Latest news with #CondéNastTraveller
Telegraph
7 days ago
- Telegraph
Seven reasons why Virgin Voyages is the ultimate kid-free cruise
Sometimes the pitter-patter of little feet is the last thing you want to hear on holiday. That's why Virgin Voyages is exclusively kid-free and designed for Sailors 18 and older, for a relaxed and elevated experience that lets you cruise on an even keel. On board its stylish, mid-sized ships, you'll find some of the best food at sea, bars aplenty, dazzling entertainment, glamorous destinations and great service, all completely child-free. With more than 200 awards packing out the trophy cabinet – including being awarded the No. 1 cruise line by Condé Nast Traveller and bagging the top spot for the third year in a row in Travel + Leisure's World's Best Awards, for Best Mega-ship Ocean Cruise Line –, here's why Virgin Voyages has been named the world's number-one cruise line. 1 For a boutique ship experience Small enough to feel intimate and just big enough for all the luxury amenities, Virgin Voyages' Lady ships are packed to the rafters with things to do on board. There is no stuffiness here, no forced formality or dress codes. Just great experiences, friendly service and a splash of glamour. It feels like a superyacht with all the excitement of a cruise. 2 For always included luxury On every Virgin Voyages holiday, you're getting more than £750 worth of goodies built right in. That's access to all restaurants – forget about buffets, it's all about menus dreamed up by Michelin-starred chefs. You can also get your sweat on with group fitness classes and stay connected throughout with Wi-Fi. Even gratuities are covered. Oh, and captivating shows and soft drinks, too. Need to tweak your trip dates or change who's going? Virgin Voyages has got you covered. 3 For fabulous food From decadent steaks to succulent seafood, irresistible Italian to Mediterranean mezze, and flavourful, spicy Korean barbecue to pizza with pizazz, each ship has more than 20 eateries to choose from. Virgin Voyages has rejected buffets and big dining halls in favour of intimate and friendly restaurants – superb cuisine, served with no fuss or bother. Vegetarians and vegans are well-catered for, with delectable plant-based options that are more than an afterthought. Feeling pretty relaxed where you are? Onboard food delivery – what Virgin calls ShipEats – will bring fresh, made-to-order treats right to you. 4 For great nights out There's never a dull moment on a Virgin Voyages cruise. With no kids on board, adults are free to embrace their inner child. Spend the afternoon reliving the glory days in an 80s-style arcade, take a dance class for the sheer fun of it, or challenge new friends to a game of foosball. For those craving a more laid-back vibe, there are plenty of tucked-away corners to sip on craft cocktails or cold-pressed juices, or instead, indulge in some supreme relaxation in your private hammock. Whether you're looking for high-energy fun or nostalgic downtime, it's all part of the adventure. 5 For revitalising days Ready for some serious self-care? Virgin Voyages isn't just about dancing under the stars at Scarlet Night, it's about treating yourself like royalty. Head to the spa and sink into a hot stone massage, try a rejuvenating seaweed wrap or a vitamin-rich facial, or simply relax in the sauna. If you're feeling active, why not jump into a boxing or Bungee session, packed with top-notch Technogym gear? There are extensive classes on offer, too, including yoga, barre and a cycling studio where going for a spin doesn't cost a thing. Or just enjoy a breezy run on the suspended jogging track, with dramatic ocean views to help you keep going when you feel the burn. 6 For dreamy destinations Where would you like to go? In the Mediterranean, Virgin Voyages cruises the chicest shores, from Ibiza to Mykonos and the French Riviera, with longer stays and even overnights so you can make the most of every destination. Alternatively, enjoy the Caribbean's lively waters with tropical landscapes and colourful harbours. North American destinations offer a fresh look at famous cities such as New York, LA, Miami and Quebec City, or you can embark on a transatlantic journey connecting continents. At all ports, there are endless shore excursions on offer. Deep-sea fishing, submarine adventures, cool caving, or cultural safaris – whatever's your bag, Virgin Voyages has something for you. 7 For endless variety From energetic fitness classes to indulgent spa treatments, vibrant dance parties to quiet moments on a hammock, Virgin Voyages caters to every whim. Culinary adventures abound with diverse dining options, while destinations range from idyllic Caribbean islands to the cultural hubs of Europe. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure (or perhaps a bit of both?) all Sailors will find their perfect holiday on Virgin Voyages' kid-free cruises. Enjoy a sophisticated and stress-free escape, where every elevated detail is crafted to deliver an unforgettable experience.
Condé Nast Traveler
7 days ago
- Business
- Condé Nast Traveler
These 10 Cities Have More Skyscrapers Than Anywhere Else in the World
From soaring skylines in East Asia to vertical expansions in the Middle East, skyscrapers have become defining features of modern urban landscapes. Some of these metropolises are even best known the world over for reaching for the heavens, like New York or Hong Kong. But not all cities build upwards equally. Some have turned high-rise architecture and once-impossible feats of modern engineering into a signature, driven by population density, land constraints, and economic ambition. According to the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH), which maintains a database of high-rise structures, the following destinations below are the cities with the highest number of completed buildings over 150 meters (roughly 492 feet) in height. The rankings, updated as of July 2025, offer a fascinating glimpse into where and why the world is building tall. These are the cities with the most skyscrapers on the planet. A version of this article originally appeared in Condé Nast Traveller India. What counts as a skyscraper? As per this data, a skyscraper refers to a completed building that is at least 150 meters (about 492 feet) tall. This benchmark is widely accepted in urban development and architectural databases as the minimum height for a high-rise structure to be classified as a skyscraper. Where is the data from? The rankings are based on the latest figures (as of July 2025) from the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH). The CTBUH tracks the height, construction status, and structural details of buildings worldwide, including commercial, residential, and mixed-use towers. Does this data change often? Yes. In fast-growing cities, especially in Asia and the Middle East, new skyscrapers are completed regularly, shifting the rankings every few months. The data in this story reflects the most recent available snapshot from CTBUH at the time of publication. 1. Hong Kong: over 550 skyscrapers A shortage of flat land has made vertical development inevitable in Hong Kong. CHUNYIP WONG No city in the world has embraced vertical living like Hong Kong. With over 550 completed buildings taller than about 490 feet, the skyline is a forest of high-rises squeezed between mountainous terrain and the sea. A shortage of flat land, coupled with rapid economic growth in the late 20th century, made vertical development inevitable. Many of Hong Kong's residential skyscrapers are tightly packed and uniform, while commercial landmarks like the International Commerce Centre and Bank of China Tower punctuate the skyline with dramatic architectural flair. 2. Shenzhen, China: over 380 skyscrapers
Condé Nast Traveler
16-07-2025
- Condé Nast Traveler
How to Beat the Heat When Traveling in Europe This Summer
Millions of tourists heading to Europe this summer, particularly around the Mediterranean, are trying to figure out how they will handle their vacations in the middle of massive heatwaves. Tourist hotspots like Spain and France are facing record-high temperatures of 114.8°F. The crowded nature of these destinations during summer months doesn't help either, with everyone crowding popular venues in cities like Barcelona and Paris. And with temperatures getting increasingly higher each summer, the heat is becoming something we have to find a way to deal with as each year wears on. How then to not let the heat wilt your summer travel? It all comes down to planning. Firstly, it's important to order activities throughout the day based on when peak temperatures will occur. Make sure to plan all outdoor activities earlier in the morning when it's coolest. As soon as the temperature starts to ramp up—typically between 12 p.m. and 3 p.m.—there are still a whole lot of activities that will help you keep your cool without missing out on the sights. Here is our list of things to do while staying cool in the hottest European cities travelers are heading to this summer. A version of this article originally appeared in Condé Nast Traveller UK. Cooler than outside and usually free to access, libraries are, of course, quiet. Getty Images Get lost in a library Europe's cities are home to some of the most beautiful libraries in the world, where you'll find vast, maze-like spaces with marble walls and high ceilings to gaze up at. Cooler than outside and usually free to access, libraries are, of course, quiet. Browsing books in solitude can be a great moment away from both the heat and crowds bustling around outside. In Venice, large arches and pillars guard the grand Biblioteca Nazionale Marciana where you can peruse ancient Italian, Greek, and Asian manuscripts. The largest monastery library in the world is in Austria; the Stiftsbibliothek Admont is a gilded, high-Baroque style building making for a palatial tour as peak temperatures persist outside.
Yahoo
20-06-2025
- Yahoo
The 3 Sussex beaches that are among the UK's best to visit during the summer
With the hot weather arriving in force this weekend, beaches across the country will be full of Brits ready to soak up the sun. Sussex is home to a number of great beaches to visit, with some even being suggested to be among the best in the country. With a heatwave on its way to the South East this weekend, we have picked out three beaches in Sussex that are highly rated. From one with "superb views" to another great for sandcastles, these are worth visiting. In the spring, Condé Nast Traveller revealed 56 of the best beaches in the UK. Among those named on the list were three beaches in Sussex. First was Cuckmere Haven, in Seaford. Cuckmere Haven beach is part of the Seven Sisters area (Image: Tripadvisor) CNT said this beach was "one of the top picks for the best beaches near London". It described it as "one of the wildest beaches on the south coast, with superb views of the Seven Sisters chalk cliffs". The publisher added: "At low tide, the adventurous can explore the foreshore eastwards all the way to the Birling Gap, or head west for sea caves." This beach has a 4.7/5 rating on Tripadvisor from more than 200 reviews, with one saying: "The cliffs are blindingly white and the beach and surrounding countryside is so pretty". Also making the list was West Wittering beach. This is a hugely popular spot for locals and travellers alike, with CNT saying it "draws a crowd from all over the south coast". It added: "Low tide brings the promise of shallow lagoons to paddle in and creates a blank canvas for sand-castles. "There's a grassy patch ideal for picnics behind the beach huts that fringe the beach." West Wittering is rated 4.1/5 on Tripadvisor, but has received more than 1,400 reviews, proving its popularity. One reviewer said: "Must be one of the best beaches in the south east. Amazing large sandy beach, very dog friendly in the winter months." The final beach making the list was Seven Sisters, which is home to a number of beaches, including Cuckmere Haven, as mentioned previously. Seven Sisters is known for its tough walking routes, providing some of the best views along the coast of the famous white chalk cliffs. There is a beach in front of the cliffs to explore, which is another great option for hikers or day-trippers looking for somewhere to cool off. On Tripadvisor, there are a number of other beaches in Sussex that are also highly rated. In East Sussex, these include Camber Sands, Brighton, Bexhill, Winchelsea and Pevensey Bay. In West Sussex, some of the best beaches include Pagham, Littlehampton, Worthing and Lancing. Camber Sands is regularly recognised as one of, if not the best, beach in Sussex. It has the most reviews on Tripadvisor, with just less than 2,000, still enjoying a 4.3 rating. Recommended reading: The 'secret' beach in 'picturesque' Sussex village crowned one of Britain's best 'Magical' Sussex beach described as perfect alternative to 'stunning' spot in US Five beaches in Sussex receive prestigious award for water quality One review reads: "Lovely sandy beach with a stretch. Lovely dunes that must be protected. Clear water is not too cold. "Plenty of activities and sports. Areas for dogs. Lovely place with both low and high tide." Another said: "It is a golden sand beach when the tide is out. Great for children to build sand castles and great for walking and, at this time of the year, letting your dog run free."
Daily Record
18-06-2025
- Daily Record
The Scottish island that was crowned 'prettiest' you need to visit this summer
The island has been praised for its beaches and food scene. When it comes to choosing a Scottish island to head to for a staycation, having so many options can be overwhelming. The country is home to around 800 islands in total, and many are inhabited and easily accessible. If you are stuck on an island in Scotland to head to this summer, a great choice is Westray. One of the Orkney Islands, that has a population of around just 600 people. What Westray lacks in size, it makes up for in spectacular landscapes. It features dramatic sea cliffs on its west side, as well as a selection of fabulous sandy beaches. Westray was previously named one of Scotland's five "prettiest" islands by Condé Nast Traveller. Placing first on the experts' roundup, the island was praised for its "bijou sand-smeared bays, vertiginous sea cliffs and flat, serene pastureland". One of the top beaches on Westray is Grobust, located a short distance from the village of Pierowall. According to the Orkney website, the beach looks especially beautiful in the aftermath of a northerly gale—when blue waves are thrown into the "impeccably clean sandy shore". Grobust is also located close to the ruins of a Neolithic settlement at the Links of Noltland. An ancient tiny stone figure nicknamed the 'Orkney Venus' or 'Westray Wife' was discovered here in 2009, and can be seen at the Westray Heritage Centre. Situated in Pierowall, the Westray Heritage Centre is a four-star museum that is home to a fascinating and extensive collection of artefacts, documents, and photographs. These help visitors discover more about the island's long and storied history. Also located near Pierowall are the dramatic ruins of Noltland Castle. Dating back to the 16th century, the stronghold was constructed by a Master of Mary, Queen of Scots' household who escaped to Westray following her arrest in 1567. Pierowall is also home to a popular fish and chip shop, with the small family-run Pierowall Fish business running the popular 'JACKS' chippy. Open Wednesdays and Saturdays, the fish and chip shop serves a large selection of fish—plus a range of local chip shop classics—according to season and availability. Westray's food scene was named another of the island's highlights by Condé Nast Traveller. They experts praised it has having "one of the greatest natural larders in Scotland with Westray beef, scallops and shellfish some of the finest you'll find anywhere". As well as Pierowall Fish, one of the most popular eateries on Westray is Saintear. The small family-run café and bistro offers pizzas, sweet treats, coffee, and more. In terms of walking destinations, among the best hikes on Westray is the Noup Head Circular. Taking around two and a half hours to complete, the route offers incredible views of the spectacular and historic Noup Head Lighthouse. Westray is also a top destination for spotting seabirds, with the Noup Cliffs being a particular hotspot. If they're lucky, visitors will be able to see birds nesting and soaring in the area. If you are interested in visiting Westray, the island can be reached by either sea or air. There are regular ferries to Westray from Kirkwall, while Loganair operates flights to and from the island. The full list of Scotland's "prettiest" islands can be found on the .
