Latest news with #outdoorActivities
CTV News
10-07-2025
- Sport
- CTV News
Massive sturgeon caught near Lillooet
Vancouver Watch Some anglers are celebrating a massive catch in the Fraser River near Lillooet this week.
The Sun
08-07-2025
- The Sun
All the gross Boomer holiday habits my Gen Z friends and I would never do – especially all-inclusive buffets and bingo
AS a child, I spent my holidays crammed in a campervan while in rainy Wales, or at a budget kids club at a Spanish resort. But as an adult, I've realised that everything my parents loved about holidays, are nothing like my trips now as a grown up Gen Z. 8 8 That the all-inclusive life is suddenly not so appealing, the buffet food becomes same-y, you're bored out of your mind at bingo, and actually that kids pool looks quite grimy. Now we've gotten old enough to plan our own travels, Gen-Z are choosing holidays nothing like those loved by our parents. Adrenaline over All-Inclusives My Grandad's favourite thing to do is help himself to a buffet-style breakfast in Benidorm, before setting himself up on a sun-lounger with a good newspaper. But Gen-Z travellers like me are ditching the plastic wristbands and relaxing resorts for high-adrenaline adventure. I prefer paragliding to poolside lounging, and backpacking to beach holidays. I remember getting strapped into my harness on the edge of a mountain in the Swiss Alps. My heart was hammering, as I waited for the wind to pick up so I could run off the cliff edge. When I texted my Dad a pic of me dangling 6,500 feet in the air, I think he nearly passed out. But after years of travelling, I've gotten used to lounging by the pool - I need something exhilarating. And it turns out I'm not alone - 78 per cent of Gen-Z travellers like me want to try more exciting outdoor activities abroad. I survived flying down a hill on the world's longest zipline 8 8 'I remember getting catapulted across a waterfall in Canada," says fellow Gen-Z Sun Travel Reporter, Cyann Fielding. "At first my parents couldn't believe I did stuff like this - but now they've had to get used to it!" Hostels over Hotels One hot, stuffy room. Twenty creaky bunkbeds. One guy snoring so loud it shakes the entire building. I've had my stuff stolen, showered with a frog, and shared a room with a woman in L.A. who smuggled in her Jack Russell. Sounds like a holiday from hell to my parents - but I'll always pick a hostel bed over a plush hotel room. Why? Because hostels are always the start of a crazy story. They make unforgettable memories. My Mum still thinks hostels are dirty, dingy and full of weirdos. But you just don't get those wild experiences in a hotel. One survey showed that 75 per cent of Gen-Z and young millennials have stayed in shared accommodation on their travels. So I know I'm not the only one who thinks it's worth trading comfort for chaos. 8 8 Double beds, minibars and flatscreens are boring. I've met people from all over the world in hostel kitchens, bonded over instant noodles at 3am, and ended up on spontaneous trips I never planned. And if you haven't brushed your teeth in a bathroom next to a stranger being sick - have you even been travelling? Plus, you can actually get some really nice hostel stays for cheap. My favourite London hostel Clink261 costs me as little as £18 a night, plus I've stayed in the centre of Paris for just £20 with Generator Hostels. TikTok advice over Tours My parents' idea of the perfect holiday is ticking off the sights from a tour bus, and eating at the top-reviewed restaurants on TripAdvisor. I couldn't think of anything worse. Gen-Z travellers like me are obsessed with chasing cheap food, hanging out with the locals, and steering clear of crowds. Tour buses and tourist traps are a nightmare. I couldn't imagine queuing for hours just to climb the Eiffel Tower - especially when TikTok gives you all the best free spots to admire it from! 8 Similarly, I didn't care for the top-rated restaurants in Rome. I paid half the price of the fancy restaurant bill to make my own pasta with a class from Get Your Guide. (£30 to learn from the best? Absolute steal in my eyes). Why follow an old guidebook when social media is packed with real people sharing their favourite finds? That's how I found the pasta class - it was half the price of a meal out for two, and way more fun. In fact, 97 per cent of Gen-Z use social media as their main source of inspiration - and I have to say, it's served me pretty well in finding the best secret spots abroad. So ditch the travel agents and package holidays - try chasing the chaos and culture you can't find in a brochure.
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Travel + Leisure
05-07-2025
- Travel + Leisure
These New Jersey River Towns Are Full of Americana Charm—and They're Just 1.5 Hours From NYC
The Delaware River towns—including Lambertville, Frenchtown, and Stockton—are easily accessible from both New York City and Philadelphia (about 1.5 hours by car), making them a convenient weekend or day trip destination. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities like walking, biking, and kayaking along the D&R Canal towpath. The region hosts unique events, including Milford's bed races Lambertville's Shad Festival. From historic inns to countryside retreats, the area offers a range of cozy places to stay, including The National Hotel in Frenchtown and Woolverton Inn in Stockton. The river towns offer a wide variety of dining options with a focus on local ingredients and seasonal menus; don't miss the inventive farm-driven dishes at FinnBar in Frenchtown. The drive north along the Delaware River from Lambertville to Riegelsville is just over an hour. This idyllic stretch of western New Jersey is dotted with postcard-pretty towns that blend Americana charm with elevated local eats, funky cultural gems, and a refreshing lack of pretension. Set against a backdrop of rolling hills, bucolic farms, and a winding river that seems to slow time, the region invites you to breathe a little deeper. Each town along the way—Lambertville, Stockton, Frenchtown, and Milford—has its own personality, from Lambertville's art-forward sophistication to Milford's low-key magic. But they all share a certain alchemy: a deep sense of history, an easy relationship with nature, and a thriving creative spirit that feels both timeless and very now. I've been lucky enough to call Frenchtown home for the last five years, and I'm still discovering new gems tucked into these river towns. Whether it's a new farm stand, a hidden hiking trail, or a pop-up jazz show, the region is endlessly surprising—and impossible not to fall in love with. And while it's just a short drive from both New York City and Philadelphia, it feels like a world away. A fiction bookshelf in Frenchtown Bookshop. 'The towns that have formed along the Delaware carry with them a quaint sense of history, with Victorian architecture and bountiful nature blended with modern shops, restaurants, and bars,' says Carolyn Gadbois, owner of Union Coffee in Lambertville, which is known for its quality brew, excellent vegan brownies, and buzzy community events. 'There's plenty to do and much to see, but in a way that feels like you're escaping reality to a simpler, more beautiful time.' Start your trip in Lambertville, where antique shops—The People's Store houses more than 50 European, American, and Asian antiques dealers—and art galleries line the blocks and the canal-side towpath is made for strolling or biking. The town comes alive in the spring and fall—Gadbois recommends April for the Shad Fest or October for Halloween when "the houses and businesses go all out with decorations." In Stockton, explore Stockton Market, filled with wood-fired pizza, local cheeses, and a very good chicken salad curry sandwich. Don't miss Odd Bird Brewing, tucked inside a former gas station—it's a quirky local favorite. The D&R Canal towpath, which stretches more than 70 miles from Frenchtown to New Brunswick along the Delaware River, is ideal for a scenic walk or ride. Take a guided kayak or bike tour—you might even spot a bald eagle overhead. Or, strike out on your own, like Scott Sheldon, co-owner of the Frenchtown Bookshop. 'We load up our bikes, park in Frenchtown, and ride to Lambertville for lunch on the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park trail,' he says. The bookstore, which Sheldon and his wife opened after relocating to the area, is now a cultural cornerstone. Curl up with a new read in the charming backyard or catch one of the many author events. 'Like many residents of northern New Jersey and New York City, we discovered the river towns as a recreation destination,' he explains. When it came time to retire, the couple considered a long list of places, from the Berkshires to Martha's Vineyard. 'The river towns came out on top because of their natural beauty, easy access to culture, and friendly and literate residents.' Frenchtown continues to evolve while keeping its creative, offbeat spirit. ArtYard, a contemporary arts center with an ever-surprising lineup of exhibits and events, anchors the town's cultural scene. Shops like Modern Love, a beautifully curated boutique, add to its charm. Don't miss Gather, a flower studio and gift shop with dreamy arrangements and locally made treasures. According to Sheldon, most visitors are here to unplug and explore. 'Their ideal visit often includes spending time in nature, whether hammering the 'musical' rocks at Ringing Rocks Park, rafting on the Delaware, strolling the boutiquey downtowns, or dining at the area's easygoing farm-to-table restaurants,' he says. He also recommends becoming an 'agrotourist' for the day. The 579 Trail winds through dozens of small farms, stands, and wineries. Local favorites include Bobolink Dairy & Bakehouse for farmstead cheeses (my kids love visiting the cows and watching the cheesemakers at work), Pie Bird Farm for just-baked treats and colorful bouquets, and Phillips Farms in Milford for seasonal fruit and flower picking. Many of these spots also host farm dinners, cider tastings, and pick-your-own flower nights throughout the summer—check local calendars for events that might coincide with your trip. Bird's eye view of dishes from FiNNBAR. This vibrant BYOB spot serves Peruvian and Mexican cuisine in a cozy, colorful setting. The ceviche is a standout, and the lomo saltado is beloved by locals. With a lush outdoor patio and warm service, El Tule offers bold flavors and a taste of tradition. Set in a historic 1870s inn, Anton's offers an ever-changing seasonal menu with an emphasis on local ingredients and refined comfort food. The romantic ambience, wood-paneled bar, and white tablecloth service make it a go-to for special occasions and elegant dinners. Helmed by former Chez Panisse chef Cal Peternell, FinnBar brings creative, farm-driven cuisine to a sleekly restored inn. Expect unfussy but inspired dishes, a strong cocktail game, and occasional DJ nights. Bonus: A portion of profits supports Studio Route 29, a progressive local art studio. Overlooking the Delaware River and housed in an 1838 building, Riegelsville Inn serves hearty American fare in a cozy tavern setting. Top-notch live music, weekend brunch, and a deck with river views make it a perfect stop after walking the dramatic 1904 Riegelsville suspension bridge. This intimate, chef-run cafe from the cookbook authors behind the beloved "Canal House" series has refined yet rustic menus that change daily, but you can always expect impeccable ingredients, precise technique, and timeless flavor. Come for the beloved Sunday dinner and dig into foaming lemon butter asparagus and rhubarb and strawberry short cake. This stretch of the Delaware leans into its local flavor with delightfully quirky events. Milford hosts bed races down its main drag on Milford Day, Frenchtown welcomes Santa by canoe (bagpiper and Vikings included), and Lambertville's Shad Fest celebrates its namesake fish with music and street food. The New Hope/Lambertville Pride parade is the only one in the country to cross state lines. Exterior of Lambertville Station Inn. A restored 1850s landmark, The National Hotel blends history with hospitality. The upstairs rooms are cozy and quiet, while downstairs you'll find a lively bar with frequent live music, creative cocktails, and plenty of local flavor. It's the heart of Frenchtown's nightlife and a favorite for visitors who want to stay right in the action. Set in a converted 19th-century train station on the river, this boutique inn offers modern comforts with a dose of history. Many rooms feature river views, and the adjacent restaurant is perfect for a post-check-in meal. The location is ideal for exploring both Lambertville and neighboring New Hope on foot. Lambertville House is a historic hotel with updated, elegant rooms, some with fireplaces or spa tubs. Located in the center of town, it's steps away from shopping, dining, and the canal path. The cozy bar is a hidden gem, especially in the cooler months. A romantic countryside retreat on 10 acres of farmland, Woolverton Inn is perfect for those wanting to unwind. Guests rave about the serenity, beautifully appointed rooms (some with whirlpool tubs or fireplaces), and the indulgent three-course breakfasts served daily. It's a favorite for anniversaries and peaceful getaways. Aerial view of West Milford, New Jersey. This region is a convenient escape for city dwellers—less than two hours by car from Philadelphia and New York City. The nearest major airports are Newark Liberty International (EWR) and Philadelphia International. Amtrak stops in nearby Trenton, and from there it's a scenic drive through rolling countryside to the river towns. You can easily park and walk in towns like Lambertville, New Hope, and Frenchtown. For broader exploration—say, a trip up to Milford or down to Stockton—a car is helpful. Biking is a favorite local activity thanks to the D&R Canal towpath. 'Talk to strangers, watch the ducks, sit by the river, cross the bridge by foot,' says Gadbois. 'Breathe and enjoy a little bit of quiet in a creatively vibrant, socially inclusive and beautiful place to live.'
CBS News
04-07-2025
- Climate
- CBS News
Weather looks great across Maryland for the 4th of July Weekend
After several unsettled days, the weather is shaping up beautifully just in time for Independence Day celebrations across the region. Clear skies and comfortable humidity will usher in the holiday weekend Thursday night, with overnight temperatures dipping into the 60s to near 70 degrees. Friday, the Fourth of July, is expected to bring mostly sunny skies, low humidity, and highs in the mid to upper 80s—ideal weather for outdoor barbecues, parades, and other holiday activities. By sunset, those planning to attend fireworks displays can expect temperatures around 80 degrees with clear skies and dry air—"weather doesn't get much better," forecasters said. The pleasant trend will continue into the weekend. Saturday and Sunday will see slightly more cloud cover, and humidity levels will begin to rise late Saturday into Sunday. Still, both days will remain dry with highs near 90 degrees, providing extended opportunities for outdoor plans without interruption. Looking ahead to next week, the pattern shifts. Heat and humidity will build once again, with highs hovering around 90 degrees starting Monday. Scattered showers and thunderstorms are possible Monday afternoon and are expected to become more widespread through Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Overnight lows next week will remain in the 70s, and the atmosphere will stay unsettled with multiple rounds of potential storms. Forecasters advise making the most of the current quiet stretch, as more active weather returns after the holiday. Enjoy the sunshine and have a safe and happy Fourth of July.
Al Bawaba
03-07-2025
- Sport
- Al Bawaba
Hatta Hosts Summer Sports Festival to Attract Over 6,000 Participants as Part of ‘Our Summer is Sporty' Initiative
Hatta is set to become a vibrant hub of sports and outdoor activities this summer, as the region hosts a wide array of events under the 'Our Summer is Sporty' initiative launched by the Dubai Sports Council. The initiative aims to promote an active and healthy lifestyle among residents and visitors across Dubai during the summer than 6,000 participants are expected to take part in diverse activities that will unfold across various locations in Hatta throughout July. Supported by the Supreme Committee for the Development of Hatta and organised in collaboration with several partners, the events include mountain hiking, running, kayaking, yoga, night walks and indoor sports tournaments, catering to people of all ages, nationalities and fitness Hatta Summer Sports Tournament, organised by Hatta Sports Games Company, will kick off on July 4 at the Community Development Hall and will continue till July 31. The tournament features a rich programme of competitions, including corporate football, PlayStation contests, kids' football festivals, soap football matches, walking challenges for senior citizens, badminton and volleyball tournaments for girls, tug-of-war contests, cultural competitions and youth dialogue sessions. Visitors can also enjoy recreational activities such as horse riding, guided kayak tours in Hatta Dam and special children's tours in Hatta Honey Hassan Al Budawi, Head of the Sports Games Sector at Hatta Club, emphasised the importance of the initiative, saying: 'We are proud to host this diverse summer programme under the 'Our Summer is Sporty' initiative, which encourages community members - residents, citizens and visitors alike - to stay active during the summer. Hatta's breathtaking landscapes and unique sports offerings attract participants from across the UAE and beyond, providing a memorable experience amid mountains and valleys. Through these activities, we aim to engage over 1,500 participants, contributing to Dubai Sports Council's vision of embedding a sports culture in our society and promoting a healthy, active lifestyle.'Key events also include a yoga session at Hatta Dam on July 12, a night hiking trek in Wadi Hub on the same day, and an open kayaking day at Hatta Dam on July 20, offering free participation for all community members. A major running race organised by Super Sports is scheduled for July 27 at Hatta Dam.'Our Summer is Sporty' is a cornerstone of the Dubai Sports Council's strategy to make physical activity an integral part of daily life in Dubai. The initiative features a wide range of sports activities, including beach, snow, marine, mountain, women's sports, and events for People of Determination, along with competitive championships, training camps and family-friendly events. The programme is supported by both public and private sector entities and is implemented in collaboration with specialised organisations experienced in managing local and international sports tournaments. All events adhere to the highest safety and organisational standards.
