Pictured: The world’s most spectacular palaces, from Hawaii to the UK


Spectacular indeed.

We’ve scoured the world to bring you the world’s most edifying royal edifices – palaces that are big on beauty and plain big in scale.

Behold the Palace of Parliament in Bucharest, which holds the Guinness World Record for being the heaviest building on the planet with its 700,000 tonnes of steel and bronze.

Marvel at Hampton Court Palace with its vast kitchens, where 200 cooks would rustle up feeds for Henry VIII and his entourage.

And feel your jaw drop as you gaze upon Italy’s Palace of Caserta, with its 1,742 windows and 1,200 rooms.

Then there’s the palatial Potala Palace in Tibet, which is the world’s highest palace at 12,139ft (3,699m) above sea level. Scroll down to feast your eyes on these vast premises and more, which take the art of housebuilding to a whole new level…

LAKE PALACE, UDAIPUR, INDIA: This seemingly floating palace was built between 1743 and 1746 as a summer residence for Maharana Jai Singh II of Udaipur, Rajasthan. Udaipur.org.uk says the ‘wonderful architecture of the Lake Palace will send shivers down your spine’. Other highlights include a series of courtyards and opulent rooms decked out with intricate crystal work, stained glass windows and mosaics. The palace now serves as a luxury hotel operated by Taj Hotels 

BUCKINGHAM PALACE, LONDON, UK: Since 1837, this magnificent edifice has been the official London residence of the UK's sovereigns, though it was originally built at the beginning of the 18th century as a home for the 3rd Earl of Mulgrave, John Sheffield. George III bought it in 1761 for his wife, Queen Charlotte, and it became known as The Queen's House. Over the years it was vastly expanded. Today, according to www.royal.uk, it has '775 rooms... 19 State rooms, 52 Royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices and 78 bathrooms'

BUCKINGHAM PALACE, LONDON, UK: Since 1837, this magnificent edifice has been the official London residence of the UK’s sovereigns, though it was originally built at the beginning of the 18th century as a home for the 3rd Earl of Mulgrave, John Sheffield. George III bought it in 1761 for his wife, Queen Charlotte, and it became known as The Queen’s House. Over the years it was vastly expanded. Today, according to www.royal.uk, it has ‘775 rooms… 19 State rooms, 52 Royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices and 78 bathrooms’

DOGE'S PALACE, VENICE, ITALY: Dating to the early half of the 14th century, the Doge's Palace served as Doge's residence and the seat of the Venetian government for several centuries until the fall of the Venetian Republic in 1797. The Gothic masterpiece was opened as a public museum in 1923. One of the many highlights is the Chamber of the Great Council, which is one of the largest rooms in Europe, measuring 173ft (53m) in length and 82ft (25m) width-wise

DOGE’S PALACE, VENICE, ITALY: Dating to the early half of the 14th century, the Doge’s Palace served as Doge’s residence and the seat of the Venetian government for several centuries until the fall of the Venetian Republic in 1797. The Gothic masterpiece was opened as a public museum in 1923. One of the many highlights is the Chamber of the Great Council, which is one of the largest rooms in Europe, measuring 173ft (53m) in length and 82ft (25m) width-wise

POTALA PALACE, LHASA, TIBET: Located at 12,139ft (3,699m) above sea level, Potala Palace in Tibet's capital, Lhasa, is the world's highest palace. Built in 1649, it served as the winter palace for Dalai Lamas until 1959. It was then opened as a museum, although practising monks still live there. One of the most impressive features is a stupa of the fifth Dalai Lama, which is 48.7ft (14.85m) high and overlaid with 4.1 tons of gold, according to www.chinahighlights.com

POTALA PALACE, LHASA, TIBET: Located at 12,139ft (3,699m) above sea level, Potala Palace in Tibet’s capital, Lhasa, is the world’s highest palace. Built in 1649, it served as the winter palace for Dalai Lamas until 1959. It was then opened as a museum, although practising monks still live there. One of the most impressive features is a stupa of the fifth Dalai Lama, which is 48.7ft (14.85m) high and overlaid with 4.1 tons of gold, according to www.chinahighlights.com

NATIONAL PALACE, SINTRA, PORTUGAL: Visible for miles around, the National Palace in the Portuguese resort town of Sintra was completed in 1854 and is considered a prime example of European Romantic architecture. The site www.sintra-portugal.com says that the 'two massive chimneys which protrude from the kitchens' have become the icon of Sintra

NATIONAL PALACE, SINTRA, PORTUGAL: Visible for miles around, the National Palace in the Portuguese resort town of Sintra was completed in 1854 and is considered a prime example of European Romantic architecture. The site www.sintra-portugal.com says that the ‘two massive chimneys which protrude from the kitchens’ have become the icon of Sintra 

TOPKAPI PALACE, ISTANBUL, TURKEY: This palace, built by Mehmet the Conqueror in the mid-15th century, was the home for Ottoman sultans for almost 400 years. Following the end of the Ottoman Empire in 1923, the government decided to turn it into a museum

TOPKAPI PALACE, ISTANBUL, TURKEY: This palace, built by Mehmet the Conqueror in the mid-15th century, was the home for Ottoman sultans for almost 400 years. Following the end of the Ottoman Empire in 1923, the government decided to turn it into a museum

PALACE OF VERSAILLES, FRANCE: The Palace of Versailles was originally a hunting lodge designed by Louis XIII, but his son, Louis XIV, extended it to spectacular effect and it became home to the French court and government in 1682. From there, it continued to evolve under the rule of different kings right up to the French Revolution, when affairs then moved to Paris. It was decided to open the palace as a museum 'dedicated to all the glories of France' in the early 19th century. The official website states that the palace has 2,300 rooms spread over 63,154 m sq. It has been a Unesco World Heritage site for 30 years

PALACE OF VERSAILLES, FRANCE: The Palace of Versailles was originally a hunting lodge designed by Louis XIII, but his son, Louis XIV, extended it to spectacular effect and it became home to the French court and government in 1682. From there, it continued to evolve under the rule of different kings right up to the French Revolution, when affairs then moved to Paris. It was decided to open the palace as a museum ‘dedicated to all the glories of France’ in the early 19th century. The official website states that the palace has 2,300 rooms spread over 63,154 m sq. It has been a Unesco World Heritage site for 30 years

MYSORE PALACE, KARNATAKA, INDIA: This spectacular palace in the south Indian state of Karnataka was built in 1912 for the Wodeyar dynasty, who ruled over the Kingdom of Mysore from 1399 to 1947. The website Know India says of the palace, which is now a visitor attraction: 'Built in Indo-Saracenic style with domes, turrets, arches and colonnades, the palace is often compared with the Buckingham Palace of Britain because of its grandeur. Henry Irwin, the British consultant architect of Madras state, designed it'

MYSORE PALACE, KARNATAKA, INDIA: This spectacular palace in the south Indian state of Karnataka was built in 1912 for the Wodeyar dynasty, who ruled over the Kingdom of Mysore from 1399 to 1947. The website Know India says of the palace, which is now a visitor attraction: ‘Built in Indo-Saracenic style with domes, turrets, arches and colonnades, the palace is often compared with the Buckingham Palace of Britain because of its grandeur. Henry Irwin, the British consultant architect of Madras state, designed it’ 

SANSSOUCI PALACE, POTSDAM, GERMANY: Constructed between 1745 and 1747, the Sanssouci Palace was built for Friedrich the Great as his summer retreat. One of the unique features is the terraced vineyard on the southern slope of the Bornstedter ridge (seen above), with its six levels connected by 132 steps

SANSSOUCI PALACE, POTSDAM, GERMANY: Constructed between 1745 and 1747, the Sanssouci Palace was built for Friedrich the Great as his summer retreat. One of the unique features is the terraced vineyard on the southern slope of the Bornstedter ridge (seen above), with its six levels connected by 132 steps

PALACE OF THE PARLIAMENT, BUCHAREST, ROMANIA: This sprawling communist structure, constructed between 1984 and 1997,  is the world's second-biggest administrative building by surface area after the US Pentagon, thanks to a floor area of 365,000 square metres (3,930,000 sq ft). And it holds the Guinness World Record for being the planet's heaviest building, thanks to 700,000 tonnes of steel and bronze combined with 35. million cubic feet (1 million cubic m) of marble, 3,500 tonnes of crystal glass and 31.7million cubic feet (900,000 cubic m) of wood

PALACE OF THE PARLIAMENT, BUCHAREST, ROMANIA: This sprawling communist structure, constructed between 1984 and 1997,  is the world’s second-biggest administrative building by surface area after the US Pentagon, thanks to a floor area of 365,000 square metres (3,930,000 sq ft). And it holds the Guinness World Record for being the planet’s heaviest building, thanks to 700,000 tonnes of steel and bronze combined with 35.3million cubic feet (1 million cubic m) of marble, 3,500 tonnes of crystal glass and 31.7million cubic feet (900,000 cubic m) of wood

ROYAL PALACE OF CASERTA, ITALY: This expansive Baroque-style palace was commissioned by Charles III, the king of Naples, in the mid-18th century as a royal residence and as a rival to the Palace of Versailles. Musement.com notes that it took several decades to complete the palace and the finished building features more than 1,200 rooms and 1,742 windows. It also highlights that the palace also had 'an outrageously high cost'. This was 6,000,000 ducats, or around £700million ($950million)

ROYAL PALACE OF CASERTA, ITALY: This expansive Baroque-style palace was commissioned by Charles III, the king of Naples, in the mid-18th century as a royal residence and as a rival to the Palace of Versailles. Musement.com notes that it took several decades to complete the palace and the finished building features more than 1,200 rooms and 1,742 windows. It also highlights that the palace also had ‘an outrageously high cost’. This was 6,000,000 ducats, or around £700million ($950million)

UMAID BHAWAN PALACE, RAJASTHAN, INDIA: Deemed the world's sixth-largest private residence, the Umaid Bhawan Palace in Rajasthan took 15 years to construct and was completed in 1943. It was built by the Jodhpur royal family and designed by the renowned Edwardian British architect Henry Lanchester. Today, the palace is divided into three parts - a 70-room luxury hotel managed by Taj Hotels, a museum showcasing the royal family's collections and a residence for the maharaja's descendants

UMAID BHAWAN PALACE, RAJASTHAN, INDIA: Deemed the world’s sixth-largest private residence, the Umaid Bhawan Palace in Rajasthan took 15 years to construct and was completed in 1943. It was built by the Jodhpur royal family and designed by the renowned Edwardian British architect Henry Lanchester. Today, the palace is divided into three parts – a 70-room luxury hotel managed by Taj Hotels, a museum showcasing the royal family’s collections and a residence for the maharaja’s descendants 

ALHAMBRA, GRANADA, SPAIN: The Alhambra, which is built on a raised plot overlooking Granada, is a splendid example of Moorish architecture. The showpiece palace was constructed between 1238 and 1358 on the site of a previous fortress. Notjustatourist.com says that one of the palace's standout features is a chamber known as the 'whispering gallery'. It adds: 'The curvature of the ceiling makes the sound travel from one corner to the opposite one, so be careful and don't share any important information while you're there!'

ALHAMBRA, GRANADA, SPAIN: The Alhambra, which is built on a raised plot overlooking Granada, is a splendid example of Moorish architecture. The showpiece palace was constructed between 1238 and 1358 on the site of a previous fortress. Notjustatourist.com says that one of the palace’s standout features is a chamber known as the ‘whispering gallery’. It adds: ‘The curvature of the ceiling makes the sound travel from one corner to the opposite one, so be careful and don’t share any important information while you’re there!’

SCHONBRUNN PALACE, VIENNA, AUSTRIA: This sprawling structure started life as a 16th-century mansion, which evolved into a hunting lodge and then into a palace, framed by picturesque formal gardens. One of the palace's fun facts, as noted by concert-vienna.com, is that Mozart came to Schonbrunn as a six-year-old child to play his first concerts, for the royal family in 1762. It adds: 'Another classical composer to visit the palace was Joseph Haydn, who came as a choirboy to take part in a musical production'

SCHONBRUNN PALACE, VIENNA, AUSTRIA: This sprawling structure started life as a 16th-century mansion, which evolved into a hunting lodge and then into a palace, framed by picturesque formal gardens. One of the palace’s fun facts, as noted by concert-vienna.com, is that Mozart came to Schonbrunn as a six-year-old child to play his first concerts, for the royal family in 1762. It adds: ‘Another classical composer to visit the palace was Joseph Haydn, who came as a choirboy to take part in a musical production’

IOLANI PALACE, HONOLULU, HAWAII: Iolani Palace, which is open to tourists, claims the title of being the only official royal residence in the US. From 1882 to 1893 it served as the official residence of the Hawaiian Kingdom's last two monarchs: King Kalakaua and his sister and successor, Queen Liliuokalani. The tourism authority's website says: 'The palace was a symbol of promise for the Hawaiian Kingdom built by King David Kalakaua, "The Merrie Monarch". Influenced by European architectural styles, this royal residence included Hawaii's first electric light system, flush toilets and intra-house telephones'

IOLANI PALACE, HONOLULU, HAWAII: Iolani Palace, which is open to tourists, claims the title of being the only official royal residence in the US. From 1882 to 1893 it served as the official residence of the Hawaiian Kingdom’s last two monarchs: King Kalakaua and his sister and successor, Queen Liliuokalani. The tourism authority’s website says: ‘The palace was a symbol of promise for the Hawaiian Kingdom built by King David Kalakaua, “The Merrie Monarch”. Influenced by European architectural styles, this royal residence included Hawaii’s first electric light system, flush toilets and intra-house telephones’

WINTER PALACE, ST. PETERSBURG, RUSSIA: This ornate Baroque-style palace on the banks of the River Neva served as the official residence for Russian tsars from 1732 to 1917. Tour company RSPB Travel describes the palace, which is now open as a museum, as 'huge', with 1,057 rooms, 117 staircases, 1,945 windows and 1,786 doors

WINTER PALACE, ST. PETERSBURG, RUSSIA: This ornate Baroque-style palace on the banks of the River Neva served as the official residence for Russian tsars from 1732 to 1917. Tour company RSPB Travel describes the palace, which is now open as a museum, as ‘huge’, with 1,057 rooms, 117 staircases, 1,945 windows and 1,786 doors

QASR AL WATAN, ABU DHABI, UAE: Qasr Al Watan, which was finished in 2017, is a working presidential palace but it is also open to the public for tours. Emirates247.com reveals some fascinating facts about the building, including the fact that its doors took 700 hours to make, with 23-carat gold inlaid into maple wood. The Great Hall, meanwhile, features one of the largest domes in the world, with a diameter of 121ft (37m)

QASR AL WATAN, ABU DHABI, UAE: Qasr Al Watan, which was finished in 2017, is a working presidential palace but it is also open to the public for tours. Emirates247.com reveals some fascinating facts about the building, including the fact that its doors took 700 hours to make, with 23-carat gold inlaid into maple wood. The Great Hall, meanwhile, features one of the largest domes in the world, with a diameter of 121ft (37m) 

THE GRAND PALACE, BANGKOK, THAILAND: Built in 1782, the gleaming Grand Palace is a vast complex of buildings in the heart of Bangkok consisting of royal residences, throne halls, administrative offices and sacred temples. It can be visited daily from 8:30am to 3:30pm

THE GRAND PALACE, BANGKOK, THAILAND: Built in 1782, the gleaming Grand Palace is a vast complex of buildings in the heart of Bangkok consisting of royal residences, throne halls, administrative offices and sacred temples. It can be visited daily from 8:30am to 3:30pm

HAMPTON COURT PALACE, UK: This magnificent palace, built in the early 16th century, was originally commissioned by Cardinal Wolsey as a home, but it went on to attract the King of England, Henry VIII. He used it as a vast leisure complex and he took all six of his wives there. Britain and Britishness notes that the palace is home to the largest surviving 16th-century kitchens in the world. It reveals that '200 cooks worked slavishly from sunup to sundown to feed 800 guests when Henry's entourage was staying'

HAMPTON COURT PALACE, UK: This magnificent palace, built in the early 16th century, was originally commissioned by Cardinal Wolsey as a home, but it went on to attract the King of England, Henry VIII. He used it as a vast leisure complex and he took all six of his wives there. Britain and Britishness notes that the palace is home to the largest surviving 16th-century kitchens in the world. It reveals that ‘200 cooks worked slavishly from sunup to sundown to feed 800 guests when Henry’s entourage was staying’

ESCORIAL MONASTERY AND PALACE, SPAIN: Construction of El Escorial took 21 years, with it finally completed in 1584. The vast palace complex was conceived by King Philip II and the buildings include a church, a monastery, a royal palace, a college and a library. The palace's official website notes that today, the Escorial is a Unesco World Heritage Site and one of Spain's most visited landmarks

ESCORIAL MONASTERY AND PALACE, SPAIN: Construction of El Escorial took 21 years, with it finally completed in 1584. The vast palace complex was conceived by King Philip II and the buildings include a church, a monastery, a royal palace, a college and a library. The palace’s official website notes that today, the Escorial is a Unesco World Heritage Site and one of Spain’s most visited landmarks

FORBIDDEN CITY, BEIJING, CHINA: The Forbidden City, constructed in 1420, is one of the largest palace complexes in the world. China Highlights notes that it covers an area of about 72 hectares (180 acres) with a total floor space of approximately 1.6million sq ft (150,000 sq m) and that it consists of more than 90 palaces, 980 buildings and over 8,728 rooms

FORBIDDEN CITY, BEIJING, CHINA: The Forbidden City, constructed in 1420, is one of the largest palace complexes in the world. China Highlights notes that it covers an area of about 72 hectares (180 acres) with a total floor space of approximately 1.6million sq ft (150,000 sq m) and that it consists of more than 90 palaces, 980 buildings and over 8,728 rooms

ROYAL PALACE AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS: The Royal Palace of Amsterdam is located in the heart of the Dutch capital and it dates to the mid-17th century. It was originally built as a city hall but transformed into a palace in the early 19th century by King Louis Napoleon. Since then, it has been used as an official reception palace by the royal family for almost 200 years, playing host to many events throughout the year

ROYAL PALACE AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS: The Royal Palace of Amsterdam is located in the heart of the Dutch capital and it dates to the mid-17th century. It was originally built as a city hall but transformed into a palace in the early 19th century by King Louis Napoleon. Since then, it has been used as an official reception palace by the royal family for almost 200 years, playing host to many events throughout the year

GRAND KREMLIN PALACE, MOSCOW: The Kremlin, seen above from the banks of the Moskva River, makes for an impressive sight. While the mid-19th century building was once home to the tsars of Russia it is now the official residence of the president. In 2013, Vladimir Putin added a helipad to the roof to help prevent traffic jams caused by his commute convoy

GRAND KREMLIN PALACE, MOSCOW: The Kremlin, seen above from the banks of the Moskva River, makes for an impressive sight. While the mid-19th century building was once home to the tsars of Russia it is now the official residence of the president. In 2013, Vladimir Putin added a helipad to the roof to help prevent traffic jams caused by his commute convoy 

ROYAL PALACE ISTANA NEGARA, KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA: The royal palace of Malaysia opened in 2011 and replaced an older version that is now open as a national museum. The building, which is not open to the public, features 22 golden domes and it cost RM 800m (£1.35m) to build

ROYAL PALACE ISTANA NEGARA, KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA: The royal palace of Malaysia opened in 2011 and replaced an older version that is now open as a national museum. The building, which is not open to the public, features 22 golden domes and it cost RM 800m (£1.35m) to build 



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Nuke your Alexa smart home to exorcise all your ‘ghost’ devices


Alexa will eliminate observe of units if you rename them, but you can set your sensible property appropriate in a single fell swoop.


Ry Crist/CNET

If you’ve gotten in the routine of changing the names and locations of your Alexa-managed intelligent home equipment — good lights, clever plugs, and many others. — devoid of updating Alexa, you don’t will need me to explain to you what a mess that can make of things. Consider telling your Amazon Echo to transform on a clever gentle applying a system identify that Alexa isn’t going to realize and you may see what I necessarily mean. “Sorry,” Alexa will say, “I didn’t obtain a unit named [its new name].”

https://www.youtube.com/check out?v=8vooHXc_Gpk

Do this often plenty of, and your smart house will come to be practically unusable. Worse: Detangling these types of a mess can be a tall get and, before lengthy, you can obtain by yourself ignoring Alexa entirely, controlling your good home with myriad apps on your cellphone as a substitute. 

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Clever house regulate only performs when Alexa is aware what your units are all named.


Chris Monroe/CNET

Nicely, you happen to be in luck, sort of. There’s option, but it truly is fast and dirty. If it appears dangerous it’s since, perfectly, it is: You may have to delete your full clever home and start more than, and you may get rid of any rooms or routines you’ve got established up. But usually the procedure is simple and should only just take a couple of minutes. When it truly is concluded (and you have rebuilt your rooms and routines in the application) you can go again to buying Alexa all-around. 

Here’s how to do it.

You can have to use Alexa’s desktop portal

Initial, put down your cell phone and decide on up your laptop computer — this has to be performed on the desktop edition of the Alexa web site. Upcoming, head above to Alexa’s web interface (of course, that’s a matter), then follow these methods:

1. On the menu on the still left, click Intelligent Property.

2. In the most important pane, click Units.

3. Scroll all the way to the bottom and simply click the box labeled Clear away All.

4. In the popup window, click Take away to affirm.

5. On the up coming site, simply click the box labeled Find.

Now, rejoice: Alexa has pinged all the several expert services you have joined (Philips Hue, Good Lifestyle, etc.) and updated them all with the existing names of all your devices.

There is, as talked about, a downside. Carrying out this will obliterate any teams — including rooms and speaker groups — as nicely as routines you’ve created. That said, odds are, if you might be having the sorts of complications that need a nuclear alternative this kind of as this, they both of those needed to be revamped in any case.

You may possibly require to nuke a person more point, as well

I lately found out a minimal quirk about Amazon Echos — they recall. As in, if you unplug an Echo unit and toss it in a drawer, only to retrieve it later on and reconnect it to your intelligent residence, it remembers the names of equipment on your community when it was final connected. This can wreak its very own form of havoc on your intelligent house. The only way I’ve observed to fix it is to nuke the gadget alone — reset it to manufacturing unit configurations (follow the hyperlink for in depth recommendations on older products). 

On 3rd- and fourth-technology Echo and Echo Dot devices, press and keep the Action Button for 25 seconds (the gentle ring will pulse orange then switch off). The light-weight will appear on once more, this time blue. Wait until finally it turns orange to show it has returned to setup mode.

To reset Echo Present devices to manufacturing facility settings, press and hold the Mute and Quantity Down buttons for 15 seconds or until an Amazon emblem appears. 



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The Suburbs Beckoned, but They Found a Way to Stay in the City


For Ralph and Shamita Etienne-Cummings, the suburbs have very long held a specific allure — primarily since 2010, when their son, Blaze, was born and Mr. Etienne-Cummings’s mother moved into their 1876 rowhouse in Washington, D.C.

“Space grew to become far more of a quality,” Ms. Etienne-Cummings stated. Her spouse, she stated, is “from Seychelles I’m from India. Culturally, we often have family members that lives with us.”

But the gains of dwelling outdoors the metropolis — acquiring a huge yard and a even bigger dwelling — couldn’t contend with comfort of their everyday living in Washington’s Logan Circle neighborhood, on a blocklong avenue coveted for its historic properties and central place.

Credit…Jennifer Chase for The New York Times

“Our son grew up walking almost everywhere with his grandmother,” mentioned Ms. Etienne-Cummings, 52, a lawyer. “We actually wished to continue to be in our neighborhood, but unquestionably necessary more house, and that was hard to do in an spot that’s now crammed up.”

In a stroke of luck, the rowhouse following door came on the marketplace in 2016, and they were equipped to invest in it for $1.4 million, generating an unheard of prospect to expand laterally and increase their total living area to all over 7,000 square ft.

Their idea was to merge the two residences into a cohesive total, with light, open spaces for entertaining. But they realized it would not be uncomplicated.

The household upcoming doorway was a little bit more mature, and neither of the avenue-experiencing facades could be altered, many thanks to strict preservation procedures. Also, the more house that came with it — a little much more than 2,100 sq. toes — was on flooring that didn’t align with people in the couple’s present-day household.

“The properties are far more than a century old,” mentioned V.W. Fowlkes, a principal at Fowlkes Studio, the architecture organization the pair employed. “And the joists buried inside of the flooring plates are historically shielded. We had to do some negotiating with the city about how to be part of the households, and be even handed about how the buildings were being heading to be altered.”

Nevertheless, he stated, “We ended up particularly thrilled by the style and design challenge.”

A single obstacle that immediately introduced itself was a brick wall dividing the two residences, which couldn’t be removed. So the architects preserved it less than drywall and applied it to anchor a contemporary glass-and-metal staircase with white-oak treads, illuminated by 4 skylights overhead.

“We required to have a monumental, gentle-drenched stair that could join the a few concentrations,” Mr. Fowlkes reported.

A challenging engineering feat, it is one of the most putting functions of the style — and a single of the most highly-priced. The staircase demanded “a whole lot of man hours and redesign,” reported Mr. Etienne-Cummings, 54, a professor at the Johns Hopkins Whiting College of Engineering, who explained the six-figure charge as “the most significant solitary selling price-shock of the make.”

Encompassing the staircase are open, only furnished spaces decorated in soothing neutrals — a serene, cocoon-like natural environment that Ms. Etienne-Cummings explained as “almost minimalist with no currently being also significant.”

With just a handful of key items, like a modern day couch upholstered in wool and a conceal rug, the residing home is rather spare. A fire adorned with handmade zellige tile and finished in Venetian plaster serves as a focal position.

“It’s modern-day, but practical,” Ms. Etienne-Cummings explained of the room.

The dining room is pared down as perfectly, with a personalized-created table that has a are living-edge walnut top and bronze legs in a pewter finish. A delicate light fixture of black metallic arcs with brass heads dangles higher than.

To produce a proper entry, which the couple’s initial property lacked simply because of its slim footprint, the architects erected a wall separating the entrance from the residing room. Painted a deep gray and illuminated by a halo-like chandelier, it is the only dim house in the household.

“We wanted to have a small much more ceremony affiliated with the entry,” Mr. Fowlkes stated. “The entry expertise is moody, until eventually you turn the corner and the dwelling variety of explodes.”

The back of the residence — where by the kitchen area and an elevated mudroom are — allowed for more versatility in design and style, like an addition on 1 aspect, to develop a feeling of symmetry, and the set up of extra home windows.

The kitchen area, which now has bleached-walnut cabinets with bronze components and a 12-foot-extensive waterfall island clad in Caesarstone, “has seriously become the focal stage all-around which our household engages,” Ms. Etienne-Cummings reported. “Ralph is the chef, and on most Sundays he’ll cook, and we sit around and communicate.”

In a minimal feat of engineering, the architects suspended a 500-pound vary hood sheathed in quartz from the ceiling, finish with a tailor made steel armature to assistance the stone panels. “That selection hood will continue to be there endlessly,” Mr. Fowlkes stated.

All in, the renovation charge about $2.2 million, but as considerably as Mr. Etienne-Cummings is worried, it was worth it. “There’s a great deal of hustle and bustle in our lives,” he reported. “It’s nice to occur into a house and sense like every little thing is effortless and matches like a glove.”

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Plan revealed for a 735ft-high Moon resort in Las Vegas with 4,000 hotel rooms


Is a large moon set to touch down in Las Vegas? Apparently, there’s a single in the pipeline.

Renderings have been introduced of an eye-opening Las Vegas resort that will take the sort of a large moon. Its name? ‘Moon’, normally.   

In accordance to the Canadian business owners guiding it, it would value £3.6billion ($5billion) to make and, with a peak of 224 metres (735ft), would turn out to be the joint-second-tallest building in Sin Town with the JW Marriott, which is at present the second-loftiest structure at the rear of the 350m- (1,149ft) tall Strat Observation Tower.

Renderings have been released of an eye-opening Las Vegas vacation resort that will take the type of a large moon

The celestial retreat – which would be the world’s premier sphere – functions 4,000 resort rooms, a ‘crater café’, a spa, a on line casino, a lagoon and company in search of a house-age experience will be equipped to take a moon shuttle to a ‘lunar colony’.

You can find additional.

Other points of interest at the otherworldly vacation resort would include things like an function centre for up to 5,000 attendees, a theatre for resident performers and touring acts, a piano bar, boutiques, a number of lounges and a conference centre.

The resort would also attribute a nightclub that would sit beneath a huge design spaceship, with lights beaming down to the dancefloor.

A glass-bottomed ‘Enviromax’ walkway is pencilled in to present simulated sights of the earth’s climate styles, allowing attendees to see ‘the eye of the hurricane from within the eye’.

The celestial retreat – which would be the world's largest sphere - features 4,000 hotel rooms

The celestial retreat – which would be the world’s premier sphere – options 4,000 lodge rooms

Designed to replicate the surface area of the moon, the ‘active lunar colony’ is the exceptional offering stage for the ambitious vacation resort.

To entry the colony, which would be in the higher half of the sphere, visitors would head to shuttle stations, to waiting around moon shuttles. Created like autos on a roller coaster journey, the shuttles, it can be stated, will snake all-around the exterior of the resort suites as they ferry guests upwards.

The moment there, attendees will invest 90 minutes discovering the 10-acre (4-hectare) space, whizzing around craters in a ‘moon buggy’. The colony claims to ‘precisely mimic these [lunar colonies] now beneath serious energetic organizing by Nasa, ESA and many others’. Tickets would value £361 ($500) a pop.

‘Without concern, when attendees undertaking on to the lunar surface area, for the initial time in their life, they will imagine they are on the Moon,’ explains Michael Henderson, who established Moon Environment Resorts (MWR) with his business husband or wife Sandra Matthews.

Plan revealed for a 735ft-high Moon resort in Las Vegas with 4,000 hotel rooms

In accordance to the Canadian business owners powering ‘Moon’, it would charge £3.6billion ($5billion) to create and, with a top of 224 metres (735ft), would become the joint-tallest developing in Sin Metropolis. Pictured here is the ‘tranquility spa’

Plan revealed for a 735ft-high Moon resort in Las Vegas with 4,000 hotel rooms

The Piano Bar strategy for ‘Moon’, a challenge dreamt up in the 12 months 2000

The ‘lunar colony’ expertise was intrinsic to the all round style and design. MWR’s model statement says: ‘The burgeoning room tourism marketplace is virtually blasting off. Nevertheless, the price tag of entry is prohibitive!

‘Moon delivers the essential “bridge” enabling a mass audience to actively and affordably take part in the exhilaration.’

Henderson and Matthews to start with made a decision to conceptualise a location resort back in 2000.

How did they arrive up with the strategy? ‘In quick, it was really a classic “aha second”, drastically assisted by a total moon and a splash or two of Guinness,’ suggests Henderson.

He provides: ‘The goal was to develop an reliable, mega-scale reproduction of planet Earth’s Moon, incorporating the world’s largest sphere.’

The sphere diameter would be 198 meters (650ft), and would rest on a significant disc 259 metres (850ft) in diameter. Nevertheless, these measurements may vary dependent on regional airspace and domestically mandated top restrictions.

Designed from concrete, steel, glass, aluminium and carbon fibre composite, it is approximated the resort would acquire five several years to build.

‘Guests at Moon will take pleasure in a spectacular very first-hand contact and truly feel preview of exactly what daily life will be like for humans’ future habitable celestial body,’ Henderson states.

Moon isn’t really in production yet, but Henderson and Matthews intention to work with important worldwide firms that previously have all the funding essential to absolutely create the resort.

Moon Planet Resorts would license the layout in 4 spots – North The us, Europe, the Center East Gulf and Asia.

The 'active lunar colony' is the unique selling point for Moon. To access the colony, which would be in the upper half of the sphere, guests would head to shuttle stations, to waiting moon shuttles (pictured)

The ‘active lunar colony’ is the unique promoting point for Moon. To obtain the colony, which would be in the upper 50 percent of the sphere, company would head to shuttle stations, to waiting around moon shuttles (pictured)

The plan is for guests to have access to a lunar colony feature for 90 minutes. 'Without question, when guests venture onto the lunar surface, for the first time in their lives, they will believe they are on the Moon,' explains Michael Henderson, who co-founded Moon World Resorts

The plan is for attendees to have entry to a lunar colony feature for 90 minutes. ‘Without concern, when visitors enterprise on to the lunar surface area, for the initially time in their life, they will feel they are on the Moon,’ describes Michael Henderson, who co-started Moon Earth Resorts 

Plan revealed for a 735ft-high Moon resort in Las Vegas with 4,000 hotel rooms

The project was initially earmarked for Coachella, back in 2016

Henderson states MWR is in ‘active conversations with likely regional licensees in a variety of worldwide locations’.

Where’s the very best site for Moon in Las Vegas? ‘Currently, the ideal land choice is owned by the very acclaimed Wynn Resorts Company,’ Henderson describes.

Yet another rendering of the breathtaking vacation resort shows Moon in Dubai on the site of the Burj Khalifa skyscraper. The founders estimate just about every resort could create £1.3billion ($1.8billion) yearly as soon as opened.

On the lookout to the potential, Henderson states: ‘Some 20 years following the to start with initial pencil scribbles began to produce, Moon is finally prepared to split floor.’ 

If which is genuinely the situation, then it can be just one giant leap for tourism in Las Vegas. 

Even so, some in the tourism sector have voiced scepticism about ‘Moon’.

The challenge was originally earmarked for Coachella, California, back again in 2016, as documented in the Desert Sun.

At the time Aftab Dada, the Hilton Palm Springs basic supervisor, instructed the paper that Moon Earth Resort is ‘impossible’, including ‘if there was a phrase to supersede not possible, I might use that’.    

David Garcia, in the meantime, the then Coachella town manager, told Vice.com that it was ‘hard to express any opinion about a task that exists only as inadequately rendered graphic designs’. And Bob Rogers, founder of BRC Imagination Arts, which patterns attractions for businesses and museums, instructed the web site that he considered Moon was extremely formidable in scale.

And as for the Vegas iteration of Moon, Henderson even now has his do the job cut out to convert feeling about.

Author, podcaster and Vegas expert Michael Trager, who runs travel web site TravelZork, told MailOnline Journey that he does not think you will find a current market for Moon.

He stated: ‘When an individual mentions the moon, I straight away assume of 1 of the legends of Las Vegas, Bob Stupak. Other than Stupak’s vision of the moon was exhibiting his lunar stones at the Moon Rock Cafe. Do people today yearn for a moon-themed on line casino resort in Las Vegas? My brief solution is no. They want built-in sporting activities and amusement venues like Stadium Swim at Circa and epic headliners like the line-up of performers at Resorts Entire world Las Vegas.’

So is it all pie in the sky? Watch this room…



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Should you still buy an iPhone 11? Apple’s older iPhone may be the best budget-friendly option


The iPhone 11 may still be the Apple smartphone for you, even though the iPhone 13 is here.


Andrew Hoyle/CNET

Apple’s iPhone 11 is two years old and now that the iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 Pro have arrived, is it still a good idea to buy the older iPhone? It’s a fair question to consider, especially since the iPhone 11, which launched at $799, has since been discounted to $499 on Apple’s website. Beyond price and your personal budget, the decision could depend on what features you need in a smartphone. You may even consider buying an iPhone 12 or an iPhone SE instead.

For instance, do you mind using an iPhone that feels a bit dated? Or do you think saving several hundred dollars is more important than carrying the latest smartphone? What about 5G — how important is that to you? If you’re shopping on a budget, the iPhone 11 is still a great choice. Although you’ll be missing out on some newer features, the iPhone 11 gives you all the basics you’d want from an iPhone, including battery life that’s on par with the iPhone 12, a great dual-lens camera that includes night mode and a processor that’s still fast enough for everyday tasks.  

Read more: Here’s how the iPhone 11 compares to the iPhone 12 and how iPhone 13 compare to iPhone 12.

But if you have some wiggle room in your budget, here are some questions to ask yourself. (For the purposes of this article, I’m going to assume that you are currently using an iPhone.) And if you’re still mulling over your decision after that, here’s how iPhone 13 compares to the last five years of iPhones and here’s our list of the best iPhones. Plus, all the differences between the iPhone 11, 11 Pro and 11 Pro Max.

5G connectivity: iPhone 11 doesn’t have 5G. But do you really need it right now?

One of the iPhone 11’s biggest missing features compared to the iPhone 13 and iPhone 12 is 5G connectivity. The iPhone 11 is an LTE-only device, and if you don’t care for the next-gen wireless tech just yet (service is patchy in the US after all), then the iPhone 11 should suit you just fine. Remember that 5G debuted on the iPhone 12 lineup and getting access to faster bands of 5G depends on where you live, so going for the iPhone 12 makes your purchase more future-proof

iphone-11-iphone-12-pro-max-product-promo-hoyle-2021

Andrew Hoyle/CNET

Display quality: You won’t get a 120Hz refresh rate on an iPhone 11 (or iPhone 12)

The iPhone 11 uses a crisp LCD screen that refreshes at 60 frames per second, or 60Hz. Apple traded up in the iPhone 12, equipping it with an OLED screen, though it kept the display at 60Hz just like most phones. OLEDs are typically more vibrant than their LCD counterparts, with richer contrast and inkier blacks. If you watch a lot of videos on your iPhone and want a superior viewing experience, an OLED screen might make more sense for you. The iPhone 13 also boasts an OLED panel too, though Apple bumped up the refresh rate for the Pro models to 120Hz. The faster refresh rate will translate to smoother, snappier scrolling through apps and websites. 

apple-wallet-license-ios-15

Apple’s Wallet app will be able to store driver’s licenses in iOS 15. 


Screenshot by CNET

Software support: How long will the iPhone 11 get iOS software updates? 

Apple’s latest operating system, iOS 15, is supported on many older iPhones, and the oldest is the 2015 iPhone 6S (Here’s how to download the new OS, but you may want to wait.) Based on that and some quick mental math, we can deduce that Apple plans to provide iPhone support for up to six years from launch. As a result, with the iPhone 11, unveiled in 2019, you can rest comfortably knowing that you can expect updates through 2025. 

Read more: iOS 15’s biggest new features: FaceTime, Apple Wallet and Notifications get new tricks

Durability and water resistance: How durable do you want your iPhone to be?

If you do opt for the iPhone 11, you will miss out on a few durability features that are available on the newer iPhone models. One of the iPhone 12’s big improvements is the material of its display. Apple calls it “ceramic shield” glass. Made by Corning, the ceramic shield glass covering the phone’s display is apparently harder than most metals. Indeed, we can confirm that the iPhone 12’s ceramic shield is tough. Our iPhone 12 drop tests show it protected the hardware from drops as high as 9 feet. (CNET’s iPhone 12 Mini drop tests yielded similar results.) The iPhone 13 also has the same ceramic shield glass on its display.

So if you’re a big klutz and are prone to slips and drops, springing for the iPhone 13 or iPhone 12 is a wise move (or just get a really nice iPhone case). Keep in mind, the iPhone 11 isn’t a delicate darling, either. It also survived CNET’s drop and water tests and earned a CNET Editors’ Choice Award. You can read our iPhone 11 review for more details. 

Read more: Farewell iPhone case: The case for the caseless phone

Price and budget: How much do you want to spend on an iPhone?

As I said earlier, Apple is selling the nearly two-year-old iPhone 11 for $300 less now than when it was first launched, making it a great choice for those shopping on a budget. The iPhone 11 is also just $100 more than the current iPhone SE and offers more features like a larger screen, longer battery life and a dual-camera with wide and ultra-wide lenses. If it fits your budget, the iPhone 11 may be your best option for an affordable iPhone. 

But, if you want the latest from Apple, phone carriers like Verizon, T-Mobile and AT&T offer the iPhone 13 Pro, standard 13 or 13 Mini for $0 with a trade-in. Just keep in mind that there are plenty of caveats to those deals. 



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Pictured: The incredible ‘Domino Tower’ island that will be built off the coast of Zanzibar


Behold Zanzibar Domino – a spectacular island vacation resort skyscraper that appears to be like, as the identify indicates, like a giant match of dominoes.

It was, in fact, impressed by the preferred tile-primarily based video game.

Jean-Paul Cassia, the founder and design and style director of the New York and Dubai-dependent architecture business powering the style and design, xCassia, reported that the tower was 1st sketched in Paris in 2009 ‘after my late father, two sons and I performed a round of dominoes’.

The Zanzibar Domino Tower will be built on a man-manufactured island connected by a bridge to the west coast of Zanzibar. It will home lodge and household models that have impressive outer terraces oriented south-southwest for ‘stunning views of Stone Town, the shoreline and ethereal Zanzibar sunsets’

Facilities at Zanzibar Domino will include a marina, golf course, a six-star hotel and an observation deck

Facilities at Zanzibar Domino will contain a marina, golfing training course, a six-star resort and an observation deck

He included: ‘I dreamed of creating this task for over a ten years. Among its innate mathematical purchase and geometries located in character, its pure strains and proportions that evoke growth, progress and flexibility, it experienced all the bearings of an icon any one could keep in mind and attract on a paper napkin.’

The tower will be designed on a 370,000 m sq (3,982,646 sq ft) guy-built island linked by a bridge to the west coast of Zanzibar, 15 minutes from the Unesco Planet Heritage web-site of Stone Town – and within the location sophisticated will be a dazzling array of capabilities and facilities.

In the reduce element of the growth, disclosed xCassia, will be a marina, an aquarium, an exhibition and cultural pavilion and an international conferencing facility for up to 1,000 delegates.

On the outer spiral will be a blend of retail and foodstuff and drinks outlets, a yacht club and rooftop infinity pool, and a cinema.

On a section of the intricate called the Zanzibar Domino Island Resort and privately accessed possibly by helicopter, boat or bridge will be 104 ‘exclusive’ more than-drinking water villas with dedicated concierge kiosks, 4 helipads and berth arrival docks linking the residences to ‘a lighthouse structure that serves as a visual beacon, transport junction and amenities centre’.

The vacation resort will also boast a golfing class with a clubhouse and a wedding ceremony chapel accessed by an above-water bridge.

The tower, meanwhile, will house residences, spas, a ‘five and six-star hotel’, panoramic lifts and a dedicated observation platform.

What is far more, said xCassia, ‘in a sweeping descent from the top-down, all resort and household units will have impressive outer terraces oriented south-southwest for gorgeous views of Stone Town, the shoreline and ethereal Zanzibar sunsets’.

The undertaking, originally prepared for Hạ Prolonged Bay in Vietnam but switched to Zanzibar previous yr, is backed by the Tanzanian AICL Team and Crowland Administration Ltd.

Jean-Paul Cassia, the founder and design director of the New York and Dubai-based architecture firm behind the Zanzibar Domino design, xCassia , said that the tower was first sketched in Paris in 2009 'after my late father, two sons and I played a round of dominoes'

Jean-Paul Cassia, the founder and style and design director of the New York and Dubai-based architecture organization behind the Zanzibar Domino design and style, xCassia , explained that the tower was to start with sketched in Paris in 2009 ‘after my late father, two sons and I performed a spherical of dominoes’

Zanzibar Domino is being positioned as 'one of Africa's first truly iconic global destinations'. The tower was originally planned for Hạ Long Bay in Vietnam, but switched to Zanzibar last year

Zanzibar Domino is being positioned as ‘one of Africa’s 1st certainly iconic global destinations’. The tower was at first planned for Hạ Very long Bay in Vietnam, but switched to Zanzibar previous calendar year

Youssef S. Amour, Executive Chairman of AICL Group, mentioned: ‘Positioned as just one of Africa’s first really iconic worldwide locations for tourism, enjoyment, society and conferencing, the Zanzibar Domino will offer website visitors, citizens and enterprises a multi-faceted application intended to generate exclusive 12 months-spherical activities, specialist pathways and financial commitment alternatives.

‘We are thrilled to be functioning with Jean-Paul Cassia and his exceptional partners and crew for the growth of this ground-breaking challenge.’

Building of Zanzibar Domino is owing to begin in the up coming 6 months – and its top is remaining retained underneath wraps for now.





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2022 Ford Expedition has a new look, more tech, nicer trimmings


The Timberline trim is a rugged new off-road-focused model for 2022.


Ford

For 2022, the Ford Expedition full-size SUV is on the receiving end of a welcome refresh. Two new trim levels are coming, the automaker’s Blue Cruise hands-free driving aid will be offered, and you can get a massive infotainment screen inside (seriously, it’s huge). These changes, and many more, should help this rugged family-hauler better compete with the popular Chevy Tahoe and brand-new Jeep Wagoneer, serious threats from Ford’s crosstown rivals.

New for ’22

Making their debut Tuesday, two new trims are available for the 2022 Expedition, and they’re at opposite ends of the spectrum. The Expedition Timberline offers more rugged styling and substantially enhanced off-road capability, while the Stealth Performance Package has a blacked-out look and should feel sportier on the street, which, to be honest, is where large SUVs like this spend probably 98% of their time.

The Timberline model is the most off-road capable Expedition Ford’s ever offered from the factory. Naturally, a few visual cues speak to this enhanced performance, though they do not shout. All the optical upgrades here are all tastefully done. Up front, there’s a unique grille along with some spiffy orange accents, just like on the smaller Explorer Timberline. This Expedition gains a wider track and rolls on black 18-inch wheels wrapped in rugged all-terrain tires. Inside, you can get a Deep Cyprus Green cabin, which is offset by trim and stitching rendered in orange. But with the Timberline, the biggest upgrades here aren’t so obvious.

Thanks to an elevated ride height, this Expedition has 10.6 inches of ground clearance, more than a Jeep Wagoneer. This Expedition’s approach and departure angles are improved, there’s a juicy two-speed transfer case, and you can get the F-150 Raptor’s front skid plate, which not only looks cool, but should do a great job shielding delicate powertrain components from damage out on the trail. Other mechanical upgrades include a standard limited-slip rear differential, larger stabilizer bars and unique springs, plus a range of drive modes.

Just like the new Bronco, the Timberline model features Ford’s clever Trail Turn Assist. Basically, in certain situations this system can lock the inside rear wheel to significantly decrease the turning circle, which can be a godsend out on the trail. Not that you will, but thanks to these upgrades, the Expedition Timberline should be able to take you pretty far off the beaten path.

Of course, if you’re only making runs to Costco every other weekend rather than bombing down old logging trails, consider the other new-for-2022 Expedition trim. The street-focused Stealth Performance Package will be available on midrange Limited and extended-length Limited Max models. It offers more athletic looks and a sportier suspension. This Expedition builds on the Stealth Appearance Package that’s been around for a few years, though it’s curious that Ford didn’t just brand this an ST model like its other performance-enhanced models.

Timberline is a new trim for 2022 and it’s the most capable Expedition ever. 


Ford

For a sinister look, this street-focused SUV’s grille, mirror caps, roof rails, running boards, liftgate applique and lamp housings are all blacked out, as are its swanky 22-inch wheels. Even the Ford emblems have received the same treatment. Providing a dash of color, the brake calipers are red.

Fancy Platinum models come standard with a continuously controlled damping suspension with road preview, a setup that should also be optional on the Limited trim and above. Expeditions fitted with the Stealth Performance Package have the adaptive dampers as well with firmer tuning, though how sporty a multi-ton SUV can feel remains to be seen.

High-output performance

Acceleration shouldn’t be an issue, at least. As with the current model, just one powertrain is offered in the 2022 Ford Expedition, though it’s available in two flavors. You get a 3.5-liter EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 that’s, predictably, matched to a 10-speed automatic transmission. In standard tune, this engine belts out 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque, impressive numbers to be sure. But the Timberline trim and examples fitted with the Stealth Performance Package get a high-output variant that’s good for 440 hp and 510 lb.-ft. of twist. That’s more of each than you get in either a Jeep Wagoneer or Chevy Tahoe.

When fitted with the heavy-duty towing package, you can drag up to 9,300 pounds behind the 2022 Expedition. That’s a good bit more than the Chevy, but less than the Jeep can manage.

Saving a few drops of fuel, this SUV can also be had with an active air dam. It deploys at speeds greater than 40 mph and supposedly improves aerodynamics by 4% at highway speeds. On its own, this add-on probably doesn’t make too much of a difference, but every little bit helps.

The new Stealth Performance Package trim is suitably stealthy. 


Ford

Big news inside

There’s plenty of important stuff to highlight inside the refreshed Expedition, even if its cockpit isn’t entirely new. Some small components carry over, but importantly, the dashboard was redesigned. It looks more flowing than before and features higher-quality materials and finer details. With extra pressure from the Wagoneer and Tahoe, Ford had to move the needle and it did.

A jumbo 12-inch landscape-oriented screen is standard equipment, running the automaker’s Sync 4 infotainment system. But as in the Mustang Mach-E all-electric SUV and upcoming F-150 Lightning pickup truck, you can also get a mammoth 15.5-inch portrait-oriented display running Ford’s Sync 4A multimedia array. Either way, both infotainment offerings support wireless smartphone mirroring via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Beyond all that, a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster with Expedition-specific graphics is offered as well.

Making long highway trips less draining, Ford’s Blue Cruise hands-free driving aid will be standard equipment in the top-shelf Platinum model, courtesy of a new electrical system. That is the only trim level this advanced feature will be offered on, at least for now. It sounds like Ford may make Blue Cruise available on other models in the coming years, which would be super smart. Similar to GM’s pioneering Super Cruise system, this setup allows hands-free driving on more than 130,000 miles of approved highways in North America.

Damn, that’s a big screen.


Ford

Every Expedition comes standard with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection. An improved 360-degree camera system is offered and Pro Trailer Backup Assist 2.0 provides a more seamless towing experience than before. Other fancy features include an available 22-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system. This feature should be available on King Ranch, Platinum, Stealth Performance Package and Timberline models. Amazon Fire is now integrated into the rear-seat entertainment system, which includes HD touchscreens with 16 gigabytes of storage.

Available early next year

Unfortunately, pricing and fuel economy information is not available right now, but the redesigned 2022 Ford Expedition is expected to start arriving at dealerships in the first quarter of 2022. Once again, this SUV will be built in Louisville, Kentucky.

The updated Expedition looks better than ever, is more capable and the tech it offers is a huge leap forward. With strong competition from the Tahoe and Wagoneer, Ford had to step up, and it looks like it has.


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2022 Ford Expedition: Some big changes for a big SUV



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Shopping for Canopy Beds – The New York Times


Any mattress can provide a location to slumber, but a cover bed does something far more.

“You can make a place in a area,” reported Sandra Nunnerley, an inside designer in New York. “It’s like a cocoon.”

That is why she mounted a tailor made cover bed in her New York apartment and regularly specifies them for clients’ residences, as perfectly. “They’re heavenly to rest under,” she claimed.

There are many approaches of receiving a canopy outcome. One is to buy a mattress with a canopy framework another is to do what Ms. Nunnerley did in her residence: Mount a material canopy on the ceiling that suspends curtains at the corners of the bed.

Both way, a cover can offer an further touch of convenience heading into drop.

“We’ve finished quite a few of them around the many years,” Ms. Nunnerley mentioned. “And I have never met any person who does not like to slumber in one.”

Teak platform cover mattress by Mash Studios

From $4,840 at Horne: 877-404-6763 or shophorne.com




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Canada holidays: We reveal ten examples of the country’s city chic


Epic road trips across vast prairies, luxury rail journeys through mountain ranges and a fabulous choice of ski resorts – these are the obvious holiday options when heading to Canada. But travellers risk missing the country’s most exciting places – its cities. 

They are scattered across a vast expanse: the city of St John’s on the east coast is actually closer to London than Vancouver on Canada’s distant west coast. But each of the ten cities described here is packed with art, excitement and history and worth a visit in its own right. And every one gives you a chance to discover the heart of Canada.

At noon on summer days in St John’s, in the Newfoundland and Labrador province, you can hear the boom of the three-pounder gun ceremonially fired next to Cabot Tower. It’s a reminder of North America’s last battle of the Seven Years’ War, which took place at Signal Hill in 1762.

Colourful houses built on the rocky slope of Signal Hill in St. John’s in the Newfoundland and Labrador province

Reminiscent of a castle keep, the landmark overlooks the Narrows – the rocky, gate-like entrance to St John’s Harbour – and on to the North Atlantic. 

From late spring into summer, the hilltop is a brilliant vantage point for watching mountainous chunks of ice drift southwards on the stretch of ocean known as Iceberg Alley.

Walking trails drop towards Quidi Vidi, the fishing village where the Quidi Vidi Brewery uses water from icebergs to brew lager sold in cobalt blue bottles. Stop by the waterfront taproom on Fridays for some foot-stomping live music.

Quidi Vidi in Newfoundland, where holidaymakers immerse themselves in 'foot-stomping live music' at the waterfront taproom

Quidi Vidi in Newfoundland, where holidaymakers immerse themselves in ‘foot-stomping live music’ at the waterfront taproom

Eat: Expect hearty portions at the cosy Mallard Cottage restaurant in the heart of the village (mallardcottage.ca).

Stay: Double rooms at Jag Boutique Hotel cost from £74 a night (steelehotels.com).

History-lovers should head to Halifax in Nova Scotia to visit its extraordinary star-shaped fortress, Citadel Hill. It is one of five historic Halifax Defence Complex fortifications, and the ramparts offer outstanding views over the seaside city whose deep harbour was strategically important during the days of the British Empire. Today, you’ll spot a cruise ship or two.

Do explore the waterfront Maritime Museum Of The Atlantic where you’ll learn about the accidental collision between munition ships on December 6, 1917 which wrought more damage on Nova Scotia’s provincial capital than any enemy action. Known as the Halifax Explosion, it is rated as the pre-nuclear age’s most powerful man-made blast.

Canada holidays: We reveal ten examples of the country's city chic

Stuart Forster recommends visiting the ‘extraordinary star-shaped fortress’ of Citadel Hill during a trip to Halifax

Exhibits also examine the city’s role following the Titanic disaster of 1912 and you can pay your respects at the Baron de Hirsch and Fairview Lawn cemeteries where more than 100 victims are buried.

Eat: Tuck into outstanding seafood in Five Fishermen Restaurant, infamous for its role as a temporary mortuary after the Titanic sank (fivefishermen.com).

Stay: Double rooms at the soon-to-open Muir Halifax hotel cost from £220 a night (muirhotel.com).

The province of Prince Edward Island, or PEI, is the setting for Lucy Maud Montgomery’s classic novel, Anne Of Green Gables, which was first published in 1908. See where the author found inspiration for one of Canada’s most-loved fictional characters at Green Gables Heritage Place, near Cavendish, where a restored farmhouse with shuttered windows has interiors like those in the books. The visitor centre also tells the author’s life story.

Prince Edward Island is the setting for the 1908 novel Anne Of Green Gables. The province now houses a museum dedicated to the classic book (above)

Prince Edward Island is the setting for the 1908 novel Anne Of Green Gables. The province now houses a museum dedicated to the classic book (above) 

There’s also The Anne Of Green Gables Museum near Park Corner and Montgomery’s birthplace at New London.

PEI’s provincial capital, Charlottetown, is regarded as the birthplace of modern Canada. The Confederation Centre Of The Arts introduces the story of the Charlottetown Conference of 1864, where Canada’s federal structure was initially discussed.

Eat: Join locals feasting on platters of shellfish at the Claddagh Oyster House (claddaghoysterhouse.com).

Stay: Double rooms at the Sydney Boutique Inn in Charlottetown cost from £85 a night (sydneyinn.com).

Prince Edward Island's provincial capital, Charlottetown , is regarded as the birthplace of modern Canada

Prince Edward Island’s provincial capital, Charlottetown , is regarded as the birthplace of modern Canada

The gorgeous town of St Andrews by-the-Sea in New Brunswick has charming pastel-fronted shops on Water Street. From the harbour, whale-watching tours sail into the Bay of Fundy, with humpbacks among the species that visit during summer.

The USA lies across the St Croix River and St Andrews Blockhouse on the waterfront was built for protection during the War of 1812.

Kingsbrae Garden is today one of the treasures that attracts visitors from across the border. Spread across 27 acres, it features a maze, sculptures and is a pretty spot for an al fresco lunch. Cross to Ministers Island during low tide to visit the sprawling summer estate of Sir William van Horne, who oversaw the construction of Canada’s first transcontinental railway.

Stuart describes the town of St Andrews by-the-Sea in New Brunswick, pictured above, as 'gorgeous'

Stuart describes the town of St Andrews by-the-Sea in New Brunswick, pictured above, as ‘gorgeous’ 

Eat: Pre-shelled ‘naked’ lobster is one of the beautifully presented dishes at the Rossmount Inn (rossmountinn.com).

Stay: Double rooms at Algonquin Resort cost from £139 a night (marriott.com/hotels).

The Montreal Museum Of Fine Arts in Quebec has the most gallery space in the country. Spot the Dali and Miro works among Canadian works, including Inuit art. For more contemporary art, head to the stylishly refurbished industrial premises that house the Bradley Ertaskiran gallery.

Walking tours of Quebec (pictured) – and easy-paced ones at that – help give a brilliant insight into the city

Walking tours of Quebec (pictured) – and easy-paced ones at that – help give a brilliant insight into the city

The Montreal Museum Of Fine Arts in Quebec, which has the most gallery space in all of Canada

The Montreal Museum Of Fine Arts in Quebec, which has the most gallery space in all of Canada 

As ever, walking tours – and easy-paced ones at that – help give a brilliant insight into the city. Try Spade & Palacio tours and you’ll be taken past street art while visiting a selection of the city’s top gastro spots.

Eat: Chips and gravy are elevated to a different level in poutine, a traditional dish which is topped with cheese curds and foie gras, served at Au Pied de Cochon (aupieddecochon.ca/en).

Stay: Double rooms at Le Germain Montreal cost from £168 a night (germainhotels.com).

Take a lift to the CN Tower observation decks to view the layout of Toronto – Canada’s most populated city. If you’re a thrill seeker, book the tower’s EdgeWalk – it puts a different perspective on the phrase ‘hanging out downtown’.

Vibrant: The CN Tower in Toronto, where tourists can take a lift to the observation decks to view the layout of the city

Vibrant: The CN Tower in Toronto, where tourists can take a lift to the observation decks to view the layout of the city

Stuart recommends watching a Blue Jays baseball game at the Rogers Centre, pictured above, for a 'thoroughly Torontonian experience'

Stuart recommends watching a Blue Jays baseball game at the Rogers Centre, pictured above, for a ‘thoroughly Torontonian experience’

Or if you’re into sport, the city has a number of pro teams, but for a thoroughly Torontonian experience head to the Rogers Centre to watch a Blue Jays baseball game. It’s as much about chomping a foot-long sub with all the toppings and sinking cold beer as the on-field action. At Hanlan’s Point on Toronto Islands you can find a board that commemorates the place where baseball legend ‘Babe’ Ruth hit his first home run as a professional.

Eat: Relax with beer and smokehouse-style food by the waterfront at Amsterdam Brewhouse (amsterdambeer.com).

Stay: Double rooms at the Fairmont Royal York cost from £211 a night (fairmont.com).

The Manitoba Legislative Building is one of grandest landmarks in Winnipeg.

Frank Albo’s engrossing Hermetic Code Tours tell the story of its architect, Frank Worthington Simon, and of symbolism relating to freemasonry that is hidden in plain sight. Albo asserts that measurements and underlying meanings indicate Simon made efforts to faithfully recreate the Temple of Solomon.

The Manitoba Legislative Building is one of the 'grandest landmarks in Winnipeg', according to Stuart

The Manitoba Legislative Building is one of the ‘grandest landmarks in Winnipeg’, according to Stuart 

Unwind at Thermea By Nordik Spa-Nature. The heated outdoor pools and relaxation areas are perfect for recovering after the intense warmth of a ritual ‘aufguss’ infusion in the Finnish sauna.

Eat: Head to the Exchange District for the refined tasting menu at Deer + Almond (deerandalmond.com).

Stay: Double rooms at Inn At The Forks cost from £96 a night (innforks.com).

If you appreciate art, the Remai Modern is a reason to stop by the prairie city of Saskatoon in Saskatchewan province – it displays the world’s largest collection of linocuts by Pablo Picasso and paintings by Lawren Harris of Canada’s influential Group Of Seven.

Enjoy a cruise down the South Saskatchewan River during a trip to the prairie city of Saskatoon, pictured above

Enjoy a cruise down the South Saskatchewan River during a trip to the prairie city of Saskatoon, pictured above

View the angular building from the South Saskatchewan River during a cruise aboard The Prairie Lily. Combine sightseeing with a delicious Sunday brunch in the vessel decked to resemble one of the vintage steamboats from the 1880s.

Eat: Share a charcuterie board then sip cocktails at Ayden Kitchen & Bar (aydenkitchenandbar.com).

Stay: Double rooms at The James Hotel cost from £136 a night (thejameshotel.ca).

Studio Bell, pictured above, is the home of Canada’s National Music Centre and houses the Canadian Music Hall Of Fame

Studio Bell, pictured above, is the home of Canada’s National Music Centre and houses the Canadian Music Hall Of Fame

Studio Bell is the home of Canada’s National Music Centre. Based in Calgary, Alberta, it houses the Canadian Music Hall Of Fame plus the national songwriters and country music equivalents. Among exhibits displayed over five floors are the white piano used by Elton John while composing his first five albums and the Rolling Stones’ mobile recording studio.

Head across the Elbow River into the Inglewood district to kick back with an evening of live music at The Blues Can. The long-established venue hosts gigs seven nights a week, while the surrounding streets are home to craft breweries.

Eat: Order plates of Japanese dishes made with west coast seafood and Albertan ingredients at Shokunin (shokuninyyc.ca).

Stay: B&B doubles with parking at the Hotel Arts Kensington cost from £125 a night (hotelartskensington.com).

With totem poles and fine views of Vancouver’s skyline, it’s easy to spend a day in Stanley Park. The city in British Columbia is bicycle-friendly and you’ll find a handful of rental shops on streets close to the park. Or you could always opt for a romantic moment on Lovers’ Walk before a sundowner at the park’s elegant teahouse.

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Vancouver, pictured above, has a lot to offer, from strolls on Lovers’ Walk to picnics on Jericho Beach

While on two wheels, head to Kitsilano Beach for a dip in the heated outdoor pool, then continue on to Jericho Beach for a picnic and views on to Burrard Inlet.

Eat: Visit Granville Island for the seafood platters at The Sandbar (vancouverdine.com/sandbar).

Stay: Double rooms at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver cost from £128 a night (fairmont.com/hotel-vancouver). 



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