The Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge in China has been officially opened and is now the highest bridge in the world – reducing the journey time for locals from two hours to just two minutes
The remarkable structure boasts a deck-to-surface measurement of 625 metres(Image: Getty)
China has unveiled a stunning new record-breaker after officially opening the world’s highest bridge in Guizhou province in the southwest of the country. The Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge has slashed journey times from two hours down to just two minutes, according to local state media.
The remarkable structure boasts a deck-to-surface measurement of 625 metres – more than half a kilometre – making it tower above the previous record holder. It beats the Beipanjiang Bridge (Duge Bridge), also in China, which stands at 565.4 metres, by nearly 60 metres.
China’s rapid construction capabilities have recently drawn admiration from figures including Reform UK MP Zia Yusuf, who publicly expressed frustration on social media about the lengthy timescales for smaller infrastructure schemes in the United Kingdom.
Work on the Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge commenced in January 2022 and was finished in under four years. The ambitious scheme resulted in a structure stretching almost 3km across a canyon dubbed the “Earth crack”.
The bridge measures 2,890 metres in total length and underwent rigorous testing before authorities gave the green light for public use.
As reported by ITV, before the bridge could be deemed safe for traffic, a dynamic load test was conducted, reports the Express.
This involved 96 lorries driving onto specific points of the structure in groups.
The new structure has now bagged the Guinness World Record for being the tallest bridge globally.
Now, globetrotters from all corners of the world are keen to witness the magnificent construction that officially opened its doors on 28 September 2025.
The Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge boasts glass walkways for visitors to gaze down at the Beipan River, approximately 580 metres below.
It also features viewing platforms and a glass lift leading to its sky-high café, set to open in November this year.
For those seeking a thrill, they can bungee jump from the bridge.
State media have reported plans for professional BASE jumping events.
The village of Inverie in Scotland is thought to be the UK’s most remote village and it’s home to the most remote pub too a place that visitors never seem to tire of visiting
(Image: Benjamin Robinson via Getty Images)
During the Covid lockdown, residents of Inverie faced greater challenges than most communities across Britain.
The small village of roughly 120 people depends entirely on its ferry service for everything from food and post to medicine and freight. When Western Isles Cruises cannot run the ferry to Inverie – which happens frequently due to poor weather conditions – nothing can enter or leave the settlement.
That’s because Inverie in Scotland has no road access whatsoever, only a gruelling two- to three-day trek over the mountains. The ferry service is therefore the villagers’ sole lifeline to essential supplies.
During the coronavirus pandemic, the usual 28 weekly sailings were slashed to just three – operating only on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.
“The pier has drop-off bins and a container plus many local residents would be keenly waiting the arrival of their supplies. In normal times they would create a human chain to help unload the boat up the steps and onto the pier but during Covid they couldn’t,” a blog on the ferry service’s website reads, reports the Express.
“So the skipper and crew unloaded the boat whilst the locals looked on at a distance. We didn’t need Joe Wicks as the workout was intense, especially at low tide! The crew were never so slim.”
The main village on the Knoydart Peninsula, Inverie sits on the northern shore of Loch Nevis. Whilst numerous villages in that region are isolated, Inverie is world-record-breakingly so.
It holds its own Guinness World Record for the Most Remote Village in the UK to prove it. It earned this distinction because there are no roads leading to it – you can only reach it by boat from Mallaig, or by tackling an arduous 16-mile trek through extremely isolated countryside.
Whilst getting there presents a challenge, the journey proves worthwhile for two compelling reasons: the stunning scenery and the local boozer.
The John Muir Trust, who own the land, are currently rewilding sections of Knoydart to restore its natural state.
“Centuries of burning and over-grazing by sheep and deer have damaged the habitat here. Over the last 30 years, we’ve planted native tree species and controlled deer numbers to improve biodiversity. Now we’re seeing the natural regeneration of birch, oak, hazel, rowan, Scots pine and other tree species,” the Trust’s website reads.
“As the trees have regenerated on Knoydart, native wildlife has returned. This includes pine marten, roe deer, bats and many types of woodland birds. There are also otters, foxes, water voles, buzzards and different types of eagle. Knoydart is also notable for a wide range of species in its wet heaths, grasslands and snow beds. We expect to see more biodiversity as the woodland continues to expand.”
Inverie village comprises little more than the renowned Old Forge – which bills itself as “the Remotest Pub in Mainland Britain”. “We are proud to be one of a few community-owned pubs in Scotland. Whisky, real ale, traditional music and amazing service are our passions,” the Forge claims online.
There are very few with a bad word to say about the pub, which stands as a welcoming beacon of warmth, open almost every day of the year, regardless of the weather.
“Heaven on earth. Had an amazing meal for my hubby’s 67th birthday recently. Such a friendly atmosphere and the food was excellent too – fish and chips for me, macaroni cheese for hubby. Freshly cooked and delicious! This visit was sublime in every way, the scenery wasn’t bad either,” one satisfied customer wrote on Tripadvisor.
Another added: “No visit to Inverie is complete without a visit to The Old Forge. What the community have done to the place since the buyout is outstanding, it is a credit to all who have worked so hard to revive this fantastic place to its former glory. Always a pleasure to visit and partake in wonderful food and drink, all served by a very enthusiastic group of folk. Hope to be back one day. Keep up the good work.”
The Knoydart Snug is operated by the pub and has a handful of beds available to those who get stranded in Inverie. With a lively pub and stunning scenery on your doorstep, you may find yourself hoping that the weather turns.
The simplest route to Inverie involves a scenic train ride to Mallaig, followed by a short ferry trip. The direct Glasgow to Mallaig train journey on the West Highland Line, run by ScotRail, is a treat in itself with stunning Scottish views.
The journey spans roughly 160 km and takes about 5 hours and 15 minutes, with multiple services operating each day.
With its towering walls, ancient castle and bustling harbour, Conwy is one of the most stunningly picturesque towns you’ll visit in Wales. This historic coastal retreat isn’t just popular with tourists; it even earned a spot on the Sunday Times’ list of the top places to live in the UK.
“Every kind of natural adventure is within easy reach of the brooding towers and tumbledown castle walls that cast an enchanting spell over this coastal hotspot,” they wrote of Conwy.
“Those lucky enough to live in the town can pick up groceries and grab a coffee in impeccably historic surroundings, while enjoying the reassurance of regular trains and a fast road.”
Conwy Quay is the ideal starting point for your exploration, adorned with lobster pots, entwined fishing nets, and all the delightful seaside paraphernalia you’d expect. Right next to The Liverpool Arms there’s even a convenient information board displaying the current rates if you’re considering docking your boat in the harbour, reports Wales Online.
Conwy is one of the most beautiful places you’ll ever visit (Image: The Quay Hotel and Spa)
Along the harbour, you’ll also discover one of Conwy’s most charming features: The Smallest House in Great Britain. Acknowledged by the Guinness Book of World Records, this petite red-fronted dwelling measures a mere 72 inches wide and 122 inches high and was inhabited until May 1900.
It’s been handed down through the same family for over 130 years. Its last known resident was a 6ft 3in fisherman named Robert Jones. Today, it serves as a quaint attraction and picture-perfect backdrop.
Things to do in Conwy
If you fancy a pint with a view, pop into The Liverpool Arms, the oldest traditional pub in Conwy town.
Situated right on the waterfront, just across the road from the quay and beaches, it’s particularly popular on a warm day with patrons spilling out onto the streets. History, harbour views and a good pint, what more could you ask for?
Alongside the harbour, Conwy’s main attraction is the Castell Conwy (Conwy Castle) and its walls.
Conwy Quay is the perfect place to kick off your exploring(Image: Alexander Spatari)
Part of Wales’ UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Castell Conwy boasts a concentric design with eight towers. It’s a key component of King Edward I’s “Iron Ring”, a chain of impressive fortresses built in Wales during the late 13th century to cement English dominance following the conquest of Wales.
Visitors can delve into the inner and outer wards, which house numerous rooms, and explore the castle walls, which feature 21 towers and fully encircle the town of Conwy.
Recognised for its aesthetic appeal and historical importance, the castle was dubbed one of Europe’s ‘most beautiful’ by influential publication Condé Nast Traveller.
They noted: “Aside from getting us one step closer to living out our fairytale fantasies, the staggering structures showcase some of the world’s best architecture, most stunning landscapes, and maybe even a ghost story or two. There’s perhaps no better place on earth to find awe-inspiring castles than in Europe, where it seems like you can’t visit a city or take a road trip without stumbling upon some sort of royal dwelling.”
Like many historical structures in Wales, Conwy Castle is said to be haunted, much to the delight of ghost hunters and paranormal fans.
Eerie sightings have included various silhouettes and dark figures observed from the battlements and windows overlooking the town. Given that King Henry VIII used the castle as a prison in the 16th century, many believe these apparitions to be former inmates.
In 2016, a group of paranormal investigators claimed to have captured the voice of a young girl spirit uttering ‘don’t tell them’. Not exactly what you want to hear in a dim, echoing fortress. In 2020, a man snapped a photo outside Conwy Castle, which he believes shows a procession of phantoms led by a male ghost with a sword, as reported by North Wales Live.
Dylan’s has opened its latest restaurant in the centre of Conwy(Image: Dylan’s)
Once you’ve had your fill of castles and spectres, it’s time for a treat, and Dylan’s Restaurant is just the place. Established in 2012, Dylan’s aimed to celebrate the produce, character, and natural beauty of North Wales, and they’ve hit the mark with this latest venture.
The menu is a heartfelt tribute to local produce, gathered from across the region and served in a building as stunning as the dishes themselves. From the upper levels, you can enjoy panoramic views of the 13th-century St Mary’s Church and Conwy Castle.
For somewhere to stay, the Quay Hotel and Spa is a great option.
This destination spa hotel boasts breathtaking views of the grand Conwy Castle and estuary and is conveniently situated near the Welsh towns of Conwy and Llandudno.
Lexie, who has 1.5 million followers on Instagram, sat down with the Mirror to share the two islands she is desperate to visit, on the same day Expedia released the 2025 Island Hot List
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Lexie Limitless is a world record breaking traveller (Image: Lexie Limitless/YouTube)
A record-breaking traveller has revealed the two islands she is desperate to visit.
Lexie Limitless is certifiably well-travelled. The record-breaking adventurer had visited every country on Earth by age 21, earning her multiple Guinness World Records. If that weren’t enough globe-trotting, she recently became the first person to circumnavigate the Earth in an electric vehicle, a project with Ford called Charge Around The Globe.
Now, the 27-year-old has teamed up with Expedia to share her pro tips and island hacks. “There’s something magical about island life. Time slows down, the air feels thick yet fresh, and the locals’ connection to nature is undeniable. Islands are little pockets of culture and tradition surrounded by endless ocean, which makes for the perfect environment to escape your routine,” Lexie explained.
“After a very hectic past few years, I’m not surprised Expedia is seeing a spike in island travel. I think people are craving a real escape, and islands offer exactly that. A lot of people, myself included, crave feeling secluded and immersed in an entirely different, slower culture. Islands check every box, whether you’re looking for adventure, wellness, or just to disconnect.”
Lexie, who has 1.5 million followers on Instagram, sat down with the Mirror to share the two islands she is desperate to visit, on the same day Expedia released the 2025 Island Hot List.
Koh Samui is packed full of beautiful resorts (Image: Minor Hotels)
Koh Samui, Thailand
Named the best island for affordable luxury by Expedia, Koh Samui has had a big year. It featured as the backdrop for the latest season of White Lotus, capturing viewers with its white sand beaches, amazing hotels, and waving palm trees just as much as the show did with its plot.
“I’ve really wanted to travel there since White Lotus came out. I have been to Thailand many times, backpacking, and it is one of the most affordable backpacking destinations. When people ask where to go, I always say ‘see Asia and Thailand’,” Lexie said.
As well as plenty of beautiful spots by the beach and pools to relax, Koh Samui offers popular attractions including the Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai), Ang Thong National Marine Park, and Fisherman’s Village. The abundance of markets and waterfalls should also be on your to-do list.
Sardinia, Italy
Sardinia’s rocky beaches and crystal waters are a sight to behold(Image: Getty Images)
Not a million miles away geographically or landscape-wise from the filming location of season two of White Lotus (Sicily), the large Italian island floating in the middle of the Mediterranean took Lexie’s spot as the second place on her island bucket list.
“Sardinia, definitely. I haven’t made it there yet, but Italy is one of my favourite countries to travel to. I have been to Italy 5 to 10 times, but there are so many places I haven’t been to yet,” she said.
There’s a huge amount in Sardinia to keep you busy. Popular options include visiting the Costa Smeralda for luxury and nightlife, exploring the Maddalena Archipelago for sailing and beaches, and discovering the ancient ruins of Nora or Su Nuraxi.
Lexie’s advice for making the most of trips to such places is not to plan too hard and to keep your mind open to the possibility of adventure. “Always keep your mind open to unexpected adventures. With so many travel guides and TikTok showing what’s going on at each island, you can get caught up in having that perfectly curated plan,” she explained.
The below destinations have made it onto Expedia’s global Island Hot List:
