In our latest roundup of travel news, we bring you bathing tips from an onsen expert, a bear encounter in a Tibet hotel room, plus a new ranking of the world’s most liveable cities.
Bathing and swim spots
Japan’s famed hot springs, or onsen, are one of the country’s unique attractions, but international visitors need to be aware of the unspoken protocols, such as strict punctuality and – sometimes – waterproof bandages to cover tattoos. Oh, and full nudity is required.
A Japanese hot spring expert shares her advice on how to best enjoy the experience and how to avoid dangerous temperature-related mistakes, so a trip to the ER isn’t a new stop on your vacation itinerary.
Just a few years ago, a swim in Paris’ River Seine might have landed you in the hospital, too, thanks to toxic levels of pollution. However, the river was cleaned up ahead of the Paris Olympics and now it’s the most fashionable new swim spot in the French capital – particularly with this year’s record-breaking heat.
