jon Williams and Sarah Monk, who run Eastnor Pottery.

Having met at art school in Bath, the couple moved to “idyllic” Herefordshire, where they live and work on the Eastnor Castle estate, offering enjoyable potter’s wheel experiences alongside making their own ceramics.

It’s an opportunity to get hands-on with one of the county’s creative traditions and experience another side of rural Herefordshire.

6. Explore Eastnor Castle

After having fun on the potter’s wheel, make time to admire Eastnor Castle, home of the Hervey-Bathurst family, with lavish interiors containing medieval armour, fine art and yet another reminder of Belgium.

This comes in the shape of impressive Belgian tapestries, including three from Bruges in the Staircase Hall and more in the Gothic Dining Room.

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James Hervey-Bathurst, the current owner, moved here with his family in 1989, but his family have been there since 1949 and have ancestral links to the original owners going back centuries.

He recalls: “We were presented with a wonderful but daunting challenge.”

That’s a reference to the rundown state of the property, which has since been restored to its former glory.

Before leaving, take a look in the grounds at something you might not expect to see in rural England: a segment of the Berlin Wall.

James bought the three-metre-high, 2.6-tonne section last year and had it shipped to the UK. He hopes its presence, close to the deer park, reminds visitors of how conflict can divide people and communities, a message as relevant today as ever.

7. Discover more of the countryside

You need to allow time to fully experience everything this county has to offer.

Time and energy permitting, there’s plenty more to keep visitors busy, including Black Mountain Adventure near Brecon, Canwood Gallery, a contemporary art space, and the many farm shops dotted across the landscape.

These include Oakchurch, just the place to stock up on some lovely local produce before heading home.

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8. Taste the local food scene

You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to sampling the county’s wonderful local produce, whether in the north, south, east or west.

In the south, at Woolhope, for instance, is The Crown, a terrific pub and restaurant run by another friendly Herefordian, Annalisa Slocombe.

The recently refurbished eatery serves a mix of pub classics, including good old fish and chips, along with local beers.

Located in a tiny village of around 200 residents, the menu is constantly evolving. But, as Annalisa explains, favourites such as steak remain “to avoid a customer revolt”. From the end of this month, she hopes to have eight en-suite rooms available too.

Cricket lovers will feel at home here, with plenty of memorabilia on the walls, including a bat used at the England v New Zealand Test in 1999 and a collection of Wisden books dating back to 1988.

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Another great place, this time back in Hereford, is The Beefy Boys. Hereford was the first location in what has become a fast-growing chain, with its latest restaurant scheduled to open in Cambridge later this month.

The county is renowned worldwide for the quality of its beef and that, along with great service, is one reason why the burgers here stand out. The meat is sourced from a single local farm.

The Beefy Boys story started in Hereford and the venue has expanded in recent years to accommodate up to 250 people.

Assistant General Manager Kai says: “Even midweek it’s bustling here and we’re still growing.”

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Not too far away, to the east, is L’Ecole des Amis, which serves refined French cuisine in a beautifully restored old schoolhouse.

At the helm are Cedric L’Herbier, who hails from Le Touquet in France, and Bruce Havard.

Cedric, who has more than 40 years’ experience in the restaurant trade in both the UK and France, recalls how the rundown building was badly in need of “some TLC” when they acquired it.

A rapid restoration, completed in just 12 months, has resulted in a lovely, informal place to enjoy top-class cuisine that Cedric describes as “unsophisticated and unpretentious”.

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They change a couple of dishes every few weeks and there is also a brasserie-style lunch menu.

On opening night, an estimated 80% of customers travelled from where Cedric previously worked in another part of the county, about 18 miles away, and he and Bruce continue to command a loyal customer base.

It is largely down to the fresh food, cooked with real care, which makes one Frenchman glad that he took the plunge for “one last adventure” in his working life.

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9. Stay in the Herefordshire countryside

If you enjoy peace and quiet, with a few animals for company, Pudleston Court could be the place for you.

Nestled in 50 acres of beautiful private parkland, it’s hard to imagine you are just a few kilometres from the busy town of Leominster.

It is home to seven holiday lets, five of which are original estate buildings, formerly used for everything from housing geese to a rifle range, and all have been carefully refurbished.

One, the delightful Meadow View, is a barn conversion sleeping up to six people with its own private pool. It boasts underfloor heating, three bedrooms, a log-burning stove and a delightful terrace.

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Don’t be surprised if, on arrival, you are greeted by some curious “locals”: peacocks roam freely around the estate, while charming young alpacas can be found in a nearby field.

There is also another connection to the Heijn family, who formerly owned the property. The current owner is a Swiss woman who fell in love with it after reading an article about it in Country Life magazine.

She had always dreamed of owning her own English castle and this was her chance to do just that.

She has overseen a careful restoration that is still ongoing, with future plans including expansion into the corporate market through company stays, board meetings and training days.

Approached via those unique meandering roads, where the only hold-up is likely to be cattle crossing, this is a genuine oasis of peace and tranquillity in an increasingly hectic world.

And there’s yet another Belgian connection: Rhi Baines, the Chief Operating Officer, has fond memories of Belgium after celebrating her 21^st birthday in Brussels.

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10. Enjoy a road trip from mainland Europe

It could hardly be easier for people travelling by car from mainland Europe, including Belgium. Once off the ferry or shuttle, motorways cover much of the journey to Herefordshire.

After navigating the M25 around London, travellers can continue via the M40 and Gloucester or the M40 and Worcester.

There are no motorways in Herefordshire itself, however, so allow a little extra time for getting around.

It all adds up to a great getaway, whatever the time of year. Pay a visit and it’s easy to see why this pretty part of England is described as a “hidden gem”.

One excellent way of finding out more about this creative county is through Eat Sleep Live Herefordshire, a leading independent destination marketing company.

It supports Herefordshire’s food and drink businesses, accommodation providers, activities, leisure venues and events, while also promoting the county’s craftspeople, creatives and artisans.

L’article 10 reasons to discover Herefordshire, England’s ‘hidden gem’ est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia is a particular sight for nature lovers and adventurers alike. The world’s largest salt flat, located in the Daniel Campos Province near the Andes Mountains at an altitude of 3,656 metres, spans over 10,582 square kilometres. 

The region is unique due to its size, its particular climate, and an 8-metre thick salt layer, resulting in a particular fauna and flora. While the site is popular year-round, the wet season – which lasts from December of April and transforms the entire flat in a mirror-like scenery – is a particularly good time to visit the Salar de Uyuni. 

The accommodation offer near the salt flat is already unconventional, as most of the hotels are made of salt due to the lack of more traditional building materials. Yet as of July 2027, another unique form of accommodation is set to start welcoming Salar dee Uyuni tourists: Samkani Camp.

The new glamping experience is a project from A&K Sanctuary, the company behind a collection of luxury lodges, camps, and riverboats. It will feature six Airstream campers in total: five suites and one dining venue. The well-known campers’ exterior is reminiscent of the salt flat’s mirror-like look during the wet season, while the interiors are architect-designed and feature blue Bolivian marble, wood, and stainless steel accents.

“Wildly remote and otherworldly, Bolivia’s Uyuni salt flats encompass thousands of square kilometers of silence. Evolving throughout the year from a sea of salt hexagons to a magnificent mirror that reflects the clearest skies — a galaxy for stargazing. And on the horizon is a whole new way to experience them: bespoke Airstream suites that are one of the only places to stay on the salar – high-design cocoons edged in blue marble and chrome that offer the luxury of total solitude to take in the wonder of it all undisturbed. The most elevated way to experience Bolivia’s extraordinary salt flats is coming soon…,” A&K writes.

Samkani, which means ‘the one who dreams’ in Bolivia’s indigenous Altiplano Aymara-language, will specifically cater to those who wish to discover the region in an undisturbed way, while offering all the comforts of a more traditional hotel room. 

Aside from the suites and restaurants, the boutique glamping experience will also offer more than 30 experiences. Guests will by accompanied by a private guide and driver, who will share their knowledge of the unique salt plane, allowing visitors to connect with the local landscape and culture.

At the moment of writing, bookings aren’t open just yet. Samkani Camp will be available for booking as an A&K Tailormade journey or as part of small group journeys. Those who wish to be informed of the opening as soon as possible can register on A&K’s website.

L’article World’s largest salt flat in Bolivia to welcome Airstream boutique camp est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

If so, Emirates has come up with something that is likely to go down a real treat. Its latest selection of exceptional champagnes and fine wines spans some of the most celebrated vineyards in France, Australia, Chile, South Africa and the UK.

They range from Dom Pérignon Vintage 2017 and Château Mouton Rothschild 2003 for those lucky enough to travel in First Class, to Emirates’ first English sparkling wine, Wiston Estate Brut NV, for Premium Economy passengers.

The new collection will be introduced in the coming months across the Dubai-based airline’s global network and will be available to travellers in every cabin class.

A first for Emirates

Wiston Estate Brut NV will be available from October, becoming Emirates’ first English sparkling wine and served exclusively in Premium Economy on UK routes.

Wiston Estate is a historic family-owned property in West Sussex, with vineyards on the chalk soils of the South Downs.Produced from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier using the traditional method, its Brut NV incorporates reserve wines and extended lees ageing for depth and complexity while retaining freshness and distinctive minerality.

The wine has earned significant international recognition, with Wiston Estate named WineGB Winery of the Year six times.

Opening with green apple, freshly cut lemon and sourdough, the wine develops with a fine mousse and notes of candied citrus, butter and toast.

An Emirates spokesman told Travel Tomorrow: “The introduction of Wiston Estate exclusively on UK routes celebrates British provenance and craftsmanship while giving Emirates customers the opportunity to discover one of England’s benchmark sparkling wines.”

Five million bottles

Emirates says it applies “stringent” criteria to select wines that “perform” both on the ground and at altitude, considering fruit character, acidity, tannin levels, oak influence and, crucially, maturity.

Many are acquired years before they are ready to serve and aged in professional facilities in France. Bordeaux wines destined for Business Class typically undergo a minimum of eight to 10 years of ageing, while those selected for First Class can mature for at least 12 to 15 years.

This long-term approach enables Emirates to secure limited parcels of sought-after vintages and serve customers wines at their peak.

Since 2006, the airline has invested more than $1 billion in its wine programme, building a cellar that today holds around five million bottles in dedicated facilities in France.

The spokesman said: “Many wines are acquired years in advance and carefully matured until they reach their optimum drinking window, before being introduced onboard for guests to enjoy at their peak.

“As many wines are sourced in small parcels and limited allocations, Emirates customers are uniquely positioned to experience rare and sought-after vintages that are not widely available elsewhere.”

New wines across the cabins

Other wines include Domaine de la Baume Tautavel 2023, a Grenache-Syrah from Roussillon in southern France. It offersripe blackberry, blackcurrant and red plum complemented by liquorice, pepper and Mediterranean herbs, with smooth tannins and a fruit-driven finish.

From October, Emirates will also introduce Château Pech-Latt Corbières 2024, made from traditional Corbières varieties including Syrah, Grenache, Carignan and Mourvèdre. It offers ripe blackberry, blackcurrant and red fruits complemented by spice and Mediterranean herbs, with a round, supple palate.

For white wine fans, Cuvée Sabourin Picpoul de Pinet 2024 brings the freshness of France’s Mediterranean coast onboard, with bright lemon, green apple and white flowers alongside subtle mineral and saline notes.

Crisp acidity and a clean, citrus-driven finish make it particularly well suited to seafood and lighter dishes.

Completing the new Economy selection is Journey’s End Weather Station Sauvignon Blanc 2025, produced by the family-owned Journey’s End estate near Stellenbosch, South Africa.

The vintage displays green apple, citrus, grapefruit and kiwifruit complemented by subtle saline minerality, with lively acidity and a clean, refreshing finish.

L’article Emirates to serve its first English sparkling wine on UK routes est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

The autumn season brings a wealth of sporting events to Europe—42% of the marathon calendar in fact— including the Berlin marathon in September, as well as those in Amsterdam, Budapest, Lisbon, and Munich in October, and more. That’s alongside fitness races across cities as varied as Birmingham, Bordeaux, Karlsruhe, Oslo, and Valencia, among others, promoted by HYROX, a running community that has gained tens of thousands of members since its 2017 launch.

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The rising popularity of running can be traced online on platforms like TikTok, where posts giving travel advice linked to international Hyrox races, go viral. The movement is also evident in Strava data that shows new running clubs nearly quadrupled in 2025, pushing the platform past one million total active groups, with worldwide participation jumping 59% year-on-year.

Runners are increasingly taking that passion on leisure trips with them, according to Google searches for “marathon abroad” which have seen a 1,255% increase in the past year. One Bókun analysis of 30-day Google Trends data linking spikes in queries about short city breaks to destinations where marathons and fitness events are taking place.

Examples shared included Hamburg, which is hosting a HYROX event at the end of October. The “What to do for a day in Hamburg” search term had a 500% surge in Google searches, while Lisbon was up 400%, and Munich too by 250%. Berlin also enjoyed a 119% increase in similar interest, as did Budapest (+84%), and Amsterdam (+70%).

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The apparent rise of running as a leisure activity and the desire to combine it with a travel experience, tie in with wider trend data showing travel consumers are increasingly seeking to immerse themselves in the culture and events scenes of the places they visit, whether that means finding sport, music, gastronomy, or other leisure interests that they can take part in while they are away.

Meanwhile, those seeking a bargain break who do not mind missing marathon dates or big events, could find room rates are cheaper and less pressure on tickets if they can avoid key moments in the calendar.

For industry stakeholders, there is a new segment to address with products and experiences that appeal to them, and for destinations, events present a way to tempt visitors to consider a trip beyond the usual seasonal limits. As Samuel Jefferies at Bókun said: “The rise of racecations presents an exciting opportunity to attract new customers and drive bookings beyond the traditional summer peak.”

L’article Autumn running events drive travel as searches rise est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

Travellers planning on travelling to Valencia in Spain in the future will be able to benefit from a unique high-speed rail station. The new Valencia Central Station will run underground and will be connected to the historic Estación del Norte, meaning trains will be able to travel through Valencia from north to south, overcoming the current terminus arrangement and making train travel within the city more fluent.

To make the station become a reality, the Adif-Alta Velocidad Evaluation Committee has selected a team consisting of three separate companies. Technology group Sener will be collaborating with the UK-based practice RSHP and the Valencia-based architecture studio ERRE.

“The new station will enable further progress in the city’s railway transformation, improving connectivity and efficiency through the integration of different transport modes within an infrastructure designed to respond to both current and future mobility needs,” said Jesús Planchuelo, Railway Director at Sener.

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In order to blend the new station with its existing surroundings, high-speed and commuter trains as well as metro services will be located underground. However, a series of sweeping roofs that pay homage to the historic Estación del Norte will provide an airy and light-flooded environment, thus preventing the station from feeling too crowded or cave-like. Travellers will be met with natural light, fresh air, and views while journeying underground. 

“The conceptualisation of the project arises from respect for the architectural beauty of Estación del Norte, declared an Asset of Cultural Interest. Our strategy is to intervene in the urban space without altering any of its façades, preserving its integrity while enhancing its heritage value,” shared Jose Martí, Amparo Roig, and M. Ángeles Ros, Architect Partners at ERRE, in a statement. 

The space gained aboveground by burying the station will be reserved for walking, cycling, greenery, and public life in general. The green axis will also act as a way to connect the station to the existing Estación del Norte, which is scheduled to undergo a refurbishment, and Valencia’s future Central Park.

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“Given the complexity of integrating multiple railway transport modes within a single space in a clear and people-centred way, we have designed a 21^st-century station for Valencia that will be truly unique. It will be bold, yet also sensitive and welcoming. It will offer an inspiring and generous experience, both for the city and its citizens, whether they are daily commuters or visitors arriving for the first time at the heart of this great city,” stated Ivan Harbour, Senior Design Director at RSHP.

At the moment of writing, a timeline has not been shared yet regarding the building works. However, RSHP will be using a lightweight modular canopy in order to make the process more sustainable and less time-consuming.

L’article Valencia plans new high-speed rail station topped by major urban park est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

The model covers all five of New York’s boroughs, as well as parts of New Jersey and Long Island. Visitors can look for the Statue of Liberty, Yankee Stadium and the Brooklyn Bridge among its streets. It measures about 15 metres long and just over eight metres wide, with more than 340 sections fitted together to form the city. The museum provides binoculars so visitors can examine buildings that are difficult to see from the edge of the display.

@balsastyrofoam300

Miniature model of New York City, carved out of balsa wood,21 years to build, almost 1 million buildings, 50ft, long,30ft. wide.

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Anyone searching for a precise picture of present-day New York may notice something unusual. In Queens, Macken included a diner he remembered from childhood, although a newer building now stands on the site. He also kept the old Kosciuszko Bridge, which was replaced in 2017. In Lower Manhattan, the Twin Towers stand beside One World Trade Center, built after the attacks of 11 September 2001. “I kept a lot of my own parts of the city,” said Macken. The model shows places as he remembers them alongside places visitors would recognise today.

The idea began when Macken was a child. On a school trip to the Queens Museum, he saw its Panorama of the City of New York, another large model of the city. He did not begin his own version until he was in his 40s, after moving with his family from Long Island to the Albany area of New York state. Macken told the Associated Press that he thought he might have missed the city. He started with the tower at 30 Rockefeller Plaza, a landmark in Midtown Manhattan.

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Making Midtown alone took around ten years. The Empire State Building was especially difficult because Macken wanted to get the detail of its tower right. He had no formal training in architecture, design or model making, and used materials such as balsa wood and cardboard. The project followed him beyond his worktable: he took supplies on family holidays and built during breaks from his weekend bus-driving job. As he gained experience, he found he could make buildings far more quickly than when he started.

For years, the model remained a project at home. When Macken finished it, his daughter persuaded him to share videos of it on TikTok. According to the Associated Press, those videos attracted more than 10 million views in one week, and the museum contacted him after seeing them. The exhibition opened in February 2026, bringing his handmade New York before visitors in New York for the first time. Macken has said that he enjoyed building it so much that he had never spent much time thinking about finishing it.

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Jersey City New Jersey

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At the museum, visitors have been looking for more than famous sights. Some search for streets and neighbourhoods they once knew, using the model to follow their own memories across the city. One visitor, Jonathan Skolnik, pointed out places connected to his family, including his father’s first address in America and the neighbourhood in Queens where Skolnik was born. Macken is already thinking about additions of his own. He hopes to add more than 50 buildings and extend the model further into New Jersey and Long Island.

L’article Truck driver recreates New York with extraordinary 800,000-building model est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

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The suite is designed to make getting ready for a concert part of the trip. It has a dressing area, illuminated mirrors, artwork inspired by Dion’s shows and a wall of microphones where guests can sing. Metallic finishes and lighting add to the backstage feel. Fans can spend time preparing for their night out together, then return to a room that carries on the concert atmosphere. Marriott says the suite can be booked for stays between 12 September 2026 and 31 May 2027. The room may therefore appeal to visitors travelling for later Paris dates as well as those attending this autumn’s shows.

Visitors can also take part in “The Paris Playlist” without staying at the hotel. Its activities include a space where music is paired with fragrances, a creative workshop and places to take photographs. Paris Select Book reports that the two-hour experience costs €49 with a hot drink or fruit juice, or €59 with a glass of champagne. The programme gives local fans and visitors another way to take part without paying for the themed suite. Marriott describes its related “Le Goûter” experience as a mix of French food, creative activities and interactive photographs. Places are limited and available on selected dates, so visitors need to register in advance and check what is offered on their chosen day.

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The hotel’s “Paris Encore: A Fan Singalong” takes the programme into the streets. This two-hour guided walk links places associated with a visit to Paris through stories about Dion and opportunities for fans to sing together. According to Paris Select Book, the route starts at the hotel and passes the Arc de Triomphe, the Seine and the Eiffel Tower. It also includes a champagne stop at the Paris Marriott Champs Elysees Hotel. The walk is free to book for Marriott Bonvoy members, and joining the hotel group’s loyalty programme is free. Marriott says places are limited, advance registration is required and concert tickets are not included.

Dion’s 16 Paris concert dates prompted a rise in searches and bookings after they were announced in March. At the time, apartment hotel brand Adagio reported a 400% increase in bookings, while Booking.com recorded a 49% rise in searches for Paris. Those figures describe interest reported after the announcement; they do not show how much visitors will eventually spend. Estimates of the tour’s wider economic effect also vary considerably. They help explain why hotels are creating experiences for concert visitors, but remain forecasts rather than confirmed tourism revenue.

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Trips built around live music are sometimes called “gig trips”. For some fans, the concert is the reason to travel, while the hotel, meals and time spent exploring the city become part of the occasion. Le Méridien’s suite, hotel activities and guided walk are all designed for different parts of that visit. Marriott Bonvoy is also offering members access to concert packages through its Moments programme, where they can use loyalty points for selected experiences. The hotel’s activities run on selected dates this autumn, while the suite’s published stay dates extend into 2027. Fans interested in either should check availability and what is included before booking, particularly if they still need a concert ticket.

L’article Paris hotel unveils Céline Dion suite and singalong walking tour est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

According to provisional data from the Bank of Greece, inbound traveller flows increased by 8.6% year-on-year to 20.43 million between January and July, up from 18.45 million during the same period in 2025. Travel receipts rose even faster, increasing by 12% compared with last year.

Revenue growth was supported by both European and non-European markets. Receipts from EU-27 residents increased by 6.9% to €7.09 billion, while those from visitors outside the bloc climbed by 18.3% to €5.78 billion. Receipts from eurozone countries rose by 11.3% to €5.88 billion.

Among Greece’s major source markets, revenue from Italy jumped by 31.6% to €828.1 million, while receipts from the United Kingdom increased by 23.3% to €2.09 billion and those from the United States rose by 7.9% to €1.06 billion. By contrast, revenue from Germany edged down by 0.7% to €1.98 billion, while receipts from France fell by 16.8% to €623.7 million.

Visitor numbers also grew across several key markets during the seven-month period. Arrivals from Germany increased by 7.7% to 3.03 million, while those from Italy rose by 17.2% to 1.20 million. UK arrivals climbed by 10.5% to 2.27 million, while US arrivals increased by 6.1% to 910,500.

Despite the strong overall performance, July showed a more mixed picture. Inbound traveller flows fell by 3.1% year-on-year to 6.55 million, even as travel receipts increased by 7.2% to €4.72 billion. The Bank of Greece attributed the higher revenue to a 10% increase in average expenditure per trip.

Separate data from the Hellenic Statistical Authority (ELSTAT) showed that Greece’s hotels, campsites and short-stay accommodation recorded 6.61 million arrivals and 31.70 million overnight stays in July. Foreign visitors accounted for 80.3% of arrivals and 87.6% of overnight stays, highlighting the sector’s continued reliance on international demand.

The latest figures extend the strong momentum recorded earlier in 2026. In the first half of the year, Greece welcomed 13.49 million inbound travellers and generated €8.80 billion in travel receipts, increases of 15.4% and 14.8% respectively.

Demand is also expected to remain strong beyond the peak summer season. A recent Greek National Tourism Organization survey found that 29% of European travellers intend to visit Greece by May 2027, while around 35% of respondents planning a Greek trip were looking at the September-to-November period of 2026.

L’article Greek tourism hits seven-month record as 20.4 million visitors generate €13.5 billion est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.