List of All Articles with Tag 'euro'

A priest from Ukraine’s Orthodox Church has been arrested along with four others for stealing £52m of illegally obtained ancient jewellery. The items consisted of 11 gold artefacts, including a belt, earrings and necklaces. They were smuggled out of Ukraine in 2016 and had allegedly been put up for sale in Madrid. The gold is believed to be from the eighth and fourth centuries BC and to be a part of Ukraine’s national heritage. Spanish police on Monday said they had made the arrests in connection with the case and had confiscated all the items. According to authorities, the valuable items went missing from public display between 2009 and 2013 at an undisclosed museum in Kyiv. The pieces were then transported out of Ukraine with the aid of forged documents falsely claiming affiliation with the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. Spanish law enforcement officers managed to seize an ornate gold belt in 2021, while the remaining artefacts were confiscated in recent weeks after attempts to sell them in the Spanish capital. The police operation involved cooperation from various countries, including Albania, Bulgaria, Cyprus, North Macedonia and Ukraine. Police said the arrests were made in recent weeks after attempts were allegedly made to sell the valuable items in Madrid. The arrested individuals include two Ukrainians, one of whom is a member of the clergy and three Spaniards. The artefacts are currently undergoing examination by Spain’s National Archaeological Museum and the country’s Cultural Heritage Institute. The Scythians who dominated eastern Europe, including what is present-day Ukraine, were known for their metal work and artefacts and jewellery from the era are among Ukraine’s best-known historical heritage. In a separate incident, Ukrainian authorities recovered 14 archaeological items allegedly stolen from areas occupied by Russia. A Russian man was arrested after attempting to smuggle them into the US. Read More Ukraine-Russia war - live: Putin pushes more soldiers to frontline despite failing offensive Headteacher who helped young Ukrainian refugees to be honoured at Windsor Castle Ukraine destroys all Russia-launched drones and cruise missile in overnight attacks

Hermes sales jumped as wealthy shoppers in the US and Europe splurged on the French company’s pricey Birkin

Germany’s economy is projected to dislodge Japan’s as the world’s third largest in 2023, helped by a slide

An excess of planned renewable energy projects seeking to link to the UK’s electric grid threatens to discourage

Bitcoin extended a rally fueled by expectations of fresh demand from exchange-traded funds, reaching the highest price since

With more hours of sunshine than anywhere else in the British Isles, Jersey is a year-round destination that is equally appealing in the height of summer as it is in the bleak mid-winter. Whether you head to this corner of the Channel Islands to play around in the sea on paddleboards, kayaks and surfboards, or to explore award-winning museums and attractions, you’re bound to have a memorable holiday. For those interested in the island’s history, visit the Jersey War Tunnels, where exhibits tell the story of what life was like for islanders at the time of German occupation during the Second World War. You can also visit Elizabeth Castle, which was commissioned by Sir Walter Raleigh when he was governor of Jersey at the beginning of the 17th century. But where to stay? You might want to opt for a seaview hotel right on the golden sands of one of the island’s many beaches; a granite manor house surrounded by country walks, or perhaps somewhere in the heart of the cosmopolitan capital, St Helier. No matter in which part of the island you choose to stay, we’ve found the best hotels in Jersey that will provide a home away from home, whatever the season. The best hotels in Jersey are: Best spa hotel: Grand Jersey Hotel and Spa Best luxury hotel: Longueville Manor Best boutique hotel: Old Court House Inn Best budget hotel: Hotel de Normandie Best hotel for walkers: Château la Chaire Best family-friendly hotel: The Merton Best romantic hotel for couples: The Club Hotel and Spa Best beach hotel: L’Horizon Beach Hotel and Spa Best spa hotel: Grand Jersey Hotel and Spa Neighbourhood: St Helier Standing guard over Elizabeth Castle since 1890, this luxury hotel just off the Esplanade in St Helier has played host to royalty and aristocracy. There’s still a hint of the golden age of travel, with porters to take your bag and a concierge on hand to answer questions about where to go and what to see. However, it’s still a thoroughly modern hotel, with a champagne bar, cinema room and soothing spa. The heated indoor pool is complemented by a steam room and sauna, while Elemis treatments include biotec facials and hot-stone massages. After visiting the spa, cocoon yourself in a soft blanket in the low-lit relaxation room. Don’t miss the fine-dining restaurant Tassili, which holds four AA rosettes. Best luxury hotel: Longueville Manor Neighbourhood: St Saviour The island’s only Relais & Chateaux hotel, this granite manor house with an impressive circular drive oozes luxury from the minute you pull up at the imposing front door (lit by dozens of pillar candles on the stone steps if you arrive at night). With just 29 rooms and suites, the place never feels crowded, whether you are taking a stroll in the kitchen garden, swimming in the heated outdoor pool, walking in the extensive grounds or enjoying the hot tub in the bijou spa. Staff take the time to learn your names and preferences, so you feel looked after throughout your stay. Choose the tower suite to feel like the Lady of Shalott. Best boutique hotel: Old Court House Inn Neighbourhood: St Aubin With just 10 rooms in a building that dates back to the 15th century, this boutique inn is both characterful and affordable. Situated right on St Aubin’s harbour, you can watch the private yachts bob in the marina (or not, depending on the tide) and easily explore the art galleries and antique shops that make up St Aubin’s village. Rooms are all unique, with one boasting a roll-top bath and another an outdoor terrace with whirlpool tub. The menu (dine at the pub, restaurant or outdoor terrace) includes steaks, burgers and battered cod and chips, which you can wash down with the house ale. Best budget hotel: The Hotel de Normandie Neighbourhood: St Helier This is a great place to bed down if you’re on a budget. Close to the seawater bathing pool at Havre des Pas, Hotel de Normandie is within walking distance of St Helier’s town centre, from where you can catch buses all over the island (the hotel is also on a bus route into town, if you’re feeling lazy). Rooms in the Victorian gabled building are higgledy-piggledy, with single and family rooms in the mix, and most are fitted out smartly with colourful drapes at the windows and bright prints on the wall. The real boon is the heated indoor pool with whirlpool and sauna, which is unexpected at this price and welcome in the cooler months when the sea is less inviting. Best hotel for walkers: Château la Chaire Neighbourhood: Rozel Perched on a hillside high above Rozel Bay, this dog-friendly country house hotel has an old-fashioned charm and is a luxurious place to stay. Enjoy a glass of bubbly in the residents’ lounge, which is decorated with stucco plasterwork and antique furniture; or a slap-up meal in the wood-panelled restaurant. The gardens are full of botanical plants, and it’s from here you can enjoy panoramic view of the bay. In a matter of minutes, you can join one of Jersey’s most spectacular coastal walks along the cliff path that leads to Bonne Nuit Bay. A shorter walk in the opposite direction will take you to Saint Catherine’s breakwater, from where you can get boats to the outer islands of Les Écréhous. Best family-friendly hotel: The Merton Neighbourhood: St Saviour This is the closest Jersey gets to a resort hotel. Think evening tribute acts and bingo, buffet restaurant and swimming pool with flumes and lazy river. Needless to say, it’s popular with families, who can make use of rooms with bunk beds and the non-stop entertainment. Older kids will love the surf lessons on the flowrider (the only one on the island), too. The position is within walking distance of the town centre, from where you can pick up buses to all the major attractions and beaches, so it’s a good spot for a car-free holiday to Jersey. Best romantic hotel for couples: The Club Hotel Neighbourhood: St Helier The finest dining experience on the island is to be found in this unassuming hotel tucked away off a main road leading into the heart of Jersey’s capital St Helier. Having held a Michelin star for the best part of 20 years (despite chefs coming and going), the hotel’s restaurant, Bohemia, has established itself as a reliable destination to return to year after year. Tasting menus are always exquisite and accompanied by surprising wine pairings that take you out of your comfort zone. The celebratory feel of dining here makes it popular with couples looking for a romantic weekend away. You can also enjoy massage and beauty treatments in the compact spa; an indoor and outdoor pool with thermal suite, and a well stocked honesty bar. Best beach hotel: L’Horizon Beach Hotel and Spa Neighbourhood: St Brelade You can argue with locals for hours about which is the best beach but, if you do it often enough, you’ll regularly hear St Brelade being mentioned. It’s got everything you want: a perfect arc of golden sand; watersports such as paddleboarding, kayaking and waterskiing; life guards in the summer, and a promenade of shops and restaurants. Tucked away at the end of the promenade is L’Horizon hotel, with floor-to-ceiling windows framing the seaside idyll. An indoor swimming pool is favoured by the cold-shy in the shoulder seasons, while a spa serves up Elemis treatments. Read more of our Europe hotel reviews: Best Isle of Wight hotels Where to stay in Paris Best hotels on the Isles of Scilly Read more about Europe travel: The best hotels in Europe Europe’s best road trips Best budget European city breaks Read More The UK’s 10 favourite beaches and seaside holidays in Europe Best holiday destinations for November to get some late season autumn sun Best boutique hotels in Paris 2023: Stylish stays at lush locations The UK and Ireland’s best country house hotels for 2023 8 of the best wine tour holidays around the world Eight best Northern Lights holidays, short trips and packages

In a nutshell: In Amsterdam’s oldest five-star hotel, no two rooms are the same, restaurants serve up local cuisine, and a 1909 saloon boat offers tours of the city’s canals. The neighbourhood Amsterdam attracts visitors from all around the world thanks to its rich history, eclectic museums, bike lifestyle and coffee shop culture. The city is wonderfully walkable and the five-star Pulitzer hotel places you in prime location to explore all the Dutch capital has to offer. Looming over the canal belt and in the heart of the historic Nine Streets neighborhood (right out of a Wes Anderson movie), this quintessential district is brimming with boutique shops, charming cafes and enticing restaurants. Located five minutes down the canal, you’ll find Anne Frank’s house while the Museumplein (home to Rijksmuseum, the Van Gough museum and Moco), Amsterdam Centraal and Vondelpark are a mere 20 minute walk away. If you’re keen to cycle like a local, the hotel is equipped with Pulitzer bikes and the erudite concierge Ron Stoevelaar is on hand to show you the best routes. The look Set within 25 Golden Age canal houses, the Pulitzer forms an entire block in the Nine Streets area. Founded in 1970 by Peter Pulitzer (grandson of the Pulitzer Prize founder Joseph Pulitzer), the hotel went through a £1.5 million restoration in 2016. The hotel combines 17th century Dutch elements and mid-century design (think beamed ceilings, historic fireplaces, period antiques and an impressive collection of art, books and music) with contemporary features. Every nook (and there’s many) of the hotel offers a glance into the past – whether it’s in the library of Pulitzer Prize winning books, the lobby with Persian rugs and paintings or in the four luxury collectors suites. Exemplifying the old meeting the new, look out for what appears to be a 17th century painting of a floral bouquet in the lobby. A closer look will reveal it to be a photograph of melted cutlery by a contemporary artist. The vibe Oozing elegance and class, the Pulitzer’s architectually impressive buildings are enriched with antique pieces and Dutch design details. A beguiling space, the grand lobby has a buzzy atmosphere thanks to the laid-back Pulitzer Garden bar and eatery that are tucked away toward the back, while the check-in and concierge desks are warm and welcoming. Upon arrival, you’ll spy an eclectic clientele of 30-somethings talking over old fashioned cocktails at the bar, upmarket travellers in the mid-century armchairs, older couples chatting to the concierge and families feasting in the lobby’s Italian-inspired restaurant. Stepping out of the Pulitzer doors and onto the canal side, picturesque Amsterdam – without the chaos of the main streets – is on your doorstep (just try not to collide with any of the bikes swishing past). Bed and bath Despite being home to more than 200 rooms, the hotel has a cosy, boutique feel owing to the canal house layout and warren of mood-lit interlocking corridors (there’s much enjoyment to be had in getting lost in the Pulitzer). Each room is unique and inspired by an aspect of Dutch design. With themed-collectors suites, family size spaces and canal-view rooms – as well as generous, cosy and classic spaces available – there’s a room to suit every kind of traveller. Featuring decadent marble bathrooms (complete with luxury Debaser toiletries and well-pressured power showers), the rooms boast custom made headboards, a work desk with a mirror, mid-century drinks trolleys and chaise lounges. Thoughtful details such as bookshelves, a bike repair kit, an umbrella, French press and Dutch sweet treats all elevate the space, while windows either look out over the canal, the street below or the Pulitzer garden in the centre of the hotel. You can opt in or out of having your sheets changed each morning – the hotel reminds you of the importance of saving water – by placing a card on your bed. Food and drink There are two restaurants on site at the Pulitzer: the all-day dining eatery Jansz and the more laidback Pulitzer Garden restaurant. The former favours locally-sourced ingredients and classic Dutch cuisine, with the lunch and dinner line-up brimming with seasonal small plates, freshly caught fish dishes (the shrimp croquettes and octopus were a delight) and refined classics like burgers and steaks. Jansz is also where breakfast is served, with guests able to order a la carte (the omelette is a must) or try the continental buffet. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the Pulitzer Garden has indoor and outdoor tables with a hearty menu inspired by Italian cuisine – think aubergine parmigiana, lobster spaghetti and chicken caesar salad. After dinner, be sure to head to the glamorous and deliciously moody Pulitzer Bar. Sink into the armchairs, sofas and bar stools to while away the evening with signature or classic cocktails (try the breakfast margarita and new Amsterdam). Public areas The neighbourhood-style complex includes the Jansz restaurant, Pulitzer Garden bar, restaurant and garden seating, the Pulitzer Bar and the resplendent lobby. Whether you’re a guest or not, the Pulitzer bar is a must-visit. Elegant and free from the havoc of city centre bars, the Art Deco-style bar looks over the canal and is the perfect spot for people watching. Open to guests, there’s also a 24-hour gym at the Pulitzer with machines, yoga mats, weights, towels and chilled water. When visiting the Pulitzer, you’ll notice two gleaming boats docked in front of the hotel. The Tourist (which famously took Winston Churchill on a trip through the city in 1946) and the smaller Belle are available for private and group tours for guests and the public at an extra cost. Built at the beginning of the 20th century, the interiors are complete with polished teak and brass, luxurious carpeting, marble, leather and original bevelled glass. Lasting 90 minutes, the concierge’s guided cruises take you on a whistlestop tour of the city’s canals – and there’s a self-service mini bar for on-board drinks. Nuts and bolts Room count: 225 Freebies: Breakfast at Jansz restaurant (if included in your booking); gym access; Pulitzer tote bag; Pulitzer card deck; welcome stroopwafels; coffee or tea in the room. Wifi: Free. Extra charges: Room service; additional beds for children; pets. Disability access: There are fully fitted accessible guest rooms available to reserve. Pet policy: A small dog or cat is allowed in rooms at a cost of €50 per day. Bottom line Best thing: Impeccable service, prime location for exploring the city, excellent restaurants and an intimate bar. Worst thing: Some might not get on with the thin doors and walls in the bedroom (it is an old building after all), meaning you can occasionally hear movement in the corridor. Plus, we would have liked to see slightly more reasonable prices in the otherwise more laidback Pulitzer Garden restaurant. Perfect for: Upmarket travellers, foodies, couples and families. Not right for: Those after a budget city break. Instagram from: The moody Pulitzer bar, canal-view room, The Tourist boat tour or Jansz window tables. Room rate: Double rooms from £351 a night. Read more of our hotel reviews: The elegant Landmark Hotel London Luxury hotel meets B&B at The Dante House The Ritz-Carlton, Abama hotel review Read more on Amsterdam travel: Amsterdam travel guide: Best things to do Best hotels in Amsterdam Everything British tourists shouldn’t do in Amsterdam Read More Independent Traveller guide to best hotels and short breaks Best UK hotels 2022 Best hotels in Paris for 2023 Amsterdam travel guide: Best things to do and where to stay for a 2023 city break The best holidays to book for November, from winter sun in Oman to Scandi Christmas markets Best hotels in Europe 2023: Where to stay for a city, beach or retreat break

The pronunciations of names like ‘Yves’ and ‘Geneviève’ aren’t hard once you’ve heard them a few times.

Abdesalem Lassoued shot dead two Swedish nationals before a Euro 2024 qualifier game last week.

Tens of thousands of women in Iceland are due to take part in the country’s first day-long strike in almost 50 years to raise awareness of gender-based violence and the gender pay gap. Katrin Jakobsdottir, Iceland’s prime minister, will participate in the protest, which will involve women and non-binary people stopping paid and unpaid labour on Tuesday. Workers from a range of sectors have said they will take part in the women’s strike, which is the first day-long protest since 1975, when women also downed tools and stopped work. Sonja Yr Porbergssdottir, chair of the Icelandic Federation for Public Workers, told The Independent: “Workers from all major industries are taking part: healthcare workers, teachers, service workers, finance workers, care workers, energy workers etc. “We also expect women and non-binary people on parental leave, the elderly, disabled people and others outside of the labour market to participate.” She said it is hard to gauge how many people will participate, but explained that more than 25,000 women took part in the 1975 strike, and she hopes that the number taking part in Tuesday’s event will top this figure. “The support of the women’s strike is widespread – schools are being closed, health services will be at the bare minimum, and major companies have made statements about support, so it will be a major event in any case,” she added. Ms Porbergssdottir noted that “significant strides” have been made since the 1975 strike, but cautioned that women still earn 21 per cent less than men. “Occupations traditionally associated with women are consistently undervalued and underpaid,” she added. “Sectors such as cleaning, childcare and caregiving are some of the lowest paid in society, disproportionately affecting women. Furthermore, women still bear the primary responsibility for childcare, perpetuating inequality.” Ms Porbergssdottir said that the strike also seeks to raise awareness of gender-based violence, as she explained that transgender people, women with disabilities, and women of colour endure higher levels of violence. The original protest, dubbed “Women’s Day Off” or “Kvennafri” in Icelandic, brought the nation to a standstill as women refused to work, perform childcare, or cook. Some 90 per cent of Icelandic women are estimated to have stopped work for the day, with schools shut down and flights cancelled due to a dearth of staff. Children were brought to work by their fathers because of a lack of childcare. The protest triggered far-reaching change in the country: Iceland subsequently elected the first woman to be an elected president in the world, and rolled out its first Gender Equality Act. BSRB, the country’s biggest federation of public worker unions, along with 31 associations, is taking part in the strike, according to local publication Mbl.is. “First and foremost, I am showing solidarity with Icelandic women with this,” the country’s prime minister told the news outlet. The protest’s organisers want the strike to raise awareness of sexual violence and domestic abuse as well as the undervaluing of sectors in which women are over-represented. Campaigners hope more people will participate in Tuesday’s protest than took part in the 1975 strike. The World Economic Forum recently declared Iceland the world’s most gender-equal nation for the 14th year in a row. Read More ‘18 more months, baby. Then I’m in Iceland’: The group helping trans people to leave the US Two in five Britons think championing women’s equality discriminates against men

The world’s oldest dog survived until the age of 31 and his family owes his long life to his unusual diet of human food. Bobi the Portuguese mastiff only ate what his human family ate, soaked in water to remove any seasoning. His family, the Costas credit his 31-year lifespan to his calm and peaceful environment and his freedom to roam since they never put him on a leash or chain. The sociable creature spent most of his time in the back garden with his feline friends, say his family. The oldest dog ever passed away on 21 October at his home in the village of Conqueiros where he lived his entire life. Dr Karen Becker, a veterinarian who met Bobi several times announced his death, she wrote: "Last night, this sweet boy earned his wings. "Despite outliving every dog in history, his 11,478 days on earth would never be enough, for those who loved him. "Godspeed, Bobi…you’ve taught the world all you were meant to teach." Bobi was announced as the world’s oldest dog living and oldest dog ever on 2 February 2023. He was registered with the Veterinary Medical Service of the Municipality of Leira who confirmed his birth date of 11 May 1992. Despite being the world’s oldest dog, Bobi had a precarious start to life when Leonel’s father didn’t want to keep him and his fellow litter of four puppies. Leonel’s parents took the litter to have them put down whilst their mother was away but they missed little Bobi who hid in a pile of wood in the outbuilding where he was born. The children kept the puppy’s existence a secret until they found out and Bobi became part of the family. Leonel, 38, has owned several old dogs including Bobi’s mother, Gira, who lived to be 18, and another one of his dogs, Chicote, died at 22. Bobi enjoyed a long life with the Costa’s and he had over 100 guests at his 31st birthday party. “We see situations like this as a normal result of the life that they have, but Bobi is one of a kind,” Leonel said after Bobi was awarded his record. Read More That’s a lot of pies! Monster pumpkin breaks world record Russia Ukraine war live: Putin pushes more soldiers to frontline despite heavy losses Iceland PM to take part in first women’s strike in almost 50 years: ‘Women’s Day Off’ Russia Ukraine war live: Putin pushes more soldiers to frontline despite heavy losses Iceland PM to take part in first women’s strike in almost 50 years: ‘Women’s Day Off’ Ukraine destroys all Russia-launched drones and cruise missile in overnight attacks

Week 3 of EuroLeague action brought the first double-game week and helped give some more space in the standings. Here’s a breakdown of week three’s winners and losers.