escape

ENGLAND

The General Tarleton, North Yorkshire

Tommy Banks, one of Yorkshire’s favourite foodie sons, is best known as the chef behind Michelin-starred restaurant the Black Swan at Oldstead, but he’s no stranger to pubs. In fact, the Black Swan started out as one, with Banks working behind the bar of his family’s pub before graduating to the kitchen. In 2023, he opened the Abbey Inn in Byland, and he has recently launched a hospitality arm dedicated to restoring other pubs across the UK. First up is the eight-bedroom General Tarleton in the village of Ferrensby, near Harrogate. Food, naturally, is top notch with polished takes on pub classics made with local produce (steak and Black Sheep ale pie; burgers made from Dexter beef from the Banks’ farm) – the perfect fuel for walks along the river and into the Nidd Gorge, a local beauty spot.
Doubles from £175 B&B, generaltarletonferrensby.co.uk

The Bat and Ball, Oxfordshire

I am standing on what looks like a cramped, dark city street. A tavern is around a corner, a police department in front of me. And I’m lost.

That’s when I hear a whisper. “Psst.” I turn, and see a puppet peeping his head out of a secret opening of a door. Over here,” he says, and I find myself leaning in to listen to this furry, oval-faced creature in the shadows. He’ll help me, he says — that is if I can clear his name. See, another puppet has been murdered, and everyone right now is a suspect.

Campaign posters for puppet candidates for mayor inside Appleseed Avenue. “Election Day” is a tale of political espionage with puppet-on-puppet violence.

(Juliana Yamada / Los Angeles Times)

I am playing a gamed called “Election Day” at Appleseed Avenue, a relatively new escape room in a multi-story strip mall in Newhall. The puppet world is in the midst of a crisis, torn over whether humans should be allowed to wander the fictional street of Appleseed Avenue. My role is that of a detective, and throughout this game of fatal political espionage, I encounter multiple puppet characters — electricians, would-be-mayors, gangsters, dead puppets.

Drama ensues, and that’s where we humans come in, helping the puppets crack the case before we’re banned from their world once and for all. One needn’t be up on the state of puppet politics to participate — and don’t worry, the domestic affairs of Appleseed Avenue are relatively divorced from those of our own. Only a penchant for silly absurdity, and a stomach for puppet-on-puppet violence, is required.

While the look of the puppets may be inspired by, say, “Sesame Street,” with characters that are all big mouths and large eyes, the tone of “Election Day” leans a bit more adult. Recommended for ages 13 and older, “Election Day” will feature puppets in perilous conditions. And if you’re playing as a medical examiner, be prepared to get a glimpse at a mini puppet morgue.

Guests will play as detectives or medical examiners in Appleseed Avenue’s “Election Day.”

(Juliana Yamada / Los Angeles Times)

“Sometimes people do think, ‘Oh, this is for little kids.’ Not quite,” says Patrick Fye, who created the experience with Matt Tye. “We call it PG-13.”

“We wanted that dichotomy,” says Tye. “Really silly puppet-y characters in a gritty world.”

Fye and Tye are veterans of the local escape room scene — Fye the creator of Evil Genius Escape Rooms and Tye the developer of Arcane Escape Rooms. “Election Day,” however, while a timed experience, isn’t a pure escape room. Think of it more as a story that unfolds and needs solving. We’re not trapped. In fact, one puzzle actually utilizes the waiting room, as “Election Day” toys with the idea of traversing the human world and a puppet universe.

Patrick Fye and Matthew Tye, founders of Appleseed Avenue, along with their lookalike puppets.

(Juliana Yamada / Los Angeles Times)

Puppets weren’t necessarily the driving idea behind their joint venture in Appleseed Avenue. Creating a so-called escape room that was more narrative based was the objective. They wanted a room, for instance, where puzzles felt natural rather than forced. “Election Day” isn’t a space, say, with complex cipher codes to untangle. I was reminded of old-fashioned adventure video games, where one is prompted to look at objects, combine them or go on scavenger hunts, like the one prompted by the puppet I met in an alley.

Puppets were simply a means to an end.

“How can we make something that feels like you’re actually in the story and has more video game-y elements, as opposed to, ‘I’m in an Egyptian tomb. Here’s a padlock,’ ” says Fye. “We were trying to figure out how to mix the diegetics with the overall design. We stumbled on crimes and puppets because we thought it was fun and funny.”

One problem: Neither had created puppets or puppeteered before. Enter online classes, where Tye learned how to craft arm-rod puppets.

“We thought it was the coolest idea we had,” Tye says. When we both look at something and go, ‘We don’t know how to do all of this yet,’ we don’t let that stop us.”

Appleseed Avenue is home to an escape room featuring puppets. It doubles as the street name in which the game, “Election Day,” takes place.

(Juliana Yamada / Los Angeles Times)

“Election Day” does unfold like a live-in video game. At times, we’re interacting with a screen, as puppets will relay us messages and quests. Often, we’ll explore the space, as the two have created an elaborate set. Teams are split. Half work as detectives, and half as medical examiners. We can communicate via an inter-room conference system, or simply run back and forth.

But listening to everything the puppets say is paramount, as clues are often hidden in dialogue. Both say they have done too many escape rooms where the story felt too divorced from the actions they were being asked to complete.

“We even say at the beginning of the game, ‘The story really matters.’ You have to pay attention to it,” Fye says. “There’s a moment I’ll never forget. We were doing a Titanic room, and we were in the engine room shoveling coal. But isn’t the ship sinking? What is happening? A lot of times a story is just set dressing.”

The initial response to “Election Day” has been positive, so much so that the two are set to debut a second game in 2026, a sci-fi room titled “Shadow Puppet.” The latter will utilize the same Appleseed Avenue set, although additional spaces will be built out. They’re also looking at some more kid-friendly options. Planned for 2027 is a game titled “Puppet Town Day,” in which little ones will receive passports that prompt them to interact with the puppet characters.

Wanted posters for puppets. Many are a suspect in Appleseed Avenue’s “Election Day.”

(Juliana Yamada / Los Angeles Times)

For now, however, think of Appleseed Avenue as part of greater Los Angeles escape room trend. Whether it’s Hatch Escapes with its corporate time-jumping game “The Ladder” or Ministry of Peculiarities with its spooky haunted house, creators here are emphasizing story. Appleseed Avenue is no different, introducing us to a wacky cast of puppet characters.

It also achieves a rare feat: It makes murder feel ridiculous.

Says Tye: “When there’s a guy named Alby Dunfer who’s getting it from a blowdart from a hitman, it’s like, ‘OK, this is fun.’ ”

Any deviation from the beaten track comes with moments of uncertainty. Is this the right dirt track? Is our progress going to be thwarted at any moment by an impenetrable thicket, or worse still an implacable landowner who will force a ham-fisted reverse? As it turns out, we are only temporarily stalled by two male peacocks jousting in the middle of the lane in a kaleidoscopic blur of feathers and fury. We wait for them to retire to the grass verge and continue to bounce up the track until we see a sign for our cottage pointing to the left. This leads us deeper into a woodland of oak, ash, birch and Douglas fir, until we finally see a brick-and-stone house standing in a clearing set back from the trail.

From the outside, Van Cottage looks like a pioneer homestead, with a crooked stone chimney to one side and a metal-roofed veranda to the other. Around the corner there’s a wood-fired hot tub, and beyond the garden fence in a little forest glade is a small brick dunny. The house sits on a ridge, and the garden offers views over the carmine-coloured ploughed fields and billowy woodland of Herefordshire.

Rescued trekkers reach China’s Qudang township while 200 others still face treacherous Everest conditions awaiting help.

Rescuers have guided more than 350 people to safety after they were stranded by blizzard-like conditions on the Tibetan side of Mount Everest, Chinese state media reported on Sunday.

In total, more than 500 people were caught by surprise when unusually heavy snow and rainfall lashed them on the way in the Tingri region of Tibet, one of the main routes to ascend the world’s tallest mountain.

Those rescued on Sunday were taken to the small township of Qudang, on the Tibetan side of the peak, CCTV reported.

Some 200 trekkers who remained stranded in treacherous conditions as of Sunday were due to arrive in Qudang in stages under the guidance and assistance of rescuers organised by the local government, CCTV reported.

The CCTV report did not indicate whether local guides and support staff accompanying the trekking parties had been accounted for. It was also unclear if trekkers near the north face of Everest, also in Tibet, had been affected or not.

Heavy snowfall in the valley, which lies at an elevation averaging 4,200 metres (13,800 feet), began on Friday evening and persisted throughout Saturday.

Ticket sales and entry to the entire Everest Scenic Area were suspended from late Saturday, according to notices on the official WeChat accounts of the local Tingri County Tourism Company.

“It was so wet and cold in the mountains, and hypothermia was a real risk,” said Chen Geshuang, who was part of an 18-strong trekking team that made it to Qudang.

“The weather this year is not normal. The guide said he had never encountered such weather in October. And it happened all too suddenly,” Chen told the Reuters news agency.

In neighbouring Nepal, Sherpa communities have been adapting to increasingly unpredictable conditions as climate change contributes to more frequent and dramatic climate shifts in the Himalayas, posing risks to climbers and the Sherpa communities who work there.

In a situation update shared on Sunday, Nepal’s Tourism Board said that search and rescue operations were ongoing after the weather “improved significantly” across Nepal, with “clear skies in Kathmandu and many other parts of Nepal”.

The update came after heavy rains triggered landslides and flash floods across Nepal, killing at least 47 people since Friday.

Thirty-five people died in separate landslides in the eastern Ilam district bordering India. Nine people were reported missing after being swept away by floodwaters, and three others were killed in lightning strikes elsewhere in the country.

The floods and landslides in the mountainous regions come as South Asian countries continue to battle ongoing floods, including in Pakistan, where some four million people have been affected.

The Post Office Money report highlights how Hoi An isn’t just a cheap place to visit, but that it’s getting cheaper. Across a basket of ten holiday items visitors are likely to buy, Hoi An was the cheapest of the long-haul destinations looked at, and 10% cheaper than it was in 2023

A 15th century city with rows of colourful houses has been named as the best value destination for winter-sun breaks.

Hoi An in Vietnam returns to the number one spot it last held in 2023 in the Post Office Money rankings of the best long haul destinations, ideal for jetting away from our miserable shores to in the long, wintery days ahead.

The town is an exceptionally well-preserved example of a South-East Asian trading port dating from the 15th to the 19th century. The unique heritage site show influences from Vietnam and further afield, coming together to produce a unique public space.

In the evenings the lights from the yellow painted buildings and orange sun reflect off the water in a captivating way. Thanks to an Unesco decree, more than 800 buildings have been preserved, meaning the village looks much like it did several centuries ago.

“My favorite way to explore any new city is by walking and seeing what hidden treasures I can find. Because cars and motorbikes aren’t allowed to drive in the Ancient Town for the majority of the day, the area is prime for exploring on foot,” suggests blogger Travel Lush.

“Wandering aimlessly around the Ancient Town is easily one of the best things to do in Hoi An. And sure, it is very touristy, but I always love marveling at the old buildings, snapping photos of the postcard-perfect alleyways, sampling street snacks and popping into all of the little shops – you honestly never know what gems you’ll stumble upon in Hoi An’s historic center. The people-watching is pretty great too!

“Getting the chance to take in Hoi An’s magical scenery from a bicycle is one of my all-time favorite Hoi An activities. Cycling is big in Hoi An and most hotels here offer complimentary bicycles. It’s an incredible way to check out all of the city’s beautiful temples, emerald rice paddies and everyday street scenes.”

The Post Office Money report highlights how Hoi An isn’t just a cheap place to visit, but that it’s getting cheaper. Across a basket of ten holiday items visitors are likely to buy, Hoi An was the cheapest of the long-haul destinations looked at, and 10% cheaper than it was in 2023.

Visitors can bag a bottle of lager for £1.23 and a cup of coffee for slightly less.

Another big draw of the destination is how pleasant its weather is. Throughout the year the Vietnamese city enjoys temperature of around 29C on most days. However, it does have a long rainy season, from November through to January, so it may be wise to visit before, during the autumn, or from February.

While it may be cheap once you’re there, getting to Vietnam will cost you. Right now Skyscanner is listing return flights from the UK for £780.

There are plenty of other revelations in the Post Office Money report, which saw places in India and the Far East dominate the value top ten, taking seven of its places.

Last year’s leader Cape Town, in South Africa, is still a good bet for value in second place. Bali, Indonesia is in third. A three-course meal with wine costs just £35.48, the cheapest in the survey.

Mombasa, Kenya moved up to fourth place, beating Tokyo, which got more expensive. Penang, Malaysia and Phuket, Thailand are now in the top 10 after prices falls there. Lower prices in Colombo, Sri Lanka too saw it jump ahead of Delhi, India in our tables

Travel operator First Choice has named ‘shoulder season’ travel one of their top cheat codes for budget-conscious travellers. These are the best destinations to visit in September and October.

Summer may be over, but this might be the best time of the year to plan your next holiday. The start of ‘shoulder season’ means off-peak pricing for accommodation and flights, making it a great time to explore a new destination.

According to the travel operator, First Choice, you could save up to £240 per booking in September compared to August. While September is still a popular month for late-summer trips, many UK travellers don’t realise the holiday potential of October.

First Choice says October and the beginning of November are ideal for a city break, and they’ve shared some of the best – often overlooked – destinations to find some sun.

What are the shoulder seasons?

Shoulder seasons are the off-peak periods between busy travel seasons like summer and Christmas. Travel in months like September and October can often be slower, as destinations cool down but don’t yet offer the festive fun that Brits are eagerly awaiting. Spring is also a shoulder season, particularly the months of March or April.

What are the best destinations for shoulder-season travel?

If you’re keen for sun close to home, the Mediterranean is your best bet. Specifically, Turkey, Cyprus, Spain and Greece in Europe. The Canary Islands, Morocco or Tunisia in North Africa are also strong options.

If you’re willing to travel a bit further, Dubai is another great option. Additionally, summer hotspots like Seville, Rome and Marrakech present a different side for travellers to discover in the autumn months.

Turkey in September is a top destination for shoulder season holidays, as temperatures hang around 30C. Travellers can enjoy the beachy atmosphere of Antalya and Dalaman with fewer crowds and cheaper prices.

First Choice, says Tenerife is also “a classic all year round” pick. Temperatures cool down to the mid-20s in September, which is still conducive to beach days and hiking trips to Mount Teide. The often crowded summer destination will be significantly quieter during autumn, especially in popular areas like Playa de las Americas and Costa Adeje.

With temperatures of 28C in September – cooling to around 24C in October – don’t discount Majorca in the fall. Palma is packed with impressive features like the Moorish Palace and Arab baths that can be explored and appreciated year-round.

Finally, in Cyprus summer rolls into September, making it a great shoulder season destination. Travellers will have their pick of pristine beaches and can enjoy the island’s historic landmarks without the pushy crowds.

While most European holiday destinations are winding down in October there’s one island in the Mediterranean where the resorts are still lively and the weather stays warm

If the thought of chilly autumn mornings, rain and wind fill you with pure dread, you may be looking to book a break in October for a final taste of warming late summer sun.

Many resorts start to shut up shop at this time of year and wind down their tourist attractions as visitor numbers decline, the nights draw in and the temperatures start to drop.

However, there’s one island in the Mediterranean where the main destinations remain very much open with plenty to offer holiday makers who aren’t quite ready to accept summer is over or who want to treat the kids to a half term trip to help ease those back to school blues.

The third largest island in the Med, Cyprus, is located in sparkling azure waters southeast of Greece and south of Turkey. Less than a five hour flight from the UK, it is one of the warmest places in this part of the European Union thanks to its subtropical climate and the summer generally lasts eight months from April through to November.

Temperatures during October can reach 28C or higher on occasion and even in the cooler four months, it’s possible to enjoy 20C. Coastal areas in December enjoy as many hours of sunshine as London does in May on average so sun seekers are certainly well catered for.

The main resorts make the most of their balmy climes and welcome holidaymakers late into the season. On the East Coast restaurants and kids’ clubs in Paphos and Limassol are still running and lively.

The beaches in Protaras and Ayia Napa are heaving in high summer but by this time of year are much calmer so great for families to make the most of with the sea temperature averaging around 24C.

Those with younger children or elderly travellers may prefer the sandy, serene beach of Fig Tree Bay in Protaras where it’s possible to explore the beautiful turquoise waters with a spot of snorkeling or on a boat trip. Limassol offers a long stretch of gorgeous coastline with some Blue Flag beaches and a stunning marina.

For those wanting something more energetic than making sandcastles and dozing in the sun, the island has plenty of water and amusement parks.

The always buzzing Ayia Napa is home to a number, with the Greek mythology-themed WaterWorld being the most famous, while the naturally landscaped Aphrodite Waterpark is situated in Paphos.

It’s here that fans of ancient history can also visit the Tombs of the Kings. The UNESCO World Heritage Site offers visitors a glimpse into the mysterious burial practices in underground tombs dating back to the 4th century. Larnaca, the oldest city in Cyprus also has a wealth of historical sites, museums, churches and cathedrals.

Traditional Cypriot cuisine is influenced by Greece and the Middle East. Meze is very popular, with a selection of small dishes such as dips, grilled meats, seafood and cheese, particularly halloumi, which is the national cheese.

Souvlaki (charcoal skewered meat) and Stifado – a hearty stew as well makaronia tou fournou, which is a baked pasta dish, is also very popular and tasty. There are plenty of options for the fussier palate or younger visitors, with restaurants offering British inspired menus.

Recent visitors to Cyprus have shared their experiences on Tripadvisor, with one advising on the weather during autumn. “We have been four times to Paphos in October,” they wrote.

“The temperature in mid October in the early afternoon has been around 28 degrees with beautiful blue skies. We have been able to eat outside in the early evening and used a pashmina later.

“Could still swim in the pool but it was a bit chilly. The sea, however, was fine to swim in.” Another added: “We’re always there mid-October and it’s lovely – still short sleeves in the evenings.”

Images of this enchanting destination have overtaken TikTok feeds all summer, but winter is the best time to visit this Slovenian city – home to some of the bluest waters on the continent

Just because summer has come to a close, doesn’t mean you should turn a cold shoulder to your favourite holiday hotspots. Some places double as a sunny escape and a winter wonderland, and a new list is highlighting a destination that is the best of both.

The car rental experts at SIXT have revealed the most stunning winter sun destinations across Europe. At the top of the list is Lake Bled, Slovenia, home to one of the continent’s bluest bodies of water.

SIXT analysed the bluest bodies of water in Europe to note the most picturesque winter destinations for Brits to visit during the shoulder season and cold months. The group colour-picked high-resolution photographs of 100 of the most beautiful bodies of water across Europe before settling on Lake Bled as one of the top spots.

According to SIXT, Lake Bled is the highest ranking city break destination and third bluest in Europe. It also has a stunning mountainous landscape that makes it an even more surreal travel experience.

Although a hotspot for tourists in the summer, this city break is also a hidden gem for those seeking a snowy few days away this winter. Not only does the blue water create an impressive backdrop, but Bled is the site of many fun winter activities.

Skating on the lake is not recommended, however there are plenty of indoor and outdoor rinks for travellers to enjoy in addition to skiing, snowboarding and sledging on nearby slopes like Straža Hill. Straža also happens to be considered the most beautiful viewpoint in the area that offers incredible vantages of the city of Bled, the lake, and surrounding mountains.

Just a few years ago, Slovenia was a relatively under the radar holiday destination, but 2023 and 2024 saw record-breaking growth. In the UK alone, searches for ‘flights to Ljubljana’ surged exponentially.

From December onward, a snowy backdrop sets in, creating a magical setting without the peak-season crowds, perfect for romantic getaways. It’s this combination of natural beauty, blue water and winter activities that makes Lake Bled Europe’s ultimate cold-weather city break this year.

Full list of the bluest waters in Europe

1. Bay of Kotor, Montenegro
2. The Blue Grotto, Malta
3. Lake Bled, Slovenia
4. Derwentwater, England
5. River Rhine, Germany
6. Bay of Biscay, Spain
7. Bay of Vigo, Spain
8. Kielder Water, England
9. Calanques de Cassis, France
10. Galway Bay, Ireland

Chris Robshaw’s wife Camilla Kerslake has made a drastic move to head off speculation about Strictly Come Dancing’s infamous curse just days before he takes to the dancefloor

Strictly Come Dancing is set to return this weekend, and former England rugby captain Chris Robshaw will be among the new celebrity contestants.

However, while he prepares to take to the dancefloor, his wife Camilla Kerslake has reportedly already taken steps to make sure the infamous and dreaded ‘Strictly curse’ doesn’t enter their marriage.

Camilla, 37, who tied the knot with Chris, 39, in 2018, is said to be keen to shut down speculation before it starts and has even invited his professional partner over for dinner.

“Camilla is a woman’s woman. She knows it’s inevitable that women will be compared and pitted against each other, but she won’t stand for that. She’s always been very vocal about women supporting each other and has already invited Chris’ partner over for dinner.

“She wants to build a friendship outside of the show in a bid to stop any gossiping around the curse,” a source revealed.

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According to insiders, Chris’ dance partner has been receptive to Camilla’s efforts, with both women finding common ground and planning to spend time together before the series begins.

“Chris thinks they’ll hit it off as mates,” the source added, “and he’s joked to friends that he’ll end up being the third wheel,” they told The Sun.

The ‘Strictly curse’ has become a well-worn talking point since the show first began in 2004, with several celebrity contestants leaving long-term partners for their professional dancers.

Notable cases of the dreaded curse include Countdown star Rachel Riley splitting from her husband before marrying professional dancer Pasha Kovalev in 2019.

Stacey Dooley also left her partner Sam Tucknott and later had a child with professional dancer Kevin Clifton. Elsewhere, comedian Seann Walsh was brutally dumped after being caught kissing his professional dance partner, Katya Jones.

Camilla is determined not to let history repeat itself in their household as friends say she wants to ensure there is unity between her and Chris’ dance partner rather than any sense of rivalry.

Away from the dancefloor, Chris and Camilla have also been dealing with a personal and terrifying challenge. Earlier this year it was revealed that the couple had been targeted by a stalker.

Addressing the situation at the time, Camilla said: “Chris and I are so grateful to the press for handling a very difficult situation with such sensitivity. It’s meant we can focus on keeping our little family safe.

“We’ve truly been overwhelmed by the kindness shown. From here, we’re choosing to move forward. This won’t define us and instead, we’ll be focusing on our family and the exciting journey ahead with Strictly.”

Chris joins a cast that includes former Love Island star Dani Dyer, TV personality Vicky Pattison, and YouTube sensation George Clarke.

The series will officially launch this weekend with the pairing-up episode, before the celebrities and their professional dancers kick off the live competition.

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Winning tip: ebike tour of Sardinia’s west coast

We explored Sardinia’s wild west coast by ebike with Bosa Bike Experience, who had us whizzing up into vertiginous mountain villages with views of the sparkling azure sea, then back down in time for mirto spritz at a sunset bar right on the seafront. Then back into Bosa’s maze of colourful cobbled streets for delicious Sardinian specialities like seafood fregola, smoked ricotta and wine from local vines grown on volcanic soil. The nearby beaches were perfect – some family-friendly, others wild and deserted.
Emma

A spectacular Italian hotel beneath Sorrento’s cliffs

One of my favourite autumn escapes is the Hotel Admiral (doubles from about £140 B&B) snuggled into the cliff face of Sorrento. I would spend my mornings here dozing on warm black sand and swimming in the sea, pleasantly warm after having had summer to heat up. At about two o’clock, the sun retreats behind the cliffs, leaving afternoons for wandering a network of shady passages and rickety stairways that lead to charming restaurants and shops. Come evening, lambent orange lamplight cloaks the village in sleepy romance while wine taverns murmur Italian music. And, ever-present across the bay is looming, magnificent Vesuvius.
Catrina Conway

Cycling in the golden light of Tuscany

Lucca is a perfect late summer escape, bathed in golden Tuscan light and alive with cultural charm. Its tree-lined Renaissance walls invite leisurely bike rides, while the car-free old town offers tranquil strolls through winding alleys and piazzas. In September, the city glows during the Luminara di Santa Croce, a candlelit procession that transforms Lucca into a living artwork. Markets brim with seasonal produce, and nearby vineyards begin their harvest. Whether you’re savouring buccellato in a shaded cafe or climbing Torre Guinigi for rooftop views to the Apennines, Lucca blends serenity, history and sensory delight. It’s ideal for those seeking warmth without the crowds.
Catherine Taylor

The party boats have left Formentera – but not the sunshine

Ibiza’s quieter sister, Formentera, is bliss once the August party boats depart. By early September the heat has mellowed, but the sea still feels like silk. Hire a bike at La Savina, pedal along pine-scented lanes to the dazzling sands of Platja de ses Illetes, then linger over sunset paella at a chiringuito (beach bar) as flamingos swoop across the nearby salt flats. With most day-trippers gone, even the island’s lone lighthouse at La Mola feels yours alone, and off-season ferry deals from Ibiza make this pocket-sized paradise surprisingly gentle on the wallet.
Azeem

A French B&B that has the Lot

For a gentle late-summer escape, head to Le Relais du Chien Bleu (doubles from €80 a night), a hidden B&B on the Lot-Aveyron border. Set in a 19th-century townhouse, it serves superb vegan dishes (yes, in France!) made from local market produce. Stroll down to the Lot River, nibble figs straight from the trees, and wander the medieval streets of Capdenac-Le-Haut, while the nearby railway town of Capdenac adds historic charm. With fewer crowds and warm, attentive hosts, this is the perfect spot to savour the relaxed rhythms of rural southern France as summer eases into autumn.
Liam

Ancient island trails scented with thyme, Greece

For a blissful late-season escape, head to the Cyclades island of Sifnos a few hours on a ferry from Piraeus, Athens’ main port. The summer crowds have faded, but the sun still warms the quiet beaches and whitewashed villages. Enjoy fresh seafood at harbour tavernas, hike ancient trails scented with wild thyme, and join locals at gentle evening festivals. With lower prices and a slower pace, Sifnos reveals its authentic charm – perfect for unwinding before autumn truly arrives.
Sandra

Wander Roman ruins in Portugal’s Alentejo

The Alentejo basks in golden light well into late September and October. The region stretches from cork oak forests to wild Atlantic beaches, with daytime temperatures still hovering above 20C. In the whitewashed town of Évora, Roman ruins and quiet plazas invite slow wandering. Farther west, the coastline near Vila Nova de Milfontes offers warm surf and near-empty sands. Alentejo is languid and sun-drenched, a secret escape where summer lingers and time seems to pause.
Matthew Healy

Take the Tarragona train in Spain

Tarragona is really easy to reach by Eurostar, TGV, then local train from Barcelona. Self-catering accommodation in the old city centre is within apartment buildings that may well incorporate the ancient city walls or the foundations of the Roman circus and mean you can experience living like a local with narrow communal staircases and markets on your doorstep. Outdoor tables at restaurants are delightful well into autumn and the waves at the beach are still warm. Entrance to the amphitheatre is only €5 (beat that Rome!) where you can see surviving painted wall plaster.
Amy

Agritourism amid Ottoman splendour in Albania

The Unesco-listed town of Berat, nicknamed the “town of a thousand windows”, not only offers amazing places to see such as castles, Ottoman-era houses, museums and so on, but also it’s a perfect place for agritourism. If you want to experience harvesting fruits such as grapes and figs (Alpeta is one of the many vineyards and farms offering agritourism), then September is an ideal time to visit.
Gentian Agalliu

Stay on a rewilded nature reserve, south-west France

The sleepy woods of south-west France are wonderful for a late summer break. Stay near Limoges at Le Moulin de Pensol (gîtes from €60 a night), run as a nature reserve with plenty of rewilded land. Mushrooms take over from butterflies as the main September attraction, with the advantage that they stay still for photos. I walked miles along golden, leaf-lined trails in the Périgord-Limousin natural regional park. The annual chestnut festival at Dournazac completed the autumn package.
Rachel

I was so tired of being hot, and my patience for city life was wearing thin. I needed to find a place with a cool breeze and without the groan of my wall air conditioner and without honking, sirens or tailpipes that sound like unhinged bumblebees.

After an hour’s drive, I pulled into the Islip Saddle trailhead parking lot, and I was alone with birdsong and a chilly breeze. I had arrived!

A view of the Antelope Valley from the segment of the Pacific Crest Trail from Islip Saddle to Little Jimmy Trail Camp.

(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)

But as I faffed around preparing my hiking bag, a roaring construction truck pulled into the parking lot, blessing me with the smell of diesel. And then another. And then a road-paving machine that looked so advanced and alien, I wondered whether it could pave the moon.

Did these Caltrans workers miss the memo that this was a place of peace and solitude? How could they do this to me?

A bit huffy, I crossed Angeles Crest Highway and started the 2.1-mile trail — which is part of both the Pacific Crest Trail and the Silver Moccasin Trail — from Islip Saddle to Little Jimmy Trail Camp. I’d chosen this hike because it includes a north-facing slope, which means it gets less direct sunlight, and it starts at about 6,600 feet, climbing to 7,500 feet at the campground, which also helps ensure a cooler temperature.

Thick bunches of rabbitbrush grow along the trail from Islip Saddle to Little Jimmy Trail Camp.

(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)

Ambling up and through native plants, though, I kept grumbling to myself about the noise, clearly unable to appreciate the first views of the surrounding mountains.

And then I asked myself: “What in the world are you doing here?” I started laughing. Was I really going to let perfection be the enemy of the good? Had the heat cooked my brain?

Soon, I was pausing to appreciate the yellow rabbitbrush covering both sides of the trail. I spotted a molting lizard, looking haggard, and hoped I could make a similar transformation of my mood.

As chipmunks darted across the path, though, I was brought down, again, by the seemingly endless number of burned trees killed by the 2020 Bobcat fire. Would they ever grow back? Were they dead now?

Then I realized I was literally missing the forest for the trees. Yes, there were so many burned, and presumably dead, pine trees. But the forest floor was alive! The ground was covered in manzanita, Grinnell’s beardtongue and purple-pink Parish’s wild buckwheat.

A chipmunk darts around the detritus near Islip Saddle in Angeles National Forest.

(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)

I heard the tap, tap, tap of a nearby woodpecker, perhaps in search of its next meal. Curious little mountain chickadees flitted past. And the chipmunks, as always, made me laugh as they hopped from rock to rock, unsure of whether they wanted to eat a snack or hide.

A molting lizard scurries across a rock pile near the trail to Little Jimmy Trail Camp.

(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)

All I could initially see was what we’d lost to the fire, and I was missing what had returned. Amid the blackened trunks, pine saplings dotted the forest floor.

About 1.4 miles in, I spotted living, breathing green trees, the survivors. I kept trudging along, feeling a newfound sense of awe at nature’s resilience.

Soon, I reached Little Jimmy, a 16-site backcountry trail camp. There were no campers, just me and the hulking pine trees. Sweaty, I felt a little cold as the wind blew past me. I had arrived.

I hope regardless of which of these three hikes you take, nature helps you free yourself from what’s weighing you down.

The view from Little Jimmy Trail Camp if one chooses to lie down and meditate on a picnic table.

(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)

1. Islip Saddle to Little Jimmy Trail Camp
Distance: 4.2 miles (with an option to extend to Mt. Islip)
Elevation gained: About 850 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Dogs allowed? Yes
Accessible alternative: Paved paths through Buckhorn Campground

A stingray swims in the Colorado Lagoon, which was once part of a wetlands ecosystem that encompassed most of east Long Beach. The lagoon is now part of a 29-acre park in Long Beach.

(Jaclyn Cosgrove / Los Angeles Times)

2. Colorado Lagoon path
Distance: 1.4 miles
Elevation gained: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy
Dogs allowed: Yes
Accessible alternative: This is an accessible hike!

This 1.4-mile accessible urban hike through a 29-acre marine wetland in Long Beach includes walking along the sidewalk, crossing over the lagoon’s causeway and taking a wide dirt path shaded by native plants and trees. And as a bonus, when you’re finished, you can go swimming at the lagoon’s sandy beach.

As I traversed the path, I paused on the bridge to look around the lagoon. I saw motion in the water and realized I’d spotted a sting ray! I watched the sand ray swim along for a bit, amazed at my luck. That said, if you do choose to go swimming in the lagoon, make sure to practice the sting ray shuffle.

Because of a large construction project, you cannot complete the full loop around the lagoon. You can either start at the eastern corner of the beach on the paved path and take the path in a northwesterly direction or start near Monrovia Avenue and East 6th Street, and take the sidewalk toward the lagoon.

Also, if you visit this weekend, look for the Friends of the Colorado Lagoon, who will host an educational talk from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday where visitors will learn about the lagoon’s history and ecology and then participate in a hands-on activity helping clean up the lagoon. Learn more at the group’s website.

Upper portions of the Rising Sun Trail afford elevated ocean views from Solstice Canyon in Malibu.

(Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)

3. Solstice Canyon Trail
Distance: 3 miles
Elevation gained: About 400 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Dogs allowed: Yes
Accessible alternative: Legacy Park loop

Even when its seasonal waterfall is dry, Solstice Canyon is a lush landscape of coastal sage scrub (with the occasional black-hooded parakeet). This moderate hike takes you through the canyon, along its creek where black walnut and oak trees offer shade as lizards dash across the path. You can either take this more moderate route 1.5 miles in and turn around. Or if you’re thirsty for ocean views, make a loop by taking the Rising Sun Trail, a 1.4-mile more challenging route.

Regardless of where you go, please make sure to check the weather beforehand and go early in the day to avoid the hottest parts of the day. Thankfully, autumn is coming!

3 things to do

Churchgoers pass out water to cyclists at a previous CicLAvia event.

(CicLAvia Los Angeles)

1. Bike through Historic South–Central and Watts
Nonprofit CicLAvia will host a free open streets festival from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday where participants can traverse a 6.25-mile route through Historic South-Central and Watts. Visitors can walk and bike the route or choose any other people-powered means of transport. The route will include music, local food vendors and more. Learn more at ciclavia.org.

2. Bare it all on bikes in L.A.
L.A.’s World Naked Bike Ride will start at 10 a.m. Saturday downtown. Riders can choose from a more challenging ride at 10 a.m. or an easier 9-mile ride at 2 p.m. Participants can skate, scoot, jog or bike in their birthday suits along the ride. Body paint optional! Learn more at the group’s Instagram page.

3. Star gaze in Malibu
The Malibu Creek State Park docents will host a night of stargazing and astronomy from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Saturday at the park’s amphitheater. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets and their curiosity. Learn more at the park’s Instagram page.

The must-read

(Photo illustration by Avery Fox / Los Angeles Times; photos by Tiana Molony)

Whenever you visit Santa Barbara, a two-hour jaunt northwest of L.A., your trip most likely includes a visit to one of the city’s gorgeous beaches. But as Times contributor Tiana Molony points out, “Santa Barbara is a place of dual delights.” Molony outlines the best places to hike in the region, where you’ll have views of both the Pacific Ocean and the mountains. Saddle Rock Trail, for instance, offers a sweeping panoramic view. Or if you want to take a dip in freshwater, check out Rattlesnake Canyon. Any of the eight hikes she writes about sound like a worthy side quest on a trip along the Santa Barbara coast.

Happy adventuring,

P.S.

Dear Wilders, we have an important task at hand this fall. The California State Parks Foundation is asking nature lovers to report sightings of western monarch butterflies as they overwinter along the Pacific coast from October through March(ish). You can do so by downloading iNaturalist, a free community science app, and register for an account. You will use the app to upload photographs of monarchs you spot, noting the location where you saw them. I spotted a monarch last week near my apartment complex’s dumpster and immediately uploaded the blurry but helpful image. For those with extra time, you can register to volunteer to help count monarchs in overwintering sites near you. Let’s help document these important pollinators and do our part to ensure their survival.

For more insider tips on Southern California’s beaches, trails and parks, check out past editions of The Wild. And to view this newsletter in your browser, click here.

This year, fewer than 40 per cent of Spanish travellers went on holiday in August, which is the traditional month off, as it is in France. This marks a significant change in travel habits

Holidaymakers heading to Spain during the autumn may find themselves overwhelmed by crowds of fellow tourists.

It used to be that heading to Britain’s favourite holiday destination in April, May, and September was a great way to bag a decently priced warm-weather stay while also dodging the throngs that descend on Spain during the high summer.

Newly published data suggests that this may no longer be the case. EuroNews reports that about one in six Spanish travellers will go on holiday this September as off-peak trips surge.

A major driver in this change is the travel habits of locals, which have shifted dramatically in recent years. Fewer than 40 per cent of Spanish travellers went on holiday in August, which is the traditional month off, as it is in France.

READ MORE: Ryanair cancels flights to 3 Spanish airports in blow to Irish holidaymakersREAD MORE: Sundrenched EU island that’s 28C in September and desperate for more tourists

Now, around one in six Spaniards say they will go on holiday in September this year, according to Spain’s National Observatory of Outbound Tourism (ObservaTUR). Last year, Spain welcomed in 9.6 million international tourists in September, marking a 9.1% increase compared to the same month the year before, FTN reported.

A consequence of growing interest in September holidays is rising prices. Across Spain, a night’s stay averaged €132 (£114) last September, a 21 percent jump from 2023.

One of the major factors in the shift from July and August to September is the weather. Global heating has rendered many parts of Spain uncomfortably, even dangerously hot in the high summer. Last year I spoke with a Brit in Seville who told of the roastingly hot temperatures there and how unpleasant it had become as a holiday destination.

This summer, large parts of Spain have been hit by wildfires due to a long stretch of hot weather and a lack of rain. In August, Extremadura in the west of the country was scorched by what one official called a ‘mega fire’.

Another factor is the rise in interest in Spain generally as a holiday destination. According to Spain’s National Institute of Statistics, the country welcomed 11 million international visitors in July – the highest monthly total in its history. That comes after the country recorded 55.5 million arrivals in the first seven months of 2025. Tourist spending has so far risen 7.2% year-on-year, to €76 billion (£66 billion) so far this year, a 7.2 per cent rise compared with 2024.

Booked-up hotels and a lack of space on flights mean holidaymakers keen to visit their favourite Costa or beach are choosing dates further from the typical tourism season peak.

A third key factor may be the overtourism movement, which has been working hard to highlight issues related to tourism, such as rising house prices, overcrowding, overburdened public facilities, and much else.

In issuing warnings about the overwhelmed nature of some Spanish holiday hotspots, they may have convinced tourists to aim for the quieter months instead.

American Jessica Pegula says completing an escape room with friends helped her rediscover her form and embark on a run to the US Open quarter-finals.

Fourth seed Pegula needed just 54 minutes to beat a nervous Ann Li 6-1 6-2 on Sunday and keep alive her hopes of winning a career-first Grand Slam.

In the last eight she will face 2024 Wimbledon champion Barbora Krejcikova, who saved eight match points on her way to beating home hopeful Taylor Townsend 1-6 7-6 (15-13) 6-3 in a thrilling match.

Pegula, 31, has endured a difficult summer, with a humbling first-round exit at Wimbledon followed by early round exits at WTA events in Washington, Montreal and Cincinnati.

“I felt terrible coming into this tournament, honestly,” Pegula said after beating compatriot Li.

After quitting midway through a practice session with world number one Aryna Sabalenka days before the US Open, Pegula’s mood improved after a night out with friends.

“[We] went and did an escape room with my friends and had, like, two drinks and [realised] I need to just chill and stop getting so frustrated and overthinking all these practices,” she said.

Pegula – who enjoyed a superb run to the final at Flushing Meadows 12 months ago – looked much closer to her best on Sunday as she broke Li six times on her way to victory.

“I know when she’s serving well and has confidence she’s really dangerous,” Pegula said of Li, who she beat in a much tighter match at the French Open back in May.

“I felt like she came out a little slow and nervous and I wanted to jump on that and not let her feel comfortable for a second, that was my motivation all match.”

I wake to the peal of church bells as sunlight streams into my room and go out on to the balcony to look up at Mount Storžič. My base, Senkova Domačija, an organic family-run farm just outside the village of Jezersko, is so picturesque it looks like an AI hallucination: an ancient farmhouse with beautiful wooden outbuildings, cows grazing in small green fields, organic vegetables growing neatly in rows, and a backdrop of some seriously dramatic mountains. The Slovenian capital Ljubljana may be less than an hour away, but here in the Jezersko valley, just 3 miles from the Austrian border, it feels like another world.

Bordered on the east by the Kamnik-Savinja Alps, and on the west by the peaks of the Karavanke mountain range, and with a tranquil green lake at the bottom of the valley, there’s a tangible sense of apartness – an idyllic escape from the world.

You will be able to enjoy sunny weather by heading to one pretty European island in the autumn.

For those looking to escape the weather when we move towards autumn, there’s no need to venture too far.

Just off Africa’s north coast, Madeira offers a warm retreat for holidaymakers seeking the last of Europe’s balmy weather this year.

With a warm climate year-round, the temperature averages around 23C in October, with November temperatures often reaching a comfortable 22C.

Being less than four hours away by plane, the islands of the Madeira archipelago are a favourite destination for Brits throughout the year, and equally adored by Portuguese and German tourists.

Travel giant TUI suggests staying in the capital, Funchal, where you can enjoy a blend of colonial buildings, churches, and relaxed squares, reports the Express.

The old town’s narrow streets are brimming with wine bars and family-owned eateries, while the marina boasts cafes and top-notch seafood spots.

Funchal’s cable car whisks tourists up to the leafy suburb of Monte, home to stunning botanical gardens.

For a taste of Madeira’s heritage, don’t miss a ride on the wicker sledges from Monte back down to Livramento.

Designated workers physically push visitors down the hill, an exhilarating experience that many say is a must-do during any visit.

East of Funchal, you’ll find Canico De Baixo. This place is a blend of old and new, with an 18th-century church and town square at its heart, surrounded by modern boutique hotels and clifftop villas.

While soaking up the stunning views on this island, known as both the Floating Garden and Hawaii of the Atlantic, it’s essential to sample the world-renowned Madeira wine.

Madeira wine comes in four main styles, each offering a different level of sweetness. The sweetest of them all is Malvasia, followed by Bual, then Verdelho. The driest is Sercial.

There’s also a resurgence of Madeira made from a grape called Terrantez, which was nearly wiped out on the island. It’s said to have a sweetness level similar to Bual and Verdelho.

Bruntsfield Links

To the south of popular parkland the Meadows, Bruntsfield Links offers a quieter, calmer stretch of green, free of Big Top entertainment. Book a table at cute wine bar and cafe Margot for brunch and order french toast with ginger-poached pears and bay-leaf custard, or hot smoked trout with leek fritters. Later in the day stop by for oysters, small plates and natural wine by the glass. Bag a window-seat or a table outside to enjoy views of Arthur’s Seat, which at sunset seems to glow pink and gold. Sister restaurant LeftField on the same corner is gorgeous for an elegant dinner with the same incredible views.

Portobello beach

This is Edinburgh’s seaside so hardly a secret, and on hot days it does get busy. However, compared with beaches on the south coast, it might as well be the Hebrides. Only the middle few sections nearest the cafes get truly crowded and it’s such a long stretch that there’s plenty of space to find your own little sandy idyll. Head to Shrimp Wreck for a fishfinger sarnie, or pick up a slice of Civerino’s pizza and a local Bellfield beer. Unsurprisingly there’s excellent ice-cream to be found; try a scoop at Oscar’s Gelato.
Lothian Buses 19 or 26 from Princes Street.

Hidden closes on the Royal Mile

Edinburgh’s Royal Mile is the centre of the festival action, but even here there are quiet escapes, usually into a close, the narrow alleyways that make Edinburgh’s Old Town so unique. Dunbar’s Close is a favourite, off Canongate towards the bottom of the Royal Mile. It’s a 17th-century-styled formal garden with benches and one of the city’s most tranquil hideaways. Pick up a delicious direct-trade Brazilian coffee and pastel de nata from Santu Coffee and enjoy the peace, just steps from the party. Similarly, Lady Stair’s Close, home to the free Writers’ Museum, is ideal for a quick breather. You’ll find it just off the Lawnmarket towards the top of the Royal Mile.

The Shore, Leith

Often compared to Copenhagen, this is Edinburgh’s waterfront eating and drinking destination. Do what the locals do and sit by the river with a cold pint of local beer from Malt and Hops, or discover the tap room at Moonwake Beer Co. Try a huge takeaway sandwich from Domenico’s for lunch – pre-order for speed. Or for indoor dining, new seafood restaurant Barry Fish is the hottest reservation this summer.
Edinburgh Trams to the Shore.

The Royal Botanic Garden and Canonmills

A true jewel in Edinburgh’s crown, the lush Royal Botanic Garden spans 72 acres with a collection dating back to the 17th century. Catch your breath among the trees, and don’t miss the panoramic views of the Edinburgh skyline from the lawns of Inverleith House. Nearby, I rate Singapore Coffee House for kaya toast and slow-cooked eggs, or roti canai with pickled vegetables. Traditional cafe Betty and George is a cosy spot for tea and cake or a bowl of soup. For a more formal meal, The Tollhouse has a great set lunch and overlooks the river.
Lothian Buses 9, 23 or 27 from The Mound.

Stockbridge

This bustling neighbourhood is a home to many of the city’s best restaurants, yet escapes much of the festival madness. For a top-tier picnic head to Herbie of Edinburgh for deli treats, or Mootz General Store for freshly baked schiacciata sandwiches – the classic is mortadella, stracciatella soft cheese[added soft cheese because it confusingly is also soup and gelato] and pistachio pesto. If you can bear the queue, add perfect patisserie from cult bakery Lannan. Enjoy your wares in Inverleith Park, there’s a big pond with swans and ducks, mature trees, and if you’re travelling with children, a good playpark. You can also walk from Stockbridge along a pretty wooded stretch of the Water of Leith path. For a slap-up Italian trattoria-style lunch, try Sotto or the excellent value set lunch at Stockbridge Eating House.
Lothian Buses 29, 33 or 37 from South Bridge.

Newhaven

Take the tram to the final stop and discover Newhaven harbour. Walk along the waterfront to Wardie Bay, a tucked away beach and a favourite local swimming spot. Return to Newhaven and order fish and chips from The Fishmarket to eat outside watching the boats bob in the harbour. Maybe stay for the sunset with a cold glass of wine on the terrace, then it’s an easy tram back to the city centre.
Edinburgh Trams to Newhaven.

Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park

A city with a mountain in the middle? Pretty iconic, and also the perfect place to feel miles away from it all. The main route to the top can get busy, but there’s a network of paths around the park to explore. Check the noticeboards and do stick to the paths, there are steep drops. For an easy option, follow Queens Drive around the bottom of the mountain, taking in Dunsapie Loch and St Margaret’s Loch and giving 360-degree views of the city, across the Forth to Fife and to the Pentland Hills. It takes about an hour and a half to walk and is bike, buggy and wheelchair friendly. Pick up a sandwich from Alby’s Southside to take with you.

Union Canal: Fountainbridge

The canal and accompanying path goes all the way to Glasgow through Falkirk, so you can walk for miles if you feel so inclined. Start at Lochrin Basin, then stroll to Harrison Park (1.2 miles), past brightly painted residential houseboats and the Leamington Lift Bridge. For a longer walk, continue to Slateford Aqueduct (2.5 miles) which carries the canal for 152 metres above the Water of Leith and the road below. A path beside the bridge takes you to the Water of Leith Conservation Trust visitor centre, loos and a cafe. In the area, try welcoming Kafe Kweer for coffee, pastries and hearty vegetarian lunches, or The Fountain for pub food and pints before retracing your steps back along the canal, duly refreshed.

The Pitt, Granton

Newly reopened in a new location earlier this year, The Pitt is a street-food destination worth knowing about. It’s on the waterfront at Granton with views across the Firth of Forth, easily accessible by bike or a 10-minute walk from the bus stop. Vendors change but currently include Choola Nepalese street food and Lebanese wraps from Lazeez. There’s a big indoor bar area and regular events. On site you’ll also find Soul Water Sauna, with two saunas and cold water plunge pools: a unique way to work up an appetite. From here you can walk along the promenade to Cramond village (2.3 miles) and if the tides are right, even walk out to Cramond island over the causeway.
Lothian Buses 22 from Lothian Road to Waterfront Avenue then a 10-minute walk. The Pitt is open Thursday to Sunday.

Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams are contactless, tap on and tap off, single fares are £2.20, capped at £5 per day. Download the Edinburgh Bus and Tram app to plan routes and track bus times.

I took a week of vacation to relax, clear my head and stop obsessing over depressing news.

I hear frequently from people who say that, for their peace of mind, they’re tuning out the news altogether, so I tried it for a couple of days. Opened a book. Walked the dog.

Steve Lopez

Steve Lopez is a California native who has been a Los Angeles Times columnist since 2001. He has won more than a dozen national journalism awards and is a four-time Pulitzer finalist.

But I’m in the news business, and I felt like a hypocrite, so I kept sneaking peeks. As it turns out, that wasn’t healthy.

You can’t follow a single 24-hour news cycle without questioning your own sanity.

Do we really live in a country in which the president posts fake videos of a predecessor being arrested?

In which a dead man’s sex trafficking crimes dominate White House news for days on end?

In which the federal government has made it a priority to arrest tamale vendors and fire meteorologists?

President Trump holds a gavel after signing the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” at the White House in Washington, D.C., on July 4.

(Brendan Smialowski / Pool / AFP via Getty Images)

In which the Social Security Administration sends us emails fawning over the president and making false claims, the White House jokes and memes about immigration raids and the Department of Homeland Security triggers a trolling war with social media posts about its version of national heritage?

I have a weekly goal of avoiding alcoholic beverages on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, but in this political culture, what chance do I have?

With lots of time to practice, I picked up my guitar, but events of the last few weeks continued to haunt me.

The “Big Beautiful Bill” that Trump signed into law on July 4 will add trillions to the national debt, heap tax breaks on those who need them least and rip healthcare coverage away from the neediest. As a result, L.A. County’s health services are anticipating federal cutbacks in the hundreds of millions of dollars.

“We can’t survive this big a cut,” Barbara Ferrer, L.A. County’s head of public health, told the Times for a story by Rebecca Ellis and Niamh Ordner. She added: “I’ve been around a long time. I’ve never actually seen this much disdain for public health.”

Dr. Jonathan LoPresti, who worked at County/USC for decades and is an associate professor of clinical medicine at the Keck School of Medicine at USC, is alarmed. He sent me an a copy of an opinion piece he’s writing, which includes a warning that county hospitals could “again be overrun with the poor … and homeless, leading to further hospital and ER overcrowding, delayed discharges and reduction in routine health maintenance … That could lead to an increase in community TB cases and more serious complications of treatable disease, as well as deaths.”

He added this:

“How many public deaths are people willing to accept?”

There is no limit, judging by crystal clear signals from Washington.

I think we can all agree that historic rainstorms, hurricanes and wildfires in the United States and the rest of the world will continue to kill thousands.

Here’s a synopsis of the Trump response:

The U.S. climate change website has been shut down.

Protesters gather on the National Mall for the “Hands Off” protest against the administration of President Trump on April 5.

(Dominic Gwinn / Middle East Images / AFP via Getty Images)

The administration says the Federal Emergency Management Agency should be eliminated, and the urban search and rescue chief has resigned, citing chaos and dangerous disaster response delays.

Layoffs and buyouts have reduced National Weather Service ranks by 14% despite warnings of dire consequences.

So I swam laps, thinking that having my head under might help, but it only made me feeling like I was drowning.

Hundreds of probationary workers at the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration have been fired, and the fulltime staff will be trimmed by 2,000.

These cuts, and the elimination of federal support for scientific research, are damaging in obvious ways. But when I asked UCLA professor Alex Hall what’s most disturbing, here’s what the director of the Center for Climate Science had to say:

“I feel like the thing that’s most chilling is the way the word ‘climate’ has become a dirty word.”

In other words, the politicization of the subject — Trump and supporters insist human-caused climate change is either exaggerated or a hoax — has created a form of censorship.

“That’s where we really start to face dangers — when people can’t talk about something,” said Hall, who has been studying the link between climate change and California wildfires.

I may be a little biased on this topic. My daughter just graduated from college with a degree in earth science. What she and thousands like her are being told, essentially, is, “Good for you, but the planet’s health is neither a concern nor a priority. If you’re looking for work, the Border Patrol is hiring, and cryptocurrency might be a good career path.”

So there you have it. That’s how I spent my summer vacation, failing miserably in my attempt to look the other way.

But all was not lost.

I played pickleball a couple of times, in Glendale and Los Feliz, and suffered no major injuries. I took my beagle Philly to Rosie’s Dog Beach in Long Beach and watched him race around like the happiest hound in the world. And, borrowing from Trump’s penchant for cutbacks, I’ve trimmed my list of no-alcohol days from three to two.

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One of the underrated luxuries of living in Los Angeles is how easy it is to make a quick escape. With nothing more than a full tank of gas and an overnight bag in the trunk, you’re only a few hours from pine-scented trails, fog-wrapped coastlines and sun-soaked desert hideaways. If you’re traveling with a dog, even better: California is dotted with towns that don’t just allow pets — they basically roll out the red carpet for them.

Los Angeles is a dog town, no bones about it. In this weeklong series, we dig into the obsession.

My dog Charlie has been my steadfast companion since I brought him home in 2021: a calming presence when I’m racing to meet a deadline, and a blur of excitement the moment he senses we’re heading out the door. Traveling with him now isn’t just routine — it’s part of the joy.

We’ve taken more than a dozen weekend getaways together: some mapped out with military precision, others sketched out over coffee. Along the way, Charlie has darted into waves, waddled down wooded trails and stretched out like a tiny emperor beneath cafe tables, soaking up the scene.

Over time, I’ve picked up a few practical tips that help make the journey of traveling with a dog smoother:

• Call ahead to confirm pet policies. Just because a spot was dog-friendly once doesn’t mean it still is. (My favorite bookstore in Ojai, for instance, no longer allows pups due to overcrowding.) It’s worth checking on weight limits, extra fees and room restrictions — details that may not be listed online.

• Pack a few familiar comforts. Charlie never travels without a half-dozen of his favorite squeaky toys. A cozy bed, treats and even a dog-approved playlist (he’s partial to ‘90s teen pop) can go a long way in making your pup feel at home.

• Plan for pit stops. Every dog has their limit on the road; Charlie’s is about two hours. That’s when he starts getting antsy and throwing side-eye that clearly says, “Stretch time!” Before you head out, map a few good stops: scenic rest areas, cafes with outdoor seating or quick walking trails to help burn off some energy.

Once the essentials are covered, the only thing left is choosing your backdrop. Here’s a short list of destinations around the state that strike the right balance: beautiful, accessible and dog-loving. Whether you’re chasing salty breezes, crisp mountain air or just a patio brunch with water bowls on standby, these eight California getaways are sure to charm you and your furry friend.