Latest news with #Iceland
Forbes
7 hours ago
- Forbes
The Future Of Iceland: Volcano Tourism, New Hotels, And Authentic Adventures
Godafoss waterfall on Skjalfandafljot river in summer at Northern Iceland getty I t was a lesson in resilience: layering pillows against the curtained windows of my tiny hotel in a futile attempt to block out the relentless sunlight. It was nearly 2 a.m.—a time when most of the world was deep in sleep—but I was wide awake, caught in the glow of Iceland's midnight sun. In the peak of summer, the sun dips only slightly below the horizon, creating a golden hue that lingers long into the night. I was spending my first night in Reykjavik, as many travelers do on transatlantic stopovers en route to the U.S. But I wasn't staying long in the city. My heart was set on the wilder side: the stark beauty of the North, the Arctic Circle within reach, and the charm of the East, where I hoped to connect with locals in sleepy fishing villages and windswept coastal towns. Sleep might be scarce, but I didn't mind. The promise of the day ahead was too exciting—soaking in thermal lagoons, my skin covered in white silica, scrubbed with green algae, and slathered in mineral-rich oils. Iceland was ready to work its magic on me. Hotel Sigloo in North Iceland Jim Dobson for Forbes Iceland is a truly remarkable destination of fire and ice, continuing to attract travelers from around the world. Despite the devastating volcano eruption in 2023, tourism is booming. And it's easy to understand why. Spectacular mountains, endless lava fields, and craggy valleys all showcase a land sculpted by volcanic eruptions and shifting glaciers. The result is a landscape as raw and powerful as it is beautiful. Most visitors try to pack as much as possible into a short whirlwind trip, often starting with the iconic Golden Circle drive in the southwest of the country. The famed route includes Instagram-worthy favorites like Thingvellir National Park, the bubbling Geysir geothermal area, and the mighty Gullfoss Waterfall. But while the South gets most of the spotlight, the true magic lies further away. The more adventurous explorers drive the ring road that circles the edge of the island. Gullfoss waterfall is located in the canyon of the Hvítá river in southwest Iceland Jim Dobson for Forbes In the north, you'll find a different Iceland, where dramatic waterfalls, geothermal baths, and sleepy seaside villages feel a world away from civilization. To the east, an entirely different world awaits: rough coastlines where whales breach close to shore, quiet fjords dotted with playful puffins, and lush green valleys filled with Icelandic long-haired horses and, if you're lucky, a reindeer or two. Locals are quick to whisper about elves and trolls hiding in the hills, though they proved elusive on my visit. The best way to begin your adventure in the north is with a short flight to Akureyri, often called the Capital of the North. From there, a road trip reveals surreal landscapes and a series of long, jaw-dropping tunnels carved into the mountainsides. One tunnel, narrow and single-laned, feels like a scene from a thriller where oncoming cars seemingly play a game of chicken. Single lane tunnel. Oddsskard tunnel is between the villages Eskifjordur and Nordfjordur, Eastern Iceland getty Something's Fishy in Siglufjörður Your first stop should be Siglufjörður, Iceland's northernmost town, nestled in a narrow fjord surrounded by steep, misty peaks. Once a small shark-fishing outpost in the early 1900s, the town quickly gained fame as the herring capital of the Atlantic. Its fortunes varied with the changing industry, but its history is still deeply woven into every part of the town. I arrived just in time for the annual Fisherman's Day celebrations, held each June, to honor the country's maritime heritage. The entire village comes alive with music, festivities, and races on fishing trawlers—where fish and chips are consumed with glee, and visitors are immersed in authentic Icelandic culture. East Iceland cottages for rent by the sea on the peninsula of Mjóeyri, outside the village of Eskifjörður. Jim Dobson for Forbes Make Hotel Sigló your base camp—this harborside gem offers sweeping views of the fishing boats and distant fjord. The spacious contemporary rooms and warm service make this a destination unto itself. Don't miss a visit to Segull 67 Brewery, a family-run craft brewery housed in a converted fish factory. Run by three generations—a grandfather, father, and son, this brewhouse is a local favorite. Their small-batch beers are served in a cozy, minimalist tasting room. Owner Elvar Reykjalin and grandson Sigmar Reykjalin Hjelm and their Hot tubs on the Black beach in Hauganes Jim Dobson for Forbes Rotten Shark Appetizers in Hauganes From Siglufjörður, head south to Hauganes, a peaceful village by a fjord. Perched above a black sand beach, you'll find the Fjöruböðin Black Beach Hot Tubs, a unique experience created by Elvar Reykjalin—Iceland's very own Pierce Brosnan. After soaking in the waterfront tubs, visit the Baccalá Bar for a drink and seafood. And for the adventurous and daring, try the Rotten Shark (Hákarl) tasting they offer. If anything, it is worth it for the laughs alone, thanks to the comedy team of Elvar and his grandson. Big things are in store for Hauganes: plans are underway for a new beachfront hotel and expanded soaking areas to open next year. Cafe in the mountains owned by farmer Vilhjalmur Vernhardsson offers traditional accommodations as well as amazing food at his restaurant Fjallakaffi Jim Dobson for Forbes Lake Mývatn and the Middle Ages Cafe in the Mountains Next up is Lake Mývatn, one of Iceland's most famous volcanic lakes. Grab a quick bite at Fish & Chips Lake Mývatn, a quaint roadside stop with lake views and cod that comes directly from the Sólberg óf 1 fishing vessel. Expect long lines—it's a favorite among road-trippers. Then, take a detour to Möðrudalur, a tiny outpost at the edge of the northern highlands. Stop at Fjalladýrð Möðrudalur, known to locals as the 'cafe in the mountains.' Owned by farmer Vilhjalmur Vernhardsson, the property feels like a location from The Lord of the Rings. It's Iceland's highest inhabited farm, dating back to the settlement era. Here, you'll find turf housed for overnight stays, fabulous gourmet dining, and even your own reindeer roaming the grounds. Saevar Gudjonsson at his Randulffssjóhús Restaurant in East Iceland Jim Dobson for Forbes East Iceland: Fishing, Foxes and Baths As you make your way through East Iceland, follow Route 92 to Eskifjörður, a charming fishing town nestled beneath the stunning Hólmatindur mountain. The adjacent Hólmanes nature reserve is home to excellent walking trails that weave between the majestic rock formations. Eskifjörður, officially a trading post since 1789, is still an important hub. Dine at Randulf's Sea House, an old seafarer's lodge run by Sævar Guðjónsson and Berglind Ingvarsdóttir. The upstairs fisherman's quarters have remained untouched since 1890. For a unique stay, you can book one of their bright red cottages on the Mjóeyri peninsula—complete with a resident baby fox and an outdoor soaking tub built into an old fishing boat. Fishing excursion with Captain Hafthor Valgeirsson and his wife Sunna Julia Thordardottir with Skorrahestar. Jim Dobson for Forbes Continue to Neskaupstaður, the easternmost town in Iceland, nestled in a fjord surrounded by towering mountains. While accommodations here are really basic (mine was a converted school dorm), what it lacks in luxury, it makes up for in raw beauty. Skip sleep and head out on a sea-angling night with Captain Hafthor Valgeirsson and his wife, Sunna Julia Thordardottir, fishing under the midnight sun. Marina in Siglufjordur Jim Dobson for Forbes Be sure to stop at Beituskúrinn Bait Shack, a former whaling station house brought from Norway in the 1800s. It served as a summer bunkhouse and cod storage for nearly a century. Now, the building has been converted into a lively bar and restaurant. Spend a leisurely afternoon watching whales offshore or visit the nearby Reindeer Park in Fellabaer for an intimate, hands-on experience with rescued reindeer. Unlike a zoo, the park focuses on creating close, respectful encounters. The dramatic fjords of East Iceland Jim Dobson for Forbes It's always time for another hot soak, so visit Vök Baths in Egilsstaðir. Set on the shores of Lake Urriðavatn, this large spa features multiple floating thermal pools with infinity views, two onshore hot tubs, a sauna, a cold water mist tunnel, and a swim-up bar. This spa is the perfect spot to wrap up your adventure before heading off to Egilsstadir Airport for the short flight back to Reykjavik. On my final day in Iceland, I still couldn't sleep. It wasn't the endless sunlight keeping me awake, but the feeling that I didn't want to miss my final glimpses of this otherworldly land. Iceland isn't just a place you visit. It's a place that stays with you long after the midnight sun has finally set. Vök Baths Vök Baths Unique Hotels Are Coming For the Adventurous Traveler As tourism surges and adventure-seeking travelers look for unique experiences, a wave of new resorts is being planned to meet the demand. Iceland's famed Blue Lagoon is plotting further hospitality expansion, with a second Retreat-branded hotel expected to open in the highlands of Iceland by 2027. Blue Lagoon said the new hotel will be located in a mountain destination that's relatively close to the company's post-apocalyptic feeling Highland Base at Kerlingafjöll resort, which opened last July. The highlands have been off-limits to outsiders in winter, but Highland Base changed all of that. The new adventure-focused Highland Base concept features a geothermal spa and a high-end 40-room hotel in Þjórsárdalur Valley, Iceland. The building is carved into a rocky mountain and partially covered with the volcanic materials of the site. The natural rock is always present within the interior of the building, with large windows that open up to the surrounding landscape. This new geothermal spa and high-end hotel in Þjórsárdalur Valley is carved into a rocky mountain and covered in part with the volcanic materials of the site. basalt architects Six Senses Össurá Valley The first phase of the project, slated to open in 2030, is located in Svínhólar near Lóni. The flatland at the southern end is adjacent to the Lón Lagoon, which is separated from the North Atlantic Ocean by a beautiful black sand beach. There will be a 70-guestroom resort and private cottages as well as branded Residences on the surrounding land. Futuristic architect John Brevard will design the property inspired by the country's mystical elves, whose pyramid-shaped homes will add mysticism to the project. Hofdi Lodge in Northern Iceland Hodfi Lodge Hofdi Lodge – Höfði Lodge With 40 rooms and breathtaking views of Eyjafjörður, this remote adventure lodge is just 25 minutes from the north capital, Akureyri. Built by the owners of Viking Heliskiing, the property is perched on cliffs overlooking the longest fjörd in Iceland; Hofdi Lodge offers a peaceful escape with stunning views. Alongside a restaurant, rooftop bar, and spa, Hofdi Lodge also features a gym, helicopter pads, horse stables, and indoor golf. Mirrored house at ÖÖD ÖÖD Hotels ÖÖD Hekla Horizon This new development is bringing seven mirrored homes to the south of Iceland near the Hekla Volcano. The houses are designed to blend seamlessly into the landscape. Jaak and Andreas Tiik run a popular mirror house company with projects worldwide, from California to Ghana. They have been engineered to withstand some of the world's most extreme weather conditions yet still provide a 180-degree floor-to-ceiling glass façade that seamlessly blends into the natural surroundings. Forest Lagoon Hotel This 120-room hotel is currently under construction next to the Forest Lagoon, just outside of Akureyri. The hotel will feature a restaurant, a conference hall, and, of course, a great connection to the Forest Lagoon, which both locals and visitors in North Iceland have highly regarded. The hotel will open at the end of 2027, and the lagoon will be expanded to connect to the building. Among other properties, Hilton will be expanding in Iceland with two new additions: the Akureyri "Skáld" Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton, set to open in summer 2025, and a premium lifestyle hotel in Reykjavik, scheduled to open in spring 2026. Fjöruböðin – Beach Baths Hauganes Fjöruböðin – Beach Baths Hauganes MORE FROM FORBES Forbes From Iceland To Italy, These Are The Most Active Volcanoes In The World By Jim Dobson Iceland
Yahoo
11 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
'Do not eat': Products sold at Lidl, Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury's and more recalled
Products sold at Sainsbury's, Asda, Tesco, Lidl, Iceland and other UK supermarkets have been recalled with 'do not eat' warnings issued by the Food Standards Agency (FSA). Recalls have been issued on products for a variety of reasons, including metal being found in a a breakfast food that may contain insects, and a popular brand of pies having incorrect use-by dates on the label. We have rounded up the ongoing product recalls you should be aware of. If you have bought any of the items mentioned below, you need to be aware of these potential health risks. A range of Pieminister Kitchens pies have been recalled because they have been labelled with incorrect use-by dates which may make them unsafe to eat. The affected pies have been labelled with a use-by date of June 24, 2026, instead of a use-by date of June 24, 2025. These are the pies being recalled by Pieminister: Pieminister Moo – British Beef Steak and Craft Ale Pie Pieminister Moo & Blue – British Beef Steak and Stilton Pie Pieminister Kate & Sidney – British Beef Steak, Kidney and Craft Ale Pie Pieminister Deer & Beer – Venison, Milk Stout, Mushroom and Thyme Pie Pieminister Free Ranger – Free Range British Chicken and Ham Pie with Leek Pieminister Fungi Chicken – Free Range British Chicken, Portobello and Chestnut Mushroom Pieminister Wild Shroom – Portobello and Chestnut Mushroom Pie Pieminister Mooless Moo – Jackfruit, Craft Ale and Black Pepper Pie Pieminister – Goat's Cheese and Sweet Potato Filo Pie Pieminister – Spinach and Feta Filo Pie Friday 13 June 2025 - @pieminister Kitchens recalls various Pieminister pies because of incorrect use-by dates: — Food Standards Agency (@foodgov) June 13, 2025 A Pieminister spokesman said: 'The fresh pies, made in our Bristol bakery on one day this week, were labelled with an incorrect use-by date on the boxes. 'Pieminister Kitchens would like to reassure our customers that these pies have been produced to the same exacting standards of food safety and quality that you expect from us, and they are completely safe to eat until June 24, 2025. 'However, if you would prefer to return any pies incorrectly labelled, please contact Pieminister customer service for a full refund. You can reach us by email at hello@ or by phone on 0117 942 3300. 'Pieminister Kitchens apologise for any inconvenience this technical issue may cause our customers and assure them that we take this matter very seriously. 'We are working closely with our technical teams and have implemented additional measures to prevent similar issues from occurring in the future. 'No other Pieminister products, or batches of these products, are affected.' The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is warning parents not to let children under the age of 7 drink iced slushie drinks this summer if they contain glycerol. An FSA board meeting this week endorsed the advice and called for clear communication to parents and carers to help manage glycerol intake in young children. The FSA said: 'Slush ice drinks can contain glycerol as a substitute for sugar to prevent them from freezing solid. 'Consumed at high levels, glycerol can cause very low blood sugar levels and unconsciousness in young children. The FSA Board meeting begins today at 9am in Birmingham. Here's the agenda and meeting papers for today's meeting: Here's where you can watch it live: 1/2 — Food Standards Agency (@foodgov) June 18, 2025 'Businesses are advised to only add glycerol at the minimum quantity technically necessary to achieve the slush effect. 'While glycerol is found in some other foods, it is added at much lower quantities than in slush ice drinks.' Lidl is recalling one of its products because it may contain pieces of metal. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has warned anyone who has purchased the recalled item not to eat it. The recall affects Lidl's Harvest Basket Hash Browns. The impacts hash browns come in packs of 750g, have a best before date of May 24, 2027, and a batch code of 5144L. Thursday 12 June: @LidlGB recalls Harvest Basket Hash Browns because they may contain pieces of metal #FoodAlert — Food Standards Agency (@foodgov) June 12, 2025 An FSA spokesman said: 'Lidl GB is recalling the above product. A point of sale notice will be displayed in all retail stores that are selling this product. 'This notice explains to customers why the product is being recalled and tells them what to do if they have bought the product. 'If you have bought the above product, do not eat it. 'Instead, return it to your nearest store for a full refund. For further information contact customer care on or 0203 966 5566.' Asda, Matalan and Amazon recalls as shoppers told 'stop using them immediately' FSA issues 'do not eat' warning over chocolate that may be a 'food safety risk' 'Do not eat' warning issued as 'unsafe to eat' sweets recalled A Lidl spokesman added: 'If you have bought the above product we advise you not to eat it. 'Customers are asked to return this product to the nearest store where a full refund will be given. 'We apologise for any inconvenience caused and thank you for your cooperation.' Shoppers who purchased some Dubai-style chocolate products have been warned the food may not meet Food Standards Agency (FSA) standards. Some of the imported Dubai-style products could pose a risk to consumers with allergies, the food safety watchdog warned. Those with food allergies should be careful when buying the popular chocolate as some imported products may not be intended for sale in the UK and could lack a full ingredients list or allergen labelling, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) said. The watchdog said it had identified a number of products that posed a health risk to consumers with allergies. Some of these products may also contain additives and colours which are not allowed on the UK market, it added. The FSA said it was surveying and sampling the products to work out the scale of the issue, and working with allergy charities in the meantime to raise awareness of the risk with consumers. It said that 'most' Dubai-style chocolate available in UK shops was safe. The FSA said: 'If in doubt, don't buy it and report any concerns to your local authority.' By law, labels must list all ingredients and clearly highlight any of the 14 regulated allergens. The FSA advised consumers to look out for labelling details to check whether a product is intended for sale here. By law, products made to UK standards should have labels in English containing the name of the food – for example, milk chocolate with pistachio paste filling – a list of ingredients with allergens emphasised, the weight of the food in grams and a best before or use by date. Labels must also include the name and address of the UK or EU business responsible for the product information. If the food is not from the UK or EU, the name and address of the importer must be included. Multiple Jolly Rancher sweets sold in the UK have been recalled as they contain products that make them 'unsafe to eat' and they do not comply with UK laws, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) has warned. Four Jolly Rancher products have been recalled, as the FSA has told anyone who has bought them not to eat them. The affected products are the Jolly Rancher Hard Candy, Jolly Rancher 'Misfits' Gummies, Jolly Rancher Hard Candy Fruity 2 in 1, and the Jolly Rancher Berry Gummies. The recall covers all pack sizes, batch codes, and best before dates of the sweets listed above. They contain Mineral Oil Aromatic Hydrocarbons, (MOAH), and Mineral Oil Saturated Hydrocarbons, (MOSH), making them unsafe to eat. Wednesday 11 June 2025. Food Alert "For Action": To Consumers who have purchased and Food Businesses who have purchased and sold Jolly Rancher products manufactured by The Hershey Company #FoodAlert — Food Standards Agency (@foodgov) June 11, 2025 The FSA said: 'For consumers, don't buy them, and if you've eaten these products, there should be no immediate cause for concern, as food safety risk is low, but don't eat any more. 'These products contain mineral oil, which isn't allowed in food in the UK and may pose a food safety risk if consumed regularly over a sustained period of time.' The FSA said that the Hershey Company, who produces Jolly Rancher sweets, had been working collaboratively to remove unsafe products from the UK markets. It added that while the parent company had decided to stop supplying the UK market in 2024 some businesses still continued to import the products for sale in the UK. An FSA spokesman said: 'Although the levels consumers are exposed to are likely to be low, they may present a risk to health because they contain Mineral Oil Aromatic Hydrocarbons, (MOAH), and Mineral Oil Saturated Hydrocarbons, (MOSH). 'Consumption of the affected sweets is of toxicological concern, especially in younger age groups and where consumers eat a lot of the products or eat them regularly. 'MOAH can cause damage to DNA and has the potential to increase the risk of cancer, particularly if consumed in high quantities over a prolonged period of time. MOAH is a genotoxic carcinogen, therefore no exposure is without risk to human health. 'We are asking enforcement authorities to make immediate contact with businesses who may have been supplied with or received the affected products, and to take action to ensure that the non-compliant and potentially unsafe products are withdrawn from the market and where sold at retail, recalled. 'We are also asking the Local Authorities to inform the FSA of product recall and withdrawal actions. 'If you have bought any of the above products, do not eat them. Instead, dispose of them at home. 'If you are concerned, notify your Trading Standards department or environmental health department in the local authority you purchased it.' Popular chocolate bars sold at a number of UK supermarkets have been recalled as they may contain 'small stones'. Tony's Chocolonely is recalling certain batches of two of its chocolate products because of the 'potential presence of foreign objects'. The chocolate bars which may contain the small stones are the Dark Almond Sea Salt Bar 180g and the Everything Bar 180g. Only certain product codes of the chocolate are being recalled. (Image: Tony's Chocolonely) These are the Dark Almond Sea Salt Bar codes and best before dates affected: 162633 with a best before date of February 28, 2026 162614 with a best before date of February 28, 2026 163061 with a best before date of April 2, 2026 These are the Everything Bar codes and best before dates affected: 4331 with a best before date of November 26, 2025 4332 with a best before date of November 27, 2025 4333 with a best before date of November 28, 2025 A spokesman for Tony's Chocolonely UK said: 'We are extremely sorry to have to issue this recall, and for the inconvenience that this will cause people who purchased these products. 'Whilst the probability of a product being affected is low, we always put the safety and satisfaction of our consumers first and that is why we have made the decision to recall these products. 'We apologise to consumers and our partners for the impact this will have. 'This recall only affects these specific products and lot codes. All other Tony's Chocolonely products remain safe to consume and are not impacted. 'Do you have a bar with the impacted lot number(s)? Please don't eat the chocolate. Instead, we kindly ask you that you return the product to the store where you bought it for a refund or replacement.' Tesco has recalled one of its products from supermarket shelves across the UK because they may pose a health risk to customers. The supermarket giant has recalled one of its Tesco Free From Meal Kits because they contain undeclared soya. The presence of soya, not mentioned on the label, makes them a potential health risk for anyone with an allergy to soya. The affected products are the Tesco Free From Katsu Curry Meal Kit, affecting all products with a best before date up to and including December 12. Tony's Chocolonely recall as chocolate may contain stones 'Do not eat': Products sold at Tesco, Asda, Iceland and more recalled 'Stop using it immediately': Asda apology to customers as product recalled A spokesman for the Food Standards Agency (FSA) said: 'Tesco is recalling the above products from customers and has been advised to contact the relevant allergy support organisations, which will tell their members about the recall. 'The company has also issued a recall notice to its customers. 'These notices explain to customers why the product is being recalled and tell them what to do if they have bought the product. 'If you have bought the above products do not eat them. Instead, return them to any Tesco store for a full refund. For more information contact Tesco Customer Services on 0800 505 555.' Iceland has issued a 'do not eat' warning to its customers over a product that may contain pieces of plastic. The supermarket is recalling its Iceland Vegetable Lasagne because of the risk of plastic in the dish, making it unsafe to eat. The affected products have best before dates of July 23, 2026, and July 30, 2026. A spokesman for the Food Standards Agency also told anyone who has purchased the dish not to eat it. Wednesday 19 March. Iceland Foods Ltd recalls Iceland Vegetable Lasagne because it may contain pieces of plastic #FoodAlert — Food Standards Agency (@foodgov) March 19, 2025 They said: 'Iceland Foods Ltd is recalling the above product. The company has issued a recall notice to its customers. 'These notices explain to customers why the product is being recalled and tell them what to do if they have bought the product. 'If you have bought the above product do not eat it. Instead, return it to the store from where it was bought for a full refund. For more information, please call 0800 328 0800.' An Iceland spokesman added: 'We are taking the precautionary measure of recalling the dates codes of the above product because it may contain hard pieces of plastic making it unsafe to eat. 'Only the best before date codes listed in this notice are affected. 'If you have purchased any of the above product, DO NOT eat it.' A popular breakfast choice sold at Tesco, Ocado, Amazon and other outlets has been recalled because it may contain insects. Rude Health Foods Ltd is recalling its Rude Health Chocolate Crunch Granola because of the possible presence of insects. The affected product is the 400g box of granola with a best before date of October 24. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has warned anyone who has purchased the granola not to eat it but return it to wherever they bought it for a full refund. Thursday 20 March - @rudehealth recalls Rude Health Chocolate Crunch Granola because of the possible presence of insects #FoodAlert — Food Standards Agency (@foodgov) March 20, 2025 A spokesman said: 'The product listed above might contain insects, which may make them unsafe to eat. 'Rude Health Foods Ltd is recalling the above product. Point of sale notices will be displayed in all retail stores that are selling this product. 'These notices explain to customers why the product is being recalled and tell them what to do if they have bought the product. 'If you have bought the above product do not eat it. Instead, return it to your local store for a refund. For further information, please contact Rude Health Foods Ltd at hello@ Iceland 'do not eat' warning as product may contain 'hard pieces of plastic' Holiday warning as mosquito bite leaves student paralysed for a month AA issues roundabout warning to drivers as millions risk fine for common mistake A Rude Health Foods spokesman added: 'No other batches of the chocolate crunch granola or other Rude Health products are affected by this recall. 'If you have bought the above product we advise you do not consumer it. 'We sincerely regret any inconvenience caused to our customers.' If there is a problem with a food product that means it should not be sold, then it might be 'withdrawn' (taken off the shelves) or 'recalled' (when customers are asked to return the product). The FSA issues Product Withdrawal Information Notices and Product Recall Information Notices to let consumers and local authorities know about problems associated with food. In some cases, a 'Food Alert for Action' is issued. This provides local authorities with details of specific actions to be taken on behalf of consumers.
BBC News
12 hours ago
- Sport
- BBC News
When is the Women's Euros 2025?
Euro 2025 is finally here, with 16 teams from across Europe ready to showdown!The 2023 Women's World Cup ended in heartbreak for England's Lionesses, losing out in the final to Spain - but will they fare better this time around? And which of the home nations has qualified for the first time? Find out all this and more with this article from Bitesize! Switzerland will be the host nation for Euro 2025, marking the first time they've played host to a major women's sporting event on this will be played right across the country, with the tournament kicking off in Thun and coming to a close at St-Jakob Park, in other host cities include St Gallen, Zurich, Lucerne, Bern, Sion and Geneva. Euro 2025 kicks off on Wednesday 2 July, as Iceland face off with Finland at the Stockhorn Arena in Thun. The game will kick off at 5pm UK time, with hosts Switzerland taking on Norway later that group stage of the tournament will continue on through to 13 July, with the quarter-finals beginning on July 16 - all leading up to the final on Sunday 27 July. 16 teams will compete for the crown of Euro 2025 champions this summer, including two of the home nations - one of them for the first time!The nations who qualified are: Iceland, Finland, Switzerland, Norway, Belgium, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Denmark, Sweden, Germany, Poland, Wales, Netherlands, France and teams will be split evenly across four groups, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the quarter-finals. Euro 2025 marks the Euros debut of the Wales women's national football team, with Rhian Wilkinson's side joining England in Group will kick off their tournament in Lucerne, taking on Netherlands on Saturday 5 July at 5pm UK time. England will begin their campaign later that day, facing off against France at 8pm UK teams will play their second match on Wednesday 9 July, with England playing Netherlands in Zurich, and Wales matching up against France in St their final group stage game, England and Wales will come face to face with one another, kicking off in St Gallen at 8pm UK time on Sunday 13 July. The first official UEFA Women's Euro took place between 1982 and 1984, with 16 teams across Europe coming together to compete for the trophy. England, Scotland, Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland all took part - alongside nations like France, Italy and Portugal, amongst competition's first game took place on 18 August 1982, with Sweden comfortably beating out Finland in a 6-0 final took place in 1984, with England facing off against Sweden over a two-leg final. The Swedes beat England on home turf, before an England win at Kenilworth Road sent the final to a penalty unsurprisingly, England lost on penalties, with Sweden becoming the first ever Women's Euro champions! England go into the 2025 Euros as reigning champions, with the Lionesses roaring to victory over Germany in the final of Euro 2022. Chloe Kelly's goal in extra-time marked an end to over 50 years of hurt for England's men and women's national hold the record for the most number of Women's Euro titles, having won eight of the 13 that have taken place as of this year. Other winners include Sweden, Netherlands and Norway with the possibility of a further nation being added to those ranks this summer! The first Women's EurosEverything you need to know about Euro 2025Ella Powell: How my teachers helped kickstart an international football careerSix things you need to know about women's football
Forbes
13 hours ago
- Forbes
Iceland Unveils Festival For First Total Solar Eclipse Since 1954
A total solar eclipse festival is scheduled for August 12-15, 2026, at Hellissandur on Iceland's ... More Snæfellsnes Peninsula — just a short walk from Ingjaldsholl church. Famed for its volcanoes, waterfalls and displays of the northern lights, Iceland will, on Aug. 12, 2026, host another wonder of nature — its first total solar eclipse since 1954. It was announced today by organizers IMXP and Secret Solstice that it will also see its first eclipse festival, an immersive four-day "leave-no-trace" experience for 3,333 eclipse chasers to be held on western Iceland's iconic Snæfellsnes Peninsula. The positioning of the 'Iceland Eclipse Festival,' slated for August 12–15, 2026, close to Hellissandur is no accident. At the western tip of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, it will experience 2 minutes and 7 seconds of totality, during which the skies will darken, and the sun's tenuous corona will become visible to the naked eye. That's within a few seconds of the maximum totality possible in the path of totality in Iceland, which encompasses the Westfjords, Snæfellsnes and the Reykjanes Peninsula, home to the country's capital, Reykjavík. Iceland's rare totality will open the event, which festival organizers say will feature live music, large-scale art installations, talks, rituals and wellness offerings. There will be two main music stages as well as areas for speakers, presentations and panels. It's inspired by Burning Man, Art Basel, SXSW and TED. "As someone who calls this land home, it is incredibly meaningful to return with a project as rare and special as Iceland Eclipse," said Fred Ólafsson, Founder of Secret Solstice. "This partnership is a chance to co-create something truly memorable for both Icelanders and the global community during one of the most extraordinary celestial events of our time." Iceland Eclipse Festival will be held from Aug. 12-15, 2026 in Snæfellsnes, Iceland. Only 3,333 passes will be sold, organizers confirmed, emphasizing the event's curated, intimate nature. A portion of tickets will be reserved for Icelandic residents. Visitors will be able to choose from tent camping, glamping, RV sites or private local accommodations. Tickets are expected to go on sale in July, with pricing and package details released exclusively to those who sign up via They will include standard festival passes that include basic camping, as well as a premium Odinn package presented by Secret Solstice. The Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often referred to as 'Iceland in Miniature,' is renowned for its diverse geology, minimal light pollution, and its prominent place in literature — Jules Verne's Journey to the Center of the Earth begins beneath the region's iconic Snæfellsjökull volcano. The site is located near Hellissandur's colorful mural-lined streets and within walking distance of the iconic Ingjaldshólskirkja church. Elsewhere on Snæfellsnes, there are natural hot springs, lava fields, black sand beaches, the iconic Budakirkja (Black Church), Kirkjufell Mountain, and Vatnshellir cave within Snæfellsjökull National Park. The path of totality sweeps near Iceland and over Spain on August 12, 2026. The Aug. 12, 2026, eclipse is the next total solar eclipse visible from Earth. A path of totality stretching 183 to 190 miles wide will cross over parts of Russian Siberia, Greenland, Iceland and northern Spain. Roughly 15 million people live within that path, though only 400,000 hundred thousand reside in Iceland, making it a rare and remote vantage point. Wishing you clear skies and wide eyes.
Irish Times
18 hours ago
- Irish Times
French father and daughter killed in Iceland had been living in Ireland for 10 years
In Iceland's capital Reykjavík, the longest day of the year is just around the corner. The city is experiencing the perpetual daylight that will last for weeks. At the old harbour, the five-star Reykjavík Edition hotel is bustling. This is a stylish, redeveloped area, catering for tourists as well as visitors to the nearby concert hall. But the Nordic city, reputed for its safety, is reeling from a double homicide that has left residents shocked. Just after 7am last Saturday, a man aged 58 and a woman aged about 30 were found dead at the Reykjavík hotel after sustaining stab wounds. Police also found a woman aged 56 who also had serious stab wounds. READ MORE The victims were the husband and daughter of the woman, who is suspected of murdering them. Their names have not yet been released, which is normal policing protocol in Iceland. The family was French, but had been living in Dublin for about 10 years, said Icelandic police officer, superintendent Ævar Pálmi Pálmason, who is leading the investigation. Icelandic police have been working closely with An Garda Síochána , according to Pálmason. The family of the deceased have been informed. The suspect is still in hospital, where she is receiving medical treatment for her wounds. She was questioned on Wednesday by police. 'The next steps are to keep gathering information and evidence, and co-operating with both French and Irish authorities,' said Pálmason. The Reykjavík Edition hotel where an Irish-based French father and daughter were killed last weekend. Photograph: Karen McHugh Icelandic police have 12 weeks to press charges, if the investigation leads to a prosecution. A source familiar with the investigation said that police had seized a knife from the scene which they are examining forensically as they believe it is the weapon used to kill the father and daughter. One line of inquiry being investigated is that the two were attacked as they slept. Just more than a fifth bigger than the island of Ireland but with a population of only 389,000, Iceland is known for its low crime rate. There were no more than three murders per year between 2010 and 2019 and no murders at all in 2003, 2006 and 2008, but the rate has been increasing, with eight murders in 2024 and six people killed so far this year. At the clothing store GK Reykjavík, close to the hotel, Birkir Már Hafberg and Guðrún Z Jónsdóttir discussed the events. 'I was actually working that day here. It's very shocking – because also, the Edition is a very high-class hotel,' said Jónsdóttir. Saturday was an otherwise joyful day in the Icelandic calendar. Almost 3,000 people graduated from the University of Iceland that morning. 'I was at a graduation party. It was like a whole conversation – the whole party kind of stopped, almost, and we were all talking about it,' said Hafberg. 'It's not something that we're used to. It's just... out of place.' 'Especially because it's a family tragedy,' said Jónsdóttir. 'It's very sad.' The Reykjavík Edition hotel where an Irish-based French father and daughter were killed last weekend. Photograph: Karen McHugh Across the hall in Hafnartorg Gallery is a trendy food court adjacent to the Edition hotel. 'In Mexico, you hear about these things all the time, so you kind of build a thick skin, but not here,' said chef Jeronimo Cadena, who is originally from Mexico. 'I was shocked. The fact that it's so close by and in Iceland, you don't expect those things to happen here. It doesn't happen regularly, this kind of violent crime.' Guðmundur Ágúst Heiðarsson was in the Reykjavik Edition late Friday night, attending a party at the hotel's well-known rooftop bar. 'Just to be in that area, and to be walking away from that area at the time, it is a shock. This is very unusual to see in Iceland,' he said. James Long, a tourist from New York visiting Iceland. Photograph: Karen McHugh James Long, a tourist from New York, came to Iceland to take part in the city's Midnight Sun Run which takes place to celebrate the summer solstice. 'When I'm on vacation I check out from the news entirely,' he said. 'It's just one of those breaks from real life. It's terrible to hear about this.' – Additional reporting by Conor Gallagher
