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  • Pop Mart’s Wang Ning Is China’s 10th Richest Thanks To Labubu Mania Pop Mart's Labubu Triggers Buying Spree Labubu dolls on display at a Pop Mart store in Shanghai, Around the world, toys based on the character by Chinese toy company Pop Mart are flying off store shelves. Wang Ning, founder of toy maker Pop Mart International Group, has joined the ranks of China’s top ten billionaires for the first time, as the company’s Labubu dolls fly off store shelves in Asia, Europe and the U.S. Wang, who is the Beijing-based company’s chairman and CEO, is now the 10th richest man in China, according to the Forbes’s Real-Time Billionaires List. With a net worth of $22.7 billion based on a Pop Mart stake, the 38-year-old is the youngest member of the country’s top echelon of tycoons, which includes ByteDance founder Zhang Yiming, Nongfu Spring Chairman Zhong Shanshan and Tencent cofounder Ma Huateng. The price of Pop Mart’s Hong Kong-listed shares has tripled to more than $270 ($34.40) this year. Designed by Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung, the company’s Labubu dolls are being collected by celebrities around the world including American pop star Rihanna, English-Albanian singer and actress Dua Lipa and Lisa of the South Korean girl group Blackpink. The rabbit-like Labubu, which has pointed ears, jagged teeth and a mischievous smile, is causing havoc in stores. After Pop Mart launched a third edition of the doll in April, fights broke out in one London store among fans desperate to fork out £13.50 ($18.30) to £50 per doll. In its home market of China, a human-sized Labubu doll was auctioned on Tuesday for a whopping 1.08 million yuan ($150,000) in Beijing. China’s Ping An Bank tried to entice new customers by offering Labubu toys to anyone who opened a new account and deposited more than 50,000 yuan. That practice was recently stopped by financial regulators, who said the bank was offering improper incentives to attract deposits. Amid the seemingly insatiable demand for Labubu, investment banks Deutsche Bank and Morgan Stanley are substantially lifting their price targets for Pop Mart shares. Deutsche Bank, for example, lifted its target by 52% to HK$303 due to the company’s strong overseas growth momentum. "It is rare for a comic/toy IP [intellectual property] to break the culture wall and be embraced by both Asian cultures as well as mainstream Western pop stars and sports stars," Deutsche Bank analyst Jessie Xu wrote in a research note. A Pop Mart representative says the company has no comment on its share price. But not everyone is convinced it can last. “Overall, we view Pop Mart's shares as overvalued from a long-term perspective,” Jeff Zhang, a Hong Kong-based equity analyst at Morningstar, says by email. “While top IPs such as Labubu have maintained strong sales growth, we think long-run business risks remain high, as consumers' traction may shift to competitors' IPs.” When that might happen is difficult to predict, Kenny Ng, a Hong Kong-based securities strategist at Everbright Securities International, says by WeChat. The long-term growth of Pop Mart depends on whether its designers can keep creating hot products, he says. As for now, Ng says the shares are a bit expensive. The HK$365 billion company currently trades at more than 50 times its estimated earnings for 2025, he says. Pop Mart says sales during the first three months of this year grew as much as 170% year-on-year without providing specific figures, according to preliminary first quarter results announced via the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in April. The company had previously estimated that full-year sales could grow over 50% year-on-year to more than 20 billion yuan in 2025. Last year, its revenue surged 107% to 13 billion yuan, while profit attributable to owners of the company jumped over 180% to 3.1 billion yuan. Ng says short-term investors might need to wait and see. “I think there might be an investment opportunity if the shares fall a bit,” he says. “They are definitely not cheap.”
  • Find where you’re holding yourself back, build the right character traits, make playing small painful, get a second opinion and review with courage.
  • America’s Richest Women Celebrities 2025 After years of booming entrepreneurship, the market is softening for celebrity-backed companies. But eye-watering earnings continue to roll in for the biggest female movie, TV and pop stars in the country. Matt Craig COMP1-Kim-Kardashian-Oprah-Beyonce_RGB2 In business, timing is everything—even for the rich and famous. The boom time for celebrity entrepreneurship took off like a rocket around the end of 2020, and the pop stars, actors and talk show hosts who best took advantage minted fortunes in the hundreds of millions, even billions in a few cases, by putting their name on everything from cosmetics brands to TV and movie production companies. But now they, like many others, are feeling the effects of a cooling economy. On Forbes’ list of America’s Richest Self-Made Women this year, 16 celebrities rank among the 100 entrepreneurs, executives and entertainers. In order to make the cut, candidates had to be worth at least $350 million—up from $300 million last year and $225 million in 2023. These stars of the stage and screen are collectively worth $14.1 billion, up from $13.3 billion last year—thanks to the addition of actress Selena Gomez (No. 48), who isn’t yet a billionaire but whose estimated $700 million net worth makes up almost the entirety of that difference. Most of the other 15 stars’ fortunes are little changed from a year ago. Gomez launched her cosmetics company Rare Beauty at the start of the celebrity business boom, in September 2020, and it disclosed $367 million in revenue by 2023. Similarly, Judy Sheindlin (No. 61) signed a mega deal in late 2020 to move her eponymous TV arbitration show to Amazon Prime; pop star Rihanna (No. 35) raised money for her Savage x Fenty lingerie brand at a $1 billion valuation in early 2021; Madonna (No. 42) signed a lucrative new deal with Warner Music that summer; and, perhaps most notably, movie star Reese Witherspoon (No. 82) sold a majority stake in her production company Hello Sunshine in August 2021 at a reported $900 million valuation. The Hello Sunshine sale is now referenced regularly throughout Hollywood as the peak of a celebrity production bubble. At the time of the acquisition by Blackstone-backed Candle Media, the company projected $80 million in profit by 2023. But according to an October 2023 report in Bloomberg, it produced less than $10 million that year, and the pace of new productions has only continued to slow in the two years since. As of 2025, Forbes estimates Hello Sunshine is worth less than a third of its sale price. (A representative for Witherspoon disagreed with Forbes, but offered no guidance.) Markets have similarly cooled in the cosmetics space, the industry behind several women on the list, including Gomez, Rihanna, Kardashian and her half-sister Kylie Jenner (No. 52). Forbes estimates Rihanna’s net worth dropped nearly 30% in the past year, due to estimates of flat sales at Fenty Beauty and lingerie brand Savage X Fenty. “The market condition right now is exerting a sort of downward pressure on valuation,” Morningstar analyst Dan Su told Forbes in early May, referring to cosmetics firms. The same goes for music catalogs. Katy Perry (No. 97) sold stakes in her master recordings and publishing rights in 2023 for an estimated $225 million, but a similar artist trying to do the same deal today would expect a 20% to 30% discount, analysts tell Forbes. Perry is headed back out on tour this summer, as is Beyoncé Knowles-Carter (No. 45), who saw a massive jump in her net worth during her blockbuster Renaissance tour in 2023 but has already seen lower ticket prices and sales during early stops of her Cowboy Carter tour. The big outlier to this trend is Taylor Swift (No. 21), whose wealth increased by $300 million in the past year to $1.6 billion, according to Forbes estimates. Her signature Eras Tour started in 2023 and ended in December 2024, grossing a record-breaking $2 billion and generating earnings in a variety of ways, including ticket sales, a blockbuster movie and a book about the tour, a phenomenon that made her immune to the trend that hit other celebrities.
  • The ForbesUnder30Local Columbus list features young athletes, innovators and entrepreneurs making an impact. Learn more about the rising stars and future leaders in Columbus
  • How To Think Bigger In Business
  • Why Hollywood Stars Make Bank On Broadway
  • The Midas List returns for a 24th year. With only a handful of IPOs, and acquisitions, the big driver of changes to our ranking of the world's best VCs have been mega raises from startups like OpenAI & SpaceX
  • Trump Used Presidential Seal At Meme Coin Dinner—A Potential Violation Of Federal Law
  • The widely viewed AI-generated videos, which offer free upgrades to premium services from Spotify and Microsoft, are trying to trick users into installing malicious code that can spy on users’ PCs
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  • pop-marts-wang-ning-is-chinas-10th-richest-thanks-to-labubu-mania-pop-marts-labubu-triggers-buying-spree-labubu-dolls-on-display-at-a-pop-mart-store-in-shanghai-around-the-world

    Pop Mart’s Wang Ning Is China’s 10th Richest Thanks To Labubu Mania Pop Mart's Labubu Triggers Buying Spree Labubu dolls on display at a Pop Mart store in Shanghai, Around the world, toys based on the character by Chinese toy company Pop Mart are flying off store shelves. Wang Ning, founder of toy maker Pop Mart International Group, has joined the ranks of China’s top ten billionaires for the first time, as the company’s Labubu dolls fly off store shelves in Asia, Europe and the U.S. Wang, who is the Beijing-based company’s chairman and CEO, is now the 10th richest man in China, according to the Forbes’s Real-Time Billionaires List. With a net worth of $22.7 billion based on a Pop Mart stake, the 38-year-old is the youngest member of the country’s top echelon of tycoons, which includes ByteDance founder Zhang Yiming, Nongfu Spring Chairman Zhong Shanshan and Tencent cofounder Ma Huateng. The price of Pop Mart’s Hong Kong-listed shares has tripled to more than $270 ($34.40) this year. Designed by Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung, the company’s Labubu dolls are being collected by celebrities around the world including American pop star Rihanna, English-Albanian singer and actress Dua Lipa and Lisa of the South Korean girl group Blackpink. The rabbit-like Labubu, which has pointed ears, jagged teeth and a mischievous smile, is causing havoc in stores. After Pop Mart launched a third edition of the doll in April, fights broke out in one London store among fans desperate to fork out £13.50 ($18.30) to £50 per doll. In its home market of China, a human-sized Labubu doll was auctioned on Tuesday for a whopping 1.08 million yuan ($150,000) in Beijing. China’s Ping An Bank tried to entice new customers by offering Labubu toys to anyone who opened a new account and deposited more than 50,000 yuan. That practice was recently stopped by financial regulators, who said the bank was offering improper incentives to attract deposits. Amid the seemingly insatiable demand for Labubu, investment banks Deutsche Bank and Morgan Stanley are substantially lifting their price targets for Pop Mart shares. Deutsche Bank, for example, lifted its target by 52% to HK$303 due to the company’s strong overseas growth momentum. "It is rare for a comic/toy IP [intellectual property] to break the culture wall and be embraced by both Asian cultures as well as mainstream Western pop stars and sports stars," Deutsche Bank analyst Jessie Xu wrote in a research note. A Pop Mart representative says the company has no comment on its share price. But not everyone is convinced it can last. “Overall, we view Pop Mart's shares as overvalued from a long-term perspective,” Jeff Zhang, a Hong Kong-based equity analyst at Morningstar, says by email. “While top IPs such as Labubu have maintained strong sales growth, we think long-run business risks remain high, as consumers' traction may shift to competitors' IPs.” When that might happen is difficult to predict, Kenny Ng, a Hong Kong-based securities strategist at Everbright Securities International, says by WeChat. The long-term growth of Pop Mart depends on whether its designers can keep creating hot products, he says. As for now, Ng says the shares are a bit expensive. The HK$365 billion company currently trades at more than 50 times its estimated earnings for 2025, he says. Pop Mart says sales during the first three months of this year grew as much as 170% year-on-year without providing specific figures, according to preliminary first quarter results announced via the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in April. The company had previously estimated that full-year sales could grow over 50% year-on-year to more than 20 billion yuan in 2025. Last year, its revenue surged 107% to 13 billion yuan, while profit attributable to owners of the company jumped over 180% to 3.1 billion yuan. Ng says short-term investors might need to wait and see. “I think there might be an investment opportunity if the shares fall a bit,” he says. “They are definitely not cheap.”

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    Forbes
  • find-where-youre-holding-yourself-back-build-the-right-character-traits-make-playing-small-painful-get-a-second-opinion-and-review-with-courage

    Find where you’re holding yourself back, build the right character traits, make playing small painful, get a second opinion and review with courage.

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    Forbes
  • americas-richest-women-celebrities-2025-after-years-of-booming-entrepreneurship-the-market-is-softening-for-celebrity-backed-companies-but-eye-watering-earnings-continue-to-roll-in-for-the

    America’s Richest Women Celebrities 2025 After years of booming entrepreneurship, the market is softening for celebrity-backed companies. But eye-watering earnings continue to roll in for the biggest female movie, TV and pop stars in the country. Matt Craig COMP1-Kim-Kardashian-Oprah-Beyonce_RGB2 In business, timing is everything—even for the rich and famous. The boom time for celebrity entrepreneurship took off like a rocket around the end of 2020, and the pop stars, actors and talk show hosts who best took advantage minted fortunes in the hundreds of millions, even billions in a few cases, by putting their name on everything from cosmetics brands to TV and movie production companies. But now they, like many others, are feeling the effects of a cooling economy. On Forbes’ list of America’s Richest Self-Made Women this year, 16 celebrities rank among the 100 entrepreneurs, executives and entertainers. In order to make the cut, candidates had to be worth at least $350 million—up from $300 million last year and $225 million in 2023. These stars of the stage and screen are collectively worth $14.1 billion, up from $13.3 billion last year—thanks to the addition of actress Selena Gomez (No. 48), who isn’t yet a billionaire but whose estimated $700 million net worth makes up almost the entirety of that difference. Most of the other 15 stars’ fortunes are little changed from a year ago. Gomez launched her cosmetics company Rare Beauty at the start of the celebrity business boom, in September 2020, and it disclosed $367 million in revenue by 2023. Similarly, Judy Sheindlin (No. 61) signed a mega deal in late 2020 to move her eponymous TV arbitration show to Amazon Prime; pop star Rihanna (No. 35) raised money for her Savage x Fenty lingerie brand at a $1 billion valuation in early 2021; Madonna (No. 42) signed a lucrative new deal with Warner Music that summer; and, perhaps most notably, movie star Reese Witherspoon (No. 82) sold a majority stake in her production company Hello Sunshine in August 2021 at a reported $900 million valuation. The Hello Sunshine sale is now referenced regularly throughout Hollywood as the peak of a celebrity production bubble. At the time of the acquisition by Blackstone-backed Candle Media, the company projected $80 million in profit by 2023. But according to an October 2023 report in Bloomberg, it produced less than $10 million that year, and the pace of new productions has only continued to slow in the two years since. As of 2025, Forbes estimates Hello Sunshine is worth less than a third of its sale price. (A representative for Witherspoon disagreed with Forbes, but offered no guidance.) Markets have similarly cooled in the cosmetics space, the industry behind several women on the list, including Gomez, Rihanna, Kardashian and her half-sister Kylie Jenner (No. 52). Forbes estimates Rihanna’s net worth dropped nearly 30% in the past year, due to estimates of flat sales at Fenty Beauty and lingerie brand Savage X Fenty. “The market condition right now is exerting a sort of downward pressure on valuation,” Morningstar analyst Dan Su told Forbes in early May, referring to cosmetics firms. The same goes for music catalogs. Katy Perry (No. 97) sold stakes in her master recordings and publishing rights in 2023 for an estimated $225 million, but a similar artist trying to do the same deal today would expect a 20% to 30% discount, analysts tell Forbes. Perry is headed back out on tour this summer, as is Beyoncé Knowles-Carter (No. 45), who saw a massive jump in her net worth during her blockbuster Renaissance tour in 2023 but has already seen lower ticket prices and sales during early stops of her Cowboy Carter tour. The big outlier to this trend is Taylor Swift (No. 21), whose wealth increased by $300 million in the past year to $1.6 billion, according to Forbes estimates. Her signature Eras Tour started in 2023 and ended in December 2024, grossing a record-breaking $2 billion and generating earnings in a variety of ways, including ticket sales, a blockbuster movie and a book about the tour, a phenomenon that made her immune to the trend that hit other celebrities.

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  • the-forbesunder30local-columbus-list-features-young-athletes-innovators-and-entrepreneurs-making-an-impact-learn-more-about-the-rising-stars-and-future-leaders-in-columbus

    The ForbesUnder30Local Columbus list features young athletes, innovators and entrepreneurs making an impact. Learn more about the rising stars and future leaders in Columbus

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    Forbes
  • how-to-think-bigger-in-business

    How To Think Bigger In Business

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  • why-hollywood-stars-make-bank-on-broadway

    Why Hollywood Stars Make Bank On Broadway

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  • the-midas-list-returns-for-a-24th-year-with-only-a-handful-of-ipos-and-acquisitions-the-big-driver-of-changes-to-our-ranking-of-the-worlds-best-vcs-have-been-mega-raises-from-startups-like-openai

    The Midas List returns for a 24th year. With only a handful of IPOs, and acquisitions, the big driver of changes to our ranking of the world's best VCs have been mega raises from startups like OpenAI & SpaceX

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  • trump-used-presidential-seal-at-meme-coin-dinner-a-potential-violation-of-federal-law

    Trump Used Presidential Seal At Meme Coin Dinner—A Potential Violation Of Federal Law

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  • the-widely-viewed-ai-generated-videos-which-offer-free-upgrades-to-premium-services-from-spotify-and-microsoft-are-trying-to-trick-users-into-installing-malicious-code-that-can-spy-on-users

    The widely viewed AI-generated videos, which offer free upgrades to premium services from Spotify and Microsoft, are trying to trick users into installing malicious code that can spy on users’ PCs

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  • the-money-for-female-sports-stars-is-increasing-on-and-off-the-field-but-even-for-coco-gauff-simone-biles-and-caitlin-clark-its-not-enough-to-rank-among-the-elite-earners-photo-andy-che-2

    The money for female sports stars is increasing on and off the field, but even for Coco Gauff, Simone Biles and Caitlin Clark, it’s not enough to rank among the elite earners. (Photo: Andy Cheung via Getty Images)

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  • the-money-for-female-sports-stars-is-increasing-on-and-off-the-field-but-even-for-coco-gauff-simone-biles-and-caitlin-clark-its-not-enough-to-rank-among-the-elite-earners-photo-andy-che

    The money for female sports stars is increasing on and off the field, but even for Coco Gauff, Simone Biles and Caitlin Clark, it’s not enough to rank among the elite earners. (Photo: Andy Cheung via Getty Images)

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    Forbes
  • trump-u-s-businesses-ink-billions-in-deals-in-middle-east-see-the-list

    Trump, U.S. Businesses Ink Billions In Deals In Middle East: See The List

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  • ai-study-aid-chatbots-are-supposed-to-help-kids-with-homework-questions-but-in-test-conversations-with-forbes-they-did-quite-a-bit-more-illustration-emily-scherer-for-forbes-images-yaroslav-kush

    AI study aid chatbots are supposed to help kids with homework questions. But in test conversations with Forbes they did quite a bit more. (Illustration: Emily Scherer for Forbes; Images: Yaroslav Kushta, Artpartner Images via Getty Images)

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  • side-hustle-combos-that-actually-work-and-earn-up-to-5k-a-month-some-things-just-fit-peanut-butter-and-jelly-coffee-and-mornings-pizza-and-movie-nights-the-same-idea-applies-to-side-hustles-wh

    Side Hustle Combos That Actually Work (And Earn Up To $5K A Month) Some things just fit: peanut butter and jelly, coffee and mornings, pizza and movie nights. The same idea applies to side hustles. When you pair the right ones together, you can create something that feels easier, makes more sense, and pays off faster. Today, more people are picking up multiple gigs to boost their income. A recent survey by education platform Academized found that 52% of American millennials have a side hustle to help make ends meet. Many are turning to "polyworking," which means stacking a few jobs at once instead of relying on just one. The good news is you do not need to juggle random gigs to get ahead. When you combine side hustles that naturally complement each other, you can save time, build momentum, and create more income without burning out. Here are three side hustle combos that actually fit together and how you can use them to level up. Online Tutoring + Educational Content Creation Tutoring is one of the most flexible side hustles out there. You can set your hours, teach subjects you love, and earn anywhere from $15 to over $100 an hour based on your expertise, as reported by CNBC. But here is where you can double your impact. Every lesson you teach is packed with tips, examples, and insights that students want more of. Instead of letting that value fade away, turn it into content. Think ebooks, online courses, printable worksheets, or quick YouTube tutorials. Students and their parents are not just looking for help with homework. They want tools that set them up for long-term success. By creating resources that build on what you teach, you position yourself as someone who truly understands their goals and challenges. You could record your most popular explanations, bundle your best worksheets, or design bite-sized courses parents can buy anytime. It is a natural extension of the work you are already doing without needing to start from scratch. Bonus Tip: Focus on what you do best and niche down. The more specific your focus, the easier it becomes to build a brand that people trust and remember. Event Planning + Photography Event planning is one of those side hustles that feels both fun and rewarding. You get to put your organizational skills to work while creating experiences people will never forget. According to an article by Entrepreneur, event planners typically charge anywhere from $12 to $150 an hour, depending on the project. If you have an eye for detail and a creative touch, pairing event planning with photography can open even more doors. From weddings to corporate parties, every event needs both seamless coordination and beautiful documentation. Clients who want a stress-free experience are looking for someone who can "handle it" without needing a team of ten. Offering both services makes you an easy yes. You can make it even easier by offering bundled packages that include event planning and photography. If you prefer to specialize in just one area, teaming up with venues, florists, or caterers to cross-promote services can work just as well. Either way, the real currency is trust. When clients trust you to plan their biggest moments, they will trust you to capture them too. Bonus Tip: Build a portfolio that shows both your photography and event styling skills. When people can see the full range of what you offer, landing larger, higher-paying gigs becomes a whole lot easier. Freelance Writing + Social Media Management If you have a way with words, freelance writing is a side hustle that can grow fast. Nearly every industry needs writers for blog posts, articles, or web content. According to a study by freelance writer Elna Cain, about 42% of freelance writers earn between $2,000 and $5,000 a month, often working just 10 hours a week. Adding social media management to the mix is a natural next step. Businesses need more than just excellent writing—they need someone who knows how to share that content the right way. If you can write strong blog posts and then turn them into social captions, newsletter blurbs, and website updates, you instantly become more valuable. Start by writing blog posts or articles for a client. Once you understand their voice and goals, offer to repurpose that content across LinkedIn, Instagram, or their email newsletters. The client gets consistent messaging across platforms, and you get to charge more for delivering a complete solution instead of just one piece of the puzzle. Bonus Tip: Position yourself as a content strategist, not just a freelance writer. Clients will pay a premium for someone who understands how all their content fits together, not just someone who hands off a few drafts. When your side hustles connect, everything feels easier. You are not starting from scratch with every new gig. Your skills build on each other, your work flows faster, and your income grows without doubling your hours. Find a combo that fits what you are already good at, stick with it, and watch how much easier it gets to hit your goals. Rooting for you!

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  • doge-accounts-for-nearly-half-of-all-2025

    DOGE Accounts For Nearly Half Of All 2025

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  • 7-spring-journaling-prompts-for-career-clarity-and-life-alignment-spring-is-natures-way-of-reminding-us-that-its-never-too-late-to-begin-again-according-to-the-purposescaping-execut

    7 Spring Journaling Prompts For Career Clarity And Life Alignment Spring is nature’s way of reminding us that it’s never too late to begin again. According to the Purposescaping executive coaching philosophy, what you metaphorically plant in spring could potentially take root and grow strong and healthy in future seasons. So now is the perfect time to reassess your goals and realign your strategy before you seed something new in your life. But for high-achievers who’ve spent years building successful careers, clarity isn’t always easy. In fact, the more accomplished you are, the more complex your decisions can become. As you progress in your career, the work is no longer about finding yourself. Instead the task becomes reconnecting to the authentic parts of yourself that may have gotten quiet. During a recent workshop I helped a room full of leaders and creatives uncover their next best step. I guided them through a series of exercises to dial back the noise of hustle so they could tune in to themselves, their energy, and what’s been calling them for years. If you’re ready to step into alignment this season, here are 7 journaling prompts to help you clear mental clutter and reclaim your direction. 1. What activities bring me energy — even when I’m tired? Notice what lights you up. As I write in The Rest Revolution, now is the time to prioritize energy-generating activities and energy-generating relationships. Energy is data. If you’ve been ignoring your energy, you’ve been ignoring the most honest part of you. 2. What do people consistently thank me for — that I haven’t fully owned? Woman Smiling and Expressing Gratitude During a Conversation A woman smiles warmly with her hand on her chest, More getty Often, your zone of genius is hiding in plain sight. When others see your gifts before you do, it’s a sign to take a closer look. 3. Where am I currently leaking energy or betraying myself? Are there meetings, clients, habits, or roles that drain you? Getting clear on what needs to go is just as important as knowing what to pursue. 4. Which of the four seasonal priorities do I need to focus on right now? The word of Important on adhesive note paper The word of Important on adhesive note paper getty When it comes to your career, fulfillment is elusive when you’re out of alignment with your income, influence, impact, or inner joy. Your clarity deepens when you pick a lens. Every choice doesn’t have to serve every goal, but it should serve your current priority. 5. What have I already built that I’m not leveraging? You have built brand equity in your network, in your results, in your reputation. What doors do you have available to you that you’ve yet to walk through? 6. What expired dreams am I still clinging to? Sometimes the dream that got you here isn’t the one that will take you forward. Letting go doesn’t mean failure. Sometimes letting go is a way to make room for a more current and authentic aspiration. 7. Who do I want to be on the other side of this season? Creating a vision for the future will help you guide your actions in the present moment. Think about the most aligned version of you. How do they speak, move, lead, and show up? How can you embody more of that vision? Spring is an invitation to realign, and you already have more access to clear strategy than you think. Use these journaling prompts to set yourself up powerfully for the remainder of the year.

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    Kailera jumped the weight loss miracle-drug line by licensing four clinical-stage obesity therapies from China, which is quickly emerging as a powerhouse pharmaceutical R&D center

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  • exclusive-wall-street-sours-on-trump

    Exclusive: Wall Street Sours On Trump

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    China Retaliates Against Trump’s Tariffs With 34% Duties On U.S. Goods

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    Inside The AI Arms Race Between Fraudsters And Vis

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  • the-best-side-hustles-let-you-work-on-your-own-schedule-from-your-laptop-without-a-steep-learning-curve-photo-d3sign-via-getty-images

    The best side hustles let you work on your own schedule, from your laptop, without a steep learning curve. (Photo: d3sign via Getty Images)

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  • fourteen-generations-of-the-beretta-family-sold-firearms-heres-why-the-head-of-the-15th-is-moving-beyond-adding-bullets-scopes-and-even-clothing

    Fourteen generations of the Beretta family sold firearms. Here’s why the head of the 15th is moving beyond, adding bullets, scopes and even clothing.

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    Are Small Businesses About To Lose A Financial Lifeline? Brandon Kochkodin Financing business concept Supporters of the CDFI Fund say every dollar put in generates eight dollars of economic impact. getty The Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI), a small but long-running program in the U.S. Treasury that helps finance small businesses in underserved communities, is on the chopping block. Again. On March 14, President Trump signed an executive order to cut or scale back seven federal programs, including the CDFI Fund. The order tells agencies to shrink operations as much as legally possible, keeping only what the law strictly requires. This isn’t Trump’s first attempt to curtail the CDFI. In his 2018 budget blueprint, he called for eliminating its grants entirely, arguing that private lenders had plenty of capital and didn’t need government help to serve these communities. That effort failed. Now, with the stroke of a pen, he’s taking another shot. What that means in practice isn’t yet clear. An executive order alone can only go so far, and Congress would have to step in to shut the program down entirely. But lobbyists for CDFI groups and members of the bipartisan congressional CDFI caucus aren’t waiting to find out. They’re already pushing back, warning that any move to weaken the fund could make life much harder for small businesses in underserved communities. The CDFI was created through the Riegle Community Development and Regulatory Improvement Act of 1994. Congress allocates money to the CDFI Fund, which then awards it as grants to lenders that focus on underserved communities. These lenders don’t have to pay the money back, but they do have to meet certain requirements, like keeping loan terms fair and proving they serve businesses that struggle to get financing elsewhere. The fund supports a range of programs, including small business lending, affordable housing development, and financial services for low-income communities. The idea is to blend public funding with private capital, encouraging banks and investors to put more money into areas traditional lenders often ignore. Supporters say it’s a cost-effective way to drive economic growth without creating another government-run lending program. Since its inception, the CDFI, according to its website, has awarded more than $8 billion to the 1,432 community development financial institutions (CDFIs), which comprises community development organizations and participating financial institutions. Additionally, it has allocated $81 billion in tax credits through the New Markets Tax Credit Program and guaranteed nearly $3 billion in bonds through the CDFI Bond Guarantee Program. For fiscal year 2025, it will have $324 million available for grants. Supporters such as the Opportunity Finance Network, a lobbying group for CDFIs, contend that outlay will ultimately drive more than $2.5 billion in economic activity with almost no loan defaults. That kind of return has made the program hard to argue against, drawing support from both sides of the aisle and stretching from Main Street to Wall Street. Small banks love it because it helps them grow their business by giving them money to make more loans. Big banks like JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America and Goldman Sachs have chipped in money too (just over $2 billion, according to the Milken Institute), touting it as part of their efforts to give back to underserved communities. Senators Mark Warner, a Democrat from Virginia, and Mike Crapo, a Republican from Idaho, put out a joint statement on March 16 opposing the executive order. They lead the Senate’s Community Development Finance Caucus and say the CDFI Fund has been a success, claiming that it pulls in at least $8 in private funding for every $1 from the government. Hilda Kennedy, founder and president of AmPac Business Capital, a CDFI based in Ontario, California, sees the fund as a lifeline for small businesses that banks and traditional lenders overlook. Since 2018, AmPac has received $5.2 million in awards from the program, money she says has had a game-changing impact on the local community. She says the program flew under the radar for years, but the pandemic made its importance clear. When banks were overwhelmed and struggling to serve their customers, small businesses with 20 or fewer employees were left scrambling. It was CDFI lenders that stepped in and got the small businesses the financing they needed through the Paycheck Protection Program. But there’s more at stake, says Kennedy. Without the program, many small businesses wouldn’t just lose access to capital, they’d lose the hands-on support that CDFIs offer. “Quite frankly, banks and traditional lenders rely on CDFIs to provide that support to local small businesses,” says Kennedy. Bolstering Kennedy’s argument is a 2014 study by the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland which examined whether the CDFI Fund effectively boosts lending in low-income communities. It found that for every dollar in grants awarded, 45 cents was loaned out in the first year, with that number growing to $1.60 within three years. The study also concluded that CDFI-supported lenders increased their overall lending by about 3% compared to similar institutions that did not receive funding. Researchers noted that this growth suggests the program successfully channels capital into underserved areas, reinforcing the argument that CDFIs help bridge gaps where traditional banks hesitate to lend. Not everyone thinks it’s so clear-cut. The lenders benefiting from the program have every reason to talk their book, and critics argue that handing out grants creates a moral hazard. Lenders may be incentivized to issue more loans just to attract more funding. Beyond that, proponents arguing for the program’s effectiveness rely on the idea of a multiplier effect, where each grant dollar supposedly generates far more in economic activity. That may be true, but the math is fuzzy. One 2019 study from researchers at Florida Gulf Coast University and West Virginia University found little evidence that CDFI funding significantly boosts small business activity. Researchers examined the program’s impact and concluded, “For the CDFI programme, we do not find any consistent evidence of an effect on new business activity.” However, they noted that the lack of measurable impact might be due to the relatively small size of the funding rather than a failure of the program itself. If the grants are too limited, they may not be enough to drive large-scale economic change. Joel Griffith, a policy advisor at Advancing American Freedom, a conservative think tank founded by former Vice President Mike Pence, sees the CDFI Fund as unnecessary. He argues that access to financing simply isn’t a major concern for most small business owners, citing polling data from the National Federation of Independent Business showing that hardly anyone lists it as a pressing issue. The vast majority of small business lending, he says, already happens through private banks or the Small Business Administration, making the CDFI Fund redundant. More than that, he worries the CDFI Fund is just another example of “cronyism,” funneling taxpayer dollars to politically connected lenders. What happens next is unclear. The Treasury Department, which oversees the CDFI Fund, has until March 21 to review its programs and cut those without statutory authorization. Griffith doesn’t expect the CDFI Fund to disappear anytime soon, whether he likes it or not. “There’s significant limitations to what the executive branch can do without Congress actually getting on board,” he says.

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    Judge Blocks Trump Administration From Deporting Georgetown University Researcher—For Now

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    Cristiano Ronaldo in Thailand

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    What It Means To Be Wealthy In Greece The Acropolis of Athens, Greece The Acropolis and the Parthenon Temple, Athens Greece getty Greece is more than just a holiday destination—it's an incredible place to call home, especially for those seeking financial and lifestyle advantages. It has breathtaking islands, world-class beaches, and thriving cities. Still, beyond its natural beauty, Greece boasts attractive incentives for expats, including a flat tax scheme for ultra-high-net-worth individuals, a streamlined golden visa program, and a digital nomad visa for remote workers. Plus, the cost of living remains significantly lower than in a lot of Western Europe, making luxury living more accessible. Here's what it means to be wealthy in Greece. Being Wealthy in Greece Is All About the Landscape CNTraveler listed Greece as the 10th best country in the world in the Readers' Choice Awards 2024, citing "postcard-perfect Santorini, mythology-steeped Mykonos, and massive Crete, with its reemerging viticultural scene." TripAdvisor recently labeled the latter as having the best of the best beaches—Elafonissi in Crete, famed for its pink sand and crystal clear waters, which are as attractive to hikers as to water sport enthusiasts. Aerial View Of Elafonissi Beach On The Greek Island Of Crete Elafonissi beach on the Greek island of Crete—Trip Advisor's Best of The Best Beach Winner 2025 DeFodi Images via Getty Images A record number of visitors are seeking out Greece's more under-explored islands, such as Paros, and other favorites like Hydra, Ios, Tinos, and Zakynthos. And that's not forgetting Athens itself. Indeed, CNTraveler noted the Athens Riviera as one of the 25 best places to visit in Europe in 2025. Just 30 minutes from Athens city center, this 40-mile stretch of coastline is undergoing a resurgence, driven by the completion of Europe's most extensive coastal park, planned for the end of 2025, and a raft of the most fabulous hotel chains setting up home. So, what might it mean to live in Greece, and how would your salary and wealth stack up against the country's averages and the cost of living? Being Wealthy In Greece–Greece's Average Annual Salary As reported by Euronews, workers in Greece have an average annual salary of $18,600 (€17,707), which is lower than the EU average of around $30,000 (€28,217). As a comparison, Greece's average is much lower than the highest in European countries, in Switzerland, $90,000 (€85,582), in Iceland, $56,600 (€53,885), or in Norway, $48,100 (€45,798), for instance. The lowest average annual salary in the EU is in Bulgaria and Turkey, where both are around $9,500 (€9,000). Being Wealthy In Greece–Greece's Cost Of Living When taken globally, a comparison of the cost of living in Greece is lower than it is in many other countries such as the U.S., the U.K., and France: France: $1,200 per month for a single person, not including rent. U.S.: $1,166 per month for a single person, not including rent. Canada: $1023 per month for a single person, not including rent. Italy: $905 per month for a single person, not including rent. Greece: $832 per month for a single person, not including rent. Malta: $801 per month for a single person, not including rent. Spain: $731 per month for a single person, not including rent. Thailand: $650 per month for a single person, not including rent. Portugal: $592 per month for a single person, not including rent. Furthermore, when you factor in rent, it becomes clear that Greece offers more for your dollar per square meter. Accommodation is almost 40% cheaper to rent in Greece than in France, and the cost of living is nearly 21% cheaper. Being Wealthy In Greece–A Flat Tax For UHNWIs Greece has been gradually luring ultra-high-net-worth individuals, most notably with a flat tax of $105,000 per year (€100,000). This is on global income for individuals who transfer their tax residence to Greece, provided they invest in Greek assets with a minimum value of $525,150 (€500,000). Over the past ten years, the number of millionaires in Greece has increased by 14%, and there are now 64,700 millionaires in the country. There are 105 individuals with over 100 million dollars and eight billionaires. They mostly choose to live in Attica, Mykonos, and Crete. Being Wealthy In Greece—Getting A Golden Visa Greece has recently seen a rise in American applicants for golden visas, with monthly government figures increasing from 302 to 383 by November 2024. Greece has one of the fastest golden visa processes, granting residency within 60 days. Plus, it's an attractive scheme as residency holders don't need to live in Greece to maintain their visa status, there is an unlimited expiry date, and the residence applies to the whole family (married spouses, children under 21 years old, and parents of the principal applicant and spouse). After seven years, residents on this golden visa can also apply for citizenship. Now, as per Henley & Partners, it's possible to get a golden visa by investing in real estate in several ways, such as either investing $262,500 (€250,000) to restore a listed building, say, or $420,000 (€400,000) for a property of minimum 120 meters squared. This figure jumps to $840,000 (€800,000) for properties in Athens, Thessaloniki or islands with more than 3,100 residents. The government recently increased the amounts because there have been issues with golden visa schemes leading to a hike in real estate prices for locals, particularly in Spain, where the government recently ended its golden visa scheme. In Greece, you could also take part in other investment schemes to obtain a golden visa, such as investing $525,150 (€500,000) in a public limited real estate investment company that invests exclusively in Greece or purchasing the same amount of Greek government bonds with a remaining maturity of at least three years, through a Greek credit institution. Being Wealthy In Greece—Getting A Digital Nomad Visa Many EU countries offer visas for digital nomads working for foreign companies or freelancers; Greece is no exception. You can live in Greece for one year on a digital nomad visa, provided you meet the minimum monthly income requirement of $3,676 (€3,500) per month, and your clients are not in the country. It is also possible to extend the visa for one further year. It's clear then that Greece is an attractive proposition for expats, delivering an affordable lifestyle, sometimes through a digital nomad visa or a golden visa. Plus, what it means to be wealthy in Greece is significantly lower than in other European countries and the U.S.

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    This Fintech’s Visa Card Keeps Grandpa From Blowing His Nest Egg True Link Financial offers a debit card with spending controls expressly designed for people with dementia, other cognitive deficits or addiction issues. It also manages special needs trusts. In November 2020, Alana Peralez received the sort of emergency call she’d been dreading. Her then 84-year-old dad, a retired aerospace engineer who’d lived alone in his Arizona house since her mom died in 2006, had suffered a stroke. After months of rehab in a nursing home and then a group home, he still had problems with mobility and completing complex tasks. So in April of 2021, they agreed he should move into an assisted living apartment complex near his old neighborhood and friends–a good housing option for someone who needs help with certain daily activities, such as cooking, or managing medicines, but values his independence and doesn’t need skilled nursing or constant supervision. Peralez, a 42-year-old economic development specialist who lives with her husband and daughter in Los Angeles, was now managing her dad’s finances, as well as his care, from a distance. Even before his stroke, she’d worried he was starting to fall for scams and junk products pitched by telemarketers and door-to-door salesmen. Now she wanted something akin to assisted living for his spending. “He needs more help but he still wants some control of his life. He’s an adult,’’ she says. After some online research, her husband found the solution: a prepaid Visa debit card that allows a relative or other trusted administrator to monitor the cardholder’s transactions and set up dozens of individual spending controls limiting the size and nature of purchases and how and where they occur—for example, blocking certain charges from telemarketers or online. Attempted charges by known fraudsters are automatically blocked, while administrators can get alerts when unusual spending has been detected or transactions declined. Both the cardholder and the administrator have to consent to the arrangement, but the administrator doesn’t need to hold a financial power of attorney, since the card is funded with discrete deposits—not all of a holder’s assets. The unique card is offered by True Link Financial, a 12-year-old San Francisco-based financial technology company, which this past week was named to the Forbes Fintech 50 list for 2025–on the strength of its mission and recent growth and profitability. After scrambling to survive in its earlier years, True Link has been in the black for the past two years, netting $2 million on $30 million in revenue in 2024, says CEO and cofounder Kai Stinchcombe. Over the years, Khosla Ventures, QED Investors and Centana Growth Partners, among others, have poured $60 million into the startup. In its last fundraise, in January 2022, during the height of the fintech boom, True Link raised $12 million at a $144 million valuation. Since then, its revenue has doubled, Stinchcombe says, and it’s now able to fund growth internally. He and cofounder Claire McDonnell still own about 30 percent of the company, Forbes estimates. The 100-employee operation reached this point with just two tightly related core products: It currently oversees more than 150,000 individual debit cards for users with cognitive disabilities and for those recovering from (or in the throes of) addiction. True Link charges a $12 a month fee for an individual stand-alone True Link Visa Prepaid Card, with the card bringing in about two thirds of its revenue. The other third comes from True Link’s growing business as an SEC-registered investment advisor, managing nearly $1.5 billion in individual and pooled “special needs” trusts–these trusts are typically funded by families and designed to pay for extras for disabled individuals without jeopardizing their eligibility for Medicaid or certain other government benefits, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI). True Link charges 1% of assets to manage trusts, which are held at Charles Schwab and allocated to low-cost ETFs. But what it’s really selling here is knowledge of what can and can’t be done with special needs trusts, plus a handy way to supervise and document how the money is spent through its debit cards. A 56-year-old television writer based in Los Angeles, who asked not to be named, says he took over managing his sister’s special needs trust in 2019, after finding out that his father had been embezzling from it for gambling. “Because of what my dad did, I wanted to do everything the right way,” he says. A lawyer advised him to use True Link and its prepaid card. A set amount–which he decides with his sister, who suffers from aphasia– is transferred to her debit card weekly. An added advantage: The consistency and structure has led her to become more financially responsible, he says. Stinchcombe, 42, is the son of two professors, both prominent sociologists. He double majored in history and computer science, but dropped out of a Ph.D. program in political science at Stanford to organize and run a network of progressive policy campus organizations. He then got involved in two other for-profit startups (a sales management platform and a redistricting analytics software company), before his grandmother’s Alzheimer’s set him on his current path. As a retired church school teacher living on a small pension, she’d long made lots of tiny donations, giving $10 each to three or four causes she supported each month. But now, with her short term memory gone, she became vulnerable to unethical charitable solicitors, sometimes getting calls from, and donating via credit card, to the same charity multiple times a day. She started to fall for other pitches, too—for example, spending $6,000 on a wildly overpriced hearing aid after receiving a mailing offering a free hearing checkup at the mall, Stinchcombe says. When Stinchcombe called his grandmother’s bank for help, he ran into what he says is still a standard bank response. “Either she's mentally competent, in which case she's responsible for the transactions she authorizes, or she's not mentally competent, in which case she can't authorize a transaction and we have to close the account.” So he went looking for a niche card issuer which would meet his family’s needs and found there simply wasn’t one. ”I couldn’t shake the idea that this was a solution that should exist,’’ he says. He began discussing the problem–and the potential opportunity–with McDonnell, a San Francisco friend who also had a grandmother with dementia, as well as a background in nonprofit consulting and experience building a wellness app. They were part of Y Combinator’s summer of 2013 incubator class and launched the card later that year. “Our first year target was 50 customers and we missed it,’’ says Stinchcombe. While many of the VCs they pitched were skeptical the idea could ever be profitable, the duo did attract some big name supporters (though not huge dollars) early on. For example, current Y Combinator CEO Garry Tan, along with Alexis Ohanian, his then partner in Initialized Capital Management, invested in a $5 million seed round in 2015. Without bundles of cash for a consumer marketing push, Stinchcombe and McDonnell spread the word through social media, geriatric care managers and senior housing providers. In 2016, after a planned funding round fell through, Stinchcombe figured they’d be out of business in six months unless they learned to live within their means. Among other things, they put off the design of a better-looking website in favor of keeping their clunky but functional one. By 2017, the company had a positive cash flow from its debit card. That’s when QED cofounder Frank Rotman, who now sits on True Link’s board, led an $8 million round. He wasn’t particularly focused, he says, on whether it had a big potential market. “If you’re an early stage investor, what you’re looking for is a problem statement for which the company can be the solution,’’ he explains. There is certainly a problem–and a big one. Financial fraud against the elderly has been exploding. About seven million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s, the most common cause of dementia, and barring some medical breakthrough, that number will grow as Baby Boomers age. But there’s an even bigger potential market–those who have started to show signs of cognitive decline, even if they haven’t gotten (and may never get) a formal diagnosis. In fact, financial losses are often the first sign there’s a problem, experts say. A 2023 retrospective study found that in the eight years prior to a dementia diagnosis, the median wealth in the predementia group dropped to less than half that of control households: $104,000, compared to $217,000. Both lower pre-diagnosis income and reduced financial judgement contribute to this decline, researchers concluded at a conference sponsored last year by the MIT AgeLab and AARP. Truth is, it’s a fraught issue and solutions aren’t so obvious or readily accepted by elders. “Our customers are sort of, correctly, not early adopters,’’ Stinchcombe dryly observes. True Link’s founders themselves repeatedly adjusted course before arriving at their card’s current configuration. Early on, they switched from a credit card model to a pre-funded debit card. Why? “We didn’t want to decline anyone who had bad credit and we didn’t want to make money on interest because somebody forgot to pay their credit card bill,’’ Stinchcombe explains. (As a fintech, True Link relies on St, Paul, Minn.-based Sunrise Banks to actually issue the Visa cards.) Perhaps the most intriguing change: With a background of working with machine learning models, Stinchcomb at first believed the key to allowing the right spending would rest on building advanced algorithms. “The thing that we learned is that basically the problems are pretty easy to spot. It’s not this sort of advanced magical thing. It’s like, hey, limit (charitable) contributions to 50 bucks a month. You don’t need AI for that,’’ he says. “What you want is predictability. So let’s say your son is a recovering addict. You’re in a sober situation, you’re supposed to come right home after work. So any transaction after 5 P.M. should not be going on. And no cash, no bars or liquor stores.” An algorithm, with its mysterious workings, is less understandable, predictable and appealing to families than rules they can set and fine tune themselves. Early on, McDonnell, who served as president of True Link until October of 2023, handled customer service requests herself. That helped the two founders build understanding of the sorts of dilemmas families faced and what spending controls they might need. “Every individual is unique, but we probably have seen the same issue enough times to say (to families), `Here’s what you want to click,’’ says Stinchcombe. “Once you have Alzheimer’s you might end up with a hundred magazine subscriptions–that’s something we saw in a client. Or you might lose track of how many dietary supplements you’re buying on TV, or you might see a great deal for one garden gnome and end up with 200 garden gnomes…We have a client who was loaning a hundred dollars every day to his housekeeper, which is a totally reasonable thing to do, but not something you should do every day.” In 2018, the company introduced its investment arm, True Link Financial Advisors. There was a learning curve in that business, too. In 2022, without admitting liability, True Link agreed to pay $200,000 and Stinchcombe $20,000 in civil money penalties to settle a Securities & Exchange Commission finding that they caused violations of the antifraud provisions of the federal securities laws. The case stemmed from True Link’s management of certain pooled special needs trusts for Synergy Settlement Services. The SEC alleged Synergy led individuals with disabilities into believing that their funds were being managed by a nonprofit, when they weren’t–a violation of federal rules for Medicaid and SSI benefits. True Link had deferred to Synergy on how agreements were structured and shouldn’t have, Stinchcombe tells Forbes. “It’s not a way that we would defer now,” he said. “Now we would be a little more inflexible… we feel like we have the expertise where we can say the right way to do this is our way.” (Synergy itself denied wrongdoing, but was recently ordered by a Federal judge in the Middle District of Florida to pay $400,000 in civil penalties and $44,000 for net profits gained as a result of the alleged conduct.) In July 2020, True Link completed its biggest fundraising round–a $35 million Series B at a $110 million valuation. “We spent our whole Series B on scaling up growth that didn’t work,” admits Stinchcombe, adding that the company hired too many salespeople in what turned out to be a mistaken belief that they would goose growth. “I wish we had spent the money slower and more carefully, and had been more patient to let customers find us at their own pace, rather than working so hard to chase them.” As for future plans, Stinchcombe’s so far unrealized ambition is to sell the debit card as a white label product to banks–a solution the banks could offer to families distraught about grandma’s out of control charitable charges or garden gnome purchases. “I don’t want to invite everybody to compete with us,’’ Stinchcombe says. “But ultimately, I think if the financial world understood how big a problem this is, there would be a lot more attention to this type of service.”

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    Calming Advice For A Chaotic Stock Market

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    How To Accelerate Your Job Hunt Using AI Tools AI robot using laptop to job hunt. AI tools can accelerate your job hunt. Feeling stuck in an endless job hunt? From crafting the perfect resume to writing countless cover letters, the traditional job search process can feel overwhelming. According to the Labor Department, the number of unemployed Americans searching for work for at least six months has increased by more than 50% since the end of 2022. Most of those looking for work are in high-paying white-collar jobs across industries like technology, law, and engineering. The good news is that innovative AI tools can streamline every stage of your job search. In a recent survey from ResumeBuilder, 18% of job seekers used ChatGPT as part of their job hunt. The data shows that AI users received interview requests at a higher rate and achieved better salary outcomes during negotiations. By strategically leveraging AI tools, you can dramatically improve your chances of landing interviews and standing out from a sea of other qualified candidates. Using AI as Your Job Hunt Advisor Before tackling specific job applications, AI tools can serve as your personal job search advisor to help define your action plan. AI assistants can analyze your background, skills, and goals to suggest potential career options and create actionable job hunt strategies. Simply provide details about your current career status, education, skills, industry preferences, and priorities, and AI can generate personalized job search recommendations. Some examples include: JobSearch.Coach: Uses curated advice from hiring managers and recruiters COACH: Uses a career coaching chatbot that offers structured career development activities Coach Me Up: Uses large language modeling AI to provide personalized advice and guidance The key is to use AI’s job hunt suggestions as a starting point for deeper reflection, not as definitive answers. While AI can identify patterns and possibilities you may not have considered, you still need to evaluate whether those career paths align with your interests and values. Maximizing Your Online Job Hunt Presence In today's job market, your digital footprint is crucial to your job search success. Professional networking platforms now use AI algorithms to match job seekers with relevant opportunities. Understanding how to optimize your profiles for these algorithms can significantly improve your job hunt results. For example, AI tools can help optimize your LinkedIn profile, ensuring it aligns with current best practices and increases visibility to recruiters. These tools can suggest improvements to your headline, summary, and experience sections while maintaining your authentic voice. LinkedIn even has its own AI-powered writing assistant that can share personalized suggestions for your profile to help you stand out and get noticed. Optimizing Your Resume for Today's Job Hunt AI tools can help craft and refine your resume in several powerful ways: ATS Optimization: Analyzes job descriptions and suggests relevant keywords to help your resume pass through applicant tracking systems (ATS) Smart Comparison: Leverages tools to compare your resume against specific job listings and generate optimization recommendations Achievement Focus: Transforms standard job descriptions into compelling achievement statements that capture attention Quantifiable Impact: Helps articulate your accomplishments with clear, measurable results instead of just listing job responsibilities Preparing for AI-Enhanced Interviews As companies evolve their hiring practices, many now incorporate powerful AI technologies to evaluate potential employees, including AI-powered video interviews, automated skills assessments, and predictive analytics for candidate evaluation. Preparing for these AI-enhanced interviews requires a different approach than traditional job search preparation. Practice with AI interview simulation tools to understand common patterns and improve your responses while maintaining authenticity. Several platforms now offer realistic practice environments to help you prepare for AI-driven interviews: InterviewPrep.ai: Simulates behavioral and technical interviews with industry-specific questions and provides real-time feedback on your responses HireVue Practice: Offers mock interviews that mirror the actual HireVue platform used by many Fortune 500 companies Yoodli: Uses AI to analyze your speech patterns, filler words, and pacing during practice interviews Interviewer.AI: Provides customized interview simulations based on the specific role and industry you're targeting Pramp: Focuses on technical interviews with peer-to-peer practice and AI-driven feedback Advanced Job Hunt Techniques Using AI Modern job search strategies extend beyond traditional application methods. AI tools can help you: Track and manage your job applications through smart organizing systems Set up automated job alerts based on sophisticated matching criteria Analyze company culture through AI-powered sentiment analysis of reviews Identify emerging job market trends in your industry Prepare personalized networking messages at scale These advanced AI capabilities transform the job search from a reactive process to a proactive strategy, allowing you to make data-driven decisions about where to focus your efforts and how to position yourself in the market. Modern Job Hunt Strategies for AI-Powered Success While AI tools can dramatically accelerate your job hunt, success ultimately depends on balancing technological efficiency and human authenticity. The key is to let AI handle repetitive job search tasks—like initial resume optimization and job matching—while you focus on the elements that truly differentiate you as a candidate. By thoughtfully leveraging AI while showcasing your unique experiences, insights, and enthusiasm, you can create a more efficient and effective path to your next career opportunity.

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    U.S. Stock Futures Inch Up After Lutnick Signals Flexibility On Tariffs Siladitya RayMar 5, 2025, U.S. stock futures climbed early Wednesday—after dropping to their lowest levels since before the November election on the previous day—as Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick signaled President Donald Trump was open to a deal that would roll back some of the tariffs imposed on neighbors Canada and Mexico. President Trump Announces TSMC Investment Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick signaled that [+] President Donald Trump may be open to making a deal with Canada and Mexico on the tariffs issue. The Washington Post via Getty Images Key Facts The benchmark S&P 500 index futures were up around 0.56% to 5,821 points in pre-market trading early on Wednesday morning, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq futures rose around 0.7% to 20,542 points—a day after closing at their lowest level since election day. Dow futures—which closed at its lowest level since mid-January on Tuesday—also rose more than 0.52% to 42,817 points in early trading. The pre-market bump came after Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick’s appearance on Fox Business on Tuesday evening, where he appeared to signal that the Trump administration was flexible on tariffs imposed against Canada and Mexico. In the interview, Lutnick claimed both Canadian and Mexican officials were “on the phone with me all day today trying to show that they'll do better,” in dealing with Trump’s complaints about tackling cross-border flows of fentanyl and other opioid drugs into the U.S. The commerce secretary then said Trump was listening to this “because, you know, he’s very, very fair and very reasonable,” and suggested the president was going to “work something out with them.” Get Forbes Breaking News Text Alerts: We’re launching text message alerts so you'll always know the biggest stories shaping the day’s headlines. Text “Alerts” to (201) 335-0739 or sign up here. What Tariff Changes Did Lutnick Suggest Were On The Cards? Without offering details, the commerce secretary said, “So I think he's [Trump] going to work something out with them.” Lutnick noted that this does not mean the tariffs would be paused, but rather if both countries agree to “do more,” Trump will meet them “in the middle somewhere.” Lutnick signaled that this compromise could involve the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement—which the previous Trump administration signed with Canada and Mexico—saying: “The president is considering giving you relief, if you live under those rules. And if you haven't lived under those rules, well, then you have got to pay the tariff.” The commerce secretary added that an announcement on this matter would probably come on Wednesday. What Have Canadian And Mexican Authorities Said? Mexican officials have not yet publicly commented on Lutnick’s remarks. Canada’s Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly was asked about it in a BBC interview and said: “We know when it comes to the different secretaries of the Trump administration, they can say many things, but at the end of the day, the only one that really takes a decision is President Trump.” Joly then said many of Trump’s staffers can be “talking to us and having different types of conversations, but even they don’t really know what the president wants.” She added no one from the Trump administration contacted either the Canadian government or the Mexican government on Monday “regarding the Tariff issue.” Contra Lunick’s interview aired shortly before Trump delivered an address to Congress where he strongly defended his use of tariffs. The president told Congress that the likes of “the European Union, China, Brazil, India, Mexico and Canada,” have used “tariffs against us for decades, and now it’s our turn to start using them.” Trump then added: “They’re about protecting the soul of our country. Tariffs are about making America rich again and making America great again.”

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    The 20 ‘European Best Destinations’ For 2025: Monaco Tops New Report The European Best Destinations organization has revealed its highly anticipated report on the trendiest places in Europe to visit this year, based on a record number of votes from more than 1.2 million travelers across 158 countries. Selected from 500-plus destinations, the new, tempting list includes hidden gems, exclusive coastal towns, preserved nature escapes, romantic getaways, city breaks, family vacations, exclusive islands and wellness retreats. The 20 shortlisted European Best Destinations were selected for their quality of life, sustainable development, year-round cultural offer, growth of popularity on social networks and their international recognition (winners of Smart tourism, EU Green Capital, UNESCO, Zero Carbon Emission Commitment, EU Capital of Culture, Blue Flags and more). ForbesThe 20 Best European Destinations In 2024: Marbella Tops Travel SurveyBy Cecilia Rodriguez Monaco tops the list with an unmatched 115,891 votes—98% of them by international travelers—making it the most globally-endorsed destination in the competition’s history. “This sun-soaked, five-star escape embodies everything discerning travelers seek in 2025: sustainable luxury, nature, wellness, gastronomy, conservation, sports activities and designer shopping,” EBD explained. Riga, Latvia’s capital, snared second place and was also selected as the Best Baltic Destination, followed by Dubrovnik & Cavtat in Croatia, Madrid, and Namur in Belgium in the first five places. With Amsterdam, Olhão in Portugal, Ascona in Italy, Bath in England, the sustainable luxury Greek island of Antipaxos, and Seville, Spain among others, the 2025 selection, according to EBD, “perfectly reflects modern travelers’ evolving desires—a mix of exclusive retreats, cultural treasures, romantic escapes and sun-kissed coastal gems. ForbesTravel Photographer Of The Year: Beautiful, Inspiring Award-Winning ImagesBy Cecilia Rodriguez From the majestic streets of Madrid to the crystal-clear waters of Antipaxos, from the cultural richness of Riga to the elegance of Monaco, this year’s selection proves that Europe remains the world’s most diverse and captivating continent for travel.” In partnership with more than 500 tourism offices in Europe and the EDEN Network (Sustainable Destinations awarded by the European Commission), European Best Destinations has billed itself as the most influential travel competition in Europe for the past 14 consecutive years. Monaco, elected European Best Destination 2025 Monaco has been elected The European Best Destination for 2025. EBD 1. Monaco, Best European Destination 2025 EBD’s top selection is the ultimate luxury and lifestyle escape and has been officially awarded the title of Best Destination in Europe 2025, a recognition voted by tourism professionals and travelers as the Must-See Destination of the Year. The famous city on the French Riviera leads the way in sustainable luxury travel, with a commitment to marine conservation, green tourism and eco-conscious urban development. Its victory reflects a growing traveler preference for destinations that seamlessly combine exclusivity with sustainability. The preferred destination for couples aged 25 to 45, Monaco has received more votes than any other Riviera destination since the competition’s inception. The principality’s blend of sustainability, luxury, culture, gastronomy, wellness, sport and year-round events makes it an exceptional experience for a romantic getaway, a family retreat or an exclusive escape. “Explore the historic charm of Monaco, marvel at the legendary Place du Casino, or unwind at the Larvotto seaside complex, where luxury meets the Mediterranean. Enjoy Michelin-starred dining, vibrant cultural events, and a commitment to sustainable tourism,” EBD recommends. City Hall Square in the Old Town of Riga, Latvia City Hall Square with House of the Blackheads and Saint Peter church in Old Town of Riga, Latvia getty 2. Riga, Latvia The #2 Best European Destination also won the tile of Hottest City Break 2025. Latvia’s capital combines historic charm with a modern, vibrant atmosphere, making it a favorite for globetrotters seeking an inspiring destination. Known as the "Paris of the North," Riga offers a rich blend of Art Nouveau architecture, nature, shopping, gastronomy and vibrant cultural events. Riga, Rising Star of the Baltics, was also voted best Baltic destination and has been gaining significant momentum on the European travel scene. Recognized as one of the Top 5 European Destinations in 2024, Riga saw a 14% increase in visitors, making it one of Europe’s most up-and-coming cities. In its Old Historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, medieval landmarks such as the House of the Blackheads and Riga Cathedral take you back in time. “For a taste of Riga’s artistic soul, explore the trendy Mieraiela district, brimming with artisan shops, galleries, and cozy cafés,” notes EBD. “Food lovers will find Riga a culinary haven, from its traditional Latvian dishes to its modern fine dining scene, while Riga Central Market offers a sensory journey through local flavors. In the evening, unwind at one of Riga’s many rooftop bars with stunning views of the city. Riga’s unique appeal lies in its harmonious blend of old and new. Visitors can relax by the tranquil Daugava River, take a stroll through the lush Kronvalda Park, or explore the Latvian National Museum of Art for a deep dive into the country’s heritage. The city also boasts a thriving nightlife. Whether you're visiting for the annual Riga Opera Festival or the enchanting Christmas markets, Riga promises unforgettable experiences year-round.” Dubrovnik, Fronting, The ,Adriatic ,Sea, Dubrovnik, the "Pearl of the Adriatic," is one of the Best European Destinations for 2025 EBD 3. Dubrovnik & Cavtat, Croatia Dubrovnik & the Hidden Luxury of Cavtat in Croatia were voted #3 Best European Destination. Dubrovnik, in the southern part of the country by the Adriatic Sea, is one of the most prominent tourist destinations of the Mediterranean. Known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," it has all the features to enchant visitors: ancient city walls, crystal-clear waters, and a rich cultural heritage. The old city of Dubrovnik, a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, baroque buildings and charming squares, is a UNESCO-listed site, a favorite for history lovers but also a top-tier luxury destination with five-star hotels, gourmet dining and exclusive island escapes. This year, Dubrovnik and Cavtat competed jointly, showcasing their unique blend of historic grandeur and peaceful exclusivity. Often dubbed the “New St. Tropez,” Cavtat is a rising star in sustainable luxury tourism, offering a retreat at its pristine beaches and elegant boutique hotels. With 24% of American travelers voting for Cavtat, it’s one of the best destinations for an affordable yet exclusive European escape. “Stroll along the famous city walls for breathtaking Adriatic views, explore Lovrijenac Fortress and the Rector’s Palace, or take a short boat ride to the island of Lokrum, a tranquil escape with lush gardens and hidden coves,” EBD advises. For ultimate exclusivity and luxury, visit Cavtat, a short drive from Dubrovnik. Awarded the title of Most Exclusive Destination in Europe, it offers a more intimate escape from the crowds. With its picturesque marina, elegant waterfront and charming historic town, it’s also home to the Most Beautiful Bay in Europe. For beach lovers, Dubrovnik’s coastline, from the sandy shores of Banje Beach to the crystal-clear waters of Sveti Jakov, offers plenty of alternativess for sunbathing, swimming and water sports. Pavement cafes in Madrid's Plaza Mayor People enjoying outdoor cafes in Madrid's Plaza Mayor getty 4. Madrid, Spain Madrid, made it to #4 of the Best Destinations in Europe for 2025. A city where tradition meets modernity, it’s an irresistible choice for travelers. Spain’s vibrant capital offers a unique blend of rich history, cutting-edge art, world-class dining, lively night life and an electric energy that never stops. “With trendy new hotspots, in 2025 Madrid is more alive than ever,” writes EBD. “Stroll through the iconic Gran Vía, a paradise for shopping and architecture lovers, or explore the historic Barrio de las Letras, brimming with literary history and charming streets. Art enthusiasts will be captivated by the Prado Museum, Reina Sofía Museum, and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum that form the world-famous ‘Golden Triangle of Art. “Madrid offers a rich gastronomic experience, from Michelin-starred restaurants to authentic tapas bars as well as trendy rooftop terraces. For those seeking special experiences, visit the lush El Retiro Park for a leisurely boat ride, catch a flamenco performance or enjoy the buzzing nightlife in neighborhoods like Malasaña and Chueca. Madrid’s lively calendar of events, including festivals like San Isidro or Design Week, ensures there’s always something exciting happening.” Panoramic View of Medieval Citadel in Namur, Belgium. Panoramic View of the Medieval Citadel in Namur, Belgium, from the River getty 5. Namur, Belgium Ranked 5th among the Best European Destinations 2025, Namur is experiencing a true renaissance, evolving into one of the most dynamic and forward-thinking destinations in Europe. A unique fusion of elegance and nature Namur, the capital of French-speaking Wallonia, has emerged as the perfect romantic and cultural getaway. Located at the confluence of the Meuse and Sambre rivers, it offers a mix of heritage, gastronomy and outdoor adventure. Particularly popular among culture lovers, nature enthusiasts and couples looking for a romantic escape. Namur has also been voted “Best City Break in Europe 2025” by travelers. Once a hidden gem, it’s now a thriving hub of innovation, sustainability and culture, attracting both travelers and investors attracted to a city on the rise. Namur stands out as one of the best cities to live in due to its green spaces, strong commitment to zero-carbon initiatives and thriving start-up ecosystem. With its boutique hotels, high-end gastronomic restaurants, and trendy bars, it’s also a Romantic & Cultural Getaway for 2025. The Next 5 European Best Destinations Bicycles parked next to the canal in Amsterdam, Holland Bicycles parked next to a canal in Amsterdam, Holland getty 6. Amsterdam, The Netherlands The Ultimate Year-Round Destination for Culture, Charm & Sustainability, Amsterdam, continues to offer a vibrant blend of heritage and innovation. “Wander its iconic canals, where 17th-century charm meets modern design, and explore neighborhoods like Jordaan and De Pijp, brimming with markets, boutiques and cozy cafés,” EBD notes. From spring tulip fields to summer festivals, autumn canal strolls, and winter’s magical light displays, Amsterdam invites visitors all year. Cycle through Vondelpark, savor local treats like stroopwafels and visit cultural landmarks including the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House. The city is also a hub for sustainable tourism, with a focus on green transportation and eco-friendly accommodations A street in the coastal town of Olhão, a hidden gem in Portugal's Algarve. The coastal town of Olhão, a hidden gem in Portugal's Algarve Shutterstock 7. Olhao, Portugal An Algarve Hidden Gem, Portugal’s coastal town of Olhão offers traditional charm and luxurious experiences. “Wander the cobbled streets of its historic Old Town, explore vibrant markets brimming with fresh seafood, and take a boat trip to the golden sands of nearby Barrier Islands like Armona and Culatra,” enthuses EBD. “Savor Olhão’s thriving culinary scene, from seafood cataplana to fine dining, paired with local wines. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the stunning Ria Formosa Natural Park, ideal for kayaking and birdwatching. With its relaxed vibe and rich culture, Olhão offers an unforgettable escape.” A couple enjoying a beautiful view of island Mljet, Croatia Visitors enjoying Mljet island in Croatia. This is part of Mljet National Park, the oldest protected marine area in the Mediterranean getty 8. Mljet Island, Croatia Croatia’s Green Pearl, Mljet Island, is a hidden gem with untouched nature, crystal-clear waters and peaceful ambiance for those seeking relaxation, adventure and authentic experiences. Its Mljet National Park, the oldest protected marine area in the Mediterranean, features Veliko and Malo Jezero, saltwater lakes surrounded by lush forests and pristine beaches such as Saplunara ideal for swimming, snorkeling and kayaking. “Hike or bike through the island's scenic trails and charming villages, and savor fresh seafood, local olive oil, and wines at cozy taverns,” writes EBD. “Known for its commitment to sustainability, Mljet offers a slower pace of life and a chance to reconnect with nature.” A colorful street in old town Lisbon, Portugal. A colorful street in old town Lisbon, Portugal Armando-Oliveira, EBD 9. Lisbon, Portugal The vibrant charm of Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, is found in its cobblestone streets, colorful tiles and breathtaking views that meet a dynamic cultural scene. Says EBD: “Stroll through historic neighborhoods like Alfama, with its soulful Fado music, and Baixa, home to grand plazas and lively Bairro Alto. Savor Lisbon’s culinary delights, from traditional dishes like bacalhau to the iconic pastéis de nata. Explore landmarks like the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, or ride Tram 28 to scenic viewpoints. Just beyond the city, golden beaches and Sintra’s fairytale landscapes await, making Lisbon the perfect blend of history, flavor, and adventure.” Aerial photo of Voutoumi Bay and beach in Antipaxos, Greece Aerial photo of Voutoumi Bay and beach in Antipaxos, Greece Shutterstock 10. Antipaxos, Greece This is one of Greece's Hidden Paradises for Serenity & Seaside Luxury On the small island of Antipaxos, a hidden gem in Greece about three kilometers south of Paxos, turquoise waters, untouched charm and serene luxury beckon. A short boat ride from Paxos, Antipaxos offers breathtaking beaches like Voutoumi and Vrika for swimming, snorkeling or sunbathing in peace. Indulge in the island’s renowned wines and fresh seafood at charming seaside tavernas, blending authentic flavors with stunning views. Wander scenic trails through olive groves and vineyards, offering vistas of the Ionian Sea. Whether for nature lovers or couples, Antipaxos promises a secluded and beautiful getaway. The Next 10 European Best Destinations For 2025 Include: 11. Dhermi, Albania 12. Bath, UK 13. Folegandros, Greece 14. Istanbul, Turkey 15. Eze, France 16. Ascona, Switzerland 17. Alesund, Norway 18. Cassis, France 19. Seville, Spain 20. Porto-Montenegro, Montenegro All 20 winners of this year’s

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    The 20 ‘European Best Destinations’ For 2025: Monaco Tops New Report The European Best Destinations organization has revealed its highly anticipated report on the trendiest places in Europe to visit this year, based on a record number of votes from more than 1.2 million travelers across 158 countries. Selected from 500-plus destinations, the new, tempting list includes hidden gems, exclusive coastal towns, preserved nature escapes, romantic getaways, city breaks, family vacations, exclusive islands and wellness retreats. The 20 shortlisted European Best Destinations were selected for their quality of life, sustainable development, year-round cultural offer, growth of popularity on social networks and their international recognition (winners of Smart tourism, EU Green Capital, UNESCO, Zero Carbon Emission Commitment, EU Capital of Culture, Blue Flags and more). ForbesThe 20 Best European Destinations In 2024: Marbella Tops Travel SurveyBy Cecilia Rodriguez Monaco tops the list with an unmatched 115,891 votes—98% of them by international travelers—making it the most globally-endorsed destination in the competition’s history. “This sun-soaked, five-star escape embodies everything discerning travelers seek in 2025: sustainable luxury, nature, wellness, gastronomy, conservation, sports activities and designer shopping,” EBD explained. Riga, Latvia’s capital, snared second place and was also selected as the Best Baltic Destination, followed by Dubrovnik & Cavtat in Croatia, Madrid, and Namur in Belgium in the first five places. With Amsterdam, Olhão in Portugal, Ascona in Italy, Bath in England, the sustainable luxury Greek island of Antipaxos, and Seville, Spain among others, the 2025 selection, according to EBD, “perfectly reflects modern travelers’ evolving desires—a mix of exclusive retreats, cultural treasures, romantic escapes and sun-kissed coastal gems. ForbesTravel Photographer Of The Year: Beautiful, Inspiring Award-Winning ImagesBy Cecilia Rodriguez From the majestic streets of Madrid to the crystal-clear waters of Antipaxos, from the cultural richness of Riga to the elegance of Monaco, this year’s selection proves that Europe remains the world’s most diverse and captivating continent for travel.” In partnership with more than 500 tourism offices in Europe and the EDEN Network (Sustainable Destinations awarded by the European Commission), European Best Destinations has billed itself as the most influential travel competition in Europe for the past 14 consecutive years. Monaco, elected European Best Destination 2025 Monaco has been elected The European Best Destination for 2025. EBD 1. Monaco, Best European Destination 2025 EBD’s top selection is the ultimate luxury and lifestyle escape and has been officially awarded the title of Best Destination in Europe 2025, a recognition voted by tourism professionals and travelers as the Must-See Destination of the Year. The famous city on the French Riviera leads the way in sustainable luxury travel, with a commitment to marine conservation, green tourism and eco-conscious urban development. Its victory reflects a growing traveler preference for destinations that seamlessly combine exclusivity with sustainability. The preferred destination for couples aged 25 to 45, Monaco has received more votes than any other Riviera destination since the competition’s inception. The principality’s blend of sustainability, luxury, culture, gastronomy, wellness, sport and year-round events makes it an exceptional experience for a romantic getaway, a family retreat or an exclusive escape. “Explore the historic charm of Monaco, marvel at the legendary Place du Casino, or unwind at the Larvotto seaside complex, where luxury meets the Mediterranean. Enjoy Michelin-starred dining, vibrant cultural events, and a commitment to sustainable tourism,” EBD recommends. City Hall Square in the Old Town of Riga, Latvia City Hall Square with House of the Blackheads and Saint Peter church in Old Town of Riga, Latvia getty 2. Riga, Latvia The #2 Best European Destination also won the tile of Hottest City Break 2025. Latvia’s capital combines historic charm with a modern, vibrant atmosphere, making it a favorite for globetrotters seeking an inspiring destination. Known as the "Paris of the North," Riga offers a rich blend of Art Nouveau architecture, nature, shopping, gastronomy and vibrant cultural events. Riga, Rising Star of the Baltics, was also voted best Baltic destination and has been gaining significant momentum on the European travel scene. Recognized as one of the Top 5 European Destinations in 2024, Riga saw a 14% increase in visitors, making it one of Europe’s most up-and-coming cities. In its Old Historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, medieval landmarks such as the House of the Blackheads and Riga Cathedral take you back in time. “For a taste of Riga’s artistic soul, explore the trendy Mieraiela district, brimming with artisan shops, galleries, and cozy cafés,” notes EBD. “Food lovers will find Riga a culinary haven, from its traditional Latvian dishes to its modern fine dining scene, while Riga Central Market offers a sensory journey through local flavors. In the evening, unwind at one of Riga’s many rooftop bars with stunning views of the city. Riga’s unique appeal lies in its harmonious blend of old and new. Visitors can relax by the tranquil Daugava River, take a stroll through the lush Kronvalda Park, or explore the Latvian National Museum of Art for a deep dive into the country’s heritage. The city also boasts a thriving nightlife. Whether you're visiting for the annual Riga Opera Festival or the enchanting Christmas markets, Riga promises unforgettable experiences year-round.” Dubrovnik, Fronting, The ,Adriatic ,Sea, Dubrovnik, the "Pearl of the Adriatic," is one of the Best European Destinations for 2025 EBD 3. Dubrovnik & Cavtat, Croatia Dubrovnik & the Hidden Luxury of Cavtat in Croatia were voted #3 Best European Destination. Dubrovnik, in the southern part of the country by the Adriatic Sea, is one of the most prominent tourist destinations of the Mediterranean. Known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," it has all the features to enchant visitors: ancient city walls, crystal-clear waters, and a rich cultural heritage. The old city of Dubrovnik, a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, baroque buildings and charming squares, is a UNESCO-listed site, a favorite for history lovers but also a top-tier luxury destination with five-star hotels, gourmet dining and exclusive island escapes. This year, Dubrovnik and Cavtat competed jointly, showcasing their unique blend of historic grandeur and peaceful exclusivity. Often dubbed the “New St. Tropez,” Cavtat is a rising star in sustainable luxury tourism, offering a retreat at its pristine beaches and elegant boutique hotels. With 24% of American travelers voting for Cavtat, it’s one of the best destinations for an affordable yet exclusive European escape. “Stroll along the famous city walls for breathtaking Adriatic views, explore Lovrijenac Fortress and the Rector’s Palace, or take a short boat ride to the island of Lokrum, a tranquil escape with lush gardens and hidden coves,” EBD advises. For ultimate exclusivity and luxury, visit Cavtat, a short drive from Dubrovnik. Awarded the title of Most Exclusive Destination in Europe, it offers a more intimate escape from the crowds. With its picturesque marina, elegant waterfront and charming historic town, it’s also home to the Most Beautiful Bay in Europe. For beach lovers, Dubrovnik’s coastline, from the sandy shores of Banje Beach to the crystal-clear waters of Sveti Jakov, offers plenty of alternativess for sunbathing, swimming and water sports. Pavement cafes in Madrid's Plaza Mayor People enjoying outdoor cafes in Madrid's Plaza Mayor getty 4. Madrid, Spain Madrid, made it to #4 of the Best Destinations in Europe for 2025. A city where tradition meets modernity, it’s an irresistible choice for travelers. Spain’s vibrant capital offers a unique blend of rich history, cutting-edge art, world-class dining, lively night life and an electric energy that never stops. “With trendy new hotspots, in 2025 Madrid is more alive than ever,” writes EBD. “Stroll through the iconic Gran Vía, a paradise for shopping and architecture lovers, or explore the historic Barrio de las Letras, brimming with literary history and charming streets. Art enthusiasts will be captivated by the Prado Museum, Reina Sofía Museum, and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum that form the world-famous ‘Golden Triangle of Art. “Madrid offers a rich gastronomic experience, from Michelin-starred restaurants to authentic tapas bars as well as trendy rooftop terraces. For those seeking special experiences, visit the lush El Retiro Park for a leisurely boat ride, catch a flamenco performance or enjoy the buzzing nightlife in neighborhoods like Malasaña and Chueca. Madrid’s lively calendar of events, including festivals like San Isidro or Design Week, ensures there’s always something exciting happening.” Panoramic View of Medieval Citadel in Namur, Belgium. Panoramic View of the Medieval Citadel in Namur, Belgium, from the River getty 5. Namur, Belgium Ranked 5th among the Best European Destinations 2025, Namur is experiencing a true renaissance, evolving into one of the most dynamic and forward-thinking destinations in Europe. A unique fusion of elegance and nature Namur, the capital of French-speaking Wallonia, has emerged as the perfect romantic and cultural getaway. Located at the confluence of the Meuse and Sambre rivers, it offers a mix of heritage, gastronomy and outdoor adventure. Particularly popular among culture lovers, nature enthusiasts and couples looking for a romantic escape. Namur has also been voted “Best City Break in Europe 2025” by travelers. Once a hidden gem, it’s now a thriving hub of innovation, sustainability and culture, attracting both travelers and investors attracted to a city on the rise. Namur stands out as one of the best cities to live in due to its green spaces, strong commitment to zero-carbon initiatives and thriving start-up ecosystem. With its boutique hotels, high-end gastronomic restaurants, and trendy bars, it’s also a Romantic & Cultural Getaway for 2025. The Next 5 European Best Destinations Bicycles parked next to the canal in Amsterdam, Holland Bicycles parked next to a canal in Amsterdam, Holland getty 6. Amsterdam, The Netherlands The Ultimate Year-Round Destination for Culture, Charm & Sustainability, Amsterdam, continues to offer a vibrant blend of heritage and innovation. “Wander its iconic canals, where 17th-century charm meets modern design, and explore neighborhoods like Jordaan and De Pijp, brimming with markets, boutiques and cozy cafés,” EBD notes. From spring tulip fields to summer festivals, autumn canal strolls, and winter’s magical light displays, Amsterdam invites visitors all year. Cycle through Vondelpark, savor local treats like stroopwafels and visit cultural landmarks including the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House. The city is also a hub for sustainable tourism, with a focus on green transportation and eco-friendly accommodations A street in the coastal town of Olhão, a hidden gem in Portugal's Algarve. The coastal town of Olhão, a hidden gem in Portugal's Algarve Shutterstock 7. Olhao, Portugal An Algarve Hidden Gem, Portugal’s coastal town of Olhão offers traditional charm and luxurious experiences. “Wander the cobbled streets of its historic Old Town, explore vibrant markets brimming with fresh seafood, and take a boat trip to the golden sands of nearby Barrier Islands like Armona and Culatra,” enthuses EBD. “Savor Olhão’s thriving culinary scene, from seafood cataplana to fine dining, paired with local wines. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the stunning Ria Formosa Natural Park, ideal for kayaking and birdwatching. With its relaxed vibe and rich culture, Olhão offers an unforgettable escape.” A couple enjoying a beautiful view of island Mljet, Croatia Visitors enjoying Mljet island in Croatia. This is part of Mljet National Park, the oldest protected marine area in the Mediterranean getty 8. Mljet Island, Croatia Croatia’s Green Pearl, Mljet Island, is a hidden gem with untouched nature, crystal-clear waters and peaceful ambiance for those seeking relaxation, adventure and authentic experiences. Its Mljet National Park, the oldest protected marine area in the Mediterranean, features Veliko and Malo Jezero, saltwater lakes surrounded by lush forests and pristine beaches such as Saplunara ideal for swimming, snorkeling and kayaking. “Hike or bike through the island's scenic trails and charming villages, and savor fresh seafood, local olive oil, and wines at cozy taverns,” writes EBD. “Known for its commitment to sustainability, Mljet offers a slower pace of life and a chance to reconnect with nature.” A colorful street in old town Lisbon, Portugal. A colorful street in old town Lisbon, Portugal Armando-Oliveira, EBD 9. Lisbon, Portugal The vibrant charm of Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, is found in its cobblestone streets, colorful tiles and breathtaking views that meet a dynamic cultural scene. Says EBD: “Stroll through historic neighborhoods like Alfama, with its soulful Fado music, and Baixa, home to grand plazas and lively Bairro Alto. Savor Lisbon’s culinary delights, from traditional dishes like bacalhau to the iconic pastéis de nata. Explore landmarks like the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, or ride Tram 28 to scenic viewpoints. Just beyond the city, golden beaches and Sintra’s fairytale landscapes await, making Lisbon the perfect blend of history, flavor, and adventure.” Aerial photo of Voutoumi Bay and beach in Antipaxos, Greece Aerial photo of Voutoumi Bay and beach in Antipaxos, Greece Shutterstock 10. Antipaxos, Greece This is one of Greece's Hidden Paradises for Serenity & Seaside Luxury On the small island of Antipaxos, a hidden gem in Greece about three kilometers south of Paxos, turquoise waters, untouched charm and serene luxury beckon. A short boat ride from Paxos, Antipaxos offers breathtaking beaches like Voutoumi and Vrika for swimming, snorkeling or sunbathing in peace. Indulge in the island’s renowned wines and fresh seafood at charming seaside tavernas, blending authentic flavors with stunning views. Wander scenic trails through olive groves and vineyards, offering vistas of the Ionian Sea. Whether for nature lovers or couples, Antipaxos promises a secluded and beautiful getaway. The Next 10 European Best Destinations For 2025 Include: 11. Dhermi, Albania 12. Bath, UK 13. Folegandros, Greece 14. Istanbul, Turkey 15. Eze, France 16. Ascona, Switzerland 17. Alesund, Norway 18. Cassis, France 19. Seville, Spain 20. Porto-Montenegro, Montenegro All 20 winners of this year’s

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    The 20 ‘European Best Destinations’ For 2025: Monaco Tops New Report The European Best Destinations organization has revealed its highly anticipated report on the trendiest places in Europe to visit this year, based on a record number of votes from more than 1.2 million travelers across 158 countries. Selected from 500-plus destinations, the new, tempting list includes hidden gems, exclusive coastal towns, preserved nature escapes, romantic getaways, city breaks, family vacations, exclusive islands and wellness retreats. The 20 shortlisted European Best Destinations were selected for their quality of life, sustainable development, year-round cultural offer, growth of popularity on social networks and their international recognition (winners of Smart tourism, EU Green Capital, UNESCO, Zero Carbon Emission Commitment, EU Capital of Culture, Blue Flags and more). ForbesThe 20 Best European Destinations In 2024: Marbella Tops Travel SurveyBy Cecilia Rodriguez Monaco tops the list with an unmatched 115,891 votes—98% of them by international travelers—making it the most globally-endorsed destination in the competition’s history. “This sun-soaked, five-star escape embodies everything discerning travelers seek in 2025: sustainable luxury, nature, wellness, gastronomy, conservation, sports activities and designer shopping,” EBD explained. Riga, Latvia’s capital, snared second place and was also selected as the Best Baltic Destination, followed by Dubrovnik & Cavtat in Croatia, Madrid, and Namur in Belgium in the first five places. With Amsterdam, Olhão in Portugal, Ascona in Italy, Bath in England, the sustainable luxury Greek island of Antipaxos, and Seville, Spain among others, the 2025 selection, according to EBD, “perfectly reflects modern travelers’ evolving desires—a mix of exclusive retreats, cultural treasures, romantic escapes and sun-kissed coastal gems. ForbesTravel Photographer Of The Year: Beautiful, Inspiring Award-Winning ImagesBy Cecilia Rodriguez From the majestic streets of Madrid to the crystal-clear waters of Antipaxos, from the cultural richness of Riga to the elegance of Monaco, this year’s selection proves that Europe remains the world’s most diverse and captivating continent for travel.” In partnership with more than 500 tourism offices in Europe and the EDEN Network (Sustainable Destinations awarded by the European Commission), European Best Destinations has billed itself as the most influential travel competition in Europe for the past 14 consecutive years. Monaco, elected European Best Destination 2025 Monaco has been elected The European Best Destination for 2025. EBD 1. Monaco, Best European Destination 2025 EBD’s top selection is the ultimate luxury and lifestyle escape and has been officially awarded the title of Best Destination in Europe 2025, a recognition voted by tourism professionals and travelers as the Must-See Destination of the Year. The famous city on the French Riviera leads the way in sustainable luxury travel, with a commitment to marine conservation, green tourism and eco-conscious urban development. Its victory reflects a growing traveler preference for destinations that seamlessly combine exclusivity with sustainability. The preferred destination for couples aged 25 to 45, Monaco has received more votes than any other Riviera destination since the competition’s inception. The principality’s blend of sustainability, luxury, culture, gastronomy, wellness, sport and year-round events makes it an exceptional experience for a romantic getaway, a family retreat or an exclusive escape. “Explore the historic charm of Monaco, marvel at the legendary Place du Casino, or unwind at the Larvotto seaside complex, where luxury meets the Mediterranean. Enjoy Michelin-starred dining, vibrant cultural events, and a commitment to sustainable tourism,” EBD recommends. City Hall Square in the Old Town of Riga, Latvia City Hall Square with House of the Blackheads and Saint Peter church in Old Town of Riga, Latvia getty 2. Riga, Latvia The #2 Best European Destination also won the tile of Hottest City Break 2025. Latvia’s capital combines historic charm with a modern, vibrant atmosphere, making it a favorite for globetrotters seeking an inspiring destination. Known as the "Paris of the North," Riga offers a rich blend of Art Nouveau architecture, nature, shopping, gastronomy and vibrant cultural events. Riga, Rising Star of the Baltics, was also voted best Baltic destination and has been gaining significant momentum on the European travel scene. Recognized as one of the Top 5 European Destinations in 2024, Riga saw a 14% increase in visitors, making it one of Europe’s most up-and-coming cities. In its Old Historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, medieval landmarks such as the House of the Blackheads and Riga Cathedral take you back in time. “For a taste of Riga’s artistic soul, explore the trendy Mieraiela district, brimming with artisan shops, galleries, and cozy cafés,” notes EBD. “Food lovers will find Riga a culinary haven, from its traditional Latvian dishes to its modern fine dining scene, while Riga Central Market offers a sensory journey through local flavors. In the evening, unwind at one of Riga’s many rooftop bars with stunning views of the city. Riga’s unique appeal lies in its harmonious blend of old and new. Visitors can relax by the tranquil Daugava River, take a stroll through the lush Kronvalda Park, or explore the Latvian National Museum of Art for a deep dive into the country’s heritage. The city also boasts a thriving nightlife. Whether you're visiting for the annual Riga Opera Festival or the enchanting Christmas markets, Riga promises unforgettable experiences year-round.” Dubrovnik, Fronting, The ,Adriatic ,Sea, Dubrovnik, the "Pearl of the Adriatic," is one of the Best European Destinations for 2025 EBD 3. Dubrovnik & Cavtat, Croatia Dubrovnik & the Hidden Luxury of Cavtat in Croatia were voted #3 Best European Destination. Dubrovnik, in the southern part of the country by the Adriatic Sea, is one of the most prominent tourist destinations of the Mediterranean. Known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," it has all the features to enchant visitors: ancient city walls, crystal-clear waters, and a rich cultural heritage. The old city of Dubrovnik, a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, baroque buildings and charming squares, is a UNESCO-listed site, a favorite for history lovers but also a top-tier luxury destination with five-star hotels, gourmet dining and exclusive island escapes. This year, Dubrovnik and Cavtat competed jointly, showcasing their unique blend of historic grandeur and peaceful exclusivity. Often dubbed the “New St. Tropez,” Cavtat is a rising star in sustainable luxury tourism, offering a retreat at its pristine beaches and elegant boutique hotels. With 24% of American travelers voting for Cavtat, it’s one of the best destinations for an affordable yet exclusive European escape. “Stroll along the famous city walls for breathtaking Adriatic views, explore Lovrijenac Fortress and the Rector’s Palace, or take a short boat ride to the island of Lokrum, a tranquil escape with lush gardens and hidden coves,” EBD advises. For ultimate exclusivity and luxury, visit Cavtat, a short drive from Dubrovnik. Awarded the title of Most Exclusive Destination in Europe, it offers a more intimate escape from the crowds. With its picturesque marina, elegant waterfront and charming historic town, it’s also home to the Most Beautiful Bay in Europe. For beach lovers, Dubrovnik’s coastline, from the sandy shores of Banje Beach to the crystal-clear waters of Sveti Jakov, offers plenty of alternativess for sunbathing, swimming and water sports. Pavement cafes in Madrid's Plaza Mayor People enjoying outdoor cafes in Madrid's Plaza Mayor getty 4. Madrid, Spain Madrid, made it to #4 of the Best Destinations in Europe for 2025. A city where tradition meets modernity, it’s an irresistible choice for travelers. Spain’s vibrant capital offers a unique blend of rich history, cutting-edge art, world-class dining, lively night life and an electric energy that never stops. “With trendy new hotspots, in 2025 Madrid is more alive than ever,” writes EBD. “Stroll through the iconic Gran Vía, a paradise for shopping and architecture lovers, or explore the historic Barrio de las Letras, brimming with literary history and charming streets. Art enthusiasts will be captivated by the Prado Museum, Reina Sofía Museum, and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum that form the world-famous ‘Golden Triangle of Art. “Madrid offers a rich gastronomic experience, from Michelin-starred restaurants to authentic tapas bars as well as trendy rooftop terraces. For those seeking special experiences, visit the lush El Retiro Park for a leisurely boat ride, catch a flamenco performance or enjoy the buzzing nightlife in neighborhoods like Malasaña and Chueca. Madrid’s lively calendar of events, including festivals like San Isidro or Design Week, ensures there’s always something exciting happening.” Panoramic View of Medieval Citadel in Namur, Belgium. Panoramic View of the Medieval Citadel in Namur, Belgium, from the River getty 5. Namur, Belgium Ranked 5th among the Best European Destinations 2025, Namur is experiencing a true renaissance, evolving into one of the most dynamic and forward-thinking destinations in Europe. A unique fusion of elegance and nature Namur, the capital of French-speaking Wallonia, has emerged as the perfect romantic and cultural getaway. Located at the confluence of the Meuse and Sambre rivers, it offers a mix of heritage, gastronomy and outdoor adventure. Particularly popular among culture lovers, nature enthusiasts and couples looking for a romantic escape. Namur has also been voted “Best City Break in Europe 2025” by travelers. Once a hidden gem, it’s now a thriving hub of innovation, sustainability and culture, attracting both travelers and investors attracted to a city on the rise. Namur stands out as one of the best cities to live in due to its green spaces, strong commitment to zero-carbon initiatives and thriving start-up ecosystem. With its boutique hotels, high-end gastronomic restaurants, and trendy bars, it’s also a Romantic & Cultural Getaway for 2025. The Next 5 European Best Destinations Bicycles parked next to the canal in Amsterdam, Holland Bicycles parked next to a canal in Amsterdam, Holland getty 6. Amsterdam, The Netherlands The Ultimate Year-Round Destination for Culture, Charm & Sustainability, Amsterdam, continues to offer a vibrant blend of heritage and innovation. “Wander its iconic canals, where 17th-century charm meets modern design, and explore neighborhoods like Jordaan and De Pijp, brimming with markets, boutiques and cozy cafés,” EBD notes. From spring tulip fields to summer festivals, autumn canal strolls, and winter’s magical light displays, Amsterdam invites visitors all year. Cycle through Vondelpark, savor local treats like stroopwafels and visit cultural landmarks including the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House. The city is also a hub for sustainable tourism, with a focus on green transportation and eco-friendly accommodations A street in the coastal town of Olhão, a hidden gem in Portugal's Algarve. The coastal town of Olhão, a hidden gem in Portugal's Algarve Shutterstock 7. Olhao, Portugal An Algarve Hidden Gem, Portugal’s coastal town of Olhão offers traditional charm and luxurious experiences. “Wander the cobbled streets of its historic Old Town, explore vibrant markets brimming with fresh seafood, and take a boat trip to the golden sands of nearby Barrier Islands like Armona and Culatra,” enthuses EBD. “Savor Olhão’s thriving culinary scene, from seafood cataplana to fine dining, paired with local wines. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the stunning Ria Formosa Natural Park, ideal for kayaking and birdwatching. With its relaxed vibe and rich culture, Olhão offers an unforgettable escape.” A couple enjoying a beautiful view of island Mljet, Croatia Visitors enjoying Mljet island in Croatia. This is part of Mljet National Park, the oldest protected marine area in the Mediterranean getty 8. Mljet Island, Croatia Croatia’s Green Pearl, Mljet Island, is a hidden gem with untouched nature, crystal-clear waters and peaceful ambiance for those seeking relaxation, adventure and authentic experiences. Its Mljet National Park, the oldest protected marine area in the Mediterranean, features Veliko and Malo Jezero, saltwater lakes surrounded by lush forests and pristine beaches such as Saplunara ideal for swimming, snorkeling and kayaking. “Hike or bike through the island's scenic trails and charming villages, and savor fresh seafood, local olive oil, and wines at cozy taverns,” writes EBD. “Known for its commitment to sustainability, Mljet offers a slower pace of life and a chance to reconnect with nature.” A colorful street in old town Lisbon, Portugal. A colorful street in old town Lisbon, Portugal Armando-Oliveira, EBD 9. Lisbon, Portugal The vibrant charm of Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, is found in its cobblestone streets, colorful tiles and breathtaking views that meet a dynamic cultural scene. Says EBD: “Stroll through historic neighborhoods like Alfama, with its soulful Fado music, and Baixa, home to grand plazas and lively Bairro Alto. Savor Lisbon’s culinary delights, from traditional dishes like bacalhau to the iconic pastéis de nata. Explore landmarks like the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, or ride Tram 28 to scenic viewpoints. Just beyond the city, golden beaches and Sintra’s fairytale landscapes await, making Lisbon the perfect blend of history, flavor, and adventure.” Aerial photo of Voutoumi Bay and beach in Antipaxos, Greece Aerial photo of Voutoumi Bay and beach in Antipaxos, Greece Shutterstock 10. Antipaxos, Greece This is one of Greece's Hidden Paradises for Serenity & Seaside Luxury On the small island of Antipaxos, a hidden gem in Greece about three kilometers south of Paxos, turquoise waters, untouched charm and serene luxury beckon. A short boat ride from Paxos, Antipaxos offers breathtaking beaches like Voutoumi and Vrika for swimming, snorkeling or sunbathing in peace. Indulge in the island’s renowned wines and fresh seafood at charming seaside tavernas, blending authentic flavors with stunning views. Wander scenic trails through olive groves and vineyards, offering vistas of the Ionian Sea. Whether for nature lovers or couples, Antipaxos promises a secluded and beautiful getaway. The Next 10 European Best Destinations For 2025 Include: 11. Dhermi, Albania 12. Bath, UK 13. Folegandros, Greece 14. Istanbul, Turkey 15. Eze, France 16. Ascona, Switzerland 17. Alesund, Norway 18. Cassis, France 19. Seville, Spain 20. Porto-Montenegro, Montenegro All 20 winners of this year’s

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    The 20 ‘European Best Destinations’ For 2025: Monaco Tops New Report The European Best Destinations organization has revealed its highly anticipated report on the trendiest places in Europe to visit this year, based on a record number of votes from more than 1.2 million travelers across 158 countries. Selected from 500-plus destinations, the new, tempting list includes hidden gems, exclusive coastal towns, preserved nature escapes, romantic getaways, city breaks, family vacations, exclusive islands and wellness retreats. The 20 shortlisted European Best Destinations were selected for their quality of life, sustainable development, year-round cultural offer, growth of popularity on social networks and their international recognition (winners of Smart tourism, EU Green Capital, UNESCO, Zero Carbon Emission Commitment, EU Capital of Culture, Blue Flags and more). ForbesThe 20 Best European Destinations In 2024: Marbella Tops Travel SurveyBy Cecilia Rodriguez Monaco tops the list with an unmatched 115,891 votes—98% of them by international travelers—making it the most globally-endorsed destination in the competition’s history. “This sun-soaked, five-star escape embodies everything discerning travelers seek in 2025: sustainable luxury, nature, wellness, gastronomy, conservation, sports activities and designer shopping,” EBD explained. Riga, Latvia’s capital, snared second place and was also selected as the Best Baltic Destination, followed by Dubrovnik & Cavtat in Croatia, Madrid, and Namur in Belgium in the first five places. With Amsterdam, Olhão in Portugal, Ascona in Italy, Bath in England, the sustainable luxury Greek island of Antipaxos, and Seville, Spain among others, the 2025 selection, according to EBD, “perfectly reflects modern travelers’ evolving desires—a mix of exclusive retreats, cultural treasures, romantic escapes and sun-kissed coastal gems. ForbesTravel Photographer Of The Year: Beautiful, Inspiring Award-Winning ImagesBy Cecilia Rodriguez From the majestic streets of Madrid to the crystal-clear waters of Antipaxos, from the cultural richness of Riga to the elegance of Monaco, this year’s selection proves that Europe remains the world’s most diverse and captivating continent for travel.” In partnership with more than 500 tourism offices in Europe and the EDEN Network (Sustainable Destinations awarded by the European Commission), European Best Destinations has billed itself as the most influential travel competition in Europe for the past 14 consecutive years. Monaco, elected European Best Destination 2025 Monaco has been elected The European Best Destination for 2025. EBD 1. Monaco, Best European Destination 2025 EBD’s top selection is the ultimate luxury and lifestyle escape and has been officially awarded the title of Best Destination in Europe 2025, a recognition voted by tourism professionals and travelers as the Must-See Destination of the Year. The famous city on the French Riviera leads the way in sustainable luxury travel, with a commitment to marine conservation, green tourism and eco-conscious urban development. Its victory reflects a growing traveler preference for destinations that seamlessly combine exclusivity with sustainability. The preferred destination for couples aged 25 to 45, Monaco has received more votes than any other Riviera destination since the competition’s inception. The principality’s blend of sustainability, luxury, culture, gastronomy, wellness, sport and year-round events makes it an exceptional experience for a romantic getaway, a family retreat or an exclusive escape. “Explore the historic charm of Monaco, marvel at the legendary Place du Casino, or unwind at the Larvotto seaside complex, where luxury meets the Mediterranean. Enjoy Michelin-starred dining, vibrant cultural events, and a commitment to sustainable tourism,” EBD recommends. City Hall Square in the Old Town of Riga, Latvia City Hall Square with House of the Blackheads and Saint Peter church in Old Town of Riga, Latvia getty 2. Riga, Latvia The #2 Best European Destination also won the tile of Hottest City Break 2025. Latvia’s capital combines historic charm with a modern, vibrant atmosphere, making it a favorite for globetrotters seeking an inspiring destination. Known as the "Paris of the North," Riga offers a rich blend of Art Nouveau architecture, nature, shopping, gastronomy and vibrant cultural events. Riga, Rising Star of the Baltics, was also voted best Baltic destination and has been gaining significant momentum on the European travel scene. Recognized as one of the Top 5 European Destinations in 2024, Riga saw a 14% increase in visitors, making it one of Europe’s most up-and-coming cities. In its Old Historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, medieval landmarks such as the House of the Blackheads and Riga Cathedral take you back in time. “For a taste of Riga’s artistic soul, explore the trendy Mieraiela district, brimming with artisan shops, galleries, and cozy cafés,” notes EBD. “Food lovers will find Riga a culinary haven, from its traditional Latvian dishes to its modern fine dining scene, while Riga Central Market offers a sensory journey through local flavors. In the evening, unwind at one of Riga’s many rooftop bars with stunning views of the city. Riga’s unique appeal lies in its harmonious blend of old and new. Visitors can relax by the tranquil Daugava River, take a stroll through the lush Kronvalda Park, or explore the Latvian National Museum of Art for a deep dive into the country’s heritage. The city also boasts a thriving nightlife. Whether you're visiting for the annual Riga Opera Festival or the enchanting Christmas markets, Riga promises unforgettable experiences year-round.” Dubrovnik, Fronting, The ,Adriatic ,Sea, Dubrovnik, the "Pearl of the Adriatic," is one of the Best European Destinations for 2025 EBD 3. Dubrovnik & Cavtat, Croatia Dubrovnik & the Hidden Luxury of Cavtat in Croatia were voted #3 Best European Destination. Dubrovnik, in the southern part of the country by the Adriatic Sea, is one of the most prominent tourist destinations of the Mediterranean. Known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," it has all the features to enchant visitors: ancient city walls, crystal-clear waters, and a rich cultural heritage. The old city of Dubrovnik, a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, baroque buildings and charming squares, is a UNESCO-listed site, a favorite for history lovers but also a top-tier luxury destination with five-star hotels, gourmet dining and exclusive island escapes. This year, Dubrovnik and Cavtat competed jointly, showcasing their unique blend of historic grandeur and peaceful exclusivity. Often dubbed the “New St. Tropez,” Cavtat is a rising star in sustainable luxury tourism, offering a retreat at its pristine beaches and elegant boutique hotels. With 24% of American travelers voting for Cavtat, it’s one of the best destinations for an affordable yet exclusive European escape. “Stroll along the famous city walls for breathtaking Adriatic views, explore Lovrijenac Fortress and the Rector’s Palace, or take a short boat ride to the island of Lokrum, a tranquil escape with lush gardens and hidden coves,” EBD advises. For ultimate exclusivity and luxury, visit Cavtat, a short drive from Dubrovnik. Awarded the title of Most Exclusive Destination in Europe, it offers a more intimate escape from the crowds. With its picturesque marina, elegant waterfront and charming historic town, it’s also home to the Most Beautiful Bay in Europe. For beach lovers, Dubrovnik’s coastline, from the sandy shores of Banje Beach to the crystal-clear waters of Sveti Jakov, offers plenty of alternativess for sunbathing, swimming and water sports. Pavement cafes in Madrid's Plaza Mayor People enjoying outdoor cafes in Madrid's Plaza Mayor getty 4. Madrid, Spain Madrid, made it to #4 of the Best Destinations in Europe for 2025. A city where tradition meets modernity, it’s an irresistible choice for travelers. Spain’s vibrant capital offers a unique blend of rich history, cutting-edge art, world-class dining, lively night life and an electric energy that never stops. “With trendy new hotspots, in 2025 Madrid is more alive than ever,” writes EBD. “Stroll through the iconic Gran Vía, a paradise for shopping and architecture lovers, or explore the historic Barrio de las Letras, brimming with literary history and charming streets. Art enthusiasts will be captivated by the Prado Museum, Reina Sofía Museum, and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum that form the world-famous ‘Golden Triangle of Art. “Madrid offers a rich gastronomic experience, from Michelin-starred restaurants to authentic tapas bars as well as trendy rooftop terraces. For those seeking special experiences, visit the lush El Retiro Park for a leisurely boat ride, catch a flamenco performance or enjoy the buzzing nightlife in neighborhoods like Malasaña and Chueca. Madrid’s lively calendar of events, including festivals like San Isidro or Design Week, ensures there’s always something exciting happening.” Panoramic View of Medieval Citadel in Namur, Belgium. Panoramic View of the Medieval Citadel in Namur, Belgium, from the River getty 5. Namur, Belgium Ranked 5th among the Best European Destinations 2025, Namur is experiencing a true renaissance, evolving into one of the most dynamic and forward-thinking destinations in Europe. A unique fusion of elegance and nature Namur, the capital of French-speaking Wallonia, has emerged as the perfect romantic and cultural getaway. Located at the confluence of the Meuse and Sambre rivers, it offers a mix of heritage, gastronomy and outdoor adventure. Particularly popular among culture lovers, nature enthusiasts and couples looking for a romantic escape. Namur has also been voted “Best City Break in Europe 2025” by travelers. Once a hidden gem, it’s now a thriving hub of innovation, sustainability and culture, attracting both travelers and investors attracted to a city on the rise. Namur stands out as one of the best cities to live in due to its green spaces, strong commitment to zero-carbon initiatives and thriving start-up ecosystem. With its boutique hotels, high-end gastronomic restaurants, and trendy bars, it’s also a Romantic & Cultural Getaway for 2025. The Next 5 European Best Destinations Bicycles parked next to the canal in Amsterdam, Holland Bicycles parked next to a canal in Amsterdam, Holland getty 6. Amsterdam, The Netherlands The Ultimate Year-Round Destination for Culture, Charm & Sustainability, Amsterdam, continues to offer a vibrant blend of heritage and innovation. “Wander its iconic canals, where 17th-century charm meets modern design, and explore neighborhoods like Jordaan and De Pijp, brimming with markets, boutiques and cozy cafés,” EBD notes. From spring tulip fields to summer festivals, autumn canal strolls, and winter’s magical light displays, Amsterdam invites visitors all year. Cycle through Vondelpark, savor local treats like stroopwafels and visit cultural landmarks including the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House. The city is also a hub for sustainable tourism, with a focus on green transportation and eco-friendly accommodations A street in the coastal town of Olhão, a hidden gem in Portugal's Algarve. The coastal town of Olhão, a hidden gem in Portugal's Algarve Shutterstock 7. Olhao, Portugal An Algarve Hidden Gem, Portugal’s coastal town of Olhão offers traditional charm and luxurious experiences. “Wander the cobbled streets of its historic Old Town, explore vibrant markets brimming with fresh seafood, and take a boat trip to the golden sands of nearby Barrier Islands like Armona and Culatra,” enthuses EBD. “Savor Olhão’s thriving culinary scene, from seafood cataplana to fine dining, paired with local wines. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the stunning Ria Formosa Natural Park, ideal for kayaking and birdwatching. With its relaxed vibe and rich culture, Olhão offers an unforgettable escape.” A couple enjoying a beautiful view of island Mljet, Croatia Visitors enjoying Mljet island in Croatia. This is part of Mljet National Park, the oldest protected marine area in the Mediterranean getty 8. Mljet Island, Croatia Croatia’s Green Pearl, Mljet Island, is a hidden gem with untouched nature, crystal-clear waters and peaceful ambiance for those seeking relaxation, adventure and authentic experiences. Its Mljet National Park, the oldest protected marine area in the Mediterranean, features Veliko and Malo Jezero, saltwater lakes surrounded by lush forests and pristine beaches such as Saplunara ideal for swimming, snorkeling and kayaking. “Hike or bike through the island's scenic trails and charming villages, and savor fresh seafood, local olive oil, and wines at cozy taverns,” writes EBD. “Known for its commitment to sustainability, Mljet offers a slower pace of life and a chance to reconnect with nature.” A colorful street in old town Lisbon, Portugal. A colorful street in old town Lisbon, Portugal Armando-Oliveira, EBD 9. Lisbon, Portugal The vibrant charm of Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, is found in its cobblestone streets, colorful tiles and breathtaking views that meet a dynamic cultural scene. Says EBD: “Stroll through historic neighborhoods like Alfama, with its soulful Fado music, and Baixa, home to grand plazas and lively Bairro Alto. Savor Lisbon’s culinary delights, from traditional dishes like bacalhau to the iconic pastéis de nata. Explore landmarks like the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, or ride Tram 28 to scenic viewpoints. Just beyond the city, golden beaches and Sintra’s fairytale landscapes await, making Lisbon the perfect blend of history, flavor, and adventure.” Aerial photo of Voutoumi Bay and beach in Antipaxos, Greece Aerial photo of Voutoumi Bay and beach in Antipaxos, Greece Shutterstock 10. Antipaxos, Greece This is one of Greece's Hidden Paradises for Serenity & Seaside Luxury On the small island of Antipaxos, a hidden gem in Greece about three kilometers south of Paxos, turquoise waters, untouched charm and serene luxury beckon. A short boat ride from Paxos, Antipaxos offers breathtaking beaches like Voutoumi and Vrika for swimming, snorkeling or sunbathing in peace. Indulge in the island’s renowned wines and fresh seafood at charming seaside tavernas, blending authentic flavors with stunning views. Wander scenic trails through olive groves and vineyards, offering vistas of the Ionian Sea. Whether for nature lovers or couples, Antipaxos promises a secluded and beautiful getaway. The Next 10 European Best Destinations For 2025 Include: 11. Dhermi, Albania 12. Bath, UK 13. Folegandros, Greece 14. Istanbul, Turkey 15. Eze, France 16. Ascona, Switzerland 17. Alesund, Norway 18. Cassis, France 19. Seville, Spain 20. Porto-Montenegro, Montenegro All 20 winners of this year’s

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    The 20 ‘European Best Destinations’ For 2025: Monaco Tops New Report The European Best Destinations organization has revealed its highly anticipated report on the trendiest places in Europe to visit this year, based on a record number of votes from more than 1.2 million travelers across 158 countries. Selected from 500-plus destinations, the new, tempting list includes hidden gems, exclusive coastal towns, preserved nature escapes, romantic getaways, city breaks, family vacations, exclusive islands and wellness retreats. The 20 shortlisted European Best Destinations were selected for their quality of life, sustainable development, year-round cultural offer, growth of popularity on social networks and their international recognition (winners of Smart tourism, EU Green Capital, UNESCO, Zero Carbon Emission Commitment, EU Capital of Culture, Blue Flags and more). ForbesThe 20 Best European Destinations In 2024: Marbella Tops Travel SurveyBy Cecilia Rodriguez Monaco tops the list with an unmatched 115,891 votes—98% of them by international travelers—making it the most globally-endorsed destination in the competition’s history. “This sun-soaked, five-star escape embodies everything discerning travelers seek in 2025: sustainable luxury, nature, wellness, gastronomy, conservation, sports activities and designer shopping,” EBD explained. Riga, Latvia’s capital, snared second place and was also selected as the Best Baltic Destination, followed by Dubrovnik & Cavtat in Croatia, Madrid, and Namur in Belgium in the first five places. With Amsterdam, Olhão in Portugal, Ascona in Italy, Bath in England, the sustainable luxury Greek island of Antipaxos, and Seville, Spain among others, the 2025 selection, according to EBD, “perfectly reflects modern travelers’ evolving desires—a mix of exclusive retreats, cultural treasures, romantic escapes and sun-kissed coastal gems. ForbesTravel Photographer Of The Year: Beautiful, Inspiring Award-Winning ImagesBy Cecilia Rodriguez From the majestic streets of Madrid to the crystal-clear waters of Antipaxos, from the cultural richness of Riga to the elegance of Monaco, this year’s selection proves that Europe remains the world’s most diverse and captivating continent for travel.” In partnership with more than 500 tourism offices in Europe and the EDEN Network (Sustainable Destinations awarded by the European Commission), European Best Destinations has billed itself as the most influential travel competition in Europe for the past 14 consecutive years. Monaco, elected European Best Destination 2025 Monaco has been elected The European Best Destination for 2025. EBD 1. Monaco, Best European Destination 2025 EBD’s top selection is the ultimate luxury and lifestyle escape and has been officially awarded the title of Best Destination in Europe 2025, a recognition voted by tourism professionals and travelers as the Must-See Destination of the Year. The famous city on the French Riviera leads the way in sustainable luxury travel, with a commitment to marine conservation, green tourism and eco-conscious urban development. Its victory reflects a growing traveler preference for destinations that seamlessly combine exclusivity with sustainability. The preferred destination for couples aged 25 to 45, Monaco has received more votes than any other Riviera destination since the competition’s inception. The principality’s blend of sustainability, luxury, culture, gastronomy, wellness, sport and year-round events makes it an exceptional experience for a romantic getaway, a family retreat or an exclusive escape. “Explore the historic charm of Monaco, marvel at the legendary Place du Casino, or unwind at the Larvotto seaside complex, where luxury meets the Mediterranean. Enjoy Michelin-starred dining, vibrant cultural events, and a commitment to sustainable tourism,” EBD recommends. City Hall Square in the Old Town of Riga, Latvia City Hall Square with House of the Blackheads and Saint Peter church in Old Town of Riga, Latvia getty 2. Riga, Latvia The #2 Best European Destination also won the tile of Hottest City Break 2025. Latvia’s capital combines historic charm with a modern, vibrant atmosphere, making it a favorite for globetrotters seeking an inspiring destination. Known as the "Paris of the North," Riga offers a rich blend of Art Nouveau architecture, nature, shopping, gastronomy and vibrant cultural events. Riga, Rising Star of the Baltics, was also voted best Baltic destination and has been gaining significant momentum on the European travel scene. Recognized as one of the Top 5 European Destinations in 2024, Riga saw a 14% increase in visitors, making it one of Europe’s most up-and-coming cities. In its Old Historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, medieval landmarks such as the House of the Blackheads and Riga Cathedral take you back in time. “For a taste of Riga’s artistic soul, explore the trendy Mieraiela district, brimming with artisan shops, galleries, and cozy cafés,” notes EBD. “Food lovers will find Riga a culinary haven, from its traditional Latvian dishes to its modern fine dining scene, while Riga Central Market offers a sensory journey through local flavors. In the evening, unwind at one of Riga’s many rooftop bars with stunning views of the city. Riga’s unique appeal lies in its harmonious blend of old and new. Visitors can relax by the tranquil Daugava River, take a stroll through the lush Kronvalda Park, or explore the Latvian National Museum of Art for a deep dive into the country’s heritage. The city also boasts a thriving nightlife. Whether you're visiting for the annual Riga Opera Festival or the enchanting Christmas markets, Riga promises unforgettable experiences year-round.” Dubrovnik, Fronting, The ,Adriatic ,Sea, Dubrovnik, the "Pearl of the Adriatic," is one of the Best European Destinations for 2025 EBD 3. Dubrovnik & Cavtat, Croatia Dubrovnik & the Hidden Luxury of Cavtat in Croatia were voted #3 Best European Destination. Dubrovnik, in the southern part of the country by the Adriatic Sea, is one of the most prominent tourist destinations of the Mediterranean. Known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," it has all the features to enchant visitors: ancient city walls, crystal-clear waters, and a rich cultural heritage. The old city of Dubrovnik, a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, baroque buildings and charming squares, is a UNESCO-listed site, a favorite for history lovers but also a top-tier luxury destination with five-star hotels, gourmet dining and exclusive island escapes. This year, Dubrovnik and Cavtat competed jointly, showcasing their unique blend of historic grandeur and peaceful exclusivity. Often dubbed the “New St. Tropez,” Cavtat is a rising star in sustainable luxury tourism, offering a retreat at its pristine beaches and elegant boutique hotels. With 24% of American travelers voting for Cavtat, it’s one of the best destinations for an affordable yet exclusive European escape. “Stroll along the famous city walls for breathtaking Adriatic views, explore Lovrijenac Fortress and the Rector’s Palace, or take a short boat ride to the island of Lokrum, a tranquil escape with lush gardens and hidden coves,” EBD advises. For ultimate exclusivity and luxury, visit Cavtat, a short drive from Dubrovnik. Awarded the title of Most Exclusive Destination in Europe, it offers a more intimate escape from the crowds. With its picturesque marina, elegant waterfront and charming historic town, it’s also home to the Most Beautiful Bay in Europe. For beach lovers, Dubrovnik’s coastline, from the sandy shores of Banje Beach to the crystal-clear waters of Sveti Jakov, offers plenty of alternativess for sunbathing, swimming and water sports. Pavement cafes in Madrid's Plaza Mayor People enjoying outdoor cafes in Madrid's Plaza Mayor getty 4. Madrid, Spain Madrid, made it to #4 of the Best Destinations in Europe for 2025. A city where tradition meets modernity, it’s an irresistible choice for travelers. Spain’s vibrant capital offers a unique blend of rich history, cutting-edge art, world-class dining, lively night life and an electric energy that never stops. “With trendy new hotspots, in 2025 Madrid is more alive than ever,” writes EBD. “Stroll through the iconic Gran Vía, a paradise for shopping and architecture lovers, or explore the historic Barrio de las Letras, brimming with literary history and charming streets. Art enthusiasts will be captivated by the Prado Museum, Reina Sofía Museum, and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum that form the world-famous ‘Golden Triangle of Art. “Madrid offers a rich gastronomic experience, from Michelin-starred restaurants to authentic tapas bars as well as trendy rooftop terraces. For those seeking special experiences, visit the lush El Retiro Park for a leisurely boat ride, catch a flamenco performance or enjoy the buzzing nightlife in neighborhoods like Malasaña and Chueca. Madrid’s lively calendar of events, including festivals like San Isidro or Design Week, ensures there’s always something exciting happening.” Panoramic View of Medieval Citadel in Namur, Belgium. Panoramic View of the Medieval Citadel in Namur, Belgium, from the River getty 5. Namur, Belgium Ranked 5th among the Best European Destinations 2025, Namur is experiencing a true renaissance, evolving into one of the most dynamic and forward-thinking destinations in Europe. A unique fusion of elegance and nature Namur, the capital of French-speaking Wallonia, has emerged as the perfect romantic and cultural getaway. Located at the confluence of the Meuse and Sambre rivers, it offers a mix of heritage, gastronomy and outdoor adventure. Particularly popular among culture lovers, nature enthusiasts and couples looking for a romantic escape. Namur has also been voted “Best City Break in Europe 2025” by travelers. Once a hidden gem, it’s now a thriving hub of innovation, sustainability and culture, attracting both travelers and investors attracted to a city on the rise. Namur stands out as one of the best cities to live in due to its green spaces, strong commitment to zero-carbon initiatives and thriving start-up ecosystem. With its boutique hotels, high-end gastronomic restaurants, and trendy bars, it’s also a Romantic & Cultural Getaway for 2025. The Next 5 European Best Destinations Bicycles parked next to the canal in Amsterdam, Holland Bicycles parked next to a canal in Amsterdam, Holland getty 6. Amsterdam, The Netherlands The Ultimate Year-Round Destination for Culture, Charm & Sustainability, Amsterdam, continues to offer a vibrant blend of heritage and innovation. “Wander its iconic canals, where 17th-century charm meets modern design, and explore neighborhoods like Jordaan and De Pijp, brimming with markets, boutiques and cozy cafés,” EBD notes. From spring tulip fields to summer festivals, autumn canal strolls, and winter’s magical light displays, Amsterdam invites visitors all year. Cycle through Vondelpark, savor local treats like stroopwafels and visit cultural landmarks including the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House. The city is also a hub for sustainable tourism, with a focus on green transportation and eco-friendly accommodations A street in the coastal town of Olhão, a hidden gem in Portugal's Algarve. The coastal town of Olhão, a hidden gem in Portugal's Algarve Shutterstock 7. Olhao, Portugal An Algarve Hidden Gem, Portugal’s coastal town of Olhão offers traditional charm and luxurious experiences. “Wander the cobbled streets of its historic Old Town, explore vibrant markets brimming with fresh seafood, and take a boat trip to the golden sands of nearby Barrier Islands like Armona and Culatra,” enthuses EBD. “Savor Olhão’s thriving culinary scene, from seafood cataplana to fine dining, paired with local wines. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the stunning Ria Formosa Natural Park, ideal for kayaking and birdwatching. With its relaxed vibe and rich culture, Olhão offers an unforgettable escape.” A couple enjoying a beautiful view of island Mljet, Croatia Visitors enjoying Mljet island in Croatia. This is part of Mljet National Park, the oldest protected marine area in the Mediterranean getty 8. Mljet Island, Croatia Croatia’s Green Pearl, Mljet Island, is a hidden gem with untouched nature, crystal-clear waters and peaceful ambiance for those seeking relaxation, adventure and authentic experiences. Its Mljet National Park, the oldest protected marine area in the Mediterranean, features Veliko and Malo Jezero, saltwater lakes surrounded by lush forests and pristine beaches such as Saplunara ideal for swimming, snorkeling and kayaking. “Hike or bike through the island's scenic trails and charming villages, and savor fresh seafood, local olive oil, and wines at cozy taverns,” writes EBD. “Known for its commitment to sustainability, Mljet offers a slower pace of life and a chance to reconnect with nature.” A colorful street in old town Lisbon, Portugal. A colorful street in old town Lisbon, Portugal Armando-Oliveira, EBD 9. Lisbon, Portugal The vibrant charm of Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, is found in its cobblestone streets, colorful tiles and breathtaking views that meet a dynamic cultural scene. Says EBD: “Stroll through historic neighborhoods like Alfama, with its soulful Fado music, and Baixa, home to grand plazas and lively Bairro Alto. Savor Lisbon’s culinary delights, from traditional dishes like bacalhau to the iconic pastéis de nata. Explore landmarks like the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, or ride Tram 28 to scenic viewpoints. Just beyond the city, golden beaches and Sintra’s fairytale landscapes await, making Lisbon the perfect blend of history, flavor, and adventure.” Aerial photo of Voutoumi Bay and beach in Antipaxos, Greece Aerial photo of Voutoumi Bay and beach in Antipaxos, Greece Shutterstock 10. Antipaxos, Greece This is one of Greece's Hidden Paradises for Serenity & Seaside Luxury On the small island of Antipaxos, a hidden gem in Greece about three kilometers south of Paxos, turquoise waters, untouched charm and serene luxury beckon. A short boat ride from Paxos, Antipaxos offers breathtaking beaches like Voutoumi and Vrika for swimming, snorkeling or sunbathing in peace. Indulge in the island’s renowned wines and fresh seafood at charming seaside tavernas, blending authentic flavors with stunning views. Wander scenic trails through olive groves and vineyards, offering vistas of the Ionian Sea. Whether for nature lovers or couples, Antipaxos promises a secluded and beautiful getaway. The Next 10 European Best Destinations For 2025 Include: 11. Dhermi, Albania 12. Bath, UK 13. Folegandros, Greece 14. Istanbul, Turkey 15. Eze, France 16. Ascona, Switzerland 17. Alesund, Norway 18. Cassis, France 19. Seville, Spain 20. Porto-Montenegro, Montenegro All 20 winners of this year’s

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    The 20 ‘European Best Destinations’ For 2025: Monaco Tops New Report The European Best Destinations organization has revealed its highly anticipated report on the trendiest places in Europe to visit this year, based on a record number of votes from more than 1.2 million travelers across 158 countries. Selected from 500-plus destinations, the new, tempting list includes hidden gems, exclusive coastal towns, preserved nature escapes, romantic getaways, city breaks, family vacations, exclusive islands and wellness retreats. The 20 shortlisted European Best Destinations were selected for their quality of life, sustainable development, year-round cultural offer, growth of popularity on social networks and their international recognition (winners of Smart tourism, EU Green Capital, UNESCO, Zero Carbon Emission Commitment, EU Capital of Culture, Blue Flags and more). ForbesThe 20 Best European Destinations In 2024: Marbella Tops Travel SurveyBy Cecilia Rodriguez Monaco tops the list with an unmatched 115,891 votes—98% of them by international travelers—making it the most globally-endorsed destination in the competition’s history. “This sun-soaked, five-star escape embodies everything discerning travelers seek in 2025: sustainable luxury, nature, wellness, gastronomy, conservation, sports activities and designer shopping,” EBD explained. Riga, Latvia’s capital, snared second place and was also selected as the Best Baltic Destination, followed by Dubrovnik & Cavtat in Croatia, Madrid, and Namur in Belgium in the first five places. With Amsterdam, Olhão in Portugal, Ascona in Italy, Bath in England, the sustainable luxury Greek island of Antipaxos, and Seville, Spain among others, the 2025 selection, according to EBD, “perfectly reflects modern travelers’ evolving desires—a mix of exclusive retreats, cultural treasures, romantic escapes and sun-kissed coastal gems. ForbesTravel Photographer Of The Year: Beautiful, Inspiring Award-Winning ImagesBy Cecilia Rodriguez From the majestic streets of Madrid to the crystal-clear waters of Antipaxos, from the cultural richness of Riga to the elegance of Monaco, this year’s selection proves that Europe remains the world’s most diverse and captivating continent for travel.” In partnership with more than 500 tourism offices in Europe and the EDEN Network (Sustainable Destinations awarded by the European Commission), European Best Destinations has billed itself as the most influential travel competition in Europe for the past 14 consecutive years. Monaco, elected European Best Destination 2025 Monaco has been elected The European Best Destination for 2025. EBD 1. Monaco, Best European Destination 2025 EBD’s top selection is the ultimate luxury and lifestyle escape and has been officially awarded the title of Best Destination in Europe 2025, a recognition voted by tourism professionals and travelers as the Must-See Destination of the Year. The famous city on the French Riviera leads the way in sustainable luxury travel, with a commitment to marine conservation, green tourism and eco-conscious urban development. Its victory reflects a growing traveler preference for destinations that seamlessly combine exclusivity with sustainability. The preferred destination for couples aged 25 to 45, Monaco has received more votes than any other Riviera destination since the competition’s inception. The principality’s blend of sustainability, luxury, culture, gastronomy, wellness, sport and year-round events makes it an exceptional experience for a romantic getaway, a family retreat or an exclusive escape. “Explore the historic charm of Monaco, marvel at the legendary Place du Casino, or unwind at the Larvotto seaside complex, where luxury meets the Mediterranean. Enjoy Michelin-starred dining, vibrant cultural events, and a commitment to sustainable tourism,” EBD recommends. City Hall Square in the Old Town of Riga, Latvia City Hall Square with House of the Blackheads and Saint Peter church in Old Town of Riga, Latvia getty 2. Riga, Latvia The #2 Best European Destination also won the tile of Hottest City Break 2025. Latvia’s capital combines historic charm with a modern, vibrant atmosphere, making it a favorite for globetrotters seeking an inspiring destination. Known as the "Paris of the North," Riga offers a rich blend of Art Nouveau architecture, nature, shopping, gastronomy and vibrant cultural events. Riga, Rising Star of the Baltics, was also voted best Baltic destination and has been gaining significant momentum on the European travel scene. Recognized as one of the Top 5 European Destinations in 2024, Riga saw a 14% increase in visitors, making it one of Europe’s most up-and-coming cities. In its Old Historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, medieval landmarks such as the House of the Blackheads and Riga Cathedral take you back in time. “For a taste of Riga’s artistic soul, explore the trendy Mieraiela district, brimming with artisan shops, galleries, and cozy cafés,” notes EBD. “Food lovers will find Riga a culinary haven, from its traditional Latvian dishes to its modern fine dining scene, while Riga Central Market offers a sensory journey through local flavors. In the evening, unwind at one of Riga’s many rooftop bars with stunning views of the city. Riga’s unique appeal lies in its harmonious blend of old and new. Visitors can relax by the tranquil Daugava River, take a stroll through the lush Kronvalda Park, or explore the Latvian National Museum of Art for a deep dive into the country’s heritage. The city also boasts a thriving nightlife. Whether you're visiting for the annual Riga Opera Festival or the enchanting Christmas markets, Riga promises unforgettable experiences year-round.” Dubrovnik, Fronting, The ,Adriatic ,Sea, Dubrovnik, the "Pearl of the Adriatic," is one of the Best European Destinations for 2025 EBD 3. Dubrovnik & Cavtat, Croatia Dubrovnik & the Hidden Luxury of Cavtat in Croatia were voted #3 Best European Destination. Dubrovnik, in the southern part of the country by the Adriatic Sea, is one of the most prominent tourist destinations of the Mediterranean. Known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," it has all the features to enchant visitors: ancient city walls, crystal-clear waters, and a rich cultural heritage. The old city of Dubrovnik, a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, baroque buildings and charming squares, is a UNESCO-listed site, a favorite for history lovers but also a top-tier luxury destination with five-star hotels, gourmet dining and exclusive island escapes. This year, Dubrovnik and Cavtat competed jointly, showcasing their unique blend of historic grandeur and peaceful exclusivity. Often dubbed the “New St. Tropez,” Cavtat is a rising star in sustainable luxury tourism, offering a retreat at its pristine beaches and elegant boutique hotels. With 24% of American travelers voting for Cavtat, it’s one of the best destinations for an affordable yet exclusive European escape. “Stroll along the famous city walls for breathtaking Adriatic views, explore Lovrijenac Fortress and the Rector’s Palace, or take a short boat ride to the island of Lokrum, a tranquil escape with lush gardens and hidden coves,” EBD advises. For ultimate exclusivity and luxury, visit Cavtat, a short drive from Dubrovnik. Awarded the title of Most Exclusive Destination in Europe, it offers a more intimate escape from the crowds. With its picturesque marina, elegant waterfront and charming historic town, it’s also home to the Most Beautiful Bay in Europe. For beach lovers, Dubrovnik’s coastline, from the sandy shores of Banje Beach to the crystal-clear waters of Sveti Jakov, offers plenty of alternativess for sunbathing, swimming and water sports. Pavement cafes in Madrid's Plaza Mayor People enjoying outdoor cafes in Madrid's Plaza Mayor getty 4. Madrid, Spain Madrid, made it to #4 of the Best Destinations in Europe for 2025. A city where tradition meets modernity, it’s an irresistible choice for travelers. Spain’s vibrant capital offers a unique blend of rich history, cutting-edge art, world-class dining, lively night life and an electric energy that never stops. “With trendy new hotspots, in 2025 Madrid is more alive than ever,” writes EBD. “Stroll through the iconic Gran Vía, a paradise for shopping and architecture lovers, or explore the historic Barrio de las Letras, brimming with literary history and charming streets. Art enthusiasts will be captivated by the Prado Museum, Reina Sofía Museum, and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum that form the world-famous ‘Golden Triangle of Art. “Madrid offers a rich gastronomic experience, from Michelin-starred restaurants to authentic tapas bars as well as trendy rooftop terraces. For those seeking special experiences, visit the lush El Retiro Park for a leisurely boat ride, catch a flamenco performance or enjoy the buzzing nightlife in neighborhoods like Malasaña and Chueca. Madrid’s lively calendar of events, including festivals like San Isidro or Design Week, ensures there’s always something exciting happening.” Panoramic View of Medieval Citadel in Namur, Belgium. Panoramic View of the Medieval Citadel in Namur, Belgium, from the River getty 5. Namur, Belgium Ranked 5th among the Best European Destinations 2025, Namur is experiencing a true renaissance, evolving into one of the most dynamic and forward-thinking destinations in Europe. A unique fusion of elegance and nature Namur, the capital of French-speaking Wallonia, has emerged as the perfect romantic and cultural getaway. Located at the confluence of the Meuse and Sambre rivers, it offers a mix of heritage, gastronomy and outdoor adventure. Particularly popular among culture lovers, nature enthusiasts and couples looking for a romantic escape. Namur has also been voted “Best City Break in Europe 2025” by travelers. Once a hidden gem, it’s now a thriving hub of innovation, sustainability and culture, attracting both travelers and investors attracted to a city on the rise. Namur stands out as one of the best cities to live in due to its green spaces, strong commitment to zero-carbon initiatives and thriving start-up ecosystem. With its boutique hotels, high-end gastronomic restaurants, and trendy bars, it’s also a Romantic & Cultural Getaway for 2025. The Next 5 European Best Destinations Bicycles parked next to the canal in Amsterdam, Holland Bicycles parked next to a canal in Amsterdam, Holland getty 6. Amsterdam, The Netherlands The Ultimate Year-Round Destination for Culture, Charm & Sustainability, Amsterdam, continues to offer a vibrant blend of heritage and innovation. “Wander its iconic canals, where 17th-century charm meets modern design, and explore neighborhoods like Jordaan and De Pijp, brimming with markets, boutiques and cozy cafés,” EBD notes. From spring tulip fields to summer festivals, autumn canal strolls, and winter’s magical light displays, Amsterdam invites visitors all year. Cycle through Vondelpark, savor local treats like stroopwafels and visit cultural landmarks including the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House. The city is also a hub for sustainable tourism, with a focus on green transportation and eco-friendly accommodations A street in the coastal town of Olhão, a hidden gem in Portugal's Algarve. The coastal town of Olhão, a hidden gem in Portugal's Algarve Shutterstock 7. Olhao, Portugal An Algarve Hidden Gem, Portugal’s coastal town of Olhão offers traditional charm and luxurious experiences. “Wander the cobbled streets of its historic Old Town, explore vibrant markets brimming with fresh seafood, and take a boat trip to the golden sands of nearby Barrier Islands like Armona and Culatra,” enthuses EBD. “Savor Olhão’s thriving culinary scene, from seafood cataplana to fine dining, paired with local wines. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the stunning Ria Formosa Natural Park, ideal for kayaking and birdwatching. With its relaxed vibe and rich culture, Olhão offers an unforgettable escape.” A couple enjoying a beautiful view of island Mljet, Croatia Visitors enjoying Mljet island in Croatia. This is part of Mljet National Park, the oldest protected marine area in the Mediterranean getty 8. Mljet Island, Croatia Croatia’s Green Pearl, Mljet Island, is a hidden gem with untouched nature, crystal-clear waters and peaceful ambiance for those seeking relaxation, adventure and authentic experiences. Its Mljet National Park, the oldest protected marine area in the Mediterranean, features Veliko and Malo Jezero, saltwater lakes surrounded by lush forests and pristine beaches such as Saplunara ideal for swimming, snorkeling and kayaking. “Hike or bike through the island's scenic trails and charming villages, and savor fresh seafood, local olive oil, and wines at cozy taverns,” writes EBD. “Known for its commitment to sustainability, Mljet offers a slower pace of life and a chance to reconnect with nature.” A colorful street in old town Lisbon, Portugal. A colorful street in old town Lisbon, Portugal Armando-Oliveira, EBD 9. Lisbon, Portugal The vibrant charm of Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, is found in its cobblestone streets, colorful tiles and breathtaking views that meet a dynamic cultural scene. Says EBD: “Stroll through historic neighborhoods like Alfama, with its soulful Fado music, and Baixa, home to grand plazas and lively Bairro Alto. Savor Lisbon’s culinary delights, from traditional dishes like bacalhau to the iconic pastéis de nata. Explore landmarks like the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, or ride Tram 28 to scenic viewpoints. Just beyond the city, golden beaches and Sintra’s fairytale landscapes await, making Lisbon the perfect blend of history, flavor, and adventure.” Aerial photo of Voutoumi Bay and beach in Antipaxos, Greece Aerial photo of Voutoumi Bay and beach in Antipaxos, Greece Shutterstock 10. Antipaxos, Greece This is one of Greece's Hidden Paradises for Serenity & Seaside Luxury On the small island of Antipaxos, a hidden gem in Greece about three kilometers south of Paxos, turquoise waters, untouched charm and serene luxury beckon. A short boat ride from Paxos, Antipaxos offers breathtaking beaches like Voutoumi and Vrika for swimming, snorkeling or sunbathing in peace. Indulge in the island’s renowned wines and fresh seafood at charming seaside tavernas, blending authentic flavors with stunning views. Wander scenic trails through olive groves and vineyards, offering vistas of the Ionian Sea. Whether for nature lovers or couples, Antipaxos promises a secluded and beautiful getaway. The Next 10 European Best Destinations For 2025 Include: 11. Dhermi, Albania 12. Bath, UK 13. Folegandros, Greece 14. Istanbul, Turkey 15. Eze, France 16. Ascona, Switzerland 17. Alesund, Norway 18. Cassis, France 19. Seville, Spain 20. Porto-Montenegro, Montenegro All 20 winners of this year’s

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    The 20 ‘European Best Destinations’ For 2025: Monaco Tops New Report The European Best Destinations organization has revealed its highly anticipated report on the trendiest places in Europe to visit this year, based on a record number of votes from more than 1.2 million travelers across 158 countries. Selected from 500-plus destinations, the new, tempting list includes hidden gems, exclusive coastal towns, preserved nature escapes, romantic getaways, city breaks, family vacations, exclusive islands and wellness retreats. The 20 shortlisted European Best Destinations were selected for their quality of life, sustainable development, year-round cultural offer, growth of popularity on social networks and their international recognition (winners of Smart tourism, EU Green Capital, UNESCO, Zero Carbon Emission Commitment, EU Capital of Culture, Blue Flags and more). ForbesThe 20 Best European Destinations In 2024: Marbella Tops Travel SurveyBy Cecilia Rodriguez Monaco tops the list with an unmatched 115,891 votes—98% of them by international travelers—making it the most globally-endorsed destination in the competition’s history. “This sun-soaked, five-star escape embodies everything discerning travelers seek in 2025: sustainable luxury, nature, wellness, gastronomy, conservation, sports activities and designer shopping,” EBD explained. Riga, Latvia’s capital, snared second place and was also selected as the Best Baltic Destination, followed by Dubrovnik & Cavtat in Croatia, Madrid, and Namur in Belgium in the first five places. With Amsterdam, Olhão in Portugal, Ascona in Italy, Bath in England, the sustainable luxury Greek island of Antipaxos, and Seville, Spain among others, the 2025 selection, according to EBD, “perfectly reflects modern travelers’ evolving desires—a mix of exclusive retreats, cultural treasures, romantic escapes and sun-kissed coastal gems. ForbesTravel Photographer Of The Year: Beautiful, Inspiring Award-Winning ImagesBy Cecilia Rodriguez From the majestic streets of Madrid to the crystal-clear waters of Antipaxos, from the cultural richness of Riga to the elegance of Monaco, this year’s selection proves that Europe remains the world’s most diverse and captivating continent for travel.” In partnership with more than 500 tourism offices in Europe and the EDEN Network (Sustainable Destinations awarded by the European Commission), European Best Destinations has billed itself as the most influential travel competition in Europe for the past 14 consecutive years. Monaco, elected European Best Destination 2025 Monaco has been elected The European Best Destination for 2025. EBD 1. Monaco, Best European Destination 2025 EBD’s top selection is the ultimate luxury and lifestyle escape and has been officially awarded the title of Best Destination in Europe 2025, a recognition voted by tourism professionals and travelers as the Must-See Destination of the Year. The famous city on the French Riviera leads the way in sustainable luxury travel, with a commitment to marine conservation, green tourism and eco-conscious urban development. Its victory reflects a growing traveler preference for destinations that seamlessly combine exclusivity with sustainability. The preferred destination for couples aged 25 to 45, Monaco has received more votes than any other Riviera destination since the competition’s inception. The principality’s blend of sustainability, luxury, culture, gastronomy, wellness, sport and year-round events makes it an exceptional experience for a romantic getaway, a family retreat or an exclusive escape. “Explore the historic charm of Monaco, marvel at the legendary Place du Casino, or unwind at the Larvotto seaside complex, where luxury meets the Mediterranean. Enjoy Michelin-starred dining, vibrant cultural events, and a commitment to sustainable tourism,” EBD recommends. City Hall Square in the Old Town of Riga, Latvia City Hall Square with House of the Blackheads and Saint Peter church in Old Town of Riga, Latvia getty 2. Riga, Latvia The #2 Best European Destination also won the tile of Hottest City Break 2025. Latvia’s capital combines historic charm with a modern, vibrant atmosphere, making it a favorite for globetrotters seeking an inspiring destination. Known as the "Paris of the North," Riga offers a rich blend of Art Nouveau architecture, nature, shopping, gastronomy and vibrant cultural events. Riga, Rising Star of the Baltics, was also voted best Baltic destination and has been gaining significant momentum on the European travel scene. Recognized as one of the Top 5 European Destinations in 2024, Riga saw a 14% increase in visitors, making it one of Europe’s most up-and-coming cities. In its Old Historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, medieval landmarks such as the House of the Blackheads and Riga Cathedral take you back in time. “For a taste of Riga’s artistic soul, explore the trendy Mieraiela district, brimming with artisan shops, galleries, and cozy cafés,” notes EBD. “Food lovers will find Riga a culinary haven, from its traditional Latvian dishes to its modern fine dining scene, while Riga Central Market offers a sensory journey through local flavors. In the evening, unwind at one of Riga’s many rooftop bars with stunning views of the city. Riga’s unique appeal lies in its harmonious blend of old and new. Visitors can relax by the tranquil Daugava River, take a stroll through the lush Kronvalda Park, or explore the Latvian National Museum of Art for a deep dive into the country’s heritage. The city also boasts a thriving nightlife. Whether you're visiting for the annual Riga Opera Festival or the enchanting Christmas markets, Riga promises unforgettable experiences year-round.” Dubrovnik, Fronting, The ,Adriatic ,Sea, Dubrovnik, the "Pearl of the Adriatic," is one of the Best European Destinations for 2025 EBD 3. Dubrovnik & Cavtat, Croatia Dubrovnik & the Hidden Luxury of Cavtat in Croatia were voted #3 Best European Destination. Dubrovnik, in the southern part of the country by the Adriatic Sea, is one of the most prominent tourist destinations of the Mediterranean. Known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," it has all the features to enchant visitors: ancient city walls, crystal-clear waters, and a rich cultural heritage. The old city of Dubrovnik, a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, baroque buildings and charming squares, is a UNESCO-listed site, a favorite for history lovers but also a top-tier luxury destination with five-star hotels, gourmet dining and exclusive island escapes. This year, Dubrovnik and Cavtat competed jointly, showcasing their unique blend of historic grandeur and peaceful exclusivity. Often dubbed the “New St. Tropez,” Cavtat is a rising star in sustainable luxury tourism, offering a retreat at its pristine beaches and elegant boutique hotels. With 24% of American travelers voting for Cavtat, it’s one of the best destinations for an affordable yet exclusive European escape. “Stroll along the famous city walls for breathtaking Adriatic views, explore Lovrijenac Fortress and the Rector’s Palace, or take a short boat ride to the island of Lokrum, a tranquil escape with lush gardens and hidden coves,” EBD advises. For ultimate exclusivity and luxury, visit Cavtat, a short drive from Dubrovnik. Awarded the title of Most Exclusive Destination in Europe, it offers a more intimate escape from the crowds. With its picturesque marina, elegant waterfront and charming historic town, it’s also home to the Most Beautiful Bay in Europe. For beach lovers, Dubrovnik’s coastline, from the sandy shores of Banje Beach to the crystal-clear waters of Sveti Jakov, offers plenty of alternativess for sunbathing, swimming and water sports. Pavement cafes in Madrid's Plaza Mayor People enjoying outdoor cafes in Madrid's Plaza Mayor getty 4. Madrid, Spain Madrid, made it to #4 of the Best Destinations in Europe for 2025. A city where tradition meets modernity, it’s an irresistible choice for travelers. Spain’s vibrant capital offers a unique blend of rich history, cutting-edge art, world-class dining, lively night life and an electric energy that never stops. “With trendy new hotspots, in 2025 Madrid is more alive than ever,” writes EBD. “Stroll through the iconic Gran Vía, a paradise for shopping and architecture lovers, or explore the historic Barrio de las Letras, brimming with literary history and charming streets. Art enthusiasts will be captivated by the Prado Museum, Reina Sofía Museum, and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum that form the world-famous ‘Golden Triangle of Art. “Madrid offers a rich gastronomic experience, from Michelin-starred restaurants to authentic tapas bars as well as trendy rooftop terraces. For those seeking special experiences, visit the lush El Retiro Park for a leisurely boat ride, catch a flamenco performance or enjoy the buzzing nightlife in neighborhoods like Malasaña and Chueca. Madrid’s lively calendar of events, including festivals like San Isidro or Design Week, ensures there’s always something exciting happening.” Panoramic View of Medieval Citadel in Namur, Belgium. Panoramic View of the Medieval Citadel in Namur, Belgium, from the River getty 5. Namur, Belgium Ranked 5th among the Best European Destinations 2025, Namur is experiencing a true renaissance, evolving into one of the most dynamic and forward-thinking destinations in Europe. A unique fusion of elegance and nature Namur, the capital of French-speaking Wallonia, has emerged as the perfect romantic and cultural getaway. Located at the confluence of the Meuse and Sambre rivers, it offers a mix of heritage, gastronomy and outdoor adventure. Particularly popular among culture lovers, nature enthusiasts and couples looking for a romantic escape. Namur has also been voted “Best City Break in Europe 2025” by travelers. Once a hidden gem, it’s now a thriving hub of innovation, sustainability and culture, attracting both travelers and investors attracted to a city on the rise. Namur stands out as one of the best cities to live in due to its green spaces, strong commitment to zero-carbon initiatives and thriving start-up ecosystem. With its boutique hotels, high-end gastronomic restaurants, and trendy bars, it’s also a Romantic & Cultural Getaway for 2025. The Next 5 European Best Destinations Bicycles parked next to the canal in Amsterdam, Holland Bicycles parked next to a canal in Amsterdam, Holland getty 6. Amsterdam, The Netherlands The Ultimate Year-Round Destination for Culture, Charm & Sustainability, Amsterdam, continues to offer a vibrant blend of heritage and innovation. “Wander its iconic canals, where 17th-century charm meets modern design, and explore neighborhoods like Jordaan and De Pijp, brimming with markets, boutiques and cozy cafés,” EBD notes. From spring tulip fields to summer festivals, autumn canal strolls, and winter’s magical light displays, Amsterdam invites visitors all year. Cycle through Vondelpark, savor local treats like stroopwafels and visit cultural landmarks including the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House. The city is also a hub for sustainable tourism, with a focus on green transportation and eco-friendly accommodations A street in the coastal town of Olhão, a hidden gem in Portugal's Algarve. The coastal town of Olhão, a hidden gem in Portugal's Algarve Shutterstock 7. Olhao, Portugal An Algarve Hidden Gem, Portugal’s coastal town of Olhão offers traditional charm and luxurious experiences. “Wander the cobbled streets of its historic Old Town, explore vibrant markets brimming with fresh seafood, and take a boat trip to the golden sands of nearby Barrier Islands like Armona and Culatra,” enthuses EBD. “Savor Olhão’s thriving culinary scene, from seafood cataplana to fine dining, paired with local wines. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the stunning Ria Formosa Natural Park, ideal for kayaking and birdwatching. With its relaxed vibe and rich culture, Olhão offers an unforgettable escape.” A couple enjoying a beautiful view of island Mljet, Croatia Visitors enjoying Mljet island in Croatia. This is part of Mljet National Park, the oldest protected marine area in the Mediterranean getty 8. Mljet Island, Croatia Croatia’s Green Pearl, Mljet Island, is a hidden gem with untouched nature, crystal-clear waters and peaceful ambiance for those seeking relaxation, adventure and authentic experiences. Its Mljet National Park, the oldest protected marine area in the Mediterranean, features Veliko and Malo Jezero, saltwater lakes surrounded by lush forests and pristine beaches such as Saplunara ideal for swimming, snorkeling and kayaking. “Hike or bike through the island's scenic trails and charming villages, and savor fresh seafood, local olive oil, and wines at cozy taverns,” writes EBD. “Known for its commitment to sustainability, Mljet offers a slower pace of life and a chance to reconnect with nature.” A colorful street in old town Lisbon, Portugal. A colorful street in old town Lisbon, Portugal Armando-Oliveira, EBD 9. Lisbon, Portugal The vibrant charm of Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, is found in its cobblestone streets, colorful tiles and breathtaking views that meet a dynamic cultural scene. Says EBD: “Stroll through historic neighborhoods like Alfama, with its soulful Fado music, and Baixa, home to grand plazas and lively Bairro Alto. Savor Lisbon’s culinary delights, from traditional dishes like bacalhau to the iconic pastéis de nata. Explore landmarks like the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, or ride Tram 28 to scenic viewpoints. Just beyond the city, golden beaches and Sintra’s fairytale landscapes await, making Lisbon the perfect blend of history, flavor, and adventure.” Aerial photo of Voutoumi Bay and beach in Antipaxos, Greece Aerial photo of Voutoumi Bay and beach in Antipaxos, Greece Shutterstock 10. Antipaxos, Greece This is one of Greece's Hidden Paradises for Serenity & Seaside Luxury On the small island of Antipaxos, a hidden gem in Greece about three kilometers south of Paxos, turquoise waters, untouched charm and serene luxury beckon. A short boat ride from Paxos, Antipaxos offers breathtaking beaches like Voutoumi and Vrika for swimming, snorkeling or sunbathing in peace. Indulge in the island’s renowned wines and fresh seafood at charming seaside tavernas, blending authentic flavors with stunning views. Wander scenic trails through olive groves and vineyards, offering vistas of the Ionian Sea. Whether for nature lovers or couples, Antipaxos promises a secluded and beautiful getaway. The Next 10 European Best Destinations For 2025 Include: 11. Dhermi, Albania 12. Bath, UK 13. Folegandros, Greece 14. Istanbul, Turkey 15. Eze, France 16. Ascona, Switzerland 17. Alesund, Norway 18. Cassis, France 19. Seville, Spain 20. Porto-Montenegro, Montenegro All 20 winners of this year’s

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    The 20 ‘European Best Destinations’ For 2025: Monaco Tops New Report The European Best Destinations organization has revealed its highly anticipated report on the trendiest places in Europe to visit this year, based on a record number of votes from more than 1.2 million travelers across 158 countries. Selected from 500-plus destinations, the new, tempting list includes hidden gems, exclusive coastal towns, preserved nature escapes, romantic getaways, city breaks, family vacations, exclusive islands and wellness retreats. The 20 shortlisted European Best Destinations were selected for their quality of life, sustainable development, year-round cultural offer, growth of popularity on social networks and their international recognition (winners of Smart tourism, EU Green Capital, UNESCO, Zero Carbon Emission Commitment, EU Capital of Culture, Blue Flags and more). ForbesThe 20 Best European Destinations In 2024: Marbella Tops Travel SurveyBy Cecilia Rodriguez Monaco tops the list with an unmatched 115,891 votes—98% of them by international travelers—making it the most globally-endorsed destination in the competition’s history. “This sun-soaked, five-star escape embodies everything discerning travelers seek in 2025: sustainable luxury, nature, wellness, gastronomy, conservation, sports activities and designer shopping,” EBD explained. Riga, Latvia’s capital, snared second place and was also selected as the Best Baltic Destination, followed by Dubrovnik & Cavtat in Croatia, Madrid, and Namur in Belgium in the first five places. With Amsterdam, Olhão in Portugal, Ascona in Italy, Bath in England, the sustainable luxury Greek island of Antipaxos, and Seville, Spain among others, the 2025 selection, according to EBD, “perfectly reflects modern travelers’ evolving desires—a mix of exclusive retreats, cultural treasures, romantic escapes and sun-kissed coastal gems. ForbesTravel Photographer Of The Year: Beautiful, Inspiring Award-Winning ImagesBy Cecilia Rodriguez From the majestic streets of Madrid to the crystal-clear waters of Antipaxos, from the cultural richness of Riga to the elegance of Monaco, this year’s selection proves that Europe remains the world’s most diverse and captivating continent for travel.” In partnership with more than 500 tourism offices in Europe and the EDEN Network (Sustainable Destinations awarded by the European Commission), European Best Destinations has billed itself as the most influential travel competition in Europe for the past 14 consecutive years. Monaco, elected European Best Destination 2025 Monaco has been elected The European Best Destination for 2025. EBD 1. Monaco, Best European Destination 2025 EBD’s top selection is the ultimate luxury and lifestyle escape and has been officially awarded the title of Best Destination in Europe 2025, a recognition voted by tourism professionals and travelers as the Must-See Destination of the Year. The famous city on the French Riviera leads the way in sustainable luxury travel, with a commitment to marine conservation, green tourism and eco-conscious urban development. Its victory reflects a growing traveler preference for destinations that seamlessly combine exclusivity with sustainability. The preferred destination for couples aged 25 to 45, Monaco has received more votes than any other Riviera destination since the competition’s inception. The principality’s blend of sustainability, luxury, culture, gastronomy, wellness, sport and year-round events makes it an exceptional experience for a romantic getaway, a family retreat or an exclusive escape. “Explore the historic charm of Monaco, marvel at the legendary Place du Casino, or unwind at the Larvotto seaside complex, where luxury meets the Mediterranean. Enjoy Michelin-starred dining, vibrant cultural events, and a commitment to sustainable tourism,” EBD recommends. City Hall Square in the Old Town of Riga, Latvia City Hall Square with House of the Blackheads and Saint Peter church in Old Town of Riga, Latvia getty 2. Riga, Latvia The #2 Best European Destination also won the tile of Hottest City Break 2025. Latvia’s capital combines historic charm with a modern, vibrant atmosphere, making it a favorite for globetrotters seeking an inspiring destination. Known as the "Paris of the North," Riga offers a rich blend of Art Nouveau architecture, nature, shopping, gastronomy and vibrant cultural events. Riga, Rising Star of the Baltics, was also voted best Baltic destination and has been gaining significant momentum on the European travel scene. Recognized as one of the Top 5 European Destinations in 2024, Riga saw a 14% increase in visitors, making it one of Europe’s most up-and-coming cities. In its Old Historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, medieval landmarks such as the House of the Blackheads and Riga Cathedral take you back in time. “For a taste of Riga’s artistic soul, explore the trendy Mieraiela district, brimming with artisan shops, galleries, and cozy cafés,” notes EBD. “Food lovers will find Riga a culinary haven, from its traditional Latvian dishes to its modern fine dining scene, while Riga Central Market offers a sensory journey through local flavors. In the evening, unwind at one of Riga’s many rooftop bars with stunning views of the city. Riga’s unique appeal lies in its harmonious blend of old and new. Visitors can relax by the tranquil Daugava River, take a stroll through the lush Kronvalda Park, or explore the Latvian National Museum of Art for a deep dive into the country’s heritage. The city also boasts a thriving nightlife. Whether you're visiting for the annual Riga Opera Festival or the enchanting Christmas markets, Riga promises unforgettable experiences year-round.” Dubrovnik, Fronting, The ,Adriatic ,Sea, Dubrovnik, the "Pearl of the Adriatic," is one of the Best European Destinations for 2025 EBD 3. Dubrovnik & Cavtat, Croatia Dubrovnik & the Hidden Luxury of Cavtat in Croatia were voted #3 Best European Destination. Dubrovnik, in the southern part of the country by the Adriatic Sea, is one of the most prominent tourist destinations of the Mediterranean. Known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," it has all the features to enchant visitors: ancient city walls, crystal-clear waters, and a rich cultural heritage. The old city of Dubrovnik, a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, baroque buildings and charming squares, is a UNESCO-listed site, a favorite for history lovers but also a top-tier luxury destination with five-star hotels, gourmet dining and exclusive island escapes. This year, Dubrovnik and Cavtat competed jointly, showcasing their unique blend of historic grandeur and peaceful exclusivity. Often dubbed the “New St. Tropez,” Cavtat is a rising star in sustainable luxury tourism, offering a retreat at its pristine beaches and elegant boutique hotels. With 24% of American travelers voting for Cavtat, it’s one of the best destinations for an affordable yet exclusive European escape. “Stroll along the famous city walls for breathtaking Adriatic views, explore Lovrijenac Fortress and the Rector’s Palace, or take a short boat ride to the island of Lokrum, a tranquil escape with lush gardens and hidden coves,” EBD advises. For ultimate exclusivity and luxury, visit Cavtat, a short drive from Dubrovnik. Awarded the title of Most Exclusive Destination in Europe, it offers a more intimate escape from the crowds. With its picturesque marina, elegant waterfront and charming historic town, it’s also home to the Most Beautiful Bay in Europe. For beach lovers, Dubrovnik’s coastline, from the sandy shores of Banje Beach to the crystal-clear waters of Sveti Jakov, offers plenty of alternativess for sunbathing, swimming and water sports. Pavement cafes in Madrid's Plaza Mayor People enjoying outdoor cafes in Madrid's Plaza Mayor getty 4. Madrid, Spain Madrid, made it to #4 of the Best Destinations in Europe for 2025. A city where tradition meets modernity, it’s an irresistible choice for travelers. Spain’s vibrant capital offers a unique blend of rich history, cutting-edge art, world-class dining, lively night life and an electric energy that never stops. “With trendy new hotspots, in 2025 Madrid is more alive than ever,” writes EBD. “Stroll through the iconic Gran Vía, a paradise for shopping and architecture lovers, or explore the historic Barrio de las Letras, brimming with literary history and charming streets. Art enthusiasts will be captivated by the Prado Museum, Reina Sofía Museum, and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum that form the world-famous ‘Golden Triangle of Art. “Madrid offers a rich gastronomic experience, from Michelin-starred restaurants to authentic tapas bars as well as trendy rooftop terraces. For those seeking special experiences, visit the lush El Retiro Park for a leisurely boat ride, catch a flamenco performance or enjoy the buzzing nightlife in neighborhoods like Malasaña and Chueca. Madrid’s lively calendar of events, including festivals like San Isidro or Design Week, ensures there’s always something exciting happening.” Panoramic View of Medieval Citadel in Namur, Belgium. Panoramic View of the Medieval Citadel in Namur, Belgium, from the River getty 5. Namur, Belgium Ranked 5th among the Best European Destinations 2025, Namur is experiencing a true renaissance, evolving into one of the most dynamic and forward-thinking destinations in Europe. A unique fusion of elegance and nature Namur, the capital of French-speaking Wallonia, has emerged as the perfect romantic and cultural getaway. Located at the confluence of the Meuse and Sambre rivers, it offers a mix of heritage, gastronomy and outdoor adventure. Particularly popular among culture lovers, nature enthusiasts and couples looking for a romantic escape. Namur has also been voted “Best City Break in Europe 2025” by travelers. Once a hidden gem, it’s now a thriving hub of innovation, sustainability and culture, attracting both travelers and investors attracted to a city on the rise. Namur stands out as one of the best cities to live in due to its green spaces, strong commitment to zero-carbon initiatives and thriving start-up ecosystem. With its boutique hotels, high-end gastronomic restaurants, and trendy bars, it’s also a Romantic & Cultural Getaway for 2025. The Next 5 European Best Destinations Bicycles parked next to the canal in Amsterdam, Holland Bicycles parked next to a canal in Amsterdam, Holland getty 6. Amsterdam, The Netherlands The Ultimate Year-Round Destination for Culture, Charm & Sustainability, Amsterdam, continues to offer a vibrant blend of heritage and innovation. “Wander its iconic canals, where 17th-century charm meets modern design, and explore neighborhoods like Jordaan and De Pijp, brimming with markets, boutiques and cozy cafés,” EBD notes. From spring tulip fields to summer festivals, autumn canal strolls, and winter’s magical light displays, Amsterdam invites visitors all year. Cycle through Vondelpark, savor local treats like stroopwafels and visit cultural landmarks including the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House. The city is also a hub for sustainable tourism, with a focus on green transportation and eco-friendly accommodations A street in the coastal town of Olhão, a hidden gem in Portugal's Algarve. The coastal town of Olhão, a hidden gem in Portugal's Algarve Shutterstock 7. Olhao, Portugal An Algarve Hidden Gem, Portugal’s coastal town of Olhão offers traditional charm and luxurious experiences. “Wander the cobbled streets of its historic Old Town, explore vibrant markets brimming with fresh seafood, and take a boat trip to the golden sands of nearby Barrier Islands like Armona and Culatra,” enthuses EBD. “Savor Olhão’s thriving culinary scene, from seafood cataplana to fine dining, paired with local wines. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the stunning Ria Formosa Natural Park, ideal for kayaking and birdwatching. With its relaxed vibe and rich culture, Olhão offers an unforgettable escape.” A couple enjoying a beautiful view of island Mljet, Croatia Visitors enjoying Mljet island in Croatia. This is part of Mljet National Park, the oldest protected marine area in the Mediterranean getty 8. Mljet Island, Croatia Croatia’s Green Pearl, Mljet Island, is a hidden gem with untouched nature, crystal-clear waters and peaceful ambiance for those seeking relaxation, adventure and authentic experiences. Its Mljet National Park, the oldest protected marine area in the Mediterranean, features Veliko and Malo Jezero, saltwater lakes surrounded by lush forests and pristine beaches such as Saplunara ideal for swimming, snorkeling and kayaking. “Hike or bike through the island's scenic trails and charming villages, and savor fresh seafood, local olive oil, and wines at cozy taverns,” writes EBD. “Known for its commitment to sustainability, Mljet offers a slower pace of life and a chance to reconnect with nature.” A colorful street in old town Lisbon, Portugal. A colorful street in old town Lisbon, Portugal Armando-Oliveira, EBD 9. Lisbon, Portugal The vibrant charm of Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, is found in its cobblestone streets, colorful tiles and breathtaking views that meet a dynamic cultural scene. Says EBD: “Stroll through historic neighborhoods like Alfama, with its soulful Fado music, and Baixa, home to grand plazas and lively Bairro Alto. Savor Lisbon’s culinary delights, from traditional dishes like bacalhau to the iconic pastéis de nata. Explore landmarks like the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, or ride Tram 28 to scenic viewpoints. Just beyond the city, golden beaches and Sintra’s fairytale landscapes await, making Lisbon the perfect blend of history, flavor, and adventure.” Aerial photo of Voutoumi Bay and beach in Antipaxos, Greece Aerial photo of Voutoumi Bay and beach in Antipaxos, Greece Shutterstock 10. Antipaxos, Greece This is one of Greece's Hidden Paradises for Serenity & Seaside Luxury On the small island of Antipaxos, a hidden gem in Greece about three kilometers south of Paxos, turquoise waters, untouched charm and serene luxury beckon. A short boat ride from Paxos, Antipaxos offers breathtaking beaches like Voutoumi and Vrika for swimming, snorkeling or sunbathing in peace. Indulge in the island’s renowned wines and fresh seafood at charming seaside tavernas, blending authentic flavors with stunning views. Wander scenic trails through olive groves and vineyards, offering vistas of the Ionian Sea. Whether for nature lovers or couples, Antipaxos promises a secluded and beautiful getaway. The Next 10 European Best Destinations For 2025 Include: 11. Dhermi, Albania 12. Bath, UK 13. Folegandros, Greece 14. Istanbul, Turkey 15. Eze, France 16. Ascona, Switzerland 17. Alesund, Norway 18. Cassis, France 19. Seville, Spain 20. Porto-Montenegro, Montenegro All 20 winners of this year’s

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    The 20 ‘European Best Destinations’ For 2025: Monaco Tops New Report The European Best Destinations organization has revealed its highly anticipated report on the trendiest places in Europe to visit this year, based on a record number of votes from more than 1.2 million travelers across 158 countries. Selected from 500-plus destinations, the new, tempting list includes hidden gems, exclusive coastal towns, preserved nature escapes, romantic getaways, city breaks, family vacations, exclusive islands and wellness retreats. The 20 shortlisted European Best Destinations were selected for their quality of life, sustainable development, year-round cultural offer, growth of popularity on social networks and their international recognition (winners of Smart tourism, EU Green Capital, UNESCO, Zero Carbon Emission Commitment, EU Capital of Culture, Blue Flags and more). ForbesThe 20 Best European Destinations In 2024: Marbella Tops Travel SurveyBy Cecilia Rodriguez Monaco tops the list with an unmatched 115,891 votes—98% of them by international travelers—making it the most globally-endorsed destination in the competition’s history. “This sun-soaked, five-star escape embodies everything discerning travelers seek in 2025: sustainable luxury, nature, wellness, gastronomy, conservation, sports activities and designer shopping,” EBD explained. Riga, Latvia’s capital, snared second place and was also selected as the Best Baltic Destination, followed by Dubrovnik & Cavtat in Croatia, Madrid, and Namur in Belgium in the first five places. With Amsterdam, Olhão in Portugal, Ascona in Italy, Bath in England, the sustainable luxury Greek island of Antipaxos, and Seville, Spain among others, the 2025 selection, according to EBD, “perfectly reflects modern travelers’ evolving desires—a mix of exclusive retreats, cultural treasures, romantic escapes and sun-kissed coastal gems. ForbesTravel Photographer Of The Year: Beautiful, Inspiring Award-Winning ImagesBy Cecilia Rodriguez From the majestic streets of Madrid to the crystal-clear waters of Antipaxos, from the cultural richness of Riga to the elegance of Monaco, this year’s selection proves that Europe remains the world’s most diverse and captivating continent for travel.” In partnership with more than 500 tourism offices in Europe and the EDEN Network (Sustainable Destinations awarded by the European Commission), European Best Destinations has billed itself as the most influential travel competition in Europe for the past 14 consecutive years. Monaco, elected European Best Destination 2025 Monaco has been elected The European Best Destination for 2025. EBD 1. Monaco, Best European Destination 2025 EBD’s top selection is the ultimate luxury and lifestyle escape and has been officially awarded the title of Best Destination in Europe 2025, a recognition voted by tourism professionals and travelers as the Must-See Destination of the Year. The famous city on the French Riviera leads the way in sustainable luxury travel, with a commitment to marine conservation, green tourism and eco-conscious urban development. Its victory reflects a growing traveler preference for destinations that seamlessly combine exclusivity with sustainability. The preferred destination for couples aged 25 to 45, Monaco has received more votes than any other Riviera destination since the competition’s inception. The principality’s blend of sustainability, luxury, culture, gastronomy, wellness, sport and year-round events makes it an exceptional experience for a romantic getaway, a family retreat or an exclusive escape. “Explore the historic charm of Monaco, marvel at the legendary Place du Casino, or unwind at the Larvotto seaside complex, where luxury meets the Mediterranean. Enjoy Michelin-starred dining, vibrant cultural events, and a commitment to sustainable tourism,” EBD recommends. City Hall Square in the Old Town of Riga, Latvia City Hall Square with House of the Blackheads and Saint Peter church in Old Town of Riga, Latvia getty 2. Riga, Latvia The #2 Best European Destination also won the tile of Hottest City Break 2025. Latvia’s capital combines historic charm with a modern, vibrant atmosphere, making it a favorite for globetrotters seeking an inspiring destination. Known as the "Paris of the North," Riga offers a rich blend of Art Nouveau architecture, nature, shopping, gastronomy and vibrant cultural events. Riga, Rising Star of the Baltics, was also voted best Baltic destination and has been gaining significant momentum on the European travel scene. Recognized as one of the Top 5 European Destinations in 2024, Riga saw a 14% increase in visitors, making it one of Europe’s most up-and-coming cities. In its Old Historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, medieval landmarks such as the House of the Blackheads and Riga Cathedral take you back in time. “For a taste of Riga’s artistic soul, explore the trendy Mieraiela district, brimming with artisan shops, galleries, and cozy cafés,” notes EBD. “Food lovers will find Riga a culinary haven, from its traditional Latvian dishes to its modern fine dining scene, while Riga Central Market offers a sensory journey through local flavors. In the evening, unwind at one of Riga’s many rooftop bars with stunning views of the city. Riga’s unique appeal lies in its harmonious blend of old and new. Visitors can relax by the tranquil Daugava River, take a stroll through the lush Kronvalda Park, or explore the Latvian National Museum of Art for a deep dive into the country’s heritage. The city also boasts a thriving nightlife. Whether you're visiting for the annual Riga Opera Festival or the enchanting Christmas markets, Riga promises unforgettable experiences year-round.” Dubrovnik, Fronting, The ,Adriatic ,Sea, Dubrovnik, the "Pearl of the Adriatic," is one of the Best European Destinations for 2025 EBD 3. Dubrovnik & Cavtat, Croatia Dubrovnik & the Hidden Luxury of Cavtat in Croatia were voted #3 Best European Destination. Dubrovnik, in the southern part of the country by the Adriatic Sea, is one of the most prominent tourist destinations of the Mediterranean. Known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," it has all the features to enchant visitors: ancient city walls, crystal-clear waters, and a rich cultural heritage. The old city of Dubrovnik, a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, baroque buildings and charming squares, is a UNESCO-listed site, a favorite for history lovers but also a top-tier luxury destination with five-star hotels, gourmet dining and exclusive island escapes. This year, Dubrovnik and Cavtat competed jointly, showcasing their unique blend of historic grandeur and peaceful exclusivity. Often dubbed the “New St. Tropez,” Cavtat is a rising star in sustainable luxury tourism, offering a retreat at its pristine beaches and elegant boutique hotels. With 24% of American travelers voting for Cavtat, it’s one of the best destinations for an affordable yet exclusive European escape. “Stroll along the famous city walls for breathtaking Adriatic views, explore Lovrijenac Fortress and the Rector’s Palace, or take a short boat ride to the island of Lokrum, a tranquil escape with lush gardens and hidden coves,” EBD advises. For ultimate exclusivity and luxury, visit Cavtat, a short drive from Dubrovnik. Awarded the title of Most Exclusive Destination in Europe, it offers a more intimate escape from the crowds. With its picturesque marina, elegant waterfront and charming historic town, it’s also home to the Most Beautiful Bay in Europe. For beach lovers, Dubrovnik’s coastline, from the sandy shores of Banje Beach to the crystal-clear waters of Sveti Jakov, offers plenty of alternativess for sunbathing, swimming and water sports. Pavement cafes in Madrid's Plaza Mayor People enjoying outdoor cafes in Madrid's Plaza Mayor getty 4. Madrid, Spain Madrid, made it to #4 of the Best Destinations in Europe for 2025. A city where tradition meets modernity, it’s an irresistible choice for travelers. Spain’s vibrant capital offers a unique blend of rich history, cutting-edge art, world-class dining, lively night life and an electric energy that never stops. “With trendy new hotspots, in 2025 Madrid is more alive than ever,” writes EBD. “Stroll through the iconic Gran Vía, a paradise for shopping and architecture lovers, or explore the historic Barrio de las Letras, brimming with literary history and charming streets. Art enthusiasts will be captivated by the Prado Museum, Reina Sofía Museum, and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum that form the world-famous ‘Golden Triangle of Art. “Madrid offers a rich gastronomic experience, from Michelin-starred restaurants to authentic tapas bars as well as trendy rooftop terraces. For those seeking special experiences, visit the lush El Retiro Park for a leisurely boat ride, catch a flamenco performance or enjoy the buzzing nightlife in neighborhoods like Malasaña and Chueca. Madrid’s lively calendar of events, including festivals like San Isidro or Design Week, ensures there’s always something exciting happening.” Panoramic View of Medieval Citadel in Namur, Belgium. Panoramic View of the Medieval Citadel in Namur, Belgium, from the River getty 5. Namur, Belgium Ranked 5th among the Best European Destinations 2025, Namur is experiencing a true renaissance, evolving into one of the most dynamic and forward-thinking destinations in Europe. A unique fusion of elegance and nature Namur, the capital of French-speaking Wallonia, has emerged as the perfect romantic and cultural getaway. Located at the confluence of the Meuse and Sambre rivers, it offers a mix of heritage, gastronomy and outdoor adventure. Particularly popular among culture lovers, nature enthusiasts and couples looking for a romantic escape. Namur has also been voted “Best City Break in Europe 2025” by travelers. Once a hidden gem, it’s now a thriving hub of innovation, sustainability and culture, attracting both travelers and investors attracted to a city on the rise. Namur stands out as one of the best cities to live in due to its green spaces, strong commitment to zero-carbon initiatives and thriving start-up ecosystem. With its boutique hotels, high-end gastronomic restaurants, and trendy bars, it’s also a Romantic & Cultural Getaway for 2025. The Next 5 European Best Destinations Bicycles parked next to the canal in Amsterdam, Holland Bicycles parked next to a canal in Amsterdam, Holland getty 6. Amsterdam, The Netherlands The Ultimate Year-Round Destination for Culture, Charm & Sustainability, Amsterdam, continues to offer a vibrant blend of heritage and innovation. “Wander its iconic canals, where 17th-century charm meets modern design, and explore neighborhoods like Jordaan and De Pijp, brimming with markets, boutiques and cozy cafés,” EBD notes. From spring tulip fields to summer festivals, autumn canal strolls, and winter’s magical light displays, Amsterdam invites visitors all year. Cycle through Vondelpark, savor local treats like stroopwafels and visit cultural landmarks including the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House. The city is also a hub for sustainable tourism, with a focus on green transportation and eco-friendly accommodations A street in the coastal town of Olhão, a hidden gem in Portugal's Algarve. The coastal town of Olhão, a hidden gem in Portugal's Algarve Shutterstock 7. Olhao, Portugal An Algarve Hidden Gem, Portugal’s coastal town of Olhão offers traditional charm and luxurious experiences. “Wander the cobbled streets of its historic Old Town, explore vibrant markets brimming with fresh seafood, and take a boat trip to the golden sands of nearby Barrier Islands like Armona and Culatra,” enthuses EBD. “Savor Olhão’s thriving culinary scene, from seafood cataplana to fine dining, paired with local wines. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the stunning Ria Formosa Natural Park, ideal for kayaking and birdwatching. With its relaxed vibe and rich culture, Olhão offers an unforgettable escape.” A couple enjoying a beautiful view of island Mljet, Croatia Visitors enjoying Mljet island in Croatia. This is part of Mljet National Park, the oldest protected marine area in the Mediterranean getty 8. Mljet Island, Croatia Croatia’s Green Pearl, Mljet Island, is a hidden gem with untouched nature, crystal-clear waters and peaceful ambiance for those seeking relaxation, adventure and authentic experiences. Its Mljet National Park, the oldest protected marine area in the Mediterranean, features Veliko and Malo Jezero, saltwater lakes surrounded by lush forests and pristine beaches such as Saplunara ideal for swimming, snorkeling and kayaking. “Hike or bike through the island's scenic trails and charming villages, and savor fresh seafood, local olive oil, and wines at cozy taverns,” writes EBD. “Known for its commitment to sustainability, Mljet offers a slower pace of life and a chance to reconnect with nature.” A colorful street in old town Lisbon, Portugal. A colorful street in old town Lisbon, Portugal Armando-Oliveira, EBD 9. Lisbon, Portugal The vibrant charm of Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, is found in its cobblestone streets, colorful tiles and breathtaking views that meet a dynamic cultural scene. Says EBD: “Stroll through historic neighborhoods like Alfama, with its soulful Fado music, and Baixa, home to grand plazas and lively Bairro Alto. Savor Lisbon’s culinary delights, from traditional dishes like bacalhau to the iconic pastéis de nata. Explore landmarks like the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, or ride Tram 28 to scenic viewpoints. Just beyond the city, golden beaches and Sintra’s fairytale landscapes await, making Lisbon the perfect blend of history, flavor, and adventure.” Aerial photo of Voutoumi Bay and beach in Antipaxos, Greece Aerial photo of Voutoumi Bay and beach in Antipaxos, Greece Shutterstock 10. Antipaxos, Greece This is one of Greece's Hidden Paradises for Serenity & Seaside Luxury On the small island of Antipaxos, a hidden gem in Greece about three kilometers south of Paxos, turquoise waters, untouched charm and serene luxury beckon. A short boat ride from Paxos, Antipaxos offers breathtaking beaches like Voutoumi and Vrika for swimming, snorkeling or sunbathing in peace. Indulge in the island’s renowned wines and fresh seafood at charming seaside tavernas, blending authentic flavors with stunning views. Wander scenic trails through olive groves and vineyards, offering vistas of the Ionian Sea. Whether for nature lovers or couples, Antipaxos promises a secluded and beautiful getaway. The Next 10 European Best Destinations For 2025 Include: 11. Dhermi, Albania 12. Bath, UK 13. Folegandros, Greece 14. Istanbul, Turkey 15. Eze, France 16. Ascona, Switzerland 17. Alesund, Norway 18. Cassis, France 19. Seville, Spain 20. Porto-Montenegro, Montenegro All 20 winners of this year’s

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    The 20 ‘European Best Destinations’ For 2025: Monaco Tops New Report The European Best Destinations organization has revealed its highly anticipated report on the trendiest places in Europe to visit this year, based on a record number of votes from more than 1.2 million travelers across 158 countries. Selected from 500-plus destinations, the new, tempting list includes hidden gems, exclusive coastal towns, preserved nature escapes, romantic getaways, city breaks, family vacations, exclusive islands and wellness retreats. The 20 shortlisted European Best Destinations were selected for their quality of life, sustainable development, year-round cultural offer, growth of popularity on social networks and their international recognition (winners of Smart tourism, EU Green Capital, UNESCO, Zero Carbon Emission Commitment, EU Capital of Culture, Blue Flags and more). ForbesThe 20 Best European Destinations In 2024: Marbella Tops Travel SurveyBy Cecilia Rodriguez Monaco tops the list with an unmatched 115,891 votes—98% of them by international travelers—making it the most globally-endorsed destination in the competition’s history. “This sun-soaked, five-star escape embodies everything discerning travelers seek in 2025: sustainable luxury, nature, wellness, gastronomy, conservation, sports activities and designer shopping,” EBD explained. Riga, Latvia’s capital, snared second place and was also selected as the Best Baltic Destination, followed by Dubrovnik & Cavtat in Croatia, Madrid, and Namur in Belgium in the first five places. With Amsterdam, Olhão in Portugal, Ascona in Italy, Bath in England, the sustainable luxury Greek island of Antipaxos, and Seville, Spain among others, the 2025 selection, according to EBD, “perfectly reflects modern travelers’ evolving desires—a mix of exclusive retreats, cultural treasures, romantic escapes and sun-kissed coastal gems. ForbesTravel Photographer Of The Year: Beautiful, Inspiring Award-Winning ImagesBy Cecilia Rodriguez From the majestic streets of Madrid to the crystal-clear waters of Antipaxos, from the cultural richness of Riga to the elegance of Monaco, this year’s selection proves that Europe remains the world’s most diverse and captivating continent for travel.” In partnership with more than 500 tourism offices in Europe and the EDEN Network (Sustainable Destinations awarded by the European Commission), European Best Destinations has billed itself as the most influential travel competition in Europe for the past 14 consecutive years. Monaco, elected European Best Destination 2025 Monaco has been elected The European Best Destination for 2025. EBD 1. Monaco, Best European Destination 2025 EBD’s top selection is the ultimate luxury and lifestyle escape and has been officially awarded the title of Best Destination in Europe 2025, a recognition voted by tourism professionals and travelers as the Must-See Destination of the Year. The famous city on the French Riviera leads the way in sustainable luxury travel, with a commitment to marine conservation, green tourism and eco-conscious urban development. Its victory reflects a growing traveler preference for destinations that seamlessly combine exclusivity with sustainability. The preferred destination for couples aged 25 to 45, Monaco has received more votes than any other Riviera destination since the competition’s inception. The principality’s blend of sustainability, luxury, culture, gastronomy, wellness, sport and year-round events makes it an exceptional experience for a romantic getaway, a family retreat or an exclusive escape. “Explore the historic charm of Monaco, marvel at the legendary Place du Casino, or unwind at the Larvotto seaside complex, where luxury meets the Mediterranean. Enjoy Michelin-starred dining, vibrant cultural events, and a commitment to sustainable tourism,” EBD recommends. City Hall Square in the Old Town of Riga, Latvia City Hall Square with House of the Blackheads and Saint Peter church in Old Town of Riga, Latvia getty 2. Riga, Latvia The #2 Best European Destination also won the tile of Hottest City Break 2025. Latvia’s capital combines historic charm with a modern, vibrant atmosphere, making it a favorite for globetrotters seeking an inspiring destination. Known as the "Paris of the North," Riga offers a rich blend of Art Nouveau architecture, nature, shopping, gastronomy and vibrant cultural events. Riga, Rising Star of the Baltics, was also voted best Baltic destination and has been gaining significant momentum on the European travel scene. Recognized as one of the Top 5 European Destinations in 2024, Riga saw a 14% increase in visitors, making it one of Europe’s most up-and-coming cities. In its Old Historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, medieval landmarks such as the House of the Blackheads and Riga Cathedral take you back in time. “For a taste of Riga’s artistic soul, explore the trendy Mieraiela district, brimming with artisan shops, galleries, and cozy cafés,” notes EBD. “Food lovers will find Riga a culinary haven, from its traditional Latvian dishes to its modern fine dining scene, while Riga Central Market offers a sensory journey through local flavors. In the evening, unwind at one of Riga’s many rooftop bars with stunning views of the city. Riga’s unique appeal lies in its harmonious blend of old and new. Visitors can relax by the tranquil Daugava River, take a stroll through the lush Kronvalda Park, or explore the Latvian National Museum of Art for a deep dive into the country’s heritage. The city also boasts a thriving nightlife. Whether you're visiting for the annual Riga Opera Festival or the enchanting Christmas markets, Riga promises unforgettable experiences year-round.” Dubrovnik, Fronting, The ,Adriatic ,Sea, Dubrovnik, the "Pearl of the Adriatic," is one of the Best European Destinations for 2025 EBD 3. Dubrovnik & Cavtat, Croatia Dubrovnik & the Hidden Luxury of Cavtat in Croatia were voted #3 Best European Destination. Dubrovnik, in the southern part of the country by the Adriatic Sea, is one of the most prominent tourist destinations of the Mediterranean. Known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," it has all the features to enchant visitors: ancient city walls, crystal-clear waters, and a rich cultural heritage. The old city of Dubrovnik, a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, baroque buildings and charming squares, is a UNESCO-listed site, a favorite for history lovers but also a top-tier luxury destination with five-star hotels, gourmet dining and exclusive island escapes. This year, Dubrovnik and Cavtat competed jointly, showcasing their unique blend of historic grandeur and peaceful exclusivity. Often dubbed the “New St. Tropez,” Cavtat is a rising star in sustainable luxury tourism, offering a retreat at its pristine beaches and elegant boutique hotels. With 24% of American travelers voting for Cavtat, it’s one of the best destinations for an affordable yet exclusive European escape. “Stroll along the famous city walls for breathtaking Adriatic views, explore Lovrijenac Fortress and the Rector’s Palace, or take a short boat ride to the island of Lokrum, a tranquil escape with lush gardens and hidden coves,” EBD advises. For ultimate exclusivity and luxury, visit Cavtat, a short drive from Dubrovnik. Awarded the title of Most Exclusive Destination in Europe, it offers a more intimate escape from the crowds. With its picturesque marina, elegant waterfront and charming historic town, it’s also home to the Most Beautiful Bay in Europe. For beach lovers, Dubrovnik’s coastline, from the sandy shores of Banje Beach to the crystal-clear waters of Sveti Jakov, offers plenty of alternativess for sunbathing, swimming and water sports. Pavement cafes in Madrid's Plaza Mayor People enjoying outdoor cafes in Madrid's Plaza Mayor getty 4. Madrid, Spain Madrid, made it to #4 of the Best Destinations in Europe for 2025. A city where tradition meets modernity, it’s an irresistible choice for travelers. Spain’s vibrant capital offers a unique blend of rich history, cutting-edge art, world-class dining, lively night life and an electric energy that never stops. “With trendy new hotspots, in 2025 Madrid is more alive than ever,” writes EBD. “Stroll through the iconic Gran Vía, a paradise for shopping and architecture lovers, or explore the historic Barrio de las Letras, brimming with literary history and charming streets. Art enthusiasts will be captivated by the Prado Museum, Reina Sofía Museum, and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum that form the world-famous ‘Golden Triangle of Art. “Madrid offers a rich gastronomic experience, from Michelin-starred restaurants to authentic tapas bars as well as trendy rooftop terraces. For those seeking special experiences, visit the lush El Retiro Park for a leisurely boat ride, catch a flamenco performance or enjoy the buzzing nightlife in neighborhoods like Malasaña and Chueca. Madrid’s lively calendar of events, including festivals like San Isidro or Design Week, ensures there’s always something exciting happening.” Panoramic View of Medieval Citadel in Namur, Belgium. Panoramic View of the Medieval Citadel in Namur, Belgium, from the River getty 5. Namur, Belgium Ranked 5th among the Best European Destinations 2025, Namur is experiencing a true renaissance, evolving into one of the most dynamic and forward-thinking destinations in Europe. A unique fusion of elegance and nature Namur, the capital of French-speaking Wallonia, has emerged as the perfect romantic and cultural getaway. Located at the confluence of the Meuse and Sambre rivers, it offers a mix of heritage, gastronomy and outdoor adventure. Particularly popular among culture lovers, nature enthusiasts and couples looking for a romantic escape. Namur has also been voted “Best City Break in Europe 2025” by travelers. Once a hidden gem, it’s now a thriving hub of innovation, sustainability and culture, attracting both travelers and investors attracted to a city on the rise. Namur stands out as one of the best cities to live in due to its green spaces, strong commitment to zero-carbon initiatives and thriving start-up ecosystem. With its boutique hotels, high-end gastronomic restaurants, and trendy bars, it’s also a Romantic & Cultural Getaway for 2025. The Next 5 European Best Destinations Bicycles parked next to the canal in Amsterdam, Holland Bicycles parked next to a canal in Amsterdam, Holland getty 6. Amsterdam, The Netherlands The Ultimate Year-Round Destination for Culture, Charm & Sustainability, Amsterdam, continues to offer a vibrant blend of heritage and innovation. “Wander its iconic canals, where 17th-century charm meets modern design, and explore neighborhoods like Jordaan and De Pijp, brimming with markets, boutiques and cozy cafés,” EBD notes. From spring tulip fields to summer festivals, autumn canal strolls, and winter’s magical light displays, Amsterdam invites visitors all year. Cycle through Vondelpark, savor local treats like stroopwafels and visit cultural landmarks including the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House. The city is also a hub for sustainable tourism, with a focus on green transportation and eco-friendly accommodations A street in the coastal town of Olhão, a hidden gem in Portugal's Algarve. The coastal town of Olhão, a hidden gem in Portugal's Algarve Shutterstock 7. Olhao, Portugal An Algarve Hidden Gem, Portugal’s coastal town of Olhão offers traditional charm and luxurious experiences. “Wander the cobbled streets of its historic Old Town, explore vibrant markets brimming with fresh seafood, and take a boat trip to the golden sands of nearby Barrier Islands like Armona and Culatra,” enthuses EBD. “Savor Olhão’s thriving culinary scene, from seafood cataplana to fine dining, paired with local wines. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the stunning Ria Formosa Natural Park, ideal for kayaking and birdwatching. With its relaxed vibe and rich culture, Olhão offers an unforgettable escape.” A couple enjoying a beautiful view of island Mljet, Croatia Visitors enjoying Mljet island in Croatia. This is part of Mljet National Park, the oldest protected marine area in the Mediterranean getty 8. Mljet Island, Croatia Croatia’s Green Pearl, Mljet Island, is a hidden gem with untouched nature, crystal-clear waters and peaceful ambiance for those seeking relaxation, adventure and authentic experiences. Its Mljet National Park, the oldest protected marine area in the Mediterranean, features Veliko and Malo Jezero, saltwater lakes surrounded by lush forests and pristine beaches such as Saplunara ideal for swimming, snorkeling and kayaking. “Hike or bike through the island's scenic trails and charming villages, and savor fresh seafood, local olive oil, and wines at cozy taverns,” writes EBD. “Known for its commitment to sustainability, Mljet offers a slower pace of life and a chance to reconnect with nature.” A colorful street in old town Lisbon, Portugal. A colorful street in old town Lisbon, Portugal Armando-Oliveira, EBD 9. Lisbon, Portugal The vibrant charm of Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, is found in its cobblestone streets, colorful tiles and breathtaking views that meet a dynamic cultural scene. Says EBD: “Stroll through historic neighborhoods like Alfama, with its soulful Fado music, and Baixa, home to grand plazas and lively Bairro Alto. Savor Lisbon’s culinary delights, from traditional dishes like bacalhau to the iconic pastéis de nata. Explore landmarks like the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, or ride Tram 28 to scenic viewpoints. Just beyond the city, golden beaches and Sintra’s fairytale landscapes await, making Lisbon the perfect blend of history, flavor, and adventure.” Aerial photo of Voutoumi Bay and beach in Antipaxos, Greece Aerial photo of Voutoumi Bay and beach in Antipaxos, Greece Shutterstock 10. Antipaxos, Greece This is one of Greece's Hidden Paradises for Serenity & Seaside Luxury On the small island of Antipaxos, a hidden gem in Greece about three kilometers south of Paxos, turquoise waters, untouched charm and serene luxury beckon. A short boat ride from Paxos, Antipaxos offers breathtaking beaches like Voutoumi and Vrika for swimming, snorkeling or sunbathing in peace. Indulge in the island’s renowned wines and fresh seafood at charming seaside tavernas, blending authentic flavors with stunning views. Wander scenic trails through olive groves and vineyards, offering vistas of the Ionian Sea. Whether for nature lovers or couples, Antipaxos promises a secluded and beautiful getaway. The Next 10 European Best Destinations For 2025 Include: 11. Dhermi, Albania 12. Bath, UK 13. Folegandros, Greece 14. Istanbul, Turkey 15. Eze, France 16. Ascona, Switzerland 17. Alesund, Norway 18. Cassis, France 19. Seville, Spain 20. Porto-Montenegro, Montenegro All 20 winners of this year’s

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    The 20 ‘European Best Destinations’ For 2025: Monaco Tops New Report The European Best Destinations organization has revealed its highly anticipated report on the trendiest places in Europe to visit this year, based on a record number of votes from more than 1.2 million travelers across 158 countries. Selected from 500-plus destinations, the new, tempting list includes hidden gems, exclusive coastal towns, preserved nature escapes, romantic getaways, city breaks, family vacations, exclusive islands and wellness retreats. The 20 shortlisted European Best Destinations were selected for their quality of life, sustainable development, year-round cultural offer, growth of popularity on social networks and their international recognition (winners of Smart tourism, EU Green Capital, UNESCO, Zero Carbon Emission Commitment, EU Capital of Culture, Blue Flags and more). ForbesThe 20 Best European Destinations In 2024: Marbella Tops Travel SurveyBy Cecilia Rodriguez Monaco tops the list with an unmatched 115,891 votes—98% of them by international travelers—making it the most globally-endorsed destination in the competition’s history. “This sun-soaked, five-star escape embodies everything discerning travelers seek in 2025: sustainable luxury, nature, wellness, gastronomy, conservation, sports activities and designer shopping,” EBD explained. Riga, Latvia’s capital, snared second place and was also selected as the Best Baltic Destination, followed by Dubrovnik & Cavtat in Croatia, Madrid, and Namur in Belgium in the first five places. With Amsterdam, Olhão in Portugal, Ascona in Italy, Bath in England, the sustainable luxury Greek island of Antipaxos, and Seville, Spain among others, the 2025 selection, according to EBD, “perfectly reflects modern travelers’ evolving desires—a mix of exclusive retreats, cultural treasures, romantic escapes and sun-kissed coastal gems. ForbesTravel Photographer Of The Year: Beautiful, Inspiring Award-Winning ImagesBy Cecilia Rodriguez From the majestic streets of Madrid to the crystal-clear waters of Antipaxos, from the cultural richness of Riga to the elegance of Monaco, this year’s selection proves that Europe remains the world’s most diverse and captivating continent for travel.” In partnership with more than 500 tourism offices in Europe and the EDEN Network (Sustainable Destinations awarded by the European Commission), European Best Destinations has billed itself as the most influential travel competition in Europe for the past 14 consecutive years. Monaco, elected European Best Destination 2025 Monaco has been elected The European Best Destination for 2025. EBD 1. Monaco, Best European Destination 2025 EBD’s top selection is the ultimate luxury and lifestyle escape and has been officially awarded the title of Best Destination in Europe 2025, a recognition voted by tourism professionals and travelers as the Must-See Destination of the Year. The famous city on the French Riviera leads the way in sustainable luxury travel, with a commitment to marine conservation, green tourism and eco-conscious urban development. Its victory reflects a growing traveler preference for destinations that seamlessly combine exclusivity with sustainability. The preferred destination for couples aged 25 to 45, Monaco has received more votes than any other Riviera destination since the competition’s inception. The principality’s blend of sustainability, luxury, culture, gastronomy, wellness, sport and year-round events makes it an exceptional experience for a romantic getaway, a family retreat or an exclusive escape. “Explore the historic charm of Monaco, marvel at the legendary Place du Casino, or unwind at the Larvotto seaside complex, where luxury meets the Mediterranean. Enjoy Michelin-starred dining, vibrant cultural events, and a commitment to sustainable tourism,” EBD recommends. City Hall Square in the Old Town of Riga, Latvia City Hall Square with House of the Blackheads and Saint Peter church in Old Town of Riga, Latvia getty 2. Riga, Latvia The #2 Best European Destination also won the tile of Hottest City Break 2025. Latvia’s capital combines historic charm with a modern, vibrant atmosphere, making it a favorite for globetrotters seeking an inspiring destination. Known as the "Paris of the North," Riga offers a rich blend of Art Nouveau architecture, nature, shopping, gastronomy and vibrant cultural events. Riga, Rising Star of the Baltics, was also voted best Baltic destination and has been gaining significant momentum on the European travel scene. Recognized as one of the Top 5 European Destinations in 2024, Riga saw a 14% increase in visitors, making it one of Europe’s most up-and-coming cities. In its Old Historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, medieval landmarks such as the House of the Blackheads and Riga Cathedral take you back in time. “For a taste of Riga’s artistic soul, explore the trendy Mieraiela district, brimming with artisan shops, galleries, and cozy cafés,” notes EBD. “Food lovers will find Riga a culinary haven, from its traditional Latvian dishes to its modern fine dining scene, while Riga Central Market offers a sensory journey through local flavors. In the evening, unwind at one of Riga’s many rooftop bars with stunning views of the city. Riga’s unique appeal lies in its harmonious blend of old and new. Visitors can relax by the tranquil Daugava River, take a stroll through the lush Kronvalda Park, or explore the Latvian National Museum of Art for a deep dive into the country’s heritage. The city also boasts a thriving nightlife. Whether you're visiting for the annual Riga Opera Festival or the enchanting Christmas markets, Riga promises unforgettable experiences year-round.” Dubrovnik, Fronting, The ,Adriatic ,Sea, Dubrovnik, the "Pearl of the Adriatic," is one of the Best European Destinations for 2025 EBD 3. Dubrovnik & Cavtat, Croatia Dubrovnik & the Hidden Luxury of Cavtat in Croatia were voted #3 Best European Destination. Dubrovnik, in the southern part of the country by the Adriatic Sea, is one of the most prominent tourist destinations of the Mediterranean. Known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," it has all the features to enchant visitors: ancient city walls, crystal-clear waters, and a rich cultural heritage. The old city of Dubrovnik, a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, baroque buildings and charming squares, is a UNESCO-listed site, a favorite for history lovers but also a top-tier luxury destination with five-star hotels, gourmet dining and exclusive island escapes. This year, Dubrovnik and Cavtat competed jointly, showcasing their unique blend of historic grandeur and peaceful exclusivity. Often dubbed the “New St. Tropez,” Cavtat is a rising star in sustainable luxury tourism, offering a retreat at its pristine beaches and elegant boutique hotels. With 24% of American travelers voting for Cavtat, it’s one of the best destinations for an affordable yet exclusive European escape. “Stroll along the famous city walls for breathtaking Adriatic views, explore Lovrijenac Fortress and the Rector’s Palace, or take a short boat ride to the island of Lokrum, a tranquil escape with lush gardens and hidden coves,” EBD advises. For ultimate exclusivity and luxury, visit Cavtat, a short drive from Dubrovnik. Awarded the title of Most Exclusive Destination in Europe, it offers a more intimate escape from the crowds. With its picturesque marina, elegant waterfront and charming historic town, it’s also home to the Most Beautiful Bay in Europe. For beach lovers, Dubrovnik’s coastline, from the sandy shores of Banje Beach to the crystal-clear waters of Sveti Jakov, offers plenty of alternativess for sunbathing, swimming and water sports. Pavement cafes in Madrid's Plaza Mayor People enjoying outdoor cafes in Madrid's Plaza Mayor getty 4. Madrid, Spain Madrid, made it to #4 of the Best Destinations in Europe for 2025. A city where tradition meets modernity, it’s an irresistible choice for travelers. Spain’s vibrant capital offers a unique blend of rich history, cutting-edge art, world-class dining, lively night life and an electric energy that never stops. “With trendy new hotspots, in 2025 Madrid is more alive than ever,” writes EBD. “Stroll through the iconic Gran Vía, a paradise for shopping and architecture lovers, or explore the historic Barrio de las Letras, brimming with literary history and charming streets. Art enthusiasts will be captivated by the Prado Museum, Reina Sofía Museum, and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum that form the world-famous ‘Golden Triangle of Art. “Madrid offers a rich gastronomic experience, from Michelin-starred restaurants to authentic tapas bars as well as trendy rooftop terraces. For those seeking special experiences, visit the lush El Retiro Park for a leisurely boat ride, catch a flamenco performance or enjoy the buzzing nightlife in neighborhoods like Malasaña and Chueca. Madrid’s lively calendar of events, including festivals like San Isidro or Design Week, ensures there’s always something exciting happening.” Panoramic View of Medieval Citadel in Namur, Belgium. Panoramic View of the Medieval Citadel in Namur, Belgium, from the River getty 5. Namur, Belgium Ranked 5th among the Best European Destinations 2025, Namur is experiencing a true renaissance, evolving into one of the most dynamic and forward-thinking destinations in Europe. A unique fusion of elegance and nature Namur, the capital of French-speaking Wallonia, has emerged as the perfect romantic and cultural getaway. Located at the confluence of the Meuse and Sambre rivers, it offers a mix of heritage, gastronomy and outdoor adventure. Particularly popular among culture lovers, nature enthusiasts and couples looking for a romantic escape. Namur has also been voted “Best City Break in Europe 2025” by travelers. Once a hidden gem, it’s now a thriving hub of innovation, sustainability and culture, attracting both travelers and investors attracted to a city on the rise. Namur stands out as one of the best cities to live in due to its green spaces, strong commitment to zero-carbon initiatives and thriving start-up ecosystem. With its boutique hotels, high-end gastronomic restaurants, and trendy bars, it’s also a Romantic & Cultural Getaway for 2025. The Next 5 European Best Destinations Bicycles parked next to the canal in Amsterdam, Holland Bicycles parked next to a canal in Amsterdam, Holland getty 6. Amsterdam, The Netherlands The Ultimate Year-Round Destination for Culture, Charm & Sustainability, Amsterdam, continues to offer a vibrant blend of heritage and innovation. “Wander its iconic canals, where 17th-century charm meets modern design, and explore neighborhoods like Jordaan and De Pijp, brimming with markets, boutiques and cozy cafés,” EBD notes. From spring tulip fields to summer festivals, autumn canal strolls, and winter’s magical light displays, Amsterdam invites visitors all year. Cycle through Vondelpark, savor local treats like stroopwafels and visit cultural landmarks including the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House. The city is also a hub for sustainable tourism, with a focus on green transportation and eco-friendly accommodations A street in the coastal town of Olhão, a hidden gem in Portugal's Algarve. The coastal town of Olhão, a hidden gem in Portugal's Algarve Shutterstock 7. Olhao, Portugal An Algarve Hidden Gem, Portugal’s coastal town of Olhão offers traditional charm and luxurious experiences. “Wander the cobbled streets of its historic Old Town, explore vibrant markets brimming with fresh seafood, and take a boat trip to the golden sands of nearby Barrier Islands like Armona and Culatra,” enthuses EBD. “Savor Olhão’s thriving culinary scene, from seafood cataplana to fine dining, paired with local wines. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the stunning Ria Formosa Natural Park, ideal for kayaking and birdwatching. With its relaxed vibe and rich culture, Olhão offers an unforgettable escape.” A couple enjoying a beautiful view of island Mljet, Croatia Visitors enjoying Mljet island in Croatia. This is part of Mljet National Park, the oldest protected marine area in the Mediterranean getty 8. Mljet Island, Croatia Croatia’s Green Pearl, Mljet Island, is a hidden gem with untouched nature, crystal-clear waters and peaceful ambiance for those seeking relaxation, adventure and authentic experiences. Its Mljet National Park, the oldest protected marine area in the Mediterranean, features Veliko and Malo Jezero, saltwater lakes surrounded by lush forests and pristine beaches such as Saplunara ideal for swimming, snorkeling and kayaking. “Hike or bike through the island's scenic trails and charming villages, and savor fresh seafood, local olive oil, and wines at cozy taverns,” writes EBD. “Known for its commitment to sustainability, Mljet offers a slower pace of life and a chance to reconnect with nature.” A colorful street in old town Lisbon, Portugal. A colorful street in old town Lisbon, Portugal Armando-Oliveira, EBD 9. Lisbon, Portugal The vibrant charm of Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, is found in its cobblestone streets, colorful tiles and breathtaking views that meet a dynamic cultural scene. Says EBD: “Stroll through historic neighborhoods like Alfama, with its soulful Fado music, and Baixa, home to grand plazas and lively Bairro Alto. Savor Lisbon’s culinary delights, from traditional dishes like bacalhau to the iconic pastéis de nata. Explore landmarks like the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, or ride Tram 28 to scenic viewpoints. Just beyond the city, golden beaches and Sintra’s fairytale landscapes await, making Lisbon the perfect blend of history, flavor, and adventure.” Aerial photo of Voutoumi Bay and beach in Antipaxos, Greece Aerial photo of Voutoumi Bay and beach in Antipaxos, Greece Shutterstock 10. Antipaxos, Greece This is one of Greece's Hidden Paradises for Serenity & Seaside Luxury On the small island of Antipaxos, a hidden gem in Greece about three kilometers south of Paxos, turquoise waters, untouched charm and serene luxury beckon. A short boat ride from Paxos, Antipaxos offers breathtaking beaches like Voutoumi and Vrika for swimming, snorkeling or sunbathing in peace. Indulge in the island’s renowned wines and fresh seafood at charming seaside tavernas, blending authentic flavors with stunning views. Wander scenic trails through olive groves and vineyards, offering vistas of the Ionian Sea. Whether for nature lovers or couples, Antipaxos promises a secluded and beautiful getaway. The Next 10 European Best Destinations For 2025 Include: 11. Dhermi, Albania 12. Bath, UK 13. Folegandros, Greece 14. Istanbul, Turkey 15. Eze, France 16. Ascona, Switzerland 17. Alesund, Norway 18. Cassis, France 19. Seville, Spain 20. Porto-Montenegro, Montenegro All 20 winners of this year’s

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    Malaysian Tycoon Leong Kok Wah’s Eco World Shares Jump After Microsoft Data Center Deal Jonathan Burgos Shares of Eco World Development—which counts Malaysian tycoon Leong Kok Wah among its biggest shareholders—rallied after selling another plot of land to a unit of Microsoft, entrenching the Kuala Lumpur-listed developer’s with data center operators. Microsoft Payments earlier this week agreed to buy a 138.5-acre (560,489 square meters) plot at Eco World’s business park in Iskandar region in the southern Malaysian state of Johor for 694 million ringgit ($154 million). The U.S. tech giant plans to build a data center on the property as part of its $2.2 billion investment commitment to scale up its digital infrastructure in the country in the next few years. “Microsoft Payments proposed to develop data centers on the land, which would increase the attractiveness of Eco World’s business park,” Jessica Low, an analyst at MIDF Research in Kuala Lumpur, wrote in a research note on Tuesday. She upgraded her rating on the stock to buy from neutral. Eco World’s business parks have been luring tech giants, with the company raising more than 1.3 billion ringgit last year from the sale of industrial lots to data center operators. It sold 123 acres of land to Microsoft in Johor in June last year. Two months later, it sold another 57 acres to Warburg Pincus-backed Princeton Digital Group. Eco World shares gained 3.7% to 1.99 ringgit apiece in late afternoon trading in Kuala Lumpur, heading for a second day of advance. The stock has also been rising after the company took full ownership of privately held Paragon Pinnacle, developer of a mixed-use residential and commercial project and an integrated business park in Puncak Alam, Selangor, about 30 kilometers southwest of Kuala Lumpur. Malaysia is at the epicenter of the data center boom in Southeast Asia, with global technology giants drawn to the country’s ample supply of affordable real estate and electricity. Besides Microsoft, several international players including Amazon, Google and Oracle are scaling up their data center operations in the country as the rapid adoption of AI and cloud computing drives demand for the digital infrastructure. Local developers such as Eco World are also cashing in on the digital infrastructure boom. Besides selling land to data center operators, Maybank expects the company to evolve as a data center building landlord, developing a new recurring revenue stream from long term lease contracts. “Eco World is actively in talks with data center players and may secure 1-2 deals at its business parks in Klang Valley and Johor,” Wong Wei Sum, an analyst at Maybank in Kuala Lumpur, wrote in a note. Eco World, which develops townships, business parks and high-rise apartments in Malaysia, also has presence in Melbourne, London, Singapore and Sydney. Leong, who has been deputy chairman of the since 2013, holds a substantial stake in the company. The self-made real estate tycoon has a net worth of $340 million, according to Forbes’ data

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    How Great Leaders Bring Core Values To Life When leaders are aware of and consistently model [+] their core values, employees notice. Getty Authentic leaders don’t just talk about values— they live them. It’s easy to list operating principles in an employee handbook or display them on office walls, but if they’re not reflected in daily actions, they’re meaningless. Don’t Talk About Core Values, Demonstrate Them Being clear about your values is essential for true self-awareness and a key step in the personal branding process. When leaders are aware of and consistently model their core values, employees notice. That’s when real cultural transformation happens. Companies that get this right create workplaces where people feel engaged, decision-making is guided by clear principles and long-term strategy stays on track. This is especially important right now as Gallup research revealed that engagement levels in organizations have sunk to a 10-year low. But what does it actually mean to lead with values? How do you make them part of everyday business decisions instead of something that gets mentioned once a year? Start with treating values as strategic assets, holding leadership accountable and using values as a foundation for innovation. Here’s how leaders can embed values in their organizations—and create lasting impact. 1. Make Values a Strategic Advantage Values shouldn’t be a nice-to-have. They should shape hiring, influence business strategy and guide daily operations. When leaders see them as a competitive advantage rather than just ideals, they build organizations that attract top talent, foster trust and sustain long-term success. Take Microsoft under Satya Nadella. When he stepped in as CEO, the company was stuck in outdated ways of thinking. Instead of making small tweaks, he championed a growth mindset—encouraging employees to experiment, collaborate and rethink how they approached problems. This shift didn’t happen because of a corporate memo, it happened because Nadella embodied those values himself. He modeled curiosity, openness and a commitment to learning — and the organization followed. 2. Build Accountability Into Culture Many companies have beautifully crafted value statements that collapsed because leadership didn’t hold themselves accountable. A list of principles means nothing if they aren’t reinforced at every level—and that starts at the top. Shawn Cole, president and partner at Cowen Partners, has spent years placing executives who align with the core principles of the organizations they serve. He’s seen the long-term success that comes from leadership teams deeply committed to their mission and values. Throughout his career, Cole has found that, “value-driven leadership isn’t something you can teach in a seminar." "People need to see it lived out,” he says. Leaders set the tone. When employees see execs making tough calls that align with stated values, it strengthens trust and credibility. One of the best ways to embed values into a company’s DNA is to tie them to hiring, performance evaluations and leadership development. When employees are recognized —through promotions, shout-outs in meetings, in LinkedIn posts, and company-wide awards—for embodying core values, it sends a powerful message to the entire organization and beyond. And let’s be clear, accountability also means owning mistakes. If a company preaches transparency but avoids tough conversations, employees notice. A strong values-driven culture isn’t about perfection, it’s about acknowledging missteps, adjusting course and staying committed. 3. Innovate Without Compromising Values Businesses evolve, but core values should stay constant. Growth and change are inevitable, but when companies abandon their principles in pursuit of short-term gains, they risk losing what made them successful in the first place. Cole has seen this challenge play out time and again. “The biggest struggle for many leaders is short-term thinking,” he says. “There’s constant pressure to deliver quick results, but the organizations that thrive long-term are the ones that stick to their values even when it’s hard and adopt an infinite mindset.” Nike provides a compelling case study. Under Phil Knight and later Mark Parker, the company operated with an infinite mindset—focusing on innovation, performance and creativity. Their leadership nurtured a culture that prioritized long-term growth over quick wins. However, after Parker’s retirement, some industry insiders noted a shift toward more transactional decision-making, raising concerns that Nike’s foundational values were becoming less central. Leadership transitions reveal whether values are truly embedded in an organization or dependent on a few key individuals. Companies that stay true to their principles, even through change, are the ones that remain strong. 4. Create Values Based Leadership that Lasts We’ve all worked for executives who see values as a box to check—something to reference in speeches but not integrate into daily decisions. Those leaders rarely build lasting legacies. The ones who do make an impact are those who exude their values in every aspect of their work. Great leaders don’t just declare a vision—they embody it. They make decisions through the lens of their company’s values, reinforcing a culture that remains intact even after leadership changes. Live Core Values To Inspire Trust Among All Stakeholders Long-term success isn’t accidental. It comes from a clear sense of purpose, a commitment to core values, and leaders who stay true to those principles—even in the face of challenges. When values guide hiring, strategy, and culture, they create organizations that inspire employees, build trust with customers, and sustain success long after today’s leaders are gone. A pioneer in personal branding and virtual presentation skills, William Arruda helps professionals stand out in the digital world. Download his free guide 9 Fun and Easy Ways to Rev Up Your Online Meetings and Presentations and transform your online events into powerful, engaging, branded experiences. Reference :

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    Meet Trump's Neighbors At Billionaire Beach At the dawn of Trump 2.0, Palm Beach is once again the center of America’s political universe. Here’s a look at the rock stars, politicians and business bigwigs who are neighbors of the 45th, and now 47th, president

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    The active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy was linked to reduced cravings for drinking alcohol among people with alcohol use disorder, according to a small study published Wednesday

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    How Jay Graber Is Making Sure Bluesky Never Turns Into Elon Musk’s X Since Elon Musk torpedoed Twitter, Bluesky has seen a stunning surge. CEO Jay Graber is working on “billionaire-proofing” social media against any similar takeover. Two months after the social network Bluesky launched in February 2023, it got its first bona fide celebrity user: the humorist known as dril. An absurdist Twitter character once described by the New Yorker as “one of America’s incisive ongoing works of social criticism,” dril had a finger on the pulse of Twitter’s decades-old chaotic energy, and that energy was headed to Bluesky. “it is real it is him,” Bluesky developer Paul Frazee posted after dril joined. Despite his nearly two million followers at the time, Elon Musk’s X was no longer working for him, dril told Forbes. “Their algorithm has been more aggressively prioritizing moronic political commentators and crypto scammers, while pushing aside the people you actually follow,” he said. “If Bluesky can market itself as a sort of last bastion against ad bots, AI crap, and nefarious algorithms, I think it'll be in a very strong position,” he continued. But “it's likely only a matter of time before one of their higher-up tech gurus decides to break the dam so all that sewage can flow in.” Bluesky was never meant to be an app — or even a company. It began as an open source research project at Twitter, a skunkworks team helmed by open internet evangelist Jay Graber. Graber’s mandate was to build a protocol, a shared language that computers could use to talk to each other, designed specifically for social media. Through the AT Protocol (or Authentic Transfer, as well as, “where you at online?”), Twitter and other companies would be able to exchange information with one another, creating an open network where posts could be freely shared across social platforms. But after Elon Musk bought Twitter, it became clear that Bluesky was no longer on its roadmap. Twitter under Musk began to transform, facing an advertiser boycott, exodus of users, and eventually a name change to X. So the team that made the protocol spun up a quick app, just to show how it might be used. They launched it as an invite-only social network in 2023. Graber began leading Bluesky two years earlier, after Parag Agrawal, who would soon become Twitter CEO, offered her the job. The move proved prophetic for Graber, who had previously worked in cryptocurrency and built social apps. Her mother, who grew up in China, gave her the first name Lantian, Mandarin for blue sky. (The similarity, however, is coincidental, as the project had already been named before Graber’s involvement.) Since its launch, Bluesky has seen unusual success: It raised a modest $15 million Series A round in October, when it had 13 million users, and since then, its user base has nearly doubled to more than 25 million. The app has panicked Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, whose own Twitter competitor, Threads, has rushed to copy many of its features. But as dril recognizes, Bluesky is a company with investors who want to make money. And that could someday clash with Graber’s user-first approach to social media: to put the people using Bluesky in control of its central features. “Open sourcing the app, the choice there was to make sure that everyone could see how we were doing this, that it was possible to build social apps at scale, and that developers could just come in and start building,” Graber told Forbes. Rather than let Bluesky itself determine what you see, in what order, and why, Graber and her team designed the app to let users create and subscribe to any number of feeds. Want to see posts from just your mutuals? There’s a feed for that. Want to see every post about gardening, or trail running, or a bottomless stream of gift links to news articles that usually have paywalls? There are feeds for those, too, and BlueSky doesn’t own them. Its users do. Bluesky’s ethos of user choice extends beyond just which feeds you choose to follow. Don’t like the company’s lack of verification? Build your own system, like Hunter Walker, a journalist at Talking Points Memo, did. Don’t want to see AI art? Crowdsource a labeling and filtering system to detect and block it. Don’t like the company’s moderation settings? Create your own — as long as you stay above the company’s permissive floor. (Illegal content, harassment, election meddling, and other hard lines are non-negotiable.) The idea of user choice even extends beyond Bluesky’s features to the idea of the app itself. If the AT Protocol catches on with other social platforms, then users will be able to frictionlessly move between platforms to the one they like best — which means Bluesky will have to compete with any number of other companies to provide the best user experience. In giving power to the people, Bluesky has so far eschewed the strategy that other social platforms have used to make billions of dollars: collecting troves of intimate data about their users and then letting advertisers target them based on that data. At least today, Bluesky is fully public, and its user data is available to people outside the company, so there’s no secret sauce for advertisers to pay for. It’s not that Graber is opposed to ads, but when it comes to social media, she said they’ve become “overly extractive.” “We think of it a bit like the resource curse: when a country discovers oil and it becomes a very profitable revenue stream, there’s this phenomenon where other industries get neglected. They don’t build out the rest of the economy.” If ads are oil, Graber doesn’t yet know what the solar, wind or hydropower sources of income for Bluesky might be. The company is preparing to test several subscription products, and has left the door open to testing some ads, too, in a way that would keep users in control. Graber is conscious of what she called “bus problems” — or, the scenarios that could happen if she and her executive team, god forbid, get hit by a bus. “We have locked things open enough that we cannot significantly degrade the user experience because we have opened the market up to entrepreneurs.” What will truly keep the AT Protocol independent, Graber said, is people other than her and her team stewarding it. She said she has started talking to standards bodies, international organizations that define each language of code, but that true decentralization — or “billionaire-proofing” as she has called it — relies on people outside of Bluesky adopting the protocol and making it their own. There are efforts to expand use of the protocol. A day after the New Year rang in, cryptic posters began appearing throughout San Francisco. The posters show a cloudy blue sky, an asterisk, and teased a website called Free Our Feeds, with a countdown clock to January 13. A source familiar with the posters said they are related to an upcoming announcement about the AT protocol. Bluesky’s DIY approach requires a bit more effort from users than X or Meta Threads. People who can’t code likely won’t be building their own feeds, verification systems or labels anytime soon — and while it doesn’t require coding, figuring out how to subscribe to other users’ creations and customize your moderation settings requires a bit of effort. But barriers to entry fade away when the product is good enough. Billionaire investor and frequent poster Mark Cuban thinks it is. He’s embraced Bluesky as a “truly social” experience: “You can post something about your day and get positive responses.” Still, his 805,000 followers on Bluesky is only a fraction of the 8.8 million he’s amassed on X. “There are lots of people I disagree with,” Cuban told Forbes, but “[t]hat is part of any engaging platform.” Still, he said, personal moderation tools like blocking or reporting “kill the incentives of trolls to troll.” Bluesky does have some moderation features that other platforms don’t have, like the option to detach a quote-post from your original post (a feature that’s largely positive but can sour if people use it to pile on a post they don’t like). But in large part, what makes moderation on Bluesky different from other platforms is how liberally its new users have employed tools that do exist — or at least used to exist — on other platforms, too. Bluesky gained half a million users in a day after X (formerly Twitter) announced that its “block” feature would no longer fully block people. Derek Guy, known online as “the menswear guy,” also praised the platform for its more civil clientele — though he confessed that the friendly atmosphere might not work as well with his personal brand: “Bluesky is a much more positive experience, but bad if you, like me, have built a following partly on dunking on idiots. There aren't as many idiots on Bluesky.”

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