Latest news with #Opodo
Yahoo
16-04-2025
- Yahoo
The unexpectedly popular European city that Brits are loving right now
Easter is often a popular time for Brits to head abroad for a quick mini break as the Bank Holiday provides them with more flexibility, and one unexpected place which has been soaring in popularity is Zurich in Switzerland. Named in one of the top three growth destinations for this year for British travellers at this time of year by 103%, alongside New Delhi (159%) and Budapest (105%), Zurich is an exciting new Easter hotspot according to online travel agent Opodo. So what makes it special? Zurich is known worldwide for its financial district hub and also has a famous art scene as well as several well known museums, and the upcoming Euro 2025 Women's tournament will take place in Switzerland where we'll get to see Wales play. From superstar gigs to cosy pubs, find out What's On in Wales by signing up to our newsletter here. READ MORE: Former journalist and politician named as likely new chair of S4C READ MORE: BBC Gardeners' World's Monty Don inundated with support as he shares sad news To get there from Wales, the easiest way to travel is from Cardiff airport, via Amsterdam, and trains are also an option, although they are going to be longer. Starting from Wales, you'd travel to London, then take the Eurostar to Paris, and continue to Zurich by high-speed rail. Driving is possible, but involves a long journey through the UK, across the Channel, and through France or Germany, which is great if you're planning a road trip. Coach services to mainland Europe exist too, but they're the slowest option and usually involve multiple transfers. In the city, you've got the Swiss National Museum and Kunsthaus Zürich. Additionally, the Swiss capital is also known for its landmarks like the Grossmünster Church and Fraumünster Church, as well as the Bahnhofstrasse - world-renowned shopping street. For foodies, it's definitely a bucket list activity, as you've got famous dishes like Zurcher Geschnetzeltes, Bircher muesli, and Züri Fondue to try out. And if you're more of the exploring type, you can hike up Uetliberg Mountain for panoramic views over the city and the Alps. Alternatively, you could take a swim or paddleboard in Lake Zurich, which is especially popular in the warmer months. You can also explore the Limmat River by bike or walk along its scenic trails that wind through the city. Let us know if you're jetting off anywhere from Wales in the comments below.
The Independent
05-03-2025
- The Independent
The top historical and religious sites to visit in Italy during Jubilee year
King Charles and Queen Camilla have chosen one of the world's most romantic destinations, Italy, to celebrate their wedding anniversary. The royal couple's state visit next month is rumoured to coincide with their wedding date, April 9th. The trip also aligns with a significant milestone for Italy, the Vatican City, and Rome: the 2025 Jubilee year. This celebration, occurring every quarter of a century, is expected to draw millions of tourists, including the King and Queen. The festivities will extend until the Epiphany on January 6th, 2026. Reflecting the growing anticipation, online travel agent Opodo reports an 81% surge in bookings from the UK to Rome compared to the same period last year. Proof even non-religious travellers can enjoy Italy's collection of godly attractions – ranging from scenic pilgrimage routes to hotels in converted monasteries – these are the country's holiest highlights. Explore the best sites in Rome Anyone heading to Rome this year will undoubtedly explore the Vatican. The world's smallest state is likely to draw even larger crowds than usual, making it advisable to book an organised tour. City Experiences offers a Wonder At The Vatican tour from £84pp, visiting the Vatican museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica. Learn about day-to-day operations as well as papal scandals. Combine it with a two-and-a-half-hour after-hours tour of the Roman Catacombs (£81pp). Dating back 2,000 years, these ancient burial sites reveal clues about the rise of Christianity in Rome and customs concerning death. Discover Puglia and Basilicata Given the huge crowds expected in Rome this year, Ali Butler, product manager for Italy at Explore Worldwide, recommends travelling further afield. ' Puglia offers a quieter yet equally rich alternative for those seeking Italy's sacred heritage,' she says. 'In Bari, pilgrims can visit the Basilica of San Nicola, where the relics of Saint Nicholas rest, while Matera's ancient rock-carved churches provide a deeply atmospheric connection to early Christian history. Alberobello's Trullo Church, Otranto's stunning cathedral mosaic, and Lecce's Baroque masterpiece, the Basilica di Santa Croce, all add to the region's spiritual significance. 'Beyond its religious sites, Puglia's slower pace and coastal breezes make it a welcome escape from the summer crowds of Rome.' Italy's most important Camino is an ancient pilgrimage route used by devotees and soldiers for centuries. Retrace a section of the Via Francigena, visiting significant sites such as Montefiascone's Basilica Santa Margherita, Rocca Dei Papi, once home and office to the nation's popes, and the town of Vetralla, positioned at the crossroads of important Roman roads. Ease aching feet in the ancient thermal baths of Bagnaccio and enjoy wines produced on the fertile volcanic slopes surrounding Lake Bolsena. End at Saint Peter's Square in Rome. Follow in the footsteps of Italy's patron saint while enjoying a landscape of fresco-filled churches, secret hermitages, and chapels tucked into olive groves. Starting in Assisi, this scenic section of the St Francis' Way crosses through Umbria, travelling through woodlands, vineyards and hill-top towns, with opportunities to sample local restaurants and culture along the way. As part of a self-guided tour, luggage can be delivered between hotels. How: Inntravel offers a seven night trip from £1,060pp, excluding flights. Available April 2 to 31 Oct 31. Find peace on Lake Orta Towering over an island in the centre of Lake Orta, the Basilica di San Giulio is an architectural masterpiece for many reasons. According to legends, in the 4th century, Saint Julius overcame serpents and demons to build the sacred Christian sanctuary, which features a collection of beautiful frescoes and an intricately carved pulpit made of dark serpentine stone. A Path of Silence winds the Romanesque building, inviting visitors to embrace the healing powers of nature. Stay at nearby La Darbia, a peaceful hideaway hotel on the lake's shores, surrounded by Mediterranean gardens and Nebbiolo vineyards.
The Independent
19-02-2025
- Entertainment
- The Independent
H&M x The White Lotus is the high street collab you need for your next holiday
Transporting us to warmer climes, Mike White's cult hit The White Lotus is back on our screens and, in the collaboration we never knew we needed, H&M has teamed up with the series' costume designer, for a resort-themed fashion line. The third series is set in Koh Samui, an island off the coast of Thailand, known for its white sand beaches, temples, dense jungle and crystal-clear waters. As always, mystery and murder threaten to spoil the guests' time at the luxury White Lotus resort. Just as the first two seasons caused a boost in travel to Hawaii and Taormina in Sicily, respectively, there's already been a spike in tourism to Koh Samui. British Airways has seen a 33 per cent rise in popularity, while reservations are up by 44 per cent, according to Opodo. Whether you're planning your own The White Lotus -inspired holiday to the idyllic Thai island or you're jetting off for a beach holiday in Europe, one thing's for sure: H&M has your wardrobe covered. Designed in collaboration with Warner Bros, the show's season-three costume designer, Alex Bovaird, has evoked the luxurious, sun-drenched look of the show in the new 25-piece high street collection. Costing between £18 and £118, it's the ultimate summer holiday suitcase capsule – think crochet and floral open-work, playful lotus flower and elephant motifs that nod to the show's tropical location, and ruffled, voluminous silhouettes that would slot right into the wardrobe of Jennifer Coolidge's character, Tanya. As for accessories, expect plunge swimsuits, shell jewellery, pom-pom leather slides and raffia beach bags. H&M collaborations have a history of selling out within just hours. So, set your alarms for tomorrow morning (20 February) when the new The White Lotus resort collection drops. To help you check out faster, we've rounded up our favourite pieces from the line below. Perfect for throwing on over a bikini and looking instantly put-together while on holiday, this floaty chiffon dress belies its sub-£100 price tag. Characterised by Seventies-style ruffles and an open neck fastening, the cascading silhouette is elevated by the tiered maxi hem. Adding that final luxurious touch, the rich wine-red finish is sheer, letting your swimwear peak through. You'll more than get your cost-per-wear with this floral dress. The flattering style features a midi length hem and plunge V-neckline, while cut-out detailing around the waist adds interest. Owing to the monochrome pattern, it will slot seamlessly into your holiday capsule, whether thrown over a bikini during the day or dressed up with heeled sandals and jewellery for dinner. This babydoll mini dress will not only take up next to no space in your suitcase, it will take you from the beach to the bar. Distinguished by its super mini hemline, the dress is detailed with floral embroidery, scallop shoulder straps and a flattering square neckline. The loose, flowy silhouette has ample comfort appeal, too. Neck scarfs are this season's hottest accessory, and this silk take from the H&M x The White Lotus collab is perfect for hot climes. The purple-tone dragon pattern pays homage to Koh Samui culture, while the silky finish will add a luxurious touch to your holiday ensembles. Tie it around your neck with neutral outfits or wear it as a headband. H&M x The White Lotus pom pom leather sandals: £64.99, These statement summer sandals are crafted from smooth brown leather, but the pom-pom detailing is the star of the show. The pair of wide foot straps is connected at the front by a loop, creating a slightly gathered effect. The playful straw pom-pom and ball beads form at the junction of the straps, while leather whipstitching adds to the premium look. A dress character Tanya would be enviable of, this mini dress is the ultimate statement holiday piece. Featuring on-trend ruffles down the neckline and long sleeves, the billowy silhouette is thanks to the chiffon fabrication. Finished in a deep coral colour, it's the perfect hue to complement a sunset dinner. No suitcase is complete without a reliable beach bag. This straw style from the H&M and The White Lotus collaboration looks like it will fit in everything but the kitchen sink. The large shopper is crafted with braided paper straw for a perfectly beachy look, featuring two handles with knotted ends. Plus, there's a zipped inside pouch with a strap attached to one handle, for valuables. H&M x The White Lotus one shoulder patterned bikini top: £27.99, Complete with matching bottoms, this bikini top is an elevated take on swimwear. We love the attention to detail, from the one-shoulder silhouette to the ruching at the front. Finished in a monochrome floral pattern, the expensive-looking piece costs less than £30. H&M x The White Lotus patterned halterneck swimsuit: £37.99, Another statement swimwear piece, this purple patterned one-piece features a halterneck, which can be tied and adjusted. The plunge silhouette is a flattering choice, while the high-cut leg creates a more seamless silhouette. Fully lined with a low-cut back, it's complete with concealed silicone tape around the leg openings and at the front of the neckline, for a more secure fit.
