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Crete's Elafonissi Beach named world's best by Tripadvisor

Elafonissi Beach in Crete, Greece, has topped Tripadvisor's list of the world's best beaches for 2025.

Known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and unique pink sand, Elafonissi climbed 23 spots to claim the No. 1 position in the annual ranking, which is based on an analysis of millions of traveler reviews.

"Elafonissi Beach is a must-visit destination," Tripadvisor said, describing the beach as surrounded by cedar forests ideal for hiking.

Other beaches in the top five include Banana Beach in Phuket, Thailand; Eagle Beach in Aruba; Siesta Beach in Florida; and Praia da Falésia in Portugal’s Algarve region.

Myrtos Beach in Kefalonia, Greece, also made the top 10.

"This year’s winners truly showcase the variety of what a beach trip can offer," said Kristen Dalton, President of Tripadvisor.

 

 

Constantinople: They turned the ancient 1,500-year-old cistern next to Hagia Sophia into a spa center (video)


Following the protests, the General Directorate of Cultural Assets and Museums filed a complaint against the responsible persons

The operation of a spa center in a 1,500-year-old historical cistern next to the Agios Sophia has caused a reaction in Constantinople.

The massage center is operated by the Navitas Spa Sarnıçk and is housed in the five-star Hilton Hotel.

The site where the spa center operates is a 1,500-year-old underground structure dating back to the Byzantine Empire. Such cisterns were built to store water for the purpose of supplying water to Constantinople. This particular tank, with its impressive architecture, is considered an important example of Byzantine heritage.

According to Turkish media reports, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the General Directorate of Cultural Assets and Museums filed a lawsuit against the company in 2023, following complaints.

However, despite the lawsuit, the spa continues to operate and provide services, advertising the location where it is housed. “If you want to enjoy a unique spa experience in a magical atmosphere, choose Navitas Spa. Located in the heart of Sultanahmet, Hagia Sofia Mansions Istanbul, Curio Collection by Hilton is home to a modern spa center set within a historic 1,500-year-old reservoir. Navitas Spa is an exclusive wellness space offering personalised, high-end services,” the business’s website reads.