Explorer Lucy Shepherd on Expeditions, Obstacles and Travel Essentials

As the chancellor finalises his first Budget, how are the "squeezed middle" feeling about costs?

Chancellor John Healey may need to raise money to boost his fiscal headroom - BBC Verify examines what options could be on the table.

Osaka, the third largest city in Japan, lacks the charm of Tokyo or the historic appeal of nearby Kyoto. Home to Kansai International Airport, Osaka is often a jumping-off point for more popular nearby destinations such as Kyoto, Nara and Kanazawa, all a short train ride away. While Osaka is not the typical tourist town with must-visit attractions like temples, shrines and museums, it’s still a great place to hang out and spend a couple of days to enjoy local specialities such as okonomiyaki and...

From sparkling light displays and outdoor ice skating to festive dining, Christmas shopping and spectacular New Year celebrations, St. Louis, Missouri, comes alive during the holiday season. Home to an impressive array of free attractions, including the Saint Louis Zoo, Saint Louis Art Museum and Missouri History Museum, the city offers an affordable festive escape for families, couples and friends alike. Whether visitors are looking for magical winter experiences, seasonal entertainment or a festive city break, St. Louis offers plenty of ways to celebrate Christmas and welcome 2027.

Georgia is becoming a go-to destination for Gulf travellers who want more than a standard city break. Adventure in the mountains and restorative wellness retreats are leading the appeal, helped by short flight times and easy entry. The country recorded 145,513 visits from GCC countries in 2025, a 3.4% increase on the previous year. Momentum was stronger earlier in the year. Visits from Gulf countries reached a record 26,397 in the first half of 2026.

From sailing to the remote islands of French Polynesia and exploring Japan’s ancient Zen traditions to riding a historic steam train through Colorado’s Wild West, some adventures are simply too good to miss, whatever your age. For travellers in their 50s, 60s, 70s and beyond, 2027 offers plenty of opportunities to discover somewhere new, revisit places that hold special memories or finally embark on a long-dreamed-of journey. Whether it’s retracing the footsteps of Elvis Presley in Memphis 50 years after his death, discovering the wild landscapes of Florida’s Everglades or taking the scenic route to the French Alps aboard a sleeper train, these 12 unforgettable holidays prove that a sense of adventure never gets old.

Global tourism is entering a new era of strategic choices. The industry is still generating economic growth, but geopolitical instability, climate pressures, investment challenges and technological disruption are testing its long-term competitiveness. The numbers reveal a paradox. According to the World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Development Index 2026, 92% of the 110 economies assessed have improved their conditions for tourism development since 2024. The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) forecasts a US$12 trillion contribution to the global economy in 2026, supporting around 376 million jobs.

“I think about quitting all the time,” says Jordan Leung, known to his Instagram followers as @69ranch. As one of Hong Kong’s most prominent stand-up comedians to emerge in recent years, Leung’s pessimism is surprising. “I don’t wanna make social media content,” the 33-year-old admits. “Now I’m just fixated on likes and stuff … I don’t know how much longer I can do this.” Sitting directly across the table from him, it is not always easy to tell when Leung is being sincere or performing his...

There's no need to panic in a random gas station without TP when these handy portable wipes exist. View Entire Post ›

Economists hope earlier episodes of labor disruption, from the Industrial Revolution to the Great Depression, can help us prepare for the age of artificial intelligence.

The move will take funding for the 10-year programme to more than £40bn.

The Volkswagen division, which imports all its cars from Europe or Mexico, has been hit hard by U.S. tariffs.