Gayathri Kallukaran is a Junior Journalist with Eastern Eye. She has a Master’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from St. Paul’s College, Bengaluru, and brings over five years of experience in content creation, including two years in digital journalism. She covers stories across culture, lifestyle, travel, health, and technology, with a creative yet fact-driven approach to reporting. Known for her sensitivity towards human interest narratives, Gayathri’s storytelling often aims to inform, inspire, and empower. Her journey began as a layout designer and reporter for her college’s daily newsletter, where she also contributed short films and editorial features. Since then, she has worked with platforms like FWD Media, Pepper Content, and Petrons.com, where several of her interviews and features have gained spotlight recognition. Fluent in English, Malayalam, Tamil, and Hindi, she writes in English and Malayalam, continuing to explore inclusive, people-focused storytelling in the digital space.
Walt Disney World is unveiling something truly unique this June — Geo-82, its first-ever adults-only lounge located within the iconic Spaceship Earth at EPCOT. Designed for guests aged 21 and over, this stylish retreat offers a fresh take on grown-up luxury in the heart of the theme park. Here are the top five reasons why Geo-82 deserves a place on your must-visit list.
1. An exclusive, child-free experience inside EPCOT
For the first time, Disney World is offering a dedicated space exclusively for adults. Geo-82 is designed to be a quiet, refined escape from the usual family-oriented park atmosphere. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just seeking a moment of calm, this lounge offers a rare bit of serenity amidst the magic.
2. Gourmet small plates with global flair
The small bites are also not to be missedDisney Parks Blog
Geo-82's menu is curated with food lovers in mind. Dishes like jumbo lump crab gâteau with Siberian Supreme caviar and plant-based cannellini hummus with heirloom radish elevate typical park fare to restaurant-quality standards. There's also a chef’s selection of artisan cheeses and meats for those who enjoy a classic charcuterie board.
3. Craft cocktails and exclusive bourbon flights
Clarified New York SourDisney Parks Blog
The drinks menu is just as impressive as the food. From a brown butter old fashioned to a caramelised leek martini, the cocktails are imaginative and expertly prepared. For whiskey fans, the Disney Select Bourbon Flight includes rare options exclusive to this venue. Zero-proof cocktails are also available for those preferring non-alcoholic options.
4. Front-row views of EPCOT’s fireworks
With the Geo-82 Fireworks Experience, guests can enjoy premium viewing of EPCOT’s nightly “Luminous: The Symphony of Us” fireworks display. For $179 per person, this package includes a private table, savoury and sweet tasting plates, plus Champagne or a signature cocktail served during the show. It’s a perfect option for date nights or special celebrations.
5. Immersive design with EPCOT nostalgia
The name Geo-82 is a tribute to EPCOT’s iconic geodesic sphere and its launch year, 1982. The interior design leans into this legacy, combining futuristic architecture with a sophisticated lounge vibe. The views from the windows — looking out over World Celebration Gardens and World Showcase Lagoon — add to the atmosphere and give guests a fresh perspective of the park.
Geo-82 opens on 4 June 2025, with reservations available from 6 May. Whether you’re a Disney diehard or just looking for a new kind of theme park experience, this adults-only lounge offers something truly different.
A 5.4-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Almería, southern Spain, at 7.13 am on Monday
The tremor was felt in over 50 towns, including tourist destinations like Malaga
No injuries have been reported, but building damage occurred in airports and showrooms
The quake follows a weekend of floods and severe weather in Spain
No UK Foreign Office travel warnings have been issued, but travellers are advised to check local alerts
Southern Spain was rocked by a 5.4-magnitude earthquake on the morning of Monda,y 14 July, with tremors felt across several provinces, including popular tourist destinations.
The earthquake struck at 7.13 am off the coast of Almería, nearly two miles below sea level, according to Spain’s National Geographic Institute (IGN). Despite its intensity, there have been no reported injuries, although some structural damage has occurred.
Where was the earthquake felt?
The tremor was experienced in more than 50 towns across seven provinces in southern Spain, including Almería, Granada, Jaén, Murcia, Alicante, Albacete, and particularly in Malaga, which was among the worst affected. Reports also indicate the quake was felt in parts of North Africa.
A tourist staying in Agua Amarga in Almería told Spanish newspaper El País, “I was sleeping, and the whole house shook for a few seconds. There was an incredible roar. It woke up my entire family and our neighbours.”
How severe was the earthquake?
Spain’s IGN measured the earthquake at 5.4 magnitude, corresponding to levels IV to V on the European Macroseismic Scale, classified as “widely observed” to “strong.” While the quake was more powerful than the 2011 Lorca earthquake, which killed nine people, including a pregnant woman, Monday's tremor occurred offshore, lessening the potential for destruction.
Andalusia emergency services confirmed receiving 25 calls from the public, though no injuries were recorded. However, damage to buildings was reported in various locations.
Damage to infrastructure
Almería airport sustained damage in its departures lounge, where ceiling tiles collapsed in a café area. A member of staff described hearing a sequence of noises, followed by a loud bang and a large cloud of dust. Fortunately, no one was hurt.
In Huércal de Almería, the ceiling of a Toyota showroom was also damaged.
Recent weather chaos in Spain
The earthquake follows a weekend of severe flooding and thunderstorms across parts of Spain. Streets were submerged in several towns, and emergency weather alerts remain in place for 25 provinces.
Catalan Health Minister Olga Pané told Catalan News that 71 hospital patients had to be evacuated to alternative facilities in the region, including Sant Camil, Bellvitge, and Viladecans.
Is it safe to travel to Spain?
The UK Foreign Office has not issued any travel warnings related to the Spain earthquakes or recent flooding. However, it advises travellers to monitor updates from Spain’s meteorological agency AEMET and follow the guidance of local authorities.
Travellers planning to visit affected regions should stay informed about ongoing weather and seismic developments and remain alert to any official advisories.
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Discover hidden UK beaches with turquoise waters and golden sands
Ideal for summer staycations without the cost of long-haul travel
Includes lesser-known spots in Wales, Scotland, Cornwall, and more
Perfect for quiet escapes, coastal walks, and Instagram-worthy views
Escape to paradise – no passport required
Think you need to fly halfway across the world for clear blue water and white sand? Think again. The UK is home to a surprising number of secluded beaches that look straight out of the Caribbean – without the crowds or jet lag. From hidden coves in Cornwall to windswept bays in the Scottish Highlands, here are some of the most tropical-looking beaches on British soil.
1. Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire, Wales
Often dubbed the UK’s answer to the Caribbean, this National Trust-owned gem boasts golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic cliffs. Accessed by a half-mile walk from Stackpole Quay, it remains blissfully untouched by development.
Best for: Picnics, photography, and a peaceful swim Nearest parking: Stackpole Quay car park
2. Achmelvich Bay, Sutherland, Scotland
Many of these beaches are tidal and best enjoyed at low tideiStock
With white sands and dazzling turquoise water, this beach in the remote northwest Highlands rivals beaches anywhere in the world. The journey is long, but the views – and near-solitude – make it worth every mile.
Tucked beneath rugged cliffs near Porthcurno, this tidal beach is often reached via a steep cliff path – but rewards visitors with stunning sandbars and glassy water at low tide. It’s also unofficially clothing-optional.
Best for: Adventurous walkers, secluded sunbathing Access: Steep footpath from Treen
4. Luskentyre Beach, Isle of Harris, Outer Hebrides
Framed by the turquoise seaiStock
Arguably one of Britain’s most spectacular beaches, Luskentyre’s vast white sands stretch for miles, framed by the turquoise sea and Harris’s dramatic hills. When the sun shines, it’s hard to believe you’re still in Scotland.
Best for: Landscape lovers, long coastal walks How to get there: Ferry from Skye to Tarbert, then a 25-minute drive
5. Kynance Cove, Cornwall
It’s best visited early or late in the dayiStock
With its striking serpentine rock formations, teal-coloured waters, and hidden caves, Kynance is a postcard-perfect Cornish cove. Its popularity means it’s best visited early or late in the day.
Best for: Exploring caves, paddling Nearby: Kynance Cove Café (seasonal)
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Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, who grew up in Brenchley
Day one of the Kent County Show begins at Detling Showground near Maidstone
The Duchess of Edinburgh visits the event for the first time in 16 years
Organisers expect up to 70,000 visitors over the weekend
Farming and rural life are at the centre of the three-day programme
Highlights include live camel racing, equine sports, livestock displays and more
Kent County Show opens with royal visit
The Kent County Show returned to Detling near Maidstone on Friday, marking the start of a major three-day celebration of farming, food, and rural living. The event opened with a special visit from the Duchess of Edinburgh, who is attending for the first time in 16 years.
Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, who grew up in Brenchley near Tunbridge Wells and serves as patron of the Association of Show and Agricultural Organisations (ASAO), met with farmers, equine exhibitors, and local businesses on her tour of the showground.
Spotlight on farming and rural life
Organised by the Kent County Agricultural Society, the show brings together people from across the county to highlight the importance of agriculture and rural industries. Chairman Matthew Cullen said there was a "real buzz in the air" and called the royal visit a “great achievement”.
“There’s lots on offer,” he said. “From the livestock section with all the animals, young farmers, equine sports and food halls. We’ve also got something a little unusual this year – live camel racing. It isn’t what you’d normally get to see.”
Mr Cullen added that the event offers an opportunity for farmers to network and for the public to better understand how food is produced. “We all know Kent as the Garden of England, so for the rural and farming sector, it's a proud moment to come together and show off to the general public.”
Boost in interest following farming TV series
According to Mr Cullen, the farming sector has seen a noticeable spike in public interest, partly due to the popularity of the Amazon Prime series Clarkson’s Farm. “It has brought farming to the forefront of people’s minds,” he said, noting a broader uptick in engagement at agricultural shows across the UK.
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Friday highlights at the showground
The opening day features a packed programme of events across multiple rings. Highlights include:
09:30 – Kent Youth Trials (Heritage Ring)
10:00 – Joseph’s Amazing Racing Pigs (Countryside Ring)
11:15 – Camel Racing (John D Wood & Co Astor Ring)
11:45 – Sheep Dog Display (Countryside Ring)
12:15 – Hypo Hounds Diabetic Assistance Dog Display (Countryside Ring)
13:15 – Heritage Parade (John D Wood & Co Astor Ring)
15:05 – British Novice Showjumping with 90cm Open (Standen Ring)
17:30 – Donkey In Hand Championship (Pam Nesfield Ring)
Performances from Rock Choir and various vehicle and dog displays are also scheduled throughout the day.
Visitor information and tickets
Attendance for the weekend is expected to range between 60,000 to 70,000 people, depending on the weather. Tickets are still available to book online or can be purchased at the gate.
Adult tickets: £22 (in advance)
Child tickets: £3 (in advance)
Under 5s: Free entry
The Kent County Show continues through the weekend with a wide range of attractions, from local produce to equestrian competitions and entertainment for all ages.
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The Turkey wildfires have not been limited to Izmir
Tourists stranded after Foça wildfire halts flights at Izmir airport
At least 550 people evacuated from homes in the region
Over 600 personnel deployed to contain the blaze
Strong winds and heat raise risk of further fires
Wildfires force airport shutdown in Turkish holiday hotspot
Hundreds of UK tourists, including several from Glasgow, have been left stranded after major wildfires swept through a popular holiday destination in western Turkey, forcing the closure of Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport.
The blaze broke out in the resort town of Foça, near Izmir, and was rapidly intensified by strong winds, prompting large-scale evacuations and flight disruptions. All operations at the airport were suspended from 4 pm local time due to ongoing extinguishing efforts, with multiple flights reportedly diverted.
More than 550 residents were evacuated from 175 homes in the Ilıpınar district, while emergency crews battled the fire for over 22 hours. The extensive response included 625 personnel, 46 fire engines, six helicopters, nine bulldozers and 13 water tankers.
Dramatic footage showed aircraft dropping water over the blaze in an effort to slow its spread. Authorities are still investigating the cause of the fire.
Süleyman Elban, Governor of Izmir Province, has urged residents and visitors to remain cautious, citing the combination of high temperatures and low humidity as factors that could lead to additional fires.
The Turkey wildfires have not been limited to Izmir. Blazes have also been reported this week in Kahramanmaraş, Bursa, Sakarya, Bilecik, Gaziantep, Bolu and Manisa, putting regional emergency services under sustained pressure.
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North-west England had already been classified as being in drought in late May
The UK is facing increasingly unpredictable weather, with June 2025 bringing record-breaking heat, dry conditions and growing fears of water shortages. Experts say the shift is consistent with long-term climate change trends and that urgent adaptation is needed.
1.Yorkshire and North-West England are officially in drought
Parts of England are already under significant strain due to lack of rainfall. Yorkshire officially entered drought on 12 June 2025, following what the Met Office described as the driest spring in the region for 132 years. Reservoir levels in the area dropped to around 62 per cent, well below the seasonal average of 85 per cent.
Reservoir levels in the area dropped to around 62 per centGetty Images
North-west England had already been classified as being in drought in late May, after experiencing the driest February to April period since 1893. United Utilities reported that key reservoirs such as Haweswater and Thirlmere in Cumbria were only around 47 per cent full, down from 95 per cent the previous year.
According to the Environment Agency, overall reservoir stocks across England and Wales stood between 77 and 84 per cent at the end of May, prompting water suppliers to urge households to cut back on usage. Hosepipe bans have not yet been enforced but are being considered if conditions worsen.
2. Heatwave alerts are in place as temperatures approach 33°C
The UK’s weather is also heating up, with the Met Office forecasting that temperatures could exceed 30°C in parts of England by the weekend of 21–23 June. A yellow-level heat health alert has been issued for seven regions, including London, the East Midlands and the South East, lasting from 19 to 22 June.
A yellow-level heat health alert has been issued for seven regionsGetty Images
Temperatures are expected to peak at 32–33°C in southern England. Authorities have warned that such heat poses serious risks to older adults and vulnerable groups, especially during periods of high humidity and poor overnight cooling.
Public Health England has advised people to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest hours, and keep their homes as cool as possible.
3. Wildfire risk is rising in rural and forested areas
Emergency services in southern and central England have issued warnings about increased wildfire risks due to the expected heatwave and continued dry ground conditions. Firefighters in areas such as Dorset and the West Midlands are on high alert following several small grass and heathland fires in recent weeks.
Firefighters in areas such as Dorset and the West Midlands are on high alertGetty Images
The combination of prolonged dry weather and hot temperatures creates ideal conditions for wildfires to ignite and spread rapidly, particularly in rural or forested areas.
4. Intense rainstorms are causing flash floods
Spring 2025 was the warmest and sunniest on record for the UK, with the country receiving just 56 per cent of its average rainfall. In England, rainfall was even lower, around 44 per cent of the seasonal norm.
Experts have noted a shift in the pattern of rainfall, with longer dry spells followed by intense, short bursts of rain. While this might sound like balance, it increases the risk of flash flooding and water run-off, as parched ground struggles to absorb sudden downpours.
It increases the risk of flash flooding and water run-offGetty Images
Earlier this year, parts of Greater Manchester and South Yorkshire experienced brief but severe flooding after heavy rain overwhelmed local drainage systems.
5. Milder winters are becoming the norm
While the focus in 2025 has been on summer extremes, milder winters have also become a consistent trend. According to the Met Office, UK winters have seen a decrease in frost days and snowfall over the past decade, accompanied by increased rainfall. This shift is affecting seasonal activities, agriculture and even wildlife, which depend on temperature cues to regulate behaviour.
UK winters have seen a decrease in frost days and snowfall over the past decadeGetty Images
Though no specific winter data for 2024–25 has been highlighted, previous patterns suggest that traditional winters are becoming increasingly rare.
6. Long-term infrastructure investment is under way
The National Drought Group, which met on 5 June 2025, highlighted that only 57 per cent of the average rainfall fell across England in May. The group has called for increased preparedness, warning that both water supply and infrastructure are at risk from extreme weather events.
The UK government and water companies are planning major investments in resilience, including a £104 billion strategy over the next five years aimed at improving water supply networks and flood defences.
The Met Office has reiterated that these changes are consistent with global climate change projections. Without mitigation and adaptation, such weather extremes could become more frequent and severe.
7. What individuals can do
Water companies and environmental agencies are urging the public to take steps to conserve water. This includes fixing leaks, using water-efficient appliances, avoiding car washing, and switching to drought-tolerant plants in gardens.
Households are also being encouraged to prepare for heatwaves by checking on elderly relatives and neighbours, staying informed through official alerts, and planning for possible restrictions.
The UK’s weather is no longer following the patterns people once expected. Whether through rising temperatures, reduced rainfall, or more extreme weather events, the country is seeing the tangible effects of climate change. Adaptation, at both the personal and policy level, will be key to facing this new climate reality.