Where to ‘wild swim' in the U.K.
What it's like to be on the 9-month cruise around the world
January 12, 2024
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Yahoo
35 minutes ago
- Yahoo
Passenger flagged by TSA after ‘swamp crotch' sets off alarm — and it's happening to others, too
It's the ire of flyers who profusely perspire. Nearly no one enjoys getting stopped by Transportation Security Administration (TSA) authorities at the airport. But when checkpoint alarm bells begin blaring around a traveler's groin, as happened to one befuddled passenger not long ago, there is a chance it's due to extreme wetness in their pants, insiders say. 'I flew for the first time in 15 years this week, and both airports flagged my crotch at the arms up scanner,' a confused tripper confessed on Reddit recently. The wet wanderluster described herself as a 'midsized adult woman (169 lbs, 5-foot-8),' wearing bike shorts and normal underwear. The skyway siren assured social media readers that her private parts are neither pierced nor outfitted with medical devices. She claimed her pockets were totally empty. 'I don't care about the pat down, they were polite and professional and it doesn't bother me,' said the baffled belle, 'but I'm wondering what did it.' Internet know-it-alls say it's crotch sweat — and they're likely right. 'Sweat, feminine products (liners, pads, depends) could be anything but those seem to be culprits,' a Reddit commenter wrote. 'Last time I flew out of my home airport of Tampa, I got searched too,' admitted an equally clammy jet-setter. 'The [security] guard said something unnerving like 'swamp rot' or 'swamp crotch' or something similarly embarrassing.' It's a bodily function that can wrongfully trigger red flags, per TSA expert Shawna Malvini Redden. 'Perspiration is probably the weirdest thing that can set off the scanners,' Malvini Redden recently explained to Reader's Digest. 'It has to do with millimeter wave technology and how the waves bounce off water.' The insider added that because the machines often generate false alarms set off due to sweat, some countries, including France and Germany, have banned the scanners all together. But massive moisture isn't the only reason the TSA technology might mistake one's undercarriage for a dangerous weapon. It's been alleged that frequent flyers boasting larger features, such as a bootylicious behind, can expect to be stopped and searched before getting the green light to board a plane. 'On-person screening technology effectively screens diverse populations of travelers every day,' Representatives for TSA previously told The Post, adding that their devices and screening algorithms are trained to recognize body composition. Any unexpected abnormalities, including excess sweat, could potentially prompt an alert, they said.
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Yahoo
Canada Day travel: Canadians staying local for the long weekend amid Canada-U.S. tensions
With Canada Day just around the corner, amid growing tension with the U.S., Canadian travellers are looking closer to home for their long weekend vacation. According to Kayak, there's been a 25 per cent spike in domestic flight searches, compared to last year. But aside from destinations Canadians need to fly to, Canadian road trips are on people's minds. Kayak found that 55 per cent of rental car searches are now domestic, compared to international car rental searches that were more popular last year (International car rentals make up 52 per cent of searches in 2024, according to Kayak). Leading up to the weekend, leaving a little bit earlier for your vacation can be beneficial for saving on flights, with average domestic airfare being the lowest on June 25. When you are flying, flights that take off between 5:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. have a 15 to 18 per cent chance of being delayed, versus 42 per cent for evening flights, according to Kayak. If you're looking to rent a car, Kayak has found that Toronto, Vancouver and Calgary are the cheapest pickup location options in Canada According to Kayak, Winnipeg has seen a 48 per cent increase in search interest on the site, compared to Canada Day interest in 2024. The city's exchange district is a great place to walk, and head into local restaurants and shops. There are also a number of different walking tours for the area. Another option is The Forks, a great place to bike, visit museums, do some shopping or have a drink at The Common. For museum lovers, the Canadian Museum for Human Rights is a great option, with powerful storytelling from exhibits including one on Canada's LGBTQ+ history, and another on Indigenous women in Canada. If relaxation is more your speed, Thermea Spa Village Winnipeg is where you want to go, which also has a number of interesting "Village Rituals," along with other massage and body care options. And don't forget about Assiniboine Park Zoo, with more than 80 acres to explore. Kayak found that there has been a 28 per cent increase in search interest for Canada Day weekend trips to Vancouver, compared to last year. The British Columbia destination is the perfect place to get a mix of city experiences, while being close to great moments out in nature. Head to the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park in North Vancouver for a unique adventure, from walking on the suspension bridge or experiencing the cliff walk, to taking in the Living Forest exhibit. There are activities for the whole family. For shopping lovers, Robson Street is a great stop, along with Yaletown. Stanley Park is always a must-stop in the city, with several walking trails, including the Seawall, the world's longest uninterrupted waterfront path at 28 kilometres. It's also the home of Canada's largest aquarium, with more than 65,000 animals. With Kayak seeing a 10 per cent increase in search interest for Canada Day travel to this Quebec city, Montreal never disappoints. Often compared to a European city, Montreal's unique style is a Canadian delight. Boasting some of the best food in the country, each neighbourhood has its own set of culinary delights. But a must is always Montreal-style bagels, a sweeter and chewier version than what you get in other places. St-Viateur and Fairmount Bagel are popular choices. Food lovers can also make a stop at the Atwater market, located in a beautiful art deco building. To get a great view of the city, walk up to the viewpoint at Mount Royal Park, or to get that more European vibe, wander the streets of Old Montreal. A notable attraction is Olympic Stadium from the 1976 summer games, a captivating piece of architecture, also located by the Montreal Biodome and Botanical Garden.
Forbes
2 hours ago
- Forbes
Best Hotels In Dublin 2025
R ich in literary history and filled lively pubs, Dublin is one of the most popular cities to visit in Europe. It's home to many fabulous hotels that can match any budget and travel style. The best hotels in Dublin range from historic grand dames to charming boutique hotels to value-friendly hot spots—and nearly every single one offers a fantastic afternoon tea. To choose from Dublin's finest stays, I used my own personal experience and tapped Lydia Rumberger, an Ireland specialist at Audley Travel, for insights. Our top overall pick is the superbly located The Westbury, while The Merrion Hotel is the city's best luxury stay. Boutique lovers will appreciate The Wilder Townhouse, while art and design lovers will want to check in to The Fitzwilliam Hotel and The Leinster. Below, the best hotels in Dublin in 2025. Lobby at The Westbury. The Westbury Who Will Love It: Stylish travelers who want a central location close to the heart of the action All-Star Amenities: Four dining venues; an exercise suite; Aromatherapy Associates toiletries; chauffeur service What Not To Miss: Afternoon tea is a beloved local affair Location: Dublin 2 Just off shopping-heavy Grafton Street and close to both Trinity College and St. Stephen's Green, The Westbury offers a superb location right in the heart of Dublin's action. Guest rooms here feel both luxurious and modern, and there's an overall unfussy atmosphere (locals can often be spotted enjoying the afternoon tea), which is immediately noticeable in the property's lively, colorful lobby. The service is meticulous but non-obtrusive; every guest's name is memorized at check-in, and you can expect to be greeted by staff as an old friend. While the hotel doesn't have a spa, pool or gym (there is, however, an exercise suite), the effort put into its four dining outlets more than makes up for it. The all-day bistro Balfes, with its cozy outdoor terrace, is a prime people-watching perch, and the 1930s-style cocktail bar The Sidecar is ideal for a pre-dinner drink or two. Junior suite at The Merrion Hotel. The Merrion Hotel Who Will Love It: Luxury seekers; foodies All-Star Amenities: Manicured gardens; a world-class art collection; expansive wellness offerings; a variety of culinary concepts What Not To Miss: A special meal at Patrick Guilbaud, Dublin's first two-starred Michelin restaurant Location: Georgian Dublin This 142-room luxury property in the heart of Dublin's Georgian district is a collection of four townhouses dressed up with genteel interiors that deliver a historic and refined atmosphere. Its interior gardens and courtyards provide a lovely escape from the city—as does its tranquil spa—and the property's central location puts guests within easy walking distance of various Dublin landmarks such as St. Stephen's Green and the National Gallery. When it comes to its culinary offerings, no hotel in Dublin (or maybe even Ireland) can compare: The Merrion Hotel is home to the country's first two-starred Michelin restaurant, Patrick Guilbaud. More casual meals await at the Cellar Bar; while modern Irish fare can be savored at the Garden Room. The hotel is also known for its fabled afternoon tea, during which pastries served are modeled after the various artworks found throughout the property. Best Historic Hotel In Dublin: The Shelbourne, Autograph Collection Suite at The Shelbourne, Autograph Collection. The Shelbourne, Autograph Collection The Shelbourne, Autograph Collection Who Will Love It: History buffs; those seeking a classic luxury experience All-Star Amenities: 60-foot pool; six different dining venues What Not To Miss: The massive gym, likely the best gym in Dublin Location: St. Stephen's Green For history buffs, The Shelbourne, built in 1824, is Dublin's most historic stay. The hotel hosted one of the most important events in the country's history—the drafting of the Irish Free State Constitution in 1922. Over the years, it's also been the hotel of choice for countless notable figures, from English novelist William Thackeray to former First Lady Michelle Obama. Today, The Shelbourne is the largest five-star hotel in the Irish capital, with 265 rooms (19 of them suites), all of which are classically luxurious. The laundry list of public spaces found here run the gamut, from the opulent Lord Mayor's Lounge (famous for afternoon tea) to the guest-exclusive 1824 bar (a handsome destination for a nightcap) to the sumptuous spa, a hideaway that might make you forget you're in the heart of a historic European city. Best Value Hotel In Dublin: The Dean The Punkbunk room at The Dean. Courtesy of The Dean The Dean Who Will Love It: Hip travelers who prefer a bustling atmosphere All-Star Amenities: Modern gym; pool and sauna; live music at the lobby bar What Not To Miss: Cocktails and views at Sophie's, the rooftop bar and restaurant Location: Dublin 2 The Dean has gained a reputation for its party atmosphere, and it doesn't come undeserved: Sophie's, the property's rooftop restaurant, and The Dean Bar, found in the hotel's lobby, are often lively with guests—both local and visiting. The bar scene here can run late into the night, so if you're hoping to get an early night's rest, this trendy hotel may not be the best choice for you. But for the price, it offers excellent value: Rooms can regularly be found in the $200 range, and all come with modern amenities like giant beds, Marshall amps, Samsung Smart TVs and mini SMEG fridges. There's also a small outdoor pool with an adjacent sauna for guests to use, as well as a modern gym. If space isn't an issue, the Modpod rooms are great for solo travelers or couples who don't mind getting extra close. Best Boutique Hotel In Dublin: The Wilder Townhouse Garden Room at The Wilder Townhouse. Courtesy of The Wilder Townhouse The Wilder Townhouse Who Will Love It: Couples and solo travelers who value an intimate setting and quirky design All-Star Amenities: Eco-friendly Hopal bath products; an impressive gin collection What Not To Miss: The full Irish breakfast in the Garden Room Location: Dublin 2 Forty-two rooms and suites can be found within The Wilder Townhouse, a red-brick Victorian-era building in fashionable Dublin 2, just a five-minute stroll from St. Stephen's Green. While this intimate boutique hotel is definitely on the snug side (a spa or a full-service restaurant won't be found here), it offers character and quirkiness in spades: Guests can expect to find a ceramic pig sitting on their fireplace, a gorgeous floral-print couch in their living quarters, an antique vanity table next to the bed and a beguiling standalone soaking tub in each room. 'It's a beautiful boutique property in more of residential area of the city,' says Rumberger of the hotel, which is open to guests only. Its firm entry requirements help maintain its discreet atmosphere. Best Hotel For Couples In Dublin: Number 31 Guest room at Number 31. Courtesy of Number 31 Number 31 Who Will Love It: Couples looking for a cozy, intimate escape All-Star Amenities: The honor bar-style lounge; a private garden What Not To Miss: The delicious breakfast spread that's consistently ranked among the best in Dublin Location: Georgian Dublin From the second guests receive their welcome coffee and biscuits, it's clear that hospitality is a priority at Number 31. This 21-key hotel—a hidden gem on the outskirts of the city center—may not offer much in terms of amenities (no gym, spa or restaurant), but it provides a level of intimacy that continues to resonate. From individually decorated rooms to its legendary freshly prepared breakfast, a stay here is curated with thoughtfulness and warmth. Guest rooms are spread between a gorgeous Georgian townhouse and modernist mews that are connected by a beautiful private garden; townhouse rooms feature grand historic details like intricate tile work and elaborate stucco moldings. Couples in particular will feel as if they're in their own private hideaway, where no request is too large. Best Hotel For Families In Dublin: The Grafton Hotel Family Room at The Grafton. Andrew Bradley Photography The Grafton Hotel Who Will Love It: Families who want a central, convenient location All-Star Amenities: Four different dining venues; various sustainability efforts (including beehives on the rooftop) What Not To Miss: The Family Rooms (which can sleep up to six) are the best in Dublin Location: Dublin 2 Located near several major Dublin attractions, The Grafton is all about convenience. The modern, glitzy design of its 128 rooms—plus its collection of lively dining venues and bars—might attract adult groups and couples, but its thoughtful amenities make it an ideal stay for families, too. The Family Rooms here are efficiently organized so they can accommodate either four or six people, and all of them feature the same vibrant and colorful style found in other room categories. The Grafton also offers a wide number of packages with traveling families in mind, the most popular of which is the Dublin Zoo package, which comes with a family pass to the zoo. Various other seasonal family-friendly promotions typically include treats and gifts for kids as well as the occasional complimentary cocktail for parents. Best Hotel In Dublin For Design Lovers: The Fitzwilliam Hotel Guest room at The Fitzwilliam Hotel. The Fitzwilliam Hotel The Fitzwilliam Hotel Who Will Love It: Design lovers seeking a stylish stay All-Star Amenities: Murdock toiletries; Michelin-starred dining at Glovers Alley What Not To Miss: The views of St. Stephens Green Location: Dublin 2 With beautifully designed rooms replete with vibrant hues, bold patterns and inviting fabrics, The Fitzwilliam Hotel has gained a loyal following—Beyoncé once booked out the property for herself and her entourage for a full week. It also happens to be Rumberger's top recommendation in Dublin thanks to its excellent location. 'It's an oasis from the hustle and bustle thanks to the private courtyard in its center,' she says. 'At the same time, it's only a moments' walk to the heart of the city.' Guests here can expect contemporary design at every turn, from Italian furniture to limestone bathtubs. Not to be missed is a meal at Michelin-starred Glover's Alley (named for the glove makers who once ran businesses in the neighborhood), which features an expectedly stylish dining room bathed in rosy pink. Best Hotel In Dublin For Art Lovers: The Leinster The Rico Suite at The Leinster. Courtesy of The Leinster The Leinster Who Will Love It: Culture seekers looking to wine, dine and gallery hop All-Star Amenities: Steam room and sauna; Brooks & Co bathroom amenities; an impressive art collection What Not To Miss: The Collins Club for cocktails and live music Location: Georgian Dublin With its gallery-worthy art collection and Ireland's first restaurant by acclaimed French chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, it's not surprising that The Leinster draws a creative crowd. The 55-room boutique property, which opened on Merrion Square last spring, is conveniently situated just steps away from Dublin's best art galleries and museums, including the National Gallery. The hotel also features an impeccably curated collection of 300 original artworks, including a piece by Damien Hirst behind the concierge desk. Rooms here feel like an extension of the exhibition, with botanical-themed paintings and a mix of eye-catching patterns and materials. When you're done perusing, the rooftop restaurant, which features Jean-Georges' take on Irish classics with the a view of Georgian Dublin, is the place to be. Best Hotel In Dublin For Spa And Wellness: Anantara The Marker Dublin Spa pool at The Anantara Marker. Courtesy of The Anantara Marker Anantara The Marker Dublin Who Will Love It: Wellness lovers who appreciate holistic Thai-inspired spa treatments All-Star Amenities: Rooftop lounge with fantastic views; a 75-foot long pool; three food and drink concepts What Not To Miss: Yoga on the rooftop Location: Docklands Thai-based hotel brand Anantara's exciting expansion into Europe includes this modern 187-room hotel in Dublin's Docklands district—known as the city's tech hub. Bedrooms are sleek and service is friendly, but the stars of the show are the wellness offerings, all inspired by holistic Thai healing. Unique services include facials that use fermented black tea to smooth the skin as well as the Thai Qi massage, a rubdown that stretches and soothes the muscle with an herbal compress. Beyond pampering services, the hotel also offers exhilarating wild swimming excursions in various picturesque waters near Dublin. Why Trust Forbes Vetted The Forbes Vetted travel team has researched, written and published dozens of hotel guides featuring cities across the globe. The travel section is managed by senior travel editor, Astrid Taran, a 7-year industry veteran who's visited over 40 countries, including multiple trips to Ireland and Dublin. She most recently stayed at The Dean in spring 2024. This story was edited by deputy editor Jane Sung, who oversees the travel vertical. For this story, Taran spoke with Lydia Rumberger, an Ireland specialist at Audley Travel. Rumberger shared insights on the best Dublin neighborhoods to stay in, as well as her own personal hotel recommendations. How We Chose The Best Hotels In Dublin We selected the top contenders based on personal stays as well as extensive research. For this story, Taran spent hours combing through reviews on TripAdvisor, hotel websites and more. We included options for a wide variety of travel styles, including family-friendly properties and more intimate, adult-oriented boutiques. We also included properties across a wide variety of different neighborhoods and price ranges. More Travel Stories
