Travel Review: The wonder of space shows there's more to Florida than Disney
It's no secret that the Sunshine State is renowned for kids' activities galore, but after a few days living out dreams of chats with astronauts, all-American mansions and rocket launches, a completely new Floridian world opened up for me.
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Time Out Dubai
44 minutes ago
- Time Out Dubai
Maroon 5 to headline Atlantis, The Palm's New Year's Eve Gala Dinner in Dubai
One of the world's biggest bands is set to headline a special New Year's Eve show at one of Dubai's most iconic venues. American legends Maroon 5 will perform at Atlantis, The Palm as part of the venue's New Year's Eve Gala Dinner. Expect an incredible back catalogue of chart-topping hits such as Moves Like Jagger, She Will Be Loved and This Love to accompany fireworks to bring in 2026. The New Year's Eve Gala Dinner will be a black-tie affair following a Winter Wonderland theme. Premium seating tickets for the intimate concert and dinner start from Dhs6,500 for people aged over 14, Dhs4,500 for ages 4 to 13 and free for kids under 3. Further packages are available. Atlantis, The Palm rings in the new year with a spectacular show (Credit: Supplied) Maroon 5 are one of the biggest and most enduring bands in the modern pop scene, with Billboard naming them the top band of the 21st century (and number 11 overall). To date, the universally renowned Los Angeles group have sold 100+ million albums and 750 million+ singles, and charted 32 records on the Billboard Hot 100. A combination of airtight songwriting, straightforward lyricism, clever wit, and adventurous creativity has earmarked their hypnotic hybrid of rock and pop from day one. Festivities will begin at 6pm on New Year's Eve with a selection canapés, welcome drinks, and roaming entertainment. Guests will be welcomed into a beautiful outdoor space featuring a 30-piece live band along with free-flowing bubbly and unlimited premium beverages. A buffet, featuring everything from lobster and caviar to sushi, will be complemented by live cooking stations and an array of handcrafted desserts. Younger guests can head to the Asateer Tent, which will be transformed into a dedicated kids' party zone featuring a giant slide, bouncy castle, outdoor cinema, ame stalls, arts and crafts and festive activities. Paul Baker, President of Atlantis, Kerzner International, said, 'We are thrilled to welcome Maroon 5 to headline this year's New Year's Eve Gala Dinner at Atlantis, The Palm. 'As one of the most recognisable names in global music, their presence continues our tradition of bringing world-class entertainment to Dubai's most iconic celebration. 'Over the years, our gala has become synonymous with unforgettable performances, exceptional dining, and awe-inspiring experiences. 'With Maroon 5 joining the ranks of past headliners, we look forward to delivering yet another spectacular evening for our guests as we ring in 2026 in true Atlantis style.' Maroon 5 at Atlantis, The Palm tickets Premium seating Starting from Dhs6,500 for ages 14 and above Starting from Dhs4,500 for ages 4 to 13 Free for kids under 3 Rouge circle Prime views just steps away from the stage From Dhs8,500 for ages 14 and above From Dhs5,500 for ages 4 to 13 Free for kids under 3 Golden Circle Private prime seating in front of the stage, unlimited bubbly, caviar box with personalised truffle service and upgraded premium grape and measures. Starting from Dhs12,500 for ages 14 and above Starting from Dhs8,500 for ages up to 13 VIP Sky Suite Enjoy the VIP sky suite with access to a private butler, catering from Atlantis, The Palm restaurants, full access to the gala buffet and a choice of premium bubbly Starting from Dhs200,000 for up to 10 guests (additional guests can be accommodated at a rate of Dhs20,000 per guest with a maximum of 20 guests) From Dhs6,500. Wed Dec 31. Atlantis, The Palm. More news in Dubai Dubai's 4-day work week is ending soon — here's what's changing There are only a few weeks left The next UAE public holiday is in one month Here's what you need to know Dubai is going cashless: This is what it means for you Say goodbye to coins and notes
The Herald Scotland
15 hours ago
- The Herald Scotland
Seven of the best spots to visit on the Clyde Coast
Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, cultural immersion or simply the restorative power of sea air and stunning vistas, the Clyde Coast always delivers. Tighnabruaich Hotel, Tighnabruaich With an elevated position above the village shoreline, the fuss-free beer garden at the Tighnabruaich Hotel benefits from uninterrupted views over the Kyles of Bute. Yet despite its enviable position it never gets too busy, even on a sunny day, making it a glorious spot to enjoy the best of the Clyde Coast scenery. Sugar Boat, Helensburgh This little gem of a restaurant and bar is surely one of the best in Helensburgh. It's named after the famous shipwreck that can be seen from the town, and it has become a real community favourite since first opening in Colquhoun Square. Visit on a weekend morning for their high-end brunch, or late in the evening for a cocktail – you can bring your dog, too. (Image: Gourock Outdoor Pool) Gourock Outdoor Pool Now immortalised in the pop world after an image of it adorned the cover of Blur's recent album, The Ballad of Darren, Gourock's refurbished outdoor attraction is Scotland's oldest salt water, open air swimming pool. Heated to a relatively balmy 29 degrees, it is open seven days a week and over the summer and offers spectacular views of the Clyde estuary during the day and the heavens at night with its magical Starlight Swims. Hill House Perched high overlooking the Firth of Clyde, Hill House in [[Helensburgh]] is regarded as Charles Rennie Mackintosh's domestic design triumph. Completed in 1904 for Glasgow publisher William Blackie, the exterior and interior were created by Mackintosh in collaboration with his wife Margaret Macdonald. [[Hill House]] is currently encased in a protective mesh box to protect it from the weather, but the exquisite interior is open to visitors, while gangways and steps inside the box provide unique angles from which to view the outside of the building. Cathedral of the Isles Cumbrae, just four miles long, epitomises the perfect Scottish island getaway accessible within an hour from Glasgow. The Cathedral of the Isles, Britain's smallest cathedral, sits in the charming town of Millport, where Victorian villas line the seafront and traditional seaside amusements endure. Founded in 1849 and consecrated in 1851, the Cathedral and adjacent College of the Holy Spirit, were designed by William Butterfield, one of the greatest nineteenth century British architects. The buildings remain with little alteration. Culzean Castle and Country Park Perched dramatically on Ayrshire clifftops, this Robert Adam masterpiece represents 18th-century architecture at its finest. The castle's oval staircase and circular saloon demonstrate Adam's innovative design genius, while the Eisenhower apartment commemorates the American president's connection to Scotland. The surrounding 600-acre country park features woodland walks, a restored walled garden, and the famous Culzean Beach with its distinctive volcanic rock formations. Red deer roam the parkland, while the clifftop paths offer spectacular views across to Ailsa Craig and Arran. (Image: Getty Images) Wemyss Bay Station Enter a world when rail was king and stations were designed and built to reflect its exalted status. Opened in 1865 and then rebuilt in 1903 to a design by James Miller for the Caledonian Railway, Wemyss Bay Station is widely regarded as one of the UK's finest. An architectural masterpiece which utilises glass and steel curves to assist the flow of passengers it is a much loved remnant of the age of the Clyde steamers. It still links with the Rothesay ferry and there are regular trains from Glasgow Central.
Daily Mirror
a day ago
- Daily Mirror
You can visit gorgeous 'real-life Disneyland' that inspired the legendary films
These two picturesque villages in France could be straight out of a Disney animation. But, despite their distinct charm and proximity to a popular tourist spot, they remain relatively under the radar. Two picture-perfect cities rumoured to be inspiration for Disney settings have been revealed - but they won't stay under-the-radar for long. If you're keen to avoid overcrowded tourist hotspots, a trip to one of these picturesque destinations should be the next stop on your travel itinerary. French River cruise operator European Waterways has revealed two lesser-known destinations that supposedly inspired Disney animation. Located 20 minutes from the tourist hotspot Colmar, both Eguisheim and Riquewihr are worth exploring. Located in the wine-making region of Alsace, both destinations are members of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France - or The Most Beautiful Villages in France. Formed in 1982, Les Plus Beaux Villages de France is an independent body that promotes must-visit rural locations. As of 2024, it numbers 176 member villages. This comes after a warning to Brit tourists planning all-inclusive holidays to Spain. Maryanne Sparkes, French Rivercruise expert at European Waterways, explains their distinct charm. 'Eguisheim's secret lies in its unique layout — concentric circles of narrow lanes surround a central château, each lined with meticulously preserved half-timbered houses. 'This design, dating back to the 13th century, is rare in Europe and creates a magical village atmosphere, amplified by vibrant window boxes bursting with blooms in spring and summer,' she explains. The village also institutes regulations to ensure the preservation of its distinct layout. According to Maryanne: 'Local laws strictly protect the village's architectural heritage, meaning no building facade can be changed without official permission. 'This careful preservation maintains Eguisheim's medieval character, which helped it win the title of 'France's favourite village' in 2013.' Similar to Eguisheim, Riquewihr is 'frozen in time' to preserve its atmosphere and architecture. Maryanne explains: 'A slightly different, but equally beautiful Riquewihr is a medieval fortress frozen in time by local experts. Only five kilometres from Eguisheim, Riquewihr charms visitors with its intact defensive walls, cobbled alleys, and medieval watchtowers.' She says that Riquewihr's houses — some dating as far back as the 16th century — are notable for their traditional painted wooden facades decorated with geometric patterns and floral motifs. Walking through its narrow streets feels like 'entering a living museum' and is particularly magical during Christmas time when fairy lights adorn the walls. Maryanne says that despite Riquewihr and Eguisheim's proximity to the popular destination of Colmar, both towns remain 'delightfully undervisited'. 'They provide the perfect alternative for travellers wanting fairytale charm without the crowds, plus easy access to world-class Alsace wines and local gastronomy,' she says. Colmar has achieved notoriety on social media for its pastel-hued traditional homes and picture-perfect canals. With its relatively small population of 67,000, Colmar maintains a "country town" vibe, drawing visitors into its quaint atmosphere amplified by centuries of dedicated preservation. Disney fans might even mistake Colmar for Belle's hometown from Disney's Beauty and the Beast. The area's distinctive architecture, including timber-clad homes, supposedly served as the direct inspiration for the movie's fictional setting in Alsace.
