Travel
Unique Experiences at the CitizenM
CitizenM is a hotel chain that offers affordable luxury for modern travelers and aims to eliminate their shared frustrations.
Recently, a good friend and frequent contributor to the STM Daily News, Josh, went on a winter adventure to Seattle with his wife Tori. He was posting Facebook updates during his journey, he even took the time to instant message me with some of the details.
Then, I received a picture sent through messenger from Josh, it was of him holding an iPad. He was showing me and other friends how he controlled the color of the various lighting elements around the room and the window blinds. In the room, he was recognized as Citizen Joshua. This was definitely a unique hotel experience for him. But, what is this place?
The answer is CitizenM, a hotel chain that, according to the website, considers itself a hotel hybrid that offers affordable luxury “for today’s modern travelers – eliminating their shared frustrations.”
Located mostly in central city locations, “CitizenM caters to travelers who values a luxury hotel experience, but at an affordable price.”
What does CitizenM mean by hotel hybrid?
The hotel chain considers itself a hybrid because it isn’t just a place to sleep, but somewhere to work, relax, and play. CitizenM wants to convey the modern feel at home experience the moment you walk through the door. “Somewhere with free Wi-Fi, comfortable furniture, and a great bed to crash in at the end of a long day.”
Based in the Netherlands, CitizenM opened its first hotel at Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport in 2008, and now operates over 20 hotels across North America, Europe, and Asia, with 18 more in development.
Josh stayed at citizenM’s South Lake Union location in Seattle.
“It was certainly not a concept I’m used to considering we are usually toting around three small people,” Josh said. “However I’m glad I chose CitizenM for me and Tori. In the downtown Seattle area the price was definitely right, and so convenient to get to from the airport. Also very convenient to get to King Street Station in the morning.”
At first glance, Josh thought that the bed seemed like it might be uncomfortable, but by the end of the visit both he and Tori both found it to be probably one of the most comfortable they’ve experienced in a hotel. “Easily up there with what we find in the various Hyatts we stay at,” Josh said.
“Probably the best complement considering their technology dependent model is that all of the technology worked perfectly from the get go, and was fun and easy to use. That’s not a simple task!”
Thanks to Josh and his experience, citizenM is is now on my radar when I plan trips in the future.
Footnote: CitizenM is offering 50% off museums in Seattle (all of them!) when booking throughout February. You’ll receive a Seattle Museum Month pass during your stay – show it at any museum in the city to get your discount! https://visitseattle.org/press/press-releases/seattle-museum-month-2023/
Source: CitizenM and Joshua Willingham
CitizenM Link: https://www.citizenm.com/hotels/united-states/seattle/seattle-south-lake-union-hotel
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Foodie News
Coastal Mississippi’s Exciting Evolution: New Restaurants, Attractions, and Experiences for 2025!
Hey there, fellow adventurers! Get ready to pack your bags because Coastal Mississippi is about to unleash a vibrant array of new restaurants, attractions, and developments that are set to redefine your beach getaway. With the promise of over ten fabulous new destinations sprouting up along the picturesque coast, and the thrilling news of recent James Beard nominations for local chefs, 2025 is shaping up to be a banner year for this beloved region.
A Culinary Adventure Awaits
First and foremost, let’s talk about the culinary scene. Coastal Mississippi is well-known for its delectable dishes, and this year, it’s raising the bar even higher. Local chefs Austin and Tresse Sumrall from White Pillars in Biloxi have earned a nomination for Best Chef: South, making waves with their farm-to-table créative cuisine. If that’s not enough, Vestige in downtown Ocean Springs, run by Chefs Alex Perry and Kumi Omori, is nominated for Outstanding Hospitality—another testament to the top-notch dining experiences around here.
Discover New Dining Gems
Prepare your taste buds for the exciting new eateries making their debut across Coastal Mississippi:
- Barracuda Taco Stand in Bay St. Louis offers irresistible tacos served with fresh tortillas and a margarita garden ideal for al fresco dining.
- The District Coffee Company in Pascagoula has quickly become a local favorite, combining great brews with a charming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
- At The Garage at Cash Alley, located in downtown Ocean Springs, you’ll find an energetic throwback vibe, serving up delightful street eats like loaded nachos and scrumptious desserts.
- For a cozy evening, head over to Oak & Vine for exquisite whiskey and wine pairings in a friendly local setting.
And for those who fancy a little something different, Catch 110 boasts a coast-inspired menu complete with a stunning patio perfect for sipping cocktails while enjoying the picturesque views. Not to mention the modern cocktail lounge, Magnolia Room, serving unforgettable tapas alongside classic drinks, making it a must-visit!
Fun for Everyone
Coastal Mississippi isn’t just about indulgent dining—it’s also creating spaces for everyone to enjoy. The Inclusion Playground at Town Commons in Gautier is a groundbreaking 10,800 sq. ft. playground designed for children of all abilities, ensuring every family can find joy together.
Are you feeling sporty? The Picklr, an indoor pickleball facility in Biloxi, is a great new spot for both seasoned players and novices to sharpen their skills while bonding with fellow enthusiasts.
Accommodations with a Twist
After a day of adventure, where will you rest? Enter The Hotel Vela, a boutique hotel created by our James Beard-nominated chefs, which offers not just a place to stay but an experience filled with culinary delights and luxurious comfort. Pair your stay with evenings at the onsite Siren Social Club, known for its unique menu of European flavors.
Embrace the Outdoors
Don’t miss the picturesque Harrison County Sand Beach, newly equipped with accessible Mobi-mats, allowing everyone to truly enjoy our stunning beaches. Plus, the beloved Depot District in Bay St. Louis continues to charm visitors with its relaxed atmosphere, now featuring a new Back Yard Beer Garden.
Convenient Connections
Travelers rejoice! Coastal Mississippi has recently partnered with Breeze Airways to offer affordable nonstop flights from Gulfport-Biloxi to Orlando. This service opens the doors to not only connecting new travelers to our vibrant coast but also sets the stage for even more adventures!
The Future Looks Bright
As Judy Young, CEO of Coastal Mississippi Tourism, beautifully puts it, “We’re excited to kickoff 2025 with an exciting array of fun and delicious new offerings.” Whether you are a foodie, outdoor enthusiast, or simply seeking relaxation, Coastal Mississippi is shaping up to be a destination that truly has it all.
So, what are you waiting for? Mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and start planning your trip to Coastal Mississippi for an unforgettable experience in 2025. For more information on all the new developments and unique experiences awaiting you along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, visit CoastalMississippi.com.
Here’s to new adventures, tasty bites, and sun-soaked memories along the breathtaking coast! 
About Coastal Mississippi: Coastal Mississippi is the organization charged with promoting South Mississippi as a tourism and convention destination worldwide. Its mission centers on attracting ever-increasing numbers of leisure, convention, sports, and business visitors to the area. It is dedicated to maximizing the travel and tourism industry for South Mississippi. Visit CoastalMississippi.com to learn more.
Source: Coastal Mississippi
At our core, we at STM Daily News, strive to keep you informed and inspired with the freshest content on all things food and beverage. From mouthwatering recipes to intriguing articles, we’re here to satisfy your appetite for culinary knowledge.
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astronomy
A Celestial Spectacle: Witness the Rare Planetary Parade on February 28
On February 28, 2025, a rare planetary parade will showcase all seven planets aligning in the night sky. This remarkable event won’t occur again until 2040, making it unmissable.
Planetary Parade
Astronomy enthusiasts and casual stargazers alike have something extraordinary to look forward to at the end of February. For one brief moment, on the evening of February 28, 2025, all seven planets—Mars, Jupiter, Uranus, Venus, Neptune, Mercury, and Saturn—will align in the night sky, creating a captivating planetary parade. This remarkable event marks the last time such an alignment will be visible until 2040, making it an occasion not to be missed.
What to Expect
The planetary parade will unfold shortly after sunset, with each planet showcasing its brilliance against the backdrop of the evening sky. While most of these celestial bodies will shine brighter than even the brightest stars, Uranus and Neptune will likely require binoculars or a telescope for a better view.
Currently, six of the planets are already aligned, but stargazers will have to wait until February 28 for Mercury to make its debut just above the horizon. Dr. Christopher Barnes, a senior lecturer at the University of Derby, explains the visibility details: “Mars will appear in the east, Jupiter and Uranus in the southeast, and Venus, Neptune, and Saturn in the west.”
Viewing Tips
For those wishing to experience this cosmic event, the best time to observe will be just after sunset when the stars begin to appear. Dr. Barnes suggests that even people in urban areas, where light pollution is often an issue, will be able to see most of the planets. However, seeking a location away from city lights will enhance the viewing experience.
The Benefits of Stargazing
Beyond the thrilling visual spectacle, taking time to gaze upon the stars and planets offers numerous benefits for one’s mental and emotional well-being. Dr. Barnes points out that stargazing encourages mindfulness, allowing individuals to detach from the stresses of daily life. “Engaging with the night sky fosters a sense of peace, restoration, and perspective,” he says.
Future Events
After February 28, the next opportunity to see a planetary alignment of five or more planets will occur in late October 2028 and again in February 2034. However, another seven-planet alignment will not be witnessed for another 15 years, making this February a particularly special occasion.
To cater to those unable to view the parade due to unfavorable weather or light pollution, several observatories will provide live streams of the event. This means everyone can partake in this astral celebration from the comfort of their homes.
As we approach February 28, it’s time to mark your calendars for this rare planetary parade. Whether you grab your telescope, plan a trip to a dark-sky location, or tune in to a live stream, don’t miss your chance to witness this extraordinary alignment of the planets, a spectacle that will be remembered long after it fades from view. Prepare to look up and enjoy the wonders of our solar system!
Resources:
Who doesn’t love a parade, especially a planet parade? How and when to see up to 7 planets
Planetary Parade will soon be visible in the evening sky
The science section of our news blog STM Daily News provides readers with captivating and up-to-date information on the latest scientific discoveries, breakthroughs, and innovations across various fields. We offer engaging and accessible content, ensuring that readers with different levels of scientific knowledge can stay informed. Whether it’s exploring advancements in medicine, astronomy, technology, or environmental sciences, our science section strives to shed light on the intriguing world of scientific exploration and its profound impact on our daily lives. From thought-provoking articles to informative interviews with experts in the field, STM Daily News Science offers a harmonious blend of factual reporting, analysis, and exploration, making it a go-to source for science enthusiasts and curious minds alike. https://stmdailynews.com/category/science/
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Lifestyle
Tripadvisor Reveals 2025’s Must-Visit Destinations: Top Picks From Travelers Around the World
London Takes The Top Spot – Plus, U.S. Favorite Places for Food, Culture, Solo Travel and More
NEEDHAM, Mass. /PRNewswire/ — Tripadvisor®, the world’s largest travel guidance platform, today announced its first Travelers’ Choice® Awards category for 2025: Best of the Best Destinations.
Each year, Tripadvisor pores over millions of reviews shared by a global community of travelers to uncover the most trusted recommendations, helping future explorers create unforgettable memories on their next adventure. Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best Destinations span seven categories; Top Destinations, Trending Destinations, Culture Destinations, Food Destinations, Honeymoon Destinations. This year Tripadvisor introduces two new subcategories; Solo Travel Destinations and a special sub-category in celebration of Tripadvisor’s 25th anniversary honoring the Top Destinations of the Last 25 Years based on all time reviews.
The Travelers’ Choice Awards celebrate destinations with the highest ratings and reviews from global travelers over the past year. The rankings shine a light on the places that have captured the hearts of real travelers who’ve experienced them firsthand.
“Over the last 25 years Tripadvisor has grown to become the world’s leading travel guidance platform, drawing on insights from real travelers all around the world,” commented Kristen Dalton, President, Tripadvisor. “Based on the more than 1 billion reviews and opinions on our site today, Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards reflect the global travel community’s favorites – from destinations themselves, to everything that makes them special including restaurants, hotels and experiences.”
London Takes the Crown Globally, While NYC Rules the U.S.
This year London climbed two places to be named No. 1 Top Destination in the World, taking the title from Dubai, which had proudly held onto first place since 2022. The UK capital is also recognized for its culinary scene as well as rich arts and heritage offering, coming second in the world in the best Food Destinations and third in Culture Destinations. The city was also named No. 1 in Tripadvisor’s special 25th anniversary list, with London recognized as the top destination from the last 25 years of reviews on the site.
Here in the U.S., New York City tops this list, and is also featured in the states’ top Food Destinations. Other fan favorite destinations include warm weather hotspots like O’ahu and the Florida Keys, hustling cities like Chicago and Las Vegas, and culturally rich locations like New Orleans and Washington D.C.
| Top Destinations – World | Top Destinations – U.S. |
| 1. London, U.K. | 1. New York City, NY |
| 2. Bali, Indonesia | 2. O’ahu, HI |
| 3. Dubai, U.A.E. | 3. Las Vegas, NV |
| 4. Sicily, Italy | 4. Florida Keys, FL |
| 5. Paris, France | 5. New Orleans, LA |
| 6. Rome, Italy | 6. Nashville, TN |
| 7. Hanoi, Vietnam | 7. San Francisco, CA |
| 8. Marrakech, Morocco | 8. Chicago, IL |
| 9. Crete, Greece | 9. Charleston, SC |
| 10. Bangkok, Thailand | 10. Washington, D.C. |
Trending for 2025
Osaka, Japan, is named No. 1 Trending Destination in the World for 2025, based on year-on-year growth of reviews. Known as ‘the nation’s kitchen’, Osaka has a thriving food scene, as well as great shopping and nightlife. It is also the perfect base for exploring the Kansai region, which is home to multiple UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia comes in at No. 2, followed by Argentina’s capital Buenos Aires at No. 3.
The Trending Destinations in the U.S. included a mix of sun and snow, from coastal getaways like West Palm Beach and Santa Barbara, to the mountain views of Denver and Park City. The Midwest is having a moment, with Cleveland and Kansas City nearing the top of the list, while destinations adjacent to big cities, like Memphis and Brooklyn, are also rising the ranks.
| Trending Destinations – World | Trending Destinations – U.S. |
| 1. Osaka, Japan | 1. West Palm Beach, FL |
| 2. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia | 2. Santa Barbara, CA |
| 3. Buenos Aires, Argentina | 3. Cleveland, OH |
| 4. Manama, Bahrain | 4. Kansas City, MO |
| 5. Lima, Peru | 5. Memphis, TN |
| 6. Medellin, Colombia | 6. Park City, UT |
| 7. Auckland, New Zealand | 7. Juneau, AK |
| 8. Kyoto, Japan | 8. Denver, CO |
| 9. Seoul, South Korea | 9. Brooklyn, NY |
| 10. Casablanca, Morocco | 10. Hilton Head, SC |
New for 2025
As Tripadvisor celebrates a quarter of a century this year, the 25th Anniversary Destinations list pays homage to reviewers’ favorite destinations since the launch of the site. London also tops this category, followed by New York at No. 2 and Rome at No. 3.
| 25th Anniversary Destinations |
| 1. London, U.K. |
| 2. New York City, U.S. |
| 3. Rome, Italy |
| 4. Paris, France |
| 5. Bali, Indonesia |
| 6. Barcelona, Spain |
| 7. Dubai , U.A.E. |
| 8. Crete, Greece |
| 9. Lisbon, Portugal |
| 10. Bangkok, Thailand |
This year also sees the launch of another new category, Solo Travel Destinations. This list features many major global cities, with South Korean capital, Seoul taking the top spot. These destinations are loved by solo travelers and perfect for anyone heading out on an adventure alone.
| Solo Travel Destinations – World |
| 1. Seoul, South Korea |
| 2. Kathmandu, Nepal |
| 3. Cusco, Peru |
| 4. Bangkok, Thailand |
| 5. Osaka, Japan |
| 6. Dubai, U.A.E. |
| 7. Kyoto, Japan |
| 8. Chiang Mai, Thailand |
| 9. Reykjavik, Iceland |
| 10. Melbourne, Australia |
Best of the Rest
With travelers across the world most excited about food on their upcoming trips, according to Tripadvisor’s latest Seasonal Travel Index, best Food Destinations is the ultimate guide to where to find the best culinary experiences.
| Food Destinations – World | Food Destinations – U.S. |
| 1. Rome, Italy | 1. New Orleans, LA |
| 2. London, U.K. | 2. Charleston, SC |
| 3. Marrakech, Morocco | 3. New York City, NY |
| 4. Paris, France | 4. Savannah, GA |
| 5. Naples, Italy | 5. Asheville, NC |
| 6. Barcelona, Spain | 6. Boston, MA |
| 7. Lima, Peru | 7. Nashville, TN |
| 8. New Orleans, U.S. | 8. Portland, ME |
| 9. Buenos Aires, Argentina | 9. San Diego, CA |
| 10. Athens, Greece | 10. San Francisco, CA |
The best Culture Destinations celebrate the destinations bursting with vibrant arts scenes and rich in heritage that are inspiring travelers across the world. Rich in culture and traditions, Bali takes the No. 1 spot, followed by Hanoi, Vietnam at No. 2 and London at No. 3.
| Culture Destinations – World |
| 1. Bali, Indonesia |
| 2. Hanoi, Vietnam |
| 3. London, U.K. |
| 4. Marrakech, Morocco |
| 5. Rome, Italy |
| 6. Cusco, Peru |
| 7. Kathmandu, Nepal |
| 8. New Delhi, India |
| 9. Crete, Greece |
| 10. Siem Reap, Cambodia |
For couples looking to celebrate one of their most special trips, best Honeymoon Destinations showcases the most romantic places on earth, from private beaches to intimate dinners, these are travelers’ favorites to set the mood for two.
| Honeymoon Destinations – World |
| 1. Mauritius |
| 2. Bali, Indonesia |
| 3. Maldives |
| 4. Hoi An, Vietnam |
| 5. Phuket, Thailand |
| 6. Santorini, Greece |
| 7. Zanzibar Island, Tanzania |
| 8. Florence, Italy |
| 9. La Fortuna de San Carlos, Costa Rica |
| 10. St. Lucia |
Methodologies
Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Destinations
The 2025 Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Destinations are calculated based on the quality and quantity of reviews, specific to each award subcategory, for accommodations, restaurants, and things to do in destinations from travelers globally on Tripadvisor between October 1, 2023 through September 30, 2024.
Tripadvisor Seasonal Travel Index
The data cited in this release was gathered and analyzed from two key sources:
- A Tripadvisor Consumer Sentiment Survey, based on data drawn from an online survey of over 4,850 consumers, in partnership with Qualtrics, conducted between September 6 – October 3, 2024 across six countries, including Australia, France, Japan, Singapore, U.K. & U.S.
- Site behavioral data sourced from first party traffic data on the Tripadvisor platform for searches made by travelers in the U.S., U.K. and Japan between August 1 – October 20, 2024 for travel between November 1, 2024 – January 31, 2025.
About Tripadvisor
Tripadvisor, the world’s largest travel guidance platform*, helps millions of people each month** become better travelers, from planning to booking to taking a trip. Travelers across the globe use Tripadvisor’s website and app to discover where to stay, what to do and where to eat based on guidance from those who have been there before. With more than a billion reviews and contributions, travelers turn to Tripadvisor to find deals on accommodations, book experiences, reserve tables at delicious restaurants and discover great places nearby.
Tripadvisor LLC is a wholly owned subsidiary of Tripadvisor, Inc. (Nasdaq: TRIP). The subsidiaries of Tripadvisor, Inc. own and operate a portfolio of travel media brands and businesses, operating under various websites and apps.
* Source: SimilarWeb, unique users de-duplicated monthly, Jan 2025
** Source: Tripadvisor internal log files
SOURCE Tripadvisor
STM Daily News is a vibrant news blog dedicated to sharing the brighter side of human experiences. Emphasizing positive, uplifting stories, the site focuses on delivering inspiring, informative, and well-researched content. With a commitment to accurate, fair, and responsible journalism, STM Daily News aims to foster a community of readers passionate about positive change and engaged in meaningful conversations. Join the movement and explore stories that celebrate the positive impacts shaping our world.
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