Hawaiian island, geologically among the oldest, known for its dramatic landscapes
Tripadvisor’s 2026 rankings highlight luxury hotels abroad while US residents face travel costs at home. Hawaii remains a premier gateway, Maui and the Big Island offer diverse experiences, and budget-conscious travelers seek value with subscription platforms.
Reef Capital Partners has secured $431 million in financing for the Coco Palms project in Kaua‘i, aiming for a 2028 opening as A Kimpton Resort. Lenders include X-Caliber and CastleGreen Finance under the C-PACE program. Despite funding, public confidence remains cautious given decades of delays and legal obstacles.
Actor Sam Neill has died at 78. His career spanned five decades, from early NZ breakthroughs to Hollywood fame in Jurassic Park and acclaimed arthouse films such as The Piano. He will be remembered for his warmth, versatility and enduring presence across cinema and television.
A widespread outbreak of cyclosporiasis linked to leafy greens is expanding across the United States. Michigan reports thousands of cases as authorities investigate a potential link to Taco Bell and other produce sources. Health officials warn the outbreak is likely to continue through August; precautions include thoroughly washing produce or cooking it.
Chipotle has removed jalapeños from restaurants after public health officials have linked a Salmonella Javiana outbreak to jalapeños served at multiple Mexican‑style restaurants. Minnesota has identified 110 cases tied to the outbreak; the FDA has opened an active investigation and has started sampling but has not issued a recall. Chipotle says it has replaced the peppers from different growers.
Sam Neill has died in Sydney at 78. His family has described the death as "sudden and unexpected" and his longtime agent has said Neill passed from pneumonia after having beaten a rare lymphoma with CAR‑T therapy; the agent added Neill had filmed four projects due for release and the family has asked for privacy and donations to causes he supported.
A roundup of recent studies and local efforts shows community-managed fishing areas and wildlife monitoring are shaping marine wildlife conservation. New methods reveal deeper whale shark behaviours and ongoing challenges from climate change and fishing practices, while regional initiatives seek to protect vulnerable species.
Lala has strengthened into a Category 1 hurricane with winds around 75 mph. It threatens Hawaii Island with life-threatening rain, flooding, and storm surges. Officials have issued hurricane warnings for the Big Island, with tropical storm warnings for Maui, Oahu, and others as the system tracks west-northwest, potentially bringing heavy rainfall and dangerous conditions.