We’ve looked across a range of different genres so you’re sure to find something you love. Whether you want some chilled background music or something that you can sing along to, it’s all here.

So check out our list which includes playlists made by Spotify and some curated by their users. Let’s get started!

1. Dinner Music

If you’re looking for a can’t-go-wrong playlist then this is going to be your safe option. These songs are perfect for sitting in the background without distracting too much from the party.

They are tracks that won’t intrude on your conversation but will still perk the interest of any music lover. We see a selection of artist’s more laidback melodies such as “Landslide” by Fleetwood Mac and “Your Song” by Elton John.

There is a great mix of old and new here as well, with some Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift, along with the classics. 

It’s great for any type of dinner party and at around 250 songs, you’ll never need to worry about repeats. You can easily play it again at your next dinner party. It’s a sure win and your guests will love it. 

2. 100 Greatest Dinner Party Songs

This list proudly states that it captures the 100 greatest dinner party songs ever and it’s hard to disagree. While we all have our favorites, this list captures many brilliant songs that are perfect for any dinner setting.

As with the above list, this is one you can’t go wrong with. Many want dinner party songs to be great but able to blend in with the background. That’s exactly the type of song you get here.

It’s suitable for many musical tastes and for all ages. The playlist does have a smattering of more deep and powerful songs such as “The Blower’s Daughter” by Damien Rice and “Both Sides Now” by Joni Mitchell. 

Those types of songs are great for talking about music if the conversation dries out. In that respect, this playlist has a little more personality than our number-one pick. 

3. Beer & Wings

With the name of this playlist, you can probably already guess that it’s a little different from the other two. This is perfect for those more lively social gatherings where you are serving less formal food. 

It’s a playlist that mainly focuses on modern rock tunes such as “All My Life” by Foo Fighters and “Seven Nation Army” by The White Stripes. There is plenty of soft rock here as well.

If you’re having a BBQ with your pals, this is the playlist for you. It’s also great for a regular dinner party if you know that all of your guests love this type of music.

It’s probably not the best if you’re hosting a more serious meal but there are plenty of other playlists for that. This one has plenty of great songs and you’ll probably be playing some air guitar by the end of the night. 

4. Dinner Classical Music

Not really into music but want something interesting playing in the background. If that’s what you’re looking for then choose this playlist. It’s a great collection of beautiful classical music that won’t intrude on your party.

It’ll give the room plenty of warmth but without imposing at all. Your guests won’t be distracted and instead, you can focus on having deep conversations. 

Also, it may be that you just love classical music and want to show off that you know your “Piano Sonata No. 14 In C-Sharp Minor” from your “Nocturne in E-Flat Major.“

The playlist is almost four hours long so it’s great for playing while you enjoy your meal. It’s also great for a fledgling couple, as you can concentrate on each other and not worry about what’s playing. 

5. Soulful Dinner

Eating some soul food? If so, then why not accompany that with some soulful music? To be honest, it doesn’t matter what you’re eating. This playlist will go down well with any type of dinner.

As you can guess, it’s full of soul classics such as “Dance With My Father” by Luther Vandross and “For Once In My Life” by Stevie Wonder. While they are two obvious picks, there is a wide range of soul songs here.

As well as being a great playlist, it’s also a long one with nearly 300 songs. This means you can keep playing it without ever getting bored. If you host dinner parties often, then you can put it in a rotation with other playlists we’ve looked at here. 

It’s a fantastic collection of songs to listen to as the wine and the conversation flows. You’ll get many compliments about your choice of music. 

6. Fun Dinner Party

Here is another playlist around 300 songs long. As the description states, with this one good times are guaranteed. This is music that’s not going to sit quietly in the background.

If your dinner parties often turn into a fun night of drinking then this is probably what you’re looking for. It will instantly get you in the mood for a singalong and a dance for those lively parties.

Want to turn back time with Cher or become a dancing queen with ABBA? Well, you can do that right here. It’s an upbeat collection for people who don’t like to take themselves too seriously.

With around 16 hours of music, the party will end long before this playlist does. 

7. Chill Dinner

Chill Dinner is probably the antithesis of our last selection. This is a more relaxed playlist where the tempo stays at a slow and peaceful level for those nights when you just want to stay chill.

The playlist is also updated quite often with new music so you don’t have to worry about it getting too old. Not only does it take the work out of choosing a playlist, but you’ll also probably find some great new music too.

It’s perfect for sitting quietly in the background without making too much of a fuss as you listen to soothing songs from great artists like Lana Del Rey, Adele, and Ray LaMontagne.

The genre of the playlist balances between indie, folk, and pop for those who like a rich mix of chilled tunes. 

8. Country Cookout

There’s something about country music that gives you those images of authentic barbeque food on summer nights, sharing a beer with your pals.

Whether country is your favorite genre of music or not, this is a great playlist for your cookout. You can use this list when your dinner party consists of serving up some delicious Southern food.

There are many classics here such as “Chattahoochee” by Alan Jackson and “Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd. The artists chosen here are vast and there will be a favorite for every country fan.

Rather than just throwing in any song, this list has been perfectly curated for hosting a dinner and you’ll love it playing in the background. 

9. Indie Dinner Party

If you want a playlist that never gets old, then you’ll appreciate this choice. It is constantly added to with indie songs that are a perfect accompaniment for a night of dining with your friends. 

The songs chosen are those which can be a solid background to lively conversation. This is a chilled out and formal playlist for those who prefer the indie genre instead of the more pop-style playlist.

With it constantly evolving, there is a good chance you’ll find some great new music. The creator of the list avoids the obvious and instead opts for tracks that fit in with the style.

The result is an impressive collection of beautiful songs from lesser-known artists and a playlist perfect for a dinner party. 

10. 500 Greatest Songs of All Time

As we’ve seen with these playlists, you need to make the choice of whether you want your music to be background noise or you want it to be a part of the conversation. 

If you want the latter, you probably won’t find a better playlist than this one. Music is very subjective and this may not be your top 500 songs ever but the creator does a great job of being objective.

The 500 tracks transverse a whole spectrum of genres which is why we see artists such as Bob Dylan and Talking Heads to Queen and Nirvana. There’s something for everyone.

You’ll love debating about the songs and love hearing them at the same time. It’s a brilliant list that can be used for a lot more than dinner parties. 

11. Jukebox Joint

Want to transport yourself back in time to the days of the old honky tonk? Here we see the perfect playlist for if you’re hosting a retro night or if you just love those old tunes. 

The list is a fun and upbeat collection of classic songs that are perfect for singing along. We see this with tracks such as “Oh, Pretty Woman,” “Shake, Rattle and Roll,” and “I Saw Her Standing There.“

It’s quite a short playlist but works perfectly for lightening the mood and putting a smile on everyone’s face. It also works well when people have finished their meals and you’re pouring the next round of drinks.

You’ll soon be musing about a simpler time when rock ‘n’ roll was taking the world by storm. 

12. Classic Rock Dinner Party

We’ve mentioned modern rock, soft rock, and country rock as well as a few indie playlists. If they weren’t quite to your tastes then how about some classic rock for your dinner party?

This is a brilliantly curated playlist that manages to include many great rock songs but avoids any of them being too intrusive or jarring when you’re trying to host a dinner party.

The types of artists you can expect from this long playlist are Dire Straits, Neil Young, and Bruce Springsteen among many, many others. 

It’s a beautiful celebration of classic rock and if this is the type of music your guests like, then they’ll love this fantastic playlist.

But who is the king of the late night show? We’ve narrowed it down to 10 of the best ever in the business. Your favorite is sure to be here. These hosts make the difficult late night spot look effortless while constantly making us laugh.

We’ve got a mix of older legends along with newer kids on the block but let’s start with one of TVs greatest ever stars.

1. David Letterman

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This late night host needs no introduction. Television would never be the same again after David Letterman starred on NBC’s Late Night with David Letterman. He was the captain of the show in the 80s and was following in the footsteps of his mentor Johnny Carson.

In 1992, many expected Letterman to take over from Carson on The Tonight Show after his retirement but instead, the gig went to Jay Leno. It was hugely controversial at the time and the drama was even made into a film called The Late Shift.

Letterman decided to head to CBS, hosting The Late Show with David Letterman right through to 2015. Think of how many times he has made you laugh with his gap-toothed self-mockery and charm.

He is bold, ironic, and yet has a mocking sense of humor. With his eccentric manner, he became immensely popular. Not only has his comedy inspired many comedians and other talk show hosts, but he is arguably the king of late night shows and had a massive impact on comedy. Letterman built on the format pioneered by Carson and took the late night presenting role to new heights. 

2. Conan O’Brien

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While a few people might not agree that Conan O’Brien is hysterically funny, many more people do. The tall redhead from Boston has immense comedic talent. His insults are not only biting but also hilarious. He jokes in a way that is never mean-spirited, and everything is in good humor.

Neither would he go too far, as he is always the ultimate butt of the joke. Compared to other lesser talk shows, his delivery was not predictable or boring. He knows how to make his guests welcome and is always brilliant at bringing them right out of their shells.

Conan is humble and hilarious with his sidekick Andy Richter. His career hasn’t always been plain sailing. Everyone remembers The Tonight Show disaster where Jay Leno handed over the franchise to Conan only to take it back. After this, he went to TBS and made the best of it with his comedy show Conan which ran for 11 years.

3. Stephen Colbert

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Many of the hosts on this list hosted more than one show. Very few of them actually can say their shows were much different from one another. There often isn’t much versatility and the formula remains the same. 

That can’t be said of Stephen Colbert. The Colbert Report was very different from The Late Show but both of them were brilliant. While outrageous on The Colbert Report, he seamlessly took over from Letterman. 

He never broke his character, delivering hilarious comedy yet insightful nuggets of information seen nowhere else. The show became prevalent as a comedy program for many to watch late at night. Colbert is immensely talented in many aspects, such as acting and writing, but in the last few years, we’ve seen the best of him as a late night host. 

4. Jimmy Fallon

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When Jimmy Fallon walked onto The Late Show as the new host in 2009, he was on fire with his grinning smile and hilarious charm. Many predicted him to fail but he would go on to prove his critics wrong. The show would go on to run for five years and was notable for being different from other late shows due to it being more fun-orientated with music, dance, and games.

His brilliant style of late night hosting would see him go on to take over from Jay Leno as the host of The Tonight Show. Again, he proved to be a hit and channeled the same vibe that he had on The Late Show. 

He’s proved to be one of the greats with his boundless energy and endless fun. Many clips from the show have gone viral which shows his comedic appeal. He’ll be entertaining us for many years to come.

5. Jay Leno

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We’ve already mentioned the great man a couple of times and it’s obvious he was going to make this list!

The TV icon first hit the spotlight in the 80s as a stand-up comedian and would occasionally fill in for Johnny Carson on The Tonight Show. He took over from Carson when he retired when everyone was expecting it to go to David Letterman.

Letterman ended up having a great career with CBS but could never quite match the incredible ratings of Leno’s The Tonight Show. Leno had incredibly broad appeal and those high ratings would remain high until he decided to retire and hand over the reins to Conan O’Brien. Poor ratings and scheduling conflicts would end up seeing Leno return to host the show before Fallon eventually took over.

Leno is undoubtedly a legend and his battles with Letterman and O’Brien have also given us plenty of drama!

6. Arsenio Hall

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The Arsenio Hall Show ran brilliantly from 1989 to 1994 and had a brief reprise from 2013 to 2014. Despite not having the long runs of many of his contemporaries, Hall still produced many memorable moments. No moment was more iconic than the legendary saxophone-playing appearance of Bill Clinton in 1992.

The Arsenio Hall Show was popular with a topical touch and hilarious. The audience cheered instead of applauding and would pump their fists shouting, “woof, woof, and woof,” which was copied from Cleveland Browns’ fans.

It all added up to a show that was very different and had great appeal to younger audiences. He provided essential viewing for a few years, even if the time was short-lived, but left his mark on pop culture. While he didn’t have the longevity of others on this list, he left an indelible mark in the world of late night hosting. 

7. Jimmy Kimmel

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Jimmy Kimmel doesn’t have the same comedic flair as other late hosts such as O’Brien, nor does he have the energy and enthusiasm of a Fallon. What he does have is a very slick presenting style that’s inoffensive and easy-going. It’s clear that he’s loved by a wide demographic. 

His Jimmy Kimmel! Live shows have remained a staple of ABC since 2003 with over 3,000 shows being aired. It has remained popular and instead of gimmicks and games, it often uses familiar segments and running jokes.

His shows are perfectly put together and it’s TV that you simply can’t dislike. He’s become a master of the art and cemented himself as one of the best last night hosts to ever do it. 

8. Jon Stewart

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In many ways, Jon Stewart is the complete opposite of Jimmy Kimmel. Where Kimmel rarely gets political, Stewart was never afraid to let his viewers know what he thought of the Bush and Obama administrations. 

He’s also naturally very funny and The Daily Show boomed under his stewardship. Fans of the show found his passion and rage a refreshing change from many other placid shows.

The show was also notable for being the TV debut of many great comedians. It helped to give them the exposure they needed as we saw the likes of Stephen Colbert and Steve Carell kick start their careers. 

In 2015, he decided to exit the show and leave it in the capable hands of Trevor Noah. The show hasn’t quite had the same appeal since Stewart left despite Noah also being a great host. The comedic genius of Stewart was always going to be a tough act to follow. 

9. Craig Ferguson

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In many ways, Craig Ferguson was everything a late night host shouldn’t be, but due to his talent, it worked. There were no fancy gimmicks or house bands and the interviews he did were unscripted and rawer. 

Instead, the show leaned heavily on his comedic ability. His wit meant that the lack of scripted staging was never a problem. He’s a man who could take any topic and make it hilarious. 

He has to be respected for doing things differently. Ferguson also needs to be respected for never punching down in his comedy and not making fun of celebrities who were going through challenging times. His successor, James Corden, does the same but has since added a lot more standard late night elements to his show. 

Ferguson was unique and people loved him for it. His show was never a ratings superhit but it had lasting popularity on its run of over 2,000 shows. 

10. Johnny Carson

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Last on the list of the best late night show hosts of all time is a man who laid the foundations for many to follow. He had good looks but was talented too, and many viewers were comfortable with him while watching the late-night shows. The Tonight Show reached new heights with ratings, as Carson’s performance became legendary.

He was a natural comedian, making him a huge hit. However, in 1979, he wanted out of the show and tried to get out of the contract. It became a year-long battle but finally, NBC and Carson resolved their issues to work out a new deal.

Carson would be the first to try many of the elements that we have come to expect from late night hosts. This includes the monologue and interview style which has become the format on many different shows.

The likes of a house band, games, and sidekicks were also first perfected on his show. There is a strong argument to say that he’s the greatest ever to do it not only because of his talent but also because he was such a trailblazer. 

When it came time for him to retire, the network had to choose Letterman or Leno as his successor. He always saw Letterman as the man to take over the job but it wasn’t to be. Leno took over The Tonight Show, and Letterman was left furious and heartbroken. The rest is history. 

Here we take a look at some of the best fighters who have ever graced the sport. Those who have helped to make the UFC what it is today. Some make this list as they were technically incredible, others have made it because they helped to change the game,

I’m sure you’ll agree with some selections and disagree with others but here is our list of the 10 greatest UFC fighters of all time. 

1. Georges St. Pierre

For many, “Rush” is the greatest to have ever done it and we can’t disagree. You only have to look at his record to see the names he’s beat such as Matt Hughes, BJ Penn, Michael Bisping, Matt Serra, and more. 

He isn’t the most electrifying fighter on this list but for the purists, he is a master of his craft. There is no one he faced who he didn’t beat. That in the world of UFC is an unbelievable achievement.

He lost twice with the first being to Matt Hughes, who he went on to beat twice, and Matt Serra, which is a loss he quickly avenged. He finished with a record of 26-2 and won two different belts at welterweight (which he defended nine times) and middleweight.

St. Pierre left the sport in 2013 but came back in 2017 to face Bisping. He won by technical submission and it helped to cement his reputation as an all-time great. Not many fighters get to go out on top. He did and in spectacular fashion. 

2. Jon Jones

Jon Jones, nicknamed “Bones,” was born in 1987 in Rochester, New York to a father who was a pastor and a mother who was a nurse. He is the youngest person to have ever won a championship by winning the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship in 2011 and then doing it again in 2018. He’s arguably the best pound-for-pound fighter but has had some spats with the UFC in recent times due to money.

Initially working as a bouncer, the circumstances and responsibilities of raising a young family of his own forced Jones to become a professional MMA fighter. Two weeks into his first MMA training, Jones won his first-ever fight and quickly made his UFC debut in 2008.

His wrestling is key in his MMA fights as he is prone to executing takedowns and has a fantastic defense that can withstand most grappling attacks. Jones has some of the most theatrical and brutal takedowns in UFC history.

As brutal as he is in the ring, Jones also has a lot of issues on the sidelines such as hit and run charges in 2015 and doping suspensions that have been a hindrance to his fighting career. There is no doubting his talent though. He’s one of the best to ever do it, some would say the best ever. 

3. Khabib Nurmagomedov

Khabib Nurmagomedov is an incredible fighter who originates from the Republic of Dagestan in Russia. He is nicknamed “The Eagle” and was born in 1988. He was the undisputed champion of UFC and MMA fighting where he competed in the lightweight division. Nurmagomedov has won and held the title of UFC Lightweight Champion from April 2018 to March 2021.

How impressive is he? Well, throughout his MMA career in UFC, he won 29 times and never lost, making him the undisputed and undefeated champion. Nurmagomedov’s fighting style is generally a mix of sambo, judo, and wrestling and is widely regarded as the greatest MMA athlete of modern times. His professional MMA debut was in September 2008 where he racked up four wins in a month and from then onwards his feats in the UFC became legendary.

One of the highlights was his fight against Conor McGregor that was the MMA match with the biggest audience in its history. The UFC president, Dana White tried his best to persuade Nurmagomedov to take on one more fight before retiring in March 2021, but in the end, he accepted his decision.

4. Anderson Silva

You might think that Silva should be regarded as the best UFC fighter of all time, and well, we wouldn’t argue. He is an unbelievably good fighter but the battle for the UFC goat is a very close one.

The most impressive aspect of Silva’s career was that title reign. No one could touch him for an unbelievable 2,457 days. That covered 10 titles defenses, which is incredibly impressive in such a tough sport. 

All UFC fighters are tough but Silva took it to another level. In his 17-fight winning streak, the fights only ever went to points on two occasions. If you stepped into an octagon with him, you were more than likely getting knocked out. 

The end of his career undoubtedly affects his legacy. He was 38 when he fought Chris Weldman and probably should have called it a day. Instead, he let his record slip from 33-4 to 34-11. There is also the black cloud of his no-contest vs. Nick Diaz for taking anabolic steroids. While the ending wasn’t great, we’ll never forget that run from 2006 to 2012 where no one could come close to beating him.

5. Amanda Nunes

If you were to ask someone to name some great women UFC fighters they’d probably come up with the likes of Holly Holm, Cris Cyborg, Ronda Rousey, and Miesha Tate. Well, Nunes beat them all. The UFC didn’t bring women into the sport until 2013 but when they did, the likes of Nunes showed that they more than deserved the billing. 

She’s an absolute force of nature and dominates any opponent that is put in front of her. By the time she’s done, Nunes could well move to the top spot when it comes to the best UFC fighter of all time.

She’s beaten all there is to beat and has done it over two divisions. The problem she faces now is trying to find opponents who are close to her level.

6. Stipe Miocic

Stipe Miocic is the best heavyweight UFC fighter of all time. While not quite the glamour division it is in boxing, there is something epic about huge men going into the octagon and trying to destroy each other.

In the heavyweight division, there is no margin for error when they punch this hard. It means that records in the highest weight class often don’t look quite as good as they do in the divisions below. That being said, Miocic still has a great record of 14-4 in the UFC with wins over the likes of Daniel Cormier (twice) Junior dos Santos, Alistair Overeem, and Fabricio Werdum. 

Two of his losses have been avenged against dos Santos and Cormier and he has a great highlight reel of incredible knockouts. He may not be the most talented fighter on this list but you have to respect the best fighter in the most violent division. 

7. Conor McGregor

He’s Irish, he’s electric to watch, and this year, Forbes crowned Conor McGregor as the highest-paid athlete in the world. Nicknamed “Notorious,” McGregor is the embodiment of a loose cannon and that is said with the utmost respect to how he has built his brand as an MMA fighter and UFC royalty. Even people who don’t follow UFC would have heard of his name, and he’s helped to give the UFC an incredible amount of exposure.

He fights to entertain and has always been the greatest showman in the sport. He has won titles in two divisions before but if we were to ask the question; is he the best MMA fighter ever? The truth is, he’s not.

In the case of Conor McGregor, persona trumps title any day and if another question were to be asked of who is the most well-known MMA fighter ever? Then there is no other answer than Conor McGregor. He may not be the greatest talent that has ever fought in an octagon but there is no doubting his legacy in the sport.

8. Demetrious Johnson

No one really dominated a division quite like Demetrious Johnson. He owned the flyweight division with an incredible 11 defenses. From 2012 to 2017, no one could beat him.

If this was a list of the most exciting UFC fighters then he wouldn’t make the list. He was a fighter for the purists, methodically working out his opponents and not giving them a chance of victory.

He wasn’t a marketer’s dream but he didn’t care about that, all the “Mighty Mouse” cared about was putting wins next to his name and he did that plenty of times. A few fighters on this list have reached greatness by winning two belts, something he never tried to do. He’s seemingly past his prime now so we’ll probably never know whether or not he could have done it. 

9. Israel Adesanya

MMA fighters and those who are in the UFC have seen their fair share of wacky characters and some of them have already been mentioned in this list. However, none could be more astoundingly unique as Israel Adesanya, also known as “The Last Stylebender” due to his prominent references to Japanese anime such as Naruto and Death Note in press conferences and interviews.

Born in 1989 in Lagos, Nigeria, Adesanya grew up in Auckland, New Zealand, which he calls home. Adesanya’s fighting style is basically boxing and kickboxing and he is highly regarded as one of the best strikers in MMA.

His influence in taking up kickboxing was since he was inspired by the Thai kickboxing movie called Ong-Bak. He is ranked third in the current UFC pound-for-pound ranking and is currently the UFC Middleweight Champion after making his UFC debut in February 2018.

10. Ronda Rousey

Ronda Rousey makes this list for a similar reason to McGregor – it wasn’t just about the fighting. The UFC needs people to ignite the public interest and get people talking, for women’s MMA, there was no one better than Rousey. 

The retired American MMA fighter is the first female Hall of Famer for the UFC and her nickname. “Rowdy,” was well deserved. She competed in the featherweight and bantamweight divisions with a fighting style that was heavily influenced by judo. Rousey had previously represented the United States in judo and won a bronze medal in the 2008 Summer Olympics, making her the first American to achieve the feat in the sport.

She became an amateur MMA fighter in 2010 and turned professional in 2011. In 2012, she became the first woman to sign with UFC where she became the UFC Women’s Bantamweight Champion and then defended her title in 2012. Rousey branched out to professional wrestling and acting after retiring from MMA. She helped bring attention to women’s UFC and helped to make it the force it is today. 

It has gone from strength to strength and is now bigger than ever. With so many memorable fights over the years, it’s very hard to make a top 10. What all these fights have in common is that there was a lot on the line and they were all brutal battles.

There are many things that can make a great fight. The underdog can fight against the odds, it could be a complete slugfest, or perhaps it’s a technically perfect contest with two fighters at the top of their game.

We’ve got everything here as we take a look at the 10 best UFC fights of all time. We’ve also included some video links so you can relive the mayhem. Let’s get started!

It’s this romanticism that makes baseball perfect for the silver screen. There have been countless movies made about America’s game, but some have been a lot better than others.

Here we’re going to look at the 10 best baseball movies of all time. There are some great works of fiction along with some of baseball’s most compelling real-life stories. We’ve also got some old cult classics along with more modern films. What they all have in common is that they are brilliant baseball movies.

Hopefully your favorite will make the list, but if you’ve not seen any of these, make sure to watch them as soon as possible. Let’s start with the greatest baseball movie of all time . . .

Investing in a proper storage space must be your top priority. After all, it becomes our duty to preserve such treasures and protect them for future generations. With this article, we have put together the leading storage solutions that will keep your vinyl records safe and sound. Let’s check them out!

Ranging from vintage models that have been on the top of the price listings for decades to relatively new releases that show a steady increase in value, the possibilities are limitless.

It’s only the question of finding the one that fits your preferences and current capital. Here are 12 of the best investment watches for men you can choose from.

Whether you want to stay in a medieval castle surrounded by beautiful natural scenery or enjoy the commodities of a modern architectural marvel, if you are spending your holiday in a castle, you will feel like royalty.

Here are some of the most remarkable castles that you can actually rent on Airbnb. Let’s check them out!

1. Château du Châtelard, Montreux Castle, France

An authentic Swiss château with a view of the stunning Lake Geneva, this castle is located in Montreux, Switzerland. Unlike many other accommodations in Switzerland, this lakeside property looming in the hills of Montreux won’t break the bank either. The accommodations come with two extremely neat yet spacious bedrooms that can house up to six people.

There is a studio couch, free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and an indoor fireplace you can use at your convenience. The apartments are also decorated with plenty of fine paintings, not to mention the stunning view you get of the Swiss Alps, the vineyards of Lavaux, and Lake Geneva. The resort town of Zermatt and the cheese capital Gruyere are also located nearby, and you can visit them by hopping on a train.

2. Castle Kilmartin, Scotland

This rustic-looking castle located in Kilmartin, near Glasgow, Scotland, can be the perfect hideaway for any romantic soul looking to experience life as a 16th-century Scot. You will get to rent a private room housing two guests, a wood-burning fireplace, lots of cozy blankets, and of course, plenty of Scottish whisky to keep you warm.

You will be surrounded by a variety of antique treasures and be able to gaze upon stone walls, charming wood beams, and vaulted ceilings. The place has a couple of modern perks as well, like Wi-Fi and a walk-in shower.

After strolling the grounds, you can wind down with romantic music provided by the owner’s vinyl collection. Or, you can also opt for having a drink or two while you wait for your authentic meal to be prepared by the local chef.

3. Castle La Bastane, France

While hilltop castles are usually only visited by outdoor enthusiasts, this is certainly not the case with the Chateau of La Bastane in Rions, France. Perched on a hill, this tough-looking fortress is surrounded by a valley populated with miles and miles of vineyards. Plus, the castle even has its private winery that produces some of the most exquisite wines you can taste in France, or Europe for that matter. 

What makes this family-owned wine-making estate so successful is that it holds only organic vineyards. And if you stay in one of the three bedrooms of this French chateau, you will get to enjoy all their whites, reds, rosés, and much more. Each apartment has a living room with a fireplace, and of course, and a private terrace that grants an exceptional view of the surrounding valley.

4. Historic Venetian Castle, Villa Maroulas, Greece

Hidden in the village of Maroulas, on the isle of Crete, Greece, there is a castle raised in a true Venetian spirit. The monument is built from stone and provides spacious accommodations for 12 guests in the five available bedrooms. The exposed stone walls and the graceful arches give this castle a feel of relaxed elegance.

Stepping onto the rooftop terrace, guests are greeted with the view of the blue crystalline colored sea you can only see at the shores of Greece. It’s perfect for dining al fresco and entertaining. 

There are also many stunning structures to explore in the nearby village, so you will have no trouble creating memories. If the sun-drenched scenery becomes overwhelming, you can always dive into the exquisite pool to freshen up a little bit.

5. Castle Granaio, Monselice, Italy

Situated in the picturesque town of Monselice, Italy, this 19th-century manor awaits its guests with luxury accommodations, such as an indoor heated pool, thermal baths, elegant country house, wine cellar, and vintage wooden furniture.

It has one-bedroom apartments to rent, which can house up to four people, and you’ll all be charmed with all the stunning features of the places. The rooms come with their own kitchen, living room, and bathroom.

The castle features a private courtyard and a massive garden with plum trees. When you are done discovering all the hidden gems of this place, you can always head out to visit Venice, which is located only 45 minutes from the castle. Then you can go back and soak in the vintage bathtub while winding down with a glass of some of the best Italian wine.

6. Castle Santa Marta de Portuzelo, Portugal

If you are looking for a historical castle that can accommodate more than 10 people with all of them having plenty of space for themselves, you will need to visit Castle Santa Marta de Portuzelo. This nine-bedroom castle sits on a 20,000 square foot property and is located merely 40 minutes from the vibrant city of Porto, Portugal. Only two bedrooms have fireplaces, but each of them has its own en-suite bathroom.

There are also three spacious living rooms and two dining rooms where guests can socialize. Inside the stone-walled building, a chapel is giving homage to the castle’s namesake.

If you head outside the wall, you’ll find a mini-castle housing beautiful doves. Heading a little farther, you can admire about four acres of gardens and a watchtower. There is also an outdoor pool you can dive into on a hot summer day.

7. Castle in Dolnyslask, Poland

This rose-colored castle located in Dolnyslask, Poland, looks like a dream come true and not just from the outside. Its architecture is full of character and historical value, while the spacious design will charm you and the other nine guests it can accommodate. There are a total of five bedrooms to rent, not to mention the roomy backyard that is sometimes visited by the animals from the private forest located just outside castle grounds.

Should you get tired of gazing upon the variety of Polish wildlife or strolling by the beautiful channel, you can also visit the nearby town of Wroclaw. By traveling there, you can experience the local country life which is offered at very affordable prices. When you are ready to retire, you will get to return to your fairytale castle and relax in front of a cozy fire. 

8. Castle Alt Eberstein, Baden-Württemberg, Germany

A romantic castle nestled in a forest, Castle Alt Eberstein in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, is situated in a very secluded area and is characterized by a spacious design. Its two rentable bedrooms are quite luxurious and can accommodate a total number of 10 guests, all of whom can enjoy the benefits of sleeping in a German castle. While this castle looks like it has escaped the passage of time from the outside, its interior is equipped with all the modern amenities you need.

Depending on your mood, you can have an eventful day climbing the towers of the castle and reward yourself with an unbeatable view or travel to the nearby Black Forest. You can also simply visit the spa of the neighboring town of Baden-Baden, after which you can retire to your room and have a fun movie night.

9. Former Imperial Palace, Vienna, Austria

This magnificent building was once an imperial palace serving as a residence to some of the most famous Austrian princes and princesses. It only has four available bedrooms, but these are proven to be so spacious that can accommodate up to 10 people.

There is an ornate salon where guests can socialize, and when they are ready to retire for the night, a marble staircase will lead them up to their rooms. For everyone who would like to make a quick escape to a European period setting, the Former Imperial Palace in Vienna, Austria, should be the number one place to visit.

Its colorful decorations and artistic architecture will provide you with a very truthful insight into the true spirit of the Austrian monarchy. Some of these are also present in the other monuments of the capital city, including the Belvedere, which is only a short walk away.

10. Storybook Castle, Connecticut, United States

This castle is located in the middle of Ellington, Connecticut, United States, and it looks like it was just conjured out of a storybook. The entire cozy place is rentable, and it can host a total of five guests in the three available bedrooms. These rooms follow a theme, and you can choose whether you want to stay in the romantic Romeo & Juliet Room, the adventurous Jungle Room, or the luxurious Burgundy Room.

None of these have television, but you will have plenty of other ways to occupy your time. After all, you can sip your coffee on the balcony, read books by an authentic fireplace, or stroll around the seven-acre property the castle sits on. You will surely take your time when re-entering your accommodation because you will be too busy admiring the construction of the castle, including the grand staircase at the entrance.

11. Historical Fanningstown Castle Adare, Ireland

Upon arrival at Fanningstown Castle, you will be greeted with Gothic floral arrangements in the halls and plenty of wood in the fireplace to enjoy. You can rent the entire property, which can house 10 guests in the five available bedrooms. You can count on being treated to a traditional Irish breakfast by the owner, who will make sure you feel welcome.

The interior of the place is newly renovated, but the idyllic kitchen and spacious dining room haven’t lost their charm. Neither has the sitting room with a piano, a rare find even in the most luxurious places.

Located only two-and-a-half hours southwest of Dublin, this 12th-century fortress can be an idyllic stop for anyone traveling through Ireland and wanting to stay in a historical setting. The lack of Wi-Fi makes it possible to disconnect and just enjoy sitting in front of the fireplace or on the patio.

12. Augill Castle, Cumbria, England

This enchanting castle has an impressive tower you can seek refuge under because looking at it will make you feel like you have traveled back in time. Officially listed as a hotel, Augill Castle provides accommodation for only two people at a time, making it the perfect getaway for you and your loved one. The open fireplace, stained glass windows, and music room provide the castle with a distinct romantic note.

You can either enjoy your afternoon tea while lounging in a luxurious leather chair or wander around the castle grounds and explore the gorgeous scenery of the Lake District in Cumbria. When you are done strolling, you can go back and relax in your room which comes with a fully stocked bar. The view, the fresh air, and the lingering feeling of chivalry and romance you can experience at the Augill Castel surely beat sleeping in a hotel.

With 10-year battery life and a nearly indestructible design, G-shock changed our perception of watches completely. From an incredibly useful tool to a cultural phenomenon, G-Shock watches have seen it all. It’s a watch with a longstanding history and tradition that demands attention.

G-Shock was able to attract and keep an incredible board appeal. Outdoor enthusiasts, athletes, military and law enforcement personnel, fashion trendsetters, and gadget lovers can all find their favorite G-Shock model.

Here you will learn what inspired the creation of its innovative technology and how Casio G-Shock became one of the most recognizable brands of our day.

The Birth of the G-Shock

After a pocket watch given to him by his father broke, Casio engineer Kikuo Ibe was heartbroken. So, in 1981 he was inspired to create an unbreakable watch based upon three main factors.

He wanted it to be water-resistant (even on higher water pressures), resist centrifugal impact, and have long battery life. While at the time, it seemed that creating a product like this might defy the laws of physics, he was able to achieve his goals.

After working on the project for two years and producing over 200 prototypes, Ibe and his team were able to develop a product that was tough down to the core, thus marking the birth of innovative technology. Not only was the watch scratch-and waterproof from the outside, but it was also shock-resistant on the inside.

How were Casio Engineers able to create a product that defies gravity? Well, the answer to that is pretty simple. While visiting a playground, head engineer Ibe noticed a bouncing rubber ball. He realized that the center of the ball doesn’t suffer the shock from gravitational forces, only the exterior does.

Based on this model, and after two years of drop-testing, Ibe was finally able to visualize a unique shock resisting system that ultimately became the base of G-Shock watches. This basic design consists of a hollow case with the timekeeping module surrounded by a urethane foam cradle. Vital parts of the mechanism are made of quartz, and they are also protected from impact with the same cushioning material. This first official G-Shock was the DW-5000C.

Protruding points such as the buttons and the glass are made of urethane, so the watch can withstand impacts from any direction. The engineers also made sure that the strap also helps isolate the watch from shocks.

Not only were these features able to protect the G-Shock from impacts, but can also counteract high G-forces and even heavier vibrations. This combination of features was a deciding factor for naming the watch as well.

G-Shock essentially stands for the gravitation shock one is subjected to when falling. Therefore, Ibe created a watch that would remain working after any fall its wearer can suffer and named it accordingly.

Rise to Fame

Since its large, square case was designed with practicality in mind, G-Shock watches weren’t considered particularly fashionable at the time of their release. Because of this, the sale of G-Shock had a slow start.

Only after an ad in 1984 showed an American hockey player using the DW-5200C model instead of a hockey puck had the public begin to gain interest in it. It took more than a year for G-Shock to become popular among outdoor enthusiasts, police officers, and firefighters in North America.

Slowly but surely, it was tested by many people in a wide variety of extreme situations and has since become known as the world’s toughest watch. Over time, the design of its protective case has improved, but its ability to withstand extreme levels of shocks stayed the same.

In 1990, the DW-5900C model had an innovative Tri-graph liquid crystal display, which launched the watch into American pop culture. After being worn by famous hip-hop artists and skateboarders, the youth was taken with the allure of G-Shocks.

Later on, even the collectors begin to take interest in the G-Shock, and the watches have become much-coveted pieces. From the famous square design presented in the DW-5600C in 1987 to the models featuring analog and later digital technologies, there isn’t one that’s not wanted by a watch collector. Interestingly enough, it took the watch’s rise to this level of fame in North America before the public of its homeland of Japan even noticed it.

Since then, Casio G-Shock’s have been made even more fashionable, and not only because of their looks. Collaborations with artists and streetwear designers such as Stussy, Takashi Murakami, Bathing Ape, and Maison Martin Margiela made it possible to create countless limited edition G-Shocks. Many of these were (and still are) sold exclusively in Japan, which only increased their value on the Western market.

Perhaps the most popular version amongst collectors is the Casio Frogman line, which is also part of the Master of G series. This includes all the watches from the “Man” series: Frogman, Antman, Gulfman, Mudman, Riseman, Gaussman, and many others.

Style Evolution

While G-Shock enjoyed wide popularity due to the now traditional collaborations, its creator knew that in order to keep the sales up, they had to come up with new innovations. Capitalizing on the brand’s mainstream acceptance and newly gained reputation as an innovator of streetwear fashion, Casio engineers decided to place their focus even more in the direction of style.

After realizing that the resin watches only matched casual outfits, Kikuo Ibe set out on creating metal watches that could be suitable to wear on formal occasions as well.

First, they decided to launch a line of smaller, stylish watches for women and the first Baby-G, the DW-520, was born in 1994. Just a year later, with the model DW-6900, Casio came up with what’s since become one of the most iconic cases of all time.

1996 marked the release of the MR-G series – these watches could truly match with any outfit you can imagine wearing. These were joined by analog models in 1997, and the foundation for a new era of high-end, luxury-style watches was laid.

After a couple of years of focusing on implementing the newest technical developments, in the late 2010s, Casio began to expand their signature lines like the Rangeman and the Frogman series.

This move, coupled with the release of the full metal GMW-B5000 model, gave G-Shock yet another big boost of popularity. Of course, part of this success is also the result of the company’s continued promotional efforts and willingness to invest in new, functional technologies and collaborations with artists, athletes, and fashion designers worldwide.

Technological Advancements

While the stylish G-Shock models enjoyed wide popularity during the better part of the 1990s, its creator knew that in order to keep the sales up, they also had to come up with new technological innovations.

In 1993 Casio released a full water-repellent diver’s watch, the asymmetrical Frogman DW-6300. It had a 20-atmosphere resistance and was the first-ever ISO-certified diver watch for 200-meter depths.

It was quickly followed up by the first titanium Frogman, the DW-8200, in 1995. In 1997, Casio redirected their focus to the basics of shock resistance, and the engineers have again begun experimenting with new technologies to create an even tougher watch. New models, such as the GW-300, began to evolve in both performance and function.

The first solar-powered member of the Raysman series, the DW-9300, was released in 1998. This was the first Casio watch employing the now popular Tough Solar feature. 2000 marked the appearance of the GW-100, the first radio-controlled G-Shock.

This later evolved into today’s Multi-Band 6 feature present in most digital G-Shocks. Over the 2000s, features like resistance to low temperatures, dirt repelling, built-in pressure, and temperature sensors were developed to keep up with the market’s demand.

Released in 2002, this G-shock was equipped with a more advanced version of the traditional radio-controlled technologies. And on top of that, it had a solar-powered option as well. Its successor, the GW-9200 model released in 2008, could receive incredibly precise, time-calibration radio signals from six different radio stations worldwide.

In the 2010s, Casio began to focus more on analog models, and a noticeable resurgence of the original G-Shock features happened with the introduction of the GA-100 and GA-110 series.

In 2012, Casio’s first Bluetooth-enabled G-Shock was released. This function made it easier to connect their watches with a smartphone, entering the G-Shock into the world of early smartwatches. In 2013, the company marked G-Shock’s 30th birthday with the launch of the Smart Access system, enabling an even smoother operation for a wide range of old and new functions.

Later on, G-Shock also continued to develop digital models like the GW-9400 Rangeman. This watch was equipped with the series signature Triple Sensor and became one of the best-selling models of the last decade.

The Future G-Shocks

As of 2014, Casio put a considerable amount of time and effort into developing a hybrid time acquisition system. The first model having this feature, the GPW-1000, was released that year.

This watch can receive time-calibration signals from six radio transmitters and GPS satellites with equal efficiency. In May 2017, Casio released the GPW-2000 Gravitymaster, featuring the Connected Engine 3-Way module. Apart from receiving radio waves and GPS satellite time calibration signals, this model was also able to pair with a smartphone and adjust the time through its time servers.

Looking into the future, Casio promises to keep up with the tradition of combining new technology with a dependable structure. G-shock creators also want to make sure that besides the limited edition designs that cater to collectors, their watches will be able to meet the needs of an even wider spectrum of users.

Developing their ever-popular Frogman series seems to be the best way to combine the useful with stylish. After all, Frogman dive watches are one of the most resilient watches in the world. They already come in many different colors and styles, however, the engineers are still constantly experimenting with new materials to expand their customer range with the Frogman. This series had the first G-Shock made from titanium as well.

Beyond street style, Casio creators are looking at taking the Frogman series to the luxury market by using artistic designs and high-end ingredients. The MRGG1000HT, an 18K gold classic G-Shock decorated with a unique technique, is the first, but certainly not last, effort towards these goals.

Of course, Casio engineers will never stop pursuing usability either. They have an ongoing plan to further develop the Smart Access system and make a more practical watch than they ever did before.

An Incredible Watch Brand

It’s safe to say that nowadays, every serious watch collector has one G-Shock in their collection. Many of them have one statement piece from each year and they always have hundreds of models to choose from.

Even if you aren’t a collector, you must appreciate the appeal of this watch. After all, G-Shock didn’t develop from a simple challenge for making an unbreakable product to one of the most successful business endeavors for no reason.

The rate that Casio is able to come up with new additions is astounding, not to mention that many of these new innovations were developed with groundbreaking technology. While they always tried to stay true to their original mission, the creators of G-Shock still managed to cater to everyone’s needs.

Apart from being equipped with sensors for calculating directions and barometers for measuring altitude, the G-Shock is also useful for measuring temperature, radio-controlled atomic timekeeping, and has many more great functions. Not only that, but it was the first Bluetooth-connected watch that ever existed.

When it comes to the future, Casio engineers are still promising us more. They are constantly working on taking things to a new level with modern materials and even more options for collectors, and we can expect many more iterations of this special watch in the years to come.

But in the last few years, whiskey stones have come onto the market and changed the game. You can now just grab a couple of stones without worrying about having a freezer full of ice cubes. They also don’t dilute your drink so they’re the perfect solution, right?

Well, the answer is a little more complex than a simple yes or no. Here we take a closer look at the whiskey stones vs. ice debate and see which one is perfect for you!

The Problem

Chat to any whiskey lover, and one thing you learn is each one has an opinion on the perfect way to taste the fabled spirit. Some prefer a splash of water, others like it chilled, and some drink it neat. Of course, if you fall into the chilled category, then you would have used ice countless times.

The classic problem with ice happens whether you are sipping whiskey, coke or any other type of drink. It will eventually melt and soon you’ll have your favorite drink with an extra helping of water. For many people, that’s not ideal.

That’s why the idea of whiskey stones is so intriguing. These stones are usually made from either soapstone or granite, with others being made from stainless steel. They are nonporous so once you’ve used them, you can give them a quick rinse and put them back in the freezer.

There are many different types of stones available which is perfect for whiskey lovers who fear a diluted drink. While it sounds great in theory, there are some downsides. Firstly, let’s take a look at the scientific differences between them.

Cooling Efficiency

You may presume that both whiskey stones and ice will cool down a drink in the exact same way but it’s not really true. They both have their pros and cons in this regard. In essence, it’s a contrast in the time it takes to cool your drink.

Traditional ice is better at chilling your drink more quickly. As the ice melts, that cold water circulates around the whole glass very quickly and brings the temperature rapidly down. Ice also has a high surface area, which is ideal for rapid cooling.

Whiskey stones take longer as you are solely relying on the stones cooling down the water molecules right next to it. This is a slower heat transfer and therefore you have to wait a little longer for the stones to have the same cooling effect.

The benefit of whiskey stones can come if you are a slow drinker. While ice will cool down your drink quicker, they also melt. If you want your cooling to be over a more sustained period then whiskey stones can be a great choice.

There is also a scientific reason here too. Ice has a higher heat capacity than stones, which means it’s a more effective way of cooling your drink. Whiskey stones can still be highly effective but ice is still the king of cool.

Dilution

Here is the massive difference between whiskey and ice: unless you’re a dangerously quick drinker, that ice is going to eventually turn into water. That water then dilutes your drink and takes the edge off your whiskey.

Many presume that’s a bad thing but that is entirely down to personal preference. Whiskey is a notoriously harsh drink to have on its own, especially for those who aren’t used to drinking it straight.

Having a little water can help make it easier to drink and reduce the alcohol-proof percentage. If you’re prone to coughing when drinking straight whiskey, then you’ll probably appreciate it being a little softer.

There is, however, an even more important consideration than that. Even if you’re a hardened whiskey drinker who loves drinking it straight, there are advantages to adding a little splash of water into the mix.

Your taste buds find it hard to pick out the nuances of a high-proof whiskey. Adding water to it in the form of melted ice helps to open up the whiskey. It can bring out the individual taste notes while also allowing its aroma to gently rise up into your nostrils.

For many whiskey tasters, they don’t think that’s required. They’d prefer to taste their whiskey in all its glory. There are people like myself who almost take pleasure from the harshness of drinking straight whiskey without ice.

I never have ice in my whiskey as I don’t want it to be diluted. If I’m drinking an expensive whiskey, I’ll perhaps try it with a drop of water to see what it’s like but for the most part, dilution is not something I am looking for.

This is where it’s all about personal preference. Some see dilution as inherently bad, which is wrong. It does have its advantages but if you prefer to drink whiskey the way it’s bottled then whiskey stones may be a great idea.

Practicality

This comes down to personal preference too. Which one is more practical? As is the case with much of the debate, it’s not a black or white question. You may think the obvious answer is whiskey stones but there’s more to it than that.

Ice takes up a lot of space. Unless you have an ice maker or a huge freezer, this can be an annoying issue. Not only do you need to have half a drawer full of ice but you have to often go to the store to get a new bag. You can, of course, make your own but this takes time and effort.

Whiskey stones solve these problems. Most of them either come with a protective bag or box, which you can place anywhere in the freezer and get them out when you want. It takes up much less space than ice and they are reusable.

The downside to whiskey stones can come from their freezing time. Say you have eight whiskey stones and use two per glass. You’ll quickly run out of frozen stones to use in your whiskey as they take around four hours to get back to optimal temperature.

If you drink quickly, or more than one person is using the stones, then this can be a big issue. You may end up needing dozens of stones so you always have frozen ones available. This then adds another problem of trying to remember which stones are cold and which aren’t.

Other Considerations

Feel

The sensation of using whiskey stones and ice is very different. Many people like that feeling of the ice slipping down your glass and then settling on your lips. The cold whiskey then comes through them for the perfect drink.

For whiskey stones, it’s a little different. Instead of ice slipping down the glass, you have a couple of rocks falling down the glass and into your teeth. It means that you need to be a little more careful about how you’re titling your glass.

When they do reach your mouth, you then have the sensation of cool stone on your lips instead of cold ice. Many people like that sensation but it’s something that is worth considering.

Sound

Hearing ice clanking next to a glass is one of those classic sounds that has been heard throughout our lives and in countless movies and TV shows. For most people, this isn’t an inconvenience and it’s not particularly loud.

In contrast, the sound of stones or metal banging on the glass is a little harsher and more jarring. When using whiskey stones, it can be harder to have a relaxing quiet drink. This is not a big deal by any means but it may put you off using them.

Safety

Using whiskey stones can feel a little odd as the banging of stone against the glass can be a little disconcerting. Even though the stones are rounded and polished, you are also much more likely to scratch the glass. If you have expensive glasses, this can be a problem.

In an incredibly obvious statement, if you drink whiskey, you’re going to get drunk. As you do, whiskey stones can present more of a choking hazard. You’ll also probably forget to put them back in the freezer.

Final Verdict

So which one is better? As you may have guessed already, the answer is that it depends on your personal preference. Whiskey stones are perfect for those who don’t like to have their drink diluted but still want the sensation of cold whiskey.

Ice is great for those who don’t mind a little dilution, want their drink chilled quicker and like the convenience of grabbing a couple of ice cubes. There is no right answer here but most people immediately think whiskey stones are a great idea but as we’d seen, they do have significant downsides.

A great in-between solution is to use much bigger ice cubes than you normally would. The lower surface area means that the dilution is going to be much slower while you still get all the advantages of using ice.

We tried to be as balanced as possible here and hopefully, now you have a much clearer picture of whether or not whiskey stones are right for you. Whether you use them or not, we hope you keep enjoying your whiskey.