travel news near leeds

Traffic and travel

The latest traffic and travel news for Yorkshire including breaking traffic updates, news about the M62, A1M, M1, A64 and M18 as well as road closures, roadworks, trains, buses and more.

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Leeds traffic news: Latest updates on closures, accidents and roadworks across the city

We will bring you the latest news on major roads such as the M62, M621, M1, and A1, as well as other thoroughfares across the city

• Updated 06:12, 13 JUN 2023

Welcome to our Leeds traffic news blog with live updates for the M62 , M621, M1 , and A1 and across the city.

Here you'll find live updates on traffic accidents and delays on the roads near you, with updates from National Highways, West Yorkshire Police and our traffic partners INRIX.

Scroll down for the latest traffic news including road works and diversions, road closures and live updates on train services , buses and other public transport in Leeds and across Yorkshire.

Read more: Why sleeping with a fan on in hot weather could be really damaging to your health

Our reporters will be keeping a close eye on the roads across the morning rush hour, throughout the day, the evening rush hour and into the evening.

Want to let us know about an incident causing problems near you? If you can do so safely, email [email protected], tweet @leedslivenews or contact us on Facebook here .

Accident cleared on Recreation View

Accident cleared on Recreation View near Crosby Road.

Accident on Recreation View

Reports of accident on Recreation View near Crosby Road. Traffic is coping well.

A650 Southbound closed due to accident

A650 Sir Fred Hoyle Way Southbound closed, queueing traffic due to accident from B6265 (Castlefields Industrial Estate Roundabout) to Leonard Street.

Incident occurred at around 07:45 which has since closed the road.

M621 Eastbound cleared

M621 Eastbound exit slip road clear, traffic easing, earlier vehicle fire at J2 A643 (Elland Road). Previous congestion to Stanningley Road through Armley, Whitehall Road through Wortley and queues on the A6110 Ring road stretching back to almost Farnley.

M62 Westbound, slow traffic

Slow traffic on M62 Westbound around J29 M1 J42 (Lofthouse). In the roadworks area.

M621 eastbound exit slip road closed due to vehicle fire

M621 Eastbound exit slip road blocked, queueing traffic due to vehicle fire at J2 A643 (Elland Road). Congestion to before J1 (Beeston / Farnley).

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Leeds travel guide

What to do, where to stay and why you’ll love it.

L eeds’ mettle was forged in the fires of the Industrial Revolution, which sealed its fate as a city of warehouses, grain stores and wharfs, with a scattering of sumptuous Victorian shopping arcades built on mercantile wealth. Today its charm is hard to measure by volume of tourist attractions or the calibre of its museums — of which there are few — but the city has spent the past decade dusting off its industrial relics and polishing its Victorian landmarks to create a buzzy personality.

A substantial student population keeps things lively, but in the past decade the city centre has thrown off its grungy image and moved increasingly upmarket. West Yorkshire’s largest city is an unabashed hedonist with plenty of winning options for bars, restaurants and retail. Its proximity to the Yorkshire Dales and country estates such as Harewood House and Temple Newsam is another draw.

People from the north of England flock here for shopping, weekend blowouts and events such as big-ticket theatre and Test cricket at Headingley. Channel 4’s relocation to Leeds has also put a renewed swagger in its step, helping to cement its position as Yorkshire’s cultural nexus . Plans are progressing for a year of culture in 2023, which got the green light after Brexit scuppered the city’s bid for European Capital of Culture.

This article contains links from which we may earn revenue. These links are signposted with an asterisk. More information here .

High-brow art fans should factor in time to explore Leeds’ half of the Yorkshire Sculpture Triangle, Leeds Art Gallery and the Henry Moore Institute. Afterwards, take measure of Leeds’ Victorian wealth with a pit stop in the art gallery’s colonnaded tiled café before pottering around the ornate covered shopping lanes signposted off Briggate.

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The best of these is the Victoria Quarter, where fountains and a grand piano set the scene for small designer stores beneath a stained-glass canopy. Dip into nearby Kirkgate Market, which still has a beautifully preserved hall of Victorian stalls off Vicar Lane, and a green commemorative clock marking the spot where Marks & Spencer launched its business in 1884.

Hop aboard the canary-yellow water taxi from lively Granary Wharf to sail past old warehouses to the Royal Armouries at Leeds Dock. This national museum holds one of the largest collections of arms and armoury in the world, with more than 45,000 objects, from 17th-century sabres to Mughal elephant chainmail. Walk an hour west from the city centre along the canal towpath to Leeds Industrial Museum to learn about West Yorkshire’s textile-manufacturing heyday.

You could also set aside some time to visit Kirkstall Abbey’s ruins. Founded in 1152 by Cistercian monks and now a suburban riverside park, it’s a 30-minute bus ride from Leeds city centre. It’s free to wander, and hosts popular food markets, cinema nights and festive pop-ups.

Where to stay

Leeds is undergoing a spate of hotel renovations and reopenings. There’s plenty of choice in the city centre, be it historical grande dames and slick contemporary chains or no-frills budget options and serviced apartments — but it lacks small trendy, boutique hotels.

Convenient for those arriving by train, the Queens* is directly linked to the station by its own private entranceway. It emerged from a £16 million redevelopment in summer 2021, reinstating the art deco behemoth’s rightful billing as one of the most desirable addresses in Leeds. Near by, Dakota* is another landmark hotel: very new, very slick, and very much on-trend thanks to visiting VIPs and celebrities.

Granary Wharf, at the Leeds to Liverpool canal basin, is the most atmospheric area of the city centre to bed down in. It’s the sort of place where locals crowd waterside bars and restaurants to watch boats slide by over glugs of craft beer and fairylight mirrors in the water after sundown. The area’s regeneration has taken off in tandem with its longstanding Double Tree by Hilton* , notable for its high south-facing roof terrace bar overlooking the canal.

Food and drink

Leeds has a stonkingly good independent food and drink scene built on a staunch appreciation of Yorkshire produce, passionate local chefs and imaginative branding. Beware, though, that lots of the best central options around Briggate and the Headrow have discreet entrances and are not immediately obvious to passers-by. One of these is Headrow House, which hosts the intimate British grill restaurant Ox Club inside a small 20th-century textile mill complex set back from the street.

Above the Headrow, North Street is a foodie strip grounded by the Reliance gastropub, known for natural wines and homemade charcuterie. It’s in the Northern Quarter — the star of which is indie favourite Belgrave Music Hall and the boisterous strip of small bars spilling down Merrion Street. Try legendary, sticky-floored Mojo for buzzy, wallet-friendly drinks.

For fine dining there’s Michael O’Hare’s Michelin-starred Man Behind the Curtain (bookings open five months ahead) and former MasterChef semi-finalist Liz Cottam’s Home. Kirkgate Market is also an unexpected hive of quality food — Cottam’s darkly lit Owl occupies Game Row, flying the flag for contemporary Yorkshire gastro-grub. There are cheap, tasty global food trucks inside a cavernous street-food hangar at the eastern end of the market.

Back on Briggate, you’ll find a number of small alleyways that hide pubs; the very best of these is Turk’s Head Yard, a narrow artery hosting ornately panelled Whitelock’s and the deco-inspired Turk’s Head bar.

Call Lane is the spiritual home of the city centre bar crawl, running amok on weekends, while the waterside bars at Granary Wharf are more low-key. Keep an eye out for Chow Down open-air events too. Lower Briggate is Leeds’ LGBTQI+ heartland, with Fibre and Viaduct Showbar two notable, friendly venues.

Beer is built into the DNA of Leeds, and indeed all of Yorkshire. The old Tetley headquarters has been converted into a restaurant-cum-gallery, but a number of craft breweries have taken up the mantle.

Award-winning Northern Monk’s brewery and exposed-brick taproom occupy a grade II listed flax mill in the Holbeck conservation area, south of Granary Wharf. Come to taste test special releases and then wander round the scattered mill relics.

North Brewing Co is the other big local craft brewery, with two bars in the city centre and a sprinkling in the suburbs, as well as a huge, shiny new taproom at Springwell — worth the short taxi ride north of the city centre. It’s especially good fun in warmer weather, when DJs spin tunes outside, razor-sharp servers circulate taking orders for beers, and the outside grills are fired up for Little Bao Asian street food.

Head 1.5 miles further north up the same road and you can make it a taproom crawl with a stop at laid-back Meanwood Brewery, a suburban favourite. Back in the north of the city centre, there’s also Assembly Underground, the neon-lit, clubby Leeds home of Hebden Bridge’s Vocation brewery.

Know before you go

If shopping is on the agenda, plan for the fact that many independent stores close on Sundays in Leeds. Likewise, culture-seekers should note that most Leeds museums don’t open on Mondays. The pint-sized city centre is easy to cover on foot, and Uber is a good option for longer distances. It’s best to leave the car at home unless you plan to travel around Yorkshire to see the Dales, visit the Yorkshire Sculpture Park, or stroll round nearby country estates.

Take me there

Inspired to visit Leeds but yet to book your trip? Here are the best hotels from Booking.com* and Hotels.com* .

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Traffic Leeds

•   Leeds
• Nearby: Leeds Wakefield Dewsbury Poole Bradford Wetherby

Current traffic around Leeds

The following traffic incidents and congestion for Leeds have been reported by Highways England, Traffic Scotland, Traffic Wales or Transport for London (TfL) in the last two hours:

Traffic in Nearby Villages

• Sheepscar (0.65mi)
• Richmond Hill (0.78mi)
• Woodhouse (0.99mi)
• Pottery Field (1.08mi)
• Holbeck (1.23mi)
• Knowsthorpe (1.25mi)
• Harehills (1.26mi)
• Burmantofts (1.26mi)
• Osmondthorpe (1.33mi)
• Potternewton (1.41mi)
• Miles Hill (1.53mi)
• Gledhow (1.54mi)
• New Wortley (1.63mi)
• Cross Green (1.65mi)
• Hunslet (1.7mi)
• Beeston Hill (1.8mi)
• Burley (1.85mi)
• Headingley (1.87mi)
• Killingbeck (1.88mi)
• Gipton Wood (1.88mi)
• Oakwood (1.88mi)
• Armley (1.9mi)
• Chapel Allerton (2.03mi)
• Gipton (2.03mi)

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Leeds blog — the fullest leeds travel guide for first-timers.

Not a too prominent name like London, Edinburgh or Oxford, but Leeds has a unique charm unlike any other city. If you are looking for a lesser known destination that is still full of surprises and interesting things, then Leeds is an ideal choice. So, is Leeds worth visiting, what to do in Leeds and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Leeds for the first-time? Let’s check out our Leeds blog (Leeds travel blog) with the fullest Leeds travel guide (Leeds guide, guide to Leeds, Leeds tourist guide, Leeds city guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit, what to eat and top things to do in Leeds to find out the answer!

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Overview of Leeds (#leeds blog)

Leeds is the largest city in the West Yorkshire region of England with colorful and nostalgic houses and buildings by the river Aire. The city was formerly said to have been named Loidis as recorded by Saint Bede – he was also known by another name The Venerable Bede – who was a famous scholar of the Anglo-Saxon period (410-1066AD).

This is considered an ancient Welsh-speaking land which was part of the Kingdom of Northumbria. Another theory is that Loidis may also have been the name of a tribe meaning “people of the flowing river” – reminiscent of the Aire River today. In the Middle Ages, Loidis changed to Leedis and later Leeds became the official name.

If London is considered the fashion capital of the South, then Leeds and  Manchester  compete for the top position in fashion in the North. So when you come to Leeds, you will not be surprised by the very stylish fashion of the locals. Leeds is famous for its shopping centers and fashion festivals take place that always attract fashion companies and shopaholics.

Leeds city is located in a convenient location, close to the Aire river and this is also a famous cultural center, regularly taking place many big events such as: Leeds Festival, Leeds International Concert Season, Leeds International Film Festival, etc.

The beginning of the prosperity of Leeds must be mentioned in the Victorian era (1830-1900). This was the boom period of industrial revolution, literature, art, engineering, architecture and fashion. Great Britain during this period was extremely prosperous and Leeds became known as the center of the wool industry and Manchester took a unique position in cotton. Therefore, this place has been invested to become a center of fashion right from the Victorian era until now.

Despite being a big city, the cost of living in Leeds is much cheaper than other major cities in the UK. According to data from the website Expatistan, Leeds ranks 6th in the UK Cost of Living index. Relatively 30% cheaper than living in London.

Compared to other cities in the UK, Leeds is somewhat less well known and little information about the city. To be honest, at first, I didn’t expect much from Leeds either. But when I come to Leeds, I was surprised by the beauty of the city.

Once a bustling trading hub for England, Leeds’ tourist attractions are all tied to economic activity. Must mention such as Leeds Corn Exchange, Kirkgate Market… Despite experiencing many ups and downs of history, the city still retains its traditional beauty with nostalgic buildings amidst a bustling pace of life.

Culture and life: Located in the heart of England, the city of Leeds still retains its traditional beauty with nostalgic buildings by the river Aire. In addition, there are many theaters and museums that make visitors impressed with the magnificent beauty of these works.

This is also the city where the most famous universities in the UK are located, with around 200,000 students from 100 countries. Multinational companies such as Adsa, Capita, First Direct… are all located here, this is an opportunity for students to develop their career right after graduation.

When should you travel to Leeds? (#leeds travel guide)

Exploring the city of Leeds, if you come at the right time, you will have many interesting experiences. The peak tourist season in Leeds is in the period from July to September, in which August is the most crowded. However, because it is the peak tourist season, everything is quite expensive.

And if you want to save money on travel to Leeds, come here around April and November. The weather is not very favorable, so very few people want to go to Leeds at this time, so the service price sharply drops. However, before planning a trip, you just need to pay attention to the weather forecast, it will not affect the trip.

How to get to Leeds? (#leeds travel guide)

With a convenient transport system, you can easily go to Leeds from other UK cities. You can use train, coach and even plane.

But getting around in the UK, you should still take the train because it’s comfortable and fast (but it’s expensive). I also took the train from Nottingham to Leeds. Go up to check the tickets that was being discounted, so pack my bags and go.

• Buy UK train tickets at www.nationalrail.co.uk and coach tickets at www.nationalexpress.com .
• Traveling within the UK, students should make cards 16-25 to get cheap fares. And this card can be borrowed together by Asians to save money (because the conductor on the train is not free to look at each person’s face in the picture, and especially for Asians, they are even more hesitant to watch carefully).

Getting around Leeds (#leeds guide)

To getting from the suburbs to the center of Leeds or traveling within the city, you can buy a FirstDay Leeds ticket for around £4 (or a FirstWeek ticket for £14.50). You will be allowed to ride on any bus within the Leeds metropolitan area. You can also buy a single bus ticket for £1.

Like other cities in the UK, the city of Leeds has a fairly convenient transport network. But because the city is small, you can easily walk to tourist attractions.

Except for Kirkstall Abbey, it’s a bit far. To get here, you can take a bus or call a car on ride-hailing apps. We check the price, it’s cheaper to take Uber, so we called the car on Uber.

What to do & where to go in Leeds? (#leeds tourist guide)

Civic quarter (#leeds tourist guide).

Located in the center, known as the city square. This is an ideal walking place when traveling to Leeds. Coming here, visitors can freely admire famous works such as: Black Prince statue, the City Town Hall building, statue of inventor James Watt, Leeds Civic Hall,… ensure this tourist attraction will bring you many interesting experiences.

Civic Quarter is known as a pedestrian area like Town Square in the heart of Leeds. Famous for many precious statues, including the Black Prince and James Watt inventor.

In addition, Civic Quarter also owns an art gallery since 1988 in Victoria Square. With a collection from British artists J.S. Cotman (1782-1842), Italian and French artisans such as Courbet, Renoir and Signac. An ideal spot for art lovers.

Kirkstall Abbey (#leeds blog)

If you have time, you should visit the Kirkstall Abbey dating back to the Middle Ages. Only about 3 miles from the city center and 10 minutes by bus. Although only ruins, Kirkstall is a beautiful structure that evokes the history of the Cistercian Order. And visitors are free to walk right in the park by the Aire river to enjoy a peaceful Leeds.

Although no longer intact, Kirkstall Abbey is the most popular tourist attraction in Leeds. Partly because of the historical value that the building keeps, but also because of the beauty from the ruins.

Although there are just walls or pillars left, but they are telling a story. When I saw the picture of Kirkstall Abbey, I wanted to go there.

• Address: Abbey Rd, Kirkstall, Leeds LS5 3EH, U
• Opening hours: 10AM – 16:30PM (Closed on Mondays)
• Ticket price: £5.00 (If you are a Leeds citizen, you will not need a ticket)

Kirkgate Market (#leeds blog)

Leeds Kirkgate Market is located on Vicar Lane. This is the largest covered market in Europe with 800 stalls. First opened in 1822. The old yellow stalls inside the market make me fall in love.

Leeds has so many markets, but I didn’t have enough time, so I just had to observe and then rush to mingle with the crowds to see the Victoria Quarter. This is a place to sell high-end fashion items dating back to 1900. And that’s not all. The grand market opened in 1897 or the The Queen’s Theatre was built in 1898. These are fine examples of Victorian architecture that are sure to please those who take the time to visit.

Kirkgate Market is one of the largest indoor markets in Europe. If you look from the outside you will not think this is a market (because it looks so gentle, I thought it was a post office).

Inside the market there are many shops, but most especially Mark & ​​Spencer (a famous retail chain in the UK). This is the brand’s first store. In order to preserve the company’s heritage, in 2013 Mark & ​​Spence set up a souvenir stall inside the market.

To reveal more to you, there is a shop selling Vietnamese bread in the market. If you miss the taste of your hometown, you can try out to support the restaurant.

• Address: Vicar Lane, Leeds City Center LS2 7HY
• Opening hours: 8AM – 5:30PM
• Ticket price: Free
• Web: https://www.leeds.gov.uk/leedsmarkets

Leeds Town Hall (#leeds travel blog)

Leeds Town Hall is one of the most prominent buildings in Leeds. Built in the 19th century, with the purpose of showing the prosperity of the reign of Queen Victoria. Therefore, the grandeur of the work is not inferior to the town halls in big cities. And Leeds Town Hall is one of the largest city halls in the UK.

However, with the presence of the Leeds Civic Hall and the relocation of many ministries, the building is now used as a convention and conference center.

Address: The Headrow, Leeds LS1 3AD, United Kingdom

St John the Evangelist’s Church (#guide to leeds)

If you want to explore the old architecture in Leeds, you definitely cannot miss the St John’s Church. Built in 1634, with a unique and impressive design, this place has attracted the attention of many visitors. Stepping inside the church, you will be overwhelmed by the interior and bold Renaissance architecture.

Address: 23 New Briggate, Leeds LS2 8JD, United Kingdom

Millennium Square

Millennium Square is the central square in Leeds, where special city activities take place. The square is surrounded by prominent city structures such as Leeds Civic Hall, Leeds Town Hall, The Carriageworks Theater and Leeds City Museum.

Leeds Civic Hall (#leeds city guide)

Wandering the streets of Leeds gave me an unforgettable memory. In the chilly air, occasional gusts of wind make passersby shiver in fashionable outfits. The centuries-old buildings in this city still defy the weather.

Centrally located in Millennium Square is the Leeds Civic Hall. This is the city’s town hall, replacing Leeds Town Hall since 1933. The special feature of the building is located in 2 gold-leafed twin towers on both sides of 2.3m high. In each tower, there is an owl statue at the top and gold-plated clocks on both sides.

Architect Vincent Harris who designed and built it from 1853-1858. Leeds Civic Hall was opened by King George V and Queen Mary in August 1933. And it costs 360,000 pounds to build this beautiful structure.

Address: Calverley St, Leeds LS1 1UR, United Kingdom

Leeds Corn Exchange

One of England’s oldest Victorian buildings was designed and built by Cuthbert Brodrick from 1861 to 1864. The building looks like a crown that holds architectural significance and cultural symbolism. This is a must-see for anyone who loves architecture. And admiring fashion items as well as beautiful vintage items.

In the heart of Leeds city center stands a preserved Victorian building, the Leeds Corn Exchange. This is one of only three corn exchange that still function as a commercial center in the UK (actually no longer functioning as a corn trading spot).

The architecture inside the Leeds Corn Exchange is different from what many people imagine. The shops here are decorated and decorated in a vintage style, so you can easily find many beautiful corners.

Address: Call Ln, Leeds LS1 7BR, United Kingdom Hours: 10AM–6PM/Thursday: 10AM–9PM/Sunday: 10:30AM–4:30PM Ticket price: Free Web: https://www.leedscornexchange.co.uk/

Headrow and Briggate

If you don’t know where to go when traveling to Leeds, consider heading to Headrow and Briggate. A neighborhood with friendly people, with shopping malls springing up in series… There will be nothing more wonderful than being immersed in the lives of the people here, learning about the beauty of British culture, and being able to go shopping at very low prices.

Headrow is home to many cultural attractions, such as the West Yorkshire Playhouse, considered the largest theater outside London and one of the oldest living music halls in the world.

Leeds City Museum

The Leeds Museum is not only a place to display artifacts associated with the history of the city’s formation and development, but also has artifacts discovered from civilizations around the world such as India, Egypt, and Greece.

In addition to the exhibits, visitors can also experience virtual reality technology. This is my favorite point in Leeds City Museum, because this virtual reality experience will make sightseeing not boring.

• Address: Millennium Square, Leeds LS2 8BH, UK
• Opening hours: 10AM – 5PM (Closed on Mondays)
• Web: https://museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk/leeds-city-museum/

Royal Armouries Museum

In Leeds, in addition to visit the Leeds City Museum to learn about the history of Yorkshire. You can also go to the Royal Armories Museum – which showcases weapons and armor from around the world

One of the most famous tourist attractions in Leeds, look no further than the Royal Armouries Museum. This is a place to store more than 8,500 artifacts dating back about 3,000 years. The artifacts here are mainly related to weapons and armor. Coming to the weapons museum, besides seeing the antiques, you also have the opportunity to understand more about the formation of the arms, weapons as well as the heroic resistance history of the people here.

Chasing the Minerva (Statue of goddess Minerva) incarnated in the form of an owl

The symbol of Leeds that can be seen on the shield with a history of nearly 200 years is three owls and a sheep. The sheep is associated with the Greek myth about the hero Jason in search of the golden fleece, while the associated with wisdom and intelligence.

An interesting thing for visitors is that you can become a detective to track down the owls. You will be surprised to discover they are present in so many places, it can be a striking golden statue, cast iron statues perched on a fence or an owl quietly lurking on the wall of an old building or a statue at 40-51 Briggate, Leeds LS1 6BR, United Kingdom.

With a music-loving soul, visitors will be immersed in the nightlife in Leeds. Experience this great atmosphere at Call Lane – where hundreds of cafes, restaurants, bars with different regional styles. Especially the Leeds Festival – a colorful music festival that takes place every August.

In Leeds, you have a wide variety of shopping options, depending on your budget. You can go to famous shopping centers. With many mid-range and high-end brands, in leading shopping malls such as: Trinity Leeds, Victoria Leeds or White Rose Shopping Centre.

What and where to eat?

The addresses of delicious restaurants in Leeds.

Leeds is also a place where anyone who is passionate about food is spoiled for choice. Typically Yorkshire pudding in any restaurant or in a bar to enjoy the atmosphere in a strange city.

Besides discovering the beauty of the city, enjoying the food here also gives you memorable memories of your trip. Some famous and good restaurants in Leeds, you can refer to such as:

Man V Roast

The restaurant is famous for its excellent delectable grilled meat. The meats here are imported from Skyer House Farm, so the quality is safe, as well as the delicious meat taste. In particular, the restaurant not only serves right at the spot, but if you do not have much time, or want to save money, you can come here to buy foods and bring them home.

Address: 144 Cardigan Rd, Burley, Leeds LS6 1LU, United Kingdom Hours: 8AM–6PM/Monday; Saturday: Closed

Discovering the city’s cuisine at Teppanyaki restaurant is also a great choice. This famous restaurant specializes in serving Japanese dishes such as: Sushi, Yakitori, chicken curry, etc. The dishes are prepared according to the authentic recipe, bringing an irresistible delicious taste.

Address: Belgrave Hall, Belgrave St, Leeds LS2 8DD, United Kingdom Hours: 6–10PM/Friday: 6–11PM/Saturday: 4:30–11PM/Monday: Closed

Zaap Thai Street Food Leeds

Zaap restaurant is also a favorite stop for diners. Because coming here you not only can enjoy Thai delicious food at the restaurant is decorated beautifully and impressively, bringing many the most beautiful virtual living angles when coming to Zaap. Some of the most iconic dishes at the restaurant you should enjoy such as: Dim Sum, soups, grilled meat, curry dishes…

Address: 22 Grand Arcade, Leeds LS1 6PG, United Kingdom Hours: 12–10PM/Friday/Saturday: 12–11PM

Abyssinia Cafe and Restaurant

Coming to the city without visiting Abyssinia restaurant is a mistake in experiencing the cuisine here. Because the restaurant’s dishes are famous for their delicious, attractive and different flavors compared to other restaurants. You can enjoy dishes such as: Stewed lamb, stewed chicken, steak…

Address: 12 Ashley Rd, Harehills, Leeds LS9 7AB, United Kingdom Hours: 12–10PM

Where to stay?

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Dakota Leeds ( Agoda , Booking )
• Jurys Inn Leeds ( Agoda , Booking )
• Clayton Hotel Leeds ( Agoda , Booking )
• Park Plaza Leeds ( Agoda , Booking )
• Malmaison Leeds ( Agoda , Booking )
• ibis Styles Leeds City Centre Arena ( Agoda , Booking )
• DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Leeds City Centre ( Agoda , Booking )
• Novotel Leeds Centre ( Agoda , Booking )

Check out more top and best hotels in Leeds on Agoda.com or Booking.com

Suggested Leeds itinerary

Leeds city is quite small, only need to go in 1 day to see all the attractions. You can go in two ways:

• Visit the attractions in the center first and then go to Kirkstall Abbey.
• Go to Kirkstall Abbey first and then go back to the central spots.

I chose the 2nd way, after arriving in Leeds, I went to Kirkstall Abbey right away, then turn around and go back to visit the attractions in the city center.

• I recommend everyone to use Three SIM card because this sim can be used in the UK and Europe, and it is easy to buy. You can buy at the following link.
• Always remember to stand on the right and give way to others when using escalators in the UK.
• Leeds is quite small, only visiting for 1 day is enough, you do not need to stay overnight unless you want to explore Leeds in a slow way. And room rates in Leeds are more expensive than in Manchester and there are not many choices anymore.

At first, I didn’t have much hope for Leeds, just thinking of simply finding a place to hang out to not be bored. But Leeds really surprised me because it was much more beautiful than I thought.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Leeds you can refer to

• Airport Flyer from Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) to Leeds City Center or Bradford Interchange Bus Station
• Leeds Castle Ticket in Kent
• Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, and Dover Full Day Tour from London
• Leeds Castle, Canterbury, Dover, & Greenwich River Day Tour and Boat Ride from London
• Leeds Castle, Canterbury, Dover, and Greenwich Day Tour from London
• From Leeds: Yorkshire Dales Emmerdale Locations Bus Tour
• Leeds: 2-Hour Highlights Walking Tour
• Leeds: Emmerdale Village Set Guided Tour
• London Travelcard
• London Explorer Pass
• London Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tours (Open-Top)

Are you looking for more top things to do in London : Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here . And Where should I go in London? — 21 top famous places to go, see & best places to visit in London.

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Both sides were circumspect, Leeds strong favourites to progress after taking a goalless draw back to Elland Road having finished the regular season 17 points clear of Norwich

• 2d ago FULL TIME: Norwich City 0-0 Leeds United
• 2d ago HALF-TIME: Norwich City 0-0 Leeds United
• 2d ago Teams!
• 2d ago Preamble

Righto, Ben Bloom’s match report is here, which means that’s us. Enjoy the rest of the weekend and the indecent mount of sport we’ll be bringing to you. Love.

What a moment this must’ve been for Thomas Frank yesterday, to see the love his players have for him. Lovely stuff.

Brentford manager Thomas Frank was on the touchline vs. Bournemouth Saturday, only one day after his father passed away. When Bryan Mbeumo opened the scoring, Bees players ran across to celebrate with Frank & later dedicated their victory to the boss. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/rOLTVKmu1e — Men in Blazers (@MenInBlazers) May 12, 2024

At The Hawthorns, the teams are on the pitch.

I enjoyed this interview, though it’s not a football one – and not just because Lewis managed to insert his favourite phrase, “pugilist specialist”.

Imagine being this likeable.

At Wembley, Spurs are in white suits. They’d better win, lest they become forever known as the Spice Girls.

I guess I fancy Southampton to see off West Brom in the other semi, but like Norwich and Leeds, neither side finished their league campaign in decent form. Though both sides lost three of their last four games, Saints extra class should be enough, especially given they are at home second, again with the advantage of a nighttime kickoff.

Kenny McLean notes that first legs are usually cagey and thinks Norwich can play much better, especially with the ball. He accepts that his team have missed an opportunity but also thinks they can get at Leeds come Thursday.

I said at the start that Norwich getting their home game as a lunchtime kick-off and in the heat, relative to Leeds playing a night match at Elland Road, might be key in this tie; I still think that now.

FULL TIME: Norwich City 0-0 Leeds United

Leeds will be the happier with that, the more controlled side with the greater firepower returning home needing just a win to reach Wembley. But Norwich will fancy themselves too, their attacking edge more than enough to nick a goal or two if they defend well.

90+3 min So how do these sides approach the second leg? I guess Leeds will go for it, on the basis that even if they get caught once, they’d expect to score at least twice, while Norwich sit deep and seek counters. It’s going to be a nervous night at Elland Road.

90+1 min Don Goodman declares Marcelino Núñez player of the match; personally I’d have gone for RON, re-open nominations.

90 min We’ll have four additional minutes.

90 min James battles through Nunez, who loses control of the ball, swinging over a decent cross that none of his mates has the gas or gumption to attack.

88 min And here comes James, replacing Summerville. I’m a little surprised at that change, the new man most useful with the game stretched – which it isn’t – with the one he’s replacing more likely to conjure a winner against a narrow, disciplined defence – which is required.

86 min On the touchline, Dan James readies himself to come on while, on the pitch, the aforementioned Kamara fouls Sara … who’s free-kick drifts behind.

84 min “It’s surely only a matter of time before the football authorities introduce a reality TV element to the play-offs,” predicts Simon McMahon. “Maybe a public vote in the event of a draw, with the losing team being told, in best Chef Ramsay style, to hand in their boots and get the expletive out of the stadium. A sure-fire ratings winner, don’t you think?”

I’m pay good money to see what happened if he put slices of break on Kamara’s cheeks then advised him that he’s an idiot sandwich.

82 min Oh man, potential bad news for Norwich: Sargent is down and doesn’t look happy. I think that’ll be him done for today, and Wagner will hope it’s nothing too serious. He’s replaced by Sydney van Hooijdonk – son of Pierre.

81 min It feels like the second half has been a preview of the second leg: Leeds pushing, Norwich hoping for a counter, and when Summerville and Gray link nicely, the latter’s shot is blocked behind. Then, when the corner reaches Anthony, has has time to make an angle for a curler before sending it straight into Gunn’s midriff.

79 min Leeds have their full-backs high and wide now, Gruev switching play and Byram finding Anthony, whose cross is blocked behind for a corner. It’s a while since Norwich mustered any kind of attack, and though the get the corner away, they remain boxed until someone scythes aimlessly clear.

76 min Kamara is starting to dictate the tempo here, lending the ball out before taking it back. Leeds will be wondering if they can snaffle a win here, which might just offer opportunity to Norwich. But as I type, the visitors win a free-kick down the right, plenty of men on the edge as Gray swerves in … and Byram’s attempted scorpion kick – no that is not a misprint – sends the ball behind.

75 min Wagner knows he has to act and does, replacing Giannoulis with McCallum.

74 min Leeds are dictating the pace of the game now, Norwich hoping to hit them on the counter. Much as they want to win this, they now they can’t afford a defeat, hence their circumspection.

73 min It’s hot out there and that’s beginning to tell on the pitch, the game slowing a little. Norwich are struggling to find space now as Leeds seek to close spaces, not unhappy with the status quo.

71 min It’s a double-change for Leeds, Anthony and Piroe for Rutter and Gnonto. I wondered if the latter might be left on given his ability to create out of nowt, but the same is so of Summerville so he’s left to try and make that happen, now with the help of a proper centre-forward alongside him.

69 min And he tries the wobble-ball effect, a deflection off the wall earning a corner; Leeds see it away.

68 min Nice from Sara, sensing Makara behind him and flicking around the corner, wearing the inevitable foul. Free-kick Norwich, 30 yards out, left of centre; can they put Meslier under pressure? McLean looks reads to have a shot…

67 min Farke has Piroe ready to come on; I imagine it’ll be Rutter who makes way.

66 min No, not like that. Grow up.

65 min But Norwich are surging agani, a cross grom the left just too strong for Sargent then, at the back post, Fassnacht’s poor first touch means Leeds counter. So Fassnacht hauls Gnonto back, is booked, then Stacey momentarily loses the run of himself, unimpressed with Summerville’s tackle on him.

64 min Giannoulis, who’s been a decent outlet down the left, crosses for Sargent, but the ball is at an awkward height and leaves his teammates bereft of options, so Leeds clear.

63 min Gnonto is down, by the way, having been caught by a stray book that draws blood. He’ll be fine.

63 min Also going on:

62 min “I’m with you on the Meslier thing,” says Jeremy Boyce. “He still looks as though he isn’t old enough to shave yet, but you’d have thought he’d have no nerves left to shred. He was El Loco Bielsa’s choice for the playing-it-out style that we all loved, and he really was was very young. He took it on and was great, shame to see his confidence shot for now.”

61 min Change for Norwich, Rowe – who’s returned well – replaced by Fassnacht.

59 min The corner comes to nowt but Leeds are coming, Gray sending them forward with a clever pass. Then Kamara – increasingly influential – drives into the box, a bun touch from Byram when he might’ve shot looking to end the attack. But Leeds try again, Gray cutting back for Byram, who this time misses his kick. The visitors are the better side now.

58 min Gnonto, who’s been quiet weaves into the box daring someone to challenge him, but Norwich keep patience well, then a poor header from Duffy allows Summerville to sashay into the box, his near-post shot turned behind.

57 min Leeds make room for Firpo down the left, Kamara and Summerville patiently working the space, but the low cross is easily fielded by Gunn at his near post.

56 min I wondered when Farke might send Piroe on, but I think there could be a roll for the fit-again Daniel James too, as the game gets stretched and Norwich look for an advantage to take to Leeds.

54 min Giannoulis goes in late on Gnonto, accidentally brushing studs across torso in the process, and he’s booked.

53 min Now then! Giannoulis makes a run down the left – he’s done that a lot today – but this he’s found, controls, and cuts back for Sainz, arriving on the burst. But the pass it a little behind him and, retrieving it, he can only send his shot arcing wide of the near post.

53 min It’s been a slow start to the second half; Leeds will be happy with that, Norwich – who you feel need to win today – less so.

51 min Duffy launches in on Summerville from behind, autographing his calf and, when play stops, he’s booked,

50 min Again, Leeds keep the ball, before Meslier again inepts into touch. I feel for him, because with 50 minutes gone he’s still not settled.

49 min Excellent from Rowe, carrying the ball through midfield then making space with a clever shop, sending Sainz in behind … but Byram, at full stretch, slides in to make a crucial challenge.

49 min Leeds really struggled to get Gray on the ball first half and I wonder if his future is a bit deeper, as a schemer rather than a creator.

47 min I don’t think it’ll be too long before Farke sends on Piroe, if his team continue struggling to build and sustain attacks. But for now, it’s as you were.

46 min We go again, learning that Leeds’ 90 points is the most – pro rata, including when it was two for a win – for a team not promoted since Hull in 1910.

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Willy Gnonto restored to Leeds starting line-up against Bournemouth

Willy Gnonto has been handed his first start in seven games for Leeds United as they travel to Bournemouth in the Premier League .

Gnonto, 19, has struggled for minutes under head coach Javi Gracia, making just two starts and four substitute appearances in the Spaniard’s 10 Premier League matches in charge of Leeds.

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Leeds fans have grown frustrated at Gracia’s decision to only use Gnonto sparingly, amid a run of four games without a victory including consecutive 5-1 and 6-1 home defeats against Crystal Palace and Liverpool respectively.

Gracia was asked about Gnonto’s game time on Friday and said: “You ask me about Willy many times and I always say the same: He’s an exceptional player with an amazing character.

“The last game (the 1-1 draw with Leicester City ) I decided to play with Cry (Summerville) but I am sure in the next games Willy will have chances to show.

“It’s something about what I think is better for the team. I choose what’s best for the team.”

Gracia has a choice: Gnonto can be an ace up his sleeve or the albatross around his neck

Gnonto’s start for Leeds against Bournemouth comes after the news that fellow forward Luis Sinisterra will not play again this season due to an ankle injury .

📋 Your #LUFC Starting XI… pic.twitter.com/Qv0oSyQyby — Leeds United (@LUFC) April 30, 2023

Gnonto joined Leeds from Swiss side FC Zurich in the summer. It had initially been agreed that the Italy international would move to Elland Road in January but his transfer was brought forward in September after Leeds failed to bring in their deadline day targets.

He did not make his Leeds debut until October but the forward then impressed with his direct style of play and ability to beat a man, despite the side’s struggles under previous coach Jesse Marsch.

In 24 matches for Leeds this season, Gnonto has scored four goals and provided three assists.

Leeds are 16th in the Premier League, one point ahead of 18th-placed Leicester.

Boom time: Why attendances are spiking and football has never meant more

(Photo: Getty Images)

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Phil grew up near Edinburgh in Scotland and is a staff writer for The Athletic, covering Leeds United. He previously worked for the Yorkshire Evening Post as its chief football writer. Follow Phil on Twitter @ PhilHay_

Mysterious structures discovered near Egypt's Great Pyramid of Giza

• READ MORE: Scientist says he's cracked cause of the 'Pharaoh's curse' 

Archaeologists have discovered mysterious structures hidden below the surface near Egypt ’s Great Pyramid that could be an unknown tomb built 4,500 years ago.

The team used ground-penetrating radar on Giza’s Western Cemetery, uncovering an L-shaped anomaly that appeared as an entranceway to a chamber below.

The burial ground holds the remains of King Khufu, who commissioned the iconic pyramid, his family members and high-ranking officials, suggesting another elite could be hiding beneath the sands.

The L-shaped structure is up to six feet below the surface and filled with sand, which researchers speculated was intentionally done after it was constructed to block the entrance to the ‘chamber’ nearly 30 more feet below.

‘The structure causing the anomalies could be vertical walls of limestone or shafts leading to a tomb structure,’ the researchers shared in the study .

However, they noted that a further investigation will be necessary to determine its true identity.

In addition to radar, the team also used a technique called electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) that maps geologic variations.

The structures were discovered in a ‘blank area' with no visible structures and mostly flat ground with compacted sand on the surface.

Using the scanners, the team determined the L-shaped feature is about 32 feet long and about 49 feet wide.

And the second structure measures 32 feet all around, which could be a mix of sand and gravel or even an open void.

Researchers have speculated that the structure could be a mastaba, an underground rectangular tomb with a flat roof typically constructed of limestone or mudbricks.

‘It has a vertical shaft connected to a subsurface chamber,’ the study reads.

‘Most such sites are buried under overburden sand, and it is not easy to locate their exact positions from the surface.

‘Under such conditions, their positions can be identified by the shallow geophysical exploration methods.’ 

Study first author Motoyuki Sato, a professor in the Center for Northeast Asian Studies at Tohoku University in Japan, told Live Science that he and his team are sure the structures are not natural phenomenon because the 'shape is too sharp.'

The Great Pyramid stands more than 480 feet tall with the length of each side of the base measuring about 755 feet, making it the largest man-made structure on Earth.

The two smaller pyramids were constructed later - one built for Khafre, the fourth of the eight kings of the 4th dynasty, and the other for Menkaure, the fifth king of the 4th dynasty.

Khufu was the second king of the 4th dynasty.

And the ancient Egyptian pyramids are still revealing new secrets.

In March 2023,  scientists discovered hidden corridor buried deep inside the Great Pyramid using an endoscopic camera and a technique called cosmic-ray muon radiography.

The team mapped the opening, confirming it was 30 feet long and seven feet wide.

It wa below, or on another as yet undiscovered chamber or space, according to Mostafa Waziri, head of Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities. 

Five rooms atop the king's burial chamber in another part of the pyramid are also thought to have been built to redistribute the weight of the massive structure.

It was possible the pharaoh had more than one burial chamber, Waziri added.

AAA forecasts near-record holiday travel for Memorial Day weekend

As Americans gear up for the unofficial start of summer, AAA projects a surge in travel over Memorial Day weekend, with over 4.3 million people expected to travel 50 miles or more from home. This would mark a 4% increase from last year and nearly matches the record set in 2005.

“We haven’t seen Memorial Day weekend travel numbers like these in almost 20 years,” said Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of AAA Travel, in a news release. “We’re projecting an additional one million travelers this holiday weekend compared to 2019, which not only means we’re exceeding pre-pandemic levels but also signals a very busy summer travel season ahead.”

The majority of travelers will be hitting the roads, with an estimated 38.4 million people traveling by car, the highest number since AAA began tracking in 2000. Despite similar gas prices to last yer, with the national average around $3.57 per gallon, road trips continue to be the preferred mode of transportation due to their convenience and flexibility.

Air travel is also seeing a significant uptick, with 3.51 million expected to fly, which is a 4.8% increase in over last year and the highest since 2005. Travelers are advised to plan ahead and expect crowded airports and potential delays.

For those driving, INRIX, a provider of transportation data and insights, suggests avoiding peak travel times.

“Travel times are expected to be up to 90% longer than normal. Travelers should stay up to date on traffic apps, 511 services, and local news stations to avoid sitting in traffic longer than necessary,” said Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX, in a AAA news release.

Congested periods are expected during the Memorial Day weekend, particularly on Thursday, May 23, and Friday, May 25, in the evenings and late afternoon on Monday, May 27.

As for destinations, top spots include Orlando, New York, Las Vegas, and Southern California, with theme parks and entertainment venues drawing the biggest crowds. Internationally, European cities like Rome and Paris top the list for those venturing abroad.

Copyright 2024 Sunbeam Television Corp. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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Wisconsin gears up for near-record Memorial Day travel, second highest since 2019

by Ashley Kaster, FOX 11 News

(WLUK) -- Wisconsinites will be hitting the road for the unofficial start of summer.

AAA forecasts near-record numbers for this year’s Memorial Day weekend with more than 816,000 Wisconsin residents traveling 50 miles or more. That’s over 30,000 more holiday travelers than last year, and second only to the all-time high set in 2019.

Nationally, AAA projects the second highest traveled Memorial Day on record. Nearly 43.8 million Americans will journey 50 miles or more during the holiday travel period. That’s 1.7 million more travelers than last year (4% increase), yet slightly behind 2005’s record of 44 million.

“Memorial Day will be the start to a very busy summer of travel,” said Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “American travelers are forecast to surpass pre-pandemic levels, making this the busiest Memorial Day holiday weekend in nearly two decades. The main driver of the projection is strong consumer interest in traveling both domestically and abroad. Interest in traveling internationally is at the highest level in recent years.”

Road trips are expected to set a record nationwide, with nearly 38.4 million traveling by car over Memorial Day weekend, the highest number for that holiday since AAA began tracking in 2000. The national number of drivers this year is up 4% compared to last year and 1.9% higher than in 2019.

Wisconsin’s statewide gas prices average is currently tracking below prices from the same time last year, but average prices across the country - particularly outside of the Midwest – are tracking higher.

• Click here to see what days and times are the best and worst times to travel

Airports are also bracing for a spike in travelers. AAA expects 3.51 million Americans to travel by air this holiday weekend, an increase of 4.8% over last year and 9% jump compared to 2019. This will be the most crowded Memorial Day weekend at airports since 2005, when 3.64 million flew for the holiday as the travel industry finally rebounded post 9/11. This Memorial Day weekend, air ticket prices are comparable to last year.

According to AAA booking data, the average price for a round trip domestic flight will cost $778. That’s 2% more than last year’s holiday weekend. International flights are 4% more expensive – averaging $1485 for a roundtrip ticket. Several factors play into how much travelers pay for airfare, including destination, number of stops, and fare class. For example, passengers who book nonstop flights with seat selection and carry-on bags included will likely pay more than those who select basic economy with a layover.

In reviewing all hotel bookings with AAA, domestic hotels are 5% cheaper this Memorial Day weekend compared to last. The total average cost per stay (which can be multiple nights) is $500. International hotels are about the same as last year. The average cost per stay is $660.

Want to see the Northern Lights? There's a chance you'll see them tonight over Vermont

The Aurora Borealis , also known as the northern lights, is predicted to put on a spectacular show tonight that much of the country, including Vermont, might be able to see.

From Friday night to early Saturday morning, the Aurora Borealis will potentially be visible over the northern United States , possibly reaching as far as Virginia, Missouri, Colorado.

But seeing the lights is not a sure thing for Vermonters.

Because of cloud cover in the region, AccuWeather is saying the viewing may be poor across much of New England.

Though a rare occurrence overall, this is the second year in a row that the northern lights have come south. An April 2023, they were visible all the way to Arizona . So what do we have to thank for this celestial light show?

What is the Aurora Borealis?

The phenomenon of the northern lights is caused by massive clouds of charged particles released by the sun toward the Earth, events known as coronal mass ejections. Upon impact with the Earth's magnetic field, these particles interact with molecules of atmospheric gases to ignite the aurora borealis over the Northern Hemisphere, usually over Canada.

Situations such as this one result from larger coronal mass ejections, which can mean the lights will spark over larger portions of the Northern Hemisphere.

The frequency of the shows has increased in recent years as we've hit "solar maximum," which is expected to peak this year.

"There have been an increase in aurora seen in general on Earth,"  Shannon Schmoll, the director of the Abrams Planetarium at Michigan State University  told USA TODAY last year. "The sun has been more active, resulting in more solar storms that cause solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CME).

A fickle forecast

The aurora can be fickle to forecast, so some caution is warranted before adjusting your weekend plans. Unlike terrestrial weather, scientists who forecast space weather – which includes the aurora – must rely on observations of the 93-million-miles-away sun to make their predictions.

"There are so many uncertainties, it makes it difficult to predict," Bill Murtagh, the program coordinator at the Space Weather Prediction Center,  told USA TODAY last year . And as hard as it is to forecast weather here on Earth, "we are decades behind the forecast capabilities of our colleagues in meteorology," he admitted, referring to space weather.

Tips for seeing the Northern Lights 2024

Barring cloud cover, which could be an issue for viewers in the Northeast, for best results it's recommended to travel somewhere with as little light pollution as possible and look to the northern horizon.

The best aurora is usually within an hour or two of midnight (between 10:00 p.m. and 2:00 a.m. local time). These hours expand towards evening and morning as the level of geomagnetic activity increases.

Dark locations far north, away from light pollution and with a good view to the north, offer the best chance of seeing something, Mark Breen, senior meteorologist and planetarium director at the Fairbanks Museum and Planetarium, told the Burlington Free Press last year.

Good places in and near Chittenden County to view the northern lights might include  Causeway Park ,  Mallets Bay  and  Delta Park  in Colchester. All far enough from Burlington to avoid light pollution and all along Lake Champlain; the green glow looks especially stunning over water.

Higher elevations such as the ski resort in Stowe might also offer a clear view as well.

Even if you don't get the best view on Friday, if the coronal mass ejections continue at their present level, the northern lights could still be visible here on Saturday night as well.

If you're hoping to capture the moment on film for posterity - or Instagram - a smart phone is unlikely to give you the desired results and it's best to bring a proper camera. Be sure it's on the proper settings beforehand.

USA Today contributed to this report.

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Live updates, memorial day holiday travel may near record with 44m hitting the road: aaa.

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The American Automobile Association is anticipating a record-tying nearly 44 million travelers — a vast majority hitting the road for at least 50 miles — on the upcoming Memorial Day Weekend.

“We haven’t seen Memorial Day Weekend travel numbers like these in almost 20 years,” Paula Twidale, senior vice president of AAA Travel, said of the expected 43.8 million to hit the road between Thursday, May 23, and Monday, May 27.

“We’re projecting an additional 1 million travelers this holiday weekend compared to 2019, which not only means we’re exceeding pre-pandemic levels but also signals a very busy summer travel season ahead.”  

The last time 44 million people hit the road on MDW was 2005, according to the association.

This year’s projections — 38.4 million folks by car alone — are also 4% higher than in 2023 and have surged 1.9% above 2019 figures as well.

“Travel times are expected to be up to 90% longer than normal,” said Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at transit data company INRIX. “Travelers should stay up-to-date on traffic apps, 511 services and local news stations to avoid sitting in traffic longer than necessary.”

In New York City, the Bronx to Albany section of the New York State Thruway, Interstate 87, is projected to see a 64% uptick in northbound volume at about 11:45 a.m. the Thursday before Memorial Day.

That late-morning slot is the worst time to travel up I-87, which includes the Major Deegan Expressway within the city limits.

Other areas like Orlando; Las Vegas; Southern California; Seattle; Anchorage, Alaska, and Vancouver, Canada, were also flagged as high-traffic locations, thanks to an abundance of theme parks and other entertainment destinations.

Meanwhile, airports too are gearing up for an expected 3.51 million travelers over the holiday — up 4.8% from last year and 9% from 2019.

Even buses, cruises and trains are expected to see nearly 2 million people, a 5.6% surge compared to 2023.

“This category took the biggest hit during the pandemic with fewer people taking public transportation or not cruising at all,” Twidale said.

“Now – five years later – we’re back to 2019 numbers. Travel demand has been soaring, and long holiday weekends create the perfect windows for getaways.” 

The worst times to hit the road on Memorial Day Weekend

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CIA director may travel to Israel for more cease-fire and hostage negotiations

CIA Director William Burns may travel to Israel for more cease-fire and hostage release talks after holding discussions on Sunday in the Qatari capital, Doha, a source with knowledge of the matter told NBC News.

Burns, whose schedule remained fluid amid uncertainty over the outcome of the talks, has emerged as a key figure in the negotiations. The CIA director had previously been in Cairo, where Hamas stated that cease-fire discussions concluded Sunday following “in-depth and serious discussions.”

The militant group reiterated key demands that Israel again rejected. After earlier signs of progress, the outlook appeared to dim as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu  vowed to resist international pressure to halt the war.

Israel closed its main crossing point for  delivering badly needed humanitarian aid for Gaza  after Hamas attacked it. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant claimed Hamas wasn’t serious about a deal and warned of “a powerful operation in the very near future in Rafah and other places across all of  Gaza .”

Early Monday, the Israeli military urged civilians in eastern Rafah to evacuate. The southernmost Gaza city, on the border with Egypt, is where more than half of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents now seek shelter from Israeli attacks.

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Israel didn’t send a delegation to the talks mediated by Egypt and Qatar. Egyptian state media reported that the Hamas delegation went for discussions in Qatar, where the group has a political office, and will return to Cairo for further negotiations on Tuesday.

A senior Arab negotiator directly involved in the talks with Israel and the United States said that the negotiations are not over and have not collapsed.

Separately, an Israeli official said that Burns' presence in the region was an indication that there are still ongoing discussions. Burns was in the Qatari capital Doha for talks on the subject yesterday.

However, another threat to talks came as Israel ordered the local offices of Qatar’s  Al Jazeera satellite news network to close , accusing it of broadcasting anti-Israel incitement. The ban did not appear to affect the channel’s operations in Gaza or the West Bank.

Netanyahu, under pressure from hard-liners in his government, continued to lower expectations for a cease-fire deal, calling the key Hamas demands “extreme” — including the withdrawal of Israel forces from Gaza and an end to the war. That would equal surrender after the Hamas attack on Oct. 7 that triggered the fighting, he said.

Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh said in a statement earlier that the militant group was serious and positive about the negotiations and that stopping Israeli aggression in Gaza is the main priority.

But Israel’s government again vowed to press on with a military operation in Rafah, a key entry point for aid.

Kerem Shalom , now closed, is another. The Israeli military reported 10 projectiles were launched at the crossing in southern Israel and said its fighter jets later struck the source. Hamas said it had been targeting Israeli soldiers in the area. Israel’s Channel 12 TV channel said 10 people were wounded, three seriously. It was unclear how long the crossing would be closed.

The head of the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees, Philippe Lazzarini, called for an independent investigation and “accountability for the blatant disregard of humanitarian workers.” He also said Israel this week denied him entry to Gaza for a second time.

The closing of Kerem Shalom came shortly after the head of the U.N. World Food Program asserted there was a  “full-blown famine”  in devastated northern Gaza, one of the most prominent warnings yet about the toll of restrictions on food and other aid entering the territory. The comments were not a formal famine declaration.

In expanded remarks as the full NBC News interview was released Sunday, WFP chief Cindy McCain said famine was “moving its way south” in Gaza and that Israel’s efforts to allow in more aid were not enough. “We need more ability to be able to get more trucks in,” she said. “We have right now a mass on the outside border, about enough trucks and enough food for 1.1 million people for about three months. We need to get that in.”

Gaza’s vast humanitarian needs put further pressure on the pursuit of a  cease-fire . The proposal that Egyptian mediators had put to Hamas sets out a three-stage process that would bring an immediate six-week cease-fire and partial release of Israeli hostages taken in the Oct. 7 attack, and it would include some sort of Israeli pullout. The initial stage would last for 40 days. Hamas would start by releasing female civilian hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.

Netanyahu claimed that Israel has shown willingness to make concessions but said it “will continue fighting until all of its objectives are achieved.” That includes the stated aim of crushing Hamas. Israel says it must target Rafah to strike remaining fighters there despite  warnings from the U.S.  and others about the danger to civilians.

An Israeli strike Sunday on the al-Attar family house in an urban refugee camp near Rafah killed four children, including a baby, and two adults, according to Abu Youssef al-Najjar Hospital.

In a fiery speech for Israel’s annual  Holocaust memorial day , Netanyahu added: “I say to the leaders of the world, no amount of pressure, no decision by any international forum will stop Israel from defending itself. If Israel is forced to stand alone, Israel will stand alone.”

The Hamas cross-border attack on Oct. 7 killed 1,200 people, and 250 others were taken hostage. Israel says militants  still hold around 100 hostages  and the remains of more than 30 others. Netanyahu is under growing pressure from some hostages’ families to make a deal to end the war and get hostages freed.

Israeli’s air and ground offensive has killed over 34,500 people, according to Palestinian health officials, who don’t differentiate between civilians and combatants but say women and children make up a majority of those killed.

Israel blames Hamas for civilian deaths, accusing it of embedding in residential and public areas. The Israeli military says it has killed 13,000 militants, without providing evidence to back up the claim.

Dan De Luce is a reporter for the NBC News Investigative Unit. 

Courtney Kube is a correspondent covering national security and the military for the NBC News Investigative Unit.

The Associated Press

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3 surfers from Australia and the U.S. were killed in Mexico's Baja California. Here's what we know.

Updated on: May 7, 2024 / 4:08 PM EDT / CBS/AP

Two Australians and an American were doing what they loved on the stunning, largely isolated stretch of Baja California's Pacific coast. Their last images on social media showed them sitting and gazing at the waves.

What happened to end their lives may have been as random as a passing pickup truck full of people with ill intent. The  surfers were shot in the head , their bodies dumped in a covered well miles away. Here's what we know:

Who were the victims?

Brothers Jake and Callum Robinson from Australia and American Jack Carter Rhoad had apparently stopped to surf the breaks between Punta San José, about 50 miles south of Ensenada, and La Bocana, further north on the coast.

Callum Robinson's Instagram page showed several images from the trio's Mexico trip: enjoying beers with their feet up in a bar, lazing in a jacuzzi, eating roadside tacos, looking out at the surf.

Callum, who was six-foot-four, had played in the U.S. Premier Lacrosse League, which left a  message on its website  saying the lacrosse world was "heartbroken by the tragic loss" of the trio.

"We offer our hearts, support and prayers to the Robinson and Rhoad Families, as well as all who loved Callum, Jake and Jack," it said.

On social media, his devastated girlfriend shared a black and white photo of the couple kissing, with the message: "You are one of one. I will love you forever."

In another photo she shared, in which the two can be seen embracing,  she wrote: "My heart is shattered into a million pieces. I don't have the words right now."

Jake Robinson was a doctor in Perth, according to Australian media.

Rhoad was engaged and set to marry Natalie Weirtz on Aug. 17 in Columbus, Ohio, according to a  Zola  online wedding registry. A GoFundMe which was launched to "rally support for Natalie" had raised over $57,000 as of Tuesday morning.

"In the wake of the heartbreaking loss of Carter Rhoad, Callum Robinson, and Jake Robinson, our hearts ache with grief for their families, friends, and community," reads a separate GoFundMe set up for Rhoad's family.

What happened to them?

The three friends were attacked there on April 28 or 29.

As soon as police arrived at their last known camp site, it was clear that something had gone violently wrong.

There were bloodstains and marks "as if heavy objects had been dragged," leading to suspicions of an attack, the Baja California state prosecutor's office said in an attempt to reconstruct the scene.

Chief state prosecutor María Elena Andrade Ramírez described what likely would have been moments of terror that ended the trip for the three men.

She theorized the killers drove by and saw the foreigners' pickup truck and tents and wanted to steal the truck's tires and other parts. But "when (the foreigners) came up and caught them, surely, they resisted."

She said that's when the killers would have shot the men. She said they were likely not attacked because they were tourists. "The evidence suggests they (the killers) did not know where they were from."

Andrade Ramírez said the reconstruction of events was based on the forensic examiner's reports, noting all three had bullet wounds to the head.

There was a hurried attempt to destroy evidence. The foreigners' tents were apparently burned. The pickup truck was driven miles away and burned. The assailants' truck was later found with a gun inside.

Then, at "a site that is extremely hard to get to," the bodies were dumped into a well about 4 miles (6 kilometers) away. Investigators were surprised when, underneath the bodies of the three foreigners, a fourth body was found that had been there much longer.

"They had to have previous knowledge of it," Andrade Ramírez said of the attackers, acknowledging the possibility they were behind the previous killing.

The well had been covered with boards. "It was literally almost impossible to find it," Andrade Ramírez said. It took two hours to winch the bodies out.

Who are the suspects?

Prosecutors have said they were questioning three people in the killings. Two were caught with methamphetamines. One of them, a woman, had one of the victims' cellphones when she was caught. Prosecutors said the two were being held pending drug charges but continue to be suspects in the killings.

A third man was arrested on charges of a crime equivalent to kidnapping, but that was before the bodies were found. It was unclear if he might face more charges.

The third man was believed to have directly participated in the killings. In keeping with Mexican law, prosecutors identified him by his first name, Jesús Gerardo, alias "el Kekas," a slang word that means quesadillas, or cheese tortillas.

Andrade Ramírez said he had a criminal record that included drug dealing, vehicle theft and domestic violence, adding, "We are certain that more people were involved."

She emphasized that she could not discuss anything related to the suspects, or their possible statements, because that was not allowed under Mexican law and might prejudice the case against them.

Andrade Ramírez noted that the victims' families said the brothers and Rhoad had come many times to the seaside spot and never had any problem. This time, however, "there was no way to ask for help when the attackers showed up."

What's next?

In a statement to CBS News, the FBI said it "continues to work with our international law enforcement partners in resolving this ongoing situation" and has been in contact with the family of the American victim.

"While we cannot comment on specifics to preserve the sanctity of the investigative and legal processes, along with protecting the privacy of those impacted, we can assure you that we are assessing every tip. If credible, we will pursue those leads with rigor," the FBI said.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Tuesday he had requested an opportunity to speak to the brothers' parents Deborah and Martin Robinson.

"This is a terrible tragedy and my heart goes out to them. To identify these wonderful young men and they have been travelling in Mexico. We've been dealing with them through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. I've indicated that I wish to speak to them at an appropriate time of their choosing," Albanese told reporters in the Queensland state town of Rockhampton.

AFP contributed to this report.

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