Journeying Across Europe
Free lodging provided on Italian island for adventurous youth hikers
Scotland's The Proclaimers might've walked 500 miles for their dreams, but the young ones merely need to trek 500 kilometers (311 miles) on a European walking route to snag three free nights of accommodation in Sardinia, Italy.
The "Walk It Off" initiative (yep, they actually went with that pun!) urges hikers to explore the historical Santa Barbara mining trail, divided into 16 stages and lasting around a month. Prepare yourself for cliffs, caves, forests, beaches, waterfalls, ancient sites, and more. The accommodation vouchers are valid from September 15 to the end of the year, so get your plans rolling now.
If your schedule only allows for a week, a new seven-day walking trail has been unveiled around Italy’s breathtaking Dolomites mountain range. The "Retro Hike" is a 170-kilometer circular route connecting 10 villages, offering a chance to experience Italy's untouched rural bliss.
Top US Eateries
Remember when chefs across America agreed that the top seasoning for your dish is a James Beard Award? The 2024 recipients of this prestigious honor for America's best restaurants, bars, and chefs were celebrated this past week in Chicago. Add these to your dining bucket list.
Denmark has declared that certain South Korean "spicy chicken" instant ramen noodles, popularized in a viral internet challenge, contain too much heat. The high levels of capsaicin in three varieties could potentially poison consumers, according to their food board.
For a milder palate, consider French Polynesia, home to scrumptious Chinese fusion cuisine currently flying under the culinary radar.
And if you overindulge while dining abroad, our partner at CNN Underscored – a product reviews and recommendations guide owned by CNN – has this guide to staying fit while traveling, as advised by experts.
Adverse Weather Conditions
This week was marked by storms, floods, and heatwaves in various tourist locations worldwide.
Deadly floods and landslides in India and Nepal's Himalayan regions claimed at least 10 lives and left approximately 2,400 tourists stranded.
Greece and China suffered through scorching heat waves. The Acropolis was temporarily shut down to visitors, and there was concern for missing tourists on Greek islands.
Planes were grounded at Palma de Mallorca Airport in Spain after a sudden storm flooded runways, even gushing through the roof of the terminal building.
An Austrian Airlines plane en route from Palma de Mallorca, Spain, to Vienna, Austria, suffered significant damage during a hailstorm mid-flight, with the nose and cockpit taking a beating.
Animal Interactions
It's not just picnic baskets that attract Yogi Bear and his furry friends; they're also drawn to coolers and tents. The Oakland Zoo in California has set up a mock campsite to demonstrate how swiftly bears can destroy campsites, and they offer tips on "bear-proofing" your gear to keep both people and animals safe.
Aggressive encounters between sharks and humans are extremely rare, but with the summer heating up and shark attacks this month in California and Florida, it's wise to review our tips on surviving a shark encounter (or how to avoid one altogether).
A large saltwater crocodile, nearly 12 feet long, was causing chaos in an Australian town. After policemen shot it, residents feasted on it. "It was a rather large communal feast, and there were plenty of full stomachs," a police sergeant shared.
On the friendlier side, an escaped pet possum caused chaos on a China Eastern Airlines flight on Monday, prompting passengers to disembark the plane momentarily while the creature was captured.
Lastly, an example of humans and animals coexisting harmoniously: an Oregon ranch where goats act as caddies. According to the ranch owner, "Many people said it was a foolish idea."
In case you missed it
Chinese Tourist Attraction Installs Toilet Timers
** Hurry Up!** And for heaven's sake, put down your phone!
It's not the only instance where time spent on the toilet has stirred up controversy in China this month.
A viral video raised questions about the authenticity of a famous waterfall.
He struck up a conversation with a woman at a bus stop on vacation.
Here's how it led to him proposing to her.
CNN Travel highlights the best barbecue from across the globe
Perfect timing for Father's Day weekend!
Read also:
After experiencing Scotland's famous 500-mile trek, you might be inspired to embark on a European walking route for three free nights in Sardinia, Italy. (travel)The "Retro Hike" offers a week-long walking trail around Italy’s Dolomites mountain range, a great opportunity for those who want to explore Italy’s untouched rural beauty. (travel)
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