Latest news with #locals
CBC
4 hours ago
- Entertainment
- CBC
Take a tour of one of Canada's largest tall ships
Toronto's Waterfront Festival kicked off on Friday with a parade of historic tall ships sailing along the waterfront. CBC's Michelle Song joined locals and tourists as they hopped on what's believed to be the biggest tall ship in Canada: Empire Sandy.
Times
9 hours ago
- General
- Times
Tiger tiger… India's most luxurious new safari lodge burns bright
It was one of those #tellmewithouttellingme moments that showed I was in tiger country. I was on my way to Bandhavgarh, a wildlife sanctuary and national park in the Madhya Pradesh region of central India, and the traffic on the two-lane bridge ahead was jammed. Motorbikes, cars and buses blocked the road. Oblivious to the furious honking of those wanting to pass, dozens of locals stood by the wayside recording the adjoining grassland on their mobile phones. Women in saris, many with their faces hidden by the drape, several carrying children, stood excitedly pointing at something. No one was paying heed to the lone forest guard, much less his attempt to restore order — 'don't get off your vehicles', 'keep moving', 'don't stop'. 'Fools,' said my driver, exasperated. 'There's this tigress that frequents the area and she charges at people when irritated.' As if on cue, we heard a low guttural growl that clearly meant: 'Leave me alone.' The rebellious (and reckless) crowd would have none of it. The cacophony only grew louder as the adult tigress, an impressive representative of her kind, stepped out of the tall grass into full view. At about four feet from paw to shoulder, and seven feet from head to tail, she was a muscular ambassador for India's tiger conservation success story, and of Bandhavgarh's role in it. There are approximately 5,574 wild tigers remaining in the world, according to the Global Tiger Forum, and more than 66 per cent of them (3,682) can be found in India. The reserve is home to 135, and density is high — 7.5 tigers per 100 sq km, according to a 2023 Indian government report. It has more individuals than the smaller and more popular Ranthambore reserve in neighbouring Rajasthan, which has 57 (though 9.6 animals per 100 sq km). Also to Bandhavgarh's advantage is its flat, deciduous scrubland, which ensures sightings are plentiful and often easy, such as the one I enjoyed even before arriving at my tiger-spotting safari destination: the new Oberoi Vindhyavilas hotel. Thankfully, the feline decided not to live up to her reputation, choosing instead to disappear behind a veil of sal (a type of hardwood) trees and tall bamboo. • India's best safaris As I drove up to the entrance of the Vindhyavilas, the thick foliage screening the property parted to reveal a squat structure with traditional terracotta-tiled sloping roofs, then large hand-carved wooden doors featuring motifs borrowed from the tattoo artwork of the local Gond community, a native tribe of forest dwellers. The Oberoi Group, which operates 22 hotels and resorts in India, has changed its stripes for this light and airy hotel, doing away with its usual gilt and brocade in favour of a rustic chic look. Inside, there is more tribal art: a relief wall showed a ceremonial procession of the Baiga (another of the region's tribes) and lamps of burnished metal hang from a vaulted ceiling. Dark woods, muted shades of textiles and lustrous leather reminded me of safari lodges in Kenya and Tanzania, and cubbyholed partitions held studio pottery, wooden deer heads and potted plants. The tiger, Bandhavgarh's emblem, is pictured via the paintings of a local artist, embossed on brass dinnerware and printed on lampshades. Sweeping views are of tall waving grasses, towering trees and a lake with lotuses and fountains beside the pool (there's a spa and gym too). • More great wildlife holiday ideas I headed straight to the restaurant for a late lunch of khichdi, a sumptuous dish of rice and lentils with yoghurt and pickled vegetables, then curled up for a nap in my luxurious glass-walled tent-like structure (actually a building with canvas over the top) — one of 19, each with its own private garden and sun deck. There are two villas too. I needed a rest ahead of my few days of game drives, which generally start at 5.30am and last for five hours, and run again in the afternoons — another four hours. That evening I ate at the Bush Kitchen, outside by the lake, where the gentle breeze, the rustle of trees, the chirping of crickets and the 'ribbits' of frogs soothed and refreshed me further. If you're a safari newbie, especially in India, entering a tiger reserve can feel like a feat of endurance. Rickety, mini 4×4 SUVs, manufactured by the Indian company Maruti Suzuki, line up at the entrances. The sun has just about risen and birds are out for breakfast. Forest guards in charge of protecting the reserve check tickets. And when the gates open drivers race each other on dirt tracks to get to where forest department trackers have spotted animals. The landscape is rugged, with bumpy tracks leading over hills and through thick jungle. As someone with a chronic back ailment, I found the Oberoi's souped-up Mahindra 4×4 SUVs a game changer, and much more comfortable. • Where to go in India Less comfortable is the summer heat, with temperatures reaching the mid-40s, but so be it: this is the best season for tiger spotting, a time when animals park themselves near watering holes. The alarm calls of birds, deer and monkeys are the best indicators a tiger or leopard is nearby, though the screech of a jungle fowl from behind tall grass turned out to signal a sloth bear digging for termites. On one afternoon drive, as we swept past a rancid pool, our guide did a sharp turn and braked to a halt. As the dust settled, what he was pointing to, about 500m away, came into focus. A tiger, half hidden under a tree. Suddenly the head lifted to examine us; the ears twitched. Then the tail rose like an antenna. It was an 18-month-old, only recently separated from his mother. He decided we were no threat and rolled over with his belly to the sky to snooze in the shade. He looked an adorable furball, but then I remembered seeing tigers bring down sambhar swamp deer with a swoop of their paws, and the occasion I witnessed a tigress clashing with her former mate, leaving his jaw hanging by a sinew. Bandhavgarh is part of a network of tiger reserves, including Panna (with 79 animals) in the north, Kanha (360) to the south and Satpura (149) to the west, so if you're coming to the area — which is six hours' drive south of Delhi, or just over four from the closer regional airport at Jabalpur — you could plan to tour a couple, as well as the nearby Unesco world heritage site of Khajuraho, with its 11th-century Hindu and Jain temples. On my second morning I joined Soulin Chakraborty, Vindhyavilas's lead naturalist, on a birding walk around the 21-acre property, home to up to 65 species, depending on the season. We saw green bee-eaters, jungle babblers, plum-headed parakeets, black-hooded orioles, an Indian grey hornbill and the rare Jerdon's leafbird, and about a dozen types of butterfly. • Discover our full guide to safari holidays The abundance is thanks to the carpets of fountain grass, sal, arjun, mango and mohua trees, endemic species planted here. In summer locals ferment the mohua's flowers and brew into a heady liquor that has the herbaceousness of gin and the sharpness of tequila, versions of which are fast becoming a favourite of India's top mixologists. Surprisingly, the Oberoi's own cocktails don't use this ingredient, though others play on local lore. For instance Kaa, the python from Jungle Book (which was inspired by the jungles of central India), is transformed into a tequila-based drink called the Rock Python, using a homemade elderflower syrup. Charger, a dark rum cocktail, pays homage to one of Bandhavagarh's most famous tigers, and the refreshing non-alcoholic, thyme-flavoured Brahmi is named after an ancient script carved into caves within the forest. This region of Madhya Pradesh is called Bagelkhand and has its own distinct language and cuisine. The hotel's executive chef Sachin Kumar spent time with a local royal family's cooks, and several of their recipes have been incorporated into the hotel's repertoire: a fiery red amaranth stir-fry with a lentil and yoghurt curry, and jungli maas, a traditional preparation of red meat slow cooked with ghee, red chillies, onions and garlic. There are other cuisines too: chicken schnitzel, braised pork belly and Neapolitan-style pizzas straight from the oven that had the kids on a neighbouring table stuffing their faces. The dish I savoured most was butternut squash with a cashew cream; roasted just enough to be cooked through without losing its juiciness. On my last afternoon safari drive, as we sat watching a tigress dozing in a pool, it occurred to me that it wasn't just the tiger sightings that had made my three days here memorable. It was the thoughtful touches that usually make or break a stay. Earplugs by the bedside. The mini menu in the airport transfer vehicle so you can order your lunch or dinner even before you've checked in. It's that kind of service that makes a stay like this Ramamurthy was a guest of Oberoi Vindhyavilas Wildlife Resort, which has all-inclusive doubles from £590 ( Fly to Delhi This eight-night private tour visits three of central India's national parks to spot the tiger and some of the country's other animals and birds including the sloth bear, wild boar, rhesus monkey, black kite and the almost-extinct swamp deer. After a night in Delhi, you'll spend two nights in Bandhavgarh National Park, three in a lodge in Kanha National Park, home to about 125 tigers and 100 leopards, and two in Pench National Park. Up to 11 game drives are included along the way, and you will be joined by a naturalist for extra insight. Details Eight nights' B&B from £3,645pp, including internal flights, transfers, excursions and most extra meals ( Fly to Delhi It's no easy feat to set eyes on one of the world's rarest big cats. This escorted group trip to Ladakh in India's far northwest includes four nights in the region's capital Leh, plus six nights staying in a remote mountain guesthouse in the Ulley Valley. This new guesthouse has comfortable rooms but basic facilities including shared bathrooms. The region is home to ten snow leopards and expert local guides will maximise your chances of spotting one. The tour concludes with two nights in Delhi, including a trip to Sultanpur National Park and Bird Sanctuary. Details Twelve nights' B&B from £4,795pp, including flights, transfers, excursions and most extra meals ( The endangered red panda lives mainly in the trees of the temperate Eastern Himalayan forests. This private tailored tour includes four full days searching for this hard-to-spot mammal, staying in a cosy homestay in the Singalila National Park and eating local dishes with the host family. Expert guides will lead daily excursions in the surrounding forests and mountains looking for red pandas while spotting other animals like the Himalayan black bear, clouded leopard and exotic bird life. A night in a Delhi hotel is included before and after the tour, and an optional extension to explore Darjeeling can be Seven nights' B&B from £2,200pp, including flights and transfers ( Fly to Delhi
Forbes
16 hours ago
- Forbes
Escape The Crowds: The Best Portuguese Beaches Only The Locals Know
Find your own private beach in Portugal... getty The spectacular coastline is one of the top draws for people looking to retire to Portugal… The problem? Tourists! Most visitors flock to the southern Algarve region and these beaches can be overly crowded during the summer. Luckily, when you live here, you get to know the lesser-known spots and the places where only the locals know to go. Here are some of the top beaches to enjoy if you're looking to avoid crowds and beach like a local in Portugal… Nude Beach Culture Naturism in Portugal is legally permitted in designated areas, and while not mainstream, it has a growing and respectful community. There are several official nude beaches in Portugal, and nudity is tolerated at many more. These beaches are well signed, so you'll know when you enter the clothed or unclothed areas. getty The country has nine officially recognized naturist beaches and many more where naturism is tolerated, usually at one end of beaches that have long stretches of sand. Designated nude beaches offer a safe and legal space to enjoy the sun and sea without clothing. Official naturist beaches include: · Praia do Meco near Sesimbra · Praia da Barreta in the Algarve · Praia da Adegas in Odeceixe These are typically more secluded and promote values of body acceptance, freedom, and harmony with nature. Though public nudity outside these areas is not allowed, tolerance is generally high in remote or less crowded coastal spots, especially when practiced discreetly. Algarve's Unknown Shores The Algarve, Portugal's southernmost region, is famous for its stunning coastline. The dramatic limestone cliffs, sea caves, and turquoise waters make this one of Europe's main beach destinations—but there are still a few beaches here that are less known by foreigners… Praia do Amado Situated on the western coast of the Algarve, Praia do Amado is a favorite among surfers. Exposed to Atlantic swells, it offers consistent waves and hosts international surf competitions. Unlike some southern beaches, it retains a wild, undeveloped charm. The reddish cliffs, expansive sandy area, and rolling dunes make it ideal for long walks and wave-watching. Praia do Amado is one of the lesser-visited beaches in Algarve getty Praia da Ilha de Tavira On the eastern side of the Algarve, near the town of Tavira, lies Ilha de Tavira, a barrier island accessible by ferry or water taxi. Unlike the cliff-backed beaches to the west, this stretch of coastline is flat and backed by dunes. The waters here are warmer and calmer, ideal for swimming. The beach is long and wide, so even in the summer, it won't be too difficult to find a spot. Alentejo's Undercover Coasts The Alentejo coast, running from the Algarve to the Setúbal region, is a bit less crowded and more rugged than its southern neighbor. It's a place where cliffs meet untamed beaches and the pace of life slows down. Praia da Zambujeira do Mar This small beach town becomes livelier in August during the MEO Sudoeste music festival, but the beach itself is worth visiting year-round. Sheltered by cliffs and close to the village center, Praia da Zambujeira offers dramatic scenery and good surf. Despite its popularity, it still has much of its low-key charm. Praia da Zambujeira do Mar is a treat for beach lovers as well as cliff hikers getty Praia da Samoqueira Just north of Porto Covo, Praia da Samoqueira is a lesser-known gem. Small, rocky, and with natural pools at low tide, it's perfect for those seeking a more intimate connection with nature—and children who love to splash around in the pools. The surrounding cliffs and rock formations add to the sense of seclusion. Praia do Malhão This wide beach, located within the Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina Natural Park, is relatively undeveloped. With no permanent structures on the beach itself, it retains a raw, untouched feel. The waves are strong, making it popular among surfers, while the long stretch of sand is ideal for solitude-seeking beachgoers. Lisbon's Lesser-Known Locations Even the area surrounding the capital offers a surprising number of excellent beaches. Whether you seek windsurfing, sunbathing, or dramatic scenery, you don't have to travel far from Lisbon. Praia do Guincho Located just north of Cascais, Praia do Guincho is famous for its strong winds and large waves, making it a hotspot for wind and kitesurfers. Its expansive sandy area, framed by dunes and overlooked by the Sintra mountains, gives it a wild and remote feel despite being less than an hour from Lisbon. Sunset here is nothing short of cinematic. Praia da Adraga Tucked between cliffs in the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, Praia da Adraga feels hidden yet theatrical. The winding road to reach it builds anticipation and adds to the sense of discovery. If you love photography, you'll be glad to know this beach is a favorite spot for those looking for picture-perfect sunsets and rock formations (watch out for the 'elephant' on the left). Adraga also has a well-known small but good restaurant serving fresh fish and seafood. From it's rock formations to its spectacular sunsets, Praia da Adraga is a dramatically beautiful beach getty Central Portugal Charms Stretching between Lisbon and Porto, the Silver Coast (Costa de Prata in Portuguese) is known for its surf spots, lagoons, and picturesque seaside towns. It sees fewer tourists than the Algarve but offers equally captivating experiences. Foz do Arelho Located near Caldas da Rainha, Foz do Arelho is where the Óbidos Lagoon meets the Atlantic. This dual nature creates two very different beach experiences: the lagoon side, with its calm, shallow waters, is perfect for children and stand-up paddleboarding, while the oceanfront waves are great for surfing and bodyboarding. Foz do Arelho offers both ocean waves and a quiet lagoon—something for every kind of beach lover getty Northern Cool Waters The beaches of northern Portugal may have cooler waters, but they make up for it with unique settings, rich cultural backdrops, and fewer crowds. Praia de Miramar South of Porto, this beach is best known for the 18th-century Senhor da Pedra chapel perched on a rock outcrop right by the sea. The contrast between the small white church and the surrounding elements of sand and sea creates an almost surreal image. The beach itself is spacious, and the sunsets here are especially memorable. Praia de Moledo Close to the Spanish border, Praia de Moledo is popular among windsurfers and kiteboarders due to its brisk Atlantic winds. The beach has a distinctive charm, with views of the nearby fortress and the forested hills of the Minho region in the background. Praia da Apúlia What makes Apúlia truly unique are the historic windmills that still stand along the dunes. The beach combines natural beauty with a sense of cultural heritage. It's popular with families and also attracts photographers and history buffs. Apúlia is one of the most beloved spots along the Portuguese Coastal Route of the Camino de Santiago. Freshwater Escapes River beaches, or praias fluviais , offer a different kind of beach experience. Set against forests, hills, or historic villages, these inland spots provide clean, calm waters and a less touristy vibe. Praia Fluvial de Loriga Tucked within Portugal's highest mountain range, this river beach is set in a glacial valley. Surrounded by granite peaks, it's perfect for nature lovers and hikers looking to cool off in crystal clear waters. Icy cold and uninviting or fresh and invigorating? You decide. Praia Fluvial de Fraga da Pegada Located in the Azibo Reservoir Protected Landscape, this beach offers clean, safe swimming in an artificial lake created by a dam. Sandy banks, clear water, and facilities like showers and picnic areas make it family-friendly. Canoeing and paddleboarding are popular here. Praia Fluvial do Reconquinho Near Coimbra, this river beach on the Mondego River is shaded, peaceful, and often overlooked. Surrounded by eucalyptus and pine trees, it's a great place for picnics and swimming. Praia Fluvial do Alamal On the banks of the Tagus River, Alamal beach stands out thanks to a picturesque wooden walkway that hugs the riverbank and leads to Belver Castle. It combines historical charm with natural beauty. The sandy stretch is well-equipped and ideal for families. Praia Fluvial de Monsaraz Created by the Alqueva Dam, this beach near the medieval village of Monsaraz offers expansive views and calm waters suitable for several water sports. As one of the newer river beaches, it has good infrastructures and easy access. MORE FROM FORBES Forbes 5 Places In Portugal That Are Great For Retirees By Kathleen Peddicord Forbes 5 Places To Enjoy A Sunny, Stress-Free Overseas Retirement In 2025 By Kathleen Peddicord Forbes Moving To Belize: A Guide For Americans By Kathleen Peddicord Forbes Live Rich From $1,200 A Month In These 4 Thai Expat Havens By Kathleen Peddicord
Daily Mail
a day ago
- Business
- Daily Mail
The $25M sale that put a quiet East Coast beach town on the map
By A sleepy seaside community in New Jersey is getting attention after the biggest sale ever closed in the town, which is known for being the opposite of its rowdy Jersey Shore neighbors. Spring Lake, a picturesque beach town known by locals as the, 'Jewel of the Jersey Shore' saw the sale of a $25 million home in January 2025. Now locals say inquiring homebuyers want to know all about the town. Prior to the sale, it was hard to sell a $12 to $13 million house in the town, Glander said. But there has been a ripple effect since the sale and property values across the tiny, two-square-mile town have skyrocketed. Wealthy buyers are now pricing out the families who have called Spring Lake home for generations, and upsetting locals who discovered the town long ago. The $25 million home features nine bedrooms, 8.5 bathrooms, a wraparound porch, guesthouse, saltwater pool, and a golf simulator. Folding glass door open to a massive east-facing terrace with seating, kitchen, and al fresco dining overlooking the pool, gardens and ocean. The house was on the market for just four months before selling for the record-setting amount — a short timeline for such a massive price. Since the sale, homes that once lingered on the market have been snapped up in a matter of days. Offers close to $10 million are now common, and homes that used to sell for $1 to $2 million are now fetching $3 to $5 million, even if they're blocks away from the beach. 'Before COVID you could get something for around $1 million,' Glander told the Daily Mail. In May 2025, the median list price in Spring Lake was $1,995,000. 'An entry-level price to buy a home here is now around $2 million,' she said. For many lifelong residents, the new pricing and the attention that's coming with it has become a nuisance. 'It's more like the Hamptons. We actually used to get a lot of buyers that would come from Manhattan and they'd come to Spring Lake because they didn't like the commute to the Hamptons,' said Glander. From Manhattan you can be in Spring Lake in just over an hour, as opposed to the three-hour drive to the Hamptons. Spring Lake is not like its neighboring beach towns with their boardwalks filled with arcades and dive bars. 'They have a concession stand with food and snacks near the beach, but there's no rides, nothing like the other shore towns,' Glander said. 'That's why we discovered it. I didn't want arcades and games and you know — noise.' Glander added that the homes are also a different style than the rest of the beach towns along the shore. 'It's really, really beautiful. Everyone keeps their homes and their landscaping meticulous. It's immaculately clean.' In addition to the Atlantic shoreline, there are two lakes in town, one on the north end and another one on the south end. Due to strict zoning laws, there is still a small town feel. There are rarely new builds, and there are no big or tall buildings. The town has no traffic lights. 'Since the late 1800s until present the zoning has been kept very strict in town so that's why it is as beautiful as it is,' Glander added. 'With a lot of the beach towns if you had a 50-foot lot you could tear down a house and put four houses on it. You can't do that in Spring Lake.' Glander first bought in Spring Lake in 1986, and says the charming town was virtually unknown. While the home prices are now sky-high, the taxes remain surprisingly low — a draw for wealthy buyers, especially retirees. 'If you have a house right around $4 million, the taxes are usually right around $10,000 a year,' she said. 'Compare that to the Hamptons, which is like four or five times that.' The town also offers a unique amenity for locals in the form of large private beach lockers at each end of the boardwalk, so no one has to lug around their beach supplies for the day. 'You can leave your beach chairs, your umbrella, your boogie board, and just ride your bike to the beach or walk,' Glander said. Downtown Spring Lake is filled with upscale boutiques, well-maintained storefronts, and a new restaurant is being built inside a former 19th-century bank. Though the town is not dry, Glander says liquor licenses are scarce, and nightlife remains limited outside of a few nice dinner spot.
Yahoo
a day ago
- Yahoo
Edinburgh police swarm high street in late-night emergency incident
Police in Edinburgh raced to an incident on Thursday with a huge emergency response in the area. Around 9.30pm on June 26, officers swarmed Portobello High Street and a number of police vehicles were at the scene. Worried locals claim cops were "questioning some men" on the street. READ MORE: Terrifying moment masked West Lothian man 'robs store with meat cleaver' READ MORE: West Lothian husband has cardiac arrest at just 34 after wife notices warning sign The exact nature of the incident is unknown at this time. It's also not known if anybody was injured. In pictures taken from the scene, five police cars are blocking a junction. Three officers are in discussion by a police van. One concerned resident said: "Big police presence on Portobello High Street. Police were questioning some men apparently. "By the looks of the photo, it's literally 30 yards along from the police station on Portobello Road." Police Scotland have been approached for comment. We'll bring you more on this breaking news story as it happens. In the meantime, you can follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X . Join Edinburgh Live's Whatsapp Community here and get the latest news sent straight to your messages.
