Under a two-hour flight from the UK is a ‘magical’ and ‘beautiful’ theme park, boasting 30 rides and attractions that offers a great alternative to Disneyland – and it’s much cheaper
Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen, Denmark, has been labelled as a great alternative to Disneyland Paris
Disneyland has long been dubbed ‘The Happiest Place on Earth’, but with that comes a hefty price tag, particularly if you’re taking the whole family. Thankfully, there’s a cheaper alternative for a fraction of the price, and it’s even been said to have been inspired by Walt Disney itself.
Less than a two-hour flight from the UK is Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen, Denmark, known for its “cosy, wholesome and magical atmosphere.” It claims to be the second-oldest amusement park in the world, having opened in 1843, and boasts around 30 fun-packed rides and attractions for the whole family to enjoy.
Located in the heart of the city and set within the stunning backdrop of the Danish capital, it has been labelled “the most beautiful park” by one avid traveller and content creator called Emily. And one of the most appealing qualities about this theme park is that tickets start from as little as £11.10 per person.
Sharing details of the beloved and overlooked Disneyland alternative, Emily posted a TikTok video on her page, @upfoldadventures, during a family day out. At the start of the video, she told her 10.9K followers, “If Disneyland Paris is out of your budget this year, I have the next best thing, and no, it’s not Efteling.
“If you love Disney but you hate the crowds and you want the magic but at half the price, well this park has those Disney magical storybook vibes but without the chaos and when it gets dark and all the lights come on, you will understand why this is called ‘Europe’s hidden Disney.'”
She added: “It is one of the world’s oldest theme parks and it is truly magical – it is honestly like stepping foot into a storybook.
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“The rides are classic and stunning, the park is spotless, there’s live music, there’s shows and the food is phenomenal – don’t just think this is gonna be theme park junk, no, it is genuinely some of the best food I’ve ever eaten in my life.”
One of the main attractions at Tivoli Gardens is the giant Ferris Wheel that was built in 1943. It also offers views 63m above the ground on the Golden Tower, and a thrilling ride on its wooden Roller Coaster, which was erected all the way back in 1914.
In addition, visitors can whiz around on their bumper cars and carousel rides, or admire the picturesque surroundings in the Hanging Gardens. And that’s not all, as the theme park is also packed with shops, stages, theatre spaces and a food hall to keep the family happy.
While the savvy saving mum is a huge fan of Disneyland Paris, she was left delighted after a day out at Tivoli Gardens. In the video she added: “So if you love the Disney vibe, well then you’re gonna fall in love with it, because it is such a cosy, wholesome, magical atmosphere at a fraction of the cost of Disneyland Paris – and before Disney even existed, this park was creating all the magic.”
Standard weekday tickets for Tivoli Gardens start from just £11.10 for children aged 3-7, while a standard adult ticket costs just £22.21. A weekday ticket and ride pass, offering full access to all the attractions, will set you back £25.01 for children aged 3-7 and £50.14 for an adult ticket.
Children under 3 are free at Tivoli Gardens. Prices can vary, so it’s best to check their website for more details.
There is the free-to-visit Winchombe Museum which talks of the town’s historydating back billions of years.
Otherwise you can also visit St Peter’s Church which dates back to the 1400s.
Just outside the town in the parish of Sudeley is Sudeley Castle.
As well as its beautiful 10 gardens set across the 1,200 acre estate, it has been owned by a number of kings over the years including King Edward IV and King Richard II.
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King Henry VIII also visited with his then wife Anne Boleyn – and also made it the resting place of Queen Katherine Parr after her death.
This makes it the world’s only privately owned castle to have a queen buried onsite.
Sadly the town no longer has a functioning train station with scheduled passenger trains.
It did have its own back in 1906 which was on the line of Cheltenham to Birmingham.
Sadly it closed in 1960 and was dismantled in the 1980s.
However, it as since been partially restored for heritage trains such as themed trips and Christmas events.
Katherine Parr is buried at the nearby castleCredit: AlamyThe town has enough pubs to choose from for a weekend breakCredit: Alamy
Kids will love the Royal Mail model railway there too which has a Thomas & Friends train track as well as a small cafe.
You aren’t short of pubs in town either if you want a pint and a burger, from The Royal Oak to The Pheasant Inn.
If you’re looking for somewhere to stay, options include The Lion Inn and White Hart Inn as well.
For something more fun, on the outskirts is The Lodge at Winchcombe, a beautiful country house with en-suite bedrooms.
On October 17, 2025, hedge fund TB Alternative Assets Ltd. disclosed a new position in Strategy(MSTR 2.12%), formerly known as MicroStrategy, acquiring 126,000 shares for an estimated $40.6 million.
IMAGE SOURCE: GETTY IMAGES.
What happened
According to a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission dated October 17, 2025, TB Alternative Assets Ltd. disclosed a new position in Strategy during the third quarter ended September 30, 2025. The fund reported owning 126,000 shares worth $40.6 million. The purchase corresponds to an estimated $40.6 million transaction value, calculated using average prices for the reporting period ended September 30, 2025.
What else to know
This new position represents 6.1% of TB Alternative Assets Ltd.’s reportable U.S. equity AUM as of September 30, 2025.
TB Alternative Assets’ top holdings after the filing are:
META: $76.97 million (11.5% of AUM) as of September 30, 2025
GOOG: $58.56 million (8.8% of AUM) as of September 30, 2025
INTC: $51.26 million (7.7% of AUM) as of September 30, 2025
PDD: $45.72 million (6.8% of AUM) as of September 30, 2025
MSTR: $40.60 million (6.1% of AUM) as of September 30, 2025
As of October 16, 2025, shares were priced at $283.84, up 34.3% over the past year and outperforming the S&P 500 by 32.8 percentage points during the same period.
Company Overview
Metric
Value
Revenue (TTM)
$462.32 million
Net Income (TTM)
$4.73 billion
Price (as of market close October 16, 2025)
$283.84
One-Year Price Change
34.3%
Company Snapshot
Strategy provides enterprise analytics solutions, enabling organizations to derive insights from data at scale. The company leverages its robust software platform and specialized services to address complex business intelligence needs for large enterprises.
Strategy offers enterprise analytics software, including a software platform with features such as hyperintelligence, data visualization, reporting, and mobile analytics.
The company generates revenue primarily through software licensing, support services, consulting, and education offerings for enterprise clients. It serves a diversified customer base across industries such as retail, finance, technology, healthcare, and the public sector.
Foolish take
Hedge fund TB Alternative Assets’ investment in Strategy shares is noteworthy for a few reasons. The buy represents an initial position in the stock. Moreover, the hedge fund went big with the purchase, putting Strategy shares into its top five holdings. Lastly, those top holdings are dominated by tech stocks, and although Strategy began as a data analytics software platform, it’s now more of a cryptocurrency play.
Strategy became the first publicly-traded company to buy Bitcoin as part of its capital allocation strategy back in 2020. Since then, it has transformed into “the world’s first and largest Bitcoin Treasury Company,” according to Strategy.
As of July 29, the company holds 3% of all Bitcoin in existence. This brought its Q2 total assets to $64.8 billion with $64.4 billion of that in digital assets. As a result, Strategy’s fortunes rise and fall with the value of the cryptocurrency rather than its software products.
So far, the gamble has paid off. As Bitcoin’s value has risen, so has Strategy’s stock. And now, the company is leveraging its cryptocurrency holdings to offer various Bitcoin-related investment vehicles.
TB Alternative Assets may have found this new direction for the former MicroStrategy a compelling case for investing in the stock. If you’re seeking exposure to Bitcoin, Strategy offers a unique take, and with the stock down from its 52-week high of $543 reached last November, now may be a good time to buy.
Glossary
13F AUM: The total market value of U.S. equity securities reported by an institutional investment manager in quarterly SEC filings. Position: The amount of a particular security or asset held by an investor or fund. Stake: The ownership interest or share held in a company by an investor or fund. Holding: A security or asset owned by an investor or fund, often listed in portfolio disclosures. Outperforming: Achieving a higher return compared to a specific benchmark or index over a given period. Enterprise analytics: Software and tools that help organizations analyze large-scale data to support business decision-making. Business intelligence: Technologies and strategies used to analyze business data and support better decision-making. Software licensing: The practice of granting customers the right to use software under specific terms and conditions. Support services: Assistance provided to customers for software maintenance, troubleshooting, and technical issues. Consulting: Professional advisory services that help organizations implement and optimize software or business processes. TTM: The 12-month period ending with the most recent quarterly report. Reportable U.S. equity AUM: The portion of assets under management invested in U.S. stocks that must be disclosed in regulatory filings.
Robert Izquierdo has positions in Alphabet, Intel, and Meta Platforms. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Alphabet, Bitcoin, Intel, and Meta Platforms. The Motley Fool recommends the following options: short November 2025 $21 puts on Intel. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
People hoping for a great holiday deal might be tempted to book their flights on a Tuesday, but this once beloved travel tip could be outdated.
This travel expert offers alternate ways to planning your big trip(Image: Getty Images/Prasit photo)
Travel expert James Steele at Go2Africa highlighted the misconception that booking flights on a Tuesday could save you money.
Airlines reportedly release discounted fares on Tuesdays – and pricing algorithms were thought to reset every week.
Although this may have been true in the past, James said fares are now “adjusted dynamically with algorithms that look at demand, popularity of the route, and remaining seats”.
Flight deals no longer hinge on what day you are browsing; “flights that look cheap on Tuesday could be even cheaper on Friday,” said James.
Instead, James recommended using price trackers, such as Skyscanner and Google Flights, and pointed out that flexibility on dates could secure you a better deal.
And while the flight hack has been disputed, there are other travel tips that may no longer be valid; here, James unveiled five of the most common travel hacks that you’re better off ignoring – and what to do instead.
1. HACK: ONLY BOOK THE CHEAPEST OR EARLIEST FLIGHTS
James revealed that people will choose the cheapest or earliest flight they can get, in a bid to get what they think is the best option. But he stated that while this might save you some money, it can come with hidden costs that make it less than viable.
He said: “Not only can the cheapest flights come with additional charges, for things like luggage and choosing your seats, that make it more expensive than flights you’ve not considered, they depart at inconvenient times.
“This means waking up in the middle of the night, sacrificing sleep, and spending the first days of your trip exhausted, or wasting your last day by having to get to the airport early.”
What he urges you to do instead: Don’t just think about money when you are booking your flights. There are other options to save money on your trip, so consider prioritising convenience, sleep, and logistics, such as getting to the airport and hotel check-in times, instead. Taking a more holistic approach rather than penny pinching will help you have a more enjoyable holiday.
2. HACK: SAVE MONEY BY NOT BOTHERING WITH TRAVEL INSURANCE
Skipping travel insurance might seem like a simple way to save money, but in reality it can be extremely risky, and end up costing you even more if you get stuck or in trouble.
James added: “From missed flights and lost luggage to unexpected medical emergencies, there are unfortunately many things that can go wrong on your trip that could cost you hundreds, or even thousands, and these costs could be avoided by being insured.”
What he urges you to do instead: Compare insurance providers to get the best prices, and look for coverage that fits your needs and your trip, rather than always choosing the cheapest. This routine ensures you’re covered for what you actually need, and you’re not paying for what you don’t.
3. HACK: STICK TO A STRICT ITINERARY
Travel can be unpredictable. Attractions you’ve been looking forward to seeing can unexpectedly close, weather can change which could mean you can’t go to the beach, and restaurants you saw online can become fully booked.
It’s natural to want to see everything, and not want to feel like you’re wasting any time, but planning every minute of each day of your trip can have its downsides.
James said: “Whether you’re going on a long weekend to Italy or a two week safari in Africa, being too strict with your plans can not only lead to travel burnout, but it can also mean you miss out on spontaneity, hidden gems that aren’t in the guide books, and time to actually relax to enjoy your time away.”
What he urges you to do instead: Make a list of things you must see, but avoid scheduling things back to back so you don’t become tired or rushed. Think about how much time you’ll need to truly appreciate each activity, and leave free time throughout your trip to allow you to relax and explore.
4. HACK: ONLY USE CASH TO CONTROL YOUR BUDGET
Travellers often think that only using cash can help them control their budget. Studies have shown that using a credit card “reduces the pain of payment” and increases the motivation to spend. Saving a fixed amount of money for each day also means you could avoid overspending, but only having cash can be risky, and may not actually save consumers any money.
James offered: “If you run out, you might have to pay additional fees to withdraw more, or could simply miss out on experiences that you can afford, but don’t have the cash to pay for. Having only cash can give you a false sense of frugality, and can lead to you spending money unnecessarily because you don’t want to miss out due to exchange rates when you get home.
“As well as not saving money, only carrying cash means you are more at risk of loss of theft. If you lose your wallet, or it is stolen, you lose your entire travel budget – and a lost card can be easily frozen, unlike lost cash.”
What he urges you to do instead: Make a budget before you travel, but give yourself some room for unexpected purchases and experiences. Bring some local currency for convenience, and things like tips or local markets that don’t accept card. But, don’t rely on it solely as using a combination of cash and card reduces your risk and unnecessary fees. It also provides you with both flexibility and control of your spending.
5. HACK: ROLL ALL OF YOUR CLOTHES TO SAVE SPACE SUITCASE SPACE
The “roll method” has been viral for a long time as the perfect way to pack to maximise space in your suitcase by rolling up everything and placing it in your luggage. However, while it’s perfect for lightweight items like T-shirts, it doesn’t work for bulkier items like jeans and jackets.The process can actually take up more space if it isn’t done correctly, and you can even end up accidentally going over your luggage allowance which will potentially cause problems or cost more money on your travels.
What James urges you to do instead: Roll selectively, folding heavier things and layering them at the bottom. Don’t forget about the space inside shoes that can be filled with small items, so the space isn’t wasted. Don’t pack things “just in case”. Plan full outfits, making sure you can mix and match to avoid taking too much. Dress according to the environment and climate that you are going to be holidaying in while assessing your comfort level on flights regarding the clothing you will wear in transit.
Perpignan is a city in southwest France at the foot of the Pyrenees, just a few kilometres from the Mediterranean. It has a population of around 120,000 people
Perpignan is a city in the southwest of France(Image: Getty)
If you’re looking to change your Eurosummer destination trip, or just go on a little holiday beyond the typical destinations, there’s one place that you must visit.
A stunning French city that’s “almost in Spain” offers the perfect alternative to Paris and Nice. Perpignan is a city in southwest France at the foot of the Pyrenees, just a few kilometres from the Mediterranean. It has a population of around 120,000 people.
Lonely Planet said that it “radiates out from the tight knot of the old town’s warren of alleys, palm-shaded squares and shabby tenements painted in shades of lemon, peach and tangerine”.
Being somewhat more tucked away, the city attracts far fewer tourists than France’s other cities like Paris and Nice, but delivers more Franco-Spanish coastal charm. It sits just 35km from the Spanish border but was considered the centre of the world by artist Salvador Dali. The Spanish surrealist said the city’s train station made him feel a “cosmogonic ecstasy”, reports the Express.
Perpignan’s main attractions include the Palace of the Kings of Majorca, which was built in the 1200s as the mainland castle for the monarchs of the nearby Spanish island. The tower offers the best views in the city.
Other spots on tourist’s to-see lists should be the Cathedral St Jean Baptiste, built through the 1400s with stained glass windows and a Moorish organ, and the Castillet, the city gate built during the 1300s.
There are also a number of art museums and galleries including Hotel Pams, an art nouveau gem that was once a cigarette paper factory, and Musée d’Art Hyacinthe Rigaud, a fine art museum with the baroque style and locally-inspired collections.
Just a short 13km journey from Perpignan, you’ll find the coast, boasting golden sands and azure seas at numerous beaches, as well as charming seaside resorts and towns.
Also within reach are the Pyrenees, the majestic mountain range straddling the France-Spain border. It’s a favourite spot for walkers and cyclists, offering a plethora of routes to explore, including its highest peak, Pico de Aneto. The range is also home to stunning cliffs, lush forests and cascading waterfalls.
For those keen on visiting Perpignan, it’s accessible via train from Paris or by plane from Stansted, Birmingham, Dublin and Leeds. There’s no shortage of accommodation options in the city and its surrounding areas.
Remember when snack choices fueled the most contentious debates around Super Bowl halftime? Cheetos versus Doritos. Hot wings versus garlic knots. And who the hell brought carrot sticks?!
Now Turning Point USA, the far-right organization founded by slain MAGA activist Charlie Kirk, has presented its followers with more tough choices: Who should play at Super Bowl LX’s halftime show?
Never mind that the NFL already announced earlier this month that Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny had landed the spot. Turning Point USA announced Thursday that it would be staging its own counterprogramming in protest of the league’s choice. It’ll be called “The All American Halftime Show” — and it most certainly won’t be in Spanish.
Ever since the NFL announced that Bad Bunny (whose real name is Benito Antonio Martinez Ocasio) would play the Big Game on Feb. 8 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, critics have been decrying the decision as an assault on Americanism.
House Speaker Mike Johnson said booking Bad Bunny was “a terrible decision.”
President Trump, who admitted he’d never heard of Bad Bunny before the late September Super Bowl announcement, said the NFL’s booking of the performer was “absolutely ridiculous.”
White House advisor Corey Lewandowski said it was “shameful they’ve decided to pick somebody who seems to hate America so much.”
Yet in comparison with other artists and celebrities who’ve widely criticized the president and his policies, Bad Bunny is not all that political or outspoken. He has, however, expressed concerns about the potential of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement detaining fans at his concerts. The artist said last month that he would not book any U.S. dates for his tour over fears that fans would be swept up by ICE. “There was the issue of — like, f— ICE could be outside [my concert]. And it’s something that we were talking about and very concerned about,” he told i-D magazine.
That was enough to deem Bad Bunny an enemy of the MAGA state and to characterize his Super Bowl show as part of a larger, hostile Latino invasion.
But let’s call it what it is: politicians and their pundits leveraging Hispanophobia for votes, influence and donations. The performer represents a population that’s been targeted by the current administration via unconstitutional sweeps of brown people in American cities, regardless of their immigration status. Bad Bunny is a U.S. citizen, like many of the folks with no criminal records who’ve been detained and even deported. Vilifying the artist and those who look and speak like him has generated votes for the right and deflected from concerns about the fragile economy and skyrocketing cost of living under Trump.
Turning Point advertises its planned counterprogramming as a show “Celebrating Faith, Family, & Freedom” and asking followers to weigh in on music genres they would like to hear at the alternative halftime show. The first option on the ballot? “Anything in English.”
The survey is situated right under a donate button, and another option to click “yes” to approve receiving “recurring automated promotional & fundraising texts from Turning Point.”
Despite the fact that the 79-year-old president had never heard of the wildly popular artist before, Bad Bunny is a three-time Grammy Award winner, a global superstar and has bested Taylor Swift’s Billboard chart numbers in the U.S.
So who does MAGA think it can get to upstage Bad Bunny at its unofficial Super Bowl side show? House Speaker Johnson suggested that “God Bless the USA” singer Lee Greenwood would attract a “broader audience.” But as Variety pointed out, the 1980s country icon boasts fewer than 500,000 Spotify listeners, compared with Bad Bunny’s 80 million.
Turning Point USA appears to be working on that problem. “Performers and event details coming soon,” said a statement on its site.
During his “Saturday Night Live” guest appearance last weekend, Bad Bunny derided the MAGA freakout around his forthcoming Super Bowl show, delivering his monologue in Spanish. He earnestly thanked his fans for acknowledging the contributions of Latinos in the U.S. Then in closing, he switched to English: “If you didn’t understand what I just said, you have four months to learn.”
No word yet if chips, salsa and guacamole will become the next target of performative, fundraising outrage on the right. Make Pretzels Great Again.
Turning Point USA director Erika Kirk, widow of organization co-founder Charlie Kirk, and other Turning Point USA officials on Thursday announced they plan to host an alternative Super Bowl halftime show on Feb. 8. Photo by Eduardo Barraza/UPI | License Photo
Oct. 9 (UPI) — The Charlie Kirk-co-founded Turning Point USA is planning to host an alternative musical performance called “The All-American Halftime Show” for Super Bowl LX.
Officials for the conservative non-profit announced the planned alternative halftime show on social media but did not say which musical acts and others would perform.
“It’s true, Turning Point USA is thrilled to announce The All-American Halftime Show,” it said in a post on X on Thursday, as reported by Fox News.
The post says the event will celebrate faith, family and freedom.
Turning Point USA has created a website to present the halftime show and asked online visitors to choose which musical genres they would like to see perform.
Survey results so far show support for country, rock, hip hop and “anything in English,” The Hill reported.
The event would air while rapper Benito Antonio Martiniz Ocasio, aka Bad Bunny, performs during the Super Bowl’s halftime show headliner.
The musical artist from Puerto Rico has won three Grammy Awards since his career took off in 2016.
He also is slated to be named Billboard’s Latin Artist of the 21st Century during the 2025 Billboard Latin Music Awards on Oct.23.
Bad Bunny is undertaking a world tour but has refused to perform in the United States, other than during the Super Bowl.
He has cited concerns that Immigration and Customs Enforcement might target his U.S. shows and detain audience members, according to Axios.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt recently dismissed such concerns and said there are no plans in place to raid Bad Bunny concerts.
Despite Leavitt’s denial, DHS adviser Corey Lewandowski recently suggested ICE agents would attend Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl performance.
Lewandowski made the claim while appearing on “The Benny Show” podcast on Oct. 1.
“There is nowhere that you can provide a safe haven to the people in this country illegally,” he told podcast host Benny Johnson.
The Super Bowl is scheduled for Feb. 8 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif.
AS someone who tried and failed for years to master the art of the at-home blowout, I have the rise of air tools to thank for my transformed hair styling routine.
Every hair tool under the sun promises “salon-worthy results at home,” and I’ve been testing theShark FlexStylehair tool for a year to determine if it can truly deliver.
Before and after using the FlexStyle’s auto-wrap curling barrels
Shark FlexStyle Air Styler and Hair Dryer, £229.99 (was £279.99)
Known originally for its popular vacuums, Shark branched out into the beauty tech space in 2022 with the launch of the FlexStyle Air Styling and Drying System.
The beauty gadget features five different attachments, with an option to build your own bundle based on your hair type.
All of the FlexStyle attachments can also be bought separately on the Shark website for £24.99 each, so you can add to your collection over time.
Shark swooped in at a time when beauty enthusiasts were searching for a more affordable alternative to the £400+ Airwrap.
At £279.99, it’s still an investment, but it’s a fraction of the cost of a Dyson Airwrap i.d.
Is it worth ditching your current tools for an all-in-one gadget? Read below for my full Shark FlexStyle review.
Pros:
Creates voluminous blow-outs
Minimal heat damage
Requires little effort (once you nail the technique)
Multiple attachments included
Option to build your own set
Easy to switch between styler and dryer
Cheaper than similar alternatives
Cons:
Noisy
Bulky for travelling
Takes a while to master the technique
Hot brush attachment can feel rough on the hair
Rating: 8/10
How I tested the Shark FlexStyle Air Styler
I have the Shark FlexStyle 5-in-1 Air Styling and Drying System
Shark FlexStyle Air Styler and Hair Dryer, £229.99 (was £279.99)
As The Sun’s Fashion and Beauty eCommerce Writer, it’s my job to try out products that are causing a buzz in the industry.
I’m obsessed with all things beauty, so I’ve tested my fair share of hair stylers over the years, including the best Dyson Airwrap dupe and my Dyson Airwrap i.d review, but it takes a lot for one to become a regular in my routine.
The hype around the Shark FlexStyle is still going, and I can confidently share my thoughts after trialling the tool for a year.
The Smoothing Concentrator (hair drying nozzle) and Auto-Wrap Curling Barrels are my go-to FlexStyle attachments, so I’ll be talking mostly about them.
But I’ve also tested the Paddle Brush, Oval Brush and Fizz Fighter heads.
For reference, I have long, wavy hair that can get frizzy after washing, and I have extensions.
Shark FlexStyle review: Quickfire Q&A
How much is the Shark FlexStyle? The beauty tech tool would usually set you back between £250 and £300, but the build-your-own version is currently on sale for £199.99 on the Shark website.
Who’s it best for? As it has multiple functions, all hair types are likely to benefit, although I’d say it’s most effective for those with long and thick hair because it speeds up drying time and holds a curl for longer on thick tresses.
What we loved: How efficiently it creates a voluminous blow-out without causing heat damage, and how the attachments can create a range of styles.
What we didn’t: The loud noise it makes during use, and the fact that it’s too bulky for travelling.
Shark FlexStyle attachments: In the classic set or build-your-own bundle, the following accessories are available: Paddle Brush, Oval Brush, Auto-Wrap Curlers, Styling Concentrator, Diffuser, FrizzFighter Finishing Tool and Wide Tooth Comb.
Shark FlexStyle 5-in-1 air styler review: The Nitty Gritty
First impressions
1
The Shark hair tool comes with two curling barrels for each side of the head
Shark FlexStyle Air Styler and Hair Dryer, £229.99 (was £279.99)
Every beauty influencer in existence seems to own the FlexStyle, so I was pretty familiar with its appearance before trying it out.
While sleek in design, the cable and attachments together are on the bulky side (which is to be expected due to its multiple functions), but it’s meant I’ve avoided travelling with it so far.
When purchasing the FlexStyle, shoppers can select the five-in-one bundle, or mix and match their own (choosing four attachments).
I have the model that comes with five attachments: Auto-Wrap Curlers (one for each side of the head), a Paddle Brush, an Oval Brush, a Styling Concentrator, and a Diffuser.
My Fizz Fighter Finishing Tool is a new addition, which I bought separately to try and tame my frizz at my roots.
As I have attachments in my bundle that I don’t use (the diffuser, as it’s designed for curly/ coily hair), I would recommend the Build Your Own Hair Styling and Drying System to get the most for your money.
Does it deliver?
If you’re looking for a way to create bouncy blow-outs yourself, the Shark FlexStyle absolutely delivers, but it does take practice to perfect the process.
My biggest reservation about the FlexStyle before trying it was the drying system.
The FlexStyle rotates to transform from a styler to a hair dryer
Shark FlexStyle Air Styler and Hair Dryer, £229.99 (was £279.99)
A multitasking styler runs the risk of being a jack of all trades but a master of none, but Shark has ensured its hair dryer doesn’t compromise on power.
I swear by my Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer for quick results on my long hair, and the FlexStyle pretty much matches its drying time.
Call me easily pleased, but the way the tool rotates between a dryer and a styler is one of my favourite features.
The fact that it twists into a right angle makes it so much easier to use, and — in a common theme with the FlexStyle — it never makes me feel like I’m overworking to get results.
There are three heat and power settings (I tend to use mine on full blast), and following the instructions of online videos, I always use the Cool Shot feature for locking the style in place.
The Paddle Brush (for straight styles) and the Oval Brush (for blow-outs) both have boar and plastic bristles that are great for gripping the hair, but I’d recommend being gentle to avoid snagging the hair.
The newest addition to my routine is the Frizz Fighter Finishing Tool.
Like the barrels, it attracts the hair, gliding from the root to smooth frizz and flyaways, essentially enhancing the effects of the other attachments.
Now, for quite possibly the main selling point — the Auto-Wrap Curling Barrels.
My curls drop out the following day, but still give a blown-out look
Shark FlexStyle Air Styler and Hair Dryer, £229.99 (was £279.99)
I have to admit, I was quickly humbled when I realised that the beauty influencers were making the process look far easier than it is.
The airflow technology makes the air wrap around the barrel automatically to create a curl, but I struggled with getting it to pick up the hair for the first few attempts.
And when I did, the curl would drop out within the first few hours.
After plenty of practice (and TikTok tutorials), I managed to master the method, but patience is needed.
I found the key is keeping the sections small as it makes it easier for the hair to wrap, and use a product to hold the curls (I swear by the Colour Wow XL Volumiser).
Unlike when I use curling tongs, the curls aren’t going to last me for days on end, but they do look great that day, and after sleeping on them, I’m left with a subtle wave that I’ll sometimes go over with the barrels.
I also find the whole process to be far more enjoyable than curling my hair with tongs (which could be down to years of the same routine) – and the airflow makes creating curls far more efficient.
The one thing I’d change about the FlexStyle is the noise.
Shark upgraded the barrels in the 2025 version of the FlexStyle
Shark FlexStyle Air Styler and Hair Dryer, £229.99 (was £279.99)
When my roommate borrows it, I can hear the whirring from the other side of the flat, so it’s not one you could use while watching TV or late at night.
Keeping heat damage to a minimum is important to me as I already put enough strain on my hair with bleach, extensions and frequent styling.
Can I confidently say that the FlexStyle causes zero damage? No.
But can I confidently say that it creates a salon-worthy blow-out while causing far, far less damage than other hair tools? Absolutely.
Results aside, I can tell when I’m using the FlexStyle that it’s transferring way less heat than a tong or straightener (you can read my article on the best hair straighteners here).
There’s no burning smell (and if there is, you may need to clean the filter), and my hair has felt healthier since ditching the tongs for the FlexStyle regularly.
I love how my hair turns out every time I use the Shark FlexStyle, and it’s absolutely worth investing time to master the technique in order to get professional-looking results.
The verdict: Shark FlexStyle 5-in-1 Air Style
The FlexStyle is a great option for those who want to create bouncy blow-outs with minimal skill and effort.
It takes some practice to get used to, especially when using the curling attachments, and can be quite noisy, but for me, the pros far outweigh the cons.
For its price and versatility (it works as a dryer, brush and curling tool), the FlexStyle is a semi-affordable option – it’s cheaper than its competitors – that takes care of your whole haircare routine in one.
Shark FlexStyle Build Your Own Styling and Drying System, £199.99 (was £249.99) – buy here
Shark FlexStyle FAQs:
Shark FlexStyle price
The Shark FlexStyle isn’t cheap, but if you’re keen to invest in a does-it-all hair tool, it’s more affordable than its competitors.
There are several colourways to choose from, including the limited-edition sparkle FlexStyle that comes in stunning champagne and black shades (and would be perfect if you’re buying the styler as a gift).
The full list of places to shop online:
Is the Shark FlexStyle worth it?
Using the Shark FlexStyle takes some practice to get it right, but once you get the technique down, it’s so worth it.
The styler works effectively on long and thick hair, but those with fine hair will need to work harder for long-lasting curls.
At over £250+, it’s not cheap, but if you blow-dry and curl your hair regularly, it’s an investment worth considering.
A visit to Lapland to see Father Christmas is just a pipedream for most people, with a short stay generally costing thousands – but there is a far cheaper way to experience the magic of the snowy wonderland without breaking the bank
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There is a cheaper way to enjoy the festive delights in Lapland(Image: Getty Images)
Whether you want to admit it or not, Christmas really is on its way and it will be here sooner than you think.
Your flip flops may still be lingering redundant at the front door in the hope of some warm autumn sun but they’ll be joined by hats and scarfs very soon, which you’ll be throwing on to rush out and get those last minute Xmas gifts.
If you’ve always hoped one of them would be to take the kids (or just yourself) to Lapland to see the big fella in his homeland, but never believed you could afford it – there is a much less costly way to make those childhood festive dreams of a trip of a lifetime come true.
The Santa Village and the Arctic Circle in Northern Finland is where Santa has lived for centuries and is a top destination for those in search of the all round festive experience. The village in Rovaniemi is open every day of the year but many prefer to go during the Christmas period.
We took a look at costs for a family of four to stay at the village itself for two nights during December and it’s fair to say most families would be priced out.
The family suite (double bed and a sofa bed and armchair bed) was the only option available with the cheaper cottages having sold out. It came in at around £1,683 for both nights.
For anyone who wants to splash out even more there is a villa which can be rented in its entirety or it’s also possible to rent half of it as an apartment. The smaller of the two apartments comes in at just over £13,000 in total for four people staying two nights on December 15 and 16.
Admittedly the accommodation appears to be the height of luxury and includes breakfast. There’s even the option of a private chef preparing it for you for £262 extra per morning if you can’t be bothered to pop your bread in the toaster yourself.
Father Christmas himself will even make a VIP private visit to the apartment for around 30 minutes but he doesn’t come cheap either, he’s a busy man after all. You’ll have to fork out around £778 if you want Santa on your sofa.
Return flights with Syscanner from London Gatwick to Rovaniemi on 15 December – 17 December come in around £862 in total for reasonable times but still won’t land until 18.10 on the first night. Obviously you’ll pay more for kinder flight times that don’t involve getting up or home in the middle of the night.
If you went for the cheaper option for flights and accommodation you would be looking at a total cost of £2,545 or £13,862 for the high end apartment. These estimates DON’T include travel to and from the airport or the cost of any meals, refreshments or added extras such as husky or reindeer sled rides (the luxury apartment includes breakfast).
However those wishing there was a cheaper way to enjoy the winter wonderland, could consider arranging alternative accommodation and adding in an extra festive experience that will also save money. It is generally cheaper to fly to Helsinki from the UK. We found an early morning flight leaving Gatwick for £218 in total for four passengers on the same date, again via Skyscanner.
Once there you can pick up the overnight Santa Express (sadly he doesn’t actually drive the double decker train), which runs from Helsinki to snow-capped Lapland in the north.
The journey takes approximately 12 hours which means you can really relish the beauty of the Finnish landscape as you head towards Father Christmas. If you’re lucky you may even get to marvel at the natural stunning phenomena of the Northern Lights which are often visible here before being rocked off to sleep, waking up in the Arctic Circle the next morning.
This option combines travel and the first night’s accommodation in one, making it so much cheaper all round. Standard sleeper cabins start from £43 and cabins with showers start from £65. It is advised to book early and directly through the Finnish national rail company VR.
Recent travellers on the Santa Express have shared their experiences on Tripadvisor, where the train has a 4.2 rating: “This overnight train ride was a fun and unique way for our family to travel to Lapland. It added to the excitement of our trip and gave us a chance to relax before arriving in Rovaniemi,” one wrote. “We would recommend it to families looking for an authentic Finnish travel experience.”
Another family were also pleasantly surprised: “The rooms/cabins exceeded our expectations. Admittedly, we had concerns about selecting this mode of transport between Helsinki and Rovaniemi but we were looking forward to a new experience. It really did help establish a festive feeling as we embarked on our first trip to Lapland,” they shared.
Once you arrive in Rovaniemi you can head straight to the Santa Village, where entry is free. There’s not even a charge to meet the man himself in his big red house but prepare for queues at busy periods. Added extras such as a picture with him will come with a price tag though.
The Arctic Circle runs through the village and you can cross it in the central square – again totally free. Make some lifelong memories by taking your own pictures of the family jumping or hopping across the line in the sparkly surroundings.
There are plenty of other activities in the village, such as husky rides and snowmobile safaris but for those on a tight budget there’s lots of fun to be had simply soaking up the frozen landscape’s atmosphere after a special meet with Santa.
Once your day in the village is over, rather than staying on site, it’s possible to find much cheaper alternatives in Rovaniemi itself. We found an entire studio apartment on booking.comjust 0.6 miles from the city centre for £260 for the whole family. After a restful night full of festive dreams, you can catch a flight back to Gatwick from nearby Rovaniemi airport. We found one with Skyscanner for £392.
Below are the totals for both Lapland trips and the savings that could be made. Estimates are for a family of four staying two nights between 15 – 17 December. Neither includes meals, refreshments or extras. Prices were correct at the time of writing:
Total for the Santa Village suite (cheaper of the two): £2,545
Total estimate for the alternative Lapland package using the Santa Express: £956
Using data from TripAdvisor, Numbeo, LightPollutionMap.info, and official tourist sources, 30 cities was scored across five stress factors: tourist density, hotel density, noise, light pollution, and crime rates
10:30, 01 Sep 2025Updated 10:43, 01 Sep 2025
Florence can feel a little intense (Image: Getty Images/Glowimages RF)
Popularity does not always equal quality.
At least that is according to Icelandair, which has commissioned analysis of 30 popular European destinations to highlight those which might be worth skipping when you come to booking your next holiday.
Using data from TripAdvisor, Numbeo, LightPollutionMap.info, and official tourist sources, each city was scored across five stress factors: tourist density, hotel density, noise, light pollution, and crime rates.
At the top of the pile was Florence in Italy. Known as the cradle of the Renaissance, Florence attracts more than 5.2 million visitors annually, which is the equivalent of around 10 tourists arriving every minute. Given its population of 362,000, each year roughly 15 tourists arrive for every local.
More than five million people visit Florence each year(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
The majority of visitors are packed into the city centre, where most of Florence’s 2,000 hotels are located. Florence has one of the highest tourist and hotel densities in Europe. Add in heavy noise levels and some of the brightest light pollution recorded in this index, the city can feel less than tranquil.
I’ve visited Florence a number of times and have been taken aback by the intensity of the crowds. If you’re in town, you’ve got to lay your eyes on perhaps the world’s best known sculpture, Michelangelo’s David, who stands in all his marble-clad glory in the Accademia Gallery. If you do fancy a glimpse of that historically toned bod, then make sure you’ve got your elbows sharpened.
The area around David is always packed, and efforts to admire his splendour are often thwarted by an elevated selfie stick. It can be as dissatisfying an experience as viewing the Mona Lisa in the Louvre.
Once you’ve escaped the hustle and bustle of the Accademia, you’ll have to re-gird your loins for a trip to the Uffizi Gallery, which sits next to the Piazza della Signoria. The gallery is packed full of works from the Italian Renaissance, having been gifted to the Uffizi when the House of Medici died out.
Top of most visitors’ list is a spot of serious swooning in front of two of Botticelli’s most famous paintings – Primavera and The Birth of Venus. They are both huge and both fantastic. However, much like David, getting close enough to have a decent look can be difficult.
Lucca is a great, calmer alternative (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Once you’ve decided that you’ve had enough art for one day, you’d be forgiven for heading back to the Piazza della Signoria for a quick rest and recalibration. There you’ll find yourself bombarded with street performers, overheated children and worst of all, mimes.
While Florence should, arguably, be visited once in a lifetime, if you’re open to alternatives, then Lucca is a great choice. The city is about a quarter of the size and situated an hour’s train ride from Florence, closer to the Cinque Terre coastline and Pisa, meaning getting there from the region’s main airport is a breeze.
And if you do visit Lucca, you’ll quickly realise it’s no downgrade. I have spent several afternoons walking through and around the city on its perfectly preserved Renaissance-era defensive walls. They provide a wonderful route through Lucca and are largely free from crowds, beyond the occasional wandering local and cyclist.
In its medieval core, you will find attractions such as the Guinigi Tower, the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro and the birthplace of composer Giacomo Puccini. Head to Piazza dell’Anfiteatro for a bite to eat when you’re down culture vulturing. It may be central and popular, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t lovely. In fact, it consistently hits a sweet spot of lively but not overwhelming.
As the Cotswolds suffers from mass tourism, this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Lincolnshire has become an increasingly attractive alternative to Brits in the know
From the port of Stari Grad, one of the oldest towns in Europe, we slip into the water and begin swimming out of the harbour, past the church of Saint Jerome and around a pine-clad headland to a nearby bay on Hvar’s northern coast. We emerge like an amphibious invasion force – about 160 swimmers, making our way to the hotel pool bar where drinks await. So far, so civilised. But this is only a warm-up …
On 24 August 1875, Captain Matthew Webb became the first person to swim the Channel, slathered in animal fat to fend off the cold. At the time, it was heralded as a feat of near-superhuman endurance. One hundred and fifty years later, I signed up for a modern take on the 33.3km (21-mile) swim (the shortest distance across the Channel, although Webb was blown off course and ended up swimming something like 63km). This Croatian adaptation involves swimming between islands off the Dalmatian coast, is split across four days and includes a welcoming hotel (the three-star Places Hvar by Valamar) to recuperate in at the end of each day. And thankfully, neoprene has replaced tallow.
The trip is run by UltraSwim 33.3, a new company named after the Channel stretch, offering multiday swim challenges in spectacular locations – Croatia, Montenegro, Greece and Switzerland – with an emphasis on comfort and support.
“The Channel is the Everest of swims,” says Mark Turner, UltraSwim 33.3’s co-founder. “But the window to do it is short, it’s expensive, and – let’s be honest – not a particularly appetising stretch of water. With us, you get the same distance in beautiful surroundings, without having to rough it.”
The writer, ‘trying not to think about how far I am from dry land’
I’ve been on swimming holidays before with companies such as SwimTrek and Strel Swimming Adventures, and I’ve swum up to 5km a day, but with breaks for drinks, lunch and soaking up the sun. UltraSwim takes a more structured, challenge-oriented approach. Each day begins early – we are in the water by 8am, before boat traffic picks up – and swimmers go up to 12km without pausing for more than a quick pit stop.
A detailed training plan landed in my inbox after I’d signed up and I quickly realised I wasn’t fit enough, or perhaps was mentally unprepared, for the full 33.3km swim. Thankfully, there were two shorter options available: the 11.1km “Discovery” and the 22.2km “Build” packages, both nodding to the Channel challenge.
On the first day, we set off from a jetty close to the hotel and, within minutes, I spot an octopus waving lazily from its underwater garden. I’d love to linger, but time and tide wait for no swimmer. Several kilometres later, I stumble out of the water on to the beach at Uvala Veli Dolac, exhausted but elated. We are greeted by a spread of high-energy snacks and a lot of talk about carb loading – a far cry from Webb’s fuelling strategy of beer, brandy and beef tea.
According to the Channel Swimming and Piloting Federation, Webb’s swim has now been repeated 3,250 times. The endurance trend is visible in other areas, too, from ultramarathons and multiday cycling tours to open-water relays. Increasingly, it seems, people want to return from holiday not rested but with a sense of accomplishment.
On days two and three, we tackle some proper “Channel” swims across 2-3km stretches of open water, from the Kabal headland to Stiniva beach, and Cape Pelegrin to Palmižana. On the map these are marked as ferry routes, but the views I enjoyed from the deck when I arrived in Hvar – all pine-studded islands and turquoise waters – feel very different when in the water: a distant headland to aim for, choppy seas and the occasional jellyfish.
I’ve never attempted anything quite like this before, and it’s not a challenge I relish. But I put my head down and try not to think about how far I am from dry land. There’s a GPS tracker in my tow float, kayakers on either side, and a clear course to follow – thankfully more straightforward than the one Webb swam, where strong tides dragged him way off course, turning a 21-mile crossing into a 39-mile slog.
Stari Grad on Hvar, one of the oldest towns in Europe. Photograph: Nathaniel Noir/Alamy
As I swim for just over two hours, I find it hard to fathom how he kept going for nearly 22. I distract myself by recalling snapshots from the trip: the 16th-century Tvrdalj Castle in Stari Grad, where the poet Petar Hektorović once lived; and the Diocletian’s Palace in Split, where I spent a relaxed day exploring its golden alleyways and multiple layers of history, from the Roman and Venetian empires to Yugoslavia and the past 30 years of an independent Croatia.
Once we complete the open-water channels, we circle back into gentler waters around the Pakleni archipelago, covered with the pine, wild rosemary and lavender that flavours the local honey. The name “Pakleni” comes from paklina, a pine resin once used for boat building.
Our 160-strong group is made up of swimmers from across the globe, from as far and wide as Brazil, Dubai and Australia. There are almost equal numbers of men and women, with ages ranging from 20 to 73. Some are training for an actual Channel crossing, others just want a challenge.
“It’s type-two fun,” Joe from Dublin tells me. “The kind that’s only fun after it’s over.” I think I’m more of a type-one (enjoying things at the time) person, but I do enjoy swimming across the sun-dappled kelp forests, the calm rhythm of stroke after stroke, and the quiet pride of finishing each day’s swim.
The Pakleni archipelago, off the southwest coast of Hvar island. Photograph: Ivan Coric/Alamy
“We find that people surprise themselves,” says Turner. “The way we structure it with pacing and support, swimmers who’ve never gone beyond a few kilometres leave feeling they’ve done something extraordinary.”
Non-swimming partners aren’t left out. They can follow by boat, cheer from the shore or explore Stari Grad and Hvar. One non-swimmer told me he’d racked up a fair few kilometres on an ebike, visiting lavender farms, vineyards and sleepy fishing villages. “Other than a brief dip, swimming’s not really my thing,” he shrugged. “But my girlfriend loves it, so we’re both happy.”
On the final day, we aim for the bell tower of St Stephen’s Cathedral and swim the last few kilometres into Hvar’s harbour, emerging beside the Venetian arsenal to a glass of champagne, handed to us after we pass the finishing posts, to bemused stares from regular tourists.
A few hours later, after a soothing massage in a spa hotel, I’m wandering Hvar’s labyrinthine streets, stopping to enjoy fresh fish and Croatian wine, with no more talk of carb loading. I didn’t win anything. I didn’t swim the full 33.3km. But I completed the 11.1km course and tasted something akin to what Captain Webb must have felt: the slow, steady triumph of body over distance, albeit without the freezing water of the Channel, or the beef tea. And, instead of the pale grey cliffs of Cap Gris-Nez to signal the end, the golden limestone of Hvar.
The trip was provided by UltraSwim 33.3. Packages from €1,800pp for four nights (in a group of four, the fourth swimmer goes half-price), including hotel accommodation, breakfasts, post-swim lunches and guided swims. The next Croatia dates are in 2026 but places are available this year on trips to Montenegro, Greece and Switzerland
The US State Department announced it is now considering “alternative options” for Gaza after Special Representative Steve Witkoff left negotiations in Qatar, accusing Hamas of not “acting in good faith.”
Millions of passengers will soon be whizzed over from long-stay car parks to their terminal in a sleek new fleet of futuristic vehicles following a £14 million sustainability investment
The airport has spent £14m on the upgrade(Image: Getty Images)
One of the busiest UK airports is ditching gas-guzzling buses as part of a huge £14 million investment. Last year, London Gatwick Airport – which is owned and managed by VINCI Airports and Global Infrastructure Partners – handled a whopping 43.2 million passengers.
Many of these travellers will have used the hub’s Park & Ride, which allows customers to park their vehicle at a designated car park outside of the airport and then take a shuttle bus to the terminal. It’s often much cheaper to use this option than using the roll-up parking, which can total up to a whopping £75 per day.
The new electric buses won’t be deployed until later this year(Image: Gatwick Airport)
But passengers using Park & Ride will soon be whizzed over to the airport in a futuristic tram powered solely by electricity. Gatwick has confirmed it has signed a contract with Irizar e-mobility to bring 14 new electric tram-style buses – all of which are 18 metres long – to transfer passengers from the long-stay car parks to the terminals.
The move is expected to save 17.7 tCO2e in carbon emissions per year, and is part of the airport’s sustainability efforts to decarbonise the aviation industry.
The Irizar ie trams, which are known for their futuristic and minimalistic design, will all be equipped with luggage racks inside for ‘greater comfort and functionality’. The vehicles use the latest generation Irizar batteries and are charged using an ultra-fast pantograph system, which can do a full charge in less than six minutes.
The new fleet with transport passengers over from long stay car parks – without using a drop of petrol(Image: Getty Images)
“In addition, with the goal of improving safety, the new buses will be equipped with digital vision cameras, which significantly improves the front, side and rear visibility,” Irizar said in a statement. “In this way, Irizar e-mobility is expanding their electromobility solutions in the United Kingdom, where more than 50 Irizar electric buses are already operating in several cities.”
The Mirror was told the electric buses won’t be deployed until around Christmas time this year.Steve Kelso, Head of Engineering at London Gatwick added: “We’re excited to have 14 new electric tram busses coming to London Gatwick. We are playing our part to decarbonise the aviation sector and as we grow, we must do it sustainably.
“The electric buses are part of our transition to a fully electric vehicle fleet and just one example of our Decade of Change sustainability strategy in action.”
Last week (July 9), Gatwick celebrated another landmark after its first-ever electric flight landed at the hub, as part of the VINCI Airports Network Elektro Tour. The 50-flight leg tour, an early-stage proof of concept, coincides with the delivery of 47 new electric vehicles at London Gatwick, including airside operations and engineering cars.
This is part of the airport’s mission to upgrade its 300-strong vehicle fleet to fully electric by 2023 to support its broader £250m decarbonisation programme to achieve net zero for its own emissions in the next five years. Mark Johnston, chief operating officer at London Gatwick said: “We’re pleased to welcome the VINCI Airport’s Elektro Tour team to the airport, this might just be the smallest aircraft to ever land at London Gatwick!
“We’re proud to be playing our part in supporting wider efforts to decarbonise the aviation sector. Our vision is to be the airport for everyone, whatever your journey, and as we grow, we must do it sustainably. Our transition to an electric vehicle fleet is just one example of our Decade of Change sustainability strategy in action.”
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National Public Radio journalist Felix Contreras, best known for chronicling Latino music in his podcast “Alt.Latino,” will be honored this year at the 38th annual Hispanic Heritage Awards.
The Hispanic Heritage Foundation named Contreras as a recipient of the 2025 Hispanic Heritage Award for journalism on Thursday, one of several honors bestowed on notable public figures for their accomplishments and cultural contributions to the Latino communities.
Past awardees at the Hispanic Heritage Awards include Bad Bunny, America Ferrera, Becky G, J Balvin and others; Contreras is one of the few journalists to receive the esteemed honor, one he says is hard for him to accept.
“We learn early on that [journalists] are not supposed to be the story,” explains Contreras in a phone call with The Times. “That’s the largest stumbling block as to why I’m having a difficult time accepting this accolade.”
Known among friends and colleagues as “Tío Felix,” a familial term of endearment, Contreras has been a dedicated reporter for close to 50 years. Born and raised in Sacramento, he began his journalistic career as a TV news photographer for the NBC affiliate station in Fresno until 1998, later transitioning to NBC News in Miami.
“My point has always been to tell our Latino stories through the news, good or bad,” he says.
Contreras began working for NPR in 2001 as a producer and reporter for the news arts desk. In 2010, he co-created the innovative “Alt.Latino” radio program and podcast alongside NPR’s current immigration correspondent Jasmine Garsd. It was a way to fill the dearth of coverage of alternative Latino music — Spanish-language stations gave little airtime to alternative rock groups such as Los Fabulosos Cadillacs or Café Tacvba, says Contreras. Their first guest on the show was a young, then-burgeoning artist from Colombia named Juanes, who appeared just after releasing his debut album, “Fíjate Bien.”
At first, it was an uphill battle to get artists to recognize the podcast’s cultural significance. “ We had to beg people to send us their CDs,” Contreras admits.
Now in its 15th year, “Alt.Latino” has become a go-to hub for Latin music enthusiasts looking to learn more on the rise of musica mexicana, the rumblings of Latin jazz, the transformation of Latin rock and more.
“Independent artists, alternative artists, even some pop artists now consider ‘Alt.Latino’ and NPR as a viable source to get their artist seen or heard,” Contreras says.
To this day, Contreras continues in his role as co-host of “Alt.Latino,” now alongside Tiny Desk producer Anamaria Sayre, who says she cried when she heard Contreras was being recognized.
“ Felix created space for us in the music media landscape in where there wasn’t previously,” says Sayre, who has been working with Contreras since 2023. “He did it with no one telling him that what he was doing was valuable.”
The 38th annual Hispanic Heritage Awards will take place on Sept. 4 at the Warner Theatre in Washington, D.C.
Representative Rohit Khanna says the US needs a ‘21st Century Marshall Plan’ to regain prosperity and unity.
United States President Donald Trump promised Americans that his crackdown on immigration would lead to a better life, but “now they’re seeing that isn’t working”, argues Democratic Congressman Rohit Khanna.
Khanna tells host Steve Clemons that the Democratic Party “needs to respect American voters”. Americans “want to have hope again in America … They’re tired of threatening to arrest each other.”
He says Elon Musk could be an asset for Democrats, as he opposes several Trump initiatives, such as banning all international students, gutting scientific research, imposing blanket tariffs, and adding to the US government debt.
ECB President Christine Lagarde argues the US economic policy shifts have created inroads for the euro to the standard currency for future global trade.
The euro could become a viable alternative to the US dollar as the global standard currency for international trade, according to European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde.
In a speech in Berlin, Germany, Lagarde said on Monday that the erratic economic policy of the United States has spooked global investors into limiting their exposure to the dollar in recent months. Many have opted to invest in gold, without seeing a viable alternative.
“The ongoing changes create the opening for a ‘global euro moment’,” she said.
Lagarde said investors seek “geopolitical assurance in another form: they invest in the assets of regions that are reliable security partners and can honour alliances with hard power”.
“The global economy thrived on a foundation of openness and multilateralism underpinned by US leadership … but today it is fracturing.”
The dollar’s role has been on the decline for years and now makes up 58 percent of international reserves, the lowest in decades, but still well above the euro’s 20 percent share.
Any enhanced role for the euro must coincide with greater military strength that can back up partnerships, Lagarde said.
Europe should also make the euro the currency of choice for businesses invoicing international trade, she said. This could be supported by forging new trade agreements, enhanced cross-border payments and liquidity agreements with the ECB.
Looming challenges
The euro’s global role has been stagnant for decades now since the European Union’s financial institutions remain unfinished and governments have shown little appetite to embark on more integration.
For this, Europe needs a deeper, more liquid capital market, must bolster its legal foundations, and needs to underpin its commitment to open trade with security capabilities, Lagarde argued.
Reforming the domestic economy may be more pressing, however, she said. The euro area capital market is still fragmented, inefficient and lacks a truly liquid, widely available safe asset that investors could flock to.
“Economic logic tells us that public goods need to be jointly financed. And this joint financing could provide the basis for Europe to gradually increase its supply of safe assets,” Lagarde said.
Joint borrowing has been taboo for some key eurozone members, particularly Germany, which fears that its taxpayers could end up having to pay for the fiscal irresponsibility of others.
If Europe succeeded, the benefits would be large, Lagarde said. The investment inflow would allow domestic players to borrow at lower cost, insulate the bloc from exchange rate movements and protect it against international sanctions.
Coinbase may owe customers up to $400 million after hackers steal confidential data.
And with ByBit being duped for $1.5 billion in March, this marks the second major centralized exchange exploit in two months. As such, traders are fleeing to secure self-custody crypto wallets like Best Wallet.
Coinbase Hackers Steal Customer Data
According to a Coinbase tweet, “rogue overseas support agents” handed over customer data, including names, addresses, emails, and official government documents, to hackers.
Coinbase revealed that less than 1% of monthly active accounts were compromised, and that no passwords, private keys, or funds were exposed.
Cyber criminals bribed and recruited rogue overseas support agents to pull personal data on <1% of Coinbase MTUs. No passwords, private keys, or funds were exposed. Prime accounts are untouched. We will reimburse impacted customers. More here: https://t.co/SidVn59JCV
Its CEO CEO Brian Armstrong publicly addressed the situation on X, revealing that the hackers have demanded a $20 million ransom. Rather than folding, Coinbase announced a $20 million reward fund that will pay anyone for information that leads to the hackers’ arrest and conviction.
He underlined that the hackers aimed to use the data for phishing scams. That is, to impersonate Coinbase support agents and trick users into handing over their funds or more valuable account information.
Armstrong said that Coinbase will reimburse any users who lost funds resulting from the hack. He estimates this could cost the company up to $400 million.
Coinbase’s stock dropped by 7.2% after news broke.
However, some critics are concerned that the ramifications of this exploit run deeper. Operational security (OPSEC) is crucial in crypto, and people can be targeted in real life if they are known to hold large amounts of digital assets.
Reuters reported that Ledger co-founder David Balland was kidnapped in France in January and held for ransom until he was rescued in a police operation, for example.
OPSEC-aware crypto users are well aware of this danger, and so are concerned.
“The combination of data exposed here (real-life addresses, crypto addresses, and amount and real-life ID documents) is lethal,” wrote Lefteris Karapetsas on X.
Meanwhile, Nansen AI CEO Alex Svanevik called for US President Donald Trump to “dismantle the KYC/AML complex.”
It’s time for @realDonaldTrump to dismantle the KYC/AML complex.
All it does is compromise personal data for regular people – at an immense cost. Meanwhile practically no real criminals are caught.
Dismantling KYC regulations would mean exchanges could hold less customer data, helping protect their privacy.
However, users can already protect their privacy through KYC-free crypto wallets. And right now, Best Wallet appears as one of the most secure options.
Best Wallet Brings Unmatched Security to the Wallet Space
Best Wallet is a KYC-free crypto wallet with a seamless user experience and market-leading security.
Being KYC-free means Best Wallet users retain complete privacy and hackers can’t steal their data.
But it doesn’t stop there. The wallet employs advanced fraud protection to help flag and block crypto scams. It also uses multi-level cryptographic technology for decentralized account recovery. This includes integrating support for Apple and Google accounts, so that users can easily retrieve access to their wallet, even without knowing their private keys.
When it comes to user experience, Best Wallet’s offerings go well beyond those of its peers. The wallet supports over 60 different blockchains, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, XRP, and Cardano. It also has a cross-chain DEX and even supports derivatives trading.
In addition, the wallet boasts features like a token launchpad, a crypto debit card, a staking aggregator, an NFT gallery, and more.
While making crypto much safer, Best Wallet also creates a seamless and frictionless user experience. It looks like it’s building the future of Web3.
$BEST Presale Soars Past $12M as Wallet Narrative Deepens
The Best Wallet Token offers ecosystem benefits, including trading fee discounts, higher staking yields, governance rights, and access to promotions on partner projects.
It’s currently available to buy via a token presale, which has raised $12.3 million so far.
Best Wallet Token’s presale strength signifies real market appeal, and the recent Coinbase incident will only amplify this in the months ahead.
Expert analyst Jacob Bury explored the Coinbase hack and suggested that Best Wallet Token could be a smart investment to capitalize on the current market outlook.
As such, traders seeking the most value for money should not wait to get involved.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not provide financial advice. Cryptocurrencies are highly volatile, and the market can be unpredictable. Always perform thorough research before making any cryptocurrency-related decisions.