A Very Fun And Very Chaotic 48+ Hours In London

big ben london trip 2023

I lived in London in 2019, so when I decided to visit a family friend in France (following her Paris travel recommendationsof course), I knew I had to add in a London trip. I went in feeling confident about navigating and seeing the sites, but nothing could have prepared me for how fun and chaotic the weekend turned out to be! Here's everything we did — and my top recommendations for the next time you find yourself across the pond.

Day One

Image via Chloe Williams/B+C

The first thing my friends and I did after meeting up was grab coffee and sandwiches to eat in the park because we were hungry, jet lagged, and needed sustenance immediately. The park ended up being the perfect spot for the beginning-of-the-trip essentials: laughing, catching up, and calling our moms to tell them that we had made it.

Up next, we checked into our first hotel. We stayed at the Hotel Café Royal in Piccadilly Circus and it was dreamy! Not only was everyone kind and accommodating, but the room itself was absolutely gorgeous. There was a good deal of natural light, a large bathroom, and a very comfortable bed.

After we got settled in our room, we really took our time exploring and seeing the sites. We roamed through the city, past iconic telephone booths and a variety of pubs until we made it to Big Ben (which is finally no longer under construction!). But the first scheduled item on our agenda came in the evening, when we grabbed finger foods and drinks at Green Bar inside the hotel.

Image via Chloe Williams/B+C

I am a tried-and-true girly girl so if there is one thing on this earth I love, it's dressing up for cocktails. I got the Velvet Essence cocktail (which features matcha, apple, and elderflower) and it was genuinely one of the best drinks I've ever had. The chicken, fried courgettes, and salmon blini made for the perfect shareable bites, and with so many flavors, textures, and temperatures, the whole experience was so much fun (and delicious).

Then, in true vacation fashion, we all headed to local grocery store Tesco for desserts, took long showers, turned on the TV, and fell asleep.

Day Two

Image via Chloe Williams/B+C

Our second day in the city started off on a very good food with coffee, porridge, and eggs Benedict at the hotel. It was such a big portion I couldn't even finish it! The highlight of the entire day came next and was a complete accident: seeing the Royal Family on our way to St. James' Park.

We were headed to my favorite café in the park when we stumbled across a huge crowd and police officers. I asked a nearby worker what was happening (to which she looked somewhat confused and responded, "It's the King's birthday."), and by the time we found a spot in the crowd, King Charles and the entire Royal Family (minus Harry and Meghan) passed by us. We barely had to wait at all! The rest of the afternoon was filled with fly-overs, parades, and other celebrations we hadn't anticipated. Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis once again stole the show.

Image via Chloe Williams/B+C

After grabbing coffee from St. James Café (which I'd dreamt of since June of 2019) and walking past Buckingham Palace, we spent the afternoon in South Kensington. This is one of my favorite areas of London, and includes a number of places where I spent a lot of time, including HTB Onslow Square and the Victoria & Albert Museum.

In addition to historical garments, the V&A now has Harry Styles' Patchwork Cardigan, which might just be one of the most iconic clothing items of the 2020s.

Image via Chloe Williams/B+C

After South Kensington, we moved into our new hotel (and failed to grab spontaneous tickets to Harry Styles' Wembley Stadium show), and decided to check off a major bucket list item — getting fish and chips in a pub.

Considering it was already closing in on 9 o'clock, it took us longer than expected to find a pub that was still serving food, but we made it just in time. We got cider! We got mushy peas! Our server kicked a pickpocketer out of the restaurant! It was quite an exciting experience.

Day Three

Image via Chloe Williams/B+C

Our flight to France was scheduled for the afternoon at the Luton airport, so we took our time getting ready and packing up. But it wasn't until we got to the airport that things really took a turn for the chaotic. Just bear with me.

On the bus, one of my friends and I went to check in for our flight and realized that it had already closed, meaning that now, there was a chance we wouldn't be allowed on the plane. Well, we didn't even get up to the counter to ask because as soon as we got into the airport, we started having passport issues that took up the next four hours — meaning that we did end up missing our flight while our other friend went ahead. On top of everything, because of a storm, the airline was cancelling a bunch of flights and hotels around the area were filling up fast.

After panic texting our families and crying over the phone, we *finally* found a flight and made our way to a nearby inn. We ended up staying in Luton because neither one of us had the energy or the headspace to make our way back into the city. Once we got checked in, ate dinner, and finally felt like we could take a deep breath, we settled into our room.

A movie I loved in high school ended up being on TV, which gave me a surprising amount of comfort, but a fair warning for anyone staying in an old English inn: the room ended up being over 85 degrees. I have never in my life felt as hot inside a room as I did that night. But, if anything, it's a bonding experience my friend and I will be telling our grandkids about.

Day Four

Image via Chloe Williams/B+C

The adventure continued on our last day in England, when we got stuck in rush-hour traffic on the way to Heathrow Airport. We immediately checked our bags and made sure everything with our flight was good to go, and then realized the spontaneous (and expensive) airline tickets we bought gave us access to the Air France lounge.

I had never been in an airport lounge before, but I can safely say it was very cool — and not just because as soon as we walked in, we saw Joanne Frogatt from Downton Abbey. After grabbing some breakfast and a chocolate croissant for the plane, we made it to our gate during the last call (even though we were early? I will never understand this). *Finally* by the grace of all things good, and after three separate hotels, lots of English food, and an extra plane ticket, we made it to France. Bonjour!

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After revealing her cancer diagnosis back in March, Kate Middleton just announced she's finally finished her nine-month long chemotherapy treatment. Instead of releasing a written statement or an Instagram post, Middleton shared an emotional, gorgeous video featuring her entire family. It's a serene celebration of her loving family as they take the next steps in her cancer journey together. Here's what the Princess of Wales said.

  • Kate Middleton announced her cancer diagnosis in March 2024 after stepping back from public life.
  • She also says she has "a renewed sense of hope and appreciation of life" after completing chemotherapy.
  • And royal author Robert Jobson says she's "doing very well" as we enter the holiday 2024 season!

What's the latest update on Kate Middleton?

Kate Middleton has finished chemotherapy and it appears she's doing "very well," which we're so thankful for! "From what I understand, Catherine is doing very well," royal author Robert Jobson says in an interview withHello!. "She is back training at the gym and doing all the things she wanted to do."

After Kate stepped back from public view, and the internet went crazy over her supposed disappearance, Robert seems to feel confident she's ready to reenter public life. "I do think that we will start to see a lot more of her, and that she will carry out engagements as well as continuing to work behind the scenes," he says.

Prince William also offered a look into Kate's recovery journey before the Earthshot Prize awards on November 6, telling British journalists (via People) that “She's doing really well thanks. And hopefully, she is watching tonight. So cheering me on.”

“She's been amazing this whole this whole year," he continues. "I know she will be really keen to see tonight be a success."

We're sending Kate Middleton and the rest of the Royal Family so much love!

This three minute video packs in a lot of love — and a lot of life – after such a grim circumstance for the beloved royal family. Middleton opens with what a relief it is to announce that she's finished her chemo treatment, and continues by explaining, "The last nine months have been incredibly tough for us as a family. Life as you know it can change in an instant and we have had to find a way to navigate the stormy waters and road unknown."

The Princess of Wales elaborates that cancer is "complex, scary, and unpredictable," especially for friends and family. She says, ""This time has above all reminded William and me to reflect and be grateful for the simple yet important things in life, which so many of us often take for granted. Of simply loving and being loved."

Middleton says that her main goal is to remain cancer-free, and continue on her long healing journey. She plans to "each day as it comes," while also hoping to join some public engagements in the future. She says, "Despite all that has gone before, I enter this new phase of recovery with a renewed sense of hope and appreciation of life."

The Princess wraps up her statement by saying that she and Prince William are "grateful" for everyone's enduring support, noting that the overall graciousness and kindness has been "truly humbling." She says, "To all those who are continuing their own cancer journey – I remain with you, side by side, hand in hand. Out of darkness, can come light, so let that light shine bright."

Clive Brunskill/Getty Images

Throughout her contemplative statement, the video features gorgeous shots of the entire family out in nature, splashing through the beach, walking through a nature trail, and just generally being together. With three grown, yet still young, children, this family vibrancy resonates deeply, reminding us all to hold those we love closely.

We're so thrilled for Princess Kate, and the entire family, on this incredible health milestone, and we continue to wish them well!

When did Kate Middleton get cancer?

Kate Middleton officially announced her cancer diagnosis back in March of 2024. The Princess never explicitly stated what kind of cancer she's battling, only that she was in the midst of a thorough treatment plan.

Back in January of that same year, Middleton underwent abdominal surgery that many assume is associated with the diagnosis at hand. After the described "successful" surgery, Kensington Palace stated that Middleton wished that her "personal medical information" remained "private." They further explained that the public would get updates "when there is significant new information to share."

The next update we received was the March video, explaining Princess Kate's cancer diagnosis, leading us to believe that each incident is tied together.

Regardless, it's great to hear that the Princess of Wales has officially completed her chemotherapy treatment as of today!

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Header image via Clive Brunskill/Getty Images

Last year, some of us celebrated the holidays apart from our families for the first time. COVID has brought with it many changes, some of them arguably positive (like increased flexibility to work from home), some difficult (such as the realization of vastly different political and social views between family and friends), and some horrible (obviously, the health implications of a global pandemic). However, for some of us, celebrating the holidays without family members isn't exclusively due to COVID. In addition to so many of us living in different areas than our families of origin, some of us simply don't have close bonds with the people we grew up around. Sometimes, this can cause loneliness.

If you're not close with your family members, the holidays can be a difficult time. This is doubly true if you don't have a close circle of friends to call upon. But make no mistake, if this sounds like your situation, you're not alone — there are thousands of other people going through the same struggles you are. We sat down with Irad Eichler, founder of Circles, a website that connects people who are sharing similar struggles, like heartbreak, grief, or loneliness. Here are some of Eichler's tips for coping — and even thriving! — during the holiday season when you're not planning on spending it with your family, for one reason or another.

Don't Fall For "Perfect Families" On Social Media

Laura Chouette

The first VERY important step to having a joyous holiday season when you're going it alone is to stop believing the narrative that others' family situations are perfect, Eichler says.

"Remember people only post a moment in time, and only the moments when they look their happiest and best."

In addition to the fact that everything you see on social media is curated for the 'gram, it's also important to remember that by focusing on what others have and you lack, you risk failing to see the great things at play in your own life.

"These holiday periods can become a time of focusing on who and what we don't have, rather than who or what we do, and can cause a negative spiral into depressing and dreadful feelings of inadequacy," says Eichler.

Gratitude is the reason for the season, after all. So instead of only seeing the negative, try some gratitude journal prompts to help you focus on what's actually really wonderful about your life right now.

Make An Effort To Deepen New Connections

Joel Muniz

While it may seem like everyone has friends and family to spend time with during the holiday season, that doesn't mean no one is available for deepening a blossoming relationship or new friendship.

"Make a list of people you can or would like to connect with, and try to reach out to at least one of them," advises Eichler.

Reaching out doesn't have to mean a big plan or an hour-long conversation. Even a quick text letting a friendly coworker know you're thinking about them can go a long way toward deepening the relationship and moving it in the direction of closer friendship.

Don't have an acquaintance in mind? Then it's time to make new acquaintances. What's more in line with the Christmas spirit than attending a Meetup or event full of people eager to make new friends?

"Join groups with similar interests to yours, such as hiking, baking, or games. Push your boundaries and be brave - you might find new people who have much in common with you."

Give Back

Priscilla Du Preez

The holiday season is a great time to focus on giving back to your community, and coincidentally, acts of generosity and kindness are known to reduce loneliness and help people feel happier. One study found that knowing a few of your neighbors and doing small acts of kindness for them — such as cheering them up, listening to them, mowing their lawn, providing advice about local business recommendations and job opportunities, and chatting over the fence — was statistically correlated with feeling less lonely and having a lower risk of depression.

Helping out elderly neighbors can be a particularly gratifying way to give back.

"Notice older lonely people in your neighborhood or community who might have no family at all, and offer to help them," says Eichler. "These can become mutually meaningful connections, and help you 'adopt' a grandparent."

Connect With Others Online

Thought Catalog

Finally, use the Internet for its highest and best purpose: to connect people. Whether you're using Meetup to find in-person events, digital forums for having conversations about special interests, or programs like Circle for getting support from others in your situation, the opportunities to create new connections are practically endless.

"There are many interest groups that can be found digitally, where or any person can connect with others in the same life stage, going through the same challenges, or who would like to explore the same interests," Eichler states. "Meaningful connections can be formed easily in these circumstances. The Internet enables us to find and connect to people all over the world who fit this, and to whom we can become more easily attached, as we are able to find people with the exact interests that energize us."

If you're struggling with loneliness, you're not alone. Connect with our digital community of makers and creatives here at Brit+Co by following us on IG and signing up for our newsletter!

This post has been updated.

Holiday breaks are the perfect opportunity to explore popular destinations, in the U.S. and abroad, without the summer crowds. Even better, you can soak in the festive spirit as you experience holiday traditions in new cities and cultures. Whether it's the festive lights of a European city, the bustling energy of a big city, or an exotic getaway to cross off your bucket list (and escape the cold), Google’s top 20 holiday destinations promise stunning sights, sounds, and holiday celebrations. From November through New Year's Eve, make the most of the season and embrace the magic of travel.

Orlando

Photo by Craig Adderley

When it comes to celebrating the holidays, Disney fans head to the most magical place on Earth: Orlando. Discover holiday trimmings, events, and magic along Main Street at the Walt Disney World and Epcot Theme Park. Beyond the theme park draw, book a manatee snorkel tour; spot wildlife like alligators, bobcats, and bears on a free drive through Lake Apopka; shop the charming cobblestone streets on Park Avenue; swim with dolphins at Discovery Cove (an all-inclusive resort), and visit Leu Gardens for a stroll through a tropical rainforest, a rose garden, and butterfly garden and more.

Cancun

Photo by Samuel Sweet

White sand beaches, cultural landmarks like Chichén Itzá, and natural caverns to swim in make Cancun a holiday adventure for the books. Explore the underwater art museum near Isla Mujeres, Mayan ruins and an incredible art scene in Tulum, and Playa del Carmen for unforgettable nightlife.

New York City

Photo by Vlada Karpovich

New York City is the quintessential holiday destination for your favorite rom-coms *and* your 2024 holiday travel, kicking off with the iconic Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, followed by the Rockefeller Center tree lighting, and wrapping up with the Times Square ball drop on NYE. Beyond the holiday traditions, the city offers an eclectic and amazing food scene, from one of the best hot chocolates at LYSÉE to some of the best Italian at Via Carota to classic French standby Balthazar, plus world-class museums and a nightlife suited for every kind of reveler. Warm up after a day spent wandering the scenic paths of Central Park to the historic charm of Battery Park with a boozy cocktail at Overstory, a retro-chic bar with panoramic views.

Tokyo

Photo by Satoshi Hirayama

Make a bucket-list trip to Tokyo this holiday season. Experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, explore the beautiful historic temples and shrines, such as Sensō-ji, the city's oldest and most iconic Buddhist temple; and walk the neighborhoods: through Shibuya Crossing for shops, cafés, and a lively nightlife; Harajuku for eclectic fashion and colorful street art, and the trendy Takeshita Street. Indulge in Tokyo’s unique food scene, from flavorful ramen at popular spots like Ichiran or Afuri, to savoring the best street food at the Tsukiji Outer Market. Don’t forget to experience a traditional izakaya, where you can sample Japanese pub fare like yakitori and sashimi at the end of your sightseeing day.

London

Photo by Dominika Gregušová

Soak in the holidays, British style. Explore a winter wonderland in Hyde Park, where you can find ice skating, Christmas markets, carnival rides, and more; stroll along Oxford Street for Christmas lights and visit Covent Garden's giant Christmas tree, mistletoe chandeliers, and twinkling lights (perfect for holiday photos!). Skate in the historic moat with views of the Tower of London and visit London’s holiday markets like the Southbank Centre Winter Market along the Thames for unique gifts. Catch a show on London’s West End theatre district and enjoy afternoon tea at London hotels like Claridge’s and The Ritz. Staying for Christmas? Attend a service at one of London's historic churches, such as St. Paul's or Westminster Abbey.

Miami/Fort Launderdale

Photo by Leah Newhouse

Soak in the holiday sun in Miami. Brunch poolside at Strawberry Moon near South Beach or the Michelin-recommended La Mar by Gastón Acurio for the best views of Brickell and Biscayne Bay. Lounge on the beach and take a dip, before strolling the pedestrians-only, European-style Española Way. Pop into Tropezón for Spanish tapas and creative gin cocktails in an Andalusian-inspired space. Later, get in the holiday spirit with tickets to A Drag Queen Christmas or A Christmas Wonderland for a whole North Pole village and a half-mile of holiday displays, light shows, and immersive experiences. If you want to experience Miami nightlife, grab your Santa hat and continue the night at M2 or LIV for megaclub vibes (don’t be surprised if you bump into celebrities at the latter).

Paris

Photo by Shvets Anna

Here's a holiday getaway, Emily in Paris style. Holiday shop along the Champs-Élysées, where trees are lit up in spectacular red LED lights. While there, grab lunch and a macaron at Ladurée. The cooler temps and smaller crowds make it an ideal time to visit famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower (catch a great view of it in the Christmas village at Trocadéro), the Louvre, and Notre-Dame Cathedral, where you'll find a Christmas market for the season (also check out the one at the Tuileries Gardens). Parisian cafés and bistros are enticing with warm and comforting dishes like onion soup, coq au vin, and decadent pastries. Sip a café au lait at Café Charlot in Le Marais or dig into the stunning bûche de Noël at the Butterfly Pâtisserie in the Hôtel de Crillon.

Los Angeles

Photo by Roberto Nickson

You may not get snow, but you’ll get plenty of lights in the City of Angels, from the one-mile interactive light show at the Descanso Gardens to the Venice Canals, where homes and bridges are brightly decorated with holiday lights. Skate outdoors in the heart of Downtown LA with skyscrapers surrounding you at the Pershing Square Ice Rink or by the beach near the iconic Santa Monica pier. Experience Universal Studios’ Grinchmas and Harry Potter Christmas, a Menorah Lighting in Beverly Hills, and a candlelight procession at Disneyland. Of course, there are plenty of amazing museums, dining, and shopping too. Check out our local’s guide to LA!

Las Vegas

Photo by David Vives

The glitz in Las Vegas gets glitzier come holiday time when hotels and casinos are just a little more extra. The Bellagio transforms its gardens into a winter wonderland while The Venetian’s Winter in Venice goes all out with holiday decor, canal-side ice skating, and festive events. The rooftop pool deck at The Cosmopolitan turns into an outdoor ice rink with real ice, holiday music, fire pits, and even occasional "snowfall." Sip hot chocolate or cocktails while skating with views of The Strip. Catch The Nutcracker by the Nevada Ballet Theatre at The Smith Center. Visit the Ethel M Chocolate Factory in Henderson to see the famous Holiday Cactus Garden illuminated with over a million lights, and escape the city for a scenic holiday hike in Red Rock Canyon, just a short drive from the city. Want to see snow? Head up to Mount Charleston for snow activities like skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.

Honolulu

Photo by Jess Loiterton

Trade your snow boots for sandals and head to Honolulu this holiday. Relax on Waikiki Beach or Lanikai Beach for white sand and turquoise waters, perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, or simply lounging. Hike the iconic Diamond Head Crater for breathtaking panoramic views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean or Manoa Falls Trail, a scenic, easy hike through a lush rainforest. Visit Pearl Harbor, explore Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, and discover Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the U.S. that once served as the residence of Hawaiian royalty. At night, attend a holiday-inspired luau and catch a free fireworks show at the Hilton Hawaiian Village.

Mumbai

Photo by iMesser

The best time to visit Mumbai is between October and February for milder temps, and before/after monsoon season. Explore the Gateway of India, one of Mumbai’s most iconic landmarks, located by the waterfront. Take a ferry ride from here to Elephanta Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can explore ancient cave temples dating back to the 6th century. Stroll along Marine Drive, also known as the "Queen's Necklace," due to its curved shape and sparkling lights at night. Walk through the Hanging Gardens, take a Bollywood Tour, and enjoy high tea at the Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai. Enjoy the cool November/December breeze while watching the sunset or sit by the promenade and take in the views of the Arabian Sea.

Phoenix

Photo by James Wilson

Phoenix is perfect for a wellness escape during the holidays. Hike Camelback Mountain, one of Phoenix’s most popular hiking spots, for stunning panoramic views of the city and the surrounding desert landscape. Just outside Phoenix, Old Town Scottsdale blends Wild West charm with modern art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. Stroll through the streets to find unique art, local crafts, and enjoy the lively nightlife or weekend markets. The Desert Botanical Garden is home to thousands of species of cacti, succulents, and desert plants. The garden offers scenic walking trails, art installations, and seasonal events like the Las Noches de las Luminarias, which lights up the garden with thousands of glowing luminaries during the holidays. For wellness, travel 2 hours to Sedona’s breathtaking Boynton Canyon, where the iconic spa Mii amo offers casitas with private balconies or patios, in-room kiva fireplaces and soaking tubs, as well as wellness experiences like chakra balancing and intuitive massage.

San Juan

Photo by Dangelie Perez

Beyond your winter escape to beautiful beaches like Condado Beach or Isla Verde, Old San Juan is absolutely worth a visit. Explore the colorful colonial architecture lit up with Christmas lights. Walk through the cobblestone streets, visit the San Juan Bautista Cathedral, and explore the historic fort Castillo San Felipe del Morro (shown above). Enjoy a traditional Puerto Rican feast with foods like roast pork (lechón asado), arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas), pasteles (similar to tamales), and tembleque (coconut dessert) at one of the many restaurants in San Juan, like like Deaverdura or Cocina al Fondo. Stay for NYE and visit one of the World's Best Bars La Factoría and/or Pio Pio Champagne Bar, and pop by the waterfront for the Old San Juan Fireworks.

Chicago

Photo by Chait Goli

Celebrate the holidays in one of the most festive U.S. cities, Chicago. Skate across the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink under the backdrop of Chicago’s iconic skyline. Visit the city’s official Christmas tree in Millennium Park and catch a performance of The Nutcracker at the Joffrey Ballet or A Christmas Carol at the Goodman Theatre. Enjoy a festive afternoon tea at one of Chicago’s historic hotels, such as The Drake or The Peninsula. Shop the Magnificent Mile, which is beautifully lit up during the holiday season. Art lovers will fawn over The Art Institute of Chicago, and Second City comedy shows make for a fun night out. Try Beatrix for brunch and don’t miss the deep dish Chicago pizza at Lou Malnati's Pizzeria and inventive cocktails at The Aviary. If you're brave, join the annual Polar Bear Plunge, where you can dive into the icy waters of Lake Michigan to kick off the New Year!

Delhi

Photo by Ranjeet Chauhan

Delhi comes alive in the first of November during Diwali with beautifully lit homes, fireworks, and cultural events. Visit A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Delhi’s most beautiful Mughal monuments, Humayun’s Tomb (shown above). Attend a Dastangoi performance, a traditional Urdu storytelling art form, at the India International Centre. Take a yoga sesh at the Lodhi Gardens, a great spot for photography. Just a few hours away is the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. Explore the Pink City of Jaipur with its palaces, forts, and vibrant culture on a weekend trip from Delhi too.

Punta Cana

Photo by CGXL MEDIA

Get some serious holiday escape R&R at this postcard-beautiful island for the ultimate romantic getaway. Lounge by the pool with a piña colada at one of many all-inclusive resorts, like Excellence Punta Cana, an adults-only resort and spa. When you’re ready to explore the island, take a dip in the cenotes, or underground caves, at Scape Park in Capa Cana or the freshwater lagoons at Indigenous Eyes Ecological Park. Dine downtown at the Noah restaurant, which is the top restaurant in town, according to TripAdvisor, and watch an amazing performance at the Coco Bongo Punta Cana nightclub.

Barcelona

Photo by AXP Photography

Barcelona is quieter during the holiday season than it is in the summer with perfect sightseeing weather (average around 65 degrees). Explore Antoni Gaudí’s architectural masterpieces, like the Sagrada Família, which holds a special Christmas mass; Park Güell (shown above), a whimsical mosaic-filled park with fantastic views of the city; Casa Batlló, one of Gaudí’s most impressive residential buildings with organic, sea-inspired design (you can take a guided tour), and Casa Milà (La Pedrera) with its wave-like stone façade and quirky rooftop chimneys. Stroll through the Gothic Quarter (the El Born area is great for shopping), take a tapas food tour, and ring in the New Year, if you wish, following the Spanish tradition of eating 12 green grapes at midnight to bring good luck in the year ahead.

Bangkok

Photo by Kirandeep Singh Walia

Visit everything from bustling markets and glittering temples to rooftop bars and street food vendors in Bangkok. The Grand Palace is one of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks. Inside, find Wat Phra Kaew, home to the Emerald Buddha, a highly revered statue. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is the most famous floating market near Bangkok, where you can shop for traditional snacks and holiday gifts from boats. Take a boat ride on the Chao Phraya River; ride a tuk-tuk ride along the Khao San Road; and relax in Lumpini Park for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok (you can rent a paddleboat, enjoy a picnic, or simply take a stroll while watching locals practice tai chi). Keep an eye out for the giant monitor lizards that roam freely in the park! Visit iconic rooftop bars, like Sky Bar at Lebua State Tower, famous for being featured in the movie The Hangover 2, and Vertigo and Moon Bar, located at the Banyan Tree Hotel with stunning 360-degree views of the city.

Dallas/Fort Worth

Photo by Huihui Zhang

Trade your snow boots for cowgirl boots, and check out our stay at Dallas’s boutique hotel and speakeasy, Hôtel Swexan, a worthy visit for food, drink or stay, if you’re in town. The Dallas Holiday Parade on December 7 features festive floats, marching bands, and an appearance by Santa Claus. Get your nature fix at The Dallas Arboretum, which puts on a spectacular holiday display, featuring life-sized gazebos representing each of the "12 Days of Christmas." Visit after-dark to see the illuminated gardens. Head to the Fort Worth Stockyards for a unique, cowboy-themed holiday celebration with parades, caroling, cowboy Santa meet-and-greets, and Western-themed Christmas lights and decorations. Just outside Dallas, Grapevine transforms into the "Christmas Capital of Texas," with a host of holiday activities. The North Pole Express, a festive train ride with Santa Claus, storytelling, and hot chocolate, is one of the highlights.

Rome

Photo by Javon Swaby

Beat the summer crowds and enjoy a festive Rome during the holiday season. Visit Vatican City (shown) for Christmas celebrations, including St. Peter’s Basilica decorated with Christmas trees, lights, and a large nativity scene in St. Peter’s Square. On Christmas Day, the actual Pope gives the "Urbi et Orbi" blessing from the basilica’s balcony. Walk the 135 Spanish Steps with a gelato a la Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday, stand in awe of the Colosseum and Roman Forum, and toss a coin in the most famous fountains in the world, the Trevi Fountain, a masterpiece of Baroque art. (Tossing a coin, legend has it, means you’ll return to Rome again one day – molto bene!).

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Zach Bryan and Brianna "Chickenfry" LaPaglia's explosive breakup is everywhere right now. From his seemingly one-sided social media posts to all the bombshell revelations she keeps dropping, it's clear this split is NOT amicable. Both parties are dropping tons of lore, info, and everything in between — including new music?! — right now, so it makes sense if you can't keep up. Luckily, I'm here to help break this breakup down for you! Here's everything you need to know about Zach Bryan and Brianna Chickenfry's relationship...or lack thereof.

Neilson Barnard/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

October 22, 2024 – Zach Bryan Announces His Breakup With Brianna Chickenfry

On October 22, 2024, after some recent speculation that Zach Bryan and Brianna Chickenfry split up, Zach took to his Instagram stories. The country star said, "Addressing something: Brianna and me have broken up with [each other] and I respect and love her with every ounce of my heart. She has loved me unconditionally for a very long time and for that I'll always thank her."

He continued, noting, "I have had an incredibly hard year personally and struggled through some pretty severe things. I thought it would be beneficial for both of us to go our different ways. I am not perfect and never will be. Please respect Brianna's privacy and space in this and if you have it in your heart, mine too."

To wrap it all up, he closed by apologizing to his fans. He said, "With everything I am and to anyone I let down, I am sorry. I try my best in everything. I failed people that love me and mostly myself."

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

Brianna hopped on her own Instagram stories shortly there after. She posted, "Hey guys I'm feeling really blindsided right now. Gonna hop off social media for a while and attempt to heal privately, when I'm ready I'll be back and ready to talk. I love you guys so much thank you for all of your kind words. Remember you are so loved and everything's always gonna be okay 🫶"

The Brianna got on Youtube next, posting a raw, emotional video about the situation. Sitting on the floor of her bathroom, she opened up as much as she could in the moment about her breakup. She said, "I just woke up to Zach posting on his Instagram that we broke up and I had no idea that post was going up. He didn't text me, he didn't call me. I just woke up to a bunch of texts, like, 'Are you okay?'"

Brianna, with her teary eyes and red face, explained she's been crying for "five days straight." She said, "I'm at the point where it's like, how can you give someone everything and love them so unconditionally, like through stuff that you shouldn't because you just love them and you want them... like you see the good in them?"

The internet personality said that this is all "so embarrassing" and "really, really heartbreaking." She elaborated that the couple broke up on October 21, but wanted to process on her own and "didn't want it to be public."

Much like her Instagram story, she told her audience that she'll come back when she's ready.

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

November 7, 2024 — Brianna Claims Zach's Emotionally Abusive, Wanted $12Mil NDA

Well, it appears this week, Brianna decided she's ready. On Barstool Sports' BFF's Pod November 7, 2024, Brianna gave an inside look at the breakup unlike any other. Not only did she claim Zach was abusive, but she also alleged that he offered her a $12 million NDA to "not talk about the relationship."

After saying it's been the hardest year of her life, she said. "I'm still scared right now because I'm scared of him. My brain's rewired and I'm scared to make him mad and last week, I didn't want to talk about it 'cause I was scared."

Brianna then described the alleged emotional abuse. She noted that everything was cyclical and that he would build her up only to break her back down again. "There was always another excuse as to why he was treating me so poorly and why I'm crying myself to sleep every night, why he's screaming at me," she said. "And then you wake up, it's the apology, it's the 'I'm going to be better like I need you in my life,' but if you've been through this — I don't expect people to understand emotional abuse if you haven't been through it. I hope you never have to go through it but if you've been there you know what I'm talking about."

Not only does Brianna allege she was offered an NDA, but she said that other women that came before her had to sign their own agreements. She declined the offer because she didn't want to "sign away [her] experiences and what [she] went through to protect someone that hurt [her]." She also wanted to share this experience for other women who've suffered something similar.

And when it comes to the logistics of losing out on the famous lifestyle and alleged $12 million? She said, "It was never about the money — I was with the dude because I loved the dude."

Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival

November 8, 2024 — Zach Quit Touring Amid Abuse Allegations

On November 8, 2024, Zach posted on Instagram — where he clearly loves to share all his big news — that not only is his new single "High Road" out today, but that he's also ending his tour early. Read his full statement here:

After not being home for a year and a half I drove out to my mothers gravestone in the dead of night a few days back on familiar Oklahoma roads and I came to realize just like in the past, that she never would call me again

Told her I quit touring because I got accepted to get my masters in Paris next year, I told her I was back in Oklahoma, told her about all my best friends in New York and all the nights we howled with the moon, told her about the immeasurable laughter my band and me have shared these last five years, all the calluses on my finger tips, every tear shed, told her about making it on The Rolling Stone and most importantly told her about porch swinging with my beautiful sister.
I wrote the chorus for this song a month or two back and finished it when I realized I was blessed with all these things.

I figured it was about time I released it.

Thank you guys for listening to ‘This Worlds a Giant’ last night and thank you to all the people who love me; who have truly carried the weight with me.

Seems that all these Quiet Dreams have gotten much too heavy but I’m home now and I’ll hold you through the pain.

High Road is out today and I appreciate all of you"

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