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Avarua is the capital district and township of the Cook Islands, located on the north coast of Rarotonga, the largest island in the country. The name means 'two harbours' in Maori, reflecting its two natural harbours: Avatiu, the main commercial port, and Avarua Harbour at Takuvaine, now a small fishing port. As the administrative and commercial centre, Avarua hosts government offices, the Sir Geoffrey Henry National Culture Centre (including the National Library and Cook Islands National Museum), and the country's main airport, Rarotonga International Airport. The district is divided into 19 traditional sub-districts (tapere) and had a population of 5,120 in the 2021 census.

The Cook Islands, a Polynesian nation in the South Pacific, offers a low-crowd alternative to more visited Oceania destinations like Fiji. Rarotonga, the largest island at just 67 sq km, features triangular peaks reminiscent of Tahiti, a wild hinterland ringed by a blue-water lagoon, and proud Polynesian culture. Beyond Rarotonga and honeymoon-favourite Aitutaki, with its pristine triangular lagoon and three protected motu (islets), 13 additional islands offer near-private exploration. The nation is strengthening protections for Marae Moana, one of the world's largest marine parks, and has delayed deep-sea mining research until at least 2032. Rarotonga's sacred Maungaroa Valley, currently on Unesco's Tentative List, teems with rivers and tropical rainforests that have never been developed. A new wave of barefoot luxury stays is transforming the islands, while improved air access, including Hawaiian Airlines' upgraded Honolulu route with more convenient daytime departures and new US connections via Alaska Airlines, plus Jetstar's first direct Brisbane-Rarotonga flights from May 2026, makes this paradise easier to reach than ever.

Kyoto is a city with a unique repertoire of compelling culture that has been refined over the past 1,200 years. Home to esteemed historical sites, Kyoto is known for its profound serenity and timeless allure, nurturing an elegant culture whose emphasis on cleanliness, simplicity, and beauty is displayed in Kyoto-style hospitality. Many aspects of Japanese culture originate here and remain deeply rooted in residents' daily lives, from traditional wooden machiya townhouses to yearly events such as the famous Gion Matsuri.

Italy is one of the standout European summer holiday destinations this year, as the US-Israel war on Iran pushes travellers to stay closer to home. Demand across Europe for all-inclusive, protected package holidays is unusually strong, but airline rerouting and last-minute schedule changes mean travellers should plan ahead and seek written confirmation of rerouting and reimbursement options.

Florence is highlighted as a favourite solo city break for travellers over 40, especially for those who love great food and are willing to spend a little more. The city offers cinematic architecture, a relaxed sightseeing rhythm, and a strong dining scene that suits a grown-up solo holiday.

Five travel pros unanimously chose California as the best U.S. state for a long weekend, highlighting sunny coastal escapes and varied landscapes. Their Golden State picks include Dana Point, Joshua Tree, Oceanside, and Tomales—offering harbor towns, high-desert stargazing, walkable beach communities, and wine-country access.

A UNESCO World Heritage stretch of coastline on the Tyrrhenian coast of southern Italy, reaching from Positano to Vietri sul Mare, backed by the Lattari Mountains and facing the Gulf of Salerno. It includes 16 municipalities in the province of Salerno, with high cliffs, enchanting coves, terraced citrus groves, vineyards, olive trees, and small villages suspended over the sea.