Fireworks, warplanes and axes: How France celebrates Bastille Day
France is celebrating its biggest holiday Monday with 7,000 people marching, on horseback or riding armored vehicles along the cobblestones of the Champs-Elysees, the most iconic avenue in Paris. And there are plans for partying and pageantry around the country.
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Wall Street Journal
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The Tour de France's Inescapable Badge of Honor
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Forbes
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Ranked: The World's Most Visited Countries In 2024
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From the timeless romance of Paris to the lavender fields of Provence , first-time visitors are spellbound by its sublime art, ornamental architecture, and rich history—whether wandering through Versailles' gilded halls or gazing up at the Gothic majesty of Notre-Dame . For gastronomes, France is a soul-stirring pilgrimage. Regional delicacies seduce at every charming corner: think buttery croissants in a tucked-away Parisian patisserie, briny oysters fresh from the Atlantic coast, and melt-in-your-mouth Brie de Meaux aged in stone-walled cellars—where Châteauneuf-du-Pape flows. Along the glittering Côte d'Azur , Mediterranean glamour meets Riviera chic, while Alsace enchants with storybook half-timbered villages—and for adventurers, the Alps promise world-class skiing. Forbes The World's Best River Cruises 2025, According To Experts By Lewis Nunn View of the city from Park Guell in Barcelona, Spain with moving clouds. getty From the Moorish palaces of Andalucía to the modernist masterpieces of Barcelona, Spain unfolds like an open-air museum—think sweeping olive groves, rugged mountains, and an endless golden coastline—whether it's the Balearic Islands' crystal-clear coves or the dramatic cliffs of Galicia . In Madrid, you'll wander through grand boulevards and world-class galleries, then settle in for tapas and vermouth at a cozy taberna . Barcelona, however, sparkles with Gaudí's whimsical architecture and the buzz of beachside nightlife. Further south, Granada and Seville seduce with flamenco echoes through lantern-lit courtyards and orange blossoms perfuming the air. Food is practically a religion here—succulent jamón ibérico, sizzling patatas bravas, and ocean-fresh seafood paellas steal the spotlight—paired with bold Rioja wines or crisp albariños. And when it comes to celebration, few places rival Spain: with festivals like La Tomatina and Las Fallas bursting with fiery energy and chaos—a reminder that Spain celebrates life with gusto. Buildings in Manhattan, New York getty Spanning coast to coast, the United States dazzles with contrasts—where drive-thru diners and Michelin-star restaurants, rodeos and Broadway shows, all coexist in this 50-state tapestry. In New York City , towering skyscrapers and world-class museums meet iconic neighborhoods—from hipster Brooklyn to historic Harlem. The West Coast , however, charms with California's sun-soaked beaches, the tech buzz of Silicon Valley, and the vintage cinema glamour of Los Angeles. For nature lovers, the U.S. is a playground too —hike through misty forests in the Pacific Northwest, marvel at the Grand Canyon's prehistoric vastness, or chase geysers in Yellowstone. Meanwhile, the South pulses with soul-stirring music—from Nashville's honky-tonks to New Orleans' jazz-filled streets. Forbes The Ultimate Guide To Croatia Island Hopping By Lewis Nunn Venice Grand Canal getty From the sun-drenched cliffs of the Amalfi Coast to the rolling vineyards of Tuscany and the snow-cloaked Dolomites, Italy is a timeless seduction—where art, history, cuisine, and romance all intertwine. In Rome, ancient ruins meet ornate Baroque fountains as you stroll from the Colosseum to the Vatican. Meanwhile, Venice, with its misty canals and fading palazzi, floats in a dreamlike haze of nostalgia and elegance. Head north to Milan and you'll get addicted to its modernity and haute couture, while Florence stuns with Renaissance grandeur and world-class galleries. Foodies? Sip velvety Barolo in the rolling hills of Piemonte, twirl strands of handmade pasta in Bologna, and sample creamy artisan gelato on a cobbled piazza in Sicily. 5. Turkey Number of Tourists in 2024: 52.6 million Hot Air Balloons at Love Valley in Cappadocia getty Straddling Europe and Asia, Turkey is a country of compelling contrasts—where grueling mountain hikes through the Kaçkar range meet indulgent hammam rituals steeped in centuries of tradition. In Istanbul , East meets West as you wander through the grandeur of the Hagia Sophia, get lost in the labyrinthine Grand Bazaar, or watch the sunset over the Bosphorus with a cup of çay in hand. Head deeper into Anatolia and uncover the beauty of Cappadocia —where fairy chimneys and hot air balloons paint a dreamlike skyline. History buffs, however, will marvel at Ephesus , a remarkably preserved Greco-Roman city, and the ancient ruins of Troy. Meanwhile, along the turquoise coast, jewels like Antalya and Bodrum offer dazzling beaches and lively harbors. But it's not just the sights— Turkey is famed for its hospitality. Feast on sizzling kebabs, flaky baklava, and freshly baked simit from street vendors—or sip thick Turkish coffee as locals share stories. Read More: Forbes Is This The World's Most Expensive Cruise? By Lewis Nunn 6. Mexico Number of Tourists in 2024: 45 million San Miguel de Allende, Mexico getty From ancient Aztec ruins to the colonial charm of Oaxaca, Mexico grabs you by the senses and doesn't let go. Step into history at Chichén Itzá, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, or explore the painted facades and cobblestone alleys of San Miguel de Allende. Nature lovers, however, can snorkel in the crystalline waters of Cozumel, hike through the copper-colored canyons of Chihuahua, or witness bioluminescent plankton sparkling along the shores of Holbox Island. Meanwhile, beachgoers and sun-chasers find their paradise in the palm-fringed sands of Tulum and the surf-washed coves of Puerto Escondido. And then there's the food—savor street tacos fresh off the grill and sip smoky mezcal under a velvet starry sky. 7. Hong Kong Number of Tourists in 2024: 44.5 million Junk boat crossing Hong Kong harbor. getty Hong Kong —while not an official country (rather, a Special Administrative Region )—deserves a spotlight. Here, skyscrapers rise shoulder to shoulder with ancient temples, and neon-lit streets hum with life around the clock. Ride the iconic Star Ferry across Victoria Harbour for panoramic views of its soaring skyline, or ascend to Victoria Peak for glorious sunsets. Shopping here is legendary, too— you can explore luxury malls in Central or haggle for hidden treasures in the markets of Mong Kok. Foodies, meanwhile, are spoiled for choice: sip tea in historic dim sum teahouses, munch on egg waffles from street vendors, or sample Michelin-starred street bites at restaurants like Tim Ho Wan . Be sure to explore Hong Kong's spiritual side too: pay a visit to the Big Buddha on Lantau Island and stroll through the incense-filled halls of Man Mo Temple. Nature lovers, however, can hike the Dragon's Back trail for stunning coastal views or lounge on the beaches of Sai Kung. Whether you're craving high fashion, ancient rituals, buzzing nightlife, or some of the world's best noodles— Hong Kong has it all. Read More: Forbes How To Spend The Perfect Weekend In The Lake District By Lewis Nunn 8. United Kingdom Number of Tourists in 2024: 41.2 million Castle Combe in Wiltshire, England in the Autumn getty From the royal fanfare of London to the Celtic legends of Scotland and the poetic soul of Welsh valleys, the United Kingdom brims with centuries-old heritage, rolling countryside, and buzzing megacities. Start in London , England's bustling capital, where icons like Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge, and the British Museum await—while sipping cocktails in sky-high bars or surfing through Borough Market. Beyond the capital, however, amble through fairytale villages of the Cotswolds or hike the dramatic peaks of Scotland's Highlands . Explore historic gems like York and Edinburgh, where cobbled lanes lead to ancient castles and cozy fireside pubs—meanwhile, literature lovers can trace Shakespeare's footsteps in Stratford-upon-Avon or explore Oxford's colleges where great minds from Tolkien to Hawking once roamed. Wales tempts with rugged coastlines and windswept castles, and Northern Ireland stuns with the surreal basalt columns of Giant's Causeway. And let's not forget English culinary treats—think buttery scones in countryside tearooms or fish and chips by the breezy seaside in Cornwall. 9. Greece Number of Tourists in 2024: 40.7 million Church in Oia (Santorini, Greece). getty From the whitewashed villages of Santorini to the ancient ruins of Athens, Greece is a treasure trove for travelers drawn to its rich Mediterranean culture and storied past. Start your journey in its capital, Athens , where the Acropolis towers above the city—and dive into street markets bursting with pungent herbs, handwoven textiles, and beautiful ceramics—before savouring souvlaki in a tucked-away taverna. Island-hopping is essential. The Cyclades are famed for postcard-perfect sunsets—while Crete offers rugged gorges and myth-laden palaces. For a quieter escape, explore the Ionian islands with their emerald waters and Venetian flair. History lovers, however, will be captivated by Delphi's ancient oracle or the monasteries of Meteora—sitting high on otherworldly rock formations. Greece also seduces with its rhythm—long lunches under vine-covered pergolas and traditional music drifting through sunlit village squares. Whether you're hiking the legendary slopes of Mount Olympus or sipping iced coffee by the Aegean, Greece beckons an alphabet of travelers—with warmth, wonder, and timeless beauty. Read More: Forbes The Ultimate Guide To South Africa Cruises By Lewis Nunn 10. Japan Number of Tourists in 2024: 36.9 million Fujiyoshida, Japan at Chureito Pagoda and Mt. Fuji in the spring with cherry blossoms. getty From the neon-lit towers of Tokyo to soaking in an onsen beneath snow-dusted peaks, Japan is a nation where centuries-old traditions brush seamlessly against striking, cutting-edge innovation. Start in its capital, Tokyo —where skyscrapers glow above sushi counters and bullet trains whisk you past springtime cherry blossoms. Kyoto , meanwhile, whispers of a quieter Japan—where you can wander through bamboo groves in Arashiyama, sip matcha in a serene teahouse, and catch the flicker of a geisha slipping down lantern-lit alleys. Nature lovers, however, will adore Hokkaido —where rolling lavender fields meet powdery slopes—while Nara offers the perfect opportunity to meet roaming deer under ancient shrines. Whether you're drawn by samurai lore, anime culture, or Zen gardens galore, Japan is a miso soup bowl of discovery. Read More: Forbes The World's Best River Cruises 2025, According To Experts By Lewis Nunn Forbes How To Spend The Perfect Weekend In Guernsey By Lewis Nunn Forbes The Ultimate Guide To Croatia Island Hopping By Lewis Nunn Forbes Is This The World's Most Expensive Cruise? 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Yahoo
a day ago
- Yahoo
A test of the mind and body: The story behind AP's stage to stage coverage of the Tour De France
The Tour de France is not only one of the biggest sports races in the world, it's also a test of the mind and body. On this episode of The Story Behind the AP Story, correspondent Gethin Coolbaugh explains how the race works, as well as some iconic moments. On the ground, AP photographers Thibault Camus and Mosa'ab El Shamy share the energy and mood at this year's race. Gethin Coolbaugh, correspondent: Well, the Tour de France is the pinnacle of global cycling. This year is the 112th edition of the men's race that was first held in 1903. Haya Panjwani, host: This three-week-long race will bring over 180 riders together for 2,000 miles. COOLBAUGH: That's the equivalent of riding from Manhattan to about Western Nevada, nearly California. PANJWANI: Some consider the Tour de France the world's most difficult cycling race. I'm Haya Panjwani. On this episode of The Story Behind the AP Story, we're talking about the Tour De France. We'll hear from correspondent Gethin Coolbaugh. Also on the ground photographing the Tour de France, AP photographers, Thibault Camus and Mosa'ab El Shamy. PANJWANI: This race, as Gethin explains, is a test of the mind and body. COOLBAUGH: It's the treacherous terrain that makes this race one of the most challenging in the world and I would say among any sport in any athletic feat. Cycling 2,000 plus miles would be difficult on any surface, but it isn't comprised of only flat surfaces. The course fluctuates from flat surfaces to hills to mountains. The estimated change in elevation this year is about 52,000 meters. That's nearly 17,000 feet or 32 miles. That means that each section poses its own challenges, not just in terms of physical terrain, but also changes in oxygen levels. This year's route runs through 11 regions and 34 departments of France, beginning in Lille in the north and it ends in Paris. It winds all through the country, comprising of 21 stages. The 21 stages are seven flat stages, six hilly stages, six mountain stages, and five mountain finishes. That includes two time trials, which riders start in intervals and their times are recorded individually. The race runs from July 5th through July 27th. The first week is comprised mostly of flat terrain and progresses to a lot of climbing in the last 10 stages. The final week has three mountaintop finishes at the Mont Ventoux, which features the highest point of this year's race at just over 2,300 meters. PANJWANI: Mosa'ab has been following this route. It's his first tour de France. Mosa'ab El Shamy, AP photographer: It's been very exciting. Been a lot of diversity in terms of the places we've covered. It's a really thrilling experience for me. It's obviously a very festive occasion. The mood is very joyous. We pass through big and big cities and small towns and people are out. You can tell they've been waiting. They've been standing for a very long time, waiting for the racers. Everyone's really excited. You can tell that some places, tour is passing for the first time, so it's very special for those towns and there's a lot of decorations, there's lots of flags, people on top of their cars or camper vans and they're constantly waving to not just the cyclists but to the cars and to the photographers and to the caravan, so, it feels like a very long party, would you say? PANJWANI: Thibault is with Mossab, it's his fifth Tour de France. Thibault Camus, AP photographer: It's a tradition that every year, many person come on the side of the road race to see the cyclists. Sometimes they come maybe three days before the race with camping cars and constantly along the race are some people waving, as I said, picnic or something like this. And some of them follow the race all along the tours. EL SHAMY: And it's a French race, so obviously they're very excited about French races. They have banners and they cheer on the French racers, even though the top, you know, two racers are not French, but when French racers pass, there's extra energy, there is extra support. Whenever one of them collects, you now, one of the jerseys at the end of the, at the end of day, like Thibault said, it's like seeped in tradition. And also there is lots of nationalist mood that's dominating the race. PANJWANI: The further the race progresses, the more renowned moments happen. CAMUS: Iconic moments often happen during mountain stages because it's getting harder and harder for the cyclists. COOLBAUGH: The battle between Jacques Anquetil and Ramon Poulidor in 1964, where Anquetil won for a record fifth time. There was the tragic collapse and death of British cyclist Tom Simpson in 1967. The badger Bernard Hinault, his dominant five-title run between 1978 and 1985. In 1989, Greg LeMond overcame a 50 second final day deficit to claim his famous 8-second victory. Miguel Indurain's five straight wins from 1991 to 1995. There was Chris Froome's crash in 2016 where he ran up the mountain in his cycling shoes. Mark Cavendish breaking and surpassing five-time winner Eddy Merckx's record of 34 stage wins from the highs of the highs to the low of the lows, this race has featured so much, so much diversity. CAMUS: What affects me the most during the Tour de France is the energy that we talk about around the race on the roadside. There's so many people, it's sometimes crazy. And especially during the mountain stages where all the people are on the roads and the cyclists must, you know, open a way to reach the top of the climb. So that's very special. And sometimes people run after the cyclist by miracle, nothing happened. When you're on the bike and you see all those people and all the bikers, in the middle of that, it's very special. PANJWANI: To get photos of those bikers, Thibaut and Mosa'ab, ride on a motorcycle with their cameras in hand. EL SHAMY: We have a biker, an experienced person who knows the roads very well, he knows the rules, he is constantly getting briefed and communicated to by the race management. We alternate, one of us gets on the back of the bike one day with our cameras and our helmets. CAMUS: And when we're on the bike, we have to make pictures of the peloton, of the riders, but also we have a kind of postcard that means to put the peloton and the racers into the landscape here, which is everyday different and sometimes very beautiful. So that's a double challenge because we have be here for the action. We have two jobs when we are on the bike. PANJWANI: Of course, no mention of the Tour de France is complete without hearing a name most sports fans recognize - Lance Armstrong. COOLBAUGH: Lance's story was everything that you would ask for in an American sports hero. He overcame adversity, being diagnosed in 1996 with testicular cancer that spread throughout his body. He underwent treatment and surgery and was declared cancer-free in 1997. He founded the Livestrong Foundation. COOLBAUGH: He returned to cycling in '98 and went on his record run only for it all to come crashing down in 2012 when a U.S. anti-doping agency investigation concluded he had used performance-enhancing drugs throughout his career. They called it 'the most sophisticated, professionalized, and successful doping program that sport has ever seen.' He was subsequently stripped of all seven tour titles, his Olympic bronze medal, and was banned from cycling for life. Armstrong denied the accusations early on. But in 2013, in an Oprah Winfrey interview, admitted that he had used a number of PEDs and engaged in blood doping. It remains an incredible story of triumph and tragedy. CAMUS: There's many things to see, many things that will allow us to be creative. I mean, there's no end to this. So it's very good to be on this road and to be as much as we can creative, because we have this opportunity with AP to be creative. EL SHAMY: I think that Tour de France is a very special race to cover. It's the biggest in the world. It's kind of an adventure around France to cover it for AP. It is a really fun experience to go through. PANJWANI: This has been the story behind the AP story. I'm your host, Haya Panjwani. The executive producer is Ron Vample. Special thanks to sports freelancer, Gethin Coolbaugh, and AP photographers, Mosa'ab El Shamy and Thibault Camus for their contributions. For more on the AP's coverage of the Tour de France, visit
