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Discover Taiwan’s Night Sky Wonders: Plan Your “Starry Taitung” Adventure Today!

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TAITUNG, June 10, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Imagine yourself gazing at a breathtaking tapestry of stars, unmarred by light pollution. Welcome to Taitung, Taiwan’s ‘starry city,’ where nights come alive with celestial wonders. Nestled in the southeastern corner of Taiwan, Taitung is a treasure trove of natural wonders, rich landscapes, and diverse ecological habitats. The local Indigenous cultures add a layer of historical depth to its charm. With its commitment to maintaining low development and preserving its pristine air quality, Taitung has been dubbed “Taiwan’s most beautiful stargazing city.”

Since 2018, the Taitung County Government has been promoting the Starry Taitung series, which includes the Starry Taitung Night Concert and other events, all free to attend, nurturing sustainable tourism through expertly curated tours and awareness programs that showcase the magnificent night skies.


This year, from June to August, the Starry Taitung Night Concert will be the highlight of the series. The concerts offer a chance for visitors from around the globe to enjoy the star-filled skies above the region, whilst appreciating the diverse musical talents we have to offer. In 2021, the Starry Taitung initiative received ISO 20121 certification, recognizing its sustainable event management practices. The campaign is noted for its commitment to creating a tranquil atmosphere, minimizing light pollution, reducing single-use waste, and promoting low-carbon emissions. The series will take place in six locations across Taitung: Guanshan, Dawu, Donghe, Beinan, Lanyu, and Ludao townships, from 6 pm to 9 pm. Each event will feature a vibrant starlit bazaar, live music performances, and guided night tours, all offered free of charge.

Travelers who appreciate the tranquillity of rural landscapes should consider cycling through Chishang Township to Dapo Pond or Bolang Avenue, or exploring Guanshan Waterfront Park in Guanshan Township. Those who prefer panoramic sea views can visit the Jialulan Recreation Area along the coastal highway just north of Taitung City, the Sanxiantai Scenic Area in Chenggong Township, or the 9420 Coastal Park in Dawu Township, all which overlook the Pacific Ocean. Each of these sites also doubles as a perfect location for stargazing, offering clear views of the night sky.

For a more guided experience, Starry Taitung provides tours led by knowledgeable locals, focusing on the region’s evening skies. Visitors can find stargazing maps and event guides on Starry Taitung’s official website or Facebook page. Adding “Taitung County” and “Starry Taitung” to your Taiwan itinerary promises an enriching experience that combines the Taitung’s unique countryside, valleys, and serene coastal areas with the awe-inspiring beauty of its night skies.

For the latest updates on the event, please visit our official Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/StarryTaitung).

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This comfy floating recliner is like a ‘La-Z-Boy for the pool’ — it’s just $30

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Can you feel that? Summer heat is here and we’re ready to soak it up. If you’re one of the lucky people who can cool off at a pool or lake, accessorizing has never been so fun. Sure, those colorful floats and noodles are fun for the kids, but come adult swim time? Having an inflatable armchair to lounge in is the move — and we’ve got just the one. The Intex Floating Recliner is your ticket to relaxation this summer, with its cushy design and (dual!) cup holders. Oh, and did we mention you can snag it for just $30 at Amazon? Let’s dive in!

Amazon

With all due respect to the armchair in your living room, this inflatable recliner is what you need to be lounging in.

$30 at Amazon

Swimming is fun, but sometimes you just don’t feel like getting wet. If it’s a comfortable floating sesh you’re seeking, look no further. This inflatable chaise has a puffy back and armrests, and its contoured design will make you feel like you’re relaxing in your favorite chair — perfectly suited for enjoying a good beach read. However, its best features are arguably those dual cup holders. Could there be anything more luxurious than lounging in a pool with not one, but two refreshing beverages on hand? Tell the kids to go splash somewhere else — it’s time for R&R: Water Edition!

Made of sturdy vinyl, this durable float can be used in both lakes and pools, and its strong handles will make you feel secure, even if the waters get a little choppy. (Again, kids, enough with the splashing!) There’s an included repair patch juuust in case, and at just seven pounds, it’s also tres portable, making it perfect for that weekend lake vacay. You’re sure to be the envy of every swimmer there!

model on a recliner pool float

The only thing you’ll be searching for during Marco Polo is this cushy pool float. (Amazon)

With nearly 13,000 five-star seals of approval, the Intex Floating Recliner is a bona fide hit with Amazon customers — and for good reason!

One shopper accurately described it as a “La-Z-Boy for the pool!” while another wrote, “It has exceeded my expectations. The lounge is large enough to comfortably fit an adult and provides a spacious relaxing place to float in the pool or lake. The recliner design is fantastic, as it allows you to lean back and relax while keeping your head and feet elevated about the water.”

Several shoppers praised this recliner’s design, specifically its cup holders. Some noted, though, that they would have loved one tiny tweak. “Cup holders could be a bit wider, but overall, this is the only float for [my boyfriend],” another honest reviewer wrote. “Want a strong but bougie float? This is it.”

One more reviewer had the right idea when purchasing this float — and we think lots of shoppers can relate. “I ordered this float for cooler days when I want to get in the pool but not get super wet,” a five-star fan wrote. “It’s perfect for that! My dog gets on it with me and we float around the pool.”

Intex

Have a pool buddy? They’ll love you forever for including them in the fun with this two-pack.

$68 at Amazon

And since we’re all about chillaxing this summer … how ’bout a zero-effort inflation method? The highly rated Flextailgear Tiny Pump does the job in no time, is on sale for $28 and is perfect for on-the-go:

Amazon

At just two inches long, this small yet mighty inflator blows up everything from pool floats to air mattresses with the touch of a button. It includes five nozzles to fit whatever you’re inflating and recharges via USB.

$28 at Amazon

If you have Amazon Prime, you’ll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here. (And by the way, those without Prime still get free shipping on orders of $25 or more.)

The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.

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China’s consumers are spending on experiences. Travel stocks to watch

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4 tips and tricks for flying with checked bags: ‘Luggage will get lost’

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With summer travel already in full swing, Fox News Digital spoke to experts to learn some of their tricks and tips for making sure that a checked bag arrives safely to its destination.

Airports are busier than they have been in years, meaning there are a lot more people who will be checking bags on their flights. 

Here is what travel experts recommend doing — and avoiding — so that a vacation does not begin by waiting in a line at a lost luggage office at the airport. 

5 SECRET SUMMER-TRAVEL PACKING HACKS TO MAXIMIZE CARRY-ON SPACE AND MINIMIZE STRESS

Check out these four tips.

1. Fly direct if possible

Direct flights are the best bet if you want your luggage to get to the right destination,” Richard Campbell, founder of Calgary-based travel company 10Adventures, told Fox News Digital via email. 

If a direct flight is not possible and a bag has to be checked, Campbell recommended having at least 90 minutes between flights. 

Atlanta airport baggage claim

To avoid losing checked bags, fly direct if possible, said one travel expert — or at the very least, do not book a tight connection.  (Dustin Chambers/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

“If I have two or more stopovers, I assume I won’t get my luggage when I get to my final destination,” he said. 

Nikita Kosholkin, co-founder and CMO of the tool App in the Air, told Fox News Digital that he personally is OK with a 45-minute layover, but also noted, “It’s better if it’s over an hour.” 

TRAVELING INTERNATIONALLY? IT COULD BE ILLEGAL TO BRING ALONG THESE MEDICATIONS, ACCORDING TO A PHARMACIST

“There is a limited amount of time that a bag can actually travel due to logistics at the airport,” he said. 

“Even if you can make your next flight, your bag might not.”

2. Don’t overpack

Packing lightly, even for a checked bag, can actually help ensure that a bag makes it to its destination, Jeremy Murchland, president of Seven Corners Travel Insurance, told Fox News Digital. The company is based in Indiana

A person who overpacks may wind up scrambling at the check-in gate to make sure a bag is under the weight limit — something Murchland said is “just asking for problems.” 

Airport travelers

Overweight bags can be taken to a different part of the airport, an expert told Fox News Digital — increasing the chance that it will get lost. (Mario Tama/Getty Images)

“You’ll lose items in the shuffle or perhaps damage them if they aren’t repacked securely. Plus, you’re now stuck juggling loose belongings that you might not have even needed in the first place,” he said.

Additionally, a bag that is oversized or heavy is not treated the same way as standard-sized bags, he said. Instead, it will be picked up at a different location at baggage claim. 

SUMMER TRAVEL: HOW TO PACK A CARRY-ON (AND NOTHING MORE!) THIS VACATION

“Any time your luggage has to be routed differently or go through a different process than normal, you run a higher risk of losing your bag, so stay within the recommended limits set by your airline,” he said. 

3. Make your bag look unique

Many suitcases look similar — which means that someone who is not careful may go home with someone else’s things. 

Girl traveling with suitcase through airport

Adding a luggage strap or sticker to a “basic black suitcase” can help make it stand out, multiple experts told Fox News Digital.  (iStock)

“After a transatlantic flight, everybody is tired, and it’s so easy to grab the wrong suitcases at the luggage carousel,” said Campbell. 

To avoid this, Campbell puts stickers on both sides of his “basic black suitcase,” as well as a yellow pompom — which he puts away as soon as he collects his bag. 

Dominic Brown, a Richmond-based food and travel blogger, also uses identifiers on his luggage. 

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“Whether I’m traveling domestically or abroad, I use luggage straps to ensure that my luggage does not get lost in the airport,” he told Fox News Digital in an email. 

These straps, he said, help make his suitcase stand out from other “basic colored suitcase sets.” 

Brown, who owns the website TallTravelEats, has traveled across several continents — and told Fox News Digital that since he began using luggage straps, he has not lost a bag during his travels. 

AirTag next to an iPhone with AirTag notification on screen

AirTags, or similar tracking products, can help a traveler find their bags after a long day of travel. (Apple)

But Brown warned that to avoid any surprises at the airport, a traveler should ensure that the luggage straps are TSA-approved. 

4. Use a GPS tracker

Another suggestion is that travelers consider using AirTags or other similar tracking products to make sure their bags make it onto the plane. 

AirTags, made by Apple, have to be set up with an iPhone or iPad, but the product can be tracked using an app that is available in the Google Play store. 

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

Other tracking devices such as Tile are not tied to a particular operating system. 

“Luggage will get lost, and often the airlines have no idea where it is,” said Campbell. 

“I want to help them out, so I use AirTags, so I can find a lost piece of luggage and show it to the airline.”

For more Lifestyle articles, visit www.foxnews.com/lifestyle

Like all technology, AirTags are not entirely perfect, said Campbell.

“The first time I [used an AirTag in a checked bag], I almost had a heart attack as I flew out of London, but my bags were still showing up in another part of Heathrow,” he said.

“Turns out, AirTags can’t update in parts of the airport where there is no signal.” 

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The 35+ best Walmart deals this weekend — Dyson, Nintendo, Samsung and more

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If you’re a Walmart fan (and the fact that you’re reading this suggests you may well be), June’s something of a blockbuster month for Walmart deals. On the 17th, Walmart+ Week begins, so you’ll be wanting to stock up on all manner of tech, housewares and pre-summer gear at big, big savings. For now, though, let’s turn our attention to something more pressing — Father’s Day! Don’t get caught empty-handed on the big day (which is next Sunday, btw). How about dazzling Dad with a brand-spanking-new Lenovo laptop? This one‘s nearly $300 off. Or maybe something more summer-specific, like a charcoal smoker (half price!) for the family grillmeister. Perhaps something for both of you — like this soundbar, which will spare you from hearing pops say “What’d he say?” umpteen times during family movie night. Could be the best $33 (down from $100!) you’ll ever spend. How’s that for a month of markdown-y goodness?

Walmart

Dad will be able to enjoy three different capabilities in this one compact appliance: a fire pit, a barbecue grill and, of course, a smoker. It features two tiers, so he can cook and smoke multiple items at once, with a damper system that makes it easy to control the heat level. There’s even a built-in thermometer that’ll let him know precisely what the cooking temps are.

$80 at Walmart

Walmart

With 8GB of RAM, 256 GB of onboard storage and a battery that can deliver up to 10 hours of work, play or time-killing on a single charge, this laptop is ideal for everyday use. A slim profile and a weight of only a few pounds make it superb for stuffing into a backpack or shoulder bag if dad’s working on the go.

$279 at Walmart

Walmart

For any dad who loves propane (and propane accessories), this fuel-powered griddle will be the perfect gift for him to take on all his outdoor expeditions … or just in the backyard for some tinkering around. With 362 square inches of cooking space, he’ll be able to whip up a sizzling meal for the whole family with total ease. 

$124 at Walmart

Walmart

This compact powerhouse is an all-encompassing ticket to storm preparedness, with one AC outlet, one USB-C port, two USB-A ports, one DC port and a built-in flashlight with a continuous lighting time of up to 68 hours. The remaining battery life is visible when charging, thanks to the digital display. It also comes with multiple power adapters, including one to allow in-car charging for any summer camping excursions.

$55 at Walmart

Walmart

Don’t let this vac’s lightweight construction fool you — it’s a cleaning powerhouse, whooshing up embedded dirt, dust and debris from every surface in your home with what we imagine would be a smile on its face. Its Helix dirt separation system helps keep filters fresh and new for longer, and five height settings allow cleaning on almost any surface.

$59 at Walmart

Walmart

Engineered for daily quick cleaning, this fan favorite takes on stubborn dirt and dust with ease. Its sleek design is a huge upgrade from those bulky dirt busters of yore, and it even transforms into a handheld for lifting debris from furniture and higher surfaces. And you’ll be pleased to know its filtration system traps allergens for more breathable air, especially handy if you are a pet owner. The biggest perk of all? It’s cordless!

$300 at Walmart

Walmart

This skinny little vac takes the hunt out of looking for dust. Thanks to a feature called Clean Sense IQ, the Cordless Pro Stick detects dirt you can’t see and automatically boosts power for up to 50% better dirt pickup. Pretty cool! The vacuum also converts easily to a handheld vac for above-floor cleanings like bookshelves, desks and cabinets.

$169 at Walmart

Walmart

Cracks, crevices and stubborn surfaces can’t elude the power and maneuverability of this lightweight handheld vac. Cleverly engineered, this 1.5-pound vac is great for “detailing” a room — catching all those spots that a broom and dustpan miss, making short work of any little mishaps. It even comes with a duster crevice tool for couches and car seats and a pet tool for sucking up pet hair without scuffing up hardwood floors.

$78 at Walmart

Walmart

What’s better than a garden? A tall, cascading garden — you can fit so much more in so much less space! Form meets function in this fetching showcase that’s large enough to fit a plethora of herbs, flowers and more. It takes just 15 minutes to assemble, and each level can support 20 pounds of your fave flora.

$65 at Walmart

Walmart

A little less Leatherface and a little more Polly Pocket, this compact cutie packs quite a punch. It’s battery-powered, so you can take it to the farthest reaches of your backyard, and it can slay wayward branches and spindly overgrown trees with ease.

$40 at Walmart

Walmart

With three different spaces, you can organize flowers and herbs just how you want them in this vertical planter. It’ll look great on a patio, porch or balcony while taking up very little real estate. Each pot has an internal partitioned layer with holes for excess water filtering, which helps prevent overwatering and root rot, and the entire unit is made for both indoor and outdoor use via its premium PP construction.

$55 at Walmart

Walmart

Tired of having to juggle all of your gardening tools while working around the yard? Struggle no more — this cute, collapsible covered wagon will fit just about anything you need, whether you’re getting your green thumb on or toting essentials to the beach. It can hold up to 330 pounds, so you can even wheel around the kiddos, with the added benefit of sun coverage from the removable roof!

$85 at Walmart

Walmart

Mosquitoes don’t have to ruin your summer — not when you have this award-winning zapper on hand! It’ll create a 20-foot protection zone around you, driving away the little buzzers and saving you from a summer full of bites and itching. It includes 12 hours of mosquito repellent, and you’ll get up to 5.5 hours of use out of a single charge.

$28 at Walmart

Walmart

Can’t pronounce that brand name? Who cares — the price and performance of these will leave you speechless anyway. They’re equipped with sensors that automatically turn them on when they detect motion — particularly handy when you get home after dark and can’t see a thing. Plus, they’ll illuminate the yard or driveway when you have guests over or have to let the dog out at night. Best of all? There’s no need for chargers or batteries — the sun will juice them up all day long.

$30 at Walmart

Walmart

Take shelter from the summer sun with this mega-wide shade-bringer — then kick back for an evening under the stars with its solar-powered LED lights. There are three colors to choose from, so you’re likely to find a match for your outdoor furniture — it’s also UV protective and water repellent.

$80 at Walmart

Walmart

Remember when you had to push a bulky, gas-guzzling monster across your yard just to trim the grass? Lawnmower technology has come a long way, and this powerhouse is at the top of the food chain. Ideal for smaller yards, it has a durable steel blade that cuts a 14-inch path, slicing each blade of grass with effortless precision. It’s lightweight and a breeze to steer, and its rear collection bag — 10.6 gallons — comes off easily so you can empty clippings without a mess. 

$162 at Walmart

Walmart

The Frame doesn’t go on sale super often, so we suggest you jump now if you’ve been looking to add a little artsiness to your entertainment setup. This TV looks great while in use, but a built-in motion sensor means it will turn into a rotating art display when not turned on. The border around the frame makes it look like a painting hanging on the wall, solving the pesky issue of what to do with your TV when you aren’t, y’know, watching it.

$798 at Walmart

Walmart

Ready to dive into some blockbusters? How about watching some summer baseball games? If you’re still not rocking a sufficiently brilliant set, let us introduce you to the Hisense 58-inch 4K Smart TV. The television has crisp, clear, high-def picture quality and comes with a Google Assistant button on the remote to help you find and stream thousands of movies and shows.

$258 at Walmart

Walmart

With its stunning 4K display, this TV has a lot going for it — starting with the $150-off price tag. Its 70 inches will make you feel totally immersed in whatever show, movie or game you turn on, which includes just about anything across both live TV and streaming apps, thanks to its built-in webOS capabilities.

$498 at Walmart

Walmart

The Switch is one of the best video game consoles out there, with its wide range of exclusive titles and ease of play for the whole family. This console comes with two motion-control ‘Joy-Con’ controllers on each side, which can be used separately or together as a unit. It’s a blast for people of all ages — not just the kids!

$283 at Walmart

TopVision

If you’re using only your TV’s built-in speakers for your audio, you’re probably missing part of the story. This inexpensive soundbar from Topvision will help fill in the audio gaps, giving you richer, fuller and clearer sound for a more immersive listening experience.

$33 at Walmart

Walmart

There’s nothing more frustrating than not being able to enjoy your favorite tunes by the pool or on the beach because your go-to speaker can’t handle a little bit of splashback. There’s a solution: This clever waterproof Bluetooth option, which you can take in the water with you. We don’t suggest submerging it, but throw it on a little floatie and let it do its thing — and you can enjoy it in the shower afterward! With up to 30 hours play time on a single charge, you’ll have this little wonder for wherever the day’s adventures take you.

$32 at Walmart

Walmart

No-nonsense and crazy affordable, this IdeaPad is perfect for anyone who wants to stay connected on the go — ideal for checking in to work when you’re out of office. You’ll benefit from all-day battery life on a single charge, a 720p camera for video calls and a Windows 11 package.

$320 at Walmart

Walmart

If you’ve ever looked at fancy hotel rainfall showers with envy, you’re just $46 away from upgrading your own to elite status — all you need is this 12-inch high-pressure shower head combo. It promises the “ultimate shower experience,” and we’d tend to agree, considering the multiple modes, additional handheld sprayer and anti-clogging nozzles.

$43 at Walmart

Walmart

It’s flying pest season — do you know where your bug zappers are? This handy plug-in model from Liba will help keep mosquitoes, fruit flies and other pests from buzzing around your head. There are no toxic chemicals involved, so you can rest assured that your family and pets will be totally unaffected by the zapper — but the bugs, well, they’ll be wiped out soon enough.

$13 at Walmart

Walmart

If your home cleaning arsenal needs a little oomph, look no further than this electric power scrubbing wand. It’s ideal for banishing stubborn stains, and it deep-cleans like a dream. It also includes varying handle-length options for reaching just about anything that needs de-griming.

$31 at Walmart

Walmart

Dray-o! Draaay-o! Summertime come and we wanna stay cool... If you too are swelter-averse, we suggest grabbing this inexpensive tower fan. It’ll effectively distribute airflow throughout your room with 90-degree oscillation and a unique air-duct design to minimize noise. 

$57 at Walmart

Walmart

Made of stainless steel, this machine is a stylish addition to any kitchen countertop or outdoor cooking space. (That’s right; it has a handle, so you can even bring it to cookouts or campsites.) Aesthetics aside, it can produce ice cubes faster than traditional freezers — you’ll get nine ice cubes in just nine minutes. Yeah, that’s pretty dang fast! And, thanks to its large water reservoir, it can produce up to 26 pounds of ice in one day.

$58 at Walmart

Walmart

Grill up some burgers rain or shine with this weather-proof wonder. Switch out the nonstick plates and it doubles as a griddle for cooking up pancakes, crepes and other delights. The family-size 14-inch cooktop means it’s large enough to feed the whole crew but is small enough to tuck away.

$79 at Walmart

Walmart

Slight in size but big in usefulness, the K-Slim + Iced serves up both hot coffee and brews over ice, so you can enjoy a warming cup by the firepit at night or a cool pick-me-up in the a.m. You can make up to four 8-ounce cups before needing to refill the water reservoir, and at less than 5 inches wide, you’ll barely notice it on your kitchen counter.

$87 at Walmart

Walmart

Whether you’re mixing up a smoothie or blending a slushy, you’ll do it with ease with this powerful little number. The 40-ounce glass jar is ideal for whipping up a slew of refreshing beverages — you’ll be the star of any cookout when you bring out a pitcher of summery sips.

$28 at Walmart

Walmart

Lifting support, but without the uncomfortable underwire? Sign us up! This bra has it all — gentle padding at the bottom of each cup for a natural boost, soft and comfortable fabric, and most important: no…wires…ever!

$13 at Walmart

Walmart

Hanes knows comfortable underwear, and this low-cost pack (just a buck and change per pair!) is proof. They offer a high waist with ultra-soft band that won’t pinch or bind; breathable, ring-spun cotton fabric; and all-day freshness courtesy of Cool Comfort wicking technology.

$12 at Walmart

Walmart

This mesh tote is a great way to bring all your essentials poolside or to the beach while ensuring that sand stays out and your valuables stay in. There are nine pockets for optimal organization — your flip-flops, keys, wallet, sunscreen, phone and more all have their own spot for easy accessibility. Choose from a variety of colors; the price varies slightly based on your selection, but you won’t be paying more than $11 for this beachy bag.

$11 at Walmart

Walmart

Crocs are a great option for summer, since they’re made from supportive Croslite foam — a water-friendly material that quickly sheds water whether your tootsies are wet from the sprinkler or just a little sweaty (we won’t judge). These slide sandals in particular are designed to ensure maximum comfort, so you can easily wear these all day, whether you’re checking off your to-do list or kicking back at the beach.

$24 at Walmart

Walmart

While there are many whitening strips on the market, these long-time standbys excel in their ability to take 15 years of even the most stubborn stains off your teeth, whitening your smile an insane 25 times better than a typical whitening toothpaste. Each kit comes with 28 whitening strips — half for your top teeth and the others for bottom teeth — for a total of 14 treatments that will only take you a half hour to complete. Crest promises that, with daily use, you’ll see results that last six months or longer.

$27 at Walmart

Walmart

Good oral care is important, but you can’t go to the dentist every day for a clean and fresh smile. That’s where this at-home de-gunker comes in — it sprays a steady but gentle stream of water at, and between, your teeth and gums to easily and painlessly remove 99.99% of food, buildup and stains. Plus, this pack comes with eight different floss heads, so you’ll be prepared for anything!

$26 at Walmart

Walmart

We can’t emphasize enough how important sunscreen is when spending more time outside, so be sure you’re stocked up for summer with a few different options, including this hardworking combo that functions as both a makeup primer and SPF 40 sunblock. Not only will it protect your skin from harmful UV rays, but it’ll keep you looking fresh and fabulous from morning till night.

$20 at Walmart

Walmart

Give new meaning to the term “beauty sleep” with this overnight moisturizer from L’Oreal! Just add it to your nightly skin care routine and it’ll nourish while you snooze. It tackles signs of aging, thanks to ingredients like pro-retinol and centella asiatica. Its rich yet non-greasy formula helps to lock in hydration, leaving skin softer and suppler than it was before.

$12 at Walmart

Want to save even more? Make sure you’ve got Walmart+. It’s easy to sign up for your free 30-day trial here. You’ll get free shipping and grocery delivery, savings on gas and prescriptions and exclusive access to major deals. (Those without Walmart+ still get free shipping on orders of $35 or more.)

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Trip.com Reveals 2024 Trip.Best Global and Asia 100 Rankings

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  • Hotel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel, voted as the top luxury hotel in the world
  • Asian attractions chosen as best things to do
  • Hot springs and ski resorts globally are top-of-mind for travellers
  • Singapore dominates the restaurant scene in Asia, with three-Michelin-star Odette as the best fine-dining restaurant in Asia

SHANGHAI, June 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Leading online travel service provider Trip.com has released its 2024 Trip.Best Global and Asia 100 lists, a collection of curated travel rankings based on real user reviews and year-round sales popularity. These Trip.Best lists enable global travellers to select the best experiences a destination has to offer, including hotels and attractions, as well as lifestyle choices such as restaurants and nightlife.


Top Hotels, Attractions, Nightlife, Restaurants and Destinations Make the List

The Global and Asia lists comprise different categories:

  • Hotels: 100 Luxury Hotels, 100 Family Hotels, 100 Cultural Hotels, 100 Scenic Hotels, 100 Villas, 100 Ski Hotels, 100 Instagrammable Hotels, 100 Hot Spring Hotels (Asia only)
  • Attractions: 100 Best Things to Do, 100 Family-friendly Attractions, 50 Hot Springs, 50 Ski Resorts
  • Nightlife: 100 Best Nightlife
  • Destinations: 100 Best Destinations
  • Restaurants (Asia only): 100 Fine Dining, 100 Local Restaurants, 100 Restaurants for Views & Experiences.


Paris took centre stage for the 2024 GLOBAL 100 Luxury Hotels list, with Hotel de Crillon, a Rosewood Hotel, taking the top spot. Le Bristol Paris – an Oetker Collection Hotel came in third while La Reserve Paris Hotel and Spa came in fifth. Raffles Singapore and Aman Tokyo came in second and fourth, respectively, to make up the top five luxury hotels globally.

In both lists, Asia offers a wealth of hotel recommendations for all types of travelers. Indonesia boasts luxury hotel Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape, as well as AYANA Villas Bali, one of the best villas in the region. Families will love child-friendly hotels such as Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast in Malaysia and Vinpearl Resort & Spa Nha Trang Bay in Vietnam. Travellers seeking cultural experiences can consider Sawasdee Village in Thailand, while those looking for a more scenic holiday can choose to stay at The Bellevue Resort in the Philippines known for its white beach views, or Karuizawa Prince Hotel West with some skiing in the mix.

With social media as a means of travel inspiration these days, some of the top Instagrammable hotels include Mai House Saigon Hotel in Vietnam and Good Nature Hotel Kyoto in Japan.

Asian attractions also took all top five spots on the 2024 GLOBAL 100 Best Things to Do list, with a strong showing from Universal Studios and Disneyland theme parks – Universal Beijing Resort, Shanghai Disney Resort, Hong Kong Disneyland, Universal Studios Japan, Universal Studio Singapore and Universal Studios Hollywood. In addition to theme parks being a key attraction in these destinations, museums also made it into the top 10, specifically The Palace Museum Hong Kong, the Louvre Museum in Paris and The British Museum in London.

The 2024 GLOBAL 50 Hot Springs list features the best hot springs from around the world, including Iceland’s Blue Lagoon, Japan’s Arima Onsen and Yufuin Onsen, the Travertines of Pamukkale in Turkey, as well as Queenstown Angson Barrel Hot Spring in New Zealand.

Travellers seeking a night out have declared the Empire State Building as the quintessential spot to immerse in the dazzling lights of New York City after dark. Paris and London offer plenty of popular nightlife options, including the Bateaux Mouches Paris Seine river cruise, the Eiffel Tower, the London Eye and Tower Bridge, all of which were voted in the top 10 of the 2024 GLOBAL 100 Nightlife list. Dubai’s Burj Khalife and The View at the Palm topped the 2024 ASIA 100 Nightlife list, with Xi’an’s “The Song of Everlasting” show, the Xi’an City Wall and Tang Paradise capping off the top five.


The spotlight is on Singapore when it comes to Asia’s best restaurants, with its entries taking first place across all three categories. Three-Michelin-star Odette leads the ASIA 100 Fine Dining list, along with Palm Beach Seafood as the number one local restaurant and Spago Dining Room by Wolfgang Puck as the best restaurant for views and experiences. The lists are presented by Trip.Gourmet, which aims to showcase the best dining options and local food culture globally for travellers and food lovers.

“Adhering to the principle of selecting the best from the best, Trip.Gourmet aims to create themed rankings that cater to different travel scenarios with ingenuity, especially as food becomes an increasingly important part of travel plans,” shared Sunny Sun, Vice President of Trip.com Group and CEO of Trip.Gourmet.



Looking ahead to the winter season, Switzerland remains the top destination for skiing, with Zermatt Ski Resort crowned the most popular ski resort globally. Japan dominated the 2024 Asia 50 Ski Resorts, with Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort, GALA Yuzawa Snow Resort, Furano Ski Resort and Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu taking up four of the top five spots.

The 2024 Trip.Best Global and Asia 100 lists are curated by examining various travel products on Trip.com and scoring them based on an algorithm. The rankings are based on real user reviews, year-round sales popularity, continuous quality assurance, and distinctive themes, covering worldwide and Asian hotels, attractions, night tours, food, and destinations. Trip.com selects hundreds of millions of data points and verifies word-of-mouth from people around the world, aiming to create fair, comprehensive, professional, and trustworthy travel rankings to solve users’ travel choice problems.

The full lists of rankings are available here.

Promoting Tourism with AI

The 2024 Trip.Best Global and Asia 100 lists highlight the best in various travel categories, which builds upon the AI-powered “Trip.Best” list on the app. “Trip.Best” is one example of the Group’s innovative use of AI, alongside other lists such as “Trip.Trends” and “Trip.Deals.”

  • Trip.Best showcases top global destinations.
  • Trip.Trends reveals the latest travel trends based on user searches across Trip.com, search engines, and social media.
  • Trip.Deals brings the best promotions to travellers.

The lists were unveiled at the 2024 Hunan International Cultural Tourism Festival Gala Dinner and Trip.Best Global Award Ceremony in Zhangjiajie on May 31. The event, attended by over 900 guests, including industry partners and tourism bureaus from more than 50 countries, celebrated the launch of the Trip.Best Global and Asia 100 lists, as well as the 2024 Trip.Trends 100 list.

Trip.Trends tracks the hottest travel topics and events, offering a glimpse into future trends. The 2024 Trip.Trends 100 list features newly opened hotels and attractions from 2023, giving travellers fresh and trendy options.

These curated lists are part of Trip.com’s vibrant content marketing strategy, designed to drive consumer awareness and provide relevant information for securing the best offerings and deals. For instance, Trip.Best inspires travellers to book their favourite properties, boosting traffic and bookings for hotel partners. This initiative propels Trip.com’s globalisation strategy, forging powerful alliances with global partners to deliver unparalleled, seamless travel experiences.

About Trip.com

Trip.com is an international one-stop travel service provider, available in 24 languages across 39 countries and regions in 35 local currencies. Trip.com has an extensive hotel and flight network consisting of more than 1.7 million hotels and flights from over 600 airlines covering 3,400 airports in 220 countries and regions around the globe. Trip.com‘s world-class 24/7 multilingual customer service, as well as additional centres in Edinburgh, Tokyo and Seoul, help to ‘create the best travel experience’ for its millions of customers worldwide. To book your next trip, visit trip.com.

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Cruises tend to be cheaper than hotel vacations, and that’s good news for these stocks

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Relais & Châteaux launches an #SOSforBiodiversity to Save Ocean Species

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PARIS, June 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Committed to the preservation of marine resources since 2009 alongside Ethic Ocean, the Relais & Châteaux Association has once again joined forces with the NGO by launching a new awareness campaign. The objective? To remove all overexploited species of seafood from Relais & Châteaux menus, starting with eel, and to prioritize sustainable species.

To view the Multimedia News Release, please click: 
https://www.multivu.com/players/uk/9272851-relais-et-chateaux-launches-sosforbiodiversity/ 

UN World Oceans Day: A commitment of many years to protect marine life
For the ninth consecutive year, Relais & Châteaux will celebrate World Oceans Day on June 8th with the collective appeal #SOSforBiodiversity. The not-for-profit Association has invited chefs to adapt their menus by removing overexploited species, such as eel, and selecting sustainable seafood. To raise awareness of this issue, Relais & Châteaux is highlighting the efforts of four chefs who embody this initiative.

Mauro Colagreco (Mirazur, Menton, France), Vice President, Chefs of Relais & Châteaux, highlighted: “As an Association, we can have a major influence on global culinary culture. It is urgent and vital to serve guests species which are not overfished, or which have been responsibly farmed with respect to the environment, the animals and the people involved.” 

#SOSforBiodiversity has been created to complement Ethic Ocean’s #EelNoThankYou campaign, which Relais & Châteaux joined at the end of 2023, when it mobilized its chefs around the world to save endangered eel species globally.

Chefs who set the tone

Pedro Subijana of Relais & Châteaux Akelarre (San Sebastian, Spain) and elected member of Relais & Châteaux’s World Culinary Council: “Typical Spanish dishes–such as those with elvers (juvenile eel) –are very important to our culture and heritage. But responsibility must go hand-in-hand with tradition. We must all pause serving and eating eel now to preserve it for future generations.” 

Vicky Lau of Relais & Châteaux Tate Dining Room (Hong Kong) and elected member of Relais & Châteaux’s World Culinary Council: “Many people think farmed eel is different from wild eel, when, in fact, wild juvenile eels are caught and then taken to be grown on farms. With the critical status of eels all over the world, this form of aquaculture can’t be considered sustainable.” 

David Toutain of Relais & Châteaux Restaurant David Toutain (Paris, France): “Our iconic dish has been eel since we opened the restaurant in 2013, but now we’ve replaced it with smoked herring. Fishing and all other causes of the European eel’s decline are issues that we need to be aware of in order to take action.” 

Michael Cimarusti of Relais & Châteaux Providence (Los Angeles, California, USA): “Eel is something that we have had on the menu from time to time at Providence but being a member of Relais & Châteaux and understanding the importance of protecting any species that’s endangered, we signed the pledge and decided to stop serving eel. Wild harvested eels are red listed pretty much all over the world.” 

Beyond eel, the ambition to ban all Red-Listed species

The figures are relentless: 35.4% of marine resources are overfished; illegal fishing represents 20% of global catch (between 11 and 26 million tons per year); and 35% of the world’s catch is rejected and released, often resulting in the animals’ death, without even being consumed. (Source: FAO)

In partnership with Ethic Ocean, Relais & Châteaux empowers its chefs to verify that their species choices are responsibly-sourced. This commitment to sustainable seafood goes beyond eel and covers all aquatic species, whether wild and farmed.

About Relais & Châteaux 

A MOVEMENT WITH MEANING

Relais & Châteaux, established in 1954, is an association of 580 unique hotels and restaurants throughout the world, owned and operated by independent entrepreneurs – most often families – who are passionate about their craft and deeply committed to forging warm, lasting relationships with their guests.

Relais & Châteaux members protect and promote the wealth and diversity of the world’s culinary and hospitality traditions, to ensure they continue to thrive. They are equally dedicated to preserving local heritage and the environment, as articulated in the association’s Vision presented to UNESCO in November 2014.

www.relaischateaux.com

About Ethic Ocean 

Ethic Ocean is a non-governmental environmental organization dedicated to the conservation of fisheries and marine ecosystems. Its mission is to create opportunities for change and help implement sustainable practices in the fisheries industry. Ethic Ocean works with all stakeholders to help them source species having stocks that are not overfished or which have been farmed responsibly. For more information, visit www.ethic-ocean.org.  

Contacts:
Lars Seifert, Chief Communications Officer, l.seifert@relaischateaux.com
Isabelle Guéguen, Head of PR & Influence, i.gueguen@relaischateaux.com 

David Toutain of Relais & Châteaux Restaurant David Toutain (Paris, France): “Our iconic dish has been eel since we opened the restaurant in 2013, but now we've replaced it with smoked herring. Fishing and all other causes of the European eel’s decline are issues that we need to be aware of in order to take action.”
David Toutain of Relais & Châteaux Restaurant David Toutain (Paris, France): “Our iconic dish has been eel since we opened the restaurant in 2013, but now we’ve replaced it with smoked herring. Fishing and all other causes of the European eel’s decline are issues that we need to be aware of in order to take action.”

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United Airlines starts serving passengers personalized ads on seat-back screens

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Passengers on a Boeing 737 Max-8 plane during a United Airlines flight departing from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in Newark, New Jersey, US, on Wednesday, March 13, 2024.

Bing Guan | Bloomberg | Getty Images

Now playing on United Airlines‘ seat-back screens: personalized ads.

The carrier on Friday said it launched a media platform to serve travelers personalized advertisements on seat-back screens and in its app, among other platforms, as it seeks to leverage customer data.

United said its new platform, Kinective Media, is already working with Norwegian Cruise Line, Macy’s, IHG Hotels & Resorts, TelevisaUnivision and JPMorgan Chase, which offers a host of co-branded credit cards with United.

The platform is the latest example of airlines trying to drum up new lines of revenue and leverage their lucrative loyalty programs. Delta Air Lines said in early 2023 that it would start offering free Wi-Fi to customers if they were registered members of its SkyMiles frequent flyer program.

“Unlike some commerce media platforms, United gives brands across a wide range of industries the ability to reach engaged customers throughout the entire marketing funnel — from brand consideration to conversion — in a way that’s highly personalized and relevant, and we’re already seeing impressive results,” Richard Nunn, CEO of United’s MileagePlus loyalty program, said in a news release.

United declined to provide projected sales from the initiative.

Customers can opt out of seeing targeted ads through a United web page, and United says advertisers can’t access customers’ personally identifiable information, the airline said.

“There is the potential for 3.5 hours of attention per traveler, based on average flight time,” United said.

The airline is in the midst of a massive upgrade of its narrow-body cabins, including its in-flight entertainment system with new screens and other features, though supply chain problems have delayed some of the aircraft revamps.

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Eva Longoria loves this $10 L’Oreal root touch-up spray to cover grays in seconds

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Are you finding gray hairs are growing in faster than you’d like? Well, you can shell out — big — for a salon treatment, risk touching up your roots at home or invest in a root touch-up spray for the days you want to look and feel your best. Way back during COVID quarantine, Eva Longoria opted for a root spray, when salon visits were off limits. She was impressed with the results, and so were we. The actress demonstrated her routine in a video, spraying L’Oreal Paris Magic Root Cover Up onto her part to camouflage silver strands. While lockdown may be behind us, it’s always a good time to save big on smart solutions. Magic Root’s now only $10 at Amazon, so you might want to consider trying it out for yourself.

Amazon

Eva Longoria’s favorite root touch-up spray is easy on the budget, and legions of Amazon shoppers swear by it for covering up grays.

$10 at Amazon

“If you’ve been following me, you know I’ve been going gray,” she said. “So I have my favorite solution, Magic Root Cover. This thing’s awesome because it has a little nozzle that makes it really specific. Look at how much gray I have and watch this.” Longoria sprays the product, in dark brown, from about six inches away. Her grays disappear almost immediately.

The Magic Root Cover Up is available in nine shades, opposed to the three that most brands offer, and conceals grays until your next shampoo. With thousands of five-star ratings, it’s also super-popular, and we can see why.

“It provides a nice lift to my hair which I love,” said this happy customer. “It truly last days without reapplying. I purchase this product regularly. I have dark brown hair and although the darker color is fine, I found the lighter medium brown worked well too.”

Another reviewer called it “the best gray concealer out there,” adding, “I’ve been using this line since it came out. I change from red to brunette and the colors match. It gets me through colorings, and being 50, it makes my hair look fuller, too. You won’t regret this product. It doesn’t smudge or drip.”

Eva Longoria

A whole nother kind of ‘viral’ sensation: Eva Longoria discovered L’Oreal’s Magic Root Cover Up during lockdown. (Getty Images)

“My hair grows almost 3/4 inch per month,” wrote another reviewer. “As a result, just two weeks after a salon visit, the gray at my part is already noticeable. This … is a godsend. It provides natural-looking coverage of those pesky grays between salon appointments. The directional spray nozzle makes accurate application a breeze.”

“Great product!” this five-star reviewer wrote. “Always a saver. When I can’t get to the salon to get my hair done this saved me so much, even when I didn’t go for like a month or two longer than I should’ve gone. You can always depend on this. And it really matches well with my hair. No one could really tell.”

“I got this to spray on the dreadful grays that show up in the part on the top of my head,” this reviewer said. “I hate paying the high prices at the salons, so I use this to hide the grays and extend the time between visits.”

This final fan called it “a staple I can’t live without,” though they did have one qualm: “My only slight complaint is that it kind of feels tacky to the touch on your hair.”

L’Oréal Paris

Reviewers say this spray has a benefit that goes beyond root touch-ups: It helps thinning hair look thicker. 

$10 at Amazon

Another celeb-beloved hair product? This Nioxin thickening kit. The brand counts Alyssa Milano among its fans.

Amazon

Wishing for a fuller mane? This Alyssa Milano-approved Nioxin kit includes shampoo, conditioner, a scalp treatment and a thickening spray — all specially formulated to fight thinning hair.

“This product has been great,” shared a satisfied shopper. “Less hair found in [my] brush. Seems to be working great with less hair loss.”

$62 at Amazon

If you have Amazon Prime, you’ll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here. (And by the way, those without Prime still get free shipping on orders of $25 or more.)

The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.

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