Weekly insights and analysis on the latest developments in military technology, strategy, and foreign policy.
On this episode of TWZ: Special Access, Jamie Hunter visited TacAir to learn about their heavily upgraded F-5AT fighters and how they replicate enemy aircraft to keep U.S. fighter aircrews sharp.
Tactical Air Support, better known as TacAir, is a Reno, Nevada-based private ‘red air’ commercial adversary support contractor that aims to efficiently simulate enemy capabilities to better prepare U.S. and allied aircrews for future conflicts. They support all branches in various training and testing events, but they’re most known for the contract they fulfill out of NAS Fallon in Nevada, where Topgun is based and where air wings spin-up for deployments.
TacAir’s fleet is made up of ex-Jordanian and Saudi F-5E/Fs airframes that have been equipped with tailored upgrades to create a “4th generation adversary platform with 3rd generation economy,” as described by the company. The latest configuration includes an AESA radar, datalink, Garmin wide-area display open architecture avionics, Scorpion helmet mounted display, and internal IRST. You can read more about TacAir and their F-5ATs here: https://www.twz.com/category/tac-air
Watch the full video here:
Private F-5 Adversary Jets Taking The Fight To Navy Fighter Pilots
AS a veteran showbiz reporter, I’m used to free- flowing champagne, egomaniacal celebrities and all-round general excess.
So who knew a Caribbean cruise could beat any A-lister party?
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The Sun’s Clemmie Moodie took a Caribbean Cruise aboard the 5,200-guest Arvia as a cruise virginCredit: P&OMake a splash at the on-deck poolCredit: Simon KennedyActivities such a mini-golf are also availableCredit: Simon Kennedy
Drawing back the curtains every morning, before me was a beautiful new backdrop. Different every day, and every day seemingly more stunning. No need for Instagram filters.
Not even Paul Daniels in his prime could have mustered up such magic. Stepping aboard the 5,200-guest Arvia as a cruise virgin, I really did not know what to expect.
Yet absolutely everything on board this P&O Cruises ship — don’t, whatever you do, call it a “big boat” as I did — confounded all expectations.
I had thought, wrongly, I’d be the youngest onboard. How foolish of me.
From singletons enjoying rum-tasting at 11am to older couples, married 55 years and still finding conversational titbits over the lunch table, my gang included a 22-year-old influencer and a 57-year-old rocker in the shape of Blur’s Alex James (who played a stunning sundowner set one evening).
Also on board were more than 2,000 crew. Which goes some way to explaining the pristine levels of both cleanliness and hospitality.
Each cabin is serviced with a personal “butler” who caters for any whim.
With 30 bars and restaurants on board, endless shops, a gym, spin studio, spa, cinema, four pools and an uber-cool jazz club, you could spend a year on board and yet not repeat the same day twice.
Arvia is also utterly vast.
My Garmin watch tells me I average 15,000 steps a day simply from milling around, getting lost and exploring. On the days we moored up, this rocketed to well over 20,000
You’ll never be bored with this level of entertainmentCredit: suppliedHop off the cruise to wander sunsoaked streetsCredit: supplied
The whole mooring bit, naturally, being the very point of a cruise. So after landing in Barbados, we sailed overnight and I awoke in Martinique.
Here, we jumped in a taxi and drove 50 minutes to a Club Med hotel for a day of sunbathing at the picturesque beach club.
Surrounded by turquoise seas and an Insta-worthy backdrop — certainly the influencers among us including ex-Towie star Lydia Bright and MIC’s Ollie Locke were very happy — we enjoyed a rosé-fuelled lunch.
That evening we had dinner at one of the speciality restaurants, Keel and Cow.
The elevated gastro-pub diner may cost a little extra but it is just a little — from £3.50 for a starter of potted chicken and bacon rillette to a melt-in-the-mouth fillet steak for £15.50 that came with chunky chips, onion rings, grilled mushroom and tomato, roasted garlic and an iceberg lettuce wedge with sour cream and bacon crumb — and was well worth the extra cost.
The next morning, I rise early to check the gym. With machines overlooking the gently rolling Caribbean seas, treadmill running, for once, becomes a pleasure, not a pain.
It has everything one might need, plus a full timetable of classes ranging from stretching and Pilates to spin and weights.
As anyone who knows me knows, breakfast is very important to me. I judge places by their fast-breaking offerings. Thankfully, breakfast thrilled.
Clemmie samples some wine onboardCredit: supplied
The Horizon buffet had all the options for a quick brekkie and you could enjoy table service in the main Meridian and Zenith dining rooms.
But it was the 6th Street Diner, an American-themed eatery, that nailed the breakfast brief (think waffles, over-easy eggs, bacon and maple syrup, washed down with endless coffee.)
While there are plenty of included options for dining, it was great to have such a choice if you wanted to spend a little extra. There’s even an extensive room service menu that offers a club sandwich for about £4.
Another joy was sailing around the Caribbean but still only paying in pounds onboard for everything from a beauty must-have in the shops to a drink at the bar.
The biggest jolt of the week, however, came as I went to log on to the wi-fi for the week — £150! Apparently it’s something to do with satellites and lots of other technical jargon, but with my day job kicking off — thank you, Brooklyn Beckham — I had no option but to log in.
Thankfully, P&O offers some great options to buy all-inclusive packages in advance that cost from £49 a day. The Classic includes alcoholic and soft drinks as well as essential wi-fi for browsing and credit towards speciality dining depending on the length of your cruise.
The Deluxe includes a wider range of posh spirits, craft beers and cocktails as well as fast wi-fi for streaming and video calls plus enhanced dining credit.
I’ll know better on my next cruise.
Blur’s Alex James took to the wavesCredit: supplied
Our next port of call was St Kitts and after we sailed in admiring its verdant hills, off I trotted on a catamaran excursion.
What a day. The pinnacle to the most incredible day’s sailing — one accompanied by a banging Nineties soundtrack and copious amounts of champagne — was a spot of snorkelling before a lobster salad lunch.
That evening we had an incredible dinner at Epicurean, the ship’s fine-dining eatery.
After another day at sea, it was time for another highlight: a speedboat to private island White Bay, off the British Virgin Islands – the stuff of Robinson Crusoe dreams. I really did feel like I’d stepped out on to a movie set.
The Sunset bar proved my favourite way to unwind after another busy-busy day of sunbathing, eating, drinking and experiencing all the tropical delights of the Caribbean.
Forget those red carpets — you can give me a blue sea all day long.
GO: Caribbean Cruise
GETTING / SAILING THERE: P&O Cruises has 14-night Caribbean cruises onboard Arvia from £1,649pp. Includes flights from selected UK airports, full-board, children’s clubs and entertainment.
Departing the UK on February 26, 2027, the cruise sails to and from Barbados and calls at Martinique, St Kitts, Tortola, St Maarten, Antigua, St Lucia and Grenada. See pocruises.com.
MANY hotels claim to be big on wellness, but the recently-opened Cotswolds escape Hyll has mastered it.
Here’s everything you need to know.
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Hyll is buried deep in the Cotswolds countryside, near Chipping CampdenCredit: HyllEach of the three lounge areas are kitted out with bookshelvesCredit: Hyll
Where is Hyll?
Buried deep in the Cotswolds countryside, near Chipping Campden and fancy members clubs like Soho Farmhouse, Hyll is undoubtedly as stylish as its plush neighbours – only you won’t need to sell out for an extortionate members fee.
Named after the old English word hill, meaning elevated piece of ground, rural views are pretty spectacular from this retreat’s high perch.
There’s a car park on site or the hotel can arrange transfers from the train station.
What’s it like?
Not just a hotel, Hyll is more of a sanctuary where guests are gently encouraged to switch off – whether that’s with a board game in front of a freshly-stoked fire or with a scenic stroll around the 60 acres of manicured grounds.
Views are just as gorgeous from within the Grade-II listed 14th century manor house thanks to its original stone frame, timber beams and framed artwork that wouldn’t look out of place in a French farmhouse.
What are the rooms like?
The 26 unique bedrooms (some in the main house and some in the courtyard) feel homely yet luxurious with plump feathered cushions, freestanding bathtubs and chic coffee table books.
If the strict colour palette of neutral browns and sandy tones doesn’t soothe you, a guided yoga nidra (a type of specific relaxation yoga) session sure will.
A series of wellness videos have been designed exclusively for hotel guests and are text to your phone ahead of bedtime.
What is there to eat and drink?
Eat in the dining room, living room, outside or wherever you please, thanks to the laid back “mi casa, su casa” ethos.
Dinner relies on local ingredients sourced from nearby farms, mills and distilleries.
Star dishes include Briar Hill Farm hogget served with salsa verde and baklava tart soaked in the hotel’s own honey.
Post dinner, retire to the marshmallow-like sofas next door with a book and signature cocktail – I liked the yuzu and plum sour, both tart and sweet.
Non-drinkers are catered for, too, with a decent selection of no and low cocktails including a sharp No-groni.
Breakfast is a farm-style mix of homemade granola and hot options like full English and scotch woodcock (scrambled eggs on toast, topped with salty anchovies) both on the menu.
Breakfast hampers can also be delivered straight to your bed.
The 26 unique bedrooms feel homely yet luxuriousCredit: HyllGuests can have breakfast in bedCredit: Hyll
What else is there to do?
Small books labelled ‘Do Nothing’ and ‘Do something’ are left on bedside tables with suggestions on how to fully embrace and unwind in the Cotswolds nature.
In-room massages can be booked on request and dogs are welcome in certain bedrooms and throughout living rooms and restaurants in the main house.
The essence of the place, in general, is to do very little.
I’d recommend just kicking back with a book – each of the three lounge areas are kitted out with bookshelves and artsy side tables covered in fiction and non-fictions reads that you can borrow for the duration of your stay.
Thanks to a partnership with Borzoi Books, these are refreshed on a monthly basis.
You can even arrange to take a book home with you, for a fee.
How much are rooms at Hyll?
Rooms cost from £210 per night including breakfast.
Is Hyll family friendly?
Kids are welcome but it’s not the most child-friendly of places.
Cost and additional child beds are available on request, however.
Is there access for guests with disabilities?
Although, staff are always on hand to help, Hyll is not the ideal place for wheelchair users.
Given the historic property is Grade II listed, a lift cannot be installed and therefore bedrooms are accessed via stairs.
Looking for a place to stay? For more hotel inspiration click here.
The restaurant relies on local ingredientsCredit: Hyll
The real perk of this hotel is that guests can save on pricey airport parking by booking onto a four, eight or 15 day deal that includes parking at the hotel, one night’s stay and a private transfer to the airport the following morning.
What are the rooms like?
Clean and relatively modern rooms come in a variety of sizes and bed set ups to suit all manner of groups or travellers, including standard rooms, family rooms and triple rooms.
The standout of my standard king room was the marshmallow-like pillows that made for an ultra comfortable snooze ahead of an early morning trip.
What is there to eat and drink?
Unless you want to hitch a ride into Crawley, eating at the hotel is your only option due to its isolated location.
Luckily, the American-style grub here is decent – and there’s a cracking cocktail menu that will help you kick off your holiday in proper style.
Loaded burgers make up a large portion of the food menu, but there are salads, pasta dishes, curries and wings too.
Margarita lovers should wash their dinner down with a Big Bite, one of the hotel’s signature cocktails.
A spicy twist on the classic margarita, this one will blow your socks off.
If you have time for brekkie, there is a good selection of hot and cold options.
Everyone here was accommodating and, above all, cheery, gearing visitors up for their holiday.
Even at 4am, the concierge was whipping up coffees with a smile for me and fellow guests ahead of our weary-eyed taxi rides.
How much is the hotel?
Rooms cost from £89 per night. Park and fly packages vary.
Is the Sandman Signature London Gatwick family friendly?
Extremely. Rooms come in lost of convenient sizes including four-person family rooms, with a double, single and trundle bed.
There’s also triple rooms like double and single beds.
Is there access for guests with disabilities?
Yes. There’s a lift up to bedrooms and accessible rooms come with extra space for wheelchair users, lowered features, wet rooms with pullable cords and a lot of well-thought out facilities.
Even at 4am, the concierge was whipping up coffees with a smileCredit: Sandman signatureThe hotel is basic, clean and modernCredit: Sandman signature
If you’re looking for staycation inspiration, this Dorset holiday park is packed with family-friendly facilities. Even in high season, there’s no need to fight for space on the beach as it has its own private stretch.
The holiday park is just steps from a private beach(Image: Hoseasons)
An independently owned holiday park could be the perfect spot for an Easter break or May half-term staycation thanks to its facilities that include a private beach.
Set on Dorset’s spectacular Jurassic Coast, Freshwater Beach Holiday Park has rolling green hills on one side and a vast, unspoilt beach on the other. It sits on a flat spot with direct access to its own private beach with fine shingle that gives it a golden hue. Follow the beach north, and you’ll reach West Bay Cliffs, while to the south, the River Bride crosses the beach as it flows out to sea.
Just steps from the sand are some of the park’s comfortable caravans, and you can pick from luxury mobile homes that have uninterrupted sea views, or simple, modern options in the heart of the park.
If you prefer to bring your own tent, motorhome, or campervan, then there are grass and hard-standing pitches available. Facilities include electricity, water, showers, and WiFi, so you have everything you need.
At the heart of the park is the Jurassic Fun Centre, where guests can enjoy heated indoor and outdoor pools with splash parks and lots of fun features. There’s also a 10-pin bowling alley, restaurant, and bar, so there’s plenty to enjoy right on-site.
A short walk away is the charming Dorset village of Burton Bradstock, where you’ll find a couple of traditional pubs and lots of pretty stone cottages. There’s also West Bay, just a few minutes’ drive away, a small harbour town on the mouth of the River Brit, which is especially popular in the summer months. It has a traditional seaside feel, with fish and chip shops, cosy cafés, and a beach cove that has fine shingle and seas calm enough for swimming in the right conditions.
The South West Coastal Path runs close to the park, meaning there’s lots of incredible coastal scenery right on Freshwater’s doorstep. The area is also full of interesting National Trust sites such as Coney’s Castle, ancient hillforts surrounded by green hills and unspoilt countryside, and Golden Cap, a hilly coastal walk that rewards walkers with views across Lyme Bay to Dartmoor on clear days.
Mapperton House, Gardens & Wildlands are a must-visit for history buffs and lovers of nature. This Jacobean manor opens its doors on selected dates, so you can tour its ornate rooms. Its formal gardens include an arboretum and orangery, while its wildlands cover over 1,000 acres, bursting with wildflowers, birds, and deer.
Camping and touring pitches at Freshwater Beach Holiday Park start at £34 a night and hardstanding pitches from £40 a night. Holiday homes start from £210 for three nights based on two adults sharing. Find out more and book online via Freshwater Beach’s official website.
Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com
TOPEKA, Kan. — A Kansas town known for its prisons is allowing a shuttered private prison to reopen and house immigrants detained for living in the U.S. illegally after a nearly yearlong legal fight amid a massive national push for new detention centers.
The City Commission in Leavenworth on Tuesday approved a permit to private prison operator CoreCivic. Members voted 4 to 1 to approve a three-year permit with conditions that set minimum staffing levels, ban the housing of minors and provide for a city oversight committee.
“If they don’t follow those guidelines, we can pull the permit,” Mayor Nancy Bauder said before the vote.
The 1,104-bed Midwest Regional Reception Center is 10 miles west of the Kansas City International Airport. CoreCivic, one of the nation’s largest private prison operators, said the center will generate $60 million annually once it’s fully open.
Leavenworth, Kan., sued CoreCivic after it tried to reopen the shuttered prison without city officials signing off on the deal.
The legal battle played out in state and federal courts, with the Department of Justice siding with CoreCivic in legal filings. The department argued that the city was engaged in an “aggressive and unlawful effort” to “interfere with federal immigration enforcement.”
It appears to be the only such legal battle nationally to delay a private prison from opening amid President Trump’s push for mass deportations. The city argued that requiring a permit would prevent future problems, while CoreCivic maintained that it didn’t need a permit and the process would take too long.
Leavenworth was an unlikely foe because the GOP-leaning city’s name alone evokes a shorthand for serving hard time. Prisons employ hundreds of workers locally at two military facilities, the nation’s first federal penitentiary, a Kansas correctional facility and a county jail, all within six miles of City Hall.
CoreCivic stopped housing pretrial detainees for the U.S. Marshals Service in its Leavenworth facility in 2021 after then-President Joe Biden called on the Justice Department to curb the use of private prisons. The American Civil Liberties Union and federal public defenders said inmates’ rights had been violated and there were stabbings, suicides and even one homicide.
The city’s lawsuit described detainees locked in showers as punishment and accused CoreCivic of impeding city police force investigations of sexual assaults and other violent crimes.
Almost four dozen people spoke in opposition to the permit before the commission’s vote. Bauder admonished the crowd several times for being too noisy, and police removed a protester who yelled vulgar comments.
“We, we the people of Leavenworth, are not fooled and we don’t care about their money,” David Benitez, a city resident, told the commission.
Some backers of the permit cited the potential boost to the local economy. Two CoreCivic employees argued for approval, and one of them, Charles Johnson, of Kansas City, Kan., said his job gave him purpose and allowed his family to get off of state assistance.
“The people I work alongside are caring, professional and committed to doing things the right way,” he said, his comments drawing boos from critics outside the commission’s meeting room.
City Commissioner Holly Pittman said because the city “stood firm,” it could negotiate conditions on the permit. She said denying it would risk a potentially expensive lawsuit.
“I will not gamble the financial stability of this city,” she said before voting yes. “Let me be clear: Approval does not mean endorsement.”
Hollingsworth and Hanna write for the Associated Press. Hollingsworth reported from Mission, Kan.
Vietnam’s economy is undergoing a remarkable transformation, marked by rapid growth and the recent upgrade to “secondary emerging market” status by FTSE Russell. This shift is creating a new class of affluent and high-net-worth individuals, fueling unprecedented demand for sophisticated wealth management. At the forefront of this burgeoning industry is Techcombank, whose private banking arm, Techcombank Private, was recently named Best Private Bank in Vietnam for 2026 by Global Finance.
The award is more than a simple recognition; it’s a validation of a strategy designed for a new era of Vietnamese wealth. As international investors turn their attention to Vietnam, attracted by its dynamic market and stable growth, the country’s own entrepreneurs and established families are seeking financial partners who can navigate both local complexities and global opportunities. This is where the private banking landscape is being redrawn.
A Rapidly Maturing Wealth Management Landscape
Vietnam’s private banking industry is coming into its own as one of the most sophisticated and competitive markets in the region. Rapid wealth accumulation, driven by entrepreneurial success and significant generational wealth transfer, is fueling the sector’s evolution. Today’s affluent clients demand far more than basic investment services—they expect tailored strategies, global connectivity, and a partner who can support their ambitions at every stage.
“We are witnessing a pivotal moment in Vietnam’s economic story. Our clients are seeking a strategic partner who understands their journey. They are innovative founders and family leaders who require holistic solutions that cover wealth creation, preservation and legacy planning.”
Nguyen Van Linh, Deputy Chief Retail Banking Group at Techcombank Private.
This maturing market is shaped by a new generation of high-net-worth individuals who value seamless digital experiences paired with the kind of trusted, long-term relationships private banking is known for.
“The key is to combine global best practices with a deep understanding of the local context,” Van Linh explains. “Our clients’ ambitions are not confined by borders. Whether it’s planning for their children’s education overseas, exploring international investment opportunities or structuring their business for global expansion, we must provide world-class expertise right here in Vietnam.”
A Model Built on Expertise and Ecosystem
Techcombank Private’s leadership is underscored by its impressive market position, managing over VND 428 trillion in Assets Under Management and holding more than 50% market share in the affluent customer segment.
These numbers reflect a carefully constructed service model. At its core is the dedicated Private Client Relationship Manager (PCRM), an advisor trained to international standards who provides a single point of contact for a client’s diverse financial needs. Supported by a central Chief Investment Office (CIO) team, PCRMs deliver bespoke financial strategies, from intricate estate planning to dynamic portfolio management.
“Our advisory model is built on a foundation of trust and intellectual rigor,” says Van Linh. “We don’t just offer products—we co-create solutions. This involves a deep dive into a client’s personal and business aspirations to build a financial roadmap that is both resilient and aligned with their long-term vision.”
Clients gain access to a diverse portfolio of exclusive investment opportunities, including sophisticated products like ETFs, synthetic iTracker ETFs and personalized structured products. Crucially, they also benefit from privileged access to Techcombank’s integrated ecosystem. This network includes advisory and brokerage from TechcomSecurities, specialized protection solutions from Techcom Life Insurance, and unique access to premium real estate and corporate bond offerings from Vietnam’s leading developers and corporations.
Integrating Wealth and Lifestyle
A defining feature of modern private banking in Asia is the fusion of financial management with curated lifestyle experiences. Affluent clients today see wealth not just as a financial metric but as an enabler of a fulfilling life.
Techcombank Private has embedded this understanding into its service by creating a “Red Carpet Banking Experience.” This goes beyond preferential rates to offer tangible value in clients’ daily lives. The recently launched Techcombank Private lounges at Hanoi’s Noi Bai and Ho Chi Minh City’s Tan Son Nhat airports are a prime example—providing serene, exclusive spaces for clients on the move.
“We believe that true value is created when we can enhance our clients’ lives beyond their finances,” notes Van Linh. “Our 24/7 Global Concierge service, our exclusive cultural events, like the ‘Carmen’ opera, and our partnerships with luxury brands are all designed to give back our clients’ most valuable asset: their time.”
This philosophy extends to the Private Rewards Program, which turns everyday transactions into opportunities. Points can be redeemed for experiences in dining, travel and wellness. The program also features a unique family-sharing component, allowing family members to pool points for shared experiences, strengthening familial bonds and financial engagement across generations.
Nurturing the Next Generation
As Vietnam navigates its path to becoming a high-income nation, the concept of legacy is increasingly important. Recognizing this, Techcombank has committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders. The “Techcombank Education for Next Generation” program, developed in partnership with VinUni University, is a pioneering initiative that provides financial literacy training for the children of private clients.
“Building legacy is a multi-generational endeavor,” Van Linh emphasizes. “By equipping our clients’ children with financial knowledge and a sense of stewardship, we are protecting wealth and helping to ensure it grows and creates a positive impact for decades to come. This is our ultimate commitment—to be a trusted partner through every stage of our clients’ success story.”
In a rapidly evolving market, Techcombank has established a clear vision for the future of private banking in Vietnam—one that is deeply personal, digitally empowered, and holistically integrated into the lives and legacies of the nation’s most successful individuals.
A travel writer explores Aspen and Snowmass in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, discovering stunning Maroon Bells views, cowboy culture, rodeos and summer adventures in America’s most affluent mountain resort
(Image: Chris Granet)
The guide’s instructions were crystal clear: “Keep both hands on the handlebars. Don’t look around. Don’t take photos.”
Yet I simply couldn’t resist. The scenery was far too stunning and I found myself compelled to capture videos of the breathtaking alpine vista surrounding us whilst coasting down from the Maroon Bells, the twin peaks situated behind the twin towns of Aspen and Snowmass, their snow-covered summits still clinging to winter’s final traces despite it being late June.
This stretch of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains is more renowned for its skiing and cold-weather pursuits, yet during summer it transforms into a paradise for those keen to discover the terrain no longer concealed beneath snow.
I’d travelled in from Denver, departing the state capital bathed in evening sunlight as we glided over the snow-dusted peaks. Lines of private aircraft filled the tarmac at tiny Aspen airport.
I’d never witnessed so many. Then again, this ranks among the wealthiest regions in the US, with as many as 125 billionaires possessing homes here, reports the Express.
Tourists appear to be predominantly wealthy or “aspirational”. Imagine the south of France or Dubai, but with ranch culture.
Our accommodation was the stylish W, positioned in Aspen’s heart and near the cable car terminal. It proved as contemporary and fashionable as the other W properties I’ve experienced, though more compact in size – less ostentatious, more intimate.
After refreshing ourselves, I met my tour party on the rooftop terrace where we sipped cocktails as the sun descended with golden beams caressing Mount Aspen. Drinks finished, we headed off for dinner through Aspen’s charming, tree-lined streets, which reveal little evidence of its rough-and-ready heritage as a silver mining settlement.
Following the collapse of the silver boom, Aspen’s prosperity plummeted and only bounced back after being transformed into a ski resort in the mid-20th century. I realised I was struggling slightly to walk.
The booze? No, the 8,000ft elevation (the thin mountain air would leave me breathless for the following few days).
The evocative Steakhouse No. 316 was softly illuminated with stylish Old West-inspired décor. My fillet steak arrived cooked to medium-rare perfection and accompanied by a zesty margarita.
Annoying jetlag brought the evening to an early close, wiping me out by 11pm, then jolting me awake at 3.30am. At least it guaranteed I was first down for breakfast.
I sampled elk sausage and eggs – my initial encounter with the magnificent creatures that continue to inhabit the area – robust, smoky, and as delicious as they are striking. Poor elk.
The morning’s programme featured e-biking up the valley through attractive wetlands (the power-assisted pedalling a blessing) and a stop at the trendy Aspen Art Museum, with its six galleries of contemporary art.
We had lunch at the museum’s rooftop restaurant. Its cuisine may have been uninspiring, but the panorama of Mount Aspen was as stunning as the staircase leading up there.
Every local we encountered that day was incredibly welcoming, stepping aside for us with beaming smiles or cheerful greetings. Despite Aspen’s prestigious reputation, it was refreshingly free from the snobbery you might anticipate in comparable British or European ski resorts.
After lunch, we browsed the souvenir shops. The standout was Kemo Sabe, a Western-themed boutique selling bespoke cowboy gear. It’s every bit as pricey as it is stylish – hats typically cost $1,000. I spotted a basic leather hatband priced at $8,776.
Surely nobody’s quite that ambitious?
Maintaining the Western atmosphere, dinner was at Hotel Jerome, an impressive structure built in the 19th century to rival London’s Savoy. Its bars and restaurants radiated a gentler Western appeal, though the seven-course tasting menu proved disappointing.
Nevertheless, the cocktails were superb and the heritage tangible.
The magnificence continued as we strolled to the nearby Wheeler Opera House for an Emmylou Harris performance. I’d never encountered her work, and the 77-year-old, 14 Grammy-winning folk artist exposed my ignorance as her captivating voice echoed throughout the elegant Victorian-era venue.
Following another night of jet-lag-shortened sleep, I was grateful we caught a cable car to Mount Aspen’s peak for an outdoor yoga session where I loosened my weary muscles whilst overlooking the mountains.
Lunch was back down at the Ajax Tavern beside the cable-car station. Its signature truffle fries were superb, but the signature double beef burgers were rather mediocre.
That sunny evening we travelled onwards to Snowmass, 15 minutes down the valley, pausing at the rodeo. But this wasn’t just any rodeo, this was the Snowmass Rodeo – packed with well-Cuban-heeled cowboys and girls sporting Kemo Sabe hats and designer sunglasses.
Nevertheless, it felt pleasantly down-to-earth, with cheerful families and grins everywhere. Events ranged from children’s sheep-riding (yes, really), bullock lassoing and barrel-racing, building up to bull-riding.
Snowmass Village itself possesses a distinctly different atmosphere from Aspen. Here, the resort has been constructed around the skiing – rather than the other way round – with an extensive network of trails and pistes spreading up the enormous Snowmass Mountain.
During summer, the tree-covered slopes become a mountain biker’s dream, boasting over 50 miles of trails. As we ascended via gondola up the Elk Camp side of the mountain, we observed as they hurtled down, tearing up trails.
Entertaining, but we found our excitement from the Breathtaker Alpine Coaster, a roller coaster nestled in the forest where you race downhill in toboggans, my bum squeaking as noisily as the brakes.
From the cable-car terminal, there’s a chairlift ascending to the summit of Elk Camp. Regrettably, it was chilly and wet up there and the views of the Maroon Bells hidden by cloud.
A quick stop for pizza energised us for the descent into Aspen’s tree woods above the village. The afternoon sun illuminated their silver bark and created lengthy shadows.
Combined with the birdsong and post-rain scents, it felt enchanting. Snowmass’s nightlife is considerably more low-key than that of Aspen.
We ate at Aurum, an upscale Mediterranean/American fusion eatery – more outstanding steak and cocktails – and also at Kenichi, a Japanese restaurant serving not only the finest food of the entire trip, but the best Japanese cuisine I’ve ever experienced.
Zane’s and The Tavern are well-loved local watering holes – the former a relaxed sports bar, the latter buzzing with boisterous young punters drowning out the gravelly old country singer.
Our last morning kicked off with that bike ride down from Maroon Bells. The sight of the twin peaks looming majestically over the unspoilt Maroon Lake was nothing short of spectacular.
And, thankfully, the journey back to Aspen was downhill the entire way. After such a stunning trip, in every sense of the word, it was a thoroughly fitting send-off.
Nguyen The Anh, Director of Private & Priority Banking at Techcombank, spoke with Global Finance about the rapid maturation of Vietnam’s wealth management market and the growing importance of preparing next-generation clients and families for long-term succession planning.
Techcombank was named Best Private Bank in Vietnam 2026 by Global Finance, with the award presented at a ceremony held at Claridge’s in London, bringing together leaders from across the global private banking industry.
The recognition reflects Techcombank’s expanding wealth platform and its commitment to supporting Vietnamese entrepreneurs and families as they navigate intergenerational wealth creation, preservation, and transition.
Feb. 28 (UPI) — Authorities arrested singer Cher’s son, Elijah Allman, for allegedly trespassing and causing a disturbance at a New Hampshire private school, Concord police said.
Known professionally as P. Exeter Blue I, the lead singer of the group Deadsy, he was arrested around 6 p.m. Friday at St. Paul’s School. WMUR-TV in Concord reported that police received information that he was causing a disturbance in the elite prep school’s dining hall.
The Concord Police Department confirmed the arrest to People magazine.
Elijah Allman, 49, has no known connection to the school.
He faces multiple charges, including two counts of simple assault, criminal trespass, criminal threatening and disorderly conduct.
Elijah Allman was detained at Merrimack County Jail and released on personal recognizance, which means no bail was required.
Elijah Allman is the son of Cher and the late Gregg Allman of the Allman Brothers Band. Cher did not immediately respond to a request for comment by People.
Cher (R) caresses her former husband and singing partner, Sonny Bonno in this undated photo. UPI File Photo | License Photo
Unity Holidays in Brean has been undergoing £10.2million expansion and refurbishmentCredit: Unity HolidaysIt’s recently updated it’s new pub, sports bar and pavilionCredit: Unity Holidays
In time for the summer holidays, will be a new lido surrounded by private cabanas and outdoor dining area.
The existing flumes and water rides will remain, and the outdoor pool is expected to open in July 2026.
Other plans included in the development are a trampoline park, bandstand, boardwalk, landscaped gardens and a dog agility area.
There will also be an outdoor activity centre where guests can have a go at archery, axe throwing and rifle shooting.
Unity Beach Resort Director Jonny Green said: “These are exciting times for our owners, our holidaymakers and the local community.
“Our improved pool facilities will help us sustain and grow participation in swimming lessons and recreational activity — not only for guests staying on the park, but also for the wider community across Somerset.”
The new outdoor facilities are part of the huge refurbishment of the site that has been underway throughout the winter months.
The site has been upgrading its soft play, changing rooms, the Wave Café and gym.
Other improvements have been to the 25-metre indoor pool and the addition of poolside showers.
A new indoor Splash Pad will replace the baby pool so that children of different ages can swim and play in the same space.
The unisex changing rooms have been upgraded with larger family cubicles – with space for up to four.
For accessibility, a new lift and pool hoist have been installed, as well as a refreshed accessible changing area.
The Wave Café has also been refurbished and will continue to serve meals throughout the day.
Visitors can enjoy sweet treats like cookies and donuts to breakfast options, sandwiches and paninis.
The site recently renovated its Wonky Donkey cafeCredit: unity holidays
At Unity Play, children can explore different soft play zones; Ocean World for under-4s, the main soft play area for ages 4 to 11, and Ninja Warrior zone for ages 7 to 11.
There is also a new reception area with a dedicated buggy park for families.
The refurbished indoor facilities are due to reopen shortly.
Previously, the site underwent a £15million upgrade with a new Wonky Donkey pub and restaurant, with a new pavilion, sports bar and arcade.
The Wonky Donkey serves up traditional pub food like mac n’ cheese and scampi and chips.
Inside the Pavilion Theatre, there’s plenty of family entertainment and shows as well as silent discos and movie sing-along challenges.
As well as the 2025 additions, the park is home to a theme park with 40 rides and attractions from rollercoasters to dodgems and a ghost train.
“Our eight-man Platinum lodge at Unity Beach in Somerset has a hot tub — and it comes complete with undisturbed views of Brean’s windswept coastline and a clear sky at night.
“Everything inside is sleek and stylish, with a statement electric fireplace in the centre and Scandi-style wooden furniture that makes the place look more like a fancy prize draw house than a holiday park lodge.
“I was staying there with my partner Bianca and two little ones, Frank, six, and Pearl, four. The lodges are really close to most of the activities and restaurants, too.
“These include the new Wonky Donkey, which serves brekkie and pub grub such as scampi, lasagne and burgers, and the Sports Cafe, where kids can play arcade favourites and cutting-edge VR games in between bites of pizza, while adults watch live sport on the large screens.
“There’s also the revamped Pavilion Theatre, where guests can tuck into wings, loaded fries and kid-sized lighter bites all while watching live game shows and tribute acts.
“The pre-booked 90-minute pool sessions were just enough for our two, although bigger kids, who can go on all the flumes, might want to stay longer.
“Despite tearing around the pool for an hour and a half, Frank and Pearl couldn’t wait to go straight to Brean Play indoor soft play afterwards.
“If one thing’s guaranteed to tire them out, it’s soft play. The area includes the Ninja Zone, with a challenging obstacle course for older kids, and a state-of-the-art ball court with an interactive screen that lets kids play all manner of games.”
