Thursday cover: Agony of the Alps as Tour de France progresses through difficult terrain

The National’s Sport cover for the Thursday, July 23 issue, featuring the mountain stages of the 2015 Tour de France.

On Wednesday German Simon Geschke won the 17th stage, but of more note earlier in the day was the news of American Tejay Van Garderen, who was in third, abandoning the race. He wasn’t the only one, with Polish star Michal Kiwatkowski also dropping out.

Chris Froome continues to be the runaway leader, arriving at the end of the ride from Digne-les-Bains to Pra Loup just behind second-placed Nairo Quintana, largely maintaining his 3 min 10 sec.

If you go

Where to stay: Courtyard by Marriott Titusville Kennedy Space Centre has unparalleled views of the Indian River. Alligators can be spotted from hotel room balconies, as can several rocket launch sites. The hotel also boasts cool space-themed decor.

When to go: Florida is best experienced during the winter months, from November to May, before the humidity kicks in.

How to get there: Emirates currently flies from Dubai to Orlando five times a week.

Thursday cover: Agony of the Alps as Tour de France progresses through difficult terrain

The National's Sport cover for the Thursday, July 23 issue, featuring the mountain stages of the 2015 Tour de France.

If you go