They expected an Olympic boon. But some Paris businesses are experiencing a bust

PARIS — On a typical summer day, tourists flock to the historic Marais district of Paris, wandering its charming medieval streets dotted with ultra-chic boutiques, gazing at stunning private mansions, strolling through the elegant 17th-century square Place des Vosges, and filling humming restaurants and bars. But this summer has hardly been typical, and those streets, … Read more

How to take a break from work and travel in Europe on a budget

In 2023, Rowena Hennigan came to a difficult but necessary conclusion — she needed an extended break from work. Hennigan was dealing with disrupted sleep, anxiety, brain fog — all normal symptoms of menopause – but it was wreaking havoc on her work and her mental health. She said she tried exercise, a new diet, … Read more

Chinese shoppers flock to Japan to take advantage of the weak yen

Chuo Ward, Tokyo, Japan – February 23, 2018; Top luxury shopping streets with multi colored neon signs. Ginza avenues are lined with shops of expensive brands and restaurants in the heart of Tokyo. It is half past five p.m. on Friday. People flock to Ginza for shopping, dinner and drinking with their friends. Ginza became … Read more

Southwest to get rid of open seating, offer extra legroom in biggest shift in its history

A Southwest commercial airliner takes off from Las Vegas on Feb. 8, 2024. Mike Blake | Reuters Southwest Airlines is ending open seating and will offer extra legroom seats on its airplanes as mounting pressure on the carrier to increase revenue prompts the biggest changes to its business model in its 53 years of flying. … Read more

‘I rediscovered Pembrokeshire and fell back in love’: readers share their favourite memories of Welsh holidays | Holidays To Remember In Wales

Annie, 32, LondonI love taking city breaks to Cardiff in the summertime. You can’t beat sitting in Cardiff Bay in the sunshine, having lunch while looking at the boats, and heading into town for a night out. Everything is within walking distance – you don’t have to trek across the city to get to another … Read more

Castles, spas and coastal gems: eight memorable Welsh holiday experiences | Holidays To Remember In Wales

Experience mountain bike paradiseWith its famously hilly terrain, dense forests and sweeping valleys, Wales is a mountain biker’s dream. From the rugged trails of Coed y Brenin in Eryri (Snowdonia), north Wales, to the forest tracks of Afan Forest Park in south Wales, there’s an epic adventure for every rider. For an adrenaline-fuelled biking experience … Read more

Sun, sea and spare cash: three budget-conscious family getaways in Wales | Holidays To Remember In Wales

Whether you’re looking to build sandcastles and soak up the sun on the seashore, get active with adrenaline-pumping pursuits, or simply want to get out in nature with the kids in tow, Wales has you covered. The best part? You don’t need to break the bank, thanks to a wealth of budget-conscious options from accommodation … Read more

7 Boundaries You Should Set Before A Family Vacation

Even the most unbelievable experiences in picturesque places can crumble in the face of family discord. How can you enjoy a sunny day on the beach when you’re trying to dodge your parents’ intrusive questions? Or a visit to an ancient historical site, when you have to broker peace between your adult siblings? You could … Read more