Dubai is home to Aquaventure Waterpark, an expansive aquatic destination located at Atlantis, The Palm resort on Palm Jumeirah Island. This waterpark spans 17 hectares and features a remarkable collection of 105 slides, rides, and attractions, making it one of the largest and most thrilling waterparks in the world. Visitors can enjoy a variety of adrenaline-pumping experiences, including high-speed drops, twisting turns, and unique water coasters. Among the world record-breaking slides are "Shockwave," the world's longest family water coaster, and "Odyssey of Terror," the tallest waterslide featuring a double tornado wave. These attractions cater to thrill-seekers looking for unforgettable excitement. One of the park’s iconic rides is the Leap of Faith, a near-vertical slide that plunges from almost 30 meters through a clear tunnel surrounded by a lagoon filled with sharks and rays, offering a breathtaking and exhilarating view. The waterpark also provides a wide range of family-friendly options, including a mile-long river ride, wave pool, rapids, and a dedicated children’s play area filled with tunnels, slides, and climbing frames. For those wanting a break from the action, the park includes a serene 1-kilometer private beach, perfect for relaxation and sunset walks. Additional activities such as zip-lining across the park and swimming safely with marine life add to the diverse offerings. Guests staying at Atlantis, The Palm have complimentary access, while daily passes are available for other visitors, making Aquaventure a must-visit destination for water adventure enthusiasts in Dubai. <br /> <br /> Floating 300 meters high in a tethered balloon nearby, visitors are treated to stunning, unobstructed panoramic views of Dubai’s sparkling skyline, adding another unique perspective to the city’s iconic attractions.

6/29/2025, 5:35:00 PM

Wrapped in multicolored flags and waving protest signs, revelers worldwide have come together throughout June for Pride events—a vibrant, monthlong celebration of the LGBTQ+ community. Pride Month is a time to honor the diversity, resilience, and achievements of LGBTQ+ individuals while also spotlighting the ongoing struggle for equal rights and social inclusion. Across cities such as San Francisco and Los Angeles, iconic Pride parades light up streets with colorful floats, energetic performances, and cultural festivities. These events not only foster joy and community spirit but also pay tribute to the historical activism that laid the groundwork for today’s freedoms. In San Francisco, city leaders and advocates commemorate Pride with ceremonies that blend celebration and solemn remembrance, highlighting symbols like the pink triangle—a marker of both persecution during the Holocaust and strength in resistance. Yet Pride is far from just a party. In many places, including Washington, D.C., where World Pride recently concluded, rallies and protest marches underscored the urgency of defending LGBTQ+ rights amid political challenges. Activists carried signs reading “Fight back” and “We will not be erased,” voicing opposition to policies threatening transgender protections and broader community acceptance. The dual nature of Pride—as joyful celebration and defiant protest—remains central to its spirit. It serves to unite people globally in both honoring LGBTQ+ identities and mobilizing against discrimination, ensuring that the fight for justice and inclusion continues with renewed energy every year.<br /> <br />

6/29/2025, 5:20:27 PM

The FIA has imposed a three-place grid penalty on Mercedes rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli for his collision with Red Bull’s Max Verstappen during the opening lap of the Austrian Grand Prix. The incident occurred at Turn 3, where Antonelli locked up his rear brakes and collided with Verstappen’s car, resulting in both drivers retiring from the race. The stewards investigated the crash and found Antonelli fully responsible, also assigning him two penalty points on his racing license. Antonelli admitted to locking up his rear wheels while braking at his usual point but explained that he had to momentarily release the brakes to avoid another car ahead, Liam Lawson. This evasive action caused him to lose grip on the dirty inside line, preventing him from decelerating effectively to avoid the collision with Verstappen. Despite the high stakes and the involvement of the reigning world champion, Verstappen responded with understanding, acknowledging that every driver makes mistakes and expressing confidence in Antonelli’s talent and potential to learn from the error. The penalty will affect Antonelli’s starting position for the upcoming British Grand Prix at Silverstone, where he will drop three grid places. This setback comes after a promising podium finish in Canada, marking a challenging moment for the young Italian driver. The FIA’s decision underscores the importance of driver responsibility and safety, even in the highly competitive and fast-paced environment of Formula 1 racing. Antonelli’s response and future performances will be closely watched as he aims to regain momentum in the season.

6/29/2025, 5:20:00 PM

Lionel Messi and Inter Miami faced Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in the round of 16 at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, marking a high-profile reunion for Messi against his former club. This match was not only a clash of teams but also an emotional encounter, featuring several former Barcelona players now on Inter Miami, including Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, and Javier Mascherano, who had previously won the treble together under coach Luis Enrique, now leading PSG. Inter Miami had impressed by remaining unbeaten in the group stage, notably shocking FC Porto, but standing against the freshly crowned European champions was a daunting challenge. From the start, PSG dominated the match with high pressing, superior possession, and rapid transitions. By halftime, PSG had secured a commanding 4-0 lead, thanks to goals from João Neves (who scored twice), Achraf Hakimi, and an own goal by Tomás Avilés. Despite Inter Miami’s efforts to mount a comeback in the second half, PSG controlled the game comfortably, limiting Messi and his teammates from creating significant chances. The defeat ended Inter Miami's inspiring run in the tournament, but they left a mark showcasing their progress since Messi's arrival. The encounter highlighted the gap between the MLS side and the reigning European champions while allowing a poignant reunion of stars reunited on opposite sides. Messi entered this contest as an underdog, reflecting both his personal journey and Inter Miami’s growing stature on the international stage. PSG’s win ensured they advanced to face the winner of Flamengo versus Bayern Munich, continuing their pursuit of Club World Cup glory. <br /> <br /> This match also underscored the global nature of club football today, where players, coaches, and rivalries transcend leagues and continents. Inter Miami’s journey ended, but the experience gained and the exposure at such a prestigious tournament bode well for the club’s future ambitions. Meanwhile, PSG’s dominant performance reinforced their status as one of the top teams in the world, blending experienced stars and tactical prowess. The Club World Cup has provided an exciting platform for such elite contests and memorable reunions in 2025.

6/29/2025, 5:15:00 PM

According to recent reports from Sky Sport and the Italian news outlet Gazzetta, Jannik Sinner has parted ways with his athletic trainer Marco Panichi and physiotherapist Ulises Badio, just days before the start of Wimbledon 2025. This decision comes as a surprise with no official explanation provided for the split. Panichi and Badio had joined Sinner’s team less than a year ago, replacing Umberto Ferrara and Giacomo Naldi after the controversy surrounding Sinner's Clostebol doping case earlier in 2024.<br /><br /> Both Panichi and Badio were notable additions, having previously worked with Novak Djokovic, which raised expectations for strengthening Sinner’s physical conditioning and recovery. Their arrival followed Sinner’s three-month suspension resulting from the doping incident. Despite this setback, Sinner performed strongly last season, reaching the finals of the Italian Open and the French Open, though he lost both to Carlos Alcaraz. In preparation for Wimbledon, Sinner chose a lighter grass-court schedule, participating only in the Halle Open, where he was unexpectedly beaten by Alexander Bublik.<br /><br /> The departure of Panichi and Badio just before such a major tournament raises questions about the internal dynamics of Sinner’s team. Speculation suggests reasons could include personal matters, such as a bereavement in Panichi’s family, or professional differences concerning training or media commitments. Currently, Sinner is in London preparing with coaches Simone Vagnozzi and Darren Cahill, alongside osteopath Andrea Cipolla. This sudden change in his support staff will be closely watched as Sinner aims to win his first Wimbledon title and maintain his position as ATP World No. 1.<br /><br />

6/27/2025, 5:26:00 PM

This summer's reading selection offers a diverse and captivating mix of books that cater to a wide range of interests. Among the highlights is an epic family saga that promises profound emotional depth and sweeping storytelling, inviting readers into the complexities and bonds that shape family dynamics. For fans of science fiction, a thrilling trilogy awaits, blending imaginative storytelling with futuristic themes that explore human and technological frontiers. This series is sure to engross those who enjoy immersive world-building and speculative narratives. Travel enthusiasts and those drawn to adventure will appreciate a poignant journey along the Delaware River, offering rich descriptions of the natural landscape intertwined with personal or historical reflections that deepen the experience. On a more analytical note, a history of military hubris provides an insightful examination of past conflicts, shedding light on the consequences of overconfidence in warfare and its impact on societies. The collection also includes two new books that delve into the lives and minds of the people behind artificial intelligence. These works explore the human stories, ethical questions, and innovations driving AI technology today, making them essential reads for anyone interested in the future of technology and society. Lastly, current scientific literature on gut biomes rounds out the summer’s selection, presenting cutting-edge research on how our internal ecosystems influence health, behavior, and disease. This topic is increasingly recognized for its crucial role in medicine and wellness. This array of books ensures that readers can enjoy a summer filled with thrilling fiction, enlightening history, compelling science, and thought-provoking narratives about humanity and technology, making it a truly enriching reading season. <br /> <br /> Overall, these offerings reflect the vibrant literary landscape of 2025, where storytelling and knowledge intersect to provide entertainment, education, and reflection for readers of all kinds. Whether seeking adventure, understanding, or inspiration, this summer’s mix promises something memorable for everyone.

6/27/2025, 5:20:00 PM

The last few days have seen a flurry of significant startup funding activities, highlighting robust investor confidence across various tech sectors. One of the standout stories is Clearspeed, a New York-based AI startup focused on voice-based risk assessment, which secured a massive $60 million Series D round led by Align Private Capital. This brings Clearspeed's total funding to $110 million, which it plans to deploy to scale its AI-driven voice authentication platform specially targeting insurance and government sectors for fraud detection and identity verification. Meanwhile, Newark’s Nascent Materials, a company developing cost-efficient and eco-friendly battery cathode manufacturing processes, raised $2.3 million in a seed round led by SOSV. The funds will accelerate scaling their production facilities and bolster U.S.-based battery supply chains, a critical area for sustainable energy solutions. Additional notable rounds include Clarium, an AI startup specializing in healthcare supply chain automation, which raised $27 million in a Series A round to enhance hospital operations and cut costs significantly. This startup is backed by multiple investors including General Catalyst and Kaiser Permanente Ventures. In a broader context, the AI sector continues to attract record investments with companies like Snorkel AI and TensorWave closing $100 million rounds earlier this year, exemplifying the momentum in AI-driven innovation. These recent funding rounds underscore a dynamic and rapidly evolving startup ecosystem where advancements in AI, clean tech, and health tech are drawing massive capital to fuel growth, scale operations, and drive technological breakthroughs globally. The activity signals strong investor belief in these sectors’ future potential.

6/27/2025, 5:05:00 PM

From New York to London, this week’s red carpet events showcased an array of breathtaking and unforgettable celebrity fashion moments. Leading the pack was Scarlett Johansson, who captivated audiences at the *Jurassic World Rebirth* premiere in New York wearing a delicate, off-white lace cocktail dress with frill details that perfectly combined elegance and modern flair. Meanwhile, Priyanka Chopra-Jonas and Nick Jonas emerged as a power couple at Emilio’s Ballato in NoHo, New York. Priyanka stunned in a sophisticated red wine wrap dress, while Nick complemented her in a sharp grey suit, together embodying contemporary red carpet chic. In London, the fashion scene dazzled just as brightly. Stella McCartney made a strong style statement at the NAT Launch Party with a halterneck red midi dress featuring long sleeves and a distinctive tie detail on the front, blending classic and avant-garde elements seamlessly. The Serpentine Gallery summer party was graced by Cate Blanchett, who looked like she stepped off a film set in a corseted midi dress adorned with shells, paired with frill-accented heels, underscoring her reputation as a red carpet icon. Other notable looks included Charlize Theron’s edgy fishnet catsuit and tuxedo jacket combination at The Old Guard 2 premiere in Los Angeles, and Uma Thurman’s ethereal champagne-hued Prada ensemble. Hailey Bieber embraced a more casual yet chic vibe in polka dot capris and a sleek black crop top while stepping out in New York’s West Village. These fashion moments highlight a spectrum from classic glamour and couture to bold, modern street style, reflecting the diverse moods and aesthetics of the global celebrity circuit this week. The red carpets of New York, London, and beyond have unquestionably been a must-watch showcase of style inspiration and sartorial elegance.

6/27/2025, 5:04:00 PM

Rachell “Valkyrae” Hofstetter, a prominent gaming streamer, is expanding her creative ventures through her manga and anime-focused media company, HiHi Studios. The studio has launched a new sci-fi thriller Webtoon series titled "Bad Influence" in collaboration with Otherly Productions. This series marks HiHi Studios' entry into serialized digital comics, blending Valkyrae’s passion for emotionally engaging storytelling inspired by manga and anime with a futuristic narrative. "Bad Influence" is set in Weisshorn, a dystopian surveillance city filled with propaganda, distractions, and the omnipresent control of a charismatic dictator named Oswald. The city’s cheerful facade, with mascots on every screen and catchy jingles looping constantly, masks a harsh reality where citizens are kept docile. The story focuses on Nel, a rebellious and haunted young woman who refuses to accept the fabricated reality sold to the masses. As Nel joins a rebel gang aiming to dismantle the system, she uncovers deeper, unsettling glitches in reality, including ghosts and hidden truths that challenge the very fabric of her world. The narrative explores themes of control, resistance, and reality’s fragility, delivered with high-energy and emotional intensity. The series is illustrated by Barcelona-based artist Jor Ros and co-written by Orson James and Roman Calais, ensuring a collaborative creativity behind the project. The first three episodes are already available on Webtoon Originals with options for readers to unlock additional content. Valkyrae has been actively involved in the creative process, emphasizing her desire to create stories that evoke strong emotions such as sadness, anger, and reflection, targeting fans of deep, heartfelt storytelling within sci-fi and anime aesthetics. HiHi Studios and Valkyrae are enthusiastic about this new creative direction, promising engaging content for manga and anime enthusiasts.

6/26/2025, 4:00:00 PM

Two of Europe's football giants, Manchester City and Juventus, are set to clash in a highly anticipated Group G showdown of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. The match, taking place on Thursday afternoon at Orlando’s Camping World Stadium, is pivotal as both teams enter with six points each from their initial group matches, with Juventus holding the top spot by a single goal difference. This fixture promises high stakes as the outcome will determine who finishes first in the group. For Manchester City, managed by Pep Guardiola, the path is clear: a win secures top spot, allowing them to remain in Orlando for their next match in the last 16, scheduled for the early hours of July 1. A draw or loss means they will finish as runners-up and move on to play at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium later that same day. Juventus, meanwhile, aims to maintain their group lead and replicate their recent strong performances, having scored 14 goals in their last four matches across all competitions. The match also has historical significance, being the eighth official encounter between the two clubs, with Juventus holding the upper hand in their past meetings. Guardiola’s Manchester City arrives with an impressive FIFA Club World Cup record, having won every match they have played in the tournament so far, while Juventus comes off a notable scoring streak fueled by players like Kenan Yildiz and Andrea Cambiaso. Fans can expect a thrilling contest as these two elite teams battle not only for group supremacy but also for a favorable position in the knockout rounds of this prestigious tournament that features the best clubs from across the globe. <br /> <br /> The clash highlights the global scale of the tournament, held in the United States from June 14 to July 13, which brings together champions from all six continental confederations in a format mirroring the FIFA World Cup. The 2025 edition features 32 teams, making this match a marquee encounter in a fiercely competitive group stage. Both clubs are highly motivated to claim first place to optimize their routes forward, adding an extra layer of intensity to an already compelling fixture set to captivate football fans worldwide.

6/26/2025, 4:00:00 PM

Mariska Hargitay’s new documentary, *My Mom Jayne*, offers a deeply personal exploration of the life and legacy of her mother, Hollywood icon Jayne Mansfield. Directed by Hargitay in her feature film directorial debut, the documentary delves into Mansfield’s vibrant but tragically short career, as well as the complex and often painful family secrets surrounding Hargitay’s own identity. Mansfield, who died in a car accident at the young age of 34, left behind a legacy both glamorous and complicated, which Hargitay seeks to reclaim and understand through this film. The documentary is not only a tribute to Mansfield’s career and influence in Hollywood but also a heartfelt journey for Hargitay herself as she confronts the hidden truths about her biological father. Having been only three years old when Mansfield passed away, Hargitay describes the film as a "labor of love and longing," a search to connect with the mother she never truly knew and to grasp a part of her own identity previously unowned. With the support of her family, who agreed to appear in the film despite initial hesitations, Hargitay takes the opportunity to share her story on her own terms. The documentary premiered at the Cannes Film Festival’s Classics section in May 2025 and is set for release on HBO in late June 2025. Through *My Mom Jayne*, Hargitay expresses gratitude for the chance to reveal the truth and reclaim her mother’s story with honesty and compassion.<br /><br />This intimate film stands as both a celebration and a revelation, shining light on the enduring impact of Jayne Mansfield’s life and the personal journey of Mariska Hargitay to uncover her origins and identity.

6/26/2025, 4:00:00 PM

The GENIUS Act (Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins of 2025) has become the first significant crypto legislation passed by the Senate under President Donald Trump's administration. The bill passed with bipartisan support, including votes from 18 Democrats, despite some opposition tied to Trump’s own interests in cryptocurrency ventures. This industry-backed legislation specifically targets stablecoins—cryptocurrencies pegged to assets like the U.S. dollar—and aims to establish a regulatory framework to integrate them into the U.S. financial system. The GENIUS Act defines payment stablecoins as digital assets used for payments, redeemable at a fixed value, and designed to maintain price stability, generally pegged to $1. Unlike traditional payment methods such as cash or cards, stablecoin transactions under this framework would settle almost instantaneously, operate 24/7, bypass intermediaries, and only be limited by how many stablecoins the payer holds. Proponents say this could legitimize stablecoins as mainstream financial tools and enhance digital payment systems. However, critics warn that the bill has critical flaws. The legislation does not sufficiently address potential conflicts of interest, highlighted by Trump’s crypto ties, nor does it adequately protect consumers against systemic risks. For example, it leaves gaps in how reserves backing stablecoins are regulated and risks creating vulnerabilities that could precipitate a financial crisis if stablecoins were to collapse. Despite these concerns, the House of Representatives is expected to pass similar legislation soon, which would send the bill to President Trump for signature, marking a transformative but contentious era for digital assets in the U.S. Should you participate? Engagement with stablecoins and related digital assets now comes with clearer regulatory visibility yet entails risks linked to unresolved safeguards. Potential users should stay informed, assess their risk tolerance, and consider the evolving regulatory landscape before participating in stablecoin markets.<br /><br />The GENIUS Act represents a watershed moment, signaling both opportunities for innovation in payments and warnings about the need for robust consumer protections and regulatory clarity in the fast-evolving crypto space.

6/26/2025, 4:00:00 PM

Benfica take on Bayern Munich today in a decisive Group C encounter at the FIFA Club World Cup in Charlotte, North Carolina. While Benfica are aiming to secure their spot in the last 16, Bayern Munich have already confirmed their progress to the knockout stage, giving the German giants the luxury of managing their lineup and intensity. This match, held at the impressive Bank of America Stadium, offers an intriguing subplot as Benfica must go for a result to guarantee their own advancement in the expanded 32-team tournament. For Benfica, the challenge is clear: they need to perform at their highest level against a Bayern Munich side that is not only technically superior but also familiar with Benfica’s style, having met them several times in recent European competitions, most recently in the UEFA Champions League group stage in November 2024. Historically, Bayern have dominated these meetings, with multiple victories by wide margins, but in the new format of the Club World Cup, surprises are possible as teams adapt to the unique pressures of the tournament and travel to the United States. Viewers eager to follow the match live have several options for streaming and TV coverage. Major broadcasters and online platforms are providing in-depth coverage, including live commentary, highlights, and expert analysis, ensuring fans around the world can enjoy the action as it unfolds. The availability of English, Portuguese, and German-language streams caters to the diverse fanbases of both clubs. The fixture not only presents an opportunity for Benfica to make a statement but also for global audiences to witness a meeting of two of Europe’s most prestigious clubs on American soil. With the prospect of prize money reaching $1 billion for the competition, every match carries added significance, raising the stakes for Benfica’s quest for advancement and potential glory. <br /> <br /> Spectators in the stadium and watching at home are set to experience a showcase of elite footballing talent. The game will test Benfica’s resolve and tactical flexibility, while Bayern Munich may rotate their squad, offering chances to emerging players. For both clubs, the match is a stepping stone—either towards the knockout phase or further preparation for bigger battles ahead. Regardless of the outcome, the clash between Benfica and Bayern Munich promises to capture the imagination of football fans worldwide, providing a highlight of the group stage at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025.

6/24/2025, 6:01:00 PM

Bobby Sherman, the beloved teen idol of the 1960s and ’70s known for his winsome smile and fashionable shaggy mop top, has died at the age of 81. Sherman rose to fame with his bubblegum pop hits such as “Little Woman,” “Julie, Do Ya Love Me,” “La La La (If I Had You),” and “Easy Come, Easy Go,” all of which reached the top 10 on Billboard's Hot 100 and became certified gold sellers. His cheerful, catchy tunes helped define an era of pop music alongside acts like the Archies and Tommy Roe. Sherman’s boyish charm and sweet vocals made him a heartthrob on the West Coast, and he was a prominent figure not only in music but also on television throughout his career.<br /> <br /> Sherman’s death was announced by his wife, Brigitte Poublon Sherman, through actor John Stamos’ social media. She shared heartfelt words about his courage and grace over their 29 years of marriage, describing him as brave, gentle, and full of light. In recent years, Sherman dedicated himself to service, working as an EMT and trainer with the LAPD, saving lives in a quiet and selfless manner. Earlier this year, it was revealed that Sherman had been diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, and he passed away surrounded by family. He is survived by his wife, two sons, Tyler and Christopher, and six grandchildren. His legacy lives on through his music, laughter, and the impact he made both on and off the stage.

6/24/2025, 6:00:00 PM

From the bustling streets of New York to the glamorous venues of London, this week’s biggest events showcased some unforgettable red carpet moments from your favorite stars. The fashion scene has been alive with creativity and elegance, as celebrities brought out stunning ensembles that captured the attention of fans and critics alike. In New York, actress Scarlett Johansson turned heads at the *Jurassic World Rebirth* premiere with a delicate off-white lace cocktail dress that combined sophistication with a contemporary flair. Priyanka Chopra-Jonas and Nick Jonas were a picture of chic couple goals as they left Emilio's Ballato; Priyanka dazzled in a deep red wrap dress while Nick complemented her look in a sharp grey suit. Meanwhile, Hailey Bieber embraced a more playful vibe, sporting polka dot capri pants paired with heeled flip-flops and a sleek black crop top, effortlessly blending casual and cool styles. Across the Atlantic in London, Scarlett Johansson continued to impress in a custom Vivienne Westwood gown featuring a strapless neckline and corset-style bodice, perfectly suited to the *Jurassic World Rebirth* premiere’s star-studded atmosphere. The *F1: The Movie* premiere also sparked memorable fashion moments. Naomi Campbell captivated with a sparkling Dolce & Gabbana semi-sheer fringe-embellished gown, exuding timeless glamour. DJ Peggy Gou wowed in an Acne Studios Fall 2025 dress that combined a structured off-the-shoulder neckline with a daring slit, adding edge and allure to the evening’s styles. Other notable appearances included Tate McRae’s sleek black Balenciaga gown and Simone Ashley’s radiant gold ensemble at the same London premiere, proving this week was a showcase of bold and elegant fashion choices. From street style to high-profile premieres, the week’s red carpet moments have set a high bar for summer fashion, blending classic elegance with contemporary trends. <br /> <br /> Whether attending film premieres, music events, or fashion shows, these stars have once again demonstrated why their style remains the talk of the town across continents, as the season’s sartorial splendor continues to unfold.

6/24/2025, 5:59:00 PM