The wife of the president, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Saturday called on the Muslim faithful to also remember to extend a hand of fellowship to those in need as they celebrate Eid-el-Fitr 2025. “May the blessings of Ramadan bring harmony to our nation and strengthen the bonds that unite us as one people,” Mrs Tinubu…
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The Oyo State College of Nursing Sciences has urged all fresh intakes to apply for the student loan from the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND). Speaking with the new intakes at the college over the weekend, the Provost, Dr. Gbonjubola Owolabi, disclosed that the federal government, through NELFUND provided student loans. Owolabi said the loan…
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The Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA), on Saturday, deployed 400 officers to ensure the free flow of traffic during the Eid-el-Fitr celebration. The Chairman, OYRTMA, Major Adekoya Adesagba (rtd.), announced the deployment while addressing officers in Ibadan. Adesagba said the deployment of 400 personnel was aimed at ensuring smooth traffic flow before, during,…
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Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, on Saturday, felicitated the Muslim Ummah in Oyo State and across the country on the occasion of Eid-el-Fitri 2025. The governor congratulated the Muslim faithful on the successful completion of the 2025 Ramadan. Makinde, who hailed the Muslim faithful for their endurance, faith, sacrifices, and trust in Allah throughout…
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The Northern Elders Forum (NEF), on Saturday, issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Edo State Government and the Federal Government following the brutal mob attack that led to the killing of innocent Northern hunters in Uromi, Edo State. The victims were reportedly returning home to celebrate the end of Ramadan and Eid Kabir with their…
A manager at Tesco was dismissed after he paid a junior colleague for shifts she never worked after they started dating. Abdi Abdullah wanted to help out with Bianca Tordai’s finances by paying her for fictitious Sunday shifts. The pair entered into a relationship and she admitted she saw the “benefits” of dating a boss. However, an employment tribunal in South London heard that Ms Tordai then eventually became “afraid” to break up with Mr Abdullah due to the control he had over her salary.
Shortly after they did broke up, her income dropped which prompted her to raise a grievance against the Tesco manager. Subsequently, he was sacked for gross misconduct. Mr Abdullah then took his former employer to the tribunal on the grounds of unfair dismissal, race and religion discrimination and race harassment. His claims were thrown out by a judge who believed his sacking to be “fair” due to the “very serious nature” of the allegations against him.
The former supermarket manager started working at Tesco’s Croydon Fulfilment Centre in 2003. 16 years later in December 2019, Mr Abdullah entered into a secret relationship with Mss Tordai who was recognised by the company as an “up-and-coming talent”.
She was put forward for a promotion and was sent on a placement from October to December the following year. During this period, she was overpaid, the tribunal heard. In the same year, the employee was also paid for a number of Sundays she had not worked between August and September.
The tribunal said: “[Mr Abdullah] knew he was authorising payments to Ms Tordai, with whom he was having a secret relationship at the time, so as to inflate her earnings.”
Upon returning to work in January 2021, he and Ms Tordai were no longer in a relationship. In April 2021, she requested a meeting with a different manager who she told about the relationship.
The tribunal heard that he allegedly told her he had “control over her earnings” and that there would be “trouble” for her if they ever broke up. Ms Tordai did admit to seeing the “benefits” of the relationship after her wage increase, but became “afraid” to end it due to his comments.
Ms Tordai raised a formal grievance in April 2021 and Mr Abdullah was asked to attend an investigation meeting based on three allegations against him. The former manager claimed he “didn’t see anything wrong” with the relationship, insisting it didn’t “influence [his] decision making”. He also denied any “coercive behaviour” but was let go on on May 21.
Amid what President Trump calls his ‘war on woke’ – rolling back diversity and inclusion efforts, filmmakers across the world are fighting to make sure that representation still matters.
For nearly forty years, the British Film Institute has been hosting BFI: Flare, showcasing queer cinema from around the world.
We’ve been meeting some of the directors and creatives behind the 2025 edition.
Big Gossey (7/1) won the Lester Piggott Gladness Stakes (Listed) at The Curragh on Saturday.
The course specialist, ridden by Billy Lee, came home a half-length winner over 2024 French Group 1-winner Camille Pissarro (3/1), with the runner-up’s stable companion Officer (13/2) next in third.
Big Gossey, winning at The Curragh for the seventh time for trainer Charles O’Brien, has now 10 career successes from five to seven furlongs.
Camille Pissarro, winner of the Qatar Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere at ParisLongchamp last season for Aidan O’Brien, was ridden today by Ryan Moore.
The son of Wootton Bassett, held off his fellow Coolmore partners-owned Ballydoyle inmate, Officer, a son of Dubawi out of the quality mare Hydrangea, by half a length.
Winning favourites
Miami Destination (9/4 favourite) won The Shouldvebeenaring New For 2025 At The Irish National Stud Irish EBF Maiden under Wayne Lordan.
Trained by Adrian Murray for Giselle De Agular, the two-year-old daughter of Ten Sovereigns, held off the challenge of Oh Cecelia (7/2) and James Ryan by a neck. There was a further half-length back to Noodles (5/1) and Ronan Whelan in third.
Two Stars (85/40 favourite) was the second winning market leader of the day, when taking the Tote Never Beaten By SP Handicap. Trained by Fozzy Stack, the previous twice flat winner, was ridden by Joey Sheridan.
Betsen (16/1) was the second runner-up of the day for Jack Davidson, two and three-quarter lengths behind the winner. Stag Night (6/1) and Nathan Cross were third home, another length and half behind.
Wins for Sheila Lavery and Joseph O’Brien
Pickersgill (4/1) obliged for Robbie Colgan in the Visit The Irish National Stud & Gardens Maiden. Beaten four lengths by Saracen when second on her previous outing, the three-year-old daughter of Starspangledbanner is trained by Sheila Lavery for John Lavery.
Mathan justified 1/2 favouritism when taking the Follow @Toteracing on X Maiden for Joseph O’Brien. Ridden by stable jockey Dylan Browne McMonagle, the winner had a cosy three and a quarter length success at the line from Dmaniac (28/1) in the hands of Wayne Hassett.
The Aidan O’Brien-handled debutant, Monkstown (9/2), a full-brother to Group 3 runner-up Samuel Colt and who cost €300,000 as a yearling, crossed the line a further two and a quarter lengths back in third, under jockey Ryan Moore.
Cromwell and Feane successes
JM’S Joy got Gary Carroll and Gavin Cromwell on the board this afternoon, winning the Irish Stallion Farms EBF 3YO Spring Series Media Auction Maiden at 11/2.
Indigo Five (3/1) won the level for the third time in his career with success in the Tote Guarantee Available On Course Handicap. Trained by Johnny Feane, the six-year-old was ridden by Wesley Joyce.
Technology entrepreneur Tom Adeyoola has been named as the government’s preferred candidate to head Innovate UK, the country’s £1.1 billion-a-year innovation agency, at a pivotal moment for the organisation.
The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology confirmed that Adeyoola, 47, is in line to replace Indro Mukerjee in the £195,000-a-year role. The appointment comes as Innovate UK faces renewed scrutiny over its spending and future direction amid a broader government spending review.
The agency plays a key role in supporting the UK’s research and development ecosystem, working with 450,000 organisations annually and helping to unlock hundreds of millions in private-sector investment. However, pressure on public finances has already led to the suspension of its £25 million-a-year Smart Grants scheme pending a review of its effectiveness.
Adeyoola founded virtual fitting room startup Metail in 2008, growing it into a leading digital fashion tech player before selling it in 2019 to TAL Apparel. Since then, he has held advisory and non-executive roles — including his current position on the board of Channel 4, where he advises on technology and innovation.
Lord Vallance, science minister, said: “With his experience in technology, entrepreneurship, and digital transformation, Tom Adeyoola is the right person to ensure Innovate UK delivers real impact — backing pioneering businesses, scaling up breakthrough innovations and ensuring the UK leads in the industries of the future.”
His appointment comes as debate continues over Innovate UK’s future funding model. Critics, including Cambridge entrepreneur and BAE Systems board member Ewan Kirk, have argued the agency should move from a grant-focused model to a more investment-led approach.
“Innovate UK is a good idea, but badly executed,” Kirk said last year. “The incoming chair should transform it into more of an investment-led organisation.”
Innovate UK’s Business Group programme supported 10,600 businesses last year, helping them to secure £674 million in private funding and sustain more than 6,700 jobs. Around a third of the agency’s annual budget is spent on maintaining nine sector-specific “catapult” centres — R&D hubs for fields ranging from gene therapy and medicine discovery to advanced manufacturing and energy systems.
Acting chair Stella Peace will continue to oversee Innovate UK’s strategic initiatives in health and agriculture until Adeyoola’s appointment is confirmed.
Adeyoola’s leadership will be closely watched as the agency seeks to maintain momentum in supporting British innovation while adapting to shifting fiscal priorities and increasing calls for reform.
Frasers Group has voted to block Boohoo’s attempt to change its holding company name to Debenhams, escalating a long-running feud between the UK retail giants.
The move, led by Mike Ashley’s group, which owns a 27 per cent stake in Boohoo, effectively prevented the resolution from passing at a general meeting on Friday. The motion required at least 66 per cent of shareholder approval but was defeated after 38 per cent of votes were cast against it.
Boohoo, which acquired the Debenhams brand out of administration in 2021, said it would continue to rebrand as Debenhams Group regardless of the result. The company’s ticker symbol will change to DEBS on the London Stock Exchange from Monday, although its listed name will remain Boohoo Group Plc.
Frasers Group’s CFO Chris Wootton defended the decision, saying: “When Boohoo stops destroying shareholder value, Frasers Group as its biggest shareholder will be happy to support its proposals.”
Boohoo hit back, accusing Frasers of acting in its “own self-interest”, and noting that “it was no surprise to the board that Frasers, a major competitor to the group, has voted against the resolution”.
Dan Finley, CEO of Boohoo, remained bullish despite the vote: “Debenhams is back, and we continue to move forward as Debenhams Group. The successful turnaround of Debenhams is the blueprint for the turnaround of the wider group. Our best days are ahead of us and I am excited for our future.”
The attempted rebrand comes amid pressure on Boohoo’s core fast-fashion business, which has been hit by falling sales, supply chain issues, and questions over governance. The company believes leveraging the heritage and trust in the Debenhams brand could revitalise its wider portfolio.
The latest clash follows a failed attempt last year by Frasers to install Mike Ashley and restructuring expert Mike Lennon on Boohoo’s board. Shareholders rejected the proposals, including a separate motion to remove Boohoo founder Mahmud Kamani as a director.
Despite their adversarial history, Frasers now insists it is seeking “constructive engagement” with Boohoo and reiterated its desire for Lennon to be granted a board seat.
“We do not see them as a major competitor to any part of our business,” the group said — a claim that will do little to mask the deepening tensions between two of Britain’s most prominent fashion retailers.
Jamie Young
Jamie is Senior Reporter at Business Matters, bringing over a decade of experience in UK SME business reporting.
Jamie holds a degree in Business Administration and regularly participates in industry conferences and workshops.
When not reporting on the latest business developments, Jamie is passionate about mentoring up-and-coming journalists and entrepreneurs to inspire the next generation of business leaders.
The UK’s £8 billion-a-year R&D tax credit scheme is facing a major shake-up as the government moves to tackle widespread fraud and error while improving accessibility for genuine claimants.
Proposals outlined in a consultation published alongside the Spring Statement suggest that businesses may soon be required to obtain formal pre-approval — or “advance assurance” — for research and development (R&D) claims before submitting them to HMRC. Currently a voluntary option, advance assurance is used by relatively few companies.
The proposed reforms are also a response to criticism from entrepreneurs and employer groups, who say the scheme has become increasingly difficult to navigate due to heightened compliance scrutiny. Some legitimate businesses report being denied support or asked to repay funds, while poorly reviewed claims continue to slip through.
“Non-compliant claims are sometimes made in the hope that HMRC will not identify them,” the government said. “Mandatory assurances in areas with a high degree of non-compliance may be the best way to meet our objectives of reducing fraud, improving customer experience and offering certainty to businesses.”
Scrutiny of R&D claims has increased significantly since 2022. The proportion of claims being checked rose from 10 per cent to 17 per cent in the past year. HMRC now has over 500 staff dedicated to R&D compliance — a five-fold increase from 2020.
The tax credit scheme, designed to incentivise innovation in science and technology, has come under fire after a 2022 Times investigation uncovered widespread abuse. Some advisors were found encouraging dubious claims, including tax relief for a vegan menu at a pub. Since then, HMRC has been under pressure to strengthen oversight without stifling genuine innovation.
Rufus Meakin, author of the R&D Tax Credit Insider blog, welcomed the proposal as “a step in the right direction” but cautioned that HMRC still lacks the technical expertise required to assess claims across a diverse range of sectors.
Carrie Rutland, R&D tax partner at accountancy firm BDO, added: “This would go a long way to tackling the high prevalence of fraud and error we’ve seen. But HMRC must be properly resourced with qualified R&D inspectors to process assurance requests quickly — otherwise the system risks grinding to a standstill.”
While advance assurance could reduce uncertainty for companies and offer a clearer path through the claims process, the success of the reform will hinge on HMRC’s ability to deliver both technical rigour and efficiency in implementation.
The consultation is part of a broader push to simplify and safeguard one of the UK’s most significant business tax incentives — one seen as vital to driving investment in innovation at a time of low productivity and global competition.
Jamie Young
Jamie is Senior Reporter at Business Matters, bringing over a decade of experience in UK SME business reporting.
Jamie holds a degree in Business Administration and regularly participates in industry conferences and workshops.
When not reporting on the latest business developments, Jamie is passionate about mentoring up-and-coming journalists and entrepreneurs to inspire the next generation of business leaders.
Apprenticeship and workplace training provider Multiverse has posted a 29 per cent rise in sales to £58.4 million for the year ending March 2024, but its losses also deepened, underscoring the high cost of its rapid expansion.
Founded by Euan Blair, son of former Prime Minister Sir Tony Blair, the company reported pre-tax losses of £60.6 million — up from £45 million the previous year — as administrative expenses surged from £77.5 million to £106.1 million.
The business, which was valued at £1.4 billion in a 2022 funding round, said the growth was fuelled by increasing demand from businesses seeking AI-focused training programmes and a broader range of industries embracing apprenticeship-led workforce development. Its AI-related programmes now account for roughly one-third of UK sales.
Multiverse also completed the acquisition of Searchlight, a San Francisco-based AI business, during the year. The integration of its technology has contributed to a rise in gross profit margins, which climbed from 66 per cent to 72 per cent.
“We’re training everyone from doctors and nurses through to administrators, operations managers, and others to use data to improve patient care, triage faster, and reduce wait times,” said Blair.
One of the fastest-growing demographics for Multiverse is employees aged over 45 — a reflection, Blair noted, of the increasing need to adapt mid-career workers for the AI-driven workplace.
Blair said technology alone will not be enough to transform productivity in the public or private sectors without a strong focus on reskilling. “There’s a long history of large government spends on technology not delivering,” he said. “Unless we get the skills and adoption component right, it’s not going to make the meaningful difference we need.”
Despite widening losses, Multiverse remains well-funded with net assets of £131 million and a cash balance of £135.3 million, giving it substantial runway for future growth. The business continues to position itself at the heart of the UK’s digital skills revolution — but must now prove it can translate sales momentum into sustainable profitability.
Paul Jones
Harvard alumni and former New York Times journalist. Editor of Business Matters for over 15 years, the UKs largest business magazine. I am also head of Capital Business Media’s automotive division working for clients such as Red Bull Racing, Honda, Aston Martin and Infiniti.
I hated everything about my mum fostering from day one (Picture: Getty Images/Connect Images)
My world was turned upside down when two strangers came to live with us.
It was a calm, blissful Sunday in 1999 when two boys under the age of 10 turned up randomly on our doorstep.
All they had with them were rucksacks and a black bag of toys each. Meanwhile, the adults accompanying them held a pile of paperwork.
I didn’t understand what was happening at first, then, as they loitered around the dining room and the adults left, the penny dropped.
These were the new foster children that were moving in. I was mortified.
This had all come about shortly after my mum and dad divorced in 1998.
Since the split, Mum had made it clear that she was unable to pay the bills alone and so had been thinking about fostering as something she ‘might have to do’ to help matters.
All foster parents receive an allowance to help cover the cost of caring for a child. Depending on factors such as where you live, the child’s age etc, this figure is usually somewhere between £165 and £289 per week – money that my mum said we desperately needed.
I was only in my early teens at the time but still remember thinking that this was an odd solution. I couldn’t understand why she wouldn’t just take my dad to court for child support or demand him pay the necessary bills instead of bringing strangers into our home. But Mum’s mind was made up.
I hated everything about my mum fostering from day one.
Mum was unable to pay the bills alone and so had been thinking about fostering to help matters (Picture: Getty Images)
No one had asked me how I felt about these strangers descending and quite quickly the boys confirmed my worst fears: my mum had been assigned the ‘hard to place’ children.
These children had come from unstable or toxic environments and though they would only stay a few months at a time, that was more than enough time for damage to be done – I became a stranger in my own home.
I would come in from school and find the doors to the dining room and kitchen closed, if I went in those rooms it was like I was interrupting their entertainment, their space.
I had no say over what to watch on the TV because they were always there first and at times, say if my brother needed our shared room for some peace and quiet, I had nowhere in the house to go. It was truly awful.
Mum also became an angry person.
Because she never taught them to respect the contents of the house, and worked late hours so was never there to supervise, these kids took over the entire house, emptied all the food in the cupboard and ran riot unmanned.
Unsurprisingly, the place quickly began to look like a pigsty and suddenly the only conversations I had with mum were made up of her yelling and screaming at the state of the house.
Mum also became an angry person (Picture: Getty Images)
She’d also remind me to ‘fix my attitude’ because those children were effectively keeping the roof over our heads.
Those boys left after around a year but were soon replaced by more kids. The problem was Mum had zero criteria for whom she let into her home. That meant that the children we were given were often unpredictable and sometimes dangerous.
At one point she fostered a pregnant teenage girl and her baby. However, whenever Mum was at work, the girl would go out and leave the crying baby behind. She even asked me to watch her baby once when I was around 14 so that she could go have sex in a car outside.
Then there was the boy who refused to wash himself. Not only did he stink out the whole house every day, he stole all Mum’s jewellery from her bedroom.
Mum was oblivious to all of this but there were times when my brother and I tried to confront her about how miserable we were and how unsafe we felt.
However, instead of listening to us, she would become defensive, nasty and cold. She’d say they could leave but then we would live on the streets. She manipulated us into thinking this was the only way to survive.
Degrees of Separation
This series aims to offer a nuanced look at familial estrangement.
Estrangement is not a one-size-fits-all situation, and we want to give voice to those who’ve been through it themselves.
If you’ve experienced estrangement personally and want to share your story, you can email jess.austin@metro.co.uk
For just over a decade I put up with this, but eventually, when I was 25, I could afford to move out and start fresh.
I had found a flat on top of a wine shop and it wasn’t very big, but was perfect for me. At first, I was worried about how I would manage all the bills independently, as I was in a very low paid job, but I was just happy to have my own space.
For years, we never addressed and discussed this as a family. It just became something we swept under the rug. But then in 2022, my brother voiced his opinion in the sibling WhatsApp chat.
He talked about how his childhood was ruined by the foster children and even said that my mum wasn’t a good parent. I agreed with him wholeheartedly and decided to take this as my cue to voice my opinion too – saying it felt like she placed the importance of paying her bills over the safety of her own flesh and blood.
My brother voiced his opinion about Mum’s fostering in the sibling WhatsApp chat (Picture: Getty Images)
We both then shared some scenarios – such as foster kids stealing our clothes, or the kid who would spit in the cups we would drink from.
To my horror, my other brother and sister jumped to mum’s defence. ‘She was doing the best she could.’ they said, despite the fact that my brother spent the whole time high, and my sister moved out soon after it started.
And then all hell broke loose.
Someone then shared what my brother and I had mentioned to Mum, and she reacted with vitriol.
She barraged my brother with message after message saying he was ungrateful and berating him for never saying anything at the time (even though we had). She began slating me in the messages too, saying I deserted her in her time of need.
Our relationship will never be what a mother/son relationship should be – that ship sailed long ago
Perhaps the worst message I saw though was the one where she said she should have left us at the hospital as babies.
For years I’d felt like she’d failed as a parent, now, with that comment, I wasn’t even sure she ever wanted to be our mother.
I don’t know how any child is supposed to get past a parent saying something like that, so for a long time, we simply didn’t. Both me and my brother cut all contact with our mum and other siblings and I didn’t talk to any of them for three years.
During this period, I grappled with the guilt of severed ties while also relishing the freedom to define my identity independently. It was both agonising and liberating to be apart from them and family gatherings and holidays were now just hollow memories that echoed in my heart.
Eventually, after countless therapy sessions and soul-searching conversations, I realised, though Mum’s logic at becoming a foster carer was flawed and led to my ultimately dismal childhood, I still missed having her in my life.
That’s why, last Christmas, driven by a yearning for connection and reconciliation, I made the decision to reach back out to my family.
I texted my mum, asking what she was doing for Christmas, and she asked me if I wanted to come over.
We ended up spending Christmas Day together and while that day was fraught with feelings of both apprehension and nostalgia, seeing familiar faces, sharing laughter, and engaging in old traditions was surprisingly heartwarming.
While I haven’t heard from my mum since then, my relationship with my siblings has shown signs of recovery and we are all slowly rebuilding the trust that had been shattered.
It’s been tough having to accept that my relationship with my mum will never be loving one, yet I’m still hoping for continued healing and open communication.
But the simple fact is our relationship will never be what a mother/son relationship should be. That ship sailed long ago, when she repeatedly chose strangers over me.
As a native New Yorker, I can smell a tourist trap from miles away. (Times Square, anyone?)
That said, the term has garnered somewhat of a negative connotation ― but in all honesty, many of these locations are actually worth a visit at least once. Think about it like this: They’re considered attractions for a reason. They offer views or experiences that can only be found in that specific location.
We’ve rounded up a few options below. Sure, there are crowds. Sure, they might be corny. But they’re also 100% worth considering for your next vacation.
1. Mount Rushmore
Tetra Images via Getty Images
Ever since I saw Mount Rushmore in a picture book when I was a child, I knew it was somewhere I wanted to visit.
Located in South Dakota, Mount Rushmoreis home to the popular 60-foot memorial featuring the faces of four former presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln.
Over 2 million people visit Mount Rushmore each year, so you’re bound to run into crowds, but even if it’s just to snap a quick picture, it’s well worth it to see this historical monument. While you’re there, check out the Avenue of Flags or take a hike on the mile-long Blackberry Trail. If you’re visiting during the summer, end your day by watching the light ceremony that takes place every night starting the Friday of Memorial Day weekend.
2. The Eiffel Tower
While you can see the Eiffel Tower from different vantage points around Paris, your trip isn’t truly complete without making a proper visit.
On my most recent trip to Paris, the Eiffel Towerwas packed even at 8 a.m. You’ll potentially be waiting in two- to three-hour lines to get tickets and enter the building, but the wait is worth it. I highly recommend getting a GoCity pass where you can book different attraction tickets and guided tours — it’s the easiest way to see the city if you don’t know your way around.
The view of the city is absolutely breathtaking and you’ll see areas you may not even get to explore during your visit. Keep in mind that the summit can be closed during your trip (as it was for mine), but the second level is still magnificent. The summit tends to shut down during inclement weather or if they are doing maintenance.
After your ascent and descent of the tower, head over to Place du Trocadéro to take some photos, grab some food from a local vendor, and spend some time sprawled out on the lawn in front. And don’t forget to make a quick trip back at night. The tower lights up every hour between dusk and 1 a.m. in the summer.
If you’re looking for an extremely luxurious experience, book a hotel that has a room with a view. (For example, Hotel Montalembert’s Suite Montalembert has an exquisite view of the Eiffel Tower from the room’s tiny balcony that’ll make you feel like you’re in a movie.)
3. El Yunque Rainforest
There’s no better place to experience the luscious greenery and waters of Puerto Rico than at El Yunque rainforest. Although it can be crowded during peak season ― which is typically about mid-December through April ―it’s still well worth the visit.
El Yunque features hiking trails and lagoons, allowing you to experience different types of wildlife. If you’re up for a little more adventure, you can also plan an activity like zip-lining or riding an ATV.
4. Times Square
Alexander Spatari via Getty Images
Although I often roast it as a native New Yorker ― as noted above ― I’ll always have a soft spot for Times Square.
Yes, it’s packed with tourists galore. However, with its larger-than-life billboards and lights, it’s also oddly a magical sight to behold. There are better places to go shopping and eating in Manhattan than Times Square (for that, try going to SoHo) ― but you won’t find better theater productions anywhere in the world.
If you venture a little bit outside the area, you’ll stumble on Korean restaurants like Jongro BBQ and Woorijip, where you can enjoy delicious Korean BBQ or get some takeout to bring back to your hotel.
Would I recommend going to Times Square to watch the ball drop on New Year’s Eve? Absolutely not. But any other time is great, and you can see why people love the concrete jungle.
5. Disney World
There’s no doubt that Walt Disney World in Florida is crowded and expensive ― but there’s also no denying the magic that comes with a trip to “the most magical place on Earth.”
The four theme parks, two water parks and Disney Springs area give you a seemingly unlimited number of options to explore. The Magic Kingdom will bring you and your family a sense of nostalgia, thanks to attractions like Cinderella’s Castle and Space Mountain. Epcot offers plenty of fun options for adults (drink around the world!), and Animal Kingdom transports you to another land filled with wildlife. If you find yourself in Disney Springs, be sure to check out Gideon’s Bakehouse, which is a sweet shop known by both tourists and locals for its insanely delicious cookies.
Plus, who doesn’t want to meet Mickey Mouse?
6. The Blue Lagoon
If you’re planning a trip to Iceland, you won’t want to leave without making a pit stop at the Blue Lagoon. It was named one of the 25 wonders of the world by National Geographic for a reason.
There’s no denying it can be crowded and expensive (the entry price starts around $75). That said, you’ll likely feel tenfold more relaxed after you spend some time in the milky-blue waters, which have been said to nourish and rejuvenate the skin. (Don’t get out without giving yourself a face mask.)
If you’re looking for something less crowded, you’ll want to go to Sky Lagoon. Located at Iceland’s edge, this geothermal experience is similar to the Blue Lagoon but with a fraction of the crowds. While you’re there, be sure to head over to Smakk Bar for some light bites and refreshing beverages.
7. Niagara Falls
Shobeir Ansari via Getty Images
When thinking about tourist traps that are actually worth it, Niagara Falls in Canada is among the top places that come to mind.
The attraction receives over 14 million visitors annually, which is proof of just how spectacular it is. There’s no doubt you will get a little damp; it’s the price you’ll pay to witness something that people travel far and wide to see.
After soaking up the sight, head over to one of the restaurants in the area. For example, you can try Table House Rock Restaurant, which overlooks Niagara Falls and has locally sourced dishes that change seasonally. Be sure to make a reservation at night so you can witness the illumination away from the crowds.
If you can’t get a reservation for after dark, you may want to consider taking a boat tour that’ll get you as close as possible to the action with a guide who knows the history and facts.
8. Sensoji Temple
If you find yourself in Tokyo, you’ll definitely want to stop by Sensoji Temple. As with many other popular attractions, you likely will have to maneuver through crowds of people, but it’s highly worth it to get up close to Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple.
The temple has a history dating back 1,400 years and is dedicated to the Buddhist goddess of Mercy. The vibrant red structure has two stories and sculpted figurines on the exterior that give it a unique look.
After your visit, you can spend the day shopping in the area or eating at local establishments to really get a feel for the culture. Try foods like melon bread or tempura, or go shopping at Nakamise-dori Street, which is home to souvenirs and treats.
9. Bourbon Street
No trip to New Orleans is complete without a visit to Bourbon Street. Although you’ll be surrounded by other visitors, the atmosphere makes it all worth it. The live music, colorful beads hanging from balconies and neon lights make this a popular stop for tourists.
After seeing the sights, you’ll want some delicious food. Head over to Caesars New Orleans for a bite at Nina’s Creole Cottage or try some Southern comfort food at Dooky Chase. (Fun fact: Chef Leah Chase was Disney’s inspiration for Princess Tiana in “Princess and the Frog.”)
