Entire BART system shut down due to computer outage
Around 4:30 a.m. the agency first announced that the system was being suspended due to a train control system problem. As of 6:40 a.m., trains remain shut down.
Due to a computer networking problem BART service is suspended system wide until further notice. Seek alternate means of transportation. Find more info at https://t.co/DVWMOmCfmD — BART Alert (@SFBARTalert) May 9, 2025
It is unclear when service would resume. Additional details about the outage were not immediately available.
BART urged commuters to use alternate means of transportation.
This is a breaking news update. More details to come.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
CNN
a few seconds ago
- CNN
The best hammocks in 2025, tried and tested
The best hammocks we tested Best camping hammock: Kammok Roo Double Camping Hammock Best backyard hammock: Yellow Leaf Signature Hammock Best chair hammock: Corrigan Studio Gifty Swing Chair With Stand There's something about the best hammocks that screams (or more accurately, whispers), 'Everything's going to be alright. Relax. You deserve it.' For many of us, hammocks are synonymous with summer, quiet days and a languid pace, and they offer that airy, stress-relieving, swinging comfort that beds and couches can't (except for swinging beds and seats, of course). As a big fan of hammocks — and a literal lifelong user since my mom used to place me in a small hammock to put me to sleep when I was a baby — I thought I'd gather 12 of the highest-rated models and put them to the test to find the best of the best. After several weeks of lazy afternoons and the occasional nap, I found the coziest and most robust hammocks for every need. Whether you're skipping vacation this year, want a place in your home to unwind in the morning before things get chaotic or just need something to bring with you on camping trips, you'll find something on this list. It's worth noting that while I have a camping hammock category in this guide, I purposely excluded actual hammock tents per the recommendations of CNN Underscored outdoor editor Kai Burkhardt. Those are a different breed entirely and deserve a dedicated Roo Double Camping Hammock This two-person hammock from Kammok may look like other hammocks for camping, but its soft-to-the-touch, durable ripstop fabric elevates your experience. It even helps with storage with its eight gear loops for hanging things. Yellow Leaf Signature Hammock It won't be too hard to imagine yourself in a picturesque Caribbean beach resort while lounging in this robust yet gorgeous and breathable weave hammock from Yellow Leaf. It's a little pricier than the competition, but the ultimate relaxation it offers is worth the price. Corrigan Studio Gifty Swing Chair With Stand Though it takes up quite a bit of space, it's hard not to choose this nest hammock over the competition with its sturdy build, spacious and plush seating, and versatile nature. Unlike other chair hammocks, its frame is included in the price. I have to give credit where credit is due: Rival brands like Eagles Nest Outfitters (ENO) and Wise Owl Outfitters make excellent camping hammocks that are just as heavy-duty and portable as the Kammok, but sit at a lower price point. And any one of those could have been a top pick, except that the Kammok Roo takes comfort to another level. Its secret is in the brand's GravitasX fabric, which is its patented ripstop fabric. It's not just robust (with a 500-pound load capacity) and water-resistant. It's also butter-soft and cooler to the touch, as well as breathable, which means that napping and relaxing in it is a much more luxurious experience — one that's a step above all the others in my testing pool. Honestly, I didn't even know camping gear could feel as indulgent as this, especially when made of 100% recycled material. Of course, being a camping hammock, it's extremely lightweight and portable, packable into half the size of a yoga block. And I love that it comes with a storage bag attached, so you'll never lose it. You can just attach it to one of the gear loops on your pack, leaving space for all your other gear. Speaking of gear loops, this hammock comes with eight of them, so you can also use them to hang some of your smaller gear or secure a backpacking quilt so it doesn't slide off the ground. While straps will cost you extra, two heavy-duty carabiners are included in the box, which should make it easy to hang when you've got a stand. If you do want a stand, I recommend getting Kammok's Swiftlet Hammock Stand. It may be expensive, but it's the best stand I've tested so far: high-quality, robust, thoughtfully designed and surprisingly lightweight. It even comes with a travel case so you can bring it to your car-accessible campsite. Many hammocks are similar to the Kammok Roo Double Camping Hammock, but if you're looking for an elevated experience, this is the best camping hammock to get. Just because you're roughing it doesn't mean you can't also luxuriate. I admit, I was initially on the fence about the Yellow Leaf Signature Hammock. Not because it doesn't deserve a spot, but because for something that's missing key accessories, it feels a little pricey. And these days, it's not ideal to go the pricey route when there are plenty of quality, affordable options. But trust me when I say that this backyard hammock is the best I've tested and has earned its top spot despite those disadvantages. Beautiful yet robust (with a maximum load capacity of 400 pounds), luxurious yet rugged, it will make you feel like you've been transported to a luxe beach resort in the Caribbean or Riviera Maya as you snooze in this hammock. Its design not only looks like it belongs in a vacation setting, but its weightless weave material keeps things so breathable yet so supportive (Yellow Leaf calls it, and rightly so, 'a cloud-like embrace'). You may start to feel that cool sea breeze even when you're just living it up in your backyard. At least, that's how I felt napping in it. Don't take its luxe design to mean that it's not as durable as other hammocks. The material is weather-safe, fade-proof and quick-drying, so you don't have to take extra care and be precious with it. If you're anything like me (or your schedule is as busy as mine), you'll appreciate not having to remember to take it indoors to protect it from inclement weather. It doesn't come with tree straps in the box, but its sturdy loops are effortless to hang if you happen to have an existing setup or stand, or want to invest in one — it works with different hammock stands (or at least the ones I tested) and the brand will sell its own stand by December 2025. If you plan on hanging it between two trees, you can buy a strap set that feels strong, durable and tree-friendly. The only thing I don't like about it is that it smells a little funky out of the box, and that lingers for a week or so. Otherwise, this is the best backyard hammock on the market, even if it is pricier than its rivals. The strangely named Gifty Swing Chair from Corrigan Studio isn't something you'll want to bring with you to a park or constantly take apart. Not that it's hard to assemble, though. Its included stand and frame are quite easy to set up, and while the instructions suggest tag-teaming it, I did it by myself without any tears shed. However, it is a little time-consuming and involves several pieces and a tiny bit of heavy lifting. In other words, it's the kind of hammock you set up once and leave it in its spot unless you're rearranging your home or moving. Once it's all ready for you to laze in, however, you'll know immediately why I chose this as the best chair hammock. The whole thing is massive, yes, meaning it'll take up a lot of space, but the return on (space) investment is well worth it. That thickly cushioned seat is not only spacious enough to accommodate two people (though do keep your total weight to 350 pounds) or for one person to spread out and lounge in, but it's also incredibly cozy, plush and versatile. With my cat often joining me (though he prefers to sleep in it all by himself), I've watched TV, napped, read a book, had lunch and even worked on my laptop in it. If it were as easy to get in and out of it as my couch, I'd probably live in it. Not that it's hard to get on and settle in, but because of its deep, ladle-shaped seat, it might be harder for those with mobility limitations. The good news is that it has a carabiner-and-chain set that anchors its bottom to the stand. That limits its ability to swing, but it's also effective at keeping it stable when someone's getting in and avoiding dizzying near-360 turns. Meanwhile, the construction feels robust, with the frame and stand reinforced against weather and UV rays with rust- and fade-resistant coating. Like the Kammok Roo Double Camping Hammock, the biggest downside to this chair hammock is its price. However, considering that it comes with its robust stand and prioritizes your comfort, it's a price worth paying. You wouldn't believe just how many options there are when it comes to hammocks. So, to find the best of the best, I first narrowed down a list to 12 of the highest-rated models in three different categories: camping hammocks, backyard hammocks and chair hammocks. Testing these 12 hammocks proved trickier than I initially thought due to the limited space in my one-bedroom apartment, the sheer size of some of the products and the difficulty of assembly of some of the stands. Still, for two weeks, I persevered — after all, working on my laptop in a hammock where I can go straight to squeezing in a cat nap or watching the latest episode of my favorite show isn't too bad a reward for wrestling big pieces of metal on my living room floor. I tested the hammocks based on these metrics. Performance Ease of use: A hammock must be easy to get in and out of, not just for users who are limber and spry but also for people who may have mobility issues. So, I also enlisted the help of my 67-year-old mother, who has some mobility limitations. I factored in versatility to see if the hammock can be used for different situations, too. Comfort: Getting in is just a small part of the equation. Most of all, a hammock has to be comfortable, whether you're lying in it or just sitting up. I spent some quality time in each hammock, gauging its overall comfort as well as things like breathability, feel and roominess. Durability: Though all hammocks are designed to support a person's weight while they're suspended in midair, it's not unheard of for a hammock to rip under that weight. So, I wanted to ensure that each hammock is strong and sturdy enough to keep its user safe. A true test of a hammock's durability takes time and repeated use, so I plan to keep testing the winners for a few months and report back. Design Setup and assembly: After assembling each hammock (and stand, if included) and setting it up per the manufacturer's instructions, I noted the level of difficulty and amount of time and effort I had to dedicate to the process. After going through the entire testing process, I also noted how easy or hard it was to take apart and store. Size: I didn't just note each hammock's size, depending on its user capacity; I also considered its overall footprint with its stand (if available). I was a little more forgiving of backyard hammocks, as backyards tend to have a bit more room to accommodate larger hammocks. Portability: If a hammock manufacturer promised a travel-friendly product, I made sure to gauge just how portable it is based on how compact it gets when folded or packed down, whether or not the whole thing is light enough to be hand-carried, and if the stand (if included) is effortless to assemble and disassemble. Value Price: After gathering all my notes on the criteria above, I looked at the price of each hammock to determine if it's either an affordable, good-value product or one that's worth splurging on. When choosing the best hammock for camping and backpacking, prioritize the weight of the hammock. According to Alex Schnee, founder of Alex on the Map, 'If you [plan to carry] it [for] long distances, then a hammock made of fabric like parachute nylon is typically the best option. These are compact [so they] fit easily [in] a bag and can be used for sleeping if you don't feel like pitching a tent.' However, you'll also want to 'make sure you get a hammock that was designed for camping,' said Cris Hazzard, trail guide and founder of HikingGuy. 'There's a big difference between lying in a casual ENO hammock to chill and sleeping in one overnight.' If you do plan on sleeping in one, Hazzard said to buy one with a bug net and a rain fly. He also recommended getting tree protector wraps or straps if you're unable to bring a stand, as 'you don't want to damage or kill the tree by stripping its bark.' Additionally, 'check the specs of the hammock — make sure it supports your weight,' Hazzard warned. 'Skimping on material might save you a few ounces, but I've camped with folks who've had their ultralight hammocks rip.' Wise Owl Double Hammock An affordable alternative to my best hammock pick for camping, this Wise Owl Double Hammock boasts many of the features you'll find on the Kammok, including a 500-pound load capacity and enough space for two people. On paper, the Wise Owl Double Hammock seems like a great option that's on par with Kammok's offering. And in some ways, it is, with its 500-pound load capacity, parachute-grade nylon material that's very robust and decently breathable, and a lightweight, highly packable design. Couple that with its sub-$50 price tag and included 9-foot, five-loop straps, and it even seems like a better value than my top pick. However, a closer inspection shows that the Kammok Roo Double Camping Hammock is a more premium product, thanks in large part to the brand's proprietary ripstop fabric that's 100% recycled, more breathable and butter-smooth to the touch. If you're seeking an affordable option, the Wise Owl Double Hammock is the best budget hammock for camping. Want something cheaper and smaller? The Wise Owl Single Hammock is also on hand for single users. However, if you want the best of the best, you won't regret paying that extra $40 for the Kammok. Yellow Leaf The Chair Hammock My second pick for the best chair hammock, this luxe woven hammock from Yellow Leaf is spacious, comfortable and very breathable. It also packs down to roughly the size of a football and is rugged enough to survive the elements. While the Corrigan Studio Gifty Swing Chair was an easy pick as the best chair hammock, this Yellow Leaf one is also a fantastic alternative, especially if you're looking for something more lightweight and breathable, with a smaller footprint. Even if you do invest in the brand's portable Vista hammock stand, which was created specifically for the Yellow Leaf Chair Hammock and designed to be travel-friendly, it still takes up less space than the Corrigan Studio Gifty. It also boasts the same robust and supportive yet airy material as the Yellow Leaf Signature Hammock, with the same weather- and fade-resistance and quick-drying capability. So whether you're napping in this, taking a quiet personal time in the morning or working on your laptop, you can rest assured that your comfort is a priority. The only snag here is that it is $199 without the stand, which is already pricey. You can opt to hang it from a beam in your ceiling, which takes a bit of effort. But if you want to go with the easy route, the Vista Hammock will set you back another $300. SunnyDaze Quilted 2-Person Hammock With Stand This quilted, two-person hammock has the advantages of space, comfort and easy setup. However, getting in might be tricky if you're not the most agile person, as it does tend to flip to its side. This two-person quilted hammock from SunnyDaze has spreader bars built in, so it lies flat when hung. While that may seem like an advantage, it's a bit of a double-edged sword. On one hand, you don't have to worry about it taco-ing (the 'taco effect' is when the two sides of a hammock fold inward, enveloping the occupant). On the other hand, it tends to flip on its side when one person tries to get in, making it harder for someone less agile to manage the deed. More limber and graceful users shouldn't have an issue getting in, however. And as soon as you settle in, you'll find the hammock supportive and very comfortable, and its included pillow decently squishy. It's also robust and roomy enough for two people, though I would make sure to keep the load to under 350 pounds. This hammock with its stand takes up quite a bit of space. However, you'll be pleased to know that its stand is easy and intuitive to set up as well as take apart. My only issue with it is that it's not made of the most breathable material. Using this on a 90-degree Fahrenheit day was not the most relaxing experience because of that. ENO DayLoft Hammock There's a lot about the ENO DayLoft Hammock that the brand did right. It's supportive and very breathable, and completely solved the taco-ing issue. However, putting the spreader bars on can be a bit of a nightmare and not worth the hassle of taking them apart for travel. Like the SunnyDaze Quilted Two-Person Hammock, the DayLoft Hammock from Eagles Nest Outfitters lies flat, thanks to its spreader bars. Well, not flat per se, because this has what ENO calls a '3D-contoured construction,' but you need not worry about the taco effect here either. Unlike the SunnyDaze, however, it's extremely breathable with its mesh material. It also has a higher load capacity of 400 pounds, as well as an oversized cargo pocket so you can have easy access to your essentials. These would have made it a better choice over the SunnyDaze. Unfortunately, the ENO DayLoft Hammock has one annoying … let's call it a quirk. Though it's designed to be portable, with its mesh travel bag and highly packable design, its spreader bars are so difficult to put on that I had to enlist the help of someone stronger than me. And even they took a few minutes to get them in there. I wouldn't recommend taking these bars off once you've got them in there. Vivere Double Sunbrella Hammock Though this looks appealing and is sufficiently comfortable, its stand is not easy to assemble and disassemble, while the hammock itself isn't the most breathable. What's more, the ropes can get caught in a wing nut, depending on your position. The Vivere Double Sunbrella Hammock had the potential to be the best backyard hammock winner, considering its very affordable price point and attractive, vibrant design. Sadly, it may have just ended up making a case to spend a little more for convenience and better quality. Don't get me wrong: if you're on a budget and want a backyard hammock with a stand that will see to your basic hammock needs, this will get you there. But the quality you get is so subpar that you'll want to rip your hair out trying to slot the pieces of the, albeit adjustable and stable, stand together, and even more so when you're taking the whole thing apart (if you want to take it with you for camping or a picnic). I had to get on the floor and wrestle with it just to take it apart for storage. The hammock itself is comfortable enough and feels robust, being wrinkle- and water-repellent as well as UV-, fading- and stain-resistant. Plus, it offers a 450-pound load capacity. However, it's also not the most breathable, which makes being in it uncomfortable during balmy days. What's more, its ropes often get caught on one of the stand's wing nuts when you're leaning too far on one side. If those are worth the compromise for affordability's sake, you can take comfort in the fact that this hammock feels robust. However, if you want to prioritize quality and breathability, you may want to skip this one. ENO SingleNest Hammock This single-person camping hammock is another affordable alternative to the Kammok with its robust, triple-stitched design and a 400-pound load capacity. At $55, it's a fantastic option for the budget-minded. However, the material isn't as soft as the Kammok. There's no doubt that Eagles Nest Outfitters' SingleNest Hammock is robust and made for rugged adventures. It's very similar to the Wise Owl Double Hammock, except it's designed for one person only. It's lightweight yet triple-stitched and durable, with a maximum load capacity of 400 pounds. It also features a stash pocket and two carabiners for added convenience. The only thing it doesn't come with are tree straps, which you'd have to purchase separately if you'd like to hang it on trees. This won't punch a big hole in your pocket, though, since the hammock itself is under $60, and the ENO Atlas Suspension System will only set you back $30. This is a great contender, and like with Wise Owl, the only reason it didn't get picked is because when it comes to feel, comfort and breathability, the Kammok wins. Anyoo Portable Hammock The Anyoo Garden Hammock is not too shabby a choice if shelling out $50 or more isn't ideal. However, you will notice the subpar quality of the material. It's a good value though, even coming with tree straps and carabiners so you won't have to spend more. If money is tight and a $50 or more hammock isn't within your budget, something like the Anyoo hammock could be a good value option. It's under $30 and comes with tree straps and carabiners, so short of needing a stand, you're getting everything you need for that price. However, you're also getting what you paid for here. The ropes are thinner, and the material is very rough and prone to linting. It's fairly breathable, but you'll still feel warm in it on hot days. So, while you may get a good bang for your buck, especially since it also has a 660-pound capacity, you're still sacrificing comfort. If you're comfortable with that, pun intended, to save a few bucks, then it might just be worth it. Arlmont & Co. Cambria Spreader Bar Hammock With Stand This spreader bar backyard hammock is, in some ways, a step above the SunnyDaze spreader bar one. However, it also comes with some disadvantages that might put you off. The SunnyDaze Spreader Bar Hammock's biggest hitch is that it flips on its side when you try and get in. Luckily, that isn't as much of an issue with the Cambria Spreader Bar Hammock. Despite their many similarities — they're both padded, come with a pillow and take up space — the Cambria doesn't suffer from that not-so-fatal-but-still-dangerous flaw. That's all thanks to its weave rope base that has more than enough give that it contours to your shape as soon as you get it. So in that way, it's a better choice than the SunnyDaze. Sadly, its pad is even hotter than the SunnyDaze's. It doesn't just trap heat, but it emits that back out directly onto you. And if it's a very warm day, you won't feel comfortable. What's more, it only has a 275-pound maximum load capacity. And while it comes with a travel case, its stand is way too heavy for transport. Y-Stop Hammock Chair It's hard to believe that the Y-Stop Hammock Chair will set you back $60, considering it's not of great quality. At the very least, it doesn't look and feel as good as advertised. It does have a 500-pound weight and looks pretty from afar, though. Of all the hammocks I called in for testing, I was most excited for this hammock chair from Y-Stop. After all, it looks so pretty and relaxing in the photos, just the kind of furnishing I prefer in my home. Sadly, the real thing feels like a letdown. The canvas material feels cheap and rough; the pillows that come with it are thin; and the hammock itself doesn't have much structure — so much so, it feels a little snug when you're sitting in it. The assembly also required some negotiating because the loops are a little too snug for the spreader bar to slide effortlessly in place. But it does try. It has a 500-pound maximum load capacity, and the fringe is sort of pretty-ish. There's also a side pocket that allows you to keep your essentials within easy reach, and it is, in its own way, comfortable. If you do get this one, though, try to set your expectations low. Still have questions about the best hammocks? I asked Alex Schnee and Cris Hazzard to shed some light on some of the frequently asked questions on hammocks. What's the best way to hang a hammock securely? What's the best way to hang a hammock securely? It's worth noting that some hammocks are designed to be hung on a stand, which is either included or sold separately, depending on the models. Hammocks designed to be hung on trees, however, usually come with carabiners, straps and instructions for proper and secure setup. You must follow those instructions, unless you already use a tried and tested method. A good rule of thumb when hanging a hammock, according to Hazzard, is to 'never hang higher than you're willing to fall. For me, I go for about chair height on the bottom, high enough so that when I sit in the hammock, I can put my feet on the ground.' As far as securing it, it's all about having the right amount of tension. Schnee recommended finding 'two healthy trees that are at least six inches in diameter — these are trees large enough to support your weight.' What is the best height to hang a hammock? What is the best height to hang a hammock? You should hang your hammock 'about 4 to 6 feet off the ground depending on your weight,' according to Schnee. 'Ideally, you would like your hammock to hang about 18 inches off the ground — or roughly at chair height. This will keep you from dragging, but not so high that it is difficult to get in and out.' What is the best material for a hammock? What is the best material for a hammock? That depends on what you'll use it for and your preference. A weather-safe, lightweight weave made out of performance yarn is great if you want something breathable yet sturdy and supportive, especially during the warmer months. However, for outdoor recreation, both Schnee and Hazzard recommended getting a hammock made of ripstop nylon or parachute nylon. And if you want something that's UV-resistant, Schnee said 'polyester blends are also a good choice.' For this article, I consulted the following experts to gain their professional insights. Cris Hazzard, a well-known trail guide and the owner and star of the YouTube channel HikingGuy, where he covers everything from hiking and trekking gear to trail guides, and he also runs a popular blog bearing the same name Alex Schnee, the founder of Alex on the Map, a site devoted to national park guides, hiking, climbing, and enjoying your outdoor adventures. After growing up near Glacier National Park in Montana, she now spends summers in the American West hitting up the trail with her husband and dog. CNN Underscored editors thoroughly test all the products we cover and provide full transparency about how we test them. We have a skilled team of writers and editors with many years of testing experience who ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when relevant to make certain we are testing each product accurately and speaking about the pros and cons of each item. Testing writer Michelle Rae Uy boasts years of experience covering lifestyle products and writing product reviews. She recently tested and reviewed several beach gear and summer products, writing several of our guides, including the best beach wagons and the best beach umbrellas. While writing this guide, she was also testing beach chairs, sunscreens and a number of summer travel items.
%3Amax_bytes(150000)%3Astrip_icc()%2FTAL-naples-florida-FAVUSBEACHDEST0825-224994e1789d4ad683b6b7d534d36631.jpg&w=3840&q=100)
Travel + Leisure
an hour ago
- Travel + Leisure
We Asked 7 Travel Experts Their Favorite U.S. Beach Getaway—and They All Picked the Same Destination
Here's a bit of good news for you: the days may be getting a little shorter, and you might even feel a slight chill in the morning air—but summer isn't over yet. In fact, according to the travel professionals we spoke to, there's no reason your summer ever has to end, so long as you head to their shared favorite beach getaway destination. In August, we asked travel professionals to share their favorite coastal escapes, and one state came up again and again with resounding enthusiasm: Florida. After all, it's called the Sunshine State for a reason, and with 825 miles of beaches along its eastern, southern, and western coasts, it offers more than enough shoreline to explore. If you're looking for specific spots to visit, the experts have you covered. Here are the top beach destinations travel professionals recommend you visit in Florida. Brad Busby, the executive vice president of Hospitality at RREAF Holdings, suggests seeking out lesser-known beach towns as the season winds down to help people unwind on one final getaway. "Cocoa Beach, Florida, is a prime example, where peaceful days on the sand might be punctuated by the awe of a rocket launch from nearby Kennedy Space Center," he told Travel + Leisure . "[It] offers a sense of nostalgic charm, reminding us of a time when beach towns felt more personal and more relaxed." David Ciccarelli, the CEO of also recommends venturing beyond the usual spots in search for more solitude. That's why he thinks a drive up to West Palm Beach is a fantastic way to spend a Floridian vacation. "It's away from the crowds of Miami's beaches, and further north of the yacht capital of the world is West Palm," Ciccarelli said. "I first visited there because my grandparents have a place in the city, and they took me to the beach each day. Certainly, it's changed since then, but it has all the beauty without the busyness of Miami." Looking for both a little hustle and bustle with your beach time? Follow Elizabeth Valdez, the founder of Paradise Food Tours, to Naples and Bonita Springs. "It's where powder-soft beaches, upscale dining, and serene natural beauty overlap, offering the sophistication of Palm Beach without the crowds of Miami or the commercial buzz of other Gulf Coast towns," Valdez told T+L, adding that the area has something for everyone. "Naples offers art galleries, luxury resorts, and manicured golf courses, while Bonita Springs has a slower, more casual vibe: think nature preserves, historic charm, and a laid-back beach culture." Shannon Jones, a travel advisor and founder of KeeKee's Big Adventures, believes more travelers should consider Sarasota as a prime beach escape. "It has a small-town feel with a great culinary scene, think Italian, seafood, and more," Jones said. "The area has a youthful vibe due to local colleges like Ringling College of Art & Design." Bonus: Sarasota also has a strong arts and culture scene thanks to spots like the Ringling Museum and the upcoming Mote Science Education Aquarium. Ava Wilson, a travel expert at Travel Taste Discover, calls Navarre Beach her top pick for a quieter coastal experience. "Loved by families looking for secluded beaches as well as the general tourists, and for good reason, it is a beautiful beach. Sugar white sand, emerald waters, and fewer crowds than what we usually have in Florida's panhandle, Navarre Beach is one of my favorite domestic beach destinations that I recommend to literally everyone." According to Wilson, the prime time to visit is September as it's the time when "the temperatures are still balmy and the summer crowd is gone." Susan Blume, the founder of Personal Escape Travel, recommends an easy, breezy getaway that's quick to reach and packed with everything you need in one spot. "One of my favorite beach destinations to recommend is Delray Beach. Very easy flights from most of the East Coast, lots of hotel options, and a great stretch of beach," Blume said. Here, you can "walk everywhere in terms of dining and nightlife, plus there are always cultural events. It's a reasonable getaway and a good option for a long weekend." Chelsea Wimberley, an online scout for Destin-Fort Walton Beach Tourism, invites travelers to visit her home turf. "Destin-Fort Walton Beach is surrounded by water, and each waterway is different. We have The Gulf, Choctawhatchee Bay, Destin Harbor, and each is unique for all kinds of water activities. It's also the perfect place to try something new, such as snorkeling, fishing, or paddleboarding." Her must-see picks include the tidepools and the Gulf on Okaloosa Island because it's "laid back, kids can play in the sand, and right on the water."
Associated Press
an hour ago
- Associated Press
Axiom Aviation Offers Guidance Through Every Step of Crafting the Ideal Aircraft From Interior Layout to Luxury Touches
08/18/2025, Cleveland, OH // KISS PR Brand Story PressWire // In a world where personalization is commonplace, from our coffee orders to our clothing, the desire to create tailored experiences now extends to the skies. Customizing a private jet is the ultimate expression of individuality. Personalized jet interiors transform an aircraft into a seamless extension of your lifestyle or business. Modern private aircraft are more than just a mode of transportation. They are flying boardrooms, luxurious retreats and family-friendly spaces tailored to the unique needs of their owners. This article explores the exciting world of private jet customization, guiding you through the process of creating your dream aircraft. Defining Your Ideal Aircraft The private jet customization process must begin with a clear vision of the completed project. How will you use your aircraft? The answer to this fundamental question informs every subsequent decision. A business executive who needs a productive environment in the air will have different aircraft interior upgrade requirements than a family planning leisure travel. Consider the following: Making Interior Layout and Design Choices Once you have defined your vision for your private jet, the next step is to consider jet cabin layout options as you design the interior of your aircraft. This is where your dream begins to take shape. The layout of the cabin is the foundation of your custom design. Seating arrangements can range from traditional, forward-facing seats to more creative configurations, such as divans (long sofas), club seating and private suites. A popular option for VIP aircraft interiors is a layout that includes a mix of seating for work, relaxation and dining. The choice of materials and finishes is what truly sets a custom private jet apart. The options are virtually limitless, from rare woods and fine leathers to custom-designed carpets and textiles. Sustainable and eco-friendly materials are also becoming increasingly popular, offering a combination of luxury and environmental responsibility. The color scheme of your aircraft's interior has a significant impact on the overall ambiance. Neutral tones can create a sense of calm and spaciousness while bolder colors can make a strong style statement. Lighting also plays a crucial role in setting the mood with modern LED systems offering a wide range of customizable options. Technology and Amenities Today's private jets are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and amenities. For business travelers, staying connected is a necessity. High-speed satellite Wi-Fi systems, satellite phone systems utilizing your smartphone and video conferencing capabilities ensure that you can work productively from anywhere in the world. Long flights are more enjoyable with an advanced entertainment system. Options include large high-definition screens, surround sound systems and on-demand access to a library of movies, music and television shows. Smart technology can allow you to control the entire cabin environment with a few taps on your tablet or personal device. The systems in your private jet can be set up to allow you to adjust the lighting, temperature, window shades and entertainment systems to create your ideal in-flight experience. The Finishing Touches: Personalization and Branding The final step in the luxury aircraft design process is to add the personal touches that make your aircraft uniquely yours. From monogrammed linens and custom tableware to hand-stitched leather detailing, these small but significant details are essential to private jet refurbishing and can elevate the aesthetic appeal of your private jet. Many owners choose to display items from their personal art collections on their aircraft. You can also commission custom artwork or sculptures to create a one-of-a-kind interior. And the customization process is not limited to the interior of a private jet. You can also design a custom paint scheme and livery that reflects your personal brand or company identity. Working Collaboratively and Productively With the Experts Customizing a private jet is a complex undertaking that requires the expertise of a dedicated team of professionals. A knowledgeable and experienced project manager can be your most valuable asset during the private jet configuration and design process. They work with you to understand your vision and then oversee every aspect of the project from design and engineering to completion and delivery. This ensures a seamless and stress-free experience. Your concerns are their concerns, and your project manager takes action to address them. The customization of a private jet is a collaborative effort between the owner, the designer and the customization professionals. The designer helps you translate your vision into a concrete design, while the customization team ensures that all modifications meet your needs and adhere to the strictest safety and regulatory standards. Acquiring a Private Jet To Make Your Own A custom private jet is more than a means of travel. It is a statement of your personal style, a tool for productivity and a space for relaxation. By carefully considering your needs and working with a team of experienced professionals, you can create an aircraft that is truly your own. The result is a travel experience that is as unique and individual as you are. Needless to say, before the first design swatch is chosen or the floor plan is drafted, the journey to a personalized aircraft begins with a foundational step: the acquisition. This is the critical phase where vision meets reality, and selecting the right aircraft is essential to the success of any customization project. Even in a certain model type there may be specific serial number aircraft with systems, interior components, modifications, upgrades and general layout that makes your desired end result more readily achievable and easier on the budget. Navigating the complex global marketplace for private jets requires deep market intelligence, objective analysis and a partner whose sole focus is on your best interests. This is the specialized expertise of a dedicated acquisition consultant. While many firms can find an aircraft, a true advisor delves deeper, conducting a thorough needs assessment to ensure the selected airframe aligns perfectly with your intended mission profile, operational budget and long-term goals. They are your advocate, managing every detail from the worldwide search and candidate evaluation to contract negotiation and the intricate pre-purchase inspection process. Our team at Axiom Aviation excels in this essential role, functioning as more than just a broker. We are your dedicated partner and representative throughout the acquisition journey. Our process is built on a foundation of transparency, data-driven research and an unwavering commitment to our clients. We leverage our global network and comprehensive market analysis to identify both on-market and exclusive off-market opportunities, presenting you with clear, unbiased options that meet your specific criteria. While we do not perform the physical customizations, our mission is to secure the ideal aircraft that will serve as the perfect canvas for your vision. We ensure the asset you acquire is mechanically sound, fairly priced and perfectly suited for its intended purpose, setting the stage for a seamless transition to a completion center to bring your dream aircraft to life. Contact us to learn more about our aircraft sales & brokerage, acquisitions, project management and consulting. About Axiom Aviation, Inc. Axiom Aviation delivers personalized, dedicated service that takes the weight of the aircraft transaction process off clients' shoulders. From aircraft and market review, and physically evaluating the aircraft, to overseeing inspections and performing formal appraisals, Axiom Aviation serves as a trusted advisor to aircraft owners and aircraft finance companies. Axiom Aviation is a proud Accredited member of the International Aircraft Dealers Association and the National Aircraft Finance Association. For more information, visit Media Contacts Andy Toy, President/Managing Partner Mike Herchick, COO/Managing Partner 216-261-8934 Source: Release ID: 1753563
