Latest news with #beaches
Fast Company
13 hours ago
- Health
- Fast Company
How working parents can push for more support during the summer holidays
Sun-soaked beaches, cocktails by the pool, and a rare break from Zoom: It's what we all want from a summer break. Yet, for millions of parents, the reality doesn't live up to the dream. With school out and schedules upended, working moms find themselves under increased pressure. They juggle deadlines, playdates, meetings, and household chores, all while trying to create core memories with their loved ones. For them, it isn't a vacation—it's another full-time job. Unsurprisingly, a survey from the Headway app found that 36% of workers admitted that balancing work, social life, and downtime during the summer season leaves them drained; 9% say they're already suffering from sun-induced burnout. For working moms, the toll is even steeper: 81% reported experiencing burnout as they attempt to do it all. As someone who has balanced parenting with my role as a productivity coach at Headway, I know the exhaustion all too well. At times, there's the burning desire to quit. There's also the guilt of putting work before family, and the misery of returning from vacation more tired than when you left. The toll summer takes on working moms For working moms, the pressure to manage everything often leads to chronic overworking, skipped breaks, and stress levels. Over time, this slowly chips away at their physical and mental well-being. Burnout isn't a buzzword. It's a precursor to anxiety, depression, insomnia, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and more. And, again, working parents are at greater risk. A 2022 Harris Poll data (commissioned by CVS) found that 42% of working parents admit they suffer from anxiety, depression, or both. It's not surprising that motherhood often coincides with women leaving the workforce. A journal article from Behavioral Sciences found that some 24% quit within the first year. And working mothers who choose to come back don't always receive support. Instead, they face skepticism. They face scrutiny from employers over their commitment and competence—further stalling their career progression. Another journal article from Behavioral Sciences found that mothers were less likely to be interviewed, hired, promoted, or paid a fair wage. How to ask your employer for more summer support If you're struggling through summer with little support from your employer, here are some tips on how to make a compelling case that seasonal flexibility is a smart business decision that benefits all: Use data to support your case Unfortunately, the reality is that not all employers will care about your personal circumstances. Most, however, will care a great deal about your productivity. Headway research shows that 54% of workers have had their work routine disrupted by summer, while 46% are managing fewer than 30 productive hours each week. By supporting your request with data, you're showing how a lack of flexibility impacts the wider workforce—whether through reduced productivity, more sick days, or higher turnover. That way, it becomes less of a personal plea and more of a strategic business decision that benefits all. Ask for flexibility, not time off Your employer is paying for your time, so it's unrealistic to expect additional time off at their expense. Instead of requesting an absence, ask for flexibility. For instance, rather than saying you can't work Wednesday morning, explain why you need that time off and when you'll make it up. In this case, it might be when school (and normality) resumes. When you bring this up, stress that you aren't asking to do less. You're simply proposing a schedule that allows you to maintain your productivity while keeping on top of your summer responsibilities as a parent. Frame flexibility as a retention tool Turnover is an expensive problem for employers. Based on data from the Social Security Agency, the cost of replacing an employee can range from $33,000 to $50,000. Given the high quit rates among working moms, especially during high-pressure periods such as summer, retaining this talent can be a strategic solution. Present flexibility as a retention tool, and show how with a few adjustments, your employer can support your team's well-being while retaining talent, preserving knowledge, and saving costs in the process. Call on HR for support Your manager might not be all ears initially, but HR should be. After all, with data showing that working mothers shoulder a disproportionate share of the stress that comes with balancing work and caregiving responsibilities, this is an equality issue. In my experience, most employees want to be inclusive and supportive, but simply haven't addressed the specific need yet. But your advocacy could be the spark that prompts upper management to implement broader policies that ease the burden on all caregivers across the organization. Highlight other companies' successes While many companies are hesitant to disrupt the status quo, others have committed to supporting working parents and seen strong results. Patagonia, for instance, offers on-site childcare to all its employees, providing peace of mind over childcare during working hours and plenty of quality time with their little ones throughout the day. Likewise, HubSpot offers flexible work schedules and unlimited time off, prioritizing results over the number of hours an employee logs. These forward-thinking policies alleviate pressure on working parents while boosting loyalty, engagement, and retention. And it's no coincidence that these companies are regularly voted among the best places to work. And that's something that should pique your employer's interest, no matter what industry they come from.
Yahoo
14 hours ago
- Yahoo
These are the top 10 islands to visit, says Expedia
If you're dreaming of escaping to a gorgeous island with beaches and sunshine, you're not alone. Global interest by travelers for island vacations are up on average by 30% this year, according to Expedia's first-ever Island Hot List 2025. The list, which was released Tuesday, ranks the world's best islands to vacation at based on Expedia data and traveler reviews, plus weighing factors like accessibility, safety, sustainability and weather. "Powered by real traveler data, the Expedia Island Hot List gives travelers the inspiration they need to plan a smarter island escape,' Melanie Fish, head of Expedia Group brands public relations, said in a news release. 'Island adventurers want standout stays, affordable prices and seamless flight access." Travelers can find deals for their tropical vacation by visiting during the shoulder season, with the chance to save up to 50% on average for accommodations. A visit to Sardinia in September is 35% cheaper than in August, according to a travel platform. Here are the top 10 islands, according to Expedia. No passport, no problem: 5 US towns that feel like Europe Best for year-round sunshine: Aruba Aruba's reputation as one of the sunniest destinations in the Caribbean makes it the perfect choice for travelers seeking to maximize their beach time during their trip. It doesn't hurt that its Eagle Beach, renowned for its soft sand and turquoise waters, has consistently ranked on Tripadvisor's annual best beaches. ▶ Best time to visit: September Best for relaxation: Bali, Indonesia Yogis and surfers have long been going to Bali, known for being a deeply rooted spiritual place with stunning natural beauty, so it makes sense that the Indonesian island was named the best for relaxation by Expedia. ▶ Best time to visit: September Best for adventure: Dominican Republic Yes, there are beautiful beaches in the Dominican Republic, but the Caribbean island is also an ideal destination for travelers looking to partake in water sports, hikes, ATVs, ziplines and more. With its many all-inclusive properties, travelers can also make the most of their budget. ▶ Best time to visit: April Best for community: Fiji Fiji is one of those bucket list destinations, offering travelers a balance of adventure and relaxation, with surfing, diving and pristine beaches to enjoy. The island country is working toward regenerative tourism with community-based and conservation initiatives, according to Expedia. ▶ Best time to visit: September Best for culture: Jamaica Jamaica has stunning beaches, but also a vibrant culture of reggae music, rum, cuisine and more. For those eager to explore the outdoors, travelers can swim in the waterfalls of the Blue Mountains before relaxing on the paradisiacal Seven Mile Beach. ▶ Best time to visit: December Best for affordable luxury: Koh Samui, Thailand While the latest season of HBO's hit show "White Lotus" put Thailand at the top of everyone's bucket list, the destination is underrated for affordable luxury. Koh Samui is known as Thailand's rising wellness capital, with a focus on yoga, spirituality and detoxes, according to Expedia. ▶ Best time to visit: March Best for romance: Maldives Over the last 50 years, the Maldives has risen as a haven for those seeking out a quiet getaway. Its many resorts make travelers feel as if they're on a private island away from the rest of civilization. That is, without giving up luxury, like the famous overwater bungalows, this destination is known for. ▶ Best time to visit: May Best for surfing: Oahu, Hawaii Hawaii is often credited as the birthplace of modern surfing, with Oahu beckoning surfers of all skill levels from around the world. However, this is just one way travelers can engage with Hawaiian culture, as the islands focus on responsible tourism initiatives, such as volunteering. ▶ Best time to visit: September Best for nightlife: Paros, Greece While Mykonos and Santorini may be the more famous Greek islands for travelers, Paros is emerging for those seeking out luxury and nightlife with fewer crowds. ▶ Best time to visit: September Best for foodies: Sardinia, Italy As a Blue Zone, Sardinia is the destination for travelers seeking luxury with a splash of wellness. Fresh, delicious cuisine, combined with the stunning Italian coastline, has earned this island a spot on the list. ▶ Best time to visit: September This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Dreaming of island life? Expedia reveals 2025's hottest picks
Daily Mail
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
NY beach town is quietly becoming the 'Ibiza of America'
By Paradisal beaches, raving nightlife, and endless parties with killer sunsets. It sounds like Ibiza, but what if we told you it's only a train ride away from New York City. The talk of the town in the Big Apple every summer is the wealthy flocking to their Hamptons homes to enjoy a good workout class , exclusive parties and rub elbows with the world's top one percent. But neighboring Long Island hamlet, Montauk, is where the real party has been this summer. As more music festivals and DJ parties continue to pop up along the idyllic beaches and hotspots around town, causing influencers and ravers alike to flock there, the hamlet of 4,000 is starting to be referred to by some as 'America's Ibiza.' Over Memorial Day and July Fourth weekends, party after party filled with hot young people dancing the night away to up-and-coming DJs like Beau Cruz . Plenty of huge parties take place at Surf Lodge, one of Montauk's go-to places for influencers to let lose against the gorgeous summer sunsets and fall into their expensive hotel rooms on the premises, that start at around $795 a night. Radio host and music curator Bobby Hendrickson, who has 129,000 followers, called Montauk the new Ibiza in a TikTok that has quickly gone viral. He said the New York hotspot resembled the Spanish archipelago due to its rising tourism in the summer, vibey nightlife and day parties, and the wealth of its visitors. 'Let's go, Montauk!' the 29-year-old Miami resident told Daily Mail in a phone interview. 'It's got similar vibes to Ibiza.' Both have become well-known places that are filled with celebrities, the wealthy, gorgeous beaches, crazy parties, and lots of money. 'And it's an island,' he said of both places. Hendrickson, who was in Ibiza this week, said nothing will truly compare to the Spanish vacation spot, but he does believe Montauk could develop into a rival. 'Nothing is like Ibiza,' the SiriusXM host said. 'That's its own animal.' Before the Ibiza-esque takeover, the hamlet - located on the farthest eastern point of Long Island - was a sleepy surfer town known for its quaint charm. Now, it's anything but. 'It's people with money,' Hendrickson told Daily Mail. And people who want to party. It has well-known DJs coming out, like Cheat Codes - who have a song with Demi Lovato - who will be taking over the Surf Lodge. Other beach places like Gurney's Montauk and Duryea's - which has a $97 Cobb salad on its menu - are other popular places. The Montauk Beach House is hosting a Palma Day Club, which features a party at the clubhouse every Saturday with two pools, DJs, and food and drinks. And if influencers are lucky, they'll score tickets to private parties or get to attend brand parties. Last summer, Dolce and Gabbana held a beach pop at the clubhouse and had items for sale. Hendrickson thinks social media has played a huge role in putting Montauk on the map. 'Social media has that effect,' he said. 'It created a hype culture [around Montauk].' Nightclub consultant, Jonas Young-Borra, 40, of Manhattan, said the only comparison is the wealth of those enjoying it as the New York destination is much, much smaller than the Spanish island. He also said that Ibiza, unlike Montauk, was 'built as a party community'. 'Ibiza has monster huge clubs,' he told Daily Mail while driving out to Long Island. 'I'd never call it the Ibiza of New York... As a party destination, you can call it boutique Ibiza.' But he agrees with Hendrickson that it is more of a 'destination now than ever before'. Although Hendrickson and Young-Borra don't know how long the hype will last. 'People are chasing the trend of the moment and they'll chase the next,' Young-Borra told Daily Mail. 'It's a seasonal place,' Hendrickson, who tries to visit Montauk at least once a year, said. 'In the summertime, it's a lot of fun.' A former emergency medicine and pediatrics doctor who has been going out to Montauk for 10 years agreed that the town has seen a 'complete change in culture' more recently. Dr. Fidel Garcia, 47, of Brooklyn, works with Boutique Concierge and Ring My Belle offering partygoers in Montauk at-home IV hydration. He said their services have been a huge hit especially amongst revelers preparing for a big weekend. Like their counterparts in the Hamptons, they too are ordering IV drips to their doors to ward off dreaded hangovers. 'Clients are treating it like an ultimate weekend destination,' he said. 'It's the next big party center. 'There's lots of pregaming,' he told Daily Mail. Clients will often pregame on Thursday and Friday before partying the weekend away. On Saturday and Sunday, recovery efforts begin, he explained. Nearly a third of his clientele are New Yorkers in their 20s and 30s enjoying a summer away from the hot concrete jungle, while others come from different states and countries. The hangover drip, which retails for $350 and is delivered to one's door, is in 'high demand' during the summer months, Garcia said. The NAD+ drip, which retails for $850, is also 'having its moment,' the former emergency medicine and pediatrics doctor told Daily Mail. The majority of those looking for party bender recovery are young adults, while the wealthy elite between the ages of 30 and 50 are more focused on health-related aspects, he added.
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Travel + Leisure
2 days ago
- Travel + Leisure
This Under-the-radar Island Near Turks and Caicos Has Glow Worms, Turquoise Waters, and No Crowds
Several of the islands within the Turks and Caicos archipelago have that rare combination of being easy to get to—Providenciales International Airport (PLS) offers direct flights from many major U.S. cities—while simultaneously feeling a world away from work emails, other travelers, and any of life's everyday stressors. They also boast some of the most gorgeous beaches in the world, with Provo's Grace Bay often taking the top spot as the best of the best. One look at the clear blue waters of Grace Bay may tempt you to plan a trip, but there's a neighboring island that has similar beaches—possibly even better ones, depending on who you ask—but without any of the crowds that form from the main island's roster of resorts and other services catering to tourists. It's also the perfect jumping-off point for witnessing an almost supernatural light show from glow worms, also known as Bermuda fireworms or Odontosyllis enopla , which illuminate a green light during the mating cycle. The 800-acre private island of Pine Cay is just a 20-minute boat ride from Providenciales, and it's home to the eponymous luxury resort, Pine Cay. 'Socially distanced by design, we have 3 miles of privately owned beach to be shared among 30 privileged guests. There are no inhabitants other than our guests,' general manager Christian Langlade tells Travel + Leisure. Yes, you may spot a few fellow travelers on the beach, but everyone has their own dedicated beach chair and tiki hut setup—and you're encouraged to roam the island at your leisure, snorkeling directly off the pristine coast, casting for bonefish, or venturing out to a nearby sandbar. In fact, the only time you may run into other guests, outside of meals, is when everyone sets off on a cruise to see the glow worms in action. 'The glow worms happen every month during the three days after a full moon phase,' explains Langlade. 'We have an organized excursion with a private boat that takes our guests to the most prolific area where the bioluminescent creatures transform dark shallow waters into otherworldly landscapes. This typically happens on the other side of the island, known as 'the flats.'' Although it's certainly visually impressive, it's also rooted in science. 'Spawning females swim in slow circles secreting a bright bluish-green luminous mucus while releasing gametes. Males swim rapidly toward glowing females while emitting short flashes of light in advance of releasing their own gametes,' states a 2018 study published in the PLOS journal by several scientists associated with the American Museum of Natural History. Even if your visit doesn't align with the incredible glow worm light display, there are still several reasons to have Pine Cay on your vacation shortlist. 'December to April offers excellent visibility, flat water, and the opportunity to see migrating humpback whales,' says Langlade, noting that his favorite time is May to August, 'when waters warm up to a perfect temperature and proud mothers introduce their baby bottlenose dolphins.'
The Sun
2 days ago
- The Sun
The Mediterranean island that Brits don't know about with spectacular beaches and it's loved by Italians
MANY holidaymakers will jet off to Italy over the summer - but few know an underrated island so special even locals gush about it. Places like Sicily will always be popular with British holidaymakers, though if you speak to Italians its the Aegadian Islands they will be heading for. 5 5 In total there are five Aegadian Islands, but only three are inhabited - Favignana, Levanzo and Marettimo. Favignana is the largest of three main islands and from above is shaped like a butterfly. It's known for its blue and white fishing harbour and narrow streets. It's small, too, so there's no need to hire a car - you can cycle or walk around to see the towns or go to the beach. Another option is to take one of the many boat day trips to take a tour of the island. You'll see loads of coves and even go to the neighbouring island of Levanzo. Some of the most popular beaches on the island are Cala Rossa, Cala Azzurra, Bue Marino and Lido Burrone. One visitor said about Lido Burrone: "The crystal-clear water and white sand make it one of Favignana's most interesting beaches. It feels like being in the Caribbean." white sand. The beach is a recommended place for seeing marine life, as it's full of fish and a popular snorkelling spot. For any history buffs, Favignana was once the tuna capital of the world because of its tuna fisheries. 'Otherworldly' Italian island just three hours from the UK that featured in two huge Hollywood franchises 5 5 In the 15th century, the island was ruled by Giovanni de Karissima who was also known as the 'Baron of Tuna". When it comes to where to eat on the island, you're most definitely spoilt for choice. There's plenty of seafood dishes thanks to its island location, as well as pasta, arancini and panelle. You don't have to eat at a restaurant either, there are plenty of markets and little takeaway shacks if you fancy something more causal. There are bars dotted around the island so whether you seek shade in the towns or full sun on the beach, you can always find somewhere to have a refreshing drink. When it comes to venturing there, Favignana is 10 miles from Sicily and is easily accessible by ferry. You can travel from Trapani to Favignana all year round and in the high season there are 25 crossings a day. The trip can take up to 1 hour and 10 minutes, with tickets starting at €10 (£8.68). Or you can hop from Marsala to Favignana which has five daily crossings and is generally quicker taking 30 minutes per trip. The ticket prices start at €13 (£11.29). Here's another Italian island that's loved by celebs and the royal family - it has hidden beaches and holiday villages. And you can visit this largely untouched Italian island with red sand beaches. 5
