Ruth Lawes

You could easily spend a city break in Chicago barely stopping at your hotel other than to sleep, but we know just how tiring rushing about eating, drinking, shopping and sightseeing can be, so why not book into a spa hotel for a hit of rest and relaxation while you’re there?  When it comes to curating menus of intriguing ancient treatments or modern wellness techniques, designing impressive fitness centres or building gleaming swimming pools, Chicago has got its spa hotel game down. New additions to this list for Fall 2025 include the Palmer House Hilton, theWit and The Langham. Chicago’s best spa hotels at a glance: 💎 Biggest splurge: Four Seasons Hotel 👛 Most affordable: The Palmer House Hilton 🏊 Best pool: The Peninsula Chicago 💤 Best massage: Eurostars Magnificent Mile 🏋️‍♀️ Best fitness center: The St Regis Chicago 📍 Discover our ultimate guide to the best hotels in Chicago Which area is best to stay in Chicago? Chicago is a sprawling city, but where it’s best to stay varies hugely based on the kind of trip you’re planning. First-timers would do well to be right in the action, opting for the River North or the Loop, whereas travelers after something a little more homely but still well connected should consider Lincoln Park or Wicker Park.  🛏 Check out the best Airbnbs in Chicago

‘Overtourism’. It’s more than a buzzword – in the world’s most popular destinations, it’s a problem that affects almost every aspect of local life, from the environment to the cost of renting, transport and eating out. And when a place is overwhelmed by people, it’s not only locals’ quality of life that suffers; the quality of your trip does, too. But it’s not all bad. Destinations are coming up with ways to redistribute tourism from densely crowded hotspots to lesser-visited regions. Travellers are seeking cooler climes and embracing slow travel, allowing space to discover somewhere new. And they’re still riding the ‘destination dupes’ trend, where overrun holiday destinations are swapped out for less crowded, less expensive, but just-as-good alternatives. On our newly updated list of the world’s most underrated travel destinations, you won’t find your Bangkoks or your Balis, your Amalfis or your Amsterdams. What you will find is the hidden side of Yosemite, the French Riviera’s overlooked twin, a place where penguins outnumber people, and plenty more travel inspo where that came from.Why trust us? Because we’ve been to them all. Every spot on this list was picked by one of our expert editors and globetrotting travel writers, recommended because they offer great (or quiet) alternatives to the classics – and in many cases, because they’re places that actually want tourism. In other words, travelling to any of these 33 criminally overlooked destinations is a win-win situation.

It’s been quite the year in train travel. In Europe, new overnight services have taken off across the continent (even though some were sadly axed). North America’s famous Rocky Mountaineer train was named the world’s best rail journey, while over in Asia, China and Vietnam were finally connected by sleeper train after a five-year hiatus. Travelling by train is climate-friendly, offers unparalleled views, and makes the journey itself sometimes more impressive than the destination. Passengers are spoilt for choice with luxury carriages to sleeper trains (where you also save on a night’s accommodation) and everything in between. The good news is that train travel is only picking up steam, rather than slowing down, next year. All sorts of new routes, from Europe and the UK, to Canada and the UAE, are set to leave the station for the very first time. From five-star trips to the Amalfi Coast to a new coastal connection in Cornwall, here are 13 of the most exciting new train routes launching in 2026. The UAE It’s been a long time coming, but next year a passenger train will finally connect all seven emirates. The 900km-long Ethiad Rail will travel through 11 cities and regions across the UAE - from Al Sila in the west to Fujairah in the east - passing through Ruwais, Al Mirfa, Sharjah, Al Dhaid, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai. Comfort is key, with each train offering a range of amenities and entertainment, from an advanced air-conditioning system to charging stations. But fear not, it doesn’t

If you’re tired of hauling yourself from attraction to bar to restaurant at breakneck speed and are instead yearning for a trip covering all the same cultural hotspots but at a much more leisurely pace, then a Spanish train company has the answer for you.  Enter the Al Andalus train, the height of luxury (comprised of carriages used by the British Royal family, no less), which is introducing a new slow route from Seville to Madrid in spring 2026. Over seven days, passengers will explore the spectacular beauty of the Andalusian countryside and beyond, from awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage sites to charming villages. Stops include Jerez de la Frontera, best known as the birthplace of Sherry, where passengers will be treated to an evening of equestrian ballet and Mérida, home to dozens of Roman ruins.  Among the other unmissable highlights are the ‘city of three cultures’, Toledo, an intoxicating blend of Christian, Muslim and Jewish architecture; the bustling coastal hub of Cádiz; and the staggering Great Mosque in Córdoba. Photograph: Shutterstock It will be hard to prise passengers from the Al Andalus, though, which has been modelled on the timeless elegance of the Belle Epoque. There’s a salon and games bar, glamorous suites with 24-hour room service and two restaurants serving traditional Spanish cuisine, to name but a few of the train’s luxury amenities. So, when can you hop aboard? Trains depart Seville on just nine dates in 2026: April 5 and 19; May 3 and 17; June 7

Planning your 2026 adventures? You’re in luck. CN Traveller has just revealed its annual list of the best places to visit next year, from an overlooked European capital about to become a creative powerhouse to an Indian city straight out of a Bond film (literally).  Often overshadowed by the canals of Bruges or the cool creative energy of Antwerp, one of CN Traveller’s picks is Brussels. The Belgian capital is too often written off as a bureaucratic hub or a stopover on the Eurostar, but that reputation is fast changing. In 2026, Brussels will take its place among Europe’s cultural heavyweights with the opening of the Kanal-Centre Pompidou. Once an abandoned factory, the enormous site is being transformed into a cutting-edge centre for modern art, with live performances, film screenings, music and creative workshops. Photograph: Shutterstock Over in India, Udaipur - known as the ‘Venice of the East’ for its shimmering lakes and ornate bridges - is experiencing a renaissance. The enchanting city, which famously appeared in the 1983 Bond film Octopussy, is welcoming a wave of new luxury hotels that bring what CN Traveller calls a ‘welcome sense of renewal’. Visitors can spend their days meandering around the lakes, shopping for local crafts and sampling Rajasthani cuisine at the city’s elegant rooftop restaurants. Meanwhile, Medellín in Colombia, a city long hailed as a master of reinvention, has earned its place on the 2026 list too. Set amid the dramatic Andes mountains, Me

Madrid’s iconic Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía has long been a must-visit for anyone with a love of modern and contemporary art. Part of the city’s famed Art Triangle, the museum is home to works by Miró, Dalí and its crown jewel, Picasso’s Guernica. But now, there’s a brand-new reason to visit. The Reina Sofía has just unveiled an atmospheric new cinema, transforming a former auditorium (originally built in 1987) into a lavish 129-seat film paradise. Designed by Barcelona-based studio Bach Arquitectes, the space takes inspiration from the surreal style of David Lynch and the vibrant palette of Pedro Almodóvar. Image: Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia. Archive of Museo Reina Sofia Recommended: The most unmissable things to do in Madrid right now. Step inside and you’ll find regal red velvet seats and carpeting that recall the grand cinemas of the past, including Madrid’s own 1920s gem, Cine Doré. In contrast, the deep blue walls and ceiling are meant to evoke the sky, creating a sense of being outdoors even while in a subterranean atmosphere. Image: Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia. Archive of Museo Reina Sofia Screenings run Thursday through Sunday, with an impressive lineup already on the calendar. This month’s programme includes two cycles: a film series dedicated to Ira Sachs as part of the LGBT+ film festival QueerCineMad, and a retrospective of works by MetaHaven. Reina Sofía joins Madrid’s impressive list of stunning cinemas, several of

Many travellers head to the likes of Italy, France and Spain for one thing and one thing only: food. After all, where can you find a more authentic Neapolitan pizza than in its hometown of Naples? Then you have France’s gastronomic capital, Lyon, known for its bouchons and Michelin-starred restaurants, and Spain’s sunny San Sebastián for pintxos by the sea. But according to a new study, none of these countries take the top spot for Europe’s most ‘authentic’ food destination. The research, conducted by travel company Saga, analysed more than 5,000 restaurants across 125 European cities using Google reviews, looking at how often the words ‘authentic’ and ‘traditional’ appeared, as well as overall customer ratings. Where to go for the best local cuisine? Well, perhaps save Lyon and San Sebastián for your next trip, as Budapest came out on top.  Best known for its ruin bars and thermal baths, the Hungarian capital is fast becoming a serious culinary contender too, with new Michelin stars added to its dining scene each year. It’s also home to Central Europe’s first Time Out Market, opened just over a month ago. The city’s signature dishes are hearty and flavour-packed: goulash, a rich beef and paprika soup; chicken paprikash with sour cream; and Gundel pancakes, filled with rum-soaked raisins and walnuts.  Recommended: The best restaurants in Budapest Time Out’s Budapest expert Peterjon Cresswell recommends booking a table at Borkonyha, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving inven

Next time you’re waiting for a train, you might just find yourself standing inside a work of art. Prix Versailles, one of the world’s most respected architecture and design awards, has revealed its list of the most beautiful train stations of 2025 - and the results are nothing short of stunning. Among the winners is Sydney’s Gadigal Station, named in honour of the Aboriginal people who are the traditional custodians of the land. Described by Prix Versailles as ‘the epitome of absolute modernity,’ the station also doubles as a public art gallery, with each entrance showcasing a monumental ceramic artwork inspired by railway tunnels. Gadigal Station, Sydney | Photograph: Shutterstock Over in China, Baiyun Station in Guangzhou is far more than a hub for the 24 high-speed train lines, six subway routes, and three bus terminals it serves. Prix Versailles calls it an ‘urban park’ that ‘unites the local community’. Its ethereal design includes a multi-storey circular walkway that weaves through lush gardens, seamlessly connecting platforms with nearby offices and public spaces. In France, Pleyel Station in Saint-Denis, Paris – one of two French entries on the list – makes a striking impression. Natural light floods platforms located 28 metres below ground, and instead of the expected steel and concrete, its vast atrium is clad entirely in warm wood. More than 100 sculptures are also being installed along the full height of the atrium, blending transit and art in true Parisian styl

A new era of travel is setting sail from Malaysia next month with the launch of its first Muslim-friendly cruise. The M/V Piano Land, a luxury liner developed in partnership between Astro Ocean Cruise and Hwajing Travel & Tours, will embark on its maiden voyage from Port Klang on 29 November, promising an experience that blends ocean adventure with Islamic hospitality. The Piano Land is designed to cater to Muslim travellers without compromising on comfort or style. The ship can accommodate 1,760 passengers across 880 cabins spread over 10 decks, offering a full suite of facilities that cater to families, wellness enthusiasts and culture seekers alike. On board, guests can look forward to a wide selection of halal-friendly dishes prepared by the culinary team, including Hong Kong–style roasted duck. In keeping with its ethos, the cruise serves alcohol-free beverages throughout its restaurants and lounges. Religious facilities form a key part of the design, with dedicated prayer-friendly spaces and onboard guidance for prayer times. Families will find kids’ clubs and child-friendly entertainment, while adults can unwind with spa treatments, halal afternoon tea sessions and wellness workshops that integrate relaxation with mindful living. The Piano Land will offer a variety of routes embarking from Port Klang and Penang, giving travellers the chance to explore scenic Southeast Asian destinations while maintaining halal-friendly standards at sea. ‘With Piano Land, we’re showing

Les tendances du voyage n’en finissent pas de se réinventer. Après le retour en grâce du train, la métamorphose des croisières et l’attrait grandissant pour les séjours au rythme lent, une nouvelle vague se dessine. Expedia vient de publier la liste des destinations les plus en vogue pour 2026. Pour l’établir, l’agence de voyage en ligne s’est appuyée sur les recherches effectuées en temps réel sur son site et son application, révélant les lieux qui captivent actuellement les voyageurs les plus curieux. *]:pointer-events-auto [content-visibility:auto] supports-[content-visibility:auto]:[contain-intrinsic-size:auto_100lvh] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id="request-WEB:1b4f8330-2d3a-4203-abf9-3d63c19a78fc-7" data-testid="conversation-turn-16" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn="assistant"> Expedia dévoile les destinations qui feront voyager le monde en 2026 En tête du classement figure Big Sky, aux États-Unis, dont l’intérêt a bondi de 92 %. Située au cœur des Rocheuses, dans le Montana, cette station de montagne est réputée pour ses pistes de ski vertigineuses (1 300 mètres de dénivelé et plus de 250 descentes), mais aussi pour ses activités estivales : VTT, tyrolienne, randonnées… Une destination taillée pour les amateurs de grands espaces et d’adrénaline.  En deuxième position du classement établi par Expedia, Okinawa, au Japon, enregistre une hausse de 71 % des recherches. Loin du tumu

What could make the most festive destination on Earth – the Christmas market – even more Christmassy? A good layer of snow, of course. If you’re dreaming of a white Christmas, that dream could be a reality at one of these European Christmas markets. Multi-modal travel booking platform Omio has listed the Christmas markets across the continent most likely to welcome snowfall by analysing worldwide weather data. Apparently, there are 32 spots in Europe primed to transform into winter wonderlands. Recommended: The best Christmas markets in Europe for 2025 The safest bet for snow-seekers is Finland, which secured the three top spots with markets in Rovaniemi, Helsinki and Turku. Rovaniemi, home to Santa Claus Village, is the coldest of the lot - average temperatures across November and December will be bone-chilling at -8.5C. So, wrap up warm as you make your way around the market, where there will be daily visits from Father Christmas, crafting workshops, thrilling attractions, and even the chance of seeing the Northern Lights. Photograph: Shutterstock UK travellers looking to stay closer to home should head to the nation’s only entry on the list, Edinburgh, which, frankly, feels Christmassy even in sunlight. The Christmas market at East Princes Street Gardens will satisfy all your yuletide cravings, with eggnog, mulled wine and other delectable treats on offer. Then, burn your dinner off at the market’s new illuminated trail, which will add a bit of razzle-dazzle to your Chri

We’re always down for a new travel trend. Whether it be the renaissance of train travel, cruises becoming cool again, or slower-paced trips, they’re always on the money. That’s why we were intrigued by Expedia naming the top trending destinations for 2026. The online travel agency has collated real-time search data from its app and website to uncover which hotspots across the world are gaining traction among intrepid travellers.  Top of the list is Big Sky in the US, which has seen search interest soar by 92 percent. Nestled in the awe-inspiring Rocky Mountains in Montana, Big Sky is a skiing haven, with 4,350 vertical feet and more than 250 runs. In the summer, there’s mountain biking, ziplining, hiking and more.  Photograph: Shutterstock Okinawa is the second-most trending spot in Expedia’s list, up by 71 percent. While Japan is best-known for the buzzing nightlife of Tokyo and the ancient heritage of Kyoto, Okinawa is an island haven, home to blue waters, white sand and the Iriomote jungle, a treasure trove of natural beauty (if you’re lucky, you might spot the rare Iriomote wildcat). Rounding out the top three is Sardinia in Italy, with interest up by 63 percent. In-the-know travellers have long seen the island as a winning alternative to Sicily, or the mainland’s more popular beachy enclaves, like the Amalfi Coast. Of course, no trip to Italy is complete without gorging on local cuisine and in Sardinia, you’ll find some of the best fresh seafood in the country. There’

Crisp linen, fluffy pillows and room service – is there anything better than hunkering down for the night in a nice hotel? Sometimes, they’re so good – with amenities ranging from on-site indulgent spas to one-of-a-kind swimming pools – it’s hard to peel yourself away and venture outside.  Certainly, there’s no need to leave the comfort of your suite with the incredible collection handpicked by the Michelin Guide. The tyre manufacturer’s elusive inspectors have been secretly testing out hotels, and the renowned guide has just unveiled the best hotels across the world for 2025, including over 1,000 in Europe. Here are some of our top picks from the list. Recommended: I'm a travel editor – here’s what I thought of the world’s best hotel Nothing is cooler than timeless elegance, and the De L’Europe in Amsterdam is the epitome of just that. It’s one of Europe’s newest three Michelin Key hotels – ‘Keys’ are the hotel equivalent of Michelin stars for restaurants – so you can bet it’s an unforgettable stay.   Photograph: Booking.com   First opened in 1896, the hotel has undergone a series of renovations but never altered its classic European DNA. Think plush velvet furnishings, huge ceilings and opulent chandeliers at every turn. Here’s our guide to Amsterdam’s best hotels, reviewed by experts. For the ultimate escapism, though, book En Hotel in Poland. Guests will feel they’ve returned to nature as the hotel is set within the enchanting Tatra National Park. To cement the feeling

Winter can be a gruelling season: the frost is settling in, you’ve had to turn on your heating reluctantly, and the days are getting shorter and shorter. But do not despair, as the next few months of hibernation are the perfect time to start planning your 2026 holidays. Trust us: it’s a sure-fire way to banish those winter blues. If you’re still stuck, though, then National Geographic has done you a solid, as it’s named the best travel destinations to visit next year. The travel mag’s explorers, photographers and editors have travelled far and wide to pick the 25 top holiday spots. There are some unusual offerings in the list, ideal if you want to avoid the crowds and visit somewhere more under the radar. Among the mix is Hull in Yorkshire, England, which is finally getting its moment in the spotlight. While the Yorkshire port city gets a lot of bad rap, Nat Geo’s experts say it has a ‘laid-back charm [that’s] hard to resist’. Next summer in Hull, you’ll want to look out for the reopening of Hull Maritime Museum after a huge revamp. There, you’ll be able to marvel at the thousands of rehung artefacts and enter one of its iconic domes for the very first time. Further afield, Nat Geo has singled out North Dakota’s Badlands as a must-visit destination. Why? Within the rugged landscape lies the new Three Affiliated Tribes National Park, the traditional home of three tribes. According to Nat Geo, visitors can ‘participate in photography workshops and Indigenous ranger-led hikes th