Junebug Weddings revealed the winners of its annual wedding photography contest in December.
20.12.2023 - 22:27 / cntraveler.com
Hot springs are thermal wonders that promise not only warmth but also breathtaking scenery that captivates the soul, and adds some magic to your feed. From the picturesque landscapes of Iceland to the serene valleys of Japan, here are some of the world’s most beautiful hot springs.
Kheerganga, India
A roughly four-hour hike from the village of Barsheni in India’s stunning Parvati Valley leads to the hot springs of Kheerganga. The trek is quite rewarding, considering you arrive at a meadow believed to be the site where the Hindu god Shiva meditated for 3,000 years. Here, immerse yourself in the pools (there are two separate areas for men and women) while enjoying panoramic views of the Himalayas.
Dunton Hot Springs, USA
Tucked away in the San Juan Mountains, Colorado’s Dunton Hot Springs is a log cabin town of sorts, blending rustic charm with top-notch amenities. With cross-country ski trails designed by an Olympic Nordic skier and saloon-style dining, the main draw at this exclusive resort is the namesake hot springs. Enjoy the steamy waters in a restored 19th-century bathhouse with various indoor and outdoor pools.
Chinoike Jigoku, Japan
Nestled in the scenic hot spring haven of Beppu in Japan, Chinoike Jigoku, or the “Blood Pond Hell,” stands as a captivating geological marvel. Renowned for its striking crimson-hued waters, the spring’s unique colouration is attributed to the high iron content in its mineral-rich composition. Surrounded by billowing steam vents and set against a backdrop of lush greenery, Chinoike Jigoku presents a surreal landscape fit for a sci-fi movie.
Pamukkale, Turkey
The stunning 17-tiered thermal pools of Pamukkale—which translates to “cotton castle” in Turkish—stand out as a stunning example of the beauty found in hot springs. These serene pools are encased within limestone formations that perfectly mirror the sky. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Pamukkale shares its distinction with the nearby ancient spa town of Hierapolis, where hydrotherapy practices once accompanied religious ceremonies.
Chena Hot Springs, Alaska
About 60 miles northeast of Fairbanks is Chena Hot Springs, complemented by its own resort. Unearthed in 1905 by gold-mining siblings, the hot springs take center stage. Visitors can immerse themselves in its 104°F waters, with the added possibility of witnessing the northern lights. The resort offers various alternatives for some aquatic enjoyment, including indoor and outdoor tubs, hot tubs, and an indoor swimming pool.
Panamik, India
Panamik in Ladakh is a geothermal site renowned for its healing hot mineral waters. Found near the Nubra Valley enveloped by breathtaking Himalayan scenery, the hot springs are as serene as they can get. Visitors
Junebug Weddings revealed the winners of its annual wedding photography contest in December.
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Trevor Noah has spent a lot of time on the road lately. Since wrapping up his tenure as host of The Daily Show last year, the comedian has been hopping between continents to perform standup in some of the world’s greatest and most fascinating cities, from Berlin and Tokyo to Glasgow and Paris. His travels have also, unsurprisingly, given him more material to work with—much of which he explores in his new Netflix special, Trevor Noah: Where Was I, released on December 19. Condé Nast Traveler recently caught up with Noah—who also has a new Spotify podcast, What Now? with Trevor Noah, in the pipeline and will be returning as host of the 66th annual Grammy Awards in February—to talk national anthems, South African curries, and why travel has the power to shift our perspectives.