‘Bare Beating’ Might Be The Most Irritating Public Habit Right Now

Posted on 22/02/2026 by Boris Clair

Have you ever been trapped on a train carriage with someone watching TikToks from their phone without headphones? Or seated on a plane by a passenger blasting music? Or even stuck in a doctor’s office waiting room as a fellow patient broadcasts radio commentary on a sports stream?

If so, you’ve experienced what some call “bare beating”. This term refers to the act of playing music, videos, podcasts or other audio out loud in public without headphones – essentially treating shared space like a personal living room.

“This. Is. Rude. There just is no other way to slice it,” said Nick Leighton, an etiquette expert and host of the Were You Raised by Wolves? podcast.

“You’re imposing your choices on a captive audience. Nobody decided they wanted to listen to that YouTube video, and yet here we are all having to endure it without our consent.”

Jodi R.R. Smith, the president of Mannersmith Etiquette Consulting, agreed, emphasising that bare beating is “unequivocally rude”.

“The presumption that everyone wants to listen to what you are listening to is simply unacceptable,” she said. “This is doubly so if others are unable to move away from you – at work, in an elevator, on public transportation, etc.”

In those tight quarters, what might even seem like low or moderate volume to you can feel disruptive to someone sitting inches away.

“Whether the distraction is visual, or noise related, when someone is intruding on another person’s public space, it’s not easy to look away and ignore,” said Diane Gottsman, the author of Modern Etiquette for a Better Life and founder of The Protocol School of Texas.

“Think of it this way: if a child was doing it in a public space, tight quarters or a restaurant, others would be annoyed and blame the parents for not adjusting the behaviour. When an adult does the same thing, it’s important for them to self adjust and be respectful of others in close proximity.”

Children might get grace for this behaviour because they aren’t as aware of social norms, but for adults who should know better, it’s simply rude. And depending on where you are, it might even be subject to legal penalties.

“Some people just aren’t mindful of how their behaviour affects others and simply have no idea how far phone speakers can carry sound,” Leighton said. “Spoiler alert: It’s way farther than you think.”

Are you guilty of "bare beating" in public? Here's what etiquette experts think of the "unequivocally rude" behavior. — Are you guilty of “bare beating” in public? Here’s what etiquette experts think of the “unequivocally rude” behavior.

Indeed, “bare beaters” don’t necessarily have negative intent and are sometimes blissfully unaware.

“The reason people are doing this is because they are trying to pass the time or may not even realise their volume is offensive,” Gottsman said. “But when you’re sitting inches away from another person, even lower noises are amplified.”

There may even sometimes be understandable reasons for the behaviour. Someone with hearing difficulties may not realise how loud their device is, or they may be experiencing technical issues. Still, Gottsman said, unless it’s an emergency, the courteous move is to wait to listen to the audio when you’re in private.

“Of course, using earbuds and utilising captions is a reasonable option,” she added.

And while bare beating feels like a modern behaviour, it’s not entirely new.

“Forcing strangers to become your unwilling audience has been an issue that’s plagued humanity since the dawn of time,” Leighton said.

Smith pointed out that methods and norms have shifted over the decades.

“Back in the ’80s, being a DJ to those in your surrounding area was actually considered the norm,” she said.

“The person with the giant boombox would play it so that everyone nearby could enjoy the sound,” she said.

“But times change and nearly everyone has the ability to listen to what they like almost anywhere – so long as they are wearing headphones or earbuds.”

For those who flout modern etiquette rules by bare beating, sometimes all it takes is a gentle nudge.

Smith recalled a recent experience at an airport gate where a man was loudly streaming a soccer game on his phone as it was time to board.

“After a few minutes, I turned and asked him what he was watching,” she said. “He excitedly told me his favourite team was playing. I told him that I was having a hard time hearing the boarding announcements and asked if he could use earbuds. He gave his head a quick shake and looked around sheepishly.

“He had not realised how loud his phone was or how many people were giving him ‘the look.’ He apologised to me and the others around him as he put in his earbuds.”

Still, Gottsman emphasised that deciding whether to speak up is a judgment call.

“Is it rude to intrude on other people‘s personal space? The answer is yes,” she said. “But understand that we cannot determine another person‘s reaction, and if you can ignore it for a very short subway ride, it’s probably best to do so.”

Regardless of whether you choose to confront someone over this behaviour, the important thing is to avoid bare beating yourself. Remember: Just because you can press play doesn’t mean everyone else signed up to listen.

Six Things You Should Know Before Travelling Abroad For Surgery

Posted on 21/02/2026 by Boris Clair

Around 523,000 people from the UK travelled abroad for surgery in 2024, with the most popular destinations for ‘medical tourism’ being Turkey, Poland and Romania, according to data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

People might travel abroad for treatments such as dental and cosmetic surgery, cancer treatment, weight loss surgery, fertility treatment, organ transplants and stem cell therapy, according to experts at TravelHealthPro.

“Transgender travellers may seek hormone therapy and gender reassignment surgery abroad,” they added.

The growth in medical tourism appears to stem from a mixture of factors, including higher disposable incomes, increased readiness to travel for health care, low-cost air travel and the expansion of internet marketing, TravelHealthPro said.

NHS waiting lists have also been growing in recent years, though NHS England noted it delivered more elective activity in 2025 than any other year in its history, “helping cut the waiting list to its lowest level since February 2023”.

If you’re one of the many people tempted to go abroad for surgery or treatment, Qian Huang, international claims manager at William Russell, has shared some key considerations below.

What you need to know before travelling abroad for surgery

“The idea of having surgery abroad can be nerve-wracking, particularly when it comes to questions of safety,” Huang said.

“Many people considering surgery abroad decide not to go because of concerns about safety, the quality of the medical care, or not understanding the foreign healthcare system.

“However, in reality, many international hospitals and clinics follow standards of care that match or exceed those found in the UK, US, or Europe. The key is knowing what to look for.”

How to find an accredited hospital abroad

Medical accreditations are a key indicator of a hospital’s commitment to international standards.

One of the most widely recognised is the Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation, often considered the global gold standard, which evaluates hospitals on areas such as infection prevention, medication safety, staff training, patient communication, and emergency readiness.

To find an accredited hospital abroad, patients can check official accreditation bodies’ websites, verify information on hospital websites, contact the facility directly, or consult medical tourism networks and national health authorities.

What to check before booking surgery

To steer clear of issues, Huang shared six factors to be aware of before booking surgery abroad.

1. Lack of accreditation or vague claims

“Be wary of hospitals that mention ‘world-class standards’ without naming an actual accrediting body,” he said. “Reputable facilities will proudly display credentials from recognised organisations like JCI, ACHSI, or Temos.”

2. ‘Too good to be true’ pricing

Competitive pricing is probably one of the top reasons people consider surgery abroad, but Huang warned ultra-low prices should raise alarm bells.

Check the qualifications of the surgeon, what’s included in the cost, and whether the aftercare and follow-up appointments are covered, he added.

3. Poor communication or pressure tactics

If you’re struggling to get clear answers from the hospital or feel rushed into making a decision, consider taking a step back. Trustworthy providers are transparent, patient, and more than happy to talk you through the details.

4. No clear aftercare plan

Recovery is just as important as the procedure itself. A good hospital will give you a personalised aftercare plan, including advice on travel, medication, and any physical restrictions, before you agree to surgery.

5. Inconsistent or missing reviews

Take the time to search for independent reviews and testimonials before considering which hospital to have the surgery at. A complete lack of online feedback, or reviews that sound overly scripted, can be a red flag.

6. Limited information about the surgical team

When researching your hospital, you should be able to find the names, qualifications, and experience of the surgeons who’ll be treating you. If this information is unavailable or unclear, you need to proceed with caution.

Psychologists Say Your Airplane Seat Choice Reveals Way More Than You Realise About Your Personality

Posted on 08/02/2026 by Boris Clair

As I settled in for the 17-hour flight from Australia to the United States, I turned to the vacant seat between my wife and me and smiled. While other passengers might have thought it was a stroke of luck, they didn’t know this was deliberate. It was the result of my seat selection obsession.

The ritual starts the moment I book a flight: I check legroom measurements and read seat reviews, then study the airline’s seat map to predict which seats will stay open. There are rules: I go for an aisle seat on the right side of the aircraft, and on wide-body planes with a 3-3-3 configuration, I pick one in the middle section.

Even after I’ve locked in my seat, I can’t stop. In the days leading up to departure, I’m refreshing the “Manage My Booking” page, monitoring which seats fill up, debating whether to switch to 12D or stick with 11D.

Turns out, plenty of travelers have their own versions of this routine. Some travelers insist on the same side of the plane every time. Others will only sit in odd-numbered rows. A few refresh seat maps obsessively, fixated on bathroom proximity or meal service order.

Performance psychology specialist Sam Wones said this quirk runs deeper than seat preference. “It reflects a need for control in environments where individuals feel they lack it,” he explained. “Ritualistic actions like seat-map checking can reduce anxiety about the unknown.”

When everything about air travel feels chaotic, securing a specific seat sends a signal to your nervous system that something is manageable.

These rituals can be remarkably specific. Georgia Hopkins, a freelance travel writer, only sits in odd-numbered rows: 11A ideally, or 13A/15A if that’s taken. Rows 12 or 14 simply don’t exist in her world. “I can’t do even numbers. If not 11, I have to sit in an odd-numbered row,” she said. She also insists on a window seat as far forward as possible, so she boards earlier, exits faster and is served first.

Row 25. Always row 25. Amanda Kendle is so committed to this specific row that she will not change it, even if a better option opens up. Not because it has extra legroom or is closer to the exit, but because it is her lucky number.

“Some part of my anxious flyer mentality tells me if I change my seat, the plane will crash and my original seat would have been safer,” she explained. When traveling with her teenage daughter, who insists on a window seat, Kendle still claims row 25; she just takes the middle instead of the aisle. Her flexibility still operates within strict boundaries.

Your plane seat preference might reveal a lot about you, according to travelers and experts.

These rituals feel personal, even irrational. Chris Lipp, a social psychologist at Tulane University who studies power dynamics, said they expose how confident we feel in public spaces.

“People who feel more powerful are less sensitive to sitting next to someone,” Lipp explained. “They’re comfortable with less interpersonal space, less worried about others encroaching on their space, and less vigilant because they don’t feel threatened by others.”

The dreaded middle seat, which most people avoid, illustrates this power dynamic. Lipp notes that powerful people can tolerate it. They will claim both armrests without hesitation, exuding a confidence that likely extends beyond the cabin. Anxious travellers either guard the armrest like a border wall or avoid it completely to prevent any contact.

Seat location also reflects travellers’ approach to control and efficiency, Wones says. Front-of-plane passengers want to disembark quickly and avoid feeling trapped, valuing efficiency and a faster process. Back-of-plane flyers operate differently. They’re more relaxed about waiting, less concerned with being first off the aircraft and often actively avoid the chaos of the front rows. Neither preference is inherently better, but they reflect different tolerances for waiting.

Beyond front vs. back, another choice reveals personality: window or aisle. Wones said introverts gravitate toward window seats for privacy and control, while extroverts prefer aisle seats for mobility and easier interaction.

Lisa Burns, founder of The Travel Photography Club, understands this completely. On a flight from Tokyo to Helsinki over the Arctic Circle, she ended up in an aisle seat with the window passenger asleep, shutter closed. “All I could imagine were icebergs and glaciers below,” she said. “I had to practice deep breathing because it took so much self-control not to lean across and look out the window.” For a travel photographer, being trapped on the aisle meant missing exactly what she needed to see.

I’m firmly in the aisle camp, though my reasons are less about interaction and more about autonomy. I can move whenever I want without performing a gymnastics routine to climb over a sleeping passenger or getting the side-eye when I’m up and down for the third time in an hour. On a long flight, this freedom matters. Maybe it makes me someone who needs to feel in charge of something, even if it’s just bathroom breaks. Or perhaps I just drink too much water.

My right-side preference has a practical foundation. Analysis of Air Canada and American Airlines seat data shows passengers disproportionately choose the left side, which means the right side offers better odds of an empty seat beside me.

Wones said that once you unconsciously favour one side, your brain locks onto it. “Some people unconsciously favour one side due to how their brain processes spatial awareness or comfort,” he explained. Maybe it felt slightly better once, or you had a good flight on that side. The reason doesn’t matter. Once the pattern exists, you stick with it, even when both sides are identical. It becomes less about logic and more about what feels right.

If you’re reading this thinking, who obsesses over seats?, that reaction itself reveals something, according to Wones. Strategic planners are highly conscientious and prefer control. Acceptors are more adaptable, with lower anxiety and a higher tolerance for uncertainty.

When my wife catches me refreshing the seat map days before a flight, she thinks I’m ridiculous. She’s probably right. But 17 hours squeezed into economy with an empty seat next to us? That’s when ridiculous becomes genius.

‘Inheritourism’ Explains Why People Travel The Way They Do

Posted on 07/02/2026 by Boris Clair

“Land snorkelling.”

“Sleepcations.”

“Noctourism.”

There’s a seemingly endless array of quippy terms to describe rising travel trends and preferences.

One particularly interesting term is “inheritourism”, which really gets to the heart of why different individuals travel the way that they do and how family plays a role.

Below, travel experts break down the meaning of “inheritourism”, as well as the benefits and drawbacks of this holiday phenomenon.

What is ‘inheritourism’?

“Inheritourism reflects how travel preferences are passed down across generations,” said Jess Petitt, senior vice president or strategy, insights and full service brands at Hilton.

“Many people inherit travel preferences from their parents, with family experiences often shaping how people travel well into adulthood.”

A 2026 travel report from Hilton identified “inheritourism” as a notable trend for the new year – with 66% of travellers surveyed by the hotel brand saying that their parents have influenced their choice of accommodations, 60% saying they guided their choice of loyalty programs and 73% saying they shaped their general travel style.

“I think inheritourism shows up most clearly in how people define what ‘comfortable’ travel looks like,” said travel blogger Esther Susag. “Many travellers inherit not just destinations, but entire travel styles from their parents. For example, I often notice that people who grew up only doing cruises or all-inclusive resorts tend to gravitate back to those formats as adults.”

Travellers accustomed to the ease of having everything in one place might be more hesitant to go off the beaten path with independent accommodations, hidden gem destinations or locations that require more planning or cultural navigation.

“That same pattern extends into how people pay for travel,” Susag said. “I’ve noticed that travellers whose parents used travel credit cards and understood points and miles tend to feel much more comfortable navigating loyalty programs and booking elevated experiences. On the other hand, people who grew up saving for years for one big trip and paying mostly in cash or with a single credit card often carry that same cautious mindset forward and are hesitant to open multiple cards or experiment with points strategies.”

She added that many parents remain deeply involved in their adult children’s travel decisions, often financing trips with their own loyalty points or preferred brands. Multigenerational travel is increasingly popular, thus exposing new generations to the same kinds of choices.

“Over time, that becomes their baseline for what travel ‘should’ look like,” Susag said. “As travel has become more expensive and more intentional, people are less willing to experiment and more likely to stick with what they know works. That often means repeating the travel patterns they grew up with, whether that’s specific destinations, hotel brands or trip formats.”

It’s only natural that people who grew up vacationing in a certain way as children would adopt similar travel behaviors as adults.

It’s only natural that people who grew up travelling in a certain way as children would adopt similar preferences. Katy Nastro, a spokesperson and travel expert for the flight alert service Going, pointed to the cliché “the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree”.

“I personally grew up going to warm beach destinations to escape the New York winter every February,” Nastro said. “I wholeheartedly believe that the desire for a warmer weather destination during the month of February versus a cold weather trip is not just a preference but is now a personality trait inherited from my family travels as a child.”

She believes the same pattern is evident in the families attracted to “the magic of Disney” with Disney theme parks vacations over multiple generations. Our early memories can inform what we find meaningful and rewarding as we grow up.

“My family chooses the mountains over the beach always, because it’s where I grew up vacationing – and if you ask me, it’s just better,” Petitt said. “Those experiences are also what I’m excited to share with my kids, building on those memories. If we never visit a beach as a family, that would be OK by me.”

Family travel habits strongly influence people’s choices – but is that a good thing?

“Any travel is beneficial in my opinion,” Nastro said. “And in theory, inheritourism can create generational travel because people are inclined to continue the tradition of travel to a certain place, hotel, etc. The only downside may be that this perpetuates a blinder affect where people don’t tend to branch away from what they know, and thus never really explore beyond their comfort zone.”

She added that inheritourism might lead people to miss out on good deals if they can’t look beyond the specific brands or locations they’ve “inherited”.

“Travellers may avoid less popular destinations or more immersive experiences because they feel less predictable or convenient,” Susag said. “That said, awareness is growing, and many people are starting to challenge those habits once they realise there are other ways to travel that still feel safe and rewarding.”

Overall, she sees a mix of downsides and benefits to the influence of inheritourism today.

“On the positive side, inheritourism makes travel more accessible and lowers the barrier to entry for a lot of people,” Susag said. “It also encourages multigenerational travel and shared experiences, which can be incredibly meaningful.”

Inheritourism can serve as “a foundation, rather than a fixed path,” she emphasised. Travellers can carry forward meaningful traditions but also cultivate their own.

“People tend to start by recreating the trips and habits they grew up with, then adapt them as their confidence grows and their priorities shift,” Susag said. “Whether that means exploring less traditional destinations, traveling more independently or becoming more intentional about how they spend on travel, many travellers eventually build on what they inherited rather than abandoning it altogether.”

As in other areas of life, parents tend to set the norms and serve as trusted sources for young adults as they make decisions.

“In a world of digital overwhelm and an abundance of choice, travellers are looking to their inner circle to inform their travel decisions,” Petitt said.

“When seeking an experience beyond what is familiar, inherited preferences and trusted travel habits serve as a starting point for discovering something new. The key is balance – while inheritourism offers comfort and confidence, the greatest benefit comes when those familiar influences open the door to exploration, rather than limit it.”

Sick Of Waiting For A Wedding, Single People Are ‘Solo Honeymooning’

Posted on 06/02/2026 by Boris Clair

I’m going to be honest: I find travelling with other people pretty draining.

There’s the compromise. There’s constantly being “on”. There’s the horrifying prospect of someone you love seeing you at your post-airport worst, and the nightmarish possibility of being expected to talk on a plane.

So I’ll admit I’m sympathetic with TikTok’s “solo honeymoon” trend, which cuts arguments, different itineraries, and “active vs resting” holiday discrepancies completely out of the question.

Instead, “solo honeymooners” – often single people who are sick of waiting ’til they find a spouse to enjoy their dream honeymoon – are taking matters into their own hands.

Here, experts from TrustedHousesitters shared how to achieve the perfect one.

What is a “solo honeymoon”?

It’s basically booking a holiday by yourself, but the term seems to have helped some TikTokers to navigate the feelings and motives behind solo travel.

In one video, an app user said she’s calling her trip to Bali a solo honeymoon because “while I’m not married to a human being, I am kind of married to my work”.

She decided to give herself a break after closing an important business project.

Yet another person said they were “travelling to a honeymoon destination as a very single person” because “you don’t have to wait until you’re in a relationship to go somewhere”.

He added, “I never thought I’d be here single, but here I am”.

“Let’s normalise single people taking themselves on a honeymoon,” a separate video stated.

Commenters often said they wish they’d felt OK doing something like that sooner. “I should’ve done this after I finished my master’s degree,” an app user wrote: “You have no idea how you have encouraged me to do let go of the fear and do this,” another stated.

And in response to a TikToker’s video about taking a safari trip for her “solo honeymoon,” a commenter wrote, “This was my honeymoon idea, and now I’m like F it I need to go.”

How can I plan a “solo honeymoon”?

Trusted Housesitter advised people seeking a “solo honeymoon” to consider the following:

Checking flight times: “For those who love sitting back for a long time with a book, make the most of the solo flying time and travel long haul, but if you’re a little more on the nervous side, choose a shorter, familiar route to start your me-moon stress-free.”
Checking the area’s safety: “Make sure to research ahead and make sure where you head to has good contact points.”
Planning activities in advance: “Many activities are designed for couples or groups. So make sure you won’t face extra costs, and don’t be deterred if something is marketed primarily to pairs or groups; you can still participate and enjoy the experience.”
Not worrying about others’ expectations: “Plan activities that support your own well-being. Whether it’s spa treatments, meditation sessions, hiking, or simply time to read and reflect, tailor your itinerary around what makes you feel recharged and happy.”
Choosing accommodation carefully: “Think about the type of place you want to stay and whether it will enhance your self-care.”

This Underrated Italian City Is A Dream Destination For Cheese Lovers

Posted on 24/01/2026 by Boris Clair

With a last name like Bologna, I suppose I shouldn’t be surprised that I am one of many Italian Americans who love travelling to “Il Bel Paese”. Italy is by far my most-visited destination outside the United States, and I’ve been fortunate to spend time in eight of the country’s 20 regions.

Although delicious foods are available in abundance across Italy, I recently explored an area that should probably be high up on cheese lovers’ travel bucket lists: Parma.

As you might’ve deduced, Parma – along with its neighbour Reggio Emilia – is the namesake of the beloved hard cheese, Parmigiano Reggiano.

The so-called “king of cheeses” can, in fact, only be legally produced under that name in those two provinces, plus Modena, Mantova and Bologna.

The Parmigiano Reggiano moment

It’s no secret that Parmigiano Reggiano is having a moment, finding its way into headlines (and bellies) around the world. This past November, news broke that United Talent Agency had signed the Parmigiano Reggiano Consortium to help place the cheese in movies and shows and raise awareness about these official products.

That came just two months after the governing body for the Italian cheese announced a strategic partnership with the New York Jets football team – an initiative that included stadium concession offerings, video segments and more.

Around the 2024 Paris Olympics, Parmigiano Reggiano also made waves as fans of Italian gymnast Giorgia Villa discovered her previous sponsorship deal with the consortium – complete with amazing photos of the athlete posing with big wheels of cheese. (Whether we’ll be seeing more cheese-y sponsorships at the upcoming Milan-Cortina Olympics remains to be seen, but given the host location and the consortium’s PR push, the synergy feels almost inevitable.)

My visit to Parma included a stop at Azienda Agricola Bertinelli, a family-owned dairy that offers Parmigiano Reggiano tastings and tours to educate visitors about the production process behind this highly regulated cheese.

With protein’s dominance in our culture, the cheese is getting extra attention for its naturally high protein content. Italian scientists have published studies highlighting the health benefits of authentic Parmigiano Reggiano.

And then there are the seemingly endless social media videos of mouthwatering pasta prepared in hollowed-out wheels of Parmigiano Reggiano tableside at restaurants and in home kitchens. The Italian brainrot trend naturally featured a “Parmigiano” character as well.

I was pumped to visit the home of the king of cheeses in Parma, a lovely province and city in Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region.

Despite its world-famous food exports, Parma still flies under the radar compared to flashier Italian destinations that dominate most itineraries, like Florence, Rome and Venice. And as it turns out, there’s plenty to do there beyond stuffing your face with dairy goodness.

What to eat in Parma

Reaching Parma is fairly easy. You can drive from Milan in less than two hours or take the train from many destinations around Italy, including Milan, Bologna, Florence, Venice and more. The train station was a breezy stroll to the centre of the action and the whole city felt very walkable.

As the first Italian destination to earn UNESCO’s “City of Gastronomy” title, Parma is unsurprisingly filled with excellent eateries. I had great multi-course meals at Cortex and Croce di Malta, wine and snacks at Tra L’uss e L’asa and Tabarro, and sandwiches at Pepen and Bel Grano Focaccia.

Other restaurants recommended by locals in town included Osteria del 36, Ombre Rosse, Ristorante Cocchi, Trattoria Corrieri and Trattoria del Tribunale.

Cured meat and torta fritta are local staples.

In the broader province of Parma, I dined at Trattoria Antichi Sapori, Al Vedel and Trattoria Ai Due Platani. But the most exciting stop was Azienda Agricola Bertinelli, a family-owned dairy that offers Parmigiano Reggiano tastings and tours to educate visitors about the production process behind this highly regulated cheese.

Indeed, authentic Parmigiano Reggiano can only be made using three ingredients: raw cow’s milk, salt and rennet. Each wheel is aged for a minimum of 12 months, with most varieties on the market aged between 24 and 36 months.

Beyond the cheese, Parma’s rich food culture also centres on the iconic Prosciutto di Parma and highly-prized Culatello di Zibello, aka the “king of salumi” – a rare cured meat that’s aged in a pig’s bladder. Cold cuts in the province are often served with torta fritta, a puffy fried dough.

I had the chance to try Culatello di Zibello and “Duchess of Parma” cake.

Local restaurants tend to offer tortelli d’erbetta (pasta stuffed with cheese and greens), anolini in brodo (beef-filled pasta in broth) and a minced horse meat delicacy known as caval pist.

Other highlights of a Parma trip

Although my Parma visit understandably centred around food, I also took some time to explore the history of the city and province in between meals.

The Palazzo della Pilotta complex houses multiple interesting museums and sites, including the National Gallery of Parma, the National Archaeological Museum and the Bodoni Museum. The Palatina Library is particularly stunning, as is the wooden Farnese Theater, one of the largest baroque theatres in Europe.

Beyond food, visitors to Parma can check out sites like the Palatina Library and Parma Cathedral.

Just across the street is the Glauco Lombardi Museum, a unique museum featuring personal belongings and items related to the life and times of Napoleon’s second wife, Marie Louise, Duchess of Parma. I fittingly followed my visit with a mini “Duchess of Parma” cake at a nearby cafe called San Biagio.

The impressive Parma Cathedral and octagonal baptistery next door were also worthwhile stops on my trip. The same goes for the Correggio frescoes in the former Monastery of San Paolo.

And I enjoyed strolling the Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi and Parco Ducale in the afternoons, embracing the “slow travel” ethos and getting a real feel for the city.

I ventured to Modena to try some authentic balsamic vinegar and then strolled around Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi back in Parma.

Visitors to Parma can also add stops in other parts of the Emilia-Romagna region or plan a few easy half-day jaunts. I visited a small balsamic vinegar producer, Acetaia di Giorgio, in Modena and had lunch at the Michelin-starred Osteria del Viandante in Reggio Emilia. Many people also add in the Ferrari and Lamborghini museum experiences as well.

At a time when overtourism is straining destinations like Florence, Rome, Venice and the Amalfi Coast, travellers craving a relaxing and authentic Italian experience might want to consider adding Parma to their itineraries.

And if travel budgets are tight, a taste of real Parmigiano Reggiano at home may also help scratch the itch in the meantime.

Take Inspiration From How Christmas Is Celebrated Around The World

Posted on 24/12/2025 by Boris Clair

In a time when many of us are opting to create our own Christmas traditions, finding inspiration from around the globe to sprinkle into your own life could be just the festive magic you’re looking for.

After all, this is a celebration that happens in so many places internationally, why would you not want to invoke Christmas spirit in new (to you) ways that could even revive the holiday if you’ve been feeling a bit miserly in recent years?

Plus, you can brag about being cultured, a little Christmas gift to yourself.

How Christmas is celebrated in places around the world

Ježíšek in Prague at Christmas

Prague City Adventures explains: “I have lived with Santa Claus visiting on Christmas Eve night since I could understand what a holiday was. No such fat jolly person visits here. Instead the gifts are brought by Ježíšek, or baby Jesus.

They went on to explain that though this sounds religious, Prague is largely atheist and this is real Christmas magic in action, adding: “Ježíšek is magic. He is the bringer of toys and fun though I suspect he also brings new underwear, something parents claim you need, and no one wants for Christmas.

“Under the Communist regime there was an attempt to replace Ježíšek with a Santa like figure known as Děda Mráz (Grandfather Frost) but he never had as big of a following as baby Jesus.”

Ježíšek also drops off gifts during Christmas dinner and rings a bell to let the family know that he’s finished, which I can only imagine results in a stampede of children racing to unwrap their presents.

Christmas Eve feast in Brazil

According to World Holiday Traditions: “Following [Christmas Eve mass], families gather for a traditional Christmas Eve dinner, typically served around 10 PM. The meal is a festive spread that reflects Brazil’s diverse culinary heritage.

“It usually includes roasted turkey, ham, various salads, and fresh tropical fruits. A signature dish is rice cooked with raisins, accompanied by farofa—seasoned manioc flour that adds a distinctive flavour and texture to the meal.”

KFC in Japan

Japan Rail Pass says: “Every Christmas, an estimated 3.6 million Japanese families get their holiday meal from none other than Kentucky Fried Chicken. Somehow this tradition is one of the most sacred and one that really embodies the Japanese Christmas spirit.

“The demand is so high that people start placing their orders for the special Christmas menu six weeks in advance. And the wait in line on Christmas day is so long that it takes hours for people to get their meal. In short, doing Christmas the Japanese way means a visit to the Colonel!”

KFC is closed on Christmas Day in the UK but you could definitely make your own at home…

Visiting ancestors in Finland

On Christmas Eve in Finland, cemeteries across the country are lit up with candles placed by people paying their respects to ancestors.

Speaking to This Is Finland, Risto Lehto, who manages six cemeteries run by the Parish Union of Helsinki said: “As many as three-quarters of Finnish families visit a cemetery at Christmas, mostly on Christmas Eve, and we even have to make special traffic arrangements to accommodate the crowds.”

For those who don’t have a loved one buried in the cemetery, there is a space for lighting candles in memorium for loved ones. A quiet moment of reflection before the chaos of the big day itself.

The Rudest Things You Can Do While Deplaning

Posted on 22/11/2025 by Boris Clair

Air travel does not typically bring out the best in people. The stress of tight connections, long lines, cramped cabins and general transit fatigue can push even the calmest travelers to their limits.

But that doesn’t mean you have to add to the unpleasantness. Indeed, there are many things passengers do that make the flight experience worse for their fellow travellers – from the airport to boarding and even deplaning.

On the latter front, the lack of courtesy has gotten particularly dire.

“It’s like a cattle call to both get on the plane and then get off,” said August Abbott, an etiquette expert with JustAnswer. “It’s embarrassing to the whole human race to see otherwise caring, helpful and patient people lose all sense of their humanity and seemingly revert to instinctive behaviour and act like animals fighting for survival.”

To help improve the situation, HuffPost asked etiquette experts to share some common rude behaviours during the deplaning process. Read on for eight faux pas and what you should do instead.

Not waiting your turn

“It’s important to be courteous to fellow passengers, and waiting for your row to deplane is the most obvious and courteous behaviour,” said Diane Gottsman, an etiquette expert, author of Modern Etiquette for a Better Life and founder of The Protocol School of Texas.

There’s a term for people who immediately stand and rush up the aisle the moment the plane arrives at the gate: aisle lice. You don’t want to be part of this group.

In instances of major delays, the flight crew often asks passengers who aren’t making tight connections to stay seated and allow those in a rush to deplane first. So if you’ve arrived at your final destination, show courtesy by respecting that request.

Otherwise, Gottsman advised not assuming you’re the only one with a connection.

“If you are running late for another flight, so are the people in front of you and behind you,” she said. “If you need assistance, you can ask a flight attendant.”

Ignoring flight crew requests around tight connections

As noted, in the event of a long delay, flight attendants may ask those who are arriving at their final destination or have ample time to make their next flight to stay seated and allow those with shorter windows the chance to deplane first.

“If a nearby passenger has a very tight connection, it is kind to allow them to exit as quickly as possible,” said Jodi R.R. Smith, president of Mannersmith Etiquette Consulting.

Those who’ve been in this situation know that passengers don’t always heed the request, however, which is a very inconsiderate behaviour.

Being unprepared and holding everyone up

“Let’s face it. Even on short commuter flights, everyone wants to be off the plane,” Smith said. “Gather your belongings so you are ready when it is your turn to deplane.”

She pointed to “clogging the aisle” as a deplaning faux pas many passengers commit. “It is their turn to exit and they just start looking about for their belongings.”

Travelers who aren’t prepared to deplane when it’s their turn should allow others to pass them, Smith added.

“Be ready when it’s time for your row,” echoed Nick Leighton, an etiquette expert and cohost of the “Were You Raised by Wolves?” podcast. “It’s no secret when you’re next. Be prepared!”

Smith recommended taking a moment after landing to look around your seat.

“Check for anything that may have come out of your carry-on,” Smith advised. “Do you have your phone, snack containers, water bottle, book, etc.?”

Shoving into the crowded aisle

Smith noted that “trying to push into an already crowded aisle” is another rude deplaning behaviour.

“You should allow the row ahead of you to clear before you deplane,” she said. “It certainly is fine to stand in the aisle if there is space, but shoving is not going to speed your departure.”

If standing at your seat is uncomfortable, you can always sit back down and have your under-seat belongings ready to go on your lap. There’s no need to push anyone out of the way.

“Is shoving your way to the front so you can save 10 seconds really worth it? Probably not!” Leighton noted.

Taking bags down from the overhead bin with nowhere to put them

Just as you shouldn’t shove your body into the aisle when it’s already full of people, you should refrain from adding luggage into the mix if there’s nowhere to put it.

As Smith noted, another rude behaviour is “insisting on taking down items from the overhead bin when there is no physical space to put them yet.”

Of course, everyone needs to retrieve their luggage eventually ― just wait until there’s actually room to safely manoeuvre. Timing is everything.

Whacking people with your things

“Be aware when you do remove bags from the overhead bins,” Smith said. “It is never polite to hit another passenger in the head with your luggage.”

Spatial awareness is hugely important when it comes to courtesy and consideration toward others.

“Try to be conscious of your space,” Smith advised. “Whipping your backpack or bag onto your back while standing in a crowded aisle is bound to create issues.”

Leaving a mess behind

Don’t treat the plane like your personal bin. If you missed the trash collection before landing, don’t leave it to the crew to clean up the mess.

“Nowadays, it is polite to assist the crew in turning over your plane,” Smith said. “Armrests up, shades down – especially in warm climates – and seat belt crossed. Any of your remaining trash, wrappers, empty drinks and certainly used tissues, should be carried with you into the terminal for proper disposal.”

Complaining without helping

“One of the most rude and offensive behaviours is complaining about someone struggling to collect their carry-ons – instead of just helping them,” Abbott said. “Is it that much easier to rant and rage than to be kind and caring?”

Before complaining, travellers who are able to assist their fellow passenger with a tricky overhead bag manoeuvre should offer to help, or try to find someone else who can.

“Shame on those growing impatient with the speed that those ahead of you are setting due to struggles no one is helping them with,” Abbott said.

This 2026 Bookish Travel Trend Could Improve Your Mental Health

Posted on 15/11/2025 by Boris Clair

In all the chaos of the world, isn’t it lovely that reading is becoming cool again? As we reported earlier this year, Google searches for “book club” are at their highest in years, and Eventbrite say the number of book club events on the platform has increased by 350% since 2020.

Now, in their Unpack′26 report, the leading travel experts at Expedia reveal that ‘Readaways’ are surging in popularity ahead of 2026 travel.

Working in collaboration with holiday rental site Vrbo, they found that 91% of travellers admit that for 2026 trips, they’re interested in taking a trip centred around reading, relaxation and quality time with loved ones.

So, what is a ‘Readaway’ really?

So, it’s more than just taking some books abroad which is of course incredibly common. ‘Beach Reads’ are called that for a reason, right?

“It’s not new to take a stack of books on vacation, and that’s not what Readaways are,” says Melanie Fish, VP of Communications at Expedia Group.

“These are restful retreats shared with fellow book-lovers, where the real adventures unfold on the page – from a quiet corner in a cozy library, a porch swing, or a pool lounger.”

Reading on a porch swing while sipping a coffee and enjoying the outdoors in comfort? Isn’t that literally the dream?

It isn’t always quite countryside trips, either

Ben McLeod, General Manager at hotel The Social Hub in Glasgow says: “I always ask people why they’re visiting, and more and more I hear that they just want to get away from it all and get lost in a book or two. People are really looking for ways to switch off and step away from their phones.

“Traditionally, you might think people would head to the countryside to read, but while our lobby is busy and there’s always loads of different things happening, I’m always struck by how many guests I see immersed in a book. There’s something special about slowing down in the middle of a busy city.”

Reading is also great for your mental health

If, like me, you are one of the 25% of people in the UK that live with mental health issues, a trip like this may be exactly what you need for a little relief. Studies have indicated that reading can enhance social, mental, emotional and psychological wellbeing.

It also increases resilience and wellbeing for older people, so much so that the Mental Health Foundation recommends reading books and playing musical instruments as a way to preserve mental health in old age.

I will be BOOKing (get it) my own trip very soon.

Line Of Duty Star Vicky McClure Teases A New Project With Her Co-Stars

Posted on 22/10/2025 by Boris Clair

Another day, another 24 hours wishing and waiting for our nerves to be destroyed with a new series of Line Of Duty, one of the best British cop dramas to ever do it.

Since the last series wrapped in 2021, viewers have been eagerly awaiting news of a seventh season, but so far there hasn’t been any solid confirmation either way from the cast or creator, Jed Mercurio.

Now, Vicky McClure – who played main character Kate Fleming in the show – has spoken about where she’s at in terms of Line Of Duty’s future, teasing a potential reunion with her co-stars, though not in the way viewers might expect.

In a new interview with the Radio Times, Vicky said she didn’t have any updates regarding the return (or not) of the show, but added: “I don’t want to give anyone any false hope. We’ve all been very clear that we’d absolutely love to do another series.”

Line Of Duty also starred Adrian Dunbar and Martin Compston as Ted Hastings and Steve Arnott respectively, who together with Kate formed the anti-corruption unit AC-12, given the unpopular job of ‘policing the police’ to weed out corrupt officers.

And while Vicky might not have delivered the news fans were hoping for, she did tease a potential collaboration with her co-stars that sounds more Place In The Sun than police procedural.

“Adrian, Martin and I have been talking about doing a travel show together,” she said. “If any of us ever has any spare time, we’ll do it. Line of Duty gave us two brilliant things – our careers and our friendship.”

Vicky, Martin and Adrian would join a long list of celebrities who have taken to documenting their travels for TV, with everyone from Jack Whitehall to Gordon Ramsay appearing on our screens in the growing format.

In fact, Martin himself has already starred in his own travel show, with his BBC Fling miniseries taking him to Scotland and Norway, meaning he’d be well-prepared to lead the charge in a Line Of Duty travel reunion.

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