quiet

On the lamp-lit steps of a sombre gothic church, a young woman stands before a microphone. Beside her, a man plucks a slow melody from his guitar. Arrayed on chairs and cobblestones in front of them, a large crowd sits in an expectant silence. From a nearby balcony, laundry sways in the sultry Calabrian breeze.

The guitar quickens, and the woman issues a string of tremulous notes with all the solemnity of a muezzin. She clutches a hand drum, beating out a rhythm that draws the crowd to its feet. As people surge forward, stamping and whirling around the square, the singing intensifies and the drum’s relentless thud deepens. The festival of Sustarìa has begun.

“Sustarìa is a word in the dialect of Lago,” says Cristina Muto, who co-founded the festival in summer 2020. “It is a creative restlessness, which doesn’t let you sit still.” We’re speaking at a drinks party the evening before the annual event, on a terrace overlooking Lago’s clay-tiled roofs, when her brother Daniele appears with a jug of local wine in hand. “Welcome to Lagos Angeles, Calabrifornia,” he winks, pouring me a cup.

Lago is a hilltop village in the province of Cosenza, overlooking the Mediterranean. It’s surrounded by sprawling olive groves and small plots where families cultivate figs, chestnuts and local grains. Cristina and Daniele were born and raised in this grey-stoned hamlet, a medieval outpost of the Kingdom of the Lombards. Although their pride in Lago is palpable, few of the Laghitani I meet live here all year round. Like many young people from southern Italy, they have left in search of opportunities that are scarce in Calabria.

It’s against this backdrop that Cristina co-founded Sustarìa. “The trend is longstanding and severe,” she tells me, “but people still live here, and there are communities that thrive despite the problems. If more people stay or return, things will get better.” By spotlighting the allure of the region’s heritage, she hopes to play a part in this.

With agriculture historically shaping Calabria’s economy and its inhabitants’ daily lives, many traditions have agrarian roots. The dance that erupted on the festival’s first night was the tarantella. It features distinctive footwork, with dancers kicking their heels rapidly. “It’s a dance of the field workers,” Cristina says. “Some say it began as a way to sweat out venom from spider bites during harvests; others say tired workers in need of a creative outlet danced slowly and just with their feet, and over time the pace and range of movement increased.”

The vocals on display that night told of another aspect of the region’s history: its frequent colonisation. Calabria was variously conquered by Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Normans, Arabs, Lombards and Bourbons. The folk songs we heard were replete with Greek scales and Arabic cadences, a melting pot of Mediterranean timbres.

After the concert, the crowd migrated to a field by a small waterfall on the outskirts of Lago for dinner featuring regional dishes: rosamarina (the pescatarian version of nduja, known as “Calabrian caviar” made from tiny fish); fried courgette flowers; cipolla rossa di Tropea (red onions from the popular beachtown of Tropea); and pecorino crotonese, a sheep’s cheese from the Crotone province.

Over dinner I spoke with two other festival organisers, Claudia and her husband Alberto. Claudia, a Lago native, returned permanently, after a career in aerospace engineering, to run the B&B Agriturismo Cupiglione with Alberto. Nestled in woodland a few kilometres from Lago, Cupiglione was founded 25 years ago by Claudia’s parents as a restaurant with guest rooms. After closing during the pandemic, it was renovated and reopened in 2023 as a B&B with seven rooms for up to 18 guests (doubles from €40). The change in direction paid off, and Cupiglione has since welcomed hundreds of visitors to the area, evenly split between Italian and international travellers.

During my stay, I’m lodging in a house on the edge of Lago, thanks to the Sustarìa team. Hospitality runs deep during the festival; organisers open up their homes and those of their relatives to anyone who enquires through social media. Other options abound during the festival and year-round, including B&Bs such as Cupiglione and A Casa di Ely (doubles from €60), a short walk from where I stayed.

The following afternoon, I return to the field before aperitivi, where I meet up with Cristina, who explains the growth of her initiative: “Initially, it was just locals who came to Sustarìa, but then people from other parts of Italy and even other countries started coming. Every year it grows.” This year, there are nearly 600 people in attendance.

Eric, a Londoner studying in Zurich, is one such international guest. Eric also attended Felici & Conflenti, a festival in late July hosted by friends of the Sustarìa team, which focuses on preserving and reviving the region’s ancient music. It has held 11 editions over as many years, each one featuring a winter and summer instalment, to which more people flock each year. It takes place in Conflenti, a small inland village nestled at the foot of the Reventino mountain, at the confluence of two small rivers (hence its name).

“Thanks to their work and research, instruments that were becoming extinct, like the zampogna [Italian bagpipe], are finding new life,” Cristina says.

The three of us sit chatting over plates of crisp taralli (wheat crackers) as twilight fades, and a reedy piping starts up from across the field. I stroll over, and catch sight of someone playing the zampogna, which looks like a set of bagpipes improvised from foraged materials, and is truly ancient – it counts the Roman emperor Nero among its historical admirers.

The next morning, we head to the hilltop town of Fiumefreddo Bruzio, a short drive from Lago and officially recognised as one of “Italy’s most beautiful villages”. Clinging to the western slopes of the Apennines, this medieval village offers panoramic views of the swelling coastline, which traces the Tyrrhenian Sea. Its narrow, meandering streets are lined with squat houses made of the local grey stone, quarried from the surrounding mountains. We wander around Il castello della Valle, a sprawling 13th-century Norman castle partly destroyed by Napoleonic troops, but retaining a splendid portale Rinascimentale – or Renaissance gate – still in excellent condition.

At Palazzo Rossi, on the edge of town, we take a seat at a cafe and sip local craft beer as we admire the view of the active volcano Mount Stromboli, across the water.

“You should see it in the winter,” Cristina says. “The air is cooler, so it becomes even clearer. Everything here is completely different in the winter, but most people don’t see it as visitors come mainly in the summer,” she adds with a note of regret.

The sun starts to sink into the horizon. In the square, a band starts setting up for an evening gig. A waiter brings over a plate of bread and olives to our table, on the house. “Things are quieter but not empty. There are almost as many events as in summer. And you get to see how the locals live during the rest of the year.” Cristina tears off a piece of bread. “And, of course, the hospitality never changes – people are always welcomed with open arms.”

Sustarìa will return to Lago for its sixth instalment on 1-3 August 2026. There is a winter edition of Felici & Conflenti in Calabria on 27-29 December 2025; its next summer instalment is in July 2026

WHEN Corfe Castle was besieged during the English Civil War, little else surrounded it bar rolling countryside and a narrow river below.

Today the rocky ruins of the 11th century fortress, perched high on a hill, watch over a jumble of wonky brick buildings housing antique stores crammed with dainty ornaments and cafes selling cakes piled high with whipped cream.

With such a chocolate-box look to it, I’m not surprised that this teeny Dorset gem, just a 25-minute drive south of Poole, is so frequently-named the prettiest village in the UK.

Autumn is a spectacular time to visit Corfe Castle village. In the coming months, the ivy that clings to the thatched cottages will have turned a fiery shade of red and the beginnings of the wintry chill can be soothed with a pint in front of a roaring log burner at the local pub.

Aptly named after the old fortress itself, this village is one of the many highlights of a post-summer visit to this area.

I return to this neck of the woods every autumn, in part because of the unspoilt beaches, which look just as beautiful in blustery season as they do in pure sunshine, and also for the cliff-top hiking trails that give way to jaw-dropping views over the rolling ocean.

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Secluded English cottage where your garden is the BEACH that ‘doesn’t look real’

From the top of the South West Coast Path with nothing but ocean on the horizon, it can feel like you’re standing at the very edge of earth.

This time I am staying at a Dorset Hideaways property, the rather grand Grove Lodge in Osmington, close to Ringstead Bay.

Sleeping up to 11, this holiday home is completely geared up for large groups and families, with five contemporary country-style bedrooms.

As well as a spacious sitting room with a cosy fireplace, there’s a smart country kitchen, dining room, snug and a small annex, which comes with its own double bed and a mini kitchenette.

The standout feature of the property, however, has to be its cracking location, less than a 20-minute drive from family-friendly Weymouth beach and half an hour from Corfe Castle.

In summertime, Weymouth comes alive with holidaymakers chomping on candy floss, pushing pennies through the arcade’s slot machines and settling on the sands for a Punch and Judy puppet show.

But some may say it’s even better in autumn when beaches are empty and dogs almost outnumber humans, splashing about in the frothing waves (pooches are banned from the main section of the beach in summer months).

Staggering views

Those visiting without kids, on the other hand, should head to Lulworth Cove, just a 20-minute drive in the opposite direction from Grove Lodge, where the deep blue sea is framed by a horseshoe of pebbles.

The walk from here to the famous Durdle Door — named after a natural limestone arch protruding from the ocean — is a popular one, mainly because of the staggering views.

Just come prepared for a steep climb, and make sure you’re well-fuelled for it. In my opinion, there’s no better way to do that than with a top-notch Sunday roast.

One of the best portions of fish and chips you’ll ever eat will set you back £20, while a fresh crab brioche roll served with chips costs £16

Head to the nearby Weld Arms, where plates of pillowy Yorkshire puddings accompany slices of rare roast beef doused in meaty gravy. Or for a lighter bite, the Boat Shed Cafe, right on Lulworth Cove, dishes up fish finger sandwiches, jacket spuds and home-made soups, all for around a tenner.

If you’re after something really special, nothing beats The Anchor Inn in Seatown, which sits at the edge of a relatively isolated pebble beach, further west of Lulworth.

Fresh and local is the order of the day here and the fish-focused menu is one that keeps foodies coming back. I devoured a big bowl of bouillabaisse (French fish stew) which was packed with prawns the size of my fists and flaky salmon, served with a hunk of sourdough.

One of the best portions of fish and chips you’ll ever eat will set you back £20, while a fresh crab brioche roll served with chips costs £16.

And for dessert? Tea and cake is best consumed in Corfe Castle. The cafe serves generous wedges of raspberry cake and caramel shortbread coated in a thick layer of chocolate.

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This is the place to pick up holiday souvenirs, too. Trinkets are aplenty in the little shops that line the main street, from home-made soaps to coffee table books, detailing the best UK surfing spots, many of which are in the surrounding areas.

Well . . .  when in Rome.

FOR quiet medinas, pretty beaches and winter highs of 20C, this African capital is set to be a popular spot next year.

National Geographic named the destination one of its best place to visit in 2026 – and luckily for Brits, it’s just three hours away from the UK.

The publication added the capital of Morocco to its must-visit spots for next year, calling it the country’s “relaxed Atlantic-coast capital”.

The city is much lesser-known than the likes of Marrakech, Tangier, Agadir and Essaouira.

But it still has all the charm of the other spots, just much quieter, so you can stroll around the traditional medina souks without it being so busy.

When it comes to the top things to do, one is visiting Kasbah des Oudaias – a fortress looking over the Atlantic Ocean and Bouregreg River.

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When you visit, you’ll find winding blue-and-white painted streets, the historic Kasbah Mosque, and the Oudaias Museum, which is inside a former royal pavilion.

There’s also the Hassan Tower, which dates back to the 12th century and is a symbol of the city.

It’s not all history, there’s modern architecture too, like the Mohammed VI Tower, which is a 250-meter-tall skyscraper in Salé, Morocco, near Rabat, and opened in 2023.

It is the tallest building in Morocco and the third tallest in Africa.

As for affordability, you’ll be happy in Rabat, overnight stays can start from as little as £17 per person.

Food and drink is affordable too, with an inexpensive meal costing £3.26 and dinners at a mid-range restaurant starting from around £16 per person.

Draft beers cost roughly £3.25, with soft drinks like orange juice coming in at 80p.

One writer visited Rabat who said: “Walking through the monumental kasbah gate, called Bab Oudaia, is like stepping back in time.

“Rather than maze-like alleyways, there is a tranquil labyrinth of wide lanes, with white houses and blue, grated windows that are lit up by pretty vines of purple and pink flowers.”

She added: “Pick up a strong black coffee — Turkish style, I’m told — and an almond pastry at the cooling Udayas botanical gardens is the perfect fuel before a venture into the National Finery Museum.

“Extravagant bejewelled crowns, breast chains, rings and belts once worn by young women, perhaps on their wedding day, sit on faceless models.”

In fact if you want to visit Rabat this month, you can get flights for as little as £17 with Ryanair who fly directly.

From the UK, you can be in the city in three hours and 20 minutes.

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Head of Sun Travel Lisa Minot visited another destination in Morocco…

Lisa Minot, Head of Sun Travel, filled us in on her recent trip to Marrakesh. She said: “I’ve just returned from a wonderful long weekend in Marrakech and the city is as exciting as ever.

“We were sunbathing on the roof of our riad in the Medina in glorious 22 degree temperatures – and I loved the amazing desert landscapes just 40 minutes from the hustle and bustle of the souks.

“Tourism is booming in the city and while the streets are as colourful and chaotic as ever, the influx of visitors has brought some gorgeous new bars, restaurants and stunning hotels.”

She added: “It pays to do your research and book restaurants and tours in advance though as even in February and the start of Ramadan, the souks were teeming and lots of places were fully booked.

“We did a three-hour food tour of the Medina with Get Your Guide and while stuffing ourselves on some fantastic street food I probably would never have had the courage to try on my own, our guide revealed the secrets of the city and its fascinating past.”

For more holidays, check out these five lesser-visited coastal resorts that are crowd-free alternatives for 2026… with VERY cheap hotels and flights.

Plus, the peaceful African city right by the sea that feels ‘more like Europe’ – but tourists always miss it.

The pretty harbour town stuns throughout the year, but autumn could be the perfect season for a relaxed visit

Coastal lovers know the perfect spot for anyone seeking a quiet escape with peaceful walks and splendid views. For anyone who finds themselves near Cornwall, Fowey could offer an ideal autumn day out or staycation.

The pretty harbour town attracts visitors year-round, but there’s lots to charm autumn visitors, who might like to take in the atmospheric cobbled streets and less-crowded coastal walks with a hot chocolate in hand. Ruby’s Ice Cream, which offers ice cream shops in Cornwall, praised Fowey as an autumn destination in a recent social media video.

Taking to TikTok, @rubysicecreamshop shared a post titled: “7 reasons you should visit Fowey this Autumn.” The list read:

1. The artisanal shops and cafes2. The dining3. The ferry across to Polruan4. The hot chocolates5. The quiet coastal walks6. The bakeries7. The ice cream

Visit Cornwall describes Fowey as “perfect for exploring.” The tourism board’s website says: “Perched on the banks of a deep river, Fowey is a picturesque town overflowing with history.

“Dating back to medieval times, its narrow cobbled streets are now lined with Victorian and Edwardian buildings which cascade towards the water’s edge.

“Fowey’s natural deep-water harbour and sheltered waters established it as an important trading hub throughout the centuries for tin, copper and China clay – the latter of which is still exported from the area today.

“The town sits within the South Coast – Eastern National Landscape and is bordered by farmland, rugged coastline and pretty beaches. The meandering creeks of the river wind through ancient oak woodlands, making the area perfect for exploring.”

On TripAdvisor, the Fowey Estuary has hundreds of excellent ratings. One reviewer wrote: “Whenever we visit this part of Cornwall, we always try to get to visit Fowey. There are plenty of pubs, cafes, and restaurants to choose from, and a good selection of shops, including some local independents.

“We always make time to walk out to Readymoney Cove, and sometimes also St Catherine’s Fort, enjoying the views of the estuary along the way. There are toilets and a small beach shop at Readymoney Cove.”

Another visitor said: “What a delightful place. We parked at the top of the town and walked down. This is quite steep for anyone who may have difficulty walking. The lovely streets with quaint shops enable you to just meander down to the estuary. But you just have to buy some delicious Cornish pasties too.”

Someone else praised: “What a beautiful place, loads to do around the town with some of the best restaurants, great shops and fantastic views. Will be back again.” Another fan wrote: “Great place to unwind, and chill on the river. Fowey Town has a thriving mix of restaurants pubs and variety on entertainment to easily keep you there for a week.”

Diving star Tom has been married to Dustin Lance Black since 2017 and the pair have two sons

Tom Daley is often in the spotlight, thanks to his diving career and now TV fame on Celebrity Traitors.

But when he’s not in the public eye, he lives a quiet family life with his husband Dustin Lance Black and their two children.

The star, 31, has been married since 2017 and became a dad for the first time the following year, and has been open about what family life means to him.

“I used to define myself by diving,” the Mirror quoted Tom as saying in 2021. “If I dived well it reflected on me as a person. Now I’m first and foremost a father and husband.” So who is Tom’s husband?

Is Tom Daley married?

Tom first came out to his fans in a YouTube video in December 2013, in which he shared that his “whole world changed” when he fell in love with a man.

He started dating Dustin, who is a screenwriter, director and producer known for movies such as Milk and J Edgar.

Tom told The Guardian earlier this year that the pair met at a dinner in 2013 and that they “talked and talked until we both realised how similar our lives were”.

“He had just lost his brother; I’d lost my dad,” he said of Dustin, who is almost 20 years older than him. “He had just won his Oscar; I had just won an Olympic medal. It was the first time I could complain about success to somebody who knew I wasn’t really complaining about success.”

The couple revealed their engagement in October 2015 with a traditional wedding announcement in The Times.

They tied the knot in 2017 in Dartmoor National Park, with Tom telling fans on Instagram at the time: “On 6th May 2017, I married the love of my life, @dlanceblack.”

Does Tom Daley have any children?

In 2018, the couple welcomed their son via a surrogate and named him Robert ‘Robbie’ Ray, a tribute to Tom’s dad Robert, who died in 2011.

Second son Phoenix was born in 2023, also via a surrogate.

The following year, Tom announced he was retiring from diving, revealing his decision after the 2024 Summer Olympics.

Tearing up in a moving interview with the BBC, he said: “It’s hard to talk about, it’s emotional… I want to be with my family.”

Celebrity Traitors airs on BBC One

At the end of Downderry’s shingle and sand, there’s a tumble of rocks and then a long beach stretching eastwards into the distance at the foot of the cliffs. Sitting on the rocks is a man with five raffish dogs that immediately start prowling around me and my partner, Sophie. A wet nose touches my bare calf.

Every long-distance trek has these decisive moments. The South West Coast Path has plenty. Should we stay on the beach, or take to the cliff? What’s the tide doing? And, more immediately, are these dogs going to bite my bum? It has happened to me once before.

“Nice dogs.”

The man shrugs. “They’re all right.”

That’s that sorted then.

“Is there a way up the cliff, off that beach?”

“See the rock?” He points into the far distance where a headland juts out. “Just before that, look for the blue rope. It’s a scramble.” He looks at us, like the director of Poldark assessing extras for a gruelling fight scene with Aidan Turner. “You should manage. Tide’s going out.” He gives a sly grin. “Lovely day for it.”

We thank him and set off. Every journey has its turning points, I reflect, especially when you push off from the safe haven of the guidebook and OS map into the uncharted waters of local knowledge. Boots crunching into shingle, I wonder why he grinned like that. Have we been duped?

I first came to the South West Coast Path as a teenager in 1978 when I heard on the radio that the entire 630-mile route was open. The statistics were what captured my imagination: climb four times the height of Everest, embark on 13 ferries, scale 436 stiles and pass 4,000 signs. That averaged out at one sign every 250 metres, on a path where the sea is always on one side. It was, I told my sceptical parents, impossible to get lost.

With a schoolmate, I hitchhiked to Plymouth where we immediately got lost and spent a miserable night in a concrete underpass. Next day, having hitched to Penzance, we began walking west and made it to Land’s End. It was less than heroic, but over subsequent years I’ve done a lot more of the path, perhaps even most of it. I did not, however, go back to Plymouth. Bad memories. Now I discover that the path west of the city is considered the “forgotten” section, the bit least visited. That intrigues me.

A glance at the map shows how modern road and rail links into Cornwall from Plymouth bypass a sizeable peninsula of land, the Rame, formed by the English Channel, Plymouth Sound, and the rivers Lynher and Tamar. Before those car and train routes were built, travellers bound for Cornwall would usually cross the Rame. They would go down to the city docks and get themselves rowed across the Hamoaze, as this stretch of the Tamar is known, no doubt weaving through a chaotic throng of smacks, sloops, gigs and galleons. In 1811, one such traveller was the artist JMW Turner, who had himself ferried across, then set off walking around the coast, carrying six blank sketchbooks, lots of pencils and a fishing rod. He had been commissioned to contribute to one of the first tourist guides, Picturesque Views on the Southern Coast of England. We are walking the same route, but in the opposite direction.

Back on the beach at Downderry, having checked the tide times on my phone, we decide to trust in the blue rope. At a point where the cliff leaves only a few feet of shingle to pass, we discover why the helpful dog-owner had grinned. There is a naked man standing in the shallows.

British naturism often seems to feature pot-bellied middle-aged men staring out to sea like goose-pimpled Gormley statues. Battern Cliffs, I discover later, is an informal naturist beach.

Further down the strand, past a couple more quasi-Gormleys, we find the blue rope and scramble up through a beautiful cool forest of holm oaks. The plant life on this walk is a never-ending joy: from the tiny details of delicate ferns and spleenworts to the huge columns of giant viper’s bugloss and this sepulchral forest. Buried within the shade, we find the ruins of a Victorian folly, St Germans Hut, and connect back to the coastal path, strolling in sunshine along the tops all the way to Portwrinkle.

When Turner came here, Cornwall was not the tourist honeypot of today. Just a few years before he arrived, the oracle of what was “picturesque”, the Rev William Gilpin, had denounced the county as being “without a single beauty to recommend it”. Other grandees were equally scathing: “brooding evil” and “hideous and wicked” were among the kinder comments. Turner, however, led the vanguard in reassessment, filling his notebooks with quick-fire sketches that deftly captured the spirit of the land.

After a night in a friendly B&B in Sheviock (the owners take us to their favourite pub, the defiantly quirky Rod and Line in Tideford), we rejoin the path at Whitsand golf course. Soon after that, we encounter the biggest irritation of the South West Coast Path, one Turner never had to contend with: the Ministry of Defence. Red flags are flying over Tregantle Down and we’re forced to use the road. I know the Russians are about to invade and we should get ready, but surely they will be repulsed when they see our coastal Gormleys?

Despite the MoD, the next section up to and around Rame Head is one of the best, skirting secret little sandy coves and finishing along Plymouth Sound into the pretty village of Cawsand. This place has a fine seafood restaurant, The Bay, and some good pubs. (There is also a foot passenger summer ferry to Plymouth if you want to skip ahead.)

We stay the night nearby, then walk through the shady 865-acre Mount Edgcumbe country park. The gardens are filled with camellia varieties, but I’ve just missed the flowers, sadly. Get there in May, I reckon.

Emerging on the Tamar River, we catch the Cremyll foot ferry across the Narrows to Plymouth. If I still have bitter memories of that night in the concrete underpass in 1978, they are soon dispelled. The revitalised Royal William Yard is now home to a brewery, cafes and art studios. The sun is shining and there are warships manoeuvring out in the Sound. We stroll around to the Hoe where, during the summer of 1815, huge crowds gathered to watch a pot-bellied middle-aged man stare out to sea from the deck of another warship, the 74-gun Battle of Trafalgar veteran, HMS Bellerophon. Her cargo was the captured Emperor Napoleon, held here before being shipped to Saint Helena. The crowds cheered, causing outrage in some quarters.

We wander down to the refurbished lido and spot a set of steps and terraces. The sea is full of people swimming out to a couple of floating platforms. I have swum every day of this walk and I do so again. Plymouth and this forgotten slice of Cornwall, I have to admit, has fully redeemed itself.

The trip was provided by Inntravel, which has a six-night walking tour of Cornwall’s south-east coast with breakfasts, luggage transfers and route maps from £1,035

Amazon (AMZN 0.57%) is best known for its e-commerce empire and its highly profitable cloud arm, Amazon Web Services (AWS). The tech giant’s shares have rallied over the last year, lifting the company’s market cap to more than $2.3 trillion as of this writing. That strength reflects solid execution across the business and optimism about the company’s growing role in artificial intelligence (AI). Yet one driver often takes the back seat to AWS: advertising.

Advertising is now a sizable, fast-growing revenue line that benefits from Amazon’s unmatched data, the shopping intent of visitors, and its expanding media footprint. Further, ad revenue accelerated again in Q2, and recent management commentary points to more opportunity ahead. Put simply, advertising is an important reason the long-term investment case remains compelling.

Image source: Getty Images.

Advertising momentum keeps building

Amazon’s advertising services revenue rose 23% year over year to about $15.7 billion in the second quarter of 2025 (22% growth excluding currency impacts). This followed 18% growth in the first quarter (19% excluding currency impacts), showing healthy acceleration as the year progresses. Drivers include more shopping activity, improved ad tools and measurement, the ongoing rollout of Prime Video ads, and connected-TV (CTV) partnerships that broaden where Amazon can serve ads. Notably, Amazon highlighted a June integration with Roku, with the partnership reaching an estimated 80 million U.S. households. The company’s push into CTV expands advertiser reach beyond retail search into high-engagement streaming, where advertisers are willing to pay more for ad spots.

Together with retail search, brand and display placements, and its demand-side platform (DSP), Amazon is deepening the ways it can match advertiser goals with shopper intent and authenticated audiences across its sprawling digital services. In other words, the company isn’t just selling placements; it is selling performance.

Why advertising is key to the bull case

Advertising represents high-margin revenue layered on top of Amazon’s massive retail and media ecosystem. While the company does not disclose ad margins, the economics are attractive and scale with traffic, selection, and relevance improvements.

Although management doesn’t provide specific commentary on its advertising margins, it often implies that they are key to the company’s profit growth story.

“Advertising remains an important contributor to profitability” in both its North America and international segments, said Amazon CFO Brian Olsavsky in the company’s most recent earnings call.

While Amazon does not break out operating income for advertising separately, the high-margin nature of the business is a meaningful tailwind for overall profitability in North America and internationally. AWS, of course, remains the largest profit center, generating $10.2 billion of operating income in the quarter, but advertising is an increasingly important profit contributor that diversifies and helps stabilize the overall business through cycles.

It’s also worth noting that Amazon’s capabilities in advertising are difficult for rivals to replicate, given the company’s scale. So it wouldn’t be surprising to see Amazon continue gaining market share in advertising for years to come.

But this part of Amazon’s business comes with risks. Ad budgets are cyclical, and privacy and regulatory changes can impact targeting and measurement. Additionally, competition from other large advertising platforms remains intense. Meanwhile, Amazon stock’s valuation already bakes in healthy growth across its businesses. With a market cap in excess of $2.3 trillion, trailing-12-month sales approaching $700 billion, and net income of $70.6 billion for the same period, shares trade at a premium that assumes steady execution. But advertising strengthens the case that Amazon can sustain double-digit top-line growth and rising profitability alongside AWS over time.

AWS may be the more important profit engine today, but advertising is a quiet force that is enhancing Amazon’s profit engine. The business benefits from Amazon’s data and distribution, adds higher-margin revenue to retail, and opens new monetization surfaces in streaming. For investors evaluating Amazon’s long-term return profile, understanding the momentum and durability of advertising — not just cloud — is key.

Some investors look for stocks that have good growth potential, while others look for stocks that can provide consistent income. It’s not always an either-or thing as some stocks have proven to do both.

Case in point: energy company MPLX (MPLX 2.05%). Although MPLX may not be a household name like other top energy companies, the stock has been on an impressive run over the past five years. In that span, it’s up close to 186%, while the S&P 500 is up 95% (as of Sept. 9).

No one can predict if the stock will continue growing at its current pace, but one thing’s for sure: Its ultra-high dividend is a dream for investors interested in income stocks.

Image source: Getty Images.

How MPLX’s business works

You can think of the energy industry as three parts: upstream, midstream, and downstream. Upstream companies explore for and produce oil and natural gas; midstream companies focus on storing and processing; and downstream companies refine, market, and sell end products like the gasoline you buy at gas stations.

Some larger companies may operate in two or three of the phases, but MPLX solely operates in the midstream section. Formed by Marathon Petroleum, it owns pipelines, processing plants, storage facilities, and other infrastructure that moves and conditions oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids (NGLs).

MPLX says it handles over 10% of all natural gas produced in the U.S.

MPLX has a shareholder-friendly business structure

MPLX isn’t structured like your typical corporation. It’s a master limited partnership (MLP), meaning its profits and losses are passed on to partners (investors) to avoid paying taxes on the corporate level, allowing it to pay out more money to its investors.

Its current 7.6% dividend yield is below its 9% average over the past five years, but it’s still more than six times the S&P 500’s average.

MPLX Dividend Yield data by YCharts

MPLX’s dividend payout won’t be consistent like typical corporations because it depends on its distributable cash flow (DCF). However, its DCF has had a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.9% since 2021.

MPLX has shown solid financials in recent years

MPLX makes money by charging fees for transporting, storing, and processing oil, natural gas, and NGLs. These are typically long-term contracts, which help provide the company with stable and predictable cash flow.

In the second quarter, MPLX generated $3 billion in revenue, which was down around 1.6% year over year. Its adjusted EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) — which focuses strictly on its profits from core operations — was $1.7 billion, up 5% year over year.

MPLX isn’t a company that will typically produce double-digit percentage revenue growth consistently, but what matters most to investors is its DCF because that determines its dividend payout (the main reason many investors invest in the stock to begin with).

MPLX’s DCF in the second quarter only increased 1% year over year to $1.42 billion, but it was able to pay out $0.9565 per share compared to $0.8500 per share in the same quarter last year.

Should you own MPLX’s stock?

An ultra-high dividend yield is great for income investors, especially when it’s as high as MPLX’s. However, that alone shouldn’t be the sole reason you invest in a stock, because it could be a yield trap. Thankfully, when it comes to MPLX, that doesn’t seem to be the case.

MPLX likely won’t experience tech-like high growth over the long term, but it has solid growth opportunities. One of the key ways MPLX grows is via acquiring systems and assets that expand its footprint.

A recent example is its acquisition of Northwind Midstream, which it purchased for $2.375 billion. The company expects this to increase its treating capacity by roughly three times by the second half of 2026 and return mid-teen percentages, which is pretty impressive.

If you don’t mind dealing with the additional tax step needed when dealing with MLPs and their distributions (like filing a Schedule K-1 form), then MPLX can be a good income addition to your portfolio.

West Africa is becoming a silent powder keg that could explode into a cataclysmic situation in the next few years. As the world’s attention remains focused on Europe and the Indo-Pacific, Islamic extremist organizations are gaining traction and territory along Africa’s “coup belt.”

Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali, all ruled by pro-Russian military juntas, are facing military defeats and setbacks by al-Qaeda and ISIS affiliates. A spillover of the conflict could create a domino effect not only on the African continent but also in Europe and among various regional and world powers, all of which have vested interests in Africa.

Jihadist Foothold in the Maghreb

The Sahel region is haunted by a lack of political leadership, miscommunication amongst regional neighbors, and persistent military coups that have allowed extremist organizations to flourish. In the early 2010s, al-Qaeda’s Maghreb branch, AQIM, suffered degradation from counterterrorism operations in Algeria but found reinvigorated life from Mali’s instability.

Taking advantage of the 2012 Tuareg rebellion in Mali, jihadist groups affiliated with AQIM rapidly captured major Malian cities in the North and threatened to march South. In response to the jihadist threat, the West would conduct two major French-led interventions in Serval and Barkhane that pushed the al-Qaeda-led extremist factions back but did not defeat them fully.

Several Islamist militia factions and AQIM would formally merge to form Jama’at Nasr al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) in 2017 to combat Malian, West African (ECOWAS), and Western forces, along with consolidating their remaining held areas. Using a lack of control on other neighboring borders, JNIM and later ISIS would spill over the insurgency into Burkina Faso, Niger, and others.

Rise of the Russian-Backed Juntas and Wagner Group Atrocities

The fight against JNIM and ISIS would take a major turn due to the rise of the coup belt, which is a domino effect of unstable governments being ousted by military officers, which led to hostile juntas across West Africa. Since 2020, coups have frequently taken place in Mali, Niger, Chad, Guinea, Sudan, Burkina Faso, and Gabon.

The blowback from the repeated coups became detrimental to countering ISIS and JNIM, as the military juntas refused cooperation with Western states that had the capabilities to target jihadists, train fledgling African militaries, and provide valuable intelligence. The Malian junta particularly ended collaboration with France and demanded a French withdrawal from their country, which Paris started in 2022, while the government denied being forced to leave.

Furthermore, the United States would lose its largest drone base on the continent in Niger as the Nigerian junta broke off military cooperation with Washington and demanded a withdrawal. The drift between the junta and the West left a powder keg that Russia would soon exploit.

The Kremlin dispatched the Wagner Group/Afrika Corps to prop up the juntas in the coup belt in a deal to provide ‘protection’ in return for resources. Outside of gas and oil, Russia also uses the black-market illicit resource trade from Africa to help fund its invasion of Ukraine.

Russian mercenaries are enshrined in atrocities along the coup belt, such as wholesale massacres of villages in Mali, sexual assaults, and using locals as slave labor to extract minerals. Furthermore, the presence of Russian mercenaries is turning Africa into another front of the Russo-Ukrainian War as Kyiv’s special forces conduct clandestine operations against the Afrika Korps in the region.

The Russian-backed Juntas Are Rapidly Losing Control

The aforementioned drift between regional blocs such as ECOWAS and Western states capable of providing resources that West African nations don’t have is having a detrimental effect on combating extremism in the region. In Mali, the brutality of the military junta and aligned African Corps mercenaries is now having a blowback, as both forces have attempted to subdue Tuareg separatists unsuccessfully.

In late July of 2024, several dozen Wagner and Malian junta soldiers were ambushed by Tuareg militia in Tinzaouaten, marking the deadliest ambush for Russian mercenaries in Africa in several years. Further losses have led to one-third of Malian territory either being contested or controlled by JNIM or ISIS as of 2025.

Niger’s junta government is also facing setbacks from extremist militias. Without U.S. advisors and the drone base supplementing local Niger forces, ISIS’s Sahel-affiliated IS-GS now has a foothold that encompasses Western Niger’s territory. Digressing from ECOWAS and having a diplomatic conflict with Nigeria, Niger no longer has cross-border cooperation on counterinsurgency operations, which Boko Haram, IS-GS, and JNIM are taking advantage of.

Burkina Faso’s security situation is rapidly deteriorating under Ibrahim Traore, the most pro-Russian junta leader in West Africa. Currently, 40% of Burkina Faso’s territory is under the control of or contested by JNIM.

Russia has been unable to stop the advance of the Islamist extremist groups through its Wagner and Africa Corps mercenaries due to several factors. With the war in Ukraine causing a plethora of equipment losses to the Russian military, Moscow has been unable to fulfill defense contracts of weapon exports to their allies and interests in Africa. After losing influence in Syria, the South Caucasus, and, to a lesser extent, Central Asia, the Kremlin could also lose its key West African juntas as their invasion of Ukraine ties down critical assets.

Implications for Africa and Europe

Growing regional instability in West Africa will have looming negative effects for outlying countries in the region. With the junta’s disengagement in counterterrorism and counterinsurgency operations with more experienced countries, al-Qaeda, ISIS, and other extremist groups will continue to grow or perhaps even take over key provincial capitals, as seen with decades of combating extremism in Somalia.

Jihadist groups historically implemented archaic forms of sharia law that include frequent executions for minor infractions. Because of fears of what JNIM and ISIS will implement, along with atrocities committed by the junta, a brewing, exacerbated refugee crisis could unfold in both Africa and Europe.

Russia has used armed conflicts in Africa to its advantage, particularly due to the refugee crisis, which plays into Moscow’s hybrid warfare strategy. Using Islamist insurgencies that fuel the refugee crisis towards Europe plays into the Kremlin’s strategy of attempting to prop up pro-Russian political parties under the guise of anti-migration, as seen in Hungary, Slovakia, Germany, France, and others.

Regional security and stability are crucial to the interests of Africa, the West, and the East. The lack of governance enacted by the juntas, along with their failures in counterinsurgency, is now having negative consequences on the continent. Unless the coup-belt officers turn course and allow regional coordination to combat al-Qaeda and ISIS, the jihadists will continue to gain ground and perhaps create a major base of operations not seen since ISIS’s ‘caliphate’ that stretched across large swaths of Iraq and Syria.

A popular Spanish city that was once bustling with tourists is now “dead” as Brits have allegedly ditched the destination to holiday elsewhere, and it’s not the first time Spain is said to have been quiet this year

A once bustling Spanish city is now “dead” as Brits have reportedly abandoned the destination for other holiday spots, marking another quiet period for Spain this year. Footage has surfaced online showing the area’s completely deserted streets.

Laura, who goes by lauratravelvlogs on TikTok, has been chronicling the stark changes in Barcelona this year, having resided there herself for over two years. She noted a significant drop in visitor numbers and, for months, she’s been posting videos of Spain‘s vacant streets, silent roads and empty beaches – all to illustrate the drastic shift in the country’s tourism landscape.

In a recent video featuring eerily quiet roads, Laura questioned: “Sorry, no one can argue that these roads leading up to the beach were not packed in 2023?” It appears others also concur with her observations about Spain’s dwindling crowds in recent years.

Laura mentioned that there are still some tourists “for now” at popular spots, but claimed spending is at an “all time low”. She has noticed a substantial change over the past two years, and is astounded by how tranquil the city has become.

In an earlier video, Laura highlighted how deserted the city centre was during the summer because “tourists don’t feel welcome”. She suspects the protests that have occurred in Spain have deterred people from visiting altogether.

Hundreds of people have responded to the footage since it emerged online, with many eager to voice their opinions. Their reactions were quite split.

One viewer commented: “One by one businesses from all sectors will start to close – that’s the sad thing.” Another chimed in with: “There’s already a lot of smaller towns that have fallen into despair.

“So many people have lost their jobs due to the drop in tourism. It’s madness – they’ll be begging people to go back in a few years.”

A third responded: “Tourism is Spain is 40% down. The south coast of Spain was eerily quiet last week.”

Meanwhile, a fourth also remarked: “Spain is old news – there are far nicer countries to spend your money in.”

Some viewers questioned what time of day the footage was captured though, with others suggesting it’s not entirely doom and gloom. One individual said they visited in March and there were “hundreds more” people about, even though some Brits believe the resort is “finished” when it comes to tourism.

Overall, it’s been documented that Spain has been deserted by numerous holidaymakers, with eateries and coastlines appearing virtually deserted. Areas of the nation have been witnessing a drop in visitor figures for the first time since the pandemic, alongside years of anti-tourist demonstrations by residents.

In August, images from Benidorm showed a multitude of vacant seats outside various establishments and rather deserted beaches. This is particularly unusual for major holiday hotspots during the summer period.

Miguel Pérez-Marsá, the head of the nightlife association, previously told Majorca Daily Bulletin: “The tourists we’re interested in are being driven away; they don’t feel welcome and are going to other destinations.” The impact is also being felt by tour guides.

Pedro Oliver, president of the College of Tour Guides, disclosed that excursion sales have plummeted by 20% this summer. “If you generate negative news, which has repercussions in other countries, tourists opt for other destinations when choosing their holidays,” he stated.

“We are sending the message that we don’t want tourists and that everything is too crowded.”

Once the capital of England for almost 200 years, today it is a quiet town with a rich history and a castle that dates back to the 11th century

When you think of the capital of England, London’s iconic landmarks like Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament immediately spring to mind.

But this wasn’t always the case — 300 years before London took the title, a humble market town northeast of Birmingham in Staffordshire held the honour. Tamworth, spanning just 12 square miles, is not only Staffordshire’s smallest borough but also one of the tiniest in the country.

However, don’t underestimate its historical significance — Tamworth was once the capital of England. In the 8th century, King Offa declared Tamworth as the seat of Royal power, a status it maintained for nearly two centuries, reports the Express.

While Tamworth was the centre of power, and even boasted a palace during King Offa’s reign, it wasn’t until the 11th century that Tamworth Castle was constructed by Robert Despenser, steward of William the Conqueror.

Before and after the renowned Norman conquest of England, Tamworth experienced a period of prosperity as local lords built castles in and around the town.

In the 8th century, England was divided into kingdoms: Mercia, Northumbria, and Wessex, with Mercia being the largest and most influential.

Tamworth was at the heart of the Mercian Kingdom, and the Mercian Kings spent more time here than anywhere else.

However, London’s status as the capital city was solidified in 1066 when William the Conqueror marched on the city following his victory in the Battle of Hastings.

Today, the market town retains its historical charm and offers locals a tranquil lifestyle, with independent shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants dotting the streets of the traditional town centre.

It might shock many, but England has had a number of capitals before London was finally chosen.

In the 10th Century, Athelstan, the first king of (all) England and grandson of Alfred the Great, declared Malmesbury his capital after vanquishing an army of northern English and Scots.

Not only does Colchester claim to be Britain’s oldest recorded town, but it also became the nation’s Roman capital in AD49.

The 2025 Alaska meeting has served as a wake-up call, prompting Canada to undergo a strategic realignment in its foreign policy with a particular focus on strengthening ties with Europe and the Asia-Pacific region.

On Ukraine’s Independence Day, Canada’s Prime Minister did more than just visit Kyiv. His presence sent a message of genuine solidarity and signalled to the world that Canada may be ready to move beyond symbolic gestures into the space of real security commitments.

To address the question, why is Canada recalibrating its global posture?

It is crucial to recognize that Trump’s meeting with Zelensky at the White House served as a stark reminder of the conditional and fragile nature of American support.

If Ukraine, a nation actively resisting military aggression, can be subjected to strategic indifference, then there is little assurance that Canada will be immune to similar treatment. The shifting tenor in Washington, illustrated by former President Trump’s imposition of tariffs and his dismissive rhetoric regarding Canadian sovereignty, signals a deeper recalibration in U.S. foreign policy. For Ottawa, the message is clear: it can no longer rely on the stability of its relationship with Washington. This shift threatens all U.S. allies, including Canada and European countries that have relied on the U.S. security umbrella for decades.

Alongside his visit, Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed support for Ukraine’s call for long-term security guarantees as part of any future peace deal with Russia. That support includes the possibility of deploying Canadian troops to Ukraine. Prime Minister Mark Carney’s words carry the weight of his intent:

“In Canada’s judgment, it is not realistic that the only security guarantee could be the strength of the Ukrainian Armed Forces in the medium term,” Carney told reporters. “So that needs to be buttressed. It needs to be reinforced.”

The statement was not simply vague diplomatic language, but it has given a clear message to the hesitant European capitals, and NATO strategists in Brussels now have a concrete framework to build around. Berlin now has political cover to move forward, which has been cautious about postwar commitments. Paris, which has talked about troops but wavered on details, now has an ally willing to share the burden. London, navigating domestic pressure, has now been offered a lifeline.

For Moscow, the message is unambiguous: Western resolve will not be undermined by time and political maneuvering. Putin’s calculation has always been that Western resolve would crack, that domestic politics would eventually force Ukraine’s allies to abandon ship. But now the tables have turned, and a peacekeeping force backed by Canada, Britain, and France—with German support—isn’t a negotiating position Putin can simply outlast. It’s a permanent commitment he will be forced to reckon with.

“We are all working to ensure that the end of this war would mean the guarantee

of peace for Ukraine, so that neither war nor the threat of war is left for our

children to inherit,” Zelenskyy told a crowd of dignitaries.

He further added that he wants future security guarantees as part of a potential peace deal to be as close as possible to NATO’s Article 5, which considers an attack on one member state as an attack against all.

The Canadian prime minister, Mark Carney, and President Zelensky formalized a

$680 million drone co-production agreement, scheduled to commence imminently. Canada also joined the PURL initiative, a multilateral fund mechanism enhancing Ukraine’s access to advanced weaponry, coordinated by the U.S.

So far, Canada has pledged:

• $680 million for drone co-production.
• $500 million for the PURL initiative
• $680 million for drone co-production
• $320 million for armored vehicles and other resources
• Readiness to join a postwar peacekeeping force

His leadership hasn’t stopped there. As holder of the G7 presidency, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced these measures during the 2025 G7 Summit held in Kananaskis, Alberta, Canada.

“We are working with international partners to strengthen security commitments to Ukraine. While hosting the G7 Summit, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced $2 billion in additional military assistance for Ukraine, as well as the disbursement of a

$2.3 billion loan. We continue to work with our Allies and partners to coordinate and bolster our support through the Ukraine Defence Contact Group, including F-16 pilot training under the Air Force Capability Coalition. Canada announced the disbursement of a $200-million contribution through the World Bank at the 2025 Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome, Italy.

This marks a turning point, with Canada emerging as a key leader in NATO’s collective response, especially at a time when traditional allies have backed off or shown hesitation due to diplomatic pressures. The combination of military aid and

Economic reconstruction funding reflects a mature and comprehensive approach, underscoring Canada’s recognition that lasting peace depends on both strong defense and sustainable development. Moreover, Canada’s strategy aims to reduce reliance on U.S. markets without provoking retaliation—a delicate but necessary balancing act in today’s complex geopolitical landscape.

On August 24th, Carney changed the course. Had he not, Canada would still be making trips to Washington years from now, offering empty platitudes, clinging to diplomacy on thin ice, and watching its future partner in Europe be crushed by imperial aggression. Canada has realized it must help Europe, help Ukraine, and prove it can be counted on.

The arithmetic is brutal for Moscow. With over $20 billion already locked in for 2026 from just three nations, and Europe’s aid machinery now running independently of Washington’s whims, Putin faces a grim calculus. As Europe and Canada lead the charge, the West’s resolve hardens—and for Putin, the future looks increasingly untenable.

Into a Finnish labyrinth

One of the most magical places I’ve been is Lake Saimaa in eastern Finland – a huge labyrinth of islands and tranquil forests where you don’t come across many people. We rented a lakeside cabin (typically they cost from about €100 a night, sleeping two) and watched the midnight sun shimmer across peaceful waters. Days were spent kayaking between uninhabited islets or hiking pine-scented trails, with only the call of black-throated divers (or loons) for company. We visited the Linnansaari national park on an archipelago in the middle of the vast lake (the largest in Finland and fourth largest freshwater lake in Europe), where encounters with rare Saimaa ringed seals await. It’s nature’s embrace at its purest – remote, quiet and utterly rejuvenating.
Anthony

Canyons and forests in Montenegro

Last autumn, I visited Durmitor national park in northern Montenegro, a quiet and beautiful place in the Dinaric Alps. The road there passed through thick pine forests and opened on to wide valleys surrounded by tall, rocky mountains. I walked to the Black Lake (Crno Jezero), where the water was so still it perfectly reflected the autumn colours of the trees. In the hills, shepherds looked after their sheep, and small villages sold fresh cheese and honey. I also gazed down into Tara River Canyon, which is among Europe’s deepest gorges; right at the bottom, several thousand feet below me, I could see the bright turquoise ribbon of the river.
Lorna Walkden

Cycling through the Bosnian countryside

My partner and I cycled the Ćiro trail in Bosnia Herzegovina. We picked up the trail in Ivanica and followed it for more than 80 miles to Mostar. It follows the route of the Dubrovnik to Mostar railway line, which closed in the 1970s, and has a lot of spooky, bat-filled tunnels. We barely met another person on the route. One night we camped overnight in a pub beer garden because we were worried about mines. Stunning scenery, spooky history, and we saw tortoises on the trail.
Anna Fenton

Pyrenean hideaway, Spain

If there was ever a jaw-dropping way to enter Spain it has to be over the peaks of the Pyrenees to the village of Ochagavía in Navarre. Nestled in the valley of Salazar, its cobbled streets and whitewashed homes are surrounded by rivers, forests and peaks where walkers mingle with birds of prey, chamois, marmots and an occasional hermit. When civilisation and replenishment are needed, Sidrería Kixkia, a restaurant in Ochagavía, will fill your very grateful tank with local cider and a very meaty menu.
Liz Owen Hernandez

Remote islands off northern Germany

We stayed at the charming seaside resort of Cuxhaven in Germany and took the horse-drawn carriage over mud flats to visit the tidal island Neuwerk with its extraordinary 700-year-old lighthouse. I’d also recommend a ferry trip beyond Neuwerk to incredible Heligoland island to see the 47-metre-high Lange Anna sea stack and the large gannet colony. You can see the craters left by the British in 1947 when the occupying authorities decided to blow up the remaining German military installations on the island in one giant explosion, having already bombed the island severely in 1945. Yet the tiny island with its red cliffs and grassy plateau survived somehow, and is now home to more than 1,000 people.
Sue Kyson

Kayaking between icebergs, Iceland

Starting in Reykjavík, with my 15-year-old, I took a rental car for a road trip, staying in small hotels and hostels on the way. We went kayaking between icebergs in the Jökulsárlón lagoon, snowmobiling and ice-climbing on the Sólheimajökull glacier and whale-watching near Húsavík. We were amazed to see the molten lava on the Reykjanes peninsula, as well as the interactive volcano museum near Vik. Highlights for my teen included taking a ferry to the island of Grímsey to snorkel with puffins while they were diving for fish.
Karen Guenzl

Brittany’s quiet side

Tucked away in western Morbihan, an hour from Vannes and the Breton coast, Inguiniel is a quiet corner of Brittany, where rolling hills and forests invite you to slow down. We stayed at picture-perfect Camping Pont Calleck, which was ideal as a walking and cycling base. From there we cycled to Le Faouët, a town with a pretty square, a 16th-century market hall, and striking gothic chapels. As evening fell, our ride took us along the River Scorff past weirs and watermills and eventually to a quiet auberge for a traditional Breton meal.
Kevin Atkins

Winning tip: bathed in constant daylight, Norway’s Svalbard

The Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard (which used to be called Spitzbergen) in summer is bathed in constant daylight because it is entirely within the Arctic Circle. Dog sledding on wheels is a great way to experience this remote landscape, guiding your teams of eager huskies over the tundra, past mountains necklaced with puffy Arctic cottongrass flowers. Boat trips, passing near the town of Barentsburg, the inhabitants of which are mostly Russian, allow closeup views of slumbering walruses, minke whales and dozens of seals. Nearby, huge cliffs at Alkhornet are the breeding ground for thousands of birds, and below the nests, arctic foxes wait patiently for their next meal. Afterwards, rent a floating sauna cabin, leaping into the sea to cool off.
Caroline

Turkey’s serene Konakli is the most affordable destination for couples looking for a break, with prices averaging £421 per person for an all‑inclusive stay, according to TravelSupermarket

The cheapest European destination for a couples holiday is Konakli, according to a new report.

TravelSupermarket, a holiday comparison site, has revealed the most affordable beach destinations for couples looking to escape once the summer holidays end, with September offering great value for romantic getaways.

New analysis of average prices for seven‑night couples’ holidays highlights Turkey and Greece as top choices, with both countries claiming three spots in the top ten. The study has been released after the Mirror published its interactive bargain holiday map.

Turkey’s serene Konakli is the most affordable destination with prices averaging £421 per person for an all‑inclusive stay.

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Konakli sits on the Turkish Mediterranean coast and is best known for its beautiful beaches. Hospitality is by far the biggest business in the region, with 15 five‑star hotels in a town of just 18,000 people.

It’s just 20 minutes away from Alanya, which is a bustling resort packed full of restaurants, bars and holidaymakers from across the world. If Konakli begins to feel a little quiet, then a visit to Alanya is a good bet.

If Konakli doesn’t float your boat, fear not. There are plenty of other cheap all0inclusive resorts to choose from.

TravelSupermarket ranked Puerto de la Cruz in Tenerife second on the list at £487 per person. Turkey’s popular Alanya resort claims third place at £493 per person, while Spain’s Costa Dorada destination Salou ranks fourth at £506 per person.

Greek destinations feature prominently with two Corfu locations making the list, alongside Zante’s Alykes which secures fifth place at £508 per person. Marrakech in Morocco offers excellent value in sixth position at £531 per person, with Corfu’s lively Kávos ranking seventh at £543 per person, followed by Bulgaria’s Sunny Beach at £557 per person in eighth place.

Steph Marinkovic, head of editorial at TravelSupermarket, shares her expert couples tips for five of the destinations below, alongside a great deal for each destination:

Konakli – £421 per person

Turkey is a great bet for couples on a budget, and serene Konakli offers the best of all worlds. There’s a quiet, sandy beach for sunbathing, the Taurus Mountain for hiking and lively Alanya – ideal for fun nights out – just 20 minutes away.”

Deal: Seven nights all‑inclusive at the 5‑star NoxInn Deluxe Hotel from £419pp

Puerto de la Cruz – £487 per person

“Puerto de la Cruz is a world away from the resorts in Tenerife’s south. Colourful streets splashed with huge murals make this north coast city a joy to explore. The black‑sand beaches and cool Lago Martiánez pools are just the cherry on top!”

Deal: Seven nights B&B at the 4‑star Melia Costa Atlantis Tenerife from £479pp

Alanya – £493 per person

“Couples can combine culture, history and plenty of opportunities for R&R in sun‑drenched Alanya. Highlights include Cleopatra Beach, Alanya Castle, and the city’s excellent range of traditional Turkish hammams and spa hotels.”

Deal: Seven nights all‑inclusive at the 4‑star Club Big Blue Suite Hotel from £465pp

Salou – £506 per person

“Salou’s three‑park PortAventura World is much quieter in September, so kids‑at‑heart can indulge their inner child without the crowds. Couples will also love the resort’s chilled‑out side – think romantic seaside strolls, spa hotels and wine tasting in ‘cava country’ close to nearby Tarragona.”

Deal: Seven nights B&B at the 4‑star H10 Salauris Palace from £440pp

Alykes, Zante – £508 per person

“Low‑key Alykes is the perfect antidote to rowdy Laganas just 30 minutes’ drive away. The village centres around a golden beach lined with loungers and relaxed bars. Paddleboard together by day, then sip cocktails as the sun sinks over the Ionian Sea.”

Deal: Seven nights B&B at the 4‑star Koukounaria Hotel & Suites from £499pp

Europe is packed with amazing city break destinations but there’s one destination that gets overlooked despite its laidback vibes and spectacular natural beauty

One European destination offers a city break for those looking to seek adventure and reconnect with nature in a way that other cities don’t.

I’ll be honest, while I was desperate to visit Switzerland, Geneva itself was not at the top of my list. Although, with the help of Geneva Tourism’s immersive itinerary, I was able to see it for exactly what it is: a breath of fresh air.

The global city has acted as an international centre for diplomacy for decades and hosts the highest number of international organisations in the world, which is why it is known as the ‘peace capital’. This idea of peace extends beyond the bounds of bureaucracy into the lifestyle of the locals and the kind of getaways it offers to tourists.

Unlike other city breaks, a weekend away in Geneva is spent surrounded by the mountains, with ample opportunity to tuck into Swiss favourites from the local vineyards and that world-famous chocolate. The whole trip felt incredibly wholesome. It’s not necessarily the cheapest of city breaks, but it does offer a quiet luxury that rivals the likes of Monaco or Paris.

To make exploring as seamless as possible, Geneva offers a City Pass, starting at £28, giving you access to over 60 attractions for free or at a discounted price. This one pass works as your key to the city; whether you use it to travel from place to place, unwind with a vineyard tour, go sailing along the lake, or visit a museum, there’s plenty on offer.

I used it to travel around the city on the bus and tram systems, which I found easy to use and locate, and even on a less ordinary mode of transport – the Mont Salève cable carts. Sitting on the outskirts of Geneva, accessible by bus, the cable cars, within minutes, take you to the highest heights, offering panoramic views of the city and the French Alps.

At the heart of the city is Lake Geneva, which has breathtakingly clear water. The city is built around the lake, meaning the best way to explore Geneva is to take to the lake. There are water sports opportunities and boat trips galore. The Geneva Tour cruise is free with a City Pass and allows you to set sail for a one-hour getaway along the water. After leaving the harbour, this boat tour offers unparalleled views of Mont Blanc and surrounding mountains, local monuments and picturesque villas.

I set out to make waves with Genevaboat, on a small but luxurious – and most impressively private – motor that took us far and wide across the vastness of the deep blue. For those wanting to experience the true freshness of its turquoise blue waters, this boating experience offered a wakeboard and skis, or you could simply hop off for a dip on your own in the serene setting.

One highlight not to be missed is the River Rhône. From barbecues to picnics, sunbathing and a quick swim, it’s popular with locals looking to reconnect with nature and soak up the translucent water. My way of enjoying the river was slightly more adventurous and had me hammering down the rapids in a raft.

If you’re a seasoned city breaker, you’ve most likely done your fair share of boat trips. As beautiful as they can be, it can be a slightly predictable way to see a place. Not so with this activity, which was provided by Rafting Loisir. Not only do you get to have some peaceful moments floating along the water with the tip of Mont Blanc as your backdrop, but you also get the adrenaline-fuelled chaos of the dams as you get drenched with water.

That said, if your instructor is half as fun as ours was, they’ll use any excuse to get you into the water, or simply resort to playfully pushing you in. Geneva is a city that lets you embrace the great outdoors, in whichever way you feel most comfortable: quite literally in the deep end, or from your comfort zone.

As for exploring a little further afield? I never considered a biking tour while on a trip, but my god, it was the best way to see the hidden hills of the countryside in Geneva. And to make life even more easy-going, just like the Swiss, Welo bike tours offered electric bikes, so you’re only really doing half of the work.

The quiet life can be found just 20 minutes or so outside of the city, just a stones throw away from the French border in a patch of dream-like countryside. We made a pit stop to one of the local family-run vineyards for a wine tasting session which is an absolute must if you want a real taste of Switzerland, or if you’re just looking for a bit of a buzz.

From a tourist perspective, the Swiss are all about a casual glass (or bottle) of wine with dinner, and less so a rowdy round of beers in a bar. Throughout the three days I spent there, I didn’t spot a single patch that was bustling with punters, despite the plentiful euros and the gorgeous sunshine.

As for foodies, the city offers an impressive selection of spots for real fine dining. It’s knowing where to find them that is the tricky part in a city that feels incredibly compact. Geneva Tourism makes it a lot easier with their numerous food guides which are available online, listing the top spots for whatever vibe you’re after.

The most impressive of the food came when we paid a visit to L‘Auberge D‘Hermance, a quaint restaurant buried in a mediaeval village by the lakeside. I tasted fresh local vegetable dishes, while the others tucked into their famous chicken, and the table was met with plenty of satisfying ‘hmmm’ sounds with each bite.

Alongside that, I can’t help but mention the brand new Ottolenghi that just opened in the city centre, making the perfect work lunch spot for those attending Geneva on business. Hand on heart, I haven’t tasted food that good in years. While the dishes seemed simple, the flavours hidden within were unreal.

What Geneva does so effortlessly is blend a wide range of cultures, whether that’s through its food, wines, languages, or lifestyle, and a visit gives you the chance to experience it all while offering something entirely new.

Book the holiday

• Welo bike tours start from Adult 49 CHF / Child 40 CHF for three hours. Find out more on www.welo.swiss/en/.
• The Geneva CityPass starts from 30 CHF for 24 hours. Find out more on www.geneve.com.
• Genevaboats tours start from 400 CHF for an hour. Find out more on www.genevaboats.com.
• A number of airlines offer direct flights to Geneva from the UK including easyJet, British Airways and Jet2.

George Nathanel was found guilty of illegally using the properties in North Finchley, north London, for short-term rental bookings, Barnet Council said in a statement

A rogue landlord has been hit with a hefty £75k fine for unlawfully renting out two flats on Airbnb and Booking.com to unruly revellers.

Neighbours of properties leased out to partygoers by George Nathanel were subject to banging parties and chaos.

A court heard that the properties were being booked through holiday platforms for brief stays by large groups, often using them for raucous parties. Neighbours reported significant noise disruptions due to lack of soundproofing and antisocial hours, with boisterous parties continuing into the small hours of the morning.

Victim statements presented in court included one from a local resident who described the rentals as “stressful and devastating.” He said that they had a “detrimental impact on his life, his work and mental health” and it “had severely impacted his ability to sleep and has made living in the property unbearable.”

Have you been badly impacted by a holiday let? Maybe we can help. Email [email protected]

Mr Nathanel was convicted of illicitly utilising the North Finchley properties in north London for short-term lettings, according to Barnet Council.

The landlord, who oversaw the flats on behalf of Zenobia properties, was served a notice by the council in November 2023 to halt the use of the flats following grievances from local residents.

The Grove Road residences were scrutinised for potential planning control breaches as the properties only had permission to be used as self-contained single households. Nathanel failed to attend court hearings, telling the court that he was residing in Russia with his children and awaiting surgery.

The landlord claimed ignorance about the short-term lets on Airbnb and Booking.com, yet was hailed as “an amazing, attentive and responsive host” in Airbnb reviews.

The court heard that the two flats had been occupied for at least 220 days within the first ten months of 2024, according to evidence from the prosecution.

On June 26, 2025, Nathanel faced justice at Willesden Magistrates’ Court, where he was convicted for not adhering to a Breach of Condition Notice from the council. He received a hefty fine of £75,000, was ordered to cover council costs amounting to £5,400, and pay a victim surcharge of £2,000.

Cllr Ross Houston, Cabinet Member for Homes and Regeneration, commented: “We gave Mr Nathanel ample opportunity to stop using the properties as short term rentals, but were left with no alternative but to take him to court when he didn’t stop.

“Barnet Council clamps down hard on rogue landlords and where they don’t cooperate, we will always bring them to justice. We would like to thank the residents who brought this case to our attention. This is a great result for the neighbours whose lives were made a misery by the illegal letting of these flats on Airbnb and Booking.com.

“The prosecution and huge fine highlights the seriousness of the case and will be a strong deterrent to other rogue landlords from breaking the rules in the borough of Barnet.”

A Booking.com representative said: “When accommodation providers sign up to list on Booking.com, they agree to our terms and conditions, where we ask them to verify that they are operating in full compliance with local laws and are legally permitted to rent out their property on a short-term basis.

“If we are ever made aware that a property on our site may not be operating in compliance with local regulations, we investigate and take further action as needed.

“At Booking.com, we remain committed to collaborating with the Government and local authorities to help deliver sustainable, measured legislative solutions for short-term-lets in the UK.”

Airbnb was contacted for comment.

A milestone court case came to a close in Spain earlier this month, ruling that ten holiday lets all located in the same block must close down due to “the illicit and unsanitary activities” that had taken place there.

Vomiting and sex in the communal areas, as well as drunken, destructive, and lewd guest behaviour, had caused one family stress, anxiety, and sleepless nights. This was judged to have inflicted psychological damage on the family, which includes two children, and violated their fundamental right to privacy.

Madrid’s 44th Court of First Instance ruling—that the flats must stop being used as holiday lets—is a significant one, as the properties were registered legally but their presence was judged to infringe on the family’s rights.

In the ruling, the judge noted “the constant noise, the breaking of shared fixtures, the filling of the lobby with suitcases at all hours, and the presence of shopping trolleys filled with towels,” before the family were awarded €37,000 in damages.

Beach lovers looking for a ‘peaceful’ spot that’s ideal for a day out or watching beautiful summer sunsets

Blackpool is one of the UK’s most beloved holiday resorts, home to a gorgeous sandy beach and other attractions. However, beachgoers looking for a seaside getaway might also love a lesser-known beach found nearby.

St Annes Beach is well worth a visit for holidaymakers or day-trippers who find themselves near Lytham St Annes. The smaller resort is a short drive from Blackpool and less than 90 minutes by car from central Manchester. Visitors love the “peaceful” beach, recommending it as the perfect spot to watch the sun go down in the summer.

Posting online as @hannxhml, a Manchester-based blogger shared a video praising the beach. Her video said: “You found the most peaceful beach one hour away from Manchester.” Her caption continued: “This beach was so clean and quiet, definitely recommend for a day trip and for amazing sunset views!”

She added: “It is a bit of a walk to the water so it’s worth noting if you want to swim, but it made for a nice walk.” Elsewhere, a blogger who posts on TikTok as @zahidrahman also praised the beach. He wrote: “St anne’s beach – only 1hr from manchester – must visit this summer to watch the sunset.”

Both videos impressed viewers, who agreed the beach makes for a great day out. Someone replied: “What a beautiful beach.” Another response read: “One of my favourite places.”

Someone shared: “Love it there. My friend lives in Lytham St Annes I’m honestly jealous,” and a commenter joked: “Takes 4 days to reach the water. Amazing beach though.”

Visit St Annes says the beach is lovely year-round, though it shines brightest during the summer months. The website says: “Huge, open acres of golden sand front against a traditional Victorian seaside seafront at St Annes.

“It’s a lovely place to enjoy a stroll, look around the gardens, and take in the seaside vibe. Listen to children playing and soak up the fresh air and weather. Lovely at any time of the year, it really comes into its own when the sun shines!”

The beach has an average rating of 4.5 out of five stars on TripAdvisor, and it’s also ranked as the number one thing to do in the area. One recent review said: “St Annes’s beach is gem of place. We had booked 2 huts.

“Majority time spent on beach. Kids enjoyed. Well equipped and maintained facilities. Clean toilets. Only missed is the sea water was too far away. Did try to walk towards but were unsure about tide time so came back. Must visit.”

Someone else wrote: “A lovely spacious beach. We have also rented the beach huts in the past. Check the tide times as the sea is rarely seen here but it’s because it’s in an estuary.

“Parking is accessible, they have lovely cafes all around and you will have fun here for sure. Very compact sand just a little bit in. Pillowy closer to the edges.”

Between Aberystwyth and Cardigan the quiet coastline is sublime, with incredible sunsets, dizzying and spectacular coastal paths, gorgeous quiet beaches and dolphins. Start in Dylan Thomas’s old stomping ground, New Quay, and follow the coastal path south along cliffs and past Cwmtydu beach before finishing at gorgeous Llangrannog, where you get two beaches for one (perfect Cliborth beach requires a lower tide to access). Kayaking and surfing are great, and the Pentre Arms provides refreshments with a view.
Matt Lunt

A scenic parkrun near Sunderland

The Leas near South Shields (a few miles north of Sunderland) is a beautiful stretch of limestone cliffs and coastal grassland that is a haven for sea birds and wildflowers. There are footpaths and bridle paths across the Leas, so it attracts cyclists, dog walkers and runners all year round. The local parkrun uses the paths and it must be one of the most scenic in the country. The rock stacks along the coast are a great place for spotting cormorants, fulmars and kittiwakes among others. No matter the weather I love to walks these paths and feel the fresh sea breeze through my hair. A wonderful place.
Matty

The holy Crail, Fife

Fife is a glorious peninsula bordered by a brilliant coastal path that takes in a variety of beaches, fishing villages and is an area rich in wildlife and diverse landscapes. The area from Crail to St Andrews is of particular beauty, with several gorgeous places to stop for lunch, such as Cambo Gardens cafe near Kingsbarns and the Cheesy Toast Shack at East Sands in St Andrews. There are loads of places to stay and use as a base to explore the region. The larch-clad cabins at Kinkell Byre offer the opportunity to rest in style. And farther north are the wonderful forest trails and sand dunes of Tentsmuir.
Stevie Kirkwood

Cornwall’s Celtic rainforest

Wander the banks of the River Fal and Helford River in south Cornwall, through ancient Celtic rainforest, where the trees meet the sea. This rare habitat gives us a glimpse of prehistory, with lichen-laden branches, crisp, damp air and some of the UK’s rarest wildlife. It feels otherworldly, yet oddly familiar.
Amy

Electric waves of Ynys Môn (Anglesey)

Penmon Point on the easternmost point of Ynys Môn is a great place to watch for sea birds. The stunning Trwyn Du lighthouse looks out to Puffin Island, and if you’re lucky, one might fly right past you. But we have seen even more magic there when it gets dark. If conditions are just right, the waves light up electric blue with bioluminescent plankton as they crash over the pebbles. For refreshments, the Pilot House Cafe is nearby and has a fantastic view from its garden.
Chris Jones

Poignant history in Morecambe Bay

You need to consult your tide tables before visiting Sunderland Point on Morecambe Bay. This extraordinary place of sea-sucked mudflats, salt marsh and vast skies is cut off daily at high tide. I cross the causeway in May when the sea pinks (sea thrift) are flowering and the air is bright with the cries of birds – oystercatchers, curlew and redshanks. It feels remote, but in the 18th century Sunderland Point was a bustling port for Lancaster’s transatlantic trade, which brought prosperity but also inhumanity. A walk round the peninsula leads to the grave of an unknown child slave abandoned here in 1736, now adorned by visitors with painted stones. Its bleak beauty will break your heart.
Morag Reavley

Where the River Foyle meets the sea, Derry

I’ve been walking my dog on the same stretch of coast for four years and I never tire of the sheer strangeness of it. Culmore Point is where Derry’s River Foyle meets the North Atlantic. Some days you can see a line in the water where the silt-filled Foyle meets the sea. Beautiful old-money houses look out across the water to a power station and chemical plant. Farther downstream the weird treeless landscape of the reclaimed land of Eglinton Embankment catches the eye. Spare a thought too for the young men who trained on these river beaches in May 1944 for the Normandy assaults a month later.
Keiran

Fossils, tidal flats and birds in Merseyside

From West Kirby on Wirral, you can walk across the tidal flats of the Dee estuary to the red sandstone formations of Little Eye, Middle Eye, and Hilbre Island, a string of uninhabited islands offering naught but spectacular nature. In summer you can spot grey seals hauling themselves on to sandbanks, and three types of terns (common, little and sandwich) darting past. Listen out for skylarks and meadow pipits too. For an extra challenge, search for the Triassic-era Chirotherium footprint. Always check tide times carefully, and for extra awe, time your return to the sun setting low, framed by the distant Welsh hills.
Sarah

A cycle by the sea in Aberdeenshire

Cycling along the North East Coastal Trail from Portsoy to Macduff in Aberdeenshire is my idea of heaven. In stunning coastal countryside you cycle through charming fishing villages with historic harbours. I’ve spotted dolphins, porpoises and seals on the route. On a rocky coastline just beyond Macduff, there’s an old tidal pool at Tarlair. Though no longer used for swimming, its beautifully restored art deco tea pavilion is the perfect spot to refuel before your journey back. While there, take a short wander to the secluded Salmon Howie beach tucked behind the cliffs – it’s such a beautiful spot.
Peter Diender

Winning tip: fin-du-monde vibes in East Yorkshire

When, as a child, I read Z For Zachariah, I imagined a landscape with the exact fin-du-monde energy of the East Yorkshire beach from Ulrome to Bridlington. On this stretch of Holderness, you’ll find neither the Norfolk chalk boards of iced latte and shakshuka nor the monastic ghosts of farther north. But if six miles of uninterrupted beach walk – in the company of nothing more glamorous than pure air, weather and proper decay (not the genteel sort) – is your thing, this is a place you should visit. Morcheeba soundtrack optional. Tired legs and a cleansed soul guaranteed.
Eliza Ainley

Some Greek islands, such as Santorini and Mykonos, are brimming with tourists in summer and can get crowded so a travel fan has shared an alternative that is less busy but is just as beautiful

Brits with a love for Mediterranean getaways often jet off to Greece, particularly during the summer months. Seeking sun without straying too far from home, UK holidaymakers typically opt for Greek destinations, as most flights are under four hours.

Greece’s allure lies in its iconic white-washed structures, idyllic beaches, and a history steeped in ancient ruins. While many British tourists gravitate towards famed Greek islands like Mykonos and Santorini, these spots can become quite congested during peak season. However, there are lesser-known gems that offer equal charm without the crowds. Essex-based travel content creator Dorota Urbaniak shares advice, inspiration, and hotel reviews, with a particular fondness for European trips. In a recent TikTok video, she shone a spotlight on the island of Paros.

Dorota emphasised that “not every Greek island is busy in summer” by showcasing the serene atmosphere of Paros from dawn till dusk on a day during her visit.

Nestled in the Aegean Sea, Paros is celebrated for its golden beaches, lush mountainscapes, and villages perched atop cliffs.

Centrally located within the Cyclades Islands, it boasts numerous sandy shores, verdant peaks, and cliff-side hamlets.

The bustling hubs of Parikia and Naoussa are popular for nightlife, as noted by Greeka. These villages are full of “traditional taverns, luxurious restaurants and sophisticated bars.”

Holidaymakers who prefer tranquillity over loud music can explore the serene villages of Lefkes and Marpissa.

Dorota’s TikTok video, which features clips of Paros from 9am to 8pm, showcases the island’s peacefulness as she strolls down the streets and relaxed on a quiet, sandy beach.

She also highlights the white buildings, a seaside restaurant with outdoor tables, and vibrant flowers.

In her TikTok post caption, she notes: “I’m only saying…not every Greek island is busy in summer.” Her video portrays Paros as a relaxing and uncrowded destination.

Greeka points out that the island is renowned for its “stunning” beaches, including Santa Maria, Golden Beach and Kolymbithres, which are among the most popular.

However, the Greek tourism website also mentions numerous secluded beaches for those seeking privacy.

The weather in Paros is hot and sunny in the summer but mild in the winter, and it “gets very humid at night”, according to Greeka.

Paros is a prime spot for water sports like windsurfing and kitesurfing, thanks to the ideal wind conditions provided by the Meltemi winds, strong, dry, northerly winds that blow across the Aegean Sea during the summer months.

The island is easily accessible by plane from Athens International Airport and by ferry from the ports of Athens (Piraeus, Rafina and Lavrio), Mykonos, Santorini Naxos, and many more Cycladic islands.

In the comments of her TikTok post, Dorota emphasised “not every Greek island is busy” and advised followers to “choose wisely.” A user said: “I need to go asap” while another labelled Paros as “amazing.”

How much can you strip away from the war film and still have a war film?

That question invigorates “The Damned,” the new movie from Roberto Minervini, an Italian-born director who has spent the last 25 years living in America, our worrying cultural undercurrents seeping into his portraits of the marginalized and the discontent, usually documentaries.

“The Damned” represents his first foray into more traditional narrative storytelling, yet this existential drama bears all the hallmarks of his earlier work, less concerned with incident than conjuring a sense of place, time and, most important, a state of being. In his latest, Minervini brings viewers into the thick of the Civil War, only to find the same dazed souls and gnawing uncertainties that have always been his focus. It’s a war film with very little combat, but it’s about a war that still rages today.

Minervini’s naturalistic, observational style is on display from the film’s first scene, which lingers on a pack of wolves meticulously digging into an animal carcass. “The Damned” stays on the images just long enough for them to grow discomforting — when will Minervini cut away? — before introducing us to his anonymous protagonists, a collection of volunteer soldiers in the U.S. Army who have been sent out west in the winter of 1862.

The specifics of the mission are as mysterious as these men’s names as we watch them carry out the minutiae of military busywork. They set up tents. They play cards. They do target practice. Are they meant to represent the hungry wolves from the movie’s opening? Or are they the prey?

To call “The Damned” an antiwar film would be to assign an arbitrary value to what is really a series of offhand episodes consisting of only modest activity. In Minervini’s recent stellar nonfiction projects “The Other Side” and “What You Gonna Do When the World’s on Fire?,” the director collaborated with his subjects to create unvarnished glimpses of everyday lives, sometimes working from prearranged scenarios. Although Minervini is credited as “The Damned’s” screenwriter, his new film draws from a similarly close relationship with his cast, the actors drawing on aspects of their real lives to inform their roles, scenes developing from a loosely sketched-out plot.

In such an intimate, pensive atmosphere, characters emerge gradually out of the rugged landscape like windswept trees or weathered stones. The man identified in the end credits as the Sergeant (Tim Carlson, one of the subjects of Minervini’s 2013 documentary “Stop the Pounding Heart”) is ostensibly the leader, but as the untamed Montana wilderness goes from barren to snowy over an unspecified period of time, the more apparent it becomes that no commanding officer is necessary. The skeletal score by Carlos Alfonso Corral, who doubles as the film’s cinematographer, hints at an elemental menace just over the horizon. But real danger rarely occurs. Instead, these men are trapped in their own heads, their tender, confessional musings about God, war and manhood so rudimentary that they never aspire to the heights of folksy poetry. These soldiers are nothing special — as unimportant as their assignment.

Because Minervini avoids the tropes of the antiwar film — no big speeches, no ponderous metaphors — it’s almost a shock that he allows for one convention, an actual battle scene, which occurs about halfway through the 88-minute runtime. But even here, “The Damned” refuses to follow formula, resulting in an intentionally haphazard sequence as the soldiers are ambushed, the characters fleeing and shooting in every direction, the camera trailing behind them, desperate to keep them in frame. Whether it’s enemy forces or some random buffalo, the movie’s shallow depth of focus ensures that we only see our troops. Everything else resides in a permanently fuzzy, unsettled background, a constant middle distance that traps the characters in their spiritual purgatory.

There are limitations to Minervini’s spartan approach. Whereas his documentary films crackle thanks to his unpredictable interactions with his subjects, “The Damned” cannot help but feel slightly overdetermined, the outcomes predestined rather than organically unearthed. And yet, the concerns he brought to those earlier movies ripple here as well. “The Other Side,” his somber 2015 study of racist drug addicts and gun-toting militia members in rural Louisiana, remains the definitive warning of our modern MAGA age, while 2018’s “What You Gonna Do” prefigures the Black Lives Matter movement.

Now, for the first time, this prescient filmmaker visits America’s distant past, subtly pinpointing the economic inequalities, senseless brutality and thwarted masculinity that will bedevil the nation for the next 160 years. The Civil War is long over, but the country’s divisions remain, those core tensions naggingly unresolved.

Don’t think of “The Damned” as an antiwar film — consider it an origin story for Minervini’s perceptive, understated exploration of an America still in conflict.