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Scottish Sun
07-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
I tried the new Race Across the World The Experience – fans of the BBC TV show will love it
WHO doesn't want to Race Across the World like they do in the TV series? To ditch the 9-5 to go on an epic quest and see incredible destinations along the way? But let's face facts, most of us can't take months out of our lives to do that. So I tried out the best next thing, the new Race Across the World The Experience - and fans of the show (just like me) will love it. 5 I recruited my friends to play Race Across the World The Experience Credit: Alice Penwill 5 We ventured around London solving puzzles and brain teasers Credit: Alice Penwill On one of the hottest weekends of the year, myself and a team of three willing friends, met at the game's starting point: London Liverpool Street. As a fan of the BBC series Race Across the World that sees contestants racing across multiple countries without using flights or smartphones for a huge cash prize, I was desperate to try out the UK version that launched this spring in both London and Manchester. Just like the series, the experience is a race against the clock to get from one checkpoint to the next. But unlike the show, you get there by solving lots of puzzles, which are sent through WhatsApp - which is very against the rules of the show, but essential for the experience. To begin, I simply typed 'ready' into my screen and despite having no idea what to expect, sent the message, and the experience began. The first stop was a cafe where I told the man behind the counter I was 'with the race', and he handed over very first task, which was one of the few physical puzzles. It was very maths-heavy, so I wasn't off to a great start and had to take a step back while my friends took over. The answer led us to the very first checkpoint, where the clock began to tick. There are three legs throughout, with options to take different routes along the way varying in complexity and cost. Along the way you have to solve riddles that will guide you to the checkpoint, and keep an eye out because the answers are simple but easy to miss, like a name on an engraving or plaque. I went on my first Disney cruise with classy champagne bars, watercoasters and West End-style shows 5 There are some physical puzzles around London too Credit: Alice Penwill WhatsApp is crucial as you text the answers throughout to confirm you're in the correct location and not aimlessly wandering about. If you don't know the area around Liverpool Street very well, the experience is still very doable as long as you pay attention to what you see. Just like in the TV series, you need 'money' to continue. Each route you choose takes cash out of your budget which initially is £30. To top this up you'll have to 'work', although there's no pulling pints in a London pub - instead, this is done is by solving tricky brain teasers. On the weekend we did the race, it happened to be one of the hottest weekends of the year but you do get breaks and plenty of time to enjoy them too. After reaching each checkpoint, the clock stops to give your team an optional break and at each is a venue where you get an exclusive discount off drinks and snacks. My team and I stopped in at one of the pubs to enjoy a cold drink and some much-needed shade. 5 All the routes cost money which you can top up by doing 'work' tasks Credit: Alice Penwill If you are a large group, you can be split into teams to play against each other with different start locations, but will end in the same place. If you choose to play as a whole team instead, you will be put against other teams with similar times to you. At each leg the game will update you on how you do in comparison, and it does a lot to stir the competitive spirit - by the end, my team and I had set ourselves a fast pace in order to come out on top. At the very end, we got our results and were pretty chuffed to find ourselves at the top of our leader board, and in the top 17 per cent of overall racers. The race can take up to three hours which doesn't include breaks. We completed the experience in just under two hours, but with our breaks, were out around three and a half. The website says that you can play the game multiple times, as there are route variations - but these aren't guaranteed to be different when you book. And one of the downsides is that the physical puzzles at each checkpoint also remain the same so you'll know the answer to those if you play more than once. But it is also running in Manchester so you can give the other experience a go in a different city. Tickets for Race Across the World The Experience are £50 per person. But the cost is reduced the more people you book, for example, a team of eight adults is £200, which works out as £25 each. The opening times are during Monday–Saturday from 9am to 7.30pm (last entry at 7.30pm) Sunday 9.30am to 4.30pm (last entry at 4.30pm). For more information and tickets go to: Other things Sun Travel has tried are the viral Dubai chocolate ice cream, and even travelling to America for Crumbl Cookies. My Top Tips for completing the Race Across the World The Experience Dress for the occasion Wear comfy shoes and bring some water and snacks too if you don't want to take advantage of the checkpoints. Consider playing work puzzles Play work puzzles throughout the game even if you have money in your budget- the more money you have at the end, the better, as this counts towards your result. Check your spelling You have to send answers to the puzzles through WhatsApp and when you do, double check the spelling. We were caught out by auto correct and receive a fault which affected our score. It's in the details Input everyone's phone number before the experience begins so the whole team can read the questions throughout the game. Lots have images and prompts, so if you want a good time, this is key. Running or walking? Speaking of, decide at the very start what your game-plan is, whether you want to win the race or take your time so everyone's on the same page.
The Irish Sun
07-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
I tried the new Race Across the World The Experience – fans of the BBC TV show will love it
WHO doesn't want to Race Across the World like they do in the TV series? To ditch the 9-5 to go on an epic quest and see incredible destinations along the way? But let's face facts, most of us can't take months out of our lives to do that. So I tried out the best next thing, the new Race Across the World The Experience - and fans of the show (just like me) will love it. 5 I recruited my friends to play Race Across the World The Experience Credit: Alice Penwill 5 We ventured around London solving puzzles and brain teasers Credit: Alice Penwill On one of the hottest weekends of the year, myself and a team of three willing friends, met at the game's starting point: As a fan of the Just like the series, the experience is a race against the clock to get from one checkpoint to the next. But unlike the show, you get there by solving lots of puzzles, which are sent through WhatsApp - which is very against the rules of the show, but essential for the experience. To begin, I simply typed 'ready' into my screen and despite having no idea what to expect, sent the message, and the experience began. The first stop was a cafe where I told the man behind the counter I was 'with the race', and he handed over very first task, which was one of the few physical puzzles. It was very maths-heavy, so I wasn't off to a great start and had to take a step back while my friends took over. The answer led us to the very first checkpoint, where the clock began to tick. Most read in News Travel There are three legs throughout, with options to take different routes along the way varying in complexity and cost. Along the way you have to solve riddles that will guide you to the checkpoint, and keep an eye out because the answers are simple but easy to miss, like a name on an engraving or plaque. I went on my first Disney cruise with classy champagne bars, watercoasters and West End-style shows 5 There are some physical puzzles around London too Credit: Alice Penwill WhatsApp is crucial as you text the answers throughout to confirm you're in the correct location and not aimlessly wandering about. If you don't know the area around Liverpool Street very well, the experience is still very doable as long as you pay attention to what you see. Just like in the TV series, you need 'money' to continue. Each route you choose takes cash out of your budget which initially is £30. To top this up you'll have to 'work', although there's no pulling pints in a London pub - instead, this is done is by solving tricky brain teasers. On the weekend we did the race, it happened to be one of the hottest weekends of the year but you do get breaks and plenty of time to enjoy them too. After reaching each checkpoint, the clock stops to give your team an optional break and at each is a venue where you get an exclusive discount off drinks and snacks. My team and I stopped in at one of the pubs to enjoy a cold drink and some much-needed shade. 5 All the routes cost money which you can top up by doing 'work' tasks Credit: Alice Penwill If you are a large group, you can be split into teams to play against each other with different start locations, but will end in the same place. If you choose to play as a whole team instead, you will be put against other teams with similar times to you. At each leg the game will update you on how you do in comparison, and it does a lot to stir the competitive spirit - by the end, my team and I had set ourselves a fast pace in order to come out on top. At the very end, we got our results and were pretty chuffed to find ourselves at the top of our leader board, and in the top 17 per cent of overall racers. The race can take up to three hours which doesn't include breaks. We completed the experience in just under two hours, but with our breaks, were out around three and a half. The website says that you can play the game multiple times, as there are route variations - but these aren't guaranteed to be different when you book. And one of the downsides is that the physical puzzles at each checkpoint also remain the same so you'll know the answer to those if you play more than once. But it is also running in Manchester so you can give the other experience a go in a different city. Tickets for Race Across the World The Experience are £50 per person. But the cost is reduced the more people you book, for example, a team of eight adults is £200, which works out as £25 each. The opening times are during Monday–Saturday from 9am to 7.30pm (last entry at 7.30pm) Sunday 9.30am to 4.30pm (last entry at 4.30pm). Read more on the Irish Sun For more information and tickets go to: Other things Sun Travel has tried are the viral My Top Tips for completing the Race Across the World The Experience Dress for the occasion Wear comfy shoes and bring some water and snacks too if you don't want to take advantage of the checkpoints. Consider playing work puzzles Play work puzzles throughout the game even if you have money in your budget- the more money you have at the end, the better, as this counts towards your result. Check your spelling You have to send answers to the puzzles through WhatsApp and when you do, double check the spelling. We were caught out by auto correct and receive a fault which affected our score. It's in the details Input everyone's phone number before the experience begins so the whole team can read the questions throughout the game. Lots have images and prompts, so if you want a good time, this is key. Running or walking? Speaking of, decide at the very start what your game-plan is, whether you want to win the race or take your time so everyone's on the same page. 5 My friends and I attempted the Race Across the World The Experience Credit: Alice Penwill
Scottish Sun
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
I went on my first Disney cruise with classy champagne bars, watercoasters and West End-style shows
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) 'IT'S Cinderella!' a young girl exclaims, rushing past. Nostalgia floods over me when I turn around to find the fairytale princess floating towards us in her dazzling blue ballgown complete with shimmering tiara. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 5 I may be in my late twenties but I can't help feeling giddy with excitement over meeting one of my childhood icons Credit: Alice Penwill 5 Aladdin is one of the West End-style productions in the onboard theatre on the ship Credit: Steven Diaz Photo LLC I may be in my late twenties but I can't help feeling giddy with excitement over meeting one of my childhood icons. And this magic happens everyday on a Disney Cruise. I was on board the Disney Fantasy sailing across the Med as the ship embarked on its first ever season in Europe. It's easy to see why they named her Fantasy. As I explored the 14-deck vessel, I still had to pinch myself as I regularly came face-to-face with other childhood heroines I'd grown up watching, such as Jasmine and Mulan. Many kids relished the opportunity to don their favourite princess costumes every day. However, I wasn't expecting the cruise to be such a big hit with the adults, too. In fact, there are so many adult-only areas around the ship where parents, couples or solo travellers can kick back and relax, away from the excited giggles. The spa is a haven away from the action with heated loungers and rainforest showers as well as a Jacuzzi that looked out over the endless ocean. For a sophisticated evening, classy champagne bar Ooh La La serves elegant tipples like the Elderbubble, a champagne and elderflower concoction topped with a raspberry. An All-New Adventure Is On The Horizon Or there's the Irish-inspired, O'Gills, and lively club-bar, while The Tube serves drinks late into the night. Aside from the watering holes, there are two adult-exclusive restaurants too — Remy, which dishes up fancy French plates in a glam setting, and Italian-style Palo which serves traditional dishes but with a modern twist. For a properly-personalised experience, though, check out the three main restaurants: Royal Court, Animator's Palate and Enchanted Garden, which serve three-course dinners as part of the 'rotational dining'. This gives guests the same waiting staff every night who will get to know likes and dislikes and suggest dishes accordingly. I had the lovely Sheree from the Philippines who made sure everyone was thoroughly fed, and Adroy from India who gave our table puzzles every night to keep us entertained. When it comes to on board activities, the list is as long as Rapunzel's hair, with everything from Disney trivia quizzes to crafts, silent discos, and character meet-and-greets. It would take weeks do them all. Luckily, on day one I'd met a passenger who was on her fourth Disney cruise and was happy to share all of her tops tips. It's from her that I learned about the onboard tradition of 'pixie dusting'. 5 The stunning adults-only Cove pool is one of the areas where parents can get some respite 5 The impressive 14-deck Disney Fantasy cruise liner lives up to it's name Experienced guests spread the Disney love by leaving little goodie bags filled with either soft toys, door magnets or smaller knick-knacks on fish extenders attached to neighbouring cabin doors. They don't expect anything in return. It's simply a gesture of goodwill. The magic continued up on the top deck where many of my days were spent flopped on a sunbed, soaking up rays and tucking into ice cream, all while watching Disney favourites on the outdoor screen where films are played on rotation from morning til night. To cool off, there are three small pools, one of which is adults-only, and the famous AquaDuck — a 765-foot long water coaster, which features on several ships in the fleet. Or you can head inside to watch one of the West End-style productions in the onboard theatre. I saw amazing shows like Aladdin and Frozen as well as Disney's Believe, a musical exclusive to Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream which didn't leave a dry eye in the room. If that's not enough Disney for you, guests can get stuck into themed evenings, including a formal night where fans waltzed around in glittering ballgowns, as well as pirate night. Although, to my relief, you won't be judged if dress-up isn't your thing. I was having so much fun on board, I'd almost forgotten that we would soon be docking in a new destination. My trip started in Barcelona and we'd had an action-packed day at sea before arriving at the first stop, Civitavecchia, a quiet costal town an hour away from Italy's bustling Rome. 5 A stop off in Italy allowed Alice to see the famous landmark of the Leaning Tower of Pisa Credit: Alice Penwill Then it was on to the port of Livorno where I joined an excursion into Pisa. Soon, I was standing outside of the famous Leaning Tower, snapping away with my hands held up, replicating the famous leaning pose. Despite being the most recognisable view, the tower still didn't compare to the one at the next stop, Genoa. From D'Albertis Castle, a fortress carved into the hillside, I was able to look out over pastel-toned buildings, backed by rugged mountains, with the sea in the distance. Those who have the energy can climb their way to the top on foot but I chose to take the funicular. Our final stop was Toulon in France's Provence region, a haven for wine lovers and the perfect place to toast our Disney adventure. If Disneyland is the happiest place in the world, then the Disney Fantasy must be the happiest place on the Mediterranean Sea. GO: DISNEY FANTASY SAILING THERE: From late July to September, the Disney Fantasy will sail from Southampton on three to eight-night sailings around Europe. In summer 2026, the Disney Dream returns to Europe for Mediterranean cruises. A three-night cruise on board Disney Fantasy costs from £243pp per night based on two adults and two kids sharing a cabin in August. For more information, see Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme - Sun Club.
The Irish Sun
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
I went on my first Disney cruise with classy champagne bars, watercoasters and West End-style shows
'IT'S Cinderella!' a young girl exclaims, rushing past. Nostalgia floods over me when I turn around to find the fairytale princess floating towards us in her dazzling blue ballgown complete with shimmering tiara. Advertisement 5 I may be in my late twenties but I can't help feeling giddy with excitement over meeting one of my childhood icons Credit: Alice Penwill 5 Aladdin is one of the West End-style productions in the onboard theatre on the ship Credit: Steven Diaz Photo LLC I may be in my late twenties but I can't help feeling giddy with excitement over meeting one of my childhood icons. And this magic happens everyday on a I was on board the It's easy to see why they named her Fantasy. Advertisement read more on disney travel As I explored the 14-deck vessel, I still had to pinch myself as I regularly came face-to-face with other childhood heroines I'd grown up watching, such as Jasmine and Mulan. Many kids relished the opportunity to don their favourite princess costumes every day. However, I wasn't expecting In fact, there are so many adult-only areas around the ship where parents, couples or solo travellers can kick back and relax, away from the excited giggles. Advertisement Most read in Cruise The spa is a haven away from the action with heated loungers and rainforest showers as well as a Jacuzzi that looked out over the endless ocean. For a sophisticated evening, classy champagne bar Ooh La La serves elegant tipples like the Elderbubble, a champagne and elderflower concoction topped with a raspberry. An All-New Adventure Is On The Horizon Or there's the Irish-inspired, O'Gills, and lively club-bar, while The Tube serves drinks late into the night. Aside from the watering holes, there are two adult-exclusive restaurants too — Remy, which dishes up fancy French plates in a glam setting, and Italian-style Palo which serves traditional dishes but with a modern twist. Advertisement For a properly-personalised experience, though, check out the three main restaurants: Royal Court, Animator's Palate and Enchanted Garden, which serve three-course dinners as part of the 'rotational dining'. This gives guests the same waiting staff every night who will get to know likes and dislikes and suggest dishes accordingly. I had the lovely Sheree from the Philippines who made sure everyone was thoroughly fed, and Adroy from India who gave our table puzzles every night to keep us entertained. When it comes to on board activities, the list is as long as Rapunzel's hair, with everything from Disney trivia quizzes to crafts, silent discos, and character meet-and-greets. Advertisement It would take weeks do them all. Luckily, on day one I'd met a passenger who was on her fourth Disney cruise and was happy to share all of her tops tips. It's from her that I learned about the onboard tradition of 'pixie dusting'. 5 The stunning adults-only Cove pool is one of the areas where parents can get some respite Advertisement 5 The impressive 14-deck Disney Fantasy cruise liner lives up to it's name Experienced guests spread the Disney love by leaving little goodie bags filled with either soft toys, door magnets or smaller knick-knacks on fish extenders attached to neighbouring cabin doors. They don't expect anything in return. It's simply a gesture of goodwill. The magic continued up on the top deck where many of my days were spent flopped on a sunbed, soaking up rays and tucking into ice cream, all while watching Advertisement To cool off, there are three small pools, one of which is adults-only, and the famous AquaDuck — a 765-foot long water coaster, which features on several ships in the fleet. Or you can head inside to watch one of the West End-style productions in the onboard theatre. I saw amazing shows like Aladdin and Frozen as well as Disney's Believe, a musical exclusive to Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream which didn't leave a dry eye in the room. If that's not enough Disney for you, guests can get stuck into themed evenings, including a formal night where fans waltzed around in glittering ballgowns, as well as pirate night. Advertisement Although, to my relief, you won't be judged if dress-up isn't your thing. I was having so much fun on board, I'd almost forgotten that we would soon be docking in a new destination. 5 A stop off in Italy allowed Alice to see the famous landmark of the Leaning Tower of Pisa Credit: Alice Penwill Advertisement Then it was on to the port of Livorno where I joined an excursion into Pisa. Soon, I was standing outside of the famous Leaning Tower, snapping away with my hands held up, replicating the famous leaning pose. Despite being the most recognisable view, the tower still didn't compare to the one at the next stop, Genoa. From D'Albertis Castle, a fortress carved into the hillside, I was able to look out over pastel-toned buildings, backed by rugged mountains, with the sea in the distance. Advertisement Those who have the energy can climb their way to the top on foot but I chose to take the funicular. Our final stop was Toulon in France's Provence region, a haven for wine lovers and the perfect place to toast our Disney adventure. If Disneyland is the happiest place in the world, then the GO: DISNEY FANTASY SAILING THERE : From late July to September, the Disney Fantasy will sail from Southampton on three to eight-night sailings around Europe. In summer 2026, the Disney Dream returns to Europe for Mediterranean cruises. A three-night cruise on board Disney Fantasy costs from £243pp per night based on two adults and two kids sharing a cabin in August. For more information, see Advertisement Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme - Sun Club.
Telegraph
07-04-2025
- Telegraph
The luxury paddle steamer is the future of river cruising
The river cruise has traditionally been the sedate cousin of big-sea cruising, especially welcome if the idea of mega multi-floored ocean ships doesn't appeal. Gliding up the Rhine or ticking off country after country along the Danube has a markedly different feel to trying out umpteen restaurants, watching West End-style shows and clocking up lengths in the onboard pool. But how about a different kind of river cruise experience? One that combines the convenience of sailing right into the heart of a destination with more space: bigger staterooms with view-snatching balconies, more bars and al-fresco dining? Perhaps even a private plunge pool? Drawing inspiration from the classic Mississippi paddle steamers, a new fleet of vessels is taking river cruising to new heights, opening up far-flung destinations such as the Zambezi, the Nile and the Amazon, and taking European river travel in an exciting new direction. Tempted? Here are some of the best on offer this year and next. The Mississippi There's no better way to experience the nostalgia of paddle wheel ships than on the mighty Mississippi. American Cruise Lines has four classic ships (hosting between 110 to 180 passengers) plying both the Columbia and Mississippi rivers. They boast the largest staterooms in this river ship category, so expect generous balconies and extensive sun-decks, as well as rocking chairs, cosy reading nooks and roomy lounges. Book it American Cruise Lines (0800 988 3369) has the seven-night Lower Mississippi cruise on American Splendor from £5,899pp, including return UK flights, two nights' accommodation in New Orleans, two nights' accommodation at Graceland and VIP tickets to Graceland. Departs July 6 2026. The Zambezi From the spacious to the intimate, AmaWaterways' Zambezi Queen accommodates 28 guests in suites designed to give unobstructed views of the Chobe river (a Zambezi tributary) and surrounding landscapes. Expect to be gently woken by the sight and sounds of elephants enjoying a morning splash. The eco-friendly Zambezi Queen uses water jet propulsion, low-emission power and solar heating, while its floor-to-ceiling windows maximise wildlife watching. Book it AmaWaterways (0800 520 2250) has the nine-night Discover Africa itinerary which includes three nights in Cape Town, a four-night cruise and two nights at Victoria Falls. Prices start at £10,946pp including return flights from London or Manchester. Departs November 20, 2026. The Ganges With elegant Indian colonial-style interiors, dark woods and traditional textiles, the Ganges Voyager is a grand option if the idea of being transported to a bygone era appeals. The boutique river ship accommodates 35 guests in roomy suites with panoramic balconies. Daily cocktails are included, while the teak-floored Maharaja suite also includes butler service. Book it APT Touring (0800 012 6683) has the 12-day Kolkata and Lower Ganges Cruise, featuring three nights in Kolkata and seven nights onboard the Ganges Voyager, from £5,795pp including home-to-airport transfers and return flights. Departs September 13 2025. The Nile The name of Tui's Bahareya river cruise ship means 'belongs to the river', and with its modern Arabic-inspired interiors, French balconies and pristine white exterior, it certainly looks the part. Aesthetics aside, it's also a fraction of the price of most other Nile river ships. Its Ancient Gods and Famous Pharaohs cruise includes excursions to the Temple of Horus in Edfu and the Kim Ombo Temple. Book it Tui (0203 451 2688) has the seven-night Ancient Gods and Famous Pharaohs round trip from Luxor on TUI Bahareya, from £1,530pp, including flights from Gatwick. Departs November 18, 2025. The Loire Until CroisiEurope came along, no river cruise ships were able to tackle the Loire's shallow waters – enter modern paddle wheel ship the Loire Princesse, the shallow draft of which means it can handle the French river with ease. With fuchsia, pearly pink and copper-coloured interiors, it's certainly unique; it even has a large fireplace in the middle of the main lounge. Pourquoi pas? Book it CroisiEurope (01756 691269) has the five-night Loire Valley cruise round trip from Nantes, from £2,029pp including return flights from London Gatwick. Departs October 1, 2025. The Mekong There can be few finer ways to glide along the Mekong in Laos than aboard the beautiful French Indochina-style river ship, Boheme. Accommodating 26 guests over three floors, its floor-to-ceiling windowed staterooms and open terraces offer splendid views of the Asian landscape, while its old world design and Laotian motifs mean you'll feel truly immersed. Trips also include visits to the stunning Kuang Si Waterfalls, Saa paper village (Ban Xang Xhong) and an elephant conservation centre. Book it Mekong Kingdoms (0066 2365 9110) has the five-night Mekong cruise on Boheme from £2,675pp excluding flights. Various departure dates. Halong Bay and the Red River Cruise company Pandaw is known for its luxury sailings to remote and often hard-to-navigate rivers – amongst them the Red River system in Vietnam, which flows down the Tonkinese Alps to Hanoi and on to otherworldly Halong Bay. Modelled on a 1920s river steamer – with teak decks, brass accents and colonial-style cabins – the Angkor Pandaw is a thoroughly elegant way to traverse it. Book it Pandaw (0800 988 3369) has the ten-night Halong Bay and Red River cruise, which includes one night in Hanoi and all flights and transfers from £5,399pp. Departs April 11, 2026. The Amazon For many people, exploring the Amazon is the ultimate bucket-list adventure – so it follows that it should be done aboard a suitably unique boutique river boat. Relais and Châteaux's ship Delfin 1 is just such a vessel, with only four cabins and an abundance of charm. It navigates the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, the largest protected flooded forest in the world, and heads to the Amazon Natural Park, from where you can venture out to see pink river dolphins and kayak along the river. Book it Rainforest Cruises (001 888 215 3555) has the five-day Pacaya-Samiria cruise from £5,220pp, excluding international flights. Departs July 31, 2025.
