Here's what leading Bostonians like to read, eat, and do in the city
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TODAY'S STARTING POINT
Confession time: I wrote this newsletter from a place that is not Boston.
I'll be there soon, it's true. But I've felt some self-consciousness about writing about a city before actually moving there. Don't worry: I'm no stranger. Growing up in Maine, I visited Boston often as a kid, and lived there for a year before college. Still, I'm anxious to get to know it better.
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So to help me get a jump start, I reached out to elected officials, business and community leaders, university presidents, sports figures, and other influential Bostonians for recommendations. I asked them to tell me something they've read, eaten, heard, seen, or visited that helped them get to know the city they inhabit. Today's newsletter shares their responses.
Books
I often understand a place better when I read about it, and several people I reached out to recommended books.
Gayatri Patnaik
, the director of Beacon Press, suggests '
Jessica Tang
, who leads American Federation of Teachers Massachusetts, recommends '
If you prefer fiction,
Governor Maura Healey
admires the novels of
Tiya Miles
, a Harvard historian, recommends '
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History
Boston is synonymous with American history.
James Rooney
, president of the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce, recommends the
Marcelo Suárez-Orozco
, the chancellor of UMass Boston, recommends reading the Declaration of Rights
But the city didn't stop making history in the 1700s.
Mayor Michelle Wu
recommends the
If museums and archives sound too dusty, try getting your history on Instagram instead.
Vickie Alani
, a senior principal at CBT Architects, recommends
Art
Boston boasts more than a dozen art museums, but several people pointed me to the
Even if you've already been, as I have, museum director
Peggy Fogelman
suggests taking another look at an 1888 portrait of Gardner, the collector who started the museum. 'Mrs. Gardner's bare arms and a plunging neckline sparked salacious rumors among her contemporaries,' Fogelman wrote.
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The museum, which the eclectic Gardner designed to mimic a Venetian palace, is itself a work of art. In the atrium, 'soaring glass ceilings and immaculate, lush gardens reflect the passionate vision of a woman ahead of her time,'
Susan Goldberg
, the president of GBH, told me. 'Sitting in the garden,' says
Matthew Teitelbaum
, who directs the
Others suggest going outside.
Lee Pelton
, who runs The Boston Foundation, recommends
Food
Instead of feasting your eyes, maybe you're just looking to feast.
Alex Cora
, the manager of the Red Sox, praised chef Massimo Tiberi's award-winning
For something lower-key,
David Nagahiro
of CBT, the architecture firm, recommends
Music
For an auditory experience,
Sally Kornbluth
, MIT's president, recommends the
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Your ideas
Every list is partial, and now it's your turn to add more. Send your ideas about what to read, watch, eat, and do around the city to
🧩 7 Across:
| 🌞 46°
POINTS OF INTEREST
Tesla is recalling nearly all of its futuristic-style Cybertrucks — this is the eighth recall for the model.
SOPHIE PARK/NYT
Boston and New England
Unmasked:
The names of several more men accused of paying for sex at a Cambridge brothel ring
School's out:
The Boston School Committee approved a controversial plan
No answers:
The German national with a green card ICE arrested this month in New Hampshire was mistreated and still hasn't had
A 'secret society':
Inside the federal racketeering case
Trump administration
Stayed:
A judge ordered the administration not to deport a Georgetown University researcher here on a visa whom ICE arrested this month. The administration has accused him of spreading 'Hamas propaganda.' (
Conflict of interest:
Defense Department officials plan to brief Elon Musk about top-secret military plans if a war breaks out with China, where Musk does business. A Pentagon spokesman denied it. (
'Radical mayor':
The White House
Alzheimer's:
An experimental treatment appears to delay symptoms in people genetically disposed to the disease. But Trump's efforts to slash research funding could imperil it. (
Kid you not:
Musk's estranged daughter, who is transgender, called the administration's treatment of trans people 'cartoonishly evil.' (
The Nation and the World
Crazy glue:
Tesla recalled nearly all of its Cybertrucks over an adhesive issue that can cause a panel
Polling the dice:
Mark Carney, Canada's new prime minister, will dissolve parliament and call new elections. His Liberal Party has gained support amid Trump's criticisms of Canada. (
Corruption concerns:
Israel's cabinet voted to fire the head of the country's domestic intelligence agency, which is investigating two of the prime minister's aides. (
BESIDE THE POINT
By Teresa Hanafin, Globe Staff
🏳️🌈
Safe spaces:
Three of the five most LGBTQ-friendly colleges, as ranked by the Princeton Review, are in New England. Tough, but tolerant. (
🐾
Top dog:
French bulldogs are once again the
🥺
Sad sacks:
Americans still are among the unhappiest people in the developed world. But those stoic Nordics are having a good time. (
💥
What did you say?
We measured
📆
Things to do:
Jazz at the BSO, the Addams Family at the Wang, World Figure Skating Championships at TD Garden.
📺
Things to watch:
'Anora,' 'Wicked,' and more new and good movies and TV shows to
🖼️
Couch viewing:
No need to travel to see inside the world's museums; Google has 3D immersive exhibits. (
Advertisement
🎸
Blind date:
'When someone is in a band, it gives them major attraction points.' A metalhead and a karaoke singer
🎵
Shaq can sing?
March Madness-like brackets are proliferating. Here's one that's looking for the best song by an athlete. (
🍠
Superfoods for spring:
Here are
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USA Today
an hour ago
- USA Today
Hotter summers have travelers ditching popular destinations for a 'coolcation'
Summer vacations are as American as apple pie, baseball and Fourth of July fireworks. The classic version usually involves a road trip to someplace warm and sandy. Boardwalks, roller coasters and campfires are nice touches, and copious amounts of seasonal snacks are standard. But the quintessential summer vacation is changing, according to Rose Gray, business relationship director for vacation sales at Oshkosh, Wis.-based Fox World Travel. "Destinations that were frequently requested for traditional summer vacations are no longer at the top of travelers' lists thanks to rising temperatures, over-tourism and extreme fire seasons,' Gray says. Enter the 'coolcation.' 'In addition to seeking more pleasant temperatures, travelers are looking for destinations with fewer crowds,' Gray says. 'By choosing less-popular tourist spots with … slightly cooler temperatures, vacationers looking for a 'coolcation' are discovering remote locations with unique activities.'The mercury doesn't lie: Last summer, 180 cities in the Northern Hemisphere had at least one dangerous extreme heat wave, according to Climate Central, which says extreme heat waves in these cities are, on average, 21 times more likely than they were 30 years ago. 'Summers in the United States have warmed in general, but it's the West, South and Northeast that are warming the fastest,' says Jonathan Erdman, senior digital meteorologist at 'To put that into context: If your kids are off school in the summer and you're planning to take that big family trip, you have to think carefully about where you want to go. Do you really want to go to the Gulf Coast, for example, where the humidity is off the charts in July and August, and where you're dealing with throngs of people who had the same idea that you did?' If the typical summer vacation is a sweaty cocktail of UV rays and body heat, then the coolcation is a comfortable tonic of invigorating adventure, refreshing respite and easy escapism. Here are a handful of cooler-weather locales where you can try one of your own. Western North Carolina When he lived in the Northeast, Neal K. Shah took annual family beach vacations to places like North Fork, N.Y., and Point Pleasant, N.J. When he moved to the Research Triangle Park area of Raleigh-Durham, N.C., he likewise relocated his summer holiday to Wrightsville Beach, N.C. Last year, however, the family decided to ditch the beach altogether. 'Last July was nuts — 105-plus degrees in Durham,' says Shah, CEO of elder care company CareYaya Health Technologies and cofounder of Counterforce Health, an AI startup that helps patients appeal denied health insurance claims. 'It was too hot to do family activities outside, so we found a random cabin up near Mount Mitchell. It was 20 degrees cooler up there. Now we're mountain people.' The highest peak in the Appalachian Mountains, Mount Mitchell is approximately 35 miles from Asheville, N.C., another Shah family favorite. 'Asheville proper stays, like, 15 degrees cooler than Raleigh-Durham,' says Shah, whose favorite spots to enjoy a cool summer breeze include Craggy Gardens, a popular hiking destination on the Blue Ridge Parkway that's known for its colorful wildflowers, and the historic Grove Park Inn, whose terrace offers spectacular views at sunset. Yet another hot — or rather, cool — spot in the region is Jackson County, N.C. Check out Whitewater Falls, the highest waterfall east of the Rockies; go swimming at Sliding Rock in Cashiers, where a natural rockslide leads to a pool of cool mountain water; rent a pontoon boat to explore the islands and coves around Lake Glenville, the highest lake east of the Mississippi River or travel the Blue Ridge Snorkel Trail to witness the underwater species that inhabit western North Carolina's scenic rivers and streams. Northern Michigan Although her home base of Chicago is best known for cold, blustery winters, its hot and humid summers can be equally extreme, says Janice Moskoff, author of the travel blog For that reason, she escapes at every opportunity to places such as northern Michigan. One of her favorite destinations is Traverse City, Mich., where the average high temperature in July is 81 degrees. On Lake Michigan beaches, 'Many west-facing dune-lined beaches look and sound like the ocean. And the water is refreshingly chill given its northern location, making it a perfect way to cool off on the sunniest July or August day,' Moskoff says. Take a break from the beach and visit the locally owned wineries that constitute the Traverse Wine Coast — for example, Gilchrist Farm, which is known for sustainable viticulture and farm-to-table cuisine, and Chateau Grand Traverse, a family-owned winery celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. Cherry picking at the many local orchards also is a favorite pastime, as are camping, hiking and paddling at picture-perfect Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Elsewhere in Northern Michigan, don't miss Mackinac Island and Marquette County. An exclusively pedestrian destination that's as mild as it is charming, the former offers parasailing, biking, horse-drawn carriage rides and oodles of world-famous fudge. Located in the Upper Peninsula on the southern shore of Lake Superior, the latter is packed with picturesque waterfalls, lighthouses, rivers and hiking trails. New England Plymouth, Mass., antiques dealer Molly Garcia grew up on nearby Cape Cod, where beaches, bonfires and clam bakes make for quintessential summers. Although the Cape is cool, it's also extremely crowded in summer, which is why Garcia and her family have started spending the season in New Hampshire's Mount Washington Valley. 'Originally, we would make a few trips up over winter, stay at the (Omni Mount Washington Resort & Spa) and ski at Bretton Woods,' says Garcia, owner of White Whale Antiques & Vintage Goods. 'We then decided to take a summer vacation (there) … and that's when we realized how much we loved the area year-round.' Days can be warm at summer's peak, but evenings are 'cool' and 'magical,' according to Garcia, who says the valley's sky is filled with stars at night. She recommends tubing down the Saco River, swimming in the scenic waterfalls known as Diana's Baths, riding the Cog Railway to the peak of Mount Washington, visiting the Story Land theme park if you have young children or hiking at White Mountain National Forest, which is home to 48 4,000-foot mountains that adventurous climbers can try their hand at summiting. Moskoff also loves New England and spent a recent summer vacationing in Vermont with her husband. 'I wanted to be in the mountains and the coolness of the northern woods at the height of its summer season. So, we opted for an utterly relaxing and lovely inn-to-inn hiking trip,' she says, recalling stops in Bridgewater, Woodstock, Chittenden, Middlebury and Burlington. 'The historic inns overflowed with character, the cuisine was local and excellent, and the trails — some of which allowed us to pick wild blueberries as we walked — were uncrowded,' she says. Upstate New York When he moved with his fiancée from Massachusetts to the Las Vegas area, journalist and psychologist Jamie Bichelman thought he might melt. So come summer, the couple beelines it back to the East Coast. While Bichelman is partial to the Catskills region — it's 'extremely beautiful' and 'such an enjoyable drive' from New York City — an even better bet for coolcationers might be the Adirondack region further north. Birthplace of the word 'vacation,' which is said to have originated there when Gilded Age New Yorkers would 'vacate' for holidays upstate, the Adirondacks boast comfortable summer temps that average in the mid-70s. Visitors will find 2,000 miles of shady hiking trails, 3,000 ponds and lakes with water originating from cool mountain peaks, 30,000 miles of fresh and often chilly rivers and streams and millions of acres of sun-filtering forests. Favorite activities include walking beside gorgeous Mirror Lake in Lake Placid; cruising Lake George with Lake George Steamboat Company; jumping from 'The Bluffs' into the swimming hole at Big Tupper Lake; camping and fishing on Lake Champlain; and riding the whimsical Adirondack Carousel in Saranac Lake. The Rocky Mountains Often times, the best direction to go for heat-weary travelers is up. That makes the Rocky Mountains an ideal destination. Because they often fly under the radar in summer, ski towns that are crowded in winter can be especially attractive. In Snowmass, Colo., for example, temperatures average in the 70s during the day and dip into the 40s at night. Snowmass Village, near Aspen, is surrounded by 2.8 million acres of wilderness for hiking, biking, fly-fishing, horseback riding and more. The ski resorts in nearby Summit County, Colo., likewise are full of outdoor adventure, including whitewater rafting, dog sledding through wildflower-filled meadows, gondola rides and zip-lining. Or try e-biking along the 9.3-mile Blue River Bikeway from Breckenridge to Frisco, which features stunning views of Colorado's Lake Dillon along the way. Jackson, Wyo., is similarly cool and outdoorsy. Gateway to Grand Teton and Yellowstone national parks, it's home to epic wildlife viewing and a culture-rich town square that's flush with art galleries, theaters, breweries, shops and restaurants. Moskoff's favorite Rocky Mountain getaway is Montana's Glacier National Park, where chilly morning hikes are the norm even on the hottest days. 'I wanted to come to Glacier for its majestic scenery, outdoor experiences, and the chance to see and drive through the open spaces in Montana,' she says. 'It delivered and was gorgeous.'
Miami Herald
4 hours ago
- Miami Herald
Top casinos globally by visitor reviews
The top five land-based casinos in the world, based on TripAdvisor ratings, each offer a unique blend of gaming, glamor, and local flavor. OLBG explores their location highlights, signature features, and authentic guest impressions. Gaming enthusiasts and jet-setters alike will find that the world's top casinos are far more than mere gambling halls - they are entertainment powerhouses and cultural landmarks. From ultra-modern resorts in Asia to historic European gambling salons, these casinos offer luxury, excitement, and one-of-a-kind experiences that attract millions of visitors each year. 1. The Venetian Macao - Macau, China Location and Highlights : The Venetian Macao stands on Macau's Cotai Strip as the largest casino in the world, with 550,000 square feet of gaming space across four themed gaming areas. Opened in 2007, this 39-story mega-resort was modelled after its Las Vegas counterpart, complete with Venice's iconic canals and architecture. Visitors can glide in gondolas along indoor canals under painted blue skies, shop in 350+ luxury boutiques, and enjoy global cuisine in over 30 restaurants. The Venetian's Cotai Arena hosts major concerts and sporting events, enhancing its appeal beyond the casino floor. Unique Features and Experiences : Often dubbed the "crown jewel of Macau's gaming scene," The Venetian Macao immerses guests in Italian Renaissance ambience on a colossal scale. Its Grand Canal Shoppes and replica St. Mark's Square create a romantic atmosphere, while 3,000 luxury suites cater to high-rollers and vacationers alike. Family-friendly entertainment like street performer shows and the indoor gondola rides make it more than just a gambler's haven. Notably, the Venetian drew over 30 million visitors annually in its heyday, underscoring its global allure. TripAdvisor Says: "Venetian is perhaps the most picturesque of casinos … They offer different alternatives to enjoy so it ranks as the best." Many travelers marvel at the resort's lavish décor and lively atmosphere - it's a must-see even for non-gamblers. One reviewer noted that "the scale and detail of the Venetian Macao are simply breathtaking, making every visitor feel like they've been transported to Italy." 2. Bellagio - Las Vegas Location and Highlights : Rising from the Las Vegas Strip, the Bellagio is world-renowned for its elegance and the iconic Bellagio Fountains - a choreographed water show on an 8-acre lake. Opened in 1998 by legendary developer Steve Wynn, Bellagio brought a new level of luxury to Vegas with its Italian Lake Como inspiration and art-adorned interiors. The resort features a 116,000-square foot casino, a poker room famous for high-stakes games, and an on-site Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art. Its Conservatory and Botanical Gardens transform seasonally into stunning floral spectacles that attract millions of visitors. Unique Features and Experiences : The Bellagio epitomizes Las Vegas glamour - from its Dale Chihuly glass flower ceiling in the lobby to Michelin-starred dining (such as Picasso and Le Cirque). It's home to Cirque du Soleil's "O" aquatic show, performed in a custom theater and considered one of the most spectacular shows in Vegas. High-rollers appreciate "Bobby's Room," an elite poker enclave, while casual visitors simply enjoy the sumptuous atmosphere. The resort's dancing fountains, which perform every 30 minutes in the evenings, have become an attraction in their own right, enchanting over 80% of Vegas's 40+ million annual visitors. Bellagio's commitment to luxury and art (it even once housed an $88 million fine art collection) sets it apart on the Strip. TripAdvisor Says: "The atmosphere was vibrant, the staff were friendly and we had a fantastic time. We'll definitely be returning - highly recommended," one guest raved. Visitors frequently praise Bellagio's lively casino floor and stunning décor, noting that the "rooms are elegant, the casino is lively, and the Roman-inspired architecture is stunning" - a nod to its classically beautiful design and ambiance that elevates the Vegas experience. 3. Casino de Monte-Carlo - Monte Carlo, Monaco Location and Highlights : Nestled in the heart of Monaco, the Casino de Monte-Carlo is a legendary temple of chance that has been synonymous with European glamour since 1863. This historic casino, with its Belle Époque architecture designed by Charles Garnier (of Paris Opera fame), overlooks the Mediterranean and is surrounded by the elegant Monte Carlo Square and gardens. Inside, gilded halls and frescoed ceilings set the stage for classic games like roulette, chemin de fer, and baccarat. The casino famously helped save the Grimaldi principality's finances in the 19th century and has since become a playground for aristocrats and the international elite. Unique Features and Experiences : Monte-Carlo offers a uniquely exclusive experience - locals are not permitted to gamble in the casino, so the clientele is composed of international visitors, many dressed to the nines. The venue's Salon Privés host high-stakes tables in secluded luxury, and the adjacent Opera House (within the same complex) adds cultural cachet. The James Bond connection also enhances its appeal: Scenes from Casino Royale and other Bond films were set here, cementing its image as a backdrop for espionage and elegance. Though relatively small in size, the Casino de Monte-Carlo exudes a timeless sophistication that continues to draw about 2 million visitors a year for its ambience and history. TripAdvisor Says: "A stunningly opulent building, with visitors allowed to take photos and wander the private gambling salon before 2 p.m.," notes one reviewer, emphasizing that the casino itself is worth a tour. Another visitor wrote that entering Monte-Carlo "feels straight out of a James Bond movie … a truly beautiful building with an even more beautiful interior." The consensus: Even if you're not betting, the sheer luxury and Old World charm make it a must-visit in Monaco. 4. Marina Bay Sands - Singapore Location and Highlights: An architectural icon of modern Singapore, Marina Bay Sands (MBS) is an integrated resort known for its three soaring hotel towers topped by the SkyPark - a boat-shaped rooftop park with the world's highest infinity pool. Opened in 2010, MBS transformed Singapore's skyline and tourism scene. Its casino spans four levels with 600+ gaming tables and 2,300 slot machines, and the resort also encompasses a luxury mall, two theaters, a museum, celebrity-chef restaurants, and over 2,200 hotel rooms. MBS has become a must-see attraction, helping Singapore draw tens of millions of visitors annually (the resort alone welcomed over 45 million visitors per year pre-pandemic). Unique Features and Experiences: Beyond the bustling casino, Marina Bay Sands offers a 360-degree experience. Take in panoramic views of the city from the SkyPark observation deck or swim in the famous rooftop infinity pool (available to hotel guests) - an experience on many travelers' bucket lists. Onsite is the ArtScience Museum (shaped like a lotus) and constant entertainment ranging from Las Vegas–style revues to international concerts. The Shoppes at MBS feature high-end brands and even boat rides on an indoor canal. As a result, MBS seamlessly blends gaming with leisure and culture. The casino itself is noted for its strict entry protocols (locals must pay a levy, a unique Singaporean regulation) and a vast, column-free design that feels both grand and accessible. TripAdvisor Says: "First impressions: The casino is enormous, spanning four floors. The check-in process was stringent but fair," reports one visitor. Gamblers appreciate the extensive game variety and modern ambiance, while non-gamblers are drawn to the surrounding attractions. Another review highlighted that "even if you don't gamble, Marina Bay Sands is worth visiting for the skyline views and the incredible rooftop pool - it's luxury redefined." In short, MBS offers something for everyone, from high-stakes thrills to family-friendly fun. 5. Wynn Palace - Macau, China Location and Highlights: Opened in 2016 on Macau's Cotai Strip, Wynn Palace is a newer entrant that quickly set high standards for luxury. This Wynn Resorts property is a 28-story integrated resort themed around opulence and whimsy - famous for its Performance Lake, an 8-acre lake with dazzling fountain shows, and the SkyCab gondolas that ferry guests over the water. Inside, Wynn Palace features 424,000 square feet of casino space with an emphasis on high-end gaming (hundreds of table games and slots), over 1,700 lavish hotel rooms, fine art installations, and some of Macau's top dining (including Michelin-starred restaurants). Wynn Palace has garnered numerous Forbes Five-Star awards, reflecting its exceptional service and facilities. Unique Features and Experiences: Wynn Palace is often described as "arguably the most beautiful hotel in the world" by its creator Steve Wynn, and it shows: The resort is adorned with over-the-top floral sculptures (like a carousel made of flowers), rare art pieces, and extravagant floral displays by Preston Bailey that change seasonally. Guests can ride a SkyCab cable car (free to the public) into the resort, offering a great view of the fountain shows - a truly unique "arrival" experience in the casino world. The casino itself caters to VIPs with exclusive gaming salons and a sophisticated atmosphere, while also welcoming casual players. Wynn Palace's combination of luxury retail, sumptuous spa (the largest in Macau), and visual delights makes it a standout even in Macau's competitive casino market. TripAdvisor Says: "Wynn Palace is lauded for its luxurious and elegant atmosphere, which guests find grand and inviting." Travellers frequently mention the impeccable service and palatial décor, whether in the suites or on the casino floor. One reviewer stated, "The moment you step onto the SkyCab and glide into Wynn Palace, you feel like royalty. The casino is spotless and the surroundings are pure luxury." It's clear that Wynn Palace has won over visitors looking for the ultimate upscale experience in Macau. Annual Visitor Numbers Comparison Table To put these destinations in perspective, here's a side-by-side look at the approximate annual visitor numbers for each of the top 10 casinos (latest available figures). This reflects the immense draw these resorts have as global attractions: (Note: Visitor numbers are approximate and refer to pre-2025 estimates; actual figures can fluctuate year by year. They include total resort visitors, not only casino patrons.) From the glittering skyline of Las Vegas to the cultural crossroads of Macau, these five casinos represent the pinnacle of what a gaming destination can offer. Each profile above illustrates that a great casino is not just about gambling - it's about the experience. Whether it's watching the Bellagio fountains dance to music, feeling the history in Monte Carlo's salons, enjoying a day at Sentosa before hitting the slots, or taking in Venetian Macao's over-the-top recreations of Italy, these casinos appeal to a broad spectrum of visitors. Gamblers will find top-notch tables and jackpots, tourists will find spectacles and attractions, and cultural travelers will find architecture, art, and stories that give each casino a distinct sense of place. In 2025, the world's top casinos are truly entertainment resorts that reflect their cities' character: the ambition of Singapore, the heritage of Monaco, the extravagance of Vegas, the innovation of Macau, and beyond. They've become bucket-list destinations in their own right. Whether you're an avid gamer looking for the next big thrill, a tourist seeking excitement and luxury, or a culture buff curious about the lore (and lure) of these famous halls, the casinos on this list promise an unforgettable journey. This story was produced by OLBG and reviewed and distributed by Stacker. © Stacker Media, LLC.
San Francisco Chronicle
6 hours ago
- San Francisco Chronicle
Rome gears up for Holy Year's monumental Catholic youth rally in scorching temperatures
ROME (AP) — Half a million young people are expected to pour into Rome next week for the biggest event of the 2025 Holy Year: a weeklong Jubilee celebration for young Catholics that will sorely test their tolerance for heat and the Eternal City's ability to provide public services, security and logistical support during its peak tourist season. Officials said Wednesday the highlight of the celebration is the Aug. 2-3 vigil service, outdoor overnight slumber party and Mass presided over by Pope Leo XIV, the first mass gathering for history's first American pope. It's being held on the same dusty field on the outskirts of Rome where St. John Paul II led the 2000 World Youth Day, an even larger gathering of some 2 million young Catholics in that millennial Jubilee year. With temperatures next weekend expected between 32C to 34C (90F to 93F), organizers have lined up five million bottles of water, 2,660 drinking water stations and 70 giant water cannons that are normally used for dust control during building demolitions to spritz the young pilgrims to try to keep them cool. After attending a week of events in Rome's center, they will begin arriving at the Tor Vergata field on Saturday afternoon and spend the night there before the morning Mass Sunday, with access in and out requiring a 5 kilometer hike at minimum from the nearest public transport hub. A massive security and logistical setup Italian and Vatican organizers on Wednesday outlined plans for the gathering, which Rome authorities said represented the biggest technological setup ever in Italy. Four thousand police and firefighters have been called up to provide security, with Spanish, French and Polish law enforcement agencies sending teams to help out, given the large number of pilgrims expected from those countries. Officials are closing the airspace over the Tor Vergata field to civilian aircraft and drones, and 122 surveillance cameras have been set up to keep watch on the proceedings. 'This is an event that because of its importance requires exceptional security measures,' Rome Prefect Lamberto Giannini told a Vatican press conference. 'We don't have any signs of negative attention to the event, but the international situation, the various tensions and the magnitude, significance and beauty of the event require us to be very careful.' Some 68% of the young people who registered to attend hail from European countries, though pilgrims from 146 countries are expected, said the Vatican's Jubilee chief, Archbishop Rino Fisichella. A Jubilee that resembles a World Youth Day The youth Jubilee comes at the halfway point in the Vatican's 2025 Holy Year, a once-every-quarter-century celebration of Catholicism that brings millions of pilgrims to Rome. Fisichella said 17 million pilgrims had attended Jubilee events so far in 2025, representing more than half the 32 million expected. The event has assumed many characteristics of a World Youth Day, the Catholic youth rally taking place every three years that was launched by John Paul and maintained by every pope since. Heat waves and the invariable health issues that accompany them have become an integral part of youth days, since they are always scheduled during summer when young people are typically on vacation. But such Catholic Woodstocks have also produced some of the most memorable papal moments. Many faithful still remember John Paul telling the youngsters at Tor Vergata in 2000 that they were 'sentinels of the morning' at the dawn of the third millennium, Pope Benedict XVI braving a violent storm in Madrid in 2011 to continue praying, and Pope Francis telling young people in Lisbon in 2023 that everyone -- 'todos, todos, todos' – is welcome in the Catholic Church. The yearlong Jubilee, which was preceded by two years of intense construction projects around Rome, has added even more strain on Rome's public services beyond the normal tourist high season. To spare the congested city center, some 20,000 people will be housed on the grounds of Rome's old convention center on the city's outskirts, while another 40,000 will be housed in some of the 429-plus schools and 360 parishes around Rome that have offered to take them in. In addition to law enforcement, 3,000 civil protection volunteers, 500 Vatican volunteers and 4,300 Jubilee 'stewards' will be on hand to shepherd the young people around. A medevac helicopter, 43 ambulances, and 10 mobile health positions will be at the Tor Vergata field in case pilgrims fall ill. Rome's notoriously insufficient public transport system is being reinforced to provide nearly around-the-clock service and sanitation workers are clocking overtime to the tune of 4,600 shifts. There will be 2,760 portable toilets, plus 158 for disabled people, spread over the event space of 52 hectares (128 acres), officials said. ___
