Iconic artist, performer, and producer DJ Yoda, has been dazzling audiences with his inventive turntablism and eclectic mixes for years. Known for his skillful blend of hip-hop, funk, and pop culture references, DJ Yoda (aka Duncan Beiny) is a true pioneer in the EDM universe.
His playful approach to music and knack for mixing unexpected tracks have earned him a reputation as one of the most entertaining and innovative DJs around.
Like the Public Service Broadcasting boys, Yoda’s a veteran of the game, producing huge albums like “Breakfast of Champions” and “Home Cooking,” two vibrant showcases of his ability to blend genres and create something entirely new.
When it comes to live performances, DJ Yoda is in a league of his own. His shows are a visual and auditory feast, featuring everything from classic movie clips to viral internet videos, all expertly synced with his dynamic beats. It’s a multimedia extravaganza that keeps fans coming back for more.
Claudia Peifer had a fantastic time chatting with DJ Yoda at Snowbombing Festival on the slopes of Mayrhofen, Austria, about his creative process, inspirations, and what’s next on his exciting musical journey. Get ready to dive into the world of a DJ who truly knows how to mix things up!
Exclusive Interview with Charmaine Chanakira: A Rising Star in Afro-Expressionist Art
In the ever-evolving world of contemporary art, few artists capture the raw vibrancy and depth of African heritage quite like Charmaine Chanakira.
After recently chatting with the incredible Cynthia Erivo and Eric Underwood, our Girl About Town, Claudia Peifer is back out there again, chatting to more top artistic talent.
A Zimbabwean-born, London-based Afro-expressionist painter, Charmaine’s works are a visual and emotional explosion of identity, culture, and personal experience.
Her art is not just about aesthetics—it’s about storytelling, self-exploration, and a deep-rooted dialogue between past and present.
So, without further ado, catch what happened when Charmaine sat down with TA-DAH.TV and read on to learn more about this awesome up-and-comer.
Born in Harare, Zimbabwe, Charmaine moved to the UK at the tender age of five. And it’s this transition, from the rich cultural landscapes of Zimbabwe to the bustling metropolis of London, that shaped her perspective and artistic language in profound ways.
“I never quite felt like I fully belonged in either place,” Charmaine once remarked in an interview. “My art became a way to reconcile these two worlds—to find a space where I could exist freely and authentically.”
Her work is infused with her Zimbabwean roots, blending traditional African elements—such as intricate patterns, bold colour palettes, and rhythmic compositions—with contemporary themes of identity and self-discovery – hence the use of mouths and eyes.
Charmaine Chanakira: Bold, Beautiful and Unique
We’ve featured A LOT of incredible and diverse art on our Channel – from Cezanne to Banksy – and Charmaine’s works are different again.
In her own words, her paintings are characterised by their fearless use of colour – “The brighter the better, the bolder the better, the louder the better.”
She describes her style as ‘Afro-expressionist,’ a term that perfectly encapsulates her blend of traditional African influences with modern expressionist techniques.
She also mentions in our exclusive interview that the art helps connect her to her heritage in an “endless cycle of celebrating being African.”
But her works also challenge societal norms. Charmaine recently spoke about how her art invites viewers to step into her world and experience the complexities of race, gender, and personal identity.
She has commented previously: “For too long, Black women’s stories have been told through someone else’s lens. This is my way of reclaiming my own narrative.”
Key Influences: From Mental Health Patients to Adebayo Bolaji
Although she tells us that inspiration hits her randomly, she also highlights the mental health patients she used to work with in a previous role as surprising muses for her creativity.
In terms of inspirational figures from within the industry, she highlights that London-born contemporary artist Adebayo Bolaji played a huge role in her artistic development.
Bolaji, a multidisciplinary artist of Nigerian heritage, is equally celebrated for his bold use of colour, storytelling techniques, and ability to fuse painting with other artistic mediums such as sculpture, theatre, and poetry.
Speaking of Bolaji’s influence, she said recently:
“Adebayo’s work showed me that there are no rules when it comes to storytelling in art. His ability to merge different forms of artistic expression gave me the confidence to do the same in my own way.”
Breaking Boundaries and Critical Acclaim
Charmaine’s work has been featured in several exhibitions, and she continues to make waves in the art world with her striking and thought-provoking pieces.
In 2023, Charmaine was featured in the Ascension group show at Zari Gallery in London, where her work received widespread acclaim.
Critics praised her ability to fuse tradition with contemporary expression, positioning her as one of the most exciting emerging voices in the Afro-expressionist movement.
The Future of Afro-Expressionism and Charmaine’s Role in It
Afro-expressionism is gaining momentum, with artists like Charmaine leading the way in pushing its boundaries. By blending cultural storytelling with modern artistic techniques, Charmaine is redefining how African art is perceived on the global stage.
Her goal is not only to make art that resonates but to inspire the next generation of African artists, recently commenting: “I want young Black artists to see my work and know that their voices matter, that their stories deserve to be told on their own terms.”
As she continues to grow and evolve, Charmaine is set to leave an indelible mark on the art world. Her work is more than just visually stunning—it is a testament to the resilience, beauty, and complexity of African identity.
So, where can you see more of these eye-catching artworks for yourself?
Where Can You Catch Charmaine’s Works?
Charmaine Chanakira’s collection of kaleidoscopic works will be taking pride of place in the 90 Clarendon Fine Art Galleries around the UK and beyond.
Check out her special pieces in locations like these – and many more:
Bath
Brighton
Cardiff
Edinburgh
Leicester
Leeds
Liverpool
Manchester
Newcastle
Nottingham
York
Discover More Incredible Up-and-Coming Artists on Our Arts & Culture Channel
Charmaine Chanakira is more than just an artist; she is a storyteller and a voice for the African diaspora. Her work is bold, deeply personal, and unapologetically Black.
Through her powerful canvases, she invites us all to step into her world—a world where identity is fluid, history is honored, and art serves as a bridge between past and future.
Catch more of Charmaine’s works in the Clarendon Fine Art Galleries we highlighted earlier.
But for more exclusive artist interviews, insightful features, and coverage of the latest exhibitions and cultural events across Europe there’s only one place to be – our Arts & Culture Channel. Discover it today!
What’s it Like Walking the Caminito del Rey? Hiking One of the World’s Most Dangerous Pathways
Last time we heard from Jane Blonde she was paragliding in the Swiss Alps. Well, she’s out on another pulse-pumping mission – only this time it might be slightly warmer.
Are you ready to take a hair-raising walk along one of Spain’s most breathtaking hiking trails? Once we knew that a place this thrilling existed in the stunning Costa del Sol, we couldn’t keep our very own Jane Blonde away!
Welcome to the Caminito del Rey, once considered the most dangerous walkway in the world!
Thankfully, this legendary path, which clings to the cliffs of Málaga’s stunning gorge, has been fully restored and is now a safe but exhilarating experience. Expect jaw-dropping views, fascinating history and a hike that will stay with you forever.
A Brief History of the Caminito del Rey
Originally constructed in 1901 and completed in 1905, the Caminito del Rey was built as a service path for workers at the nearby hydroelectric plants. It provided a shortcut across the Gaitanes Gorge, allowing engineers to inspect and maintain the water channels.
The pathway gained its name in 1921, when King Alfonso XIII walked along it during the inauguration of the Conde del Guadalhorce Dam.
Over the years, the trail fell into disrepair, with crumbling concrete and missing sections making it infamous as one of the world’s most dangerous hikes. Sounds utterly terrifying!
For over a decade, it was officially closed—until a €9 million restoration transformed it into a secure, modern trail, reopening in 2015.
Today, the Caminito del Rey is a bucket-list experience, combining history, nature and adventure in one unforgettable journey. So, let’s take you closer to the action. Here’s what to expect from the team who scaled it.
What to Expect on the Caminito del Rey Hike
The trail is a 7.7km linear hike. That means it starts at one location and ends in another – rather than forming a loop.
Consisting of a mix of pathways, forest trails and the famous elevated boardwalks attached to the gorge’s vertical rock face. Highlights include:
Suspended Walkways – Wooden paths built 100m above the river, offer showstopping views of the unbelievable landscape and exceptional flora and fauna. Every exciting turn delivers something new
The Hanging Bridge – A thrilling steel suspension bridge connecting two cliffs over the majestic Guadalhorce River.
Wildlife Spotting – Keep an eye out for soaring vultures, eagles, and other native birds. Since 1987 the Caminito del Rey environment has been a designated Special Protection Area for Birds (ZEPA)
Breathtaking Rock Formations – Ancient Dolomite cliffs make for a dramatic and imposing setting.
While the height may test your nerves, the trail itself is well-maintained and safety measures ensure a secure experience.
Tickets and Pricing
All in all, walking Caminito del Rey is an incredible day out. Plus, it’s not going to cost you an arm and a leg, which is good because you’re going to need those!
General Entry: €10 per person
Guided Tours: €18
Parking: €2
So, now we know what it is, why it’s sooo cool and how much it costs to get in, let’s tell you about the best time to go!
When is the Best Time to Walk the Caminito del Rey?
We recommend going in December to avoid the summer heat and the crowds. At 17ºC, it was a very comfortable to walk, even while carrying plenty of drink in our rucksacks.
But what’s it like at other times of the year?
Spring (March–May) – Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers make this a picturesque time to visit.
Autumn (September–November) – Comfortable weather and fewer crowds.
Winter (December–February) – Cooler but still pleasant, and much quieter than peak season.
Avoiding the Summer Heat
While summer is a popular time to visit, it can be extremely hot, with temperatures exceeding 35ºC some days – and it’s definitely not advisable suffering from heat stroke or dehydration while you’re walking a pathway 100m in the air.
However, if you must visit between June and August, aim for an early morning or late afternoon slot to escape the worst of the summer heat.
Best Time of Day to Visit
For the best experience, get out there early in the morning when temperatures are lower, and the light enhances the stunning scenery. Late afternoons are also a littler cooler, but mornings generally offer fewer crowds, allowing for a more peaceful experience.
How Long Does it Take to Complete the Caminito del Rey Walk?
The whole walk took us about three hours, including wandering up the access road to the main entrance in the northern part of the Caminito.
But, while the walk is the main event of the day, don’t let that stop you from treating the family to a beautiful day out.
A picnic in the open air is what many families enjoy on the way. We found a beauty spot for a quick pit stop, where the lay of the land was so dramatic, we felt we were sitting on the set of a Spaghetti Western or an old Winnetou film.
How to Get to the Caminito del Rey
The Caminito del Rey is located near El Chorro, about an hour’s drive from Málaga. You can reach it easily by car. You can park on the Northern Access Area which is closer to the main entrance of the Caminito.
However, we recommend parking at the Southern Access Area in El Chorro and taking the shuttle up to th entrance. The bus only costs €2.50pp and it means you can walk directly back to your car rather than waiting for a return bus after the trek.
Some hikers prefer to explore at their own pace, while others enjoy the added context from guides. Either way, we’d definitely book in advance, especially during peak season.
Other Things to Do in the Costa del Sol
The Caminito del Rey is just one of many incredible experiences in southern Spain. While in the area, consider exploring:
1. Relax on the Beaches
The Costa del Sol is famous for its stunning coastline. Top beaches include Playa de la Malagueta in Málaga, Cabopino Beach near Marbella, and Playa de Burriana in Nerja. Whether you’re after lively beach bars or secluded coves, there’s a perfect spot for everyone.
2. Visit Málaga’s Historic Centre
Discover the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, explore the Alcazaba Fortress, and enjoy tapas in Málaga’s charming old town. The city is a cultural hub, with excellent museums, historic architecture, and a vibrant culinary scene.
3. Explore Andalusia’s White Villages
Take a scenic drive to picturesque villages like Ronda, Mijas, and Setenil de las Bodegas, each offering stunning views and rich cultural heritage. These villages provide a glimpse into traditional Andalusian life with their whitewashed houses, narrow streets, and charming plazas.
4. Experience Andalusian Cuisine
Indulge in Andalusian cuisine with fresh seafood, jamón ibérico and gazpacho. Try espetos (grilled sardines) at a beachfront chiringuito or explore food markets for authentic local flavours.
For a more unique experience, take a Spanish cooking class and learn to make regional specialties like paella and salmorejo.
5. Discover the Region’s Natural Parks
Hike in El Torcal de Antequera, kayak in the Nerja caves, or visit Doñana National Park, home to the endangered Iberian lynx. The region’s diverse landscapes offer something for every nature lover.
6. Enjoy Outdoor Adventures
If you love adventure, try activities like rock climbing in El Chorro, paragliding over the mountains, or paddleboarding along the coast. The Costa del Sol is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.
Is the Caminito del Rey Worth It?
Absolutely! Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a unique experience, the Caminito del Rey offers an unbeatable combination of adventure, history, and natural beauty.
Plus, with the Costa del Sol’s beaches, culture and cuisine just a short drive away, it’s the perfect addition to any Andalusian getaway. We couldn’t recommend it enough.
Discover More Thrilling Jane Blonde Adventures On Our Travel Channel
If all that death-defying hiking sounds a little too out of your comfort zone, don’t panic. You don’t have to move a muscle to hear about more thrilling adventures like this in Europe.
Well, that’s not strictly true. You might need a couple of finger muscles to head over to TA-DAH.TV and uncover all the wonders that are waiting on our Travel Channel. You’re not likely to break a sweat though.
Our Guide to the European Cycling Road Race Calendar
Europe is the beating heart of professional road cycling, hosting some of the world’s most thrilling, grueling and historic races.
The continent’s road race calendar spans over a dozen countries, weaving through breathtaking landscapes, from the towering peaks of the Alps to the rolling fields of Flanders.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just discovering the sport, there’s something magical about watching riders battle it out across Europe’s most iconic road – the scenery’s not bad either!
While the Big Three—the Giro d’Italia, Tour de France and La Vuelta a España—steal the limelight, the European race calendar is packed with incredible events that test the world’s best cyclists to their limits.
Let’s dive into the key races and legendary riders coming your way this year.
Celebrating Europe’s Biggest Road Races
Every year crowds gather around the roads (and televisions) of Italy, France and Spain to watch European cycling’s trio of toughest races.
Giro d’Italia (Italy – May)
A celebration of passion, history and sheer endurance, the Giro d’Italia is often considered the most beautiful of the Grand Tours.
This three-week tussle takes riders across Italy’s picturesque yet punishing terrain, from the Dolomites to the sun-soaked Mediterranean coast.
The Giro is infamous for its steep climbs, unpredictable weather, and explosive racing. With past winners like Vincenzo Nibali, Marco Pantani, and Alberto Contador, the race has created legends and heartbreaks alike.
Race Highlights:
Key Climbs: Passo dello Stelvio, Mortirolo, Zoncolan
Pink Jersey: The leader wears the Maglia Rosa
Famous Moments: Chris Froome’s unforgettable solo attack in 2018
Tour de France (France – July)
The Tour de France is cycling’s most prestigious and widely watched event. Spanning three weeks and over 3,000 kilometers, it’s a brutal test of endurance, tactics and climbing class.
Riders must conquer legendary mountains like Alpe d’Huez and Mont Ventoux, with the final stage concluding in spectacular fashion on Paris’s Champs-Élysées.
The Yellow Jersey, or Maillot Jaune, is the most coveted prize in cycling. Legends like Eddy Merckx, Miguel Indurain, Tadej Pogačar, Bradley Wiggins and Chris Froome have all inscribed their names in Tour history.
Race Highlights
Key Climbs: Alpe d’Huez, Mont Ventoux, Col du Tourmalet
Yellow Jersey: Awarded to the overall leader
Famous Moments: Greg LeMond’s eight-second victory over Laurent Fignon in 1989
La Vuelta a España (Spain – August-September)
Race season moves on to sunny Spain in late summer. La Vuelta a España has developed a reputation for its unpredictable racing, brutal climbs and late-season drama.
The red jersey (La Roja) awaits the most consistent rider over three weeks of punishing heat and relentless ascents, including the infamous Angliru and Lagos de Covadonga.
Race Highlights
Key Climbs: Angliru, Lagos de Covadonga, Sierra Nevada
Red Jersey: General classification leader wears La Roja
Famous Moments: Primož Roglič’s Vuelta dominance in recent years
Other Sporty Fun in Andalucia
You may not know it, but sun-soaked Andalucia is a sporting Mecca come the summertime. This stunning part of the world doesn’t just play host to the great and the good of the cycling world, it also hosts events like:
Don’t worry if you can’t make it out for them all though, as we’re covering them over on the dedicated TA-DAH.TVSports Channel.
Beyond the Grand Tours: Europe’s Iconic Races
The three Grand Tours make up the Marquis events in the summer of cycling. But there are more contests on the calendar that you should probably be aware of. So, let’s mark your card for the rest of the season.
Spring Classics: The One-Day Beasts
The Spring Classics are cycling’s ultimate one-day tests of power and resilience. These races demand brute strength, skill, and a touch of madness.
Paris-Roubaix (France): Known as the “Hell of the North,” this race features punishing cobbled sectors that shake bikes and bones alike.
Tour of Flanders (Belgium): Short, sharp climbs and legendary cobblestones make this a national obsession in Belgium.
Liège-Bastogne-Liège (Belgium): One of the oldest classics, featuring relentless climbs and unpredictable weather.
Milan-San Remo (Italy): The longest one-day race at nearly 300km, ending with a thrilling sprint along the Ligurian coast.
Other Key Stage Races
Critérium du Dauphiné (France) – A crucial warm-up for the Tour de France.
Tour de Suisse (Switzerland) – A mountainous spectacle and key preparation race.
Volta a Catalunya (Spain) – One of the oldest races, testing riders in the Pyrenees.
Tour of the Basque Country (Spain) – Steep climbs and passionate fans make this a thrilling week of racing.
Europe’s Cycling Stars: The Riders to Watch
Modern cycling is brimming with talent, with European riders dominating the peloton. Here are just a few names to keep an eye on:
Peter Sagan (Germany) – A three-time world champion and one of the best sprinters and classics specialists of his era.
Chris Froome (Great Britain) – Four-time Tour de France winner and one of the best Grand Tour riders of his generation.
Geraint Thomas (Great Britain) – Heading into his final year, the 2018 Tour de France champion will be hoping to bow out with the biggest of bangs
Vincenzo Nibali (Italy) – One of the few riders to have won all three Grand Tours.
Egan Bernal (Colombia) – A Giro and Tour winner fighting back from injury.
Fabio Aru (Italy) – 2015 Vuelta a España winner with strong climbing ability.
Michal Kwiatkowski (Poland) – A versatile rider with a world championship title.
Julian Alaphilippe (France) – A punchy, aggressive rider with back-to-back world championships.
Alejandro Valverde (Spain) – A cycling legend with countless victories across multiple disciplines.
Richard Carapaz (Ecuador) – Giro d’Italia winner and strong climber.
Thibaut Pinot (France) – A fan-favorite climber known for aggressive racing.
Primož Roglič (Slovenia) – Vuelta a España specialist and all-around powerhouse.
Tadej Pogačar (Slovenia) – A two-time Tour de France champion with an aggressive racing style.
Tom Dumoulin (Netherlands) – A time-trial specialist and former Giro winner.
Fernando Gaviria (Colombia) – One of the best sprinters in the world.
Greg Van Avermaet (Netherlands) – Olympic champion and classics specialist.
Women’s Cycling on the Rise
Women’s cycling is experiencing a well-deserved surge in popularity, with races like the Tour de France Femmes, Giro Donne, and Paris-Roubaix Femmes gaining recognition.
The UCI is pushing for gender equality, with initiatives to promote and support female cyclists.
Watch out for stars like Annemiek van Vleuten, Marianne Vos, and Elisa Longo Borghini, who are dominating the sport and inspiring the next generation.
23 August – 14 September: La Vuelta a España (Spain)
Tune In To Our Sports Channel For More European Events
Of course, the European road race calendar is just one of the enticing sporting attractions in the buffet of contests on the continent – and we’ll be across them all!
From the Six Nations rugby tournament to the Wingfoil Freestyle Championship, Europe is always studded with sporty events.
Find news from them all over on our dedicated Sports Channel!
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