The Int'l Man's Hot Links Archive 2024: Jan 1 - June 30

Hot Links Archive 2017 - 2018 (1): - June 30	Hot Links Archive 2018 (2): July 1 - December 31
Hot Links Archive 2019 (1): January 1 - June 30	Hot Links Archive 2019 (2): July 1 - December 31
Hot Links Archive 2020 (1): January 1 - June 30	Hot Links Archive 2020 (2): July 1 - September 30
Hot Links Archive 2020 (3): Oct 1 - December 31	Hot Links Archive 2021 (1): January 1 - June 30
Hot Links Archive 2021 (2): July 1 - December 31	Hot Links Archive 2022 (1): January 1 - June 30
Hot Links Archive 2022 (2): July 1 - December 31	Hot Links Archive 2023 (1): January 1 - June 30
Hot Links Archive 2023 (2): July 1 - December 31	Hot Links Archive 2024 (1): January 1 - June 30
Hot Links Archive 2024 (2): July 1 - December 31

Hot Links Archive 2024 (1): January 1 - June 30

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• Climate Clock - "The science is clear: we are in a Climate Emergency. Decades of increasing carbon emissions are harming the natural and societal systems upon which humanity depends, threatening untold ecological and human devastation if we do not #ActInTime. The good news: there is still time."
• Climate Change - "Check out all about climate change: 1600+ evidence, facts, information, news, reviews and resources."
• Doomsday Clock Keeps Ticking - "Are humans the only beings in the universe confronting global self-destruction? Or just the last ones standing?"
• Our world in data - "Research & data to make progress against the world's largest problems."
• Artificial Intellignce: Apps, Books, Chatbots, News, Resources & Tutorials - "Everything you need to know about AI and Chatbots! 700+ resources."
• Ukraine war live - "Live coverage of the all the latest developments in the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine."
• Israel-Hamas war live - "Follow live coverage of the Israel-Hamas war here."
• Catch up on today's global news - "CNN Fast is a curated channel covering major news events across politics, international, business, and sport, and showcasing the most impactful stories of the day."
• THIS WEEK'S ACRONYM - AONB.
• THIS WEEK'S TWO BUZZWORDS - PINOCCHIO TEST.
• Tour de France 2024: stage-by-stage guide to this year’s race - "Stage two, Sunday 30 June: Cesenatico to Bologna, 199km."
• Splashing out: 10 swim brands to know - in pictures - "Sustainable, reversible, colourful and customisable, this summer’s body-positive swimwear has everything you need for a great day at the beach."
• Fran Lebowitz: ‘I am very angry. I’m angry almost all the time’ - "The famously sardonic American author, public speaker and actor, 73, on happiness, bad ideas and life-boosting nature of friendship."
• Princess Diana’s gowns & accessories smash auction estimates - "One of the largest ever collections of Princess Diana’s possessions to hit the market smashed estimates and sold for a total of $5.5 million, alongside other royal memorabilia, Los Angeles auction house Julien’s Auctions announced."
• Glastonbury 2024 main stages open - in pictures - "After two days of build-up, the music is finally under way at Glastonbury Festival. Over the next few days, Dua Lipa, Coldplay and Shania Twain will play the famous Pyramid Stage."
• Dying together: Why a happily married couple decided to stop living - "Jan and Els were married for almost five decades. In early June, they died together after being given lethal medication by two doctors. In the Netherlands, this is known as duo-euthanasia. It’s legal, and it’s rare - but every year, more Dutch couples choose to end their lives this way."
• Apple's Hidden iOS Trick to Make Your iPhone Calls Much Clearer - "Follow these four easy steps and the person you're talking to will thank you: 1. Start or answer a phone call. 2. Swipe down from the top-right corner of your screen to access your Control Center. 3. Tap Mic Mode near the top-right corner of your screen. 4. Tap Voice Isolation."
• Iconic Classic Yacht 'Christina O' Joins the Open Market for the First Time - "A true veteran of the glamorous superyacht scene of the 20th century, this 99-meter (325-foot) motor yacht carries a storied past and some sort of celebrity appeal within the yachting community. It once belonged to Greek billionaire Aristotle Onassis and has probably hosted more influential personalities, including Hollywood celebrities, heads of state, and royalty, than any other vessel."
• With The Birkin Lawsuit, HermÈs Makes Clear What Money Alone Can’t Buy - "Very few people can spend $100,000 for a handbag. Of those who can, it still doesn’t guarantee they’ll get the handbag they want - especially if that bag is the Hermès Birkin. The Birkin lawsuit presents an opportunity for luxury brands to understand what makes Hermes such a valuable company. The crux of the Birkin lawsuit alleges Hermès requires customers to buy other products before finally given a chance to buy a Birkin."
• Best Single-Serve Coffee Maker (2024) Tested & reviewed for a Quick & Easy Cup That Actually Tastes Good - "We don’t generally recommend pod coffee, but after testing a dozen machines we found some that were pretty good."
• A Cheap Bourbon Tops the World Whiskey Rankings - "You’ve definitely drunk a bottle before without realizing you were imbibing a champion. That’s right. Good old Jim Beam, whose flagship bourbon retails for less than $20 per 750ml bottle, is the best-selling world whiskey brand in the world according to The Spirit Business’s Brand Champions Report for 2024."
• How to Like Yourself More - "Taking time to enumerate nice things about yourself each day may sound terminally conceited, but in practice the results can be pretty transformative. You prioritize doing this thing that has a positive effect on you or others or on the world you live in - say, sitting in quiet contemplation for 20 minutes each morning, or journaling every night before bed. You commit to doing it on a regular basis, and after enough reps, it becomes part of who you are."
• Trump relishes a winning streak on the debate stage & in the courts - "Donald Trump used to tell his fans that he’d win so much, they’d get tired of winning. This week, that might be true for once."
• Foreign diplomats react with horror to Biden’s dismal debate performance - "President Joe Biden’s dismal showing at the CNN presidential debate against former President Donald Trump resonated around the world."
• Who could replace Joe Biden? Here are six possibilities - "With Biden not yet officially endorsed as Democratic presidential nominee, it is in theory open to the party to choose another candidate."
• Monaco officially added to ‘money laundering’ grey list - "The Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the global anti-money laundering watchdog, announced on Friday, June 28 that Monaco has been added to its ‘grey list’ of countries subject to increased monitoring. The Principality is the highest profile European jurisdiction to be added to the FATF grey list in years."
• Tour de France 2024: stage one from Florence to Rimini - live - "Pedal-by-pedal report: Updates from the 206km opening stage."
• The Tour de France champion who saved hundreds of Jews - "With this year's Tour de France starting in Florence, it's the perfect opportunity to celebrate the city's cycling hero: two-time Tour de France winner, Gino Bartali."
• An inside look at the grueling world of professional cycling - "What does it take to become a road racing legend and compete in the toughest sport in the world? Go behind the scenes with the teams and riders at all the major tours and classics through the lens of world-class pro-cycling photographer, Kristof Ramon."
• 'Codename Nemo': How a WWII Aircraft Carrier Became the First Ship to Capture an Enemy at Sea Since the War of 1812 - "By June 1944, Capt. Daniel Gallery and the escort carrier USS Guadalcanal were in the middle of their second hunter-killer mission."
• this is the worlds best business class, complete with double beds - "Skytrax has named Qatar Airways' QSuite as the world's best business class for over a decade. Travelers say Qatar Airways has the best business class, thanks to its QSuite with sliding doors and double beds. The bed is created by combining two lie-flat seats into one, and closing both privacy doors creates a small pod - making it perfect for families and couples."
• Michael Jackson Died With $500 Million in Debt - "Jackson owed about $40 million to the tour promoter A.E.G. in 2009, his estate’s executors said in a court filing. They said all the debts have been eliminated."
• Upgrade your Mac setup with these accessories - "If you’re looking to take your desk setup to the next level, this is the guide for you."
• Biden's poor showing & Trump's repeated falsehoods - "Biden has shaky debate showing as Trump repeats falsehoods." CNN.
• Stumbling debate performance worsens age fears for Biden - "Before Thursday evening, many Americans had expressed concerns about Joe Biden’s age and fitness for office. To say that this debate did not put those concerns to rest may be one of the greatest understatements of the year." BBC.
• Calls for Biden to stand aside grow after shaky debate performance against Trump - "Biden’s raspy voice, tendency to meander and difficulty finishing his answers have his allies deeply worried about his ability to beat Trump." The Guardian.
• Who won the Trump-Biden debate? It was immediately obvious - "One disastrous clip may decide the election: The ramble that left Democrats hiding behind their sofa cushions. 'All those things we need to do, childcare, eldercare, making sure we continue to strengthen our healthcare system, making sure that we’re able to make every single solitary person ... er ... eligible for what I’ve been able to do with the er ... with the er Covid, excuse me, with erm, dealing with everything we have to do with ... er, look ... er, if ... we finally beat Medicare.'" The Times.
• 11 Takeaways from CNN’s presidential debate with Biden & Trump - "Biden, hoarse and displaying little vocal range, was often unable to express his differences with Trump with clarity." CNN.
• 110 new languages are coming to Google Translate - "We’re using AI to expand the variety of languages we support. Thanks to our PaLM 2 large language model, we’re rolling out 110 new languages to Google Translate, our largest expansion ever. From Cantonese to Q'eqchi', these new languages represent more than 614 million speakers, opening up translations for around 8% of the world’s population. Some are major world languages with over 100 million speakers. Others are spoken by small communities of Indigenous people, and a few have almost no native speakers but active revitalization efforts. About a quarter of the new languages come from Africa, representing our largest expansion of African languages to date, including Fon, Kikongo, Luo, Ga, Swati, Venda and Wolof."
• Why You Should Always Put Your Luggage in the Hotel Bathtub - "'The bathtub not only proves itself to be an efficient use of space if you have a small room, but I have found no unwanted bugs or insects have stowed away in my bags since storing my luggage there. When you check into a hotel room, do not - under any circumstances - put your luggage on your bed.'"
• Your Apple Watch or Fitbit may be a breeding ground for E. coli & staph bacteria. Here's how to clean your fitness tracker - "A 2023 study examined 20 different smartwatch and fitness tracker bands and found that 95% were contaminated with infection-causing bacteria."
• Is Drinking Alcohol on Airplanes Bad For You? - " Experts suggest caution before ordering an in-air beverage. Drinking alcohol can increase your heart rate, and it has been shown to reduce blood oxygen levels during sleep. Here's what to keep in mind."
• A Surprising Climate Find - "As the planet warms, atoll nations like the Maldives seemed doomed to shrink. Scientists have begun to tell a surprising new story. What they found is startling: Even though sea levels have risen, many islands haven’t shrunk. Most, in fact, have been stable. Some have even grown."
• Casino de Monte-Carlo sets sail with Crystal Luxury Cruises - "This collaboration aims to redefine onboard entertainment by bringing the renowned Monte-Carlo gaming experience to Crystal cruise passengers."
• The 10 Fastest Porsches Ever Made, Ranked - "For simplicity's sake, we are reporting them to you in order of one fundamental metric: how fast it can achieve 100 kilometers per hour (62 miles per hour) from a standing stop."
• 3 Simple Ways to Test Your Fitness - "Try these tests to evaluate your strength and cardiovascular fitness. Run or walk for 12 minutes and measure your distance. Count laps if you’re on a track (four laps is a mile) or use a smartphone app, like Strava or Runkeeper."
• Have Refrigerators Spoiled Everything? - "In 'Frostbite,' Nicola Twilley travels the cold chain that preserves what we eat and helps it get around the world."
• Sometimes, Forgiveness Is Overrated - "Extending an olive branch can be healthy, but experts say it isn't something people should feel pressured to do."
• The Vexing Problem of the ‘Medium Friend’ - "They’re not our besties, but they’re more than just acquaintances. How much of ourselves do we owe them? Most of us maintain an informal mental inventory of our friendships, sorting those closest to us, our intimates, from our acquaintances."
• MAG-LEV Audio: The World's First Levitating Turntable - "MAG-LEV Audio’s ML1 Turntable visually enhances the experience of listening to vinyl records by levitating the platter. By joining our love for music with careful integration of technology and high-range audio components, we’ve created a turntable of the future for the medium of the past."
• iOS 18: How to change Lock Screen controls on iPhone - "1. Make sure you're running the iOS 18 beta on your iPhone (full guide). 2. Long-press on your iPhone Lock Screen. 3. Tap Customize under the Lock Screen you'd like to change. 4. Now tap Lock Screen. 5. Tap the Flashlight or Camera icon to remove them. 6. Now tap the + icon to add a new Lock Screen control. 7. Tap Done in the top right corner to set your new controls."
• How to watch Thursday’s CNN Presidential Debate - "The CNN Presidential Debate will air live on CNN, CNN International and CNN en Español, and via streaming on Max for subscribers and without a cable login on CNN.com."
• An unprecedented debate could shake up a White House race like no other - "The confrontation in Atlanta between Joe Biden and Donald Trump Thursday night has a good chance of becoming the most fateful presidential debate in US history."
• What to watch for at Biden and Trump's first debate - "President Joe Biden and ex-president Donald Trump will go head-to-head in their first debate before the 2024 election. While this is their first debate this year, both men took the stage together twice in 2020. The BBC's North America Editor Sarah Smith looks at what we can expect from the pair in this high stakes meet-up."
• The world’s most liveable cities for 2024 - "It’s considered among the most beautiful cities in the world to visit, and it seems that Vienna may also be an unbeatable place to live."
• Paris Hilton testifies to US Congress about childhood abuse - "Paris Hilton has called for change to youth treatment facilities and described her own traumatic experience of alleged abuse before a US congressional committee."
• Ultra-processed foods need tobacco-style warnings, says scientist - "UPFs should also be heavily taxed due to impact on health and mortality, says scientist who coined term."
• Fire breaks out on world’s largest cruise ship - "Crew on board the world’s largest cruise ship, the Icon of the Seas, were called on to tackle a fire this week as the gigantic vessel was berthed in a port in Mexico. The 'small fire' was 'quickly extinguished' after it broke out on Tuesday, the ship’s operator Royal Caribbean spokesperson confirmed to CNN Travel. The cruise line said there were no injuries and the overall on board impact was 'minimal.'"
• As a final nod to his ocean-faring dreams, Bill Gates has rightly named his mammoth hydrogen-powered superyacht ‘Breakthrough’ - and listed it for sale for $645 million.
• How to use ChatGPT to digitize your handwritten notes for free - "This is easily the most underrated GPT-4o feature. Writing down notes using a pen and paper scratches an itch that typing text just doesn't. Studies have shown that physically jotting down notes is a better way to retain information. That said, by writing stuff down, you miss out on the perks of digital notes. ChatGPT helps you get the best of both worlds."
• How To Be A Minimalist While Packing A Suitcase - "Here are the best tips for being a minimalist while packing a suitcase - no matter where you're jetting off to: 1. Make a List. It can be easy to overpack if you don't have a game plan. 2. Wear Neutral Colors. 3. Choose Footwear Carefully. 4. Keep a Pre-Packed Cosmetics Case. 5. Always Bring a Canvas Tote. 6. Bring Half of What You Packed."
• A Feline Scientist Explains Why Your Cat Might Actually Like You - "Cats are more social than they are often given credit for. Can you help yours access its inner dog?"
• Will Your iPhone Be Compatible With Both iOS 18 & Apple Intelligence? Find Out Here - "Even if your iPhone gets the iOS 18 update, it might not support Apple's new AI system."
• Want To Live In Italy? Tuscany Will Pay You $32,000 To Move There - "With the program, “Residenzialità in Montagna 2024” (Residentiality in the Mountains 2024), Tuscany is trying to lure new residents to its rural mountain communities with grants ranging from €10,000 (around $10,715) to €30,000 (around $32,145) to help cover the costs of purchasing and renovating a home."
• Julian Assange lands in Australia afer leaving US court a free man - "He pleaded guilty to one charge in the court in the Northern Mariana Islands on Wednesday, bringing a years-long case to an end."
• Julian Assange: the WikiLeaks founder’s fight for freedom - in pictures - "Assange has been released from prison after striking a deal with the US justice department. We look back at his life so far, including his time in custody, his interactions with supporters and celebrities at the Ecuadorian embassy in London - and the global protests calling for his freedom."
• Sir Roger Moore's Monaco tombstone desecrated - "The grave marking the resting place of Sir Roger Moore in Monaco's cemetery has been vandalised, according to a report at tmz.com."
• Expert shares clever method to get upgrade to first class for free - "'I've never paid for a first class ticket on flight - here's how I get upgraded for free'. Sitting in a luxurious business class seat, the plane passenger revealed his top tip that works every time."
• Einstein atomic bomb letter to go up for auction - "A letter from Albert Einstein, which encouraged the US to develop the world's first nuclear bombs, is to go up for auction."
• International scheme to tax billionaires' wealth technically feasible, study finds - "An international scheme to tax the wealth of the world's 3,000 billionaires is technically feasible and could net up to $250bn a year in extra revenue, a new report says."
• The Hidden Button on the Back of Your iPhone & 22 Other Settings You Can Customize - "We'll show you all the tips and tricks to personalize your iPhone to the max."
• Ahead of GPT-5 launch, another test shows that people cannot distinguish ChatGPT from a human in a conversation test - "Is it a watershed moment for AI? Controlled Turing Test delivered interesting results."
• 7 ChatGPT Prompts To Improve Your Writing - "While ChatGPT can be an impressive imitator, it can never generate your unique voice and perspective. It can, however, be a powerful tool for improving your writing, whether you’re penning business articles or important emails. It all starts with the right prompts. Here are seven that you can use to level up your writing skills."
• King's painter goes green for David Attenborough portrait - "Jonathan Yeo, whose depiction of Charles won approval from its royal subject, has now turned his palette to the 98-year-old TV naturalist for a Royal Society milestone."
• How Jonathan Yeo became Britain’s most-wanted portrait painter - "He didn’t go to art school, but royalty, supermodels and prime ministers all want Yeo to capture their likeness. So what happened when our art critic sat for him?"
• 22 best travel shoes that offer supreme comfort & support for your next trip - "Our favorite travel shoes include a variety of features perfect for most getaways, with aspects like comfortable insoles; durable - and sometimes sustainable - materials; foot-, heel- and ankle-support technology; and styles for different occasions, climates and activities."
• Julian Assange released from UK prison after agreeing US plea deal - "Julian Assange is flying back to Australia after a 12-year legal battle. Here’s what we know about his US plea deal."
• World’s best airline for 2024 named by Skytrax - "Skytrax has revealed its 2024 airline awards. Known as the Oscars of the aviation world, they recognize the best the air industry has to offer."
• Inside one of the world’s most expensive hotel suites - "Atlantis, The Royal: The Royal Mansion - an 11,840-square-foot (1,100-square-meter) four-bedroom, split-level suite - at Atlantis, The Royal, is the most expensive hotel room in Dubai, with price-on-request starting from around $100,000 per night."
• A User’s Guide To Midlife - "How to navigate its aches and pains, weight gain, perimenopause, low libido, memory loss, chronic diseases and stress."
• A.I. Is Getting Better Fast. Can You Tell What's Real Now? - "Can You Tell What's Real Now? Artificial intelligence tools can create lifelike faces and realistic photographs - and they are getting better all the time. The phony images now appear regularly on social media, with many users seeming to believe that the images are real. Can you tell the difference? Take our quiz."
• Europe's richest man, Bernard Arnault, bought 3-star Parisian bistro Chez l’Ami Louis - "The latest addition to Arnault's sprawling business empire might seem unlikely - an unassuming Parisian bistro that sells $100 roast chicken and has a 3.5-star rating on Tripadvisor. LVMH announced its purchase of Chez l'Ami Louis, a 100-year-old bistro, which the company called an 'authentic Parisian gem.'"
• 5 Lesser-Known Air Travel Tips to Use Before Heading to the Airport - "Did you know you can track your aircraft's previous flight to find out if you're likely to be delayed? Learn how and read these other tips before boarding another plane: 1. See the History of On-Time Status. FlightAware helps you track the real-time status of any flight. 2. Check the Official Record for Why Flights Are Delayed. 3. Track Your Plane's Previous Flight. 4. Look Up Where You Can Fly Direct. 5. Review the Dirty Details of Your Seat Options."
• Seat Guru: Airline Seat Maps, Flights shopping & Flight Information - "The ultimate source for airplane seating, in-flight amenities, flights shopping and airline information."
• Business Plus seats are the ‘next big thing’ in premium travel ... but how good are they? - "The next trend in premium cabin airline interiors is an exclusive new sub-class: so called 'Business Plus' seats. Unlike most cabin trends, this is one that has taken a leaf from economy cabins and low-cost carriers, bridging the gap between economy (31" legroom) and premium economy (38" legroom)."
• Flattened ears & whites of eyes: spot a horse’s danger signs - "Learning to read equine body language to judge their mood can prevent accidents - for professionals or leisure riders."
• The Classic Thriller That Put Alfred Hitchcock on the FBI’s Watchlist - "Whether it's depictions of violence, obsession, or coded sexuality, Alfred Hitchcock has never been afraid to push artistic boundaries. Notorious used a MacGuffin of uranium, coinciding with real-world nuclear concerns. Cary Grant and Ingrid Bergman shined in Notorious, portraying genuine romanticism intertwined with espionage."
• Apple AirPods Pro getting free upgrade with a hidden new audio feature - "It enables you to further adjust the level of cancellation and/or transparency yourself. Options to 'remove more noise' and 'remove less noise' have been spotted and could therefore appear in a full firmware release later this year."
• Even Apple finally admits that 8GB RAM isn't enough - "It was one thing when Apple debuted its M1 series of processors in 2020 with 8GB of unified memory, but we're now years removed from that. Based on the Predictive Code Completion requirements, it seems like it's time for Apple to bump the minimum RAM up to 16GB for the next generation of Macs."
• 3 Nuts with More Protein Than an Egg - "Each nut has its own health perks—but a few are on top when it comes to this satiating nutrient. If you were to look solely at the protein content, then peanuts, almonds and pistachios are our top picks."
• 20 Largest Economies in the World by 2050 - "The global economy is expected to grow 130% by 2050, with China projected to possess around 20% share of the world’s GDP in purchasing power parity. India is likely to surpass the United States, which is currently the largest economy in the world. The EU’s share of the world’s GDP is projected to drop below 10%."
• Why people are threatening to poo in Paris' River Seine - "Sunday was supposed to be the date Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo would swim in the Seine to prove the water was clean enough for Olympic athletes."
• People are only just realising how to make sure their suitcase is first off the plane - "The theory is that if you check in last, your bags will be loaded onto the plane last and should therefore be the first off when you reach your destination. A clever tip also suggests requesting a 'fragile' label for your suitcase; it could cut down your wait at the baggage reclaim as these stickers influence how luggage is loaded onto the aircraft."
• the unspoken airplane etiquette rules everyone should follow - "Airports are truly a microcosm of humanity, showcasing the wide range of human personalities in one area. As we step into an airport’s stressful, bustling atmosphere, we become one of several specific archetypes. Keep reading for the unspoken travel rules our editors believe everyone should follow on a flight."
• 3 Simple Ways to Check How Full Your Flight Is - "Avoid the fight over arm rests and overhead bin space by checking how full your flight is - and planning accordingly. 1. Log into your carrier’s app. 2. Sneak a peak at check-in. 3. Contact your carrier’s customer service."
• The Best Seat On The Plane For Travelers Who Want The Most Space To Themselves - "Yes, the very seats that many dread might actually be your best bet for some peace and quiet. If personal space is your top priority, consider the advice of travel experts: choose a seat at the back of the plane. Another less popular spot on planes is the bulkhead... If you've got your noise-canceling headphones ready, the bulkhead can be great for those who value their personal space. Especially the window seat."
• 25 Famous Poems That Everyone Should Read - "Poetry provides the perfect way to indulge in the escapism of reading without the commitment required to finish a novel. You can read most famous poems in a single sitting, some taking just a minute or two, and they give you a window into a new way to think."
• The world’s top universities ranked: Europe claims 2 of the top 3 spots - "The QS World University Rankings have been released, with MIT at the top of the list for the 13th consecutive year, followed by Imperial College London and the University of Oxford."
• How to spot a millennial: look at their socks - "As Gen Z will tell you, invisible socks, hidden within trainers, are deeply passé."
• What's the Least Amount of Exercise I Can Get Away With? - "Here’s how low you can go, according to experts. Getting there may require changing how we define exercise in the first place."
• Grab a Matchbook From Your Favorite Spot & Thank Me Later - "Collecting these small keepsakes can help keep the places you love alive."
• Apple issues warning for people who leave their iPhone on charge while they sleep - "Apple has told iPhone users who power their phone in slumber to 'use their common sense' to avoid potentially grievous injuries."
• Taylor Swift grabs royal selfie at London gig - "Taylor Swift grabbed a perfect royal selfie ahead of her Wembley gig - posing with the Prince of Wales and two young music fans, Prince George and Princess Charlotte."
• Oops, Justin Timberlake Did It Again - "Mr. Timberlake, the 'Mickey Mouse Club' veteran turned boy band pinup; half - along with Britney Spears - of an iconic millennial power couple; and now, as the whole wide world has learned, the dude arrested in the Hamptons early Tuesday morning and charged with driving while intoxicated."
• The Everything Guide to Partying (Without Regrets) - "Forty-three highly sociable people, from Ivy Getty to Rufus Wainwright, offer tips on how to be a stellar guest and a gracious host. Read this before you say yes to the next invitation."
• How to spend a weekend in Barcelona - "Jaime Alguersuari was once the youngest-ever F1 driver; now he's a DJ in his hometown of Barcelona. Here are his Barcelona picks, from tapas at Bar Cañete to nights out in Eixample."
• Where Parisians Escape to for Secret Beaches & Oyster Cabanas - "A guide to France’s Cap Ferret, with insider tips from Philippe Starck and three other locals."
• RosÉ on ice? The wine world's new cold war - "Ice cubes are a definite no no, say the experts, but how low should we go before we risk ruining the delicate aromas."
• Would you spend £5 to fill up your water bottle? - "Evian hopes Wimbledon fans will be taken by their latest scheme - mineral water refill stations for those willing to pay for the privilege."
• What happened when FranÇoise Sagan met Brigitte Bardot in 1976 - "The legendary novelist interviewed the famouse French actor for the Observer - their conversation was not what you might have guessed."
• 5 ways to use coffee pods without a machine - "1. Using a French Press. French press coffee maker. 2. Using a pour over method. A person pouring water over coffee. 3. Turn pods into 'coffee bags'. 4. Using a saucepan. 5. Use a Moka Pot."
• The best multitools in 2024, tried & tested - "Leatherman Skeletool CX. With a simple, straightforward set of seven tools and a knife blade made with high-quality 154CM stainless steel, the Skeletool was one of the highest-scoring multitools in our tests."
• iOS 18 home screen - 5 biggest upgrades you need to know - "iOS 18 lets you change the look and layout of your home screen."
• The biggest secret of the House of Lords: You could join it - "A little-known quirk means any citizen can apply to be a peer. Known as 'the people’s peers' programme. But you must be an expert in your field — and the interview’s scary, say the success stories."
• Are You Wearing Sunscreen the Right Way? - "You should wear sunscreen on any exposed parts of your body year-round, regardless of your skin tone, and even on days that are cloudy or cold."
• 5 Things You Do That Keep Dentists in Business - "These habits can cause a surprising amount of damage to your teeth, experts say: 1. Chewing ice. 2. Sipping energy drinks. 3. Vaping. 4. Using fluoride-free toothpaste. 5. A final note."
• Britain’s richest family sentenced to jail for exploiting staff in Swiss mansion - "Prosecutors claimed four members of family underpaid staff and gave them little freedom to leave Geneva mansion."
• Prince Harry & Meghan Markle are 'irrelevant' to the remaining royals & are 'running out of time' to rejoin the family - "William will be 'reluctant' to give his brother a role when he becomes King."
• The Royal Swifties! Prince William, George & Charlotte take a selfie with Taylor Swift - "Taylor Swift fan Prince William, along with his children George and Charlotte, took a selfie with the megastar before the rocking royal broke out his best dad dancing to the star's rendition of Shake It Off last night."
• What Is A Tourbillon & Why The New Bugatti Tourbillon Hypercar Is Named After It - "Bugatti debuted its new hypercar, the Bugatti Tourbillon and, to our pleasant surprise, its name was directly inspired by the world of watches and luxury watchmaking."
• Well Beyond the U.S., Heat & Climate Extremes Are Hitting Billions - "People all over the world are facing severe heat, floods and fire, aggravated by the use of fossil fuels. The year isn't halfway done."
• Have Climate Questions? Get Answers Here - "What's causing global warming? How can we fix it? This interactive F.A.Q. will tackle your climate questions big and small."
• At the Paris Olympics, Sex Testing Will Be in Full Force. How Did We Get Here? - "The requirements for female athletes have shifted over the eras, from crude strip searching to chromosome testing to hormone testing."
• What Your Heart Rate Can Tell You About Your Fitness - "Most fitness trackers offer a wealth of heart-rate data. Here’s how to make sense of it."
• Apple delays launch of AI-powered features in Europe, blaming EU rules - "Apple says competition rules that require functionality with rival products would compromise privacy and security. The features will launch in the fall in the US but will not arrive in Europe until 2025."
• Have an Apple Watch? You can get a rare, limited edition badge today - but you'll need to act fast - "It celebrates the International Day of Yoga."
• The sneaky, smart reasons malls have no windows - "Fewer windows and more walls meant more space for retailers to add shelves and rods to stock their products and maximize sales per square foot in their stores that would otherwise be lost to a dull view of a mall parking lot. But the sneakiest reason why malls limit windows could be to make shoppers lose track of time."
• Naomi Campbell & the black models who changed the face of fashion - "As a new exhibition opens in London exploring the career of Naomi Campbell, Britain's first black supermodel, a look at the women who forged a path in fashion - including the first black American Vogue cover model, Beverly Johnson."
• Does a cave beneath Pembroke Castle hold key to fate of early Britons? - "Scientists hope wealth of prehistoric material in Wogan Cavern in Wales is well preserved enough to reveal what really happened to our most ancient ancestors."
• Monaco in Figures 2024 - "‘Monaco in Figures’, the highly anticipated annual compendium of statistics published by the Monegasque Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies (IMSEE), is now online. 2023 was a year of growth in the Principality, with Monaco’s job market flourishing last year, growing by 3.4 percent compared to 2022. Monaco now boasts 73,707 jobs, nearly double its population of 38,367 residents. Monaco’s fiscal strength shone brightly in 2023, recording 2.2 billion euros in revenues against 2.07 billion in expenditures, achieving a surplus of 126.3 million euros."
• Summer solstice - in pictures - "Summer has started in the northern hemisphere. A summer solstice occurs for Earth’s upper half when the northern hemisphere is angled most closely toward the sun. The summer solstice marks the longest day and shortest night of the year."
• Your Guide to the Heat - "It’s the first major heat wave of 2024. If you vacation during the heat wave, experts advise that you keep your sightseeing to the evening and early morning. 'In the mid- to late afternoon you either go back to the hotel to sit by the pool or go to the beach,' one travel agent said. To cool a home without A.C., close blinds and use stick-on solar film."
• Donald Sutherland, Don’t Look Now & Hunger Games actor, dies aged 88 - "The prolific actor appeared in more than 190 films and TV shows and was a vocal anti-war activist."
• Donald Sutherland: a life in pictures - "Actor Donald Sutherland has died at the age of 88. Best known for his early counter-culture roles and anti-Vietnam war stance, here we look back on his varied film career that included Don’t Look Now, M*A*S*H, Kelly’s Heroes and The Hunger Games."
• Royal Ascot Ladies' Day in pictures - "The third day of flat racing at Royal Ascot in Berkshire is one for women to show off their millinery and fashion."
• Queen catalogue breaks record with £1 billion sale - "The band are reported to have sold portions of their music catalogues to Sony, rivalling Michael Jackson’s record-breaking deal."
• Winklevoss twins donate $1m each to Trump as champion of cryptocurrency - "Crypto tycoons claim Biden has ‘openly declared war against crypto’ in lengthy critique of administration policy."
• Cryogenic chambers & infrared capsules. This ‘fitness hotel’ is taking wellness tech to the next level - "Opened in February in the new One Za’abeel, SIRO is Dubai’s 'first fitness hotel,' focusing on health and wellbeing, with exercise and recovery programs, and hotel rooms and experiences aiming to level up guests’ fitness. Its high-tech treatments, including the MLX i3Dome help guests recover quicker from intense exercise, to keep them on the move."
• Chinatown at 50: has there been a greater screenplay since? - "The 1974 noir boasts standout acting from Jack Nicholson and director Roman Polanski at peak form but it’s Robert Towne’s deft, intelligent script that takes breath away."
• Chinatown: The real-life California scandal that inspired the iconic Los Angeles thriller - "Now 50 years old, Chinatown is one of the all-time great crime films - and that's partly because of a potent story based on the real history of California's so-called 'water wars'."
• Bugatti's new car is a $4 million, 1800 horsepower hybrid - "The Bugatti Tourbillon is a plug-in hybrid with a 16-cylinder engine and three electric motors."
• A French culinary icon's guide to Paris' restaurants - "Michelin-starred female chef Anne-Sophie Pic dishes on her favourite restaurants in Paris right now, from the iconic Chez l’Ami Louis to newcomer Table - Bruno Verjus."
• Secrets of a Perfect Desk Lunch | How to Make a Healthy Work Lunch - "The goal with a midday meal is to consume the right mix of lean protein, healthy fats and complex carbohydrates. That generally works out to about 25 percent protein, 25 percent unsaturated fats and 50 percent complex carbohydrates. Here’s how to make it happen."
• A Sock War Is Afoot Between Millennials & Gen Z - "Social media is awash in another intergenerational fashion debate: Ankle socks or crew socks?"
• Buggy AirPods? Try This Simple Factory Reset Tip for Your Apple Earbuds - "If your AirPods are getting buggy, it could call for a factory reset. Here's how to quickly get that done: Tap Forget This Device, and tap again to confirm. 4. Now that your AirPods are forgotten, open the lid, press and hold the button on the back of the case for about 15 seconds, or until the status light flashes amber, then white."
• The mystical pagan traditions still celebrated in Sweden at Midsummer - "Midsummer is the quintessential Swedish celebration and a highlight in the cultural calendar. Typically, it’s spent with friends and family at someone’s summer house."
• Switzerland’s most walkable city is a fairytale gem with gorgeous natural beauty - "A beautiful city on the shores of Lake Geneva is Switzerland's most walkable destination. According to a recent study on walkability, Lausanne is one of the world's most walkable cities and more than 50 percent of its residents walk or cycle to walk. The French-speaking city sits on the shores of Lake Geneva and has a global feel as it's home to the International Olympic Committee headquarters."
• Ancient beach destroyed by Mount Vesuvius eruption in 79AD reopens after restoration - "The beach at the Herculaneum archaeological park is thought to be the site where more than 300 men tried in vain to save themselves from the natural disaster in 79AD while awaiting rescue by a civil protection force directed by the admiral and illustrious Roman scholar Pliny the Elder."
• Is It Time To Revise The “Holy Trinity” Of Watchmaking? - "Recently, we noticed that the term 'Holy Trinity' tends to trigger people. The term is used to characterize three watch brands — Audemars Piguet, Patek Philippe, and Vacheron Constantin."
• ‘Swatch has no competition’ in its Swiss-made watch segment - "After a long decline that began in the mid-1990s, the Swatch brand is heading for record sales this year. The recovery is due to the launching of the 'MoonSwatch' two years ago, but also to an industrial innovation that recently celebrated its tenth anniversary."
• 24 brands who've gone big on retro-inspired watches this year - "They look like vintage grails from the depths of the archives - but from Louis Vuitton to Tudor, the most coveted releases of 2024 are all brand new."
• 10 reasons why titanium watches should be a summertime staple - "Starting with the paradox that they are as lightweight as they are unbreakable - almost."
• Late Night Trolls Trump After Report of ‘Severe Memory Issues’ - "'I’m starting to think Trump writes his name on buildings just so he can remember where he lives,' Jimmy Fallon said."
• Prevent low back pain with this simple lifestyle change - "Low back pain affects at least 619 million people worldwide, and that number is expected to increase to 843 million people by 2050, according to research estimates. There is an easy, free way to prevent low back pain, at least for a while, according to a new randomized clinical trial."
• 3 Warren Buffett Stocks to Hold Forever - "1. Cola-Cola (NYSE: KO) is Berkshire Hathaway's fourth-largest holding, with 400 million shares. That's 6.6% of its portfolio and also amounts to a 9.3% stake in Coca-Cola."
• The 18 Best Wines, From Krug RosÉ Champagne to Cardinale Cabernet Sauvignon - "Distinct offerings from names like Pahlmeyer to Gérard Bertrand add flavor to your cellar."
• Sotheby's to Hold the Biggest Champagne-Only Auction to Date - "The Largest Private Wine Collection Ever Auctioned Is Heading to Sotheby’s. Part of a series of sales around the globe, the next two will feature Champagne and Burgundy."
• Who Owns Alexander the Great? It’s a Diplomatic Minefield - "North Macedonia has claimed historical figures as part of a drive to build a national identity. That has ruffled the feathers of the Balkan nation’s neighbors."
• DNA From Beethoven's Hair Reveals a Surprise Some 200 Years Later - "One stormy Monday in March, 1827, the German composer Ludwig van Beethoven passed away after a protracted illness."
• Spatial Audio now works over AirPlay with iOS 18 - "'AirPlay adds Spatial Audio so users can get an immersive audio experience, including support for Dolby Atmos, when using AirPlay to stream audio from iPhone and iPad to HomePod and compatible third-party audio equipment,' Apple says on its website."
• Why humans are drawn to the ends of the Earth - "Despite the risks, costs and environmental concerns of extreme tourism, people are still drawn to potentially dangerous trips - but why?"
• More than 550 hajj pilgrims die in Mecca as temperatures exceed 50C - "At least 320 of the dead are from Egypt and Saudi officials report treating more than 2,000 people for heat stress."
• The 10 cities with the most millionaires - "New York, Tokyo, and Paris are among the cities with the most wealthy residents, according to a new report by Henley & Partners, a firm that specializes in helping uber-rich clients invest their way into gaining residence and citizenship in various countries."
• Insights into the World’s Top 10 Wealthiest Cities & Rising Wealth Hubs - "In the dynamic global economic landscape, certain cities persistently stand as beacons of prosperity, commanding attention for their unparalleled wealth and influence, and drawing affluent investors to reside within their limits."
• Ricky Gervais ‘savagely’ trolls Justin Timberlake over drink-driving arrest - "Comedian set his sights on the singer after his arrest in the US."
• Look of the Week: Brooke Shields makes no apologies for her red carpet Crocs - "Stepping out in a pair of sunny Crocs to match her bright yellow Monique Lhuillier gown, the star made absolutely zero apologies for the sure-to-be controversial footwear choice, playfully lifting her dress to reveal to reporters she had indeed traded in heels for practical clogs."
• Naomi Campbell at the V&A: ‘A Pandora’s box’ of memories - "When the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) dedicates an entire show to one person, particularly one whose career is still very much ongoing, it's usually a sign that A-list stardust is incoming. The south Londoner now follows in the footsteps of the likes of David Bowie, Frida Kahlo and Kylie, who have also had solo exhibitions at the prestigious London museum."
• Anouk AimÉe - a life in pictures - "The Oscar-nominated star of A Man and a Woman, who has died aged 92, embodied the bohemian glamour of the French New Wave."
• Dubai’s viral super-chunky chocolate bar - "On TikTok, gooey, crunchy, loaded chocolate bars are going viral. Bursting with unusual fillings such as filo pastry, vanilla custard, or tea and biscuits, these chunky chocolate bars originate from Fix Dessert Chocolatier."
• Best Scotch for every type of drinker - "The distilleries that dot Scotland, from the Hebrides islands to the highlands, bring so many amazing, comforting malts with distinct hallmarks of each region."
• The 30 Best Starbucks Drinks - Ever - "I’m a Former Starbucks Barista, and These Are the 30 Best Starbucks Drinks of All Time."
• 57 Sandwiches That Define New York City - "A portrait of the five boroughs between two slices of bread."
• New HomePod coming soon? What Apple Intelligence means for the smart speaker’s future - "Apple currently sells two different HomePod models: the HomePod (2nd generation) and the HomePod mini. In comparing the two products, they both contain chips that seem unlikely to support Apple Intelligence—meaning, no new and improved Siri, and likely no ChatGPT integration."
• Bill Gates explains his vision for nuclear power - "Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates talks to CNN's Fareed Zakaria about building a nuclear power plant in Wyoming and the future of nuclear energy."
• Striking photos show how our planet is changing - for better & for worse - "A photograph of a solitary man walking along terraces in China, rust-red rivers in Alaska and a gargantuan western red cedar are among the winning images of the Earth Photo 2024 competition."
• Britain's richest family spent more on their pet dog than they did on one of their servants - "Staff at the Hindujas’ Lake Geneva villa have accused four members of the billionaire family of trafficking and exploitation."
• Geriatric millionaires: why boomers keep getting wealthier - "The older generation now accounts for half the combined net worth of the US - and in the UK they hold 78% of the UK’s private housing wealth."
• Does what happens on your iPhone still stay on your iPhone? - "Apple’s famous slogan that suggested total privacy is being tested in the age of AI. Plus: is it time to give up on smartphones all together?"
• McDonald's removes AI drive-throughs after order errors - "A trial of the system - which uses voice recognition software to process orders - was announced in 2019. It has not proved entirely reliable however - resulting in viral videos of bizarre misinterpreted orders. ranging from bacon-topped ice cream to hundreds of dollars worth of chicken nuggets."
• Seven of the UK's loveliest high streets - "These atmospheric spots from North Berwick to Stamford have indie retailers, antique shops, and great restaurants - plus lovely places to stay nearby."
• Europe doesn’t get more far-flung, or magical, than this breathtaking place - "European destinations don't get much more far-flung than the Faroe Islands, between Britain and Iceland."
• Why the British are obsessed with the Cotswolds - "The countryside idyll in Oxfordshire is having a moment, and as the super-rich descend upon it, books and TV dramas are depicting the wealthy set of this rural enclave."
• How Tesla Shareholders Upheld Elon Musk’s Sky-High Pay - "Tesla shareholders on Thursday voted to reaffirm a roughly $48 billion compensation package for Elon Musk, which was originally approved in 2018 and was nullified by a judge early this year."
• If You’ve Never Used the iPhone Shortcuts App, Here’s the Best Way to Get Started - "Shortcuts is a powerful app that speeds up and automates simple repetitive actions. Learning how to use Shortcuts to compliment your daily iPhone or Mac use and save time and effort. Here’s how to get started."
• House of Beckham by Tom Bower review - a symphony of snide - "With little fresh detail on show, this biography offers instead a masterclass in insinuation and class-coded curiosities."
• Anouk AimÉe, star of La Dolce Vita & A Man and a Woman, dies aged 92 - "The French actor was one of the key faces of the New Wave, starring in classics by directors including Federico Fellini, Jacques Demy and Claude Lelouch."
• 8 Best Drip Coffee Makers for Stellar At-Home Coffee - "Getting good coffee at home is as easy as quality beans and one of these no-brainer machines."
• Why the US is the top country for tourism in 2024 - "A new report published by the World Economic Forum highlights the nation's promotion of natural and cultural resources and commitment to sustainability and tourism."
• This city has been ranked the most expensive for expats in 2024 - "Hong Kong has once again taken the title of most costly city for overseas workers in the 2024 Mercer Cost of Living Survey, which was released Monday."
• At least 14 pilgrims die during hajj pilgrimage amid soaring temperatures - "Jordanians died in Saudi Arabia after suffering heatstroke, said officials, with temperatures reaching 47C in Mecca."
• iPhone 17 To Feature A ‘Significantly Skinnier’ Chassis - "Apple Shifts Away From Making Thicker Devices, As Shown With The M4 iPad Pro LaunchApple Shifts Away From Making Thicker Devices, As Shown With The M4 iPad Pro Launch."
• Apple’s New iPhone Function When Your Battery Dies Beats Samsung & Google - "You know the situation: your phone is dead, and you have no idea what the time is because you rely on your phone for that. A new feature coming to the iPhone in this fall’s iOS 18 update means you can still catch that train (or at least know whether it’s worth running for it or not)."
• Should you switch to matcha or stick with coffee? - "Considered by many to be superior to coffee, Matcha has been treasured for centuries for its restorative powers."
• Is Buttermilk Tres Leches the Perfect Cake? - "An Appalachian twist on a classic Latin American dessert connects cultures and identities for a pastry chef. 'For me the soaked cake really comes alive, and gets personal, in tres-leches cake. If baba au rhum is the king, this, my friends, is the queen.'"
• An Old Medicine Grows New Hair for Pennies a Day, Doctors Say - "Dermatologists who specialize in hair loss say that the key ingredient in a topical treatment worked even better when taken orally at a low dose."
• In it to win it: how to maximise your chances in competitions - "Enter lots of contests, think of prizes as potential presents but beware of scammers."
• can you inherit memories from your ancestors? - "The science of epigenetics suggests we can pass on trauma - but trust and compassion too."
• Angelina Jolie & Daniel Radcliffe win first Tony Awards - "Elsewhere, Hollywood star Jeremy Strong won his first Tony for lead actor in a play for An Enemy of the People."
• Tony awards 2024: red carpet looks & best of the show - in pictures - "Jeremy Strong, Daniel Radcliffe, Ariana DeBose and Angelina Jolie were among the crowd for the 77th annual Tony awards, held in New York on Sunday."
• The beautiful lake named the 'best in Europe' that belongs to two different countries - "Lake Lugano is one of Europe's most charming holiday destinations for tourists this summer. This stunning body of water stretches across two countries, Switzerland and Italy, seemingly blending in the best aspects of both nations."
• A New Way to Talk About Heat - "Record-breaking temperatures are pushing experts and public health officials to come up with a new vocabulary to warn the public about extreme heat."
• The Rolls-Royce Regatta is a yacht-inspired Wraith that never made it past design - "It’s a customized version of the Rolls-Royce Wraith. The designer also has a private jet concept inspired by the same yacht."
• The blacklisted Hollywood writer who won two Oscars - "Dalton Trumbo - who went on to write Roman Holiday and Spartacus - was accused of spreading subversive ideas through his films, and imprisoned. In 1960, he told the BBC about his experiences."
• Historic writer's desk could be 'knackered' old fake - "The desk of the writer Dr Samuel Johnson is to be returned to his former London home for the first time in more than 260 years."
• The wine gadget sommeliers say can make your £10 bottle taste better - "When a British inventor first built his homemade oxygen pump it turned his reds brown. Now it’s won over independent experts - but does our wine columnist agree?"
• Is That Drink Worth It to You? - "Alcohol is riskier than previously thought, but weighing the trade-offs of health risks can be deeply personal."
• How Red Wine Lost Its Health Halo - "For a glorious decade or two, the drink was lauded as good for the heart. What happened?"
• I walked for 90 minutes every day for two years - here’s what changed for me - "The best thing I've ever done. Taking a low-impact walk every morning improved my mood, boosted my wellbeing and made me appreciate nature, and it didn't cost a thing."
• Mapped: The 10 Hottest & Coldest Countries in the World - "This visualization shows the world’s hottest and coldest countries (and some territories) by their average temperature in 2022."
• Avicii’s dad: 'I miss him every minute, but I get angry at him for leaving' - "On April 20, 2018, the world lost a music superstar, chart-topping DJ Avicii. Aged just 28, he tragically took his own life while on holiday in Oman."
• Living Out Loud, Headphones Nowhere to Be Found - "Welcome to their conversation. (Or YouTube video. Or baseball game.) For people bothered by the liberal use of speakerphones, the public sphere can be a circle of hell."
• If You Know What ‘Brainrot’ Means, You Might Already Have It - "A popular term captures the condition of being terminally online, with humor and pathos. The term refers primarily to low-value internet content and the effects caused by spending too much time consuming it. Example: 'I've been watching so many TikToks, I have brainrot.'"
• Jane Birkin: Decades of Effortless Elegance - "The British-French singer, actress and style icon may have been known as the inspiration for the Birkin bag, but she was so much more."
• I Tried the 90/90 Rule & Fully Decluttered My Closet in an Hour - "Created by Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus of The Minimalists, the 90/90 rule is a decluttering process that requires you to ask yourself two questions about objects you’re not sure about: Have you used it in the past 90 days? And if not, will you use it in the 90 days ahead?"
• The 10 streaming TV shows everyone is addicted to right now - "The streaming TV shows everyone is addicted to right now on Disney+, Netflix, Apple TV+ and more."
• Every new iMessage feature coming to your iPhone in iOS 18 - "You can bold, italicize, underline, and strikethrough words in the Messages app with iOS 18. You can also apply animated effects to any letter, word, phrase, or emoji. For example, you can make content appear bigger or smaller, or have it 'explode' or 'nod,' and much more."
• 6 Little iOS 18 Features That Will Make the Biggest Change to Your iPhone - "1. Scheduling Messages. 2. Passwords App. 3. Emoji Tapbacks. 4. Lock Apps. 5. Phone Call Recording. 6. Messages Via Satellite."
• Apple is finally letting you have it your way - kinda - "iOS 18 gives you more freedom than ever to customize your iPhone home screen, but it's not a free-for-all. Apple makes sure the iPhone still looks like an iPhone."
• How to download watchOS 11 on your Apple Watch right now - "The latest update for the Apple Watch is now ready for early adopters to take for a spin. Here's how to download watchOS 11 right now."
• Accessible & ‘a pleasure to read’: how Apple’s podcast transcriptions came to be - "Apple rolled out a feature highly requested by both disabled users and podcast creators. Why did it take so long?"
• Larry David on Ending Curb Your Enthusiasm & Staying True to His Roots - "'We have our fans, and they don’t want us to be politically correct,' David tells Vanity Fair. 'They don’t care about wokeness.'"
• How does the 5:2 diet work? Eight simple meal plans for fasting days - "Cutting calories to 500-600 two days a week is still one of the best ways to lose weight, says Peta Bee - here's how to do it."
• From cold showers to hot tomatoes: 10 of Michael Mosley’s top health tips - "The TV presenter who died this month was full of ideas for single actions that could benefit body and mind."
• The Chilling Reason You May Never See the New Trump Movie - "This week I finally got to see 'The Apprentice,' an absorbing, disturbing movie about the relationship between the red-baiting mob lawyer Roy Cohn and a young Donald Trump."
• FranÇoise Hardy: A Life in Photos - "The French pop star Françoise Hardy, who died on Tuesday at the age of 80, was celebrated for her beauty and style."
• BeReal - "Your Daily Dose of Real Life. Meaningful connections. Spontaneous moments. Authentic real life." Everyday get a notification to share a genuine glimpse into your real life with the people you care most about. Main feature is a daily notification that encourages users to share photos with friends of themselves and their day to day life given a randomly selected two-minute window every day.
• Petra Ecclestone: the heiress who downsized her blingy life - "Robberies, arson, alleged domestic violence - Petra Ecclestone has experienced her share of drama. But that’s all changed since she married her second husband."
• Castle Howard succession battle puts family members in competition - "For eight generations the stewardship of Castle Howard - the stately home instantly recognisable from the television dramas Bridgerton and Brideshead Revisited - has passed from father to son."
• From religious propaganda to symbol of a nation: The story of Rio’s Christ Redeemer statue - "It stands nearly 100 foot tall on a perilous peak: Here’s how they built Rio’s Christ the Redeemer."
• Tesla shareholders approve CEO Elon Musk’s $45bn pay package - "Billionaire tells shareholders ‘hot damn, I love you guys’ after retaining largest-ever executive pay package at US-listed firm."
• These cities are now so expensive they’re considered ‘impossibly unaffordable’ - "Top 10 “impossibly unaffordable” cities: 1. Hong Kong. 2. Sydney. 3. Vancouver. 4. San Jose. 5. Los Angeles. 6. Honolulu. 7. Melbourne. 8. San Francisco/Adelaide. 9. San Diego. 10. Toronto."
• El NiÑo is dead. Here’s what to expect in the coming months - "With El Niño out of the spotlight, its opposite is preparing to take center stage later this summer: La Niña. Here’s what a summer without El Niño and a budding La Niña could have in store."
• What is the ‘hot rodent’ trend & how do men feel about it? - "Men are being compared to rodents across the internet. But how do they feel about it?"
• China Is Testing More Driverless Cars Than Any Other Country - "Assisted driving systems and robot taxis are becoming more popular with government help, as cities designate large areas for testing on public roads."
• What Actually Helps With Hair Loss - "Male-pattern baldness hits half of men by age 50. Here’s what to know about treatment and prevention."
• The Joys & Perils of Return Travel - "For those of us who love to travel, the question of whether to revisit a place is a repeated conundrum. You go back to some places to see certain people or to visit in the company of new people. You return to see what you missed or to see it again."
• We Spent $20980 to See Formula 1 Grand Prix in Monaco - "The luxury yacht party and epic balcony views weren't even the best parts. Overall, attending the Grand Prix in person was worth the money for us. Our first taste of Monaco had our hearts racing - and the experience will be incredibly tough to top."
• A 20-Minute Core Workout for Strength & Stability - "This series of exercises focuses on important muscles in the legs and torso we use every day. No equipment (and very little space) necessary."
• If a man wants to be happy in his 60s & beyond, say goodbye to these 8 behaviors - "There’s a clear line between simply existing and finding true happiness, especially as we age. This divide often comes down to habits. Some behaviors we’ve clung to for years, even decades, could be the very things robbing us of joy in our golden years."
• How to age well? We ask Singaporean photographer Chuando Tan, 58, who looks half his age - "Singaporean influencer Chuando Tan, 58, says diet and exercise are key to looking and feeling younger than our age, as is a positive outlook."
• 10 Best Nordic Noir Movies, Ranked - "Given the enduring popularity of the genre, it's no surprise that the film industry worldwide has also embraced it, with Nordic countries excelling in this area."
• iOS 18 just made the iPhone 15 Pro's Action button even better - here’s how - "Apple's letting third party camera apps use a bunch of shortcuts — Action button included."
• iOS 18: 5 delightful little features that didn't make the WWDC keynote - "Apple’s making dozens of changes to iOS, and sometimes its the small changes that have the biggest impact. 1. Flexible charge limits for iPhone 15. 2. Improved Apple Music queue. 3. New flashlight interface with beam control. 4. Another way to power off your iPhone. 5. New Calendar month view."
• What Is Prompt Engineering: A Complete Guide - " It involves creating, refining, and optimizing prompts to achieve more accurate, relevant, and useful responses from AI systems like ChatGPT."
• How to Use AI-Powered Grammarly to Do All of Your Editing - "Mistake-free writing is within reach - and free."
• 13 Best Espresso Machines 2024 | The Strategist - "These will start your morning off right."
• Sylvester Stallone's Grandmaster Chime Sells For $5.4 Million, Evaluating Vintage Patek Philippe Condition & More From New York - "Up close and way too personal with three Patek 1463 chronographs to discuss condition."
• A flight attendant’s secrets to surviving long-haul flights - "Any air travel can be stressful, but facing down a long-haul flight can be especially intimidating. Should you prioritize sleeping or eating, or both? Should you attempt to exercise in the aisle? Is it ever acceptable to take off your shoes?"
• Secrets of the grandest Budapest hotel of them all - "For most of the last century, the story of the Gresham Palace closely mirrored that of the city in which it was built. In June 2004 to become one of the city’s, perhaps even central Europe’s, grandest hotels."
• You Lost Your Passport. Now What? - "Summer travel season is upon us. Do you know where your passport is?"
• 10 things that can affect a man’s sexual health & what to do about them - "What men can do to maintain a healthy sex life."
• Apple Finally Brings the Whoop's Best Fitness Feature to the Apple Watch - "With its new operating system, the Apple Watch will soon become the fitness tracker it always promised to be. In a nutshell, Training Load will track the intensity of your workouts over time using metrics such as heart race, pace and elevation, then deliver a score from 1 to 10."
• Why everyone's getting the Apple Watch Ultra 2 right now - "The watch is much faster and more responsive thanks to Apple's upgraded processor. Plus, health tracking is more accurate than ever before."
• Fitness instructor says these 3 beginner-friendly moves are the best way to build full-body muscle - "You only need a pair of dumbbells and some space."
• iOS 18’s new iMessage features make me wish everyone I know had an iPhone - "iOS 18 will introduce several new features to iMessage, including ways to highlight specific words, add any emoji or sticker to messages through the Tapback menu, and also schedule messages to be sent at a specific time."
• How the Klitschkos used fame to aid Ukraine's war effort - "Vitali Klitschko was only a year into his retirement from boxing when he was elected mayor of Ukrainian capital Kyiv in 2014."
• From David Bowie to Florence Welch, 10 of the most iconic Glastonbury Festival looks - "As Europe's largest music festival approaches, we look back at the event's most memorable style moments both on and off stage: from Barbours and Wellies to silver suits and boho chic."
• The Best Dressed People in Hollywood Are Not the Actors - "Cinephiles can't seem to help obsessing over their favorite filmmakers' personal style."
• 10 Everyday Items That Are Now Luxuries for the Middle Class - "Going to the store to pick up basic purchases now seems unaffordable. You’ve likely noticed that your grocery bill is higher even though you’re buying the same things you’ve always purchased."
• France revives the 1,000-year-old Cultural Olympiad. We checked it out - "When painting and sculpture were Olympic events. For nearly 1,000 years, the Greek games featured artistic competitions alongside athletic ones. Now, this ancient tradition is inspiring France's new Cultural Olympiad."
• Eagle attacks, red invaders & a genetic bottleneck: inside the fight to save arctic foxes - "Captive breeding in Norway has built up numbers endangered by the climate crisis and golden eagles but only a more diverse population will survive in the long term."
• FOR OUR POSTERITY by Leopold Aschenbrenner - "I recently founded an investment firm focused on AGI, with anchor investments from Patrick Collison, John Collison, Nat Friedman, and Daniel Gross. Before that, I worked on the Superalignment team at OpenAI. My aspiration is to secure the blessings of liberty for our posterity."
• Miniskirts & masculine looks: how FranÇoise Hardy epitomised French chic - in pictures - "Celebrated for her insouciant cool and varied style, the late singer was a muse across decades of fashion. Here are some of her greatest ensembles."
• This isn't the headquarters of a Silicon Valley tech giant; it’s Rolex’s upcoming billion-dollar factory - "Rolex roughly produced around 1.24 million watches last year, earning the iconic watchmaker a revenue of $11.5 billion. Around ten times as many watches as Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet combined. Yet, there are long waiting lists for many of the popular Rolex models, with some exceeding two years. Set to open in 2029, the new manufacturing facility is located in Bulle, a small municipality in the district of Gruyère, Switzerland."
• Hunter Biden conviction shatters Trump’s persecution narrative - "The country’s divergent possible paths under President Joe Biden or presumptive GOP nominee Donald Trump were highlighted in the way both men, their families and their political operations reacted to the twin trials and verdicts."
• Can Apple Rescue the Vision Pro? - "The $3,500 'spatial computing' device has gathered dust on my shelf. Can tweaks and upgrades save it from obsolescence?"
• To Understand Elon Musk’s Descent, Look at His $46 Billion Pay Package - "He wanted to jump-start the decarbonization of human civilization’s energy. He succeeded. He drove Tesla to create the electric vehicle industry as we know it. Yes, he overpromised. But he often overdelivered and overdelivered spectacularly. Truly wonderful things happened with Tesla’s performance as a technology inventor, deliverer and deployer."
• Eight of the best places to swim in Copenhagen - "Copenhagen’s lifeblood is saltwater: the ribbon of blue makes its way from the former shipyards at Refshaleøen through the ancient heart of the city and out to the clear waters of the Øresund Strait at the other end. No matter where you are in the Danish capital, you’re never far from it."
• The sad, stupid rise of the sigma male: how toxic masculinity took over social media - "His heroes are Patrick Bateman, John Wick, Tommy Shelby and Walter White. He follows Andrew Tate and idolises wolves. And he has quickly become a laughing stock. Welcome to the world of the sigma male."
• ‘It’s unbearable’: in ever-hotter US cities, air conditioning is no longer enough - "Record-breaking temperatures in the last few years shatter the myth that air conditioning alone will keep people safe."
• Et voila! Voltaire statue returns to Paris after four-year absence - "Following a mystery disappearance sparking outrage and rumour, the original damaged and fragile figure has been replaced by a ‘very fine’ copy."
• Is That Dog Actually a ... Human? - "TikTok is onto Goldendoodles, the designer dog breed that is a cross between golden retriever and poodle, noting that they exhibit quite a few person-like qualities."
• Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes asks court to overturn fraud conviction - "Lawyers say improper procedures call for new trials for Holmes, who has an 11-year sentence, and Sunny Balwani."
• Peak Japan: why foreign tourists are going mad for Mount Fuji - "An unencumbered view of Fuji is something to treasure - so much so that a real estate developer this week agreed to tear down a nearly completed apartment block in western Tokyo because it blocked residents’ view of the mountain."
• What’s new in Apple Notes for iOS 18: collapsible sections, highlights & more - "Notes will automatically detect where you have a heading or subheading and make the contents underneath that heading collapsible."
• I found a hidden Nespresso setting & it's a game-changer - "This viral Nespresso hack is solving all my Vertuo woes. I discovered Expert Mode, which gives you the option of overriding your Vertuo's pre-set shot lengths and automatically brewing a shorter shot, no matter the size of your capsule."
• The Best in Automotive, From Gordon Murray’s T.50s to the Rolls-Royce Spectre - "Our annual list of the industry’s most most powerful and exciting autos, from supercar to motorcycle."
• A Comprehensive History of the Automatic Watch - "A closer look at a mundane mechanism that we too often take for granted... Eliminating the need for regular hand-winding, the automatic watch harnesses the energy from the natural motion of the wearer’s wrist to wind the mainspring that powers the watch."
• Everything Apple announced at its big AI event - "Apple just kicked off a brand new era for the company with the introduction of its first generative AI features for the iPhone. The company unveiled the first batch of tools powered by 'Apple Intelligence.'"
• iOS 18: Here’s the list of iPhone models compatible with the update - "The new version of the iPhone operating system comes with a new Home Screen that lets users customize the icons, as well as a redesigned Photos app, Apple Intelligence, and much more. And if you’re wondering whether your iPhone is compatible with iOS 18, we have the answer."
• Apple’s AirPods are being upgraded with powerful accessibility features - "Apple’s adding a ‘seamless hands-free experience’ to control Siri with AirPods."
• Move over diamonds, these little-known gemstones are heating up - "Found in Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Vietnam, Afghanistan, Tajikistan and some African countries, spinels come in a range of colors, from vivid blue, pink and red to dusky grey, green and purple. Collectors look beyond the so-called 'Big Four' (diamonds, emeralds, rubies and sapphires) for more affordable, niche gemstones that may just be a shrewd investment."
• These chefs & restaurants are the 2024 James Beard Award winners - "The Oscars of the food world - the James Beard Awards - were handed out Monday night to many chefs and restaurants reflecting cultures and regions that have long been overlooked when honoring culinary achievement in the United States."
• Elephants call each other by name, study finds - "Researchers used artificial intelligence algorithm to analyse calls by two herds of African savanna elephants in Kenya."
• Can You Guess What Percentage Of Their Wealth The Rich Keep In Cash? - "According to the U.S. Trust Survey of Affluent Americans, high-net-worth investors with over $3 million in investable assets hold an average of 15% of their portfolios in cash and cash equivalents. This allocation allows for ample liquidity to seize investment opportunities or cover large expenses as they arise."
• What happens to your body in extreme heat? The main signs of heatstroke - "The death of Dr Michael Mosley on the Greek isle of Symi shows that high temperatures pose a serious health risk, regardless of your age or physical condition."
• The secret to longer life: a diet that also benefits the planet - "The plant-heavy, meat-light ‘planetary health diet’ was associated with a reduced risk of every leading cause of death and a lower carbon footprint. It would mean more than a doubling in consumption of healthy food including fruits, vegetables, pulses and nuts, and a halving in red meat. 'Shifting how we eat can help slow the process of climate change,' Willett said. 'And what's healthiest for the planet is also healthiest for humans.'"
• Tracking blood sugar with your Apple Watch just got way easier - "A company called Dexcom manufactures, produces, and distributes continuous glucose monitoring systems (CGM) that help those who need to manage diabetes. It’s one of the more prominent and popular brands for CGMs, and it’s making it even easier to monitor your blood sugar levels with an Apple Watch even when your iPhone isn’t nearby."
• What Is the Best Way to Cut an Onion? - "Your first cuts are straight up and down with your knife tip pointed toward the root end of the onion. The goal is to cut through most of the onion but leave each 'slice' connected near the root end. The cookbook author Kenji López-Alt dives deep into a question of his own, with computer models and all."
• 7 Best Economy Seats for Long-Haul Flights - "These cabins offer respectable legroom, seat width, and recline to help you get (reasonably) comfortable on longer flights."
• Man who’s lived on cruise ship for more than 20 years reveals cost of his unusual lifestyle - "Living on a cruise ship is getting more appealing in these recent (and very expensive) times, and a man who has done it for decades has broken down his cost of living."
• WWDC24 | 2024 Apple Worldwide Developers Conference - "Join Apple and the worldwide developer community on June 10 at 10 a.m. PT for WWDC24." Official website.
• Hey, Siri! Let’s Talk About How Apple Is Giving You an A.I. Makeover - "Apple, a latecomer to artificial intelligence, has struck a deal with OpenAI and developed tools to improve its Siri voice assistant, which it is set to showcase on Monday."
• Biden Loves to Tell Tall Tales. We Cut Them Down to Size - "By President Biden’s account, he was a fierce civil rights activist in his youth, had an uncle who fell prey to cannibals and used to drive an 18-wheeler."
• If Trump Wins - "Here are some of his plans for cracking down on immigration, directing the Justice Department to prosecute his adversaries, increasing presidential power, upending America’s trade policies, retreating militarily from Europe and unilaterally deploying troops to Democratic-run cities."
• Where O.J. Simpson Found Acceptance, No Questions Asked - "Las Vegas became a refuge that many believe Mr. Simpson did not deserve in his final years. There, he found an unlikely group of friends."
• Jeff Bezos owns a $10 million Swiss private jet. See inside the Pilatus PC-24 with its unusual toilet in the galley - "Jeff Bezos owns a $10 million Swiss private jet. See inside the Pilatus PC-24 with its unusual toilet in the galley. Jeff Bezos owns three private jets worth $140 million in total, per JetSpy data. That includes a Pilatus PC-24, which the Swiss company calls 'the world's only super versatile jet.'"
• England’s Social Event of the Year: The Duke of Westminster’s Wedding - "Hugh Grosvenor, the seventh Duke of Westminster, married Olivia Henson today at the Chester Cathedral in Chester, England, with Prince William serving as usher."
• Therapy is more than lying on a couch & talking. Here are 5 ways it can boost happiness - "When it comes to physical health, most of us don’t hesitate too long to get help for injuries such as a broken bone or a burn. But when it comes to emotional health, there often is a delay, possibly resulting in a bigger mental health crisis."
• The ridiculously beautiful country without a single train station - " Known for its stunning landscapes and natural beauty, Iceland is an extremely popular tourist destination, yet it has no train stations."
• The Country With the Best Education System in the World - "The United States ranks first on our list of the top 20 countries with the best education system in the world. 142 universities in the country rank among the top 1,000 universities in the QS World Ranking."
• 10 Life Lessons From Warren Buffett Every Person in Their 70s Should Hear - "For those entering their golden years, Warren Buffett’s wisdom holds a particular significance. Those in their 70s probably aren’t focusing on acquiring wealth or saving or retirement. However, Buffett’s philosophy is built on core principles of lifelong learning and a focus on living well - two things anyone in their 70s can get behind."
• How to Make an Archangel, the Gin & Cucumber Cocktail That’s Sinfully Delicious - "Try out this drink invented at the legendary bar Milk & Honey and invented by Michael McIlroy and Richard Boccatto, two of the more celebrated bartenders to have worked the bar."
• You Only Need One App: How to Organize Everything in OneNote - "OneNote can do more than you think! OneNote enables you to create to-do lists, record audio and video, and even translate text directly within the application."
• AeroPress Review: Is This the Best Travel Coffee Maker? - "After years of use, we still love the AeroPress for its quality brews, portability, and ease of use. It boasts almost 20,000 five-star Amazon reviews, and the pickiest of coffee aficionados rarely have a sour word to say about this savvy product. But is it worth the hype?"
• His 'Death by Chocolate' Cake Will Live Forever - "The chef Marcel Desaulniers, who died last month, had an over-the-top approach to dessert, a sweet counterpoint to the guilt-ridden chocolate culture of the time."
• The Secret to Eating Healthy All Week - "It starts with prepping on Sunday. Wash and cut any vegetables for the coming week. Stock up on cooked rice. Prepare a pot of beans. Have a library of sauces at hand."
• Is Your Driving Being Secretly Scored? - "The insurance industry, hungry for insights into how people drive, has turned to automakers and smartphone apps like Life360. You know you have a credit score. Did you know that you might also have a driver score? The score reflects the safety of your driving habits - how often you slam on the brakes, speed, look at your phone or drive late at night."
• WWDC keynote is here: Preview all the new features in iOS 18, macOS 15 & more! - "Our minute-by-minute keynote preview is here just in time."
• WWDC 2024: How to watch & what to expect - "WWDC 2024: Everything you need to know before the big show. What you need to know about Apple's WWDC 2024 including date and time, rumors, how to watch the keynote, and the expected product and software updates."
• Siri 2.0 is about to make the Apple Watch the ultimate AI wearable - here’s how - "Siri could be the Apple Watch's new secret sauce."
• Siri is reborn in iOS 18 - everything Apple's voice assistant will be able to do - "We have exclusively discovered how much iOS 18 and macOS 15 will upgrade Siri and improve everything you do. Here's what the new-and-improved Siri will be able to do."
• A tiny museum in England has a bigger YouTube following than MoMA & it’s making $2.8 million a year - "A tiny museum in rural England has one of the finest collections of tanks in the world. And thanks to American fans of military history, its videos have gotten more YouTube views than MoMA in New York or the Louvre in Paris. Here’s how they did it."
• 1984: How did the Isle of Jura help shape Orwell's masterpiece? - "George Orwell's Nineteen Eighty-Four was published 75 years ago on Saturday. It is the story of Winston Smith, an obedient citizen in an oppressive future state who slowly rebels against the system."
• Top 5 regrets people have when they die, says ex-hospice care worker - "Many don’t realize them ‘until the end.’"
• The 10 biggest life lessons most people learn too late, according to psychology - "Life has a funny way of teaching us lessons. Sometimes, though, they come a little too late. In fact, according to psychology, there are ten significant lessons that most of us tend to grasp when it’s already past the ideal learning curve."
• If you’ve lived through these 8 experiences, you’re more resilient than the average person - "Resilience isn’t just an innate trait, it’s something that’s built up through life’s trials and tribulations. We all have our unique battles, and each one of these experiences shapes us, molding us into stronger individuals. What experiences?"
• People who never fit in growing up usually display these 9 behaviors later in life - "Growing up, some people never really find their 'tribe'. They feel like outsiders, never quite fitting in with the rest. But that feeling of being an outsider can shape your behaviour in adult life. It can mould you into a person that is unique and different, in both good ways and bad."
• Google Maps vs. Apple Maps: Their Strengths & Weaknesses - "To sum up, here are the differences between Google Maps and Apple Maps: 1. Google Maps is better for reviews and business information. 2. Apple Maps is better at navigation in the US. 3. Google Maps is better at navigation in Europe. 4. Apple Maps is more aesthetically pleasing. 5. Google Maps has better traffic information."
• How to Pack for a Two-Week Trip With One Small Suitcase - "Expert advice from professional travelers on what to bring and where to put it."
• How to Minimize Your Exposure to Microplastics - "Furniture, clothing and food packaging can all shed tiny particles that can end up in our bodies. Some experts recommend keeping items made of plastic, such as a sofa upholstered in polypropylene fabric, out of direct sunlight, or choosing options that aren't made of plastic."
• How Much Caffeine Is In A Nespresso Pod? - "While some flavors make more delicious coffee than others, Nespresso states that most lines pack between 50-100 mg per cup. Since each pod usually makes one cup of coffee, this is also the amount of caffeine per pod. But, of course, there are always some delightful exceptions."
• Thirteen photos that will make you care about the ocean - "How do we get people to care about ocean conservation? Diving can help us explore the role of awe in protecting the planet's beating blue heart."
• Duke of Westminster: the London property baron born with ‘longest silver spoon’ - "Dynasty set to expand as Hugh Grosvenor, described as UK’s ‘most eligible bachelor’, announces engagement to Olivia Henson."
• For Lauren Hutton, Modeling Was Never the Dream - "At 80, the model and actress waves the flag for 'full-grown women.'"
• Ahead of the Olympics, Louis Vuitton CEO says sports embody ‘the DNA’ of the brand - "The luxury house’s distinctive Damier checkerboard trunks will house the Olympic torch as it travels across France, and Vuitton has created medal cases for the Olympic and Paralympic Games."
• Blood, earwax & tears are key indicators of your health - "Dry scalp? Blocked ears? Crusted eyes? Our bodies produce many different unusual, sometimes repellent secretions, and their function doesn’t always seem entirely clear. But each has their own important role, which often goes unappreciated."
• Italian town sells off homes with prices starting at just over $3 - "Italy’s cheap homes hot spot puts more up for sale. Dwindling Italian towns have been pulling out all the stops to lure new residents in recent years, with several one-euro home schemes launching across the country."
• Patek Philippe Is Not Happy Sylvester Stallone Flipped That $5.4 Million Grand Master Chime - "Sly selling his watch after a few years of ownership seems to have angered Thierry Stern and the collecting community. It’s well understood that if a brand like Rolex or Patek Philippe learns you’ve sold a hot watch you bought at retail, then you’re most likely not going to get an opportunity to buy from that brand again."
• How a Designer Makes a Bed, in Five Easy Steps - "You may think you know how to make your bed - but here’s how to make it a lot better."
• Why are billionaires like Mark Zuckerberg building bunkers & buying islands? - "Tycoons who buy underground bunkers may seem like they’re preparing for apocalypse - but they’re not, say these University of Queensland researchers."
• The 25 best pianists of all time - "The piano is one of the most popular musical instruments, but who plays it best? These are the 25 greatest to ever tickle the ivories..."
• The Fragrance Foundation Awards 2024 - "The 2024 Fragrance Foundation Awards crowned over a dozen winners, from men's colognes to a candle and home collection. All the Colognes and Scents That Won Big at the Fragrance Foundation Awards."
• Doctors issue urgent warning to anyone who drinks energy drinks - "Energy drinks contain caffeine ranging from 80mg to 300mg per serving, there is 100mg in a cup of coffee. The beverages often contain high levels of sugar and caffeine. Doctors have now warned that they may trigger a life-threatening condition requiring emergency treatment, doctors have warned."
• Is Your iPhone Charging Too Slowly? Try These 9 Tips - "If your iPhone is charging slower than you think it should, here's how you can speed things up."
• How to Clean a Watch: A Step-by-Step Care Guide for Steel Timepieces - "Everything you need to get your standby sports watch looking brand new."
• Best white t-shirts for men in 2024, tried & tested - "Best men's white T-shirt: Buck Mason Field-Spec Cotton Heavy Tee. Best budget men's white T-shirt: Uniqlo U Crew Neck T-shirt."
• A Beginner's Guide To Using Notion (& Why You Should Learn) - "If you have a hectic schedule and are living a parallel life with different needs to attend to, using a single application to organize your life is much better. This is where Notion comes into play. Notion is an all-in-one organization tool you can use to manage various sectors of your life."
• 10 tiny tools & gadgets I keep on my keychain & why - "What I do have with me most of the time is my keychain - and, as it turns out, it's the perfect way to EDC (Every Day Carry) useful bits and bobs. Here's a tour of what I carry on my keychain. Don't feel you need everything. Remember, the beauty of this approach is that you can customize your EDC to suit your needs."
• World’s best restaurant for 2024 revealed - "Any doubts that Spain remains the fine dining center of the world may just have evaporated with the revealing of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants for 2024 list."
• The World's 50 Best Restaurants 2024: the list revealed - "The highly anticipated list of The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2024, sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna, was revealed on Wednesday 5 June in a glitzy and glamourous live awards ceremony held at Wynn Las Vegas. The event brought together the best chefs, restaurateurs and hospitality industry icons on the planet. The 22nd edition of the annual ranking features restaurants from 26 territories, five continents and eight exciting new and re-entries. Discover the list and find out which venue was named No. 1, taking home the trophy and being crowned The World’s Best Restaurant 2024, sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna."
• Why is Nvidia boss the 'Taylor Swift of tech'? - "These days, wherever Jensen Huang goes, crowds chant his name and scramble for selfies and autographs. The 61-year-old electrical engineer is the chief executive of Nvidia, the chip powerhouse whose value just surged past $3tn, briefly overtaking Apple as the world's second-most valuable company."
• Why is Taylor Swift so big? 'She wants it more than anyone' - "Her 152-date stadium tour is on pace to make more than $2 billion by the time it wraps up in Canada this December. And that’s not including merchandise sales, or the $261 million her tour film made at the box office last year."
• How to spot a deepfake: the maker of a detection tool shares the key giveaways - "Siwei Lyu of the DeepFake-o-meter explains how to tell when photos, videos and audio aren’t real."
• Leica’s new app lets your iPhone mimic its cameras & classic lenses - "Camera color profiles are so hot right now, Leica is building a ‘freemium’ app around them."
• Google Is Using A.I. to Answer Your Health Questions. Should You Trust It? - "Experts say the new feature may offer dubious advice in response to personal health queries."
• How French winemakers outwitted the Nazis - "From hiding their best bottles to providing secret intel to Allied forces, French winemakers played an essential role in the French Resistance, which helped pave the way for D-Day."
• Turkey rejects claim Lord Elgin had permission to take Parthenon marbles - "Official says no sign of permit in Ottoman archives, in blow to British Museum, which defends legal right to statuary."
• Diane von Furstenberg Has No Regrets: ‘I Will Laugh When I Die’ - "From a palazzo in Venice, she talks about her struggling business, her marriage to Barry Diller, and the threesome that never happened."
• That Much-Despised Apple Ad Could Be More Disturbing Than It Looks - "Tech companies are running low on new experiences to offer us. A new ad for the iPad contains revealing hints of where they could go next."
• Surprising, Unsettling, Surreal: Roaming Through Saudi Arabia - "Will the kingdom’s $800 billion bet on tourism pay off? To witness the kingdom’s profound transformation and assess its ambitious tourism projects, a Times journalist spent a month on the road there. Here’s what he saw."
• Cannabis Tops Alcohol as Americans' Daily Drug of Choice - "A new study shows a growing number of people are regularly using cannabis, while frequent alcohol consumption has remained stable."
• Why Caffeine Can Make You Anxious - "And what to do about it. Caffeine is a stimulant that affects the sympathetic nervous system."
• ‘Natty or not?’: how steroids got big - "Once upon a time, it was only hardcore bodybuilders who pumped themselves up with testosterone. Today it is no longer niche. But how dangerous is it?"
• How the super rich ship their luxury cars around the world - "Forget rental cars, the 1% cart their vehicles around the world with them. This is how."
• Why TSA Rules Vary From Airport to Airport - "Shoes on or off? Laptop in a separate bin or left in your bag? ID and boarding pass, or just ID? It has nothing to do with whether your TSA agent is feeling lazy that day. The security protocol at any given airport comes down to how up-to-date the technology is."
• Baggage handler explains why suitcases with ribbons 'don't make it on flights' - "They said: 'Ribbons people tie onto their suitcases to help identify them can cause issues with the bag being scanned in the baggage hall. If the bag can't be scanned automatically it can end up in manual processing, which could mean your bag doesn't make it to the flight.'"
• Why This Carry-On Bag Continues To Dominate In Best Luggage Lists - "That's why I love Briggs & Riley's Baseline Essential Carry-On, and why so many other media outlets rate the bag as the best carry-on luggage for serious travel. Everything about the bag, from how it rolls and how it zips to the way it expands with a click when you need more space, makes it the perfect carry-on bag."
• How to pack like a pro: Travel experts share their tips for making the process less overwhelming - "1. Go heavy on the tops and light on the bottoms. 2. Invest in compression packing cubes. 3. Roll your clothes. 4. Use refillable and easy-to-clean travel bottles for toiletries. 5. Pack by outfit, then roll the outfit. 6. Bring extras of everything."
• 27 Products That'll Help You Travel Like A Pro On Your Next Trip - "Remember, it's not about the destination, it's about the journey - so make it as enjoyable as possible. You'll find carry-on rollers, weekender bags, packing cubes, and more practical goods for your next trip!"
• The Best 8 Packing Cubes of 2024 - "So long sitting on a suitcase to make it close!"
• How Healthy Are Avocados? - "They're rich in micronutrients. Here’s a highlight reel of their biggest nutritional benefits, plus delicious recipes to help you enjoy them. The vitamin E in avocados may support healthy skin, Dr. Klingbeil said. According to Dr. Kohlmeier, the lutein in avocados may help keep your vision sharp. And while bananas tend to get all the credit for potassium, avocados contain even more of the important mineral."
• New Report Underscores the Seriousness of Long Covid - "The National Academies said the condition could involve up to 200 symptoms, make it difficult for people to work and last for months or years. The report cited data from 2022 suggesting that nearly 18 million adults and nearly a million children in the United States have had long Covid at some point. At the time of that survey, about 8.9 million adults and 362,000 children had the condition."
• Sailing the Mediterranean on a 136-Passenger Windjammer - "The Alternative to Huge Cruises? 3 Masts, 28 Sails and Wind Power. We checked out the 136-passenger Sea Cloud Spirit on a Mediterranean cruise. In this era of gargantuan ships, its elegant clipper design, wooden decks and relatively small size stands out."
• How to get color text in the Apple Notes app - "Yep, that’s highlight the text and then Format > Font > Show Colors."
• The AeroPress Just Got Even Better at Making Coffee on the Road - "The World’s Best Portable Coffee Maker Just Got Even More Travel-Friendly. If coffee lovers don’t already own an AeroPress for brewing coffee on the road, the company’s latest release may finally sway them."
• The best MagSafe wallets you can buy right now - "MagSafe wallets are one of the most prolific types of accessory out there, so there’s a wide variety of wallets to choose from. I’ve spent some time testing these and have come up with a list of the best MagSafe wallets you can buy in 2024."
• Stop Deleting Your Photos: Check These 2 iOS Settings to Get More iPhone Storage - "Learn how you can make room for all the memories stored on your iPhone. For this to work, you need to have the iCloud Photos setting turned on."
• Night-vision lenses so thin & light that we can all see in the dark - "A pair of night-vision glasses would change the way we navigate the late hours, from driving to walking home in the dark."
• Most Successful Aircraft In History: A Look At The Cessna 172 - "The Cessna 172 is the most successful aircraft in history. The first was built in 1956 and by 2015, Cessna had built over 44,000 of the aircraft. It is still in production today as a light general aviation aircraft, even though production was halted between 1986 and 1996."
• Masterpieces of Historical English Watchmaking at Phillips - "Sonneries, tourbillons, split-seconds, and more. Phillips’ upcoming New York auction, taking place on June 8 & 9, includes an unusual number of exceptional, highly complicated English pocket watches."
• In-Depth: Patek Philippe Grand Complication with Double Split-Chronographs Ref. 767 - "An incredible, landmark pocket watch. Made in 1950 and sold in 1952, this one-of-a-kind pocket watch boasts a minute repeater, perpetual calendar, and double split-seconds chronograph."
• A blue painted shrine is the latest discovery in Pompeii ‘treasure chest’ - "Archaeologists have unearthed an intricately decorated blue room, interpreted as an ancient Roman shrine known as a sacrarium, during recent excavations in central Pompeii in Italy."
• New airplane business class seat design has huge 45-inch TV screen - "Even if you’ve opted for the priciest seats on the airplane, your inbuilt cabin screen is likely going to be poorer quality than the screen on your iPhone. MAYA, which stands for 'Most Advanced Yet Achievable,' is an ergonomic business class seat that comes equipped with an Astrova Curve 45-inch ultra-wide, ultra-high-definition OLED display."
• Mist in the cabin isn’t smoke. Here’s what’s really going on - "Fog in the airplane? Here’s why you shouldn’t worry."
• Alec & Hilaria Baldwin & their 7 children get a reality tv series - "'We’re inviting you into our home,' the actor, who is set to stand trial next month on an involuntary manslaughter charge, said as he announced a show about his family on TLC."
• 10 of the best TV shows to watch this June - "From new Star Wars show The Acolyte to the return of The Bear and House of the Dragon, and Jake Gyllenhaal in courtroom thriller Presumed Innocent."
• Are You Richer Than Your Peers? The Net Worth Needed To Be In The Top 10% Of Your Age - "While the ultrawealthy 1% often dominates financial headlines, the real question for most Americans is whether their net worth is comparable to that of their peers. Understanding what it takes to be in the top 10% at your age can provide valuable insight into your financial standing and reveal the milestones for success at different stages of life."
• How Much Do You Need To Join The Richest 1%? - It May Be Less Than You Realize - "According to the latest findings from the 18th edition of the Wealth Report by Douglas Elliman and Knight Frank, a person needs $5.8 million to be considered in the wealthiest 1% - a figure that, while substantial, is a far cry from the billionaire benchmark."
• Prince Albert of Monaco becomes first official driver of Tesla Cybertruck in Europe - "HSH Prince Albert was on hand to unveil the new Tesla Cybertruck in front of a large crowd of curious onlookers in the Place du Casino this Tuesday, June 4, before becoming the first to drive Elon Musk’s unorthodox electric truck around the Principality, and in the European continent as a whole."
• Pebbling: the viral romance trend that humans have stolen from penguins - "While the birds pick up stones and offer them as a gift to the object of their desire, people are displaying similar behaviour online."
• What is SPF & how much sunscreen do you really need? Experts answer - "Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the US and while sunscreen abounds in aisles, many aren’t applying it correctly."
• Sonos Ace review: quality noise-cancelling headphones worth the wait - "Company’s long-awaited headphones deliver top sound, long battery life, supreme comfort and killer home-cinema feature."
• Back To Basics: How To Read A Watch's Spec Sheet - "Understanding specifications and drawing the right conclusions from them."
• The 8 Best Vinyl Accessories, Picked By an Expert - "Peter Hahn, the co-owner of the Turntable Lab, the New York-based, go-to music shop for professional DJs, musicians and audiophiles, selects his favorite vinyl accessories."
• Learn to Make the Juiciest Steak With This Hot Restaurant Trick - "Basting your steaks with butter is the secret to perfectly cooked meat at home. When this simple steak gets a quick butter baste, its center cooks gently and evenly, and its outside develops a beautiful bronze crust sticky with ginger, garlic and herbs."
• The Nazis’ Atlantic wall that failed to prevent D-day - "For the 80th anniversary of the landings, AFP photojournalist Olivier Morin spent three weeks documenting the remnants of the supposedly impregnable defences designed to keep the allies at bay."
• The 25 Photos That Defined the Modern Age - "A group of experts met to discuss the images that have best captured - and changed - the world since 1955."
• The man in front of the tank: How journalists smuggled out the iconic Tiananmen Square photo - "The photo and footage of the so-called 'tank man' became the defining image of the Tiananmen Square crackdown whose 35th anniversary passed on Tuesday."
• Wear seatbelts for your whole flight, passengers to be told - "Carriers are toughening up safety instructions in the wake of a British man’s death after severe turbulence hit a Singapore Airlines flight."
• Don’t drink before your nap on the plane. It could hurt you now & later - "The 'fasten seat belt' sign is off, and the time for a nap on your flight is on. You grab your neck pillow, eye mask and a glass of wine to make sure you are well-rested on the other side. That tactic isn’t such a good idea, according to new research."
• Fake News Reports & Videos Seek to Undermine the Paris Olympics - "Russian propagandists are spoofing broadcasters and mimicking French and U.S. intelligence agencies to stoke fear about security at the Games."
• iOS 18: Six new features coming to the iPhone (other than AI) - "While new AI features will steal the show at WWDC next week, Apple has a number of other changes planned for iOS 18. This includes new home screen customization options, design changes, and more."
• ‘When can I have one?’: The world’s largest 3D printer is building cozy homes from wood - "Dozens of 3D-printed homes have been built across the world - to house a family in the US state of Virginia or members of an impoverished community in rural Mexico. The world’s largest 3D-printed neighborhood is currently under construction outside of Austin, Texas."
• Are Wedding Sneakers the Ultimate Power Flex? - "Rupert Murdoch’s fifth marriage, this time to Elena Zhukova, seemed a casual affair, though some disapproved of the suit-sneaker combination."
• WWDC 2024: What to Expect & How to Watch Apple's iOS 18 Event - "It'll likely be AI galore."
• Here’s how iOS 18 could change the way you use your iPhone - "It seems the long-overdue Siri overhaul will finally arrive at WWDC in just over a week from now, and the digital assistant will embrace AI trickery in all its forms."
• The Richest Country in the World by GDP - "China has surpassed the US as the richest country in the world by GDP, with a GDP of $35.29 trillion, as of 2024."
• A chef was invited to cook for Xi Jinping & Emmanuel Macron. Here’s what happened - "What was it like to cook for leaders Xi Jinping and Emmanuel Macron? One of the world’s top chefs shares his experience."
• What is a chronometer? | WATCH EDUCATION - "In a nutshell, a chronometer is a watch that has been certified by some regulating body to be of very high accuracy, usually fitting into a fixed set of specifications."
• 7 of the most expensive quartz watches that make a compelling case for quartz - "Created in the pursuit of accuracy, it didn’t take long for quartz watches to decimate the Swiss watch industry for their affordability, reliability, and variety. The demand for luxury quartz only goes up as new technologies are developed. If you’re looking to get in at the top, here are seven of the most expensive quartz watches."
• Missing Cryptoqueen’s murky links to Bulgarian underworld - "Ruja Ignatova, a Bulgarian woman wanted by the FBI after scamming investors out of $4.5bn through her fake cryptocurrency, before vanishing into thin air. Close ties to a suspected Bulgarian organised crime boss and allegations she was brutally murdered. Did Ms Ignatova enjoy the stolen billions or was she killed by the very people paid to protect her?"
• 25 things I’ve learned about getting fit - after almost 60 years of sloth - "For three quarters of my life, there was nothing to suggest I would ever get into shape. Then, bit by bit, I began to change. Here is how it happened."
• The Most Anticipated TV Shows of 2024 - "From the returns of The Bear, Squid Game, Industry and House of the Dragon to the premieres of new series like Dune: Prophecy and Star Wars: The Acolyte, it's about to be a big year on the small screen. Here's everything we know about the shows we can't wait for."
• Jerry Seinfeld’s nostalgia for the past has a dark side - "Jerry Seinfeld isn't alone in pining for 'dominant masculinity.'"
• The Age of Brooke Shields - "The model and actress has three new titles: Netflix rom-com star, union boss and C.E.O. of a beauty brand aimed at women over 40."
• Apple Watch Series 9 vs Ultra 2: what's the difference? - "We break down the differences between the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 to help you find the right smartwatch for your needs. The Ultra has always been for the more active user."
• The iPhone's new AI features may come with a gigantic catch - "Apple's new AI features for the iPhone are sounding mighty impressive. Unfortunately, they may come with an extremely big caveat. 'Apple is betting that the new AI features for the iPhone will encourage users to upgrade their devices. Many of the on-device AI capabilities will require an iPhone 15 Pro or later to work,' Bloomberg reports."
• iOS 18 release date: When to expect the betas & public launch - "We’re not far from the first official look at iOS 18 at WWDC 2024 on June 10. Whether you’d like to test out the new OS as soon as the dev beta is available or you’ll wait for the public beta or public launch, follow along for when to expect the official iOS 18 release date between September 16-23."
• The world’s most walkable cities revealed (& they aren’t in the US) - "Few things in life are as delightful as ambling around a new neighborhood in a new city, chancing upon cute stores, bars, eateries and public spaces. The bigger and richer the city, the less likely it is to be easily walkable. But there are plenty of exceptions."
• Some iconic travel destinations criminalize homosexuality - "LGBTQ travelers are split on whether they should visit."
• Woman who bought one of Italy’s ‘one euro houses’ reveals truth behind the scheme - "Meredith Tabbone ended up spending thousands, but would she do it again?"
• Prince William's role is changing - what does he really want to do with it? - "Fast forward to summer 2024 and there have been massive unexpected pressures. Within the quartet at the heart of the monarchy – King Charles, Queen Camilla, Prince William and Catherine – both the King and Princess of Wales have had cancer diagnoses. 'There can't be too many people whose wife and father have been diagnosed with cancer so close together.'"
• 10 MUST-HAVE NOTE-TAKING ACCESSORIES FOR CREATIVE PROFESSIONALS IN 2024 - "If you’re someone who works better with taking notes and jotting down your plans and ideas, then this collection of note-taking accessories and designs is exactly what you need!"
• 8 creative ways you can make an old MacBook useful - "Whether your MacBook is two decades old or two years old, these tips and tricks will make sure you still get some value out of it: 8. Playing CDs and DVDs. 7. Use it as a mesh Wi-Fi extender. 6. Create a home server. 5. Use it as a retro gaming console. 4. Install Windows or Linux. 3, Make hardware upgrades. 2. Install ChromeOS Flex. 1. Use it as a secondary screen."
• Strange Metal From Beyond Our Planet Found in Ancient Treasure Stash - "A dull bracelet and a rusted hollow hemisphere decorated with gold are forged, researchers have found, not out of metal from beneath the ground, but with iron from meteorites that fell from the sky."
• 42 Best Bars in America 2024 - "From glamorous hotel bars in New York to cocktail dens in San Francisco, here are the very best new spots to grab a seat and start a tab."
• War, AI & more war: the 2024 Bilderberg agenda is sure to set off alarm bells - "The secretive annual summit has tried to counter its arcane reputation, but its guest list still reads like a conspiracist’s who’s who of who rules the world." The 70th Bilderberg Meeting will take place from 30 May to 2 June 2024 in Madrid, Spain.
• Airbus Beluga: World’s strangest-looking plane gets its own airline - "The Beluga ST’s cargo hold is 50% higher and 10% wider than regular cargo aircraft it is generally used to transport voluminous items such as satellites, helicopters, aircraft engines, flight simulators, sailing boats and army vehicles."
• Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul match delayed due to Tyson’s medical issue - "'I want to thank my fans around the world for their support and understanding during this time. Unfortunately, due to my ulcer flareup, I have been advised by my doctor to lighten my training for a few weeks to rest and recover,' Tyson said in a statement."
• Mediterranean diet helps women live much longer, a large new study finds - "Women who closely followed a Mediterranean diet lived much longer than those who did not, according to a new study that followed more than 25,000 women for 25 years."
• 20 Novel Ways To Improve Your ChatGPT Prompts (According To Science) - "How do you know you’re using the tool as effectively as possible? You’re probably not. These unconventional pointers will ensure you’re not missing out on that top tier of results. 1. Forget politeness. You don't need to be polite when prompting ChatGPT. 2. Include the audience. 3. Use sequences. 4. Use positive commands. 5. Ask for further clarification. 6. Include examples. 7. Threaten punishment. 8. Ask it to be more human."
• Venice bans large tourist groups & loudspeakers - "New rules banning loudspeakers and limiting tour group sizes to 25 people have come into force in Venice. The canals of Venice's historic quarter make the city one of the most visited places in Europe. Venice introduced a €5 daily entry fee earlier this year, after initially banning cruise ships from docking in the quarter in 2021."
• 10 of the best gardens in Europe you’ve probably never heard of - "From Amsterdam to Athens, these beautiful unsung spaces exhibit a riot of colour, elegant design, history and tranquility."
• Turkey's new Mesopotamia Express takes visitors through the country's rich history - "Running 1,051km from Ankara to Diyarbak?r, it passes through stark, mountainous landscapes and some of the country's most important historical sites."
• The true stories behind iconic Diana photos, according to the man who took them - "Some of the most unforgettable photos of Princess Diana, such as her 'revenge dress' that broke royal protocol and her handshake with an AIDS patient that changed the way the world treated those with the illness, have gone on display in a new exhibition in London."
• Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, Apple TV+: 10 of the best new shows to watch in June - "Including Sweet Tooth, Becoming Karl Lagerfeld, Presumed Innocent and My Lady Jane."
• The 13 Best Legal Thrillers, Ranked - "Legal thrillers are a perfect platform for filmmakers to explore contentious and even controversial topics of their time. These 13 movies stand as the best legal thrillers that have ever graced the screen."
• ‘Bond’s gone woke!’ Charlie Higson on the row around his ‘metrosexual’ 007 - "When Charlie Higson published a new Bond novel last year, online critics accused him of turning the iconic spy into a ‘woke, libtard snowflake’ ... But he has always been a complicated character, argues the author."
• Where Zendaya & Kate Moss Go for a Dose of Ibiza Style - "The actress and the supermodel are among the A-listers who have gravitated to the glamorous aesthetic of the merchant-turned-designer Annie Doble."
• How to ‘Gray Rock’ Conversations With Difficult People - "Some say that becoming as dull as a rock is an effective way to disengage. It is especially effective in written communication, like texting, as a way of avoiding long, meandering messages."
• Scientists develop method of making healthier, more sustainable chocolate - "'We disrespected one of the holy rules of chocolate-making'. Approach replaces sugar with mashed pulp and husk of cocoa pod and uses less land and water."

June, 2024

• What happens now that Trump has been convicted - "Trump guilty on all 34 felony charges."
• Donald Trump: the day a former US president was convicted - in pictures - "Donald Trump has become the first former US president to be convicted of a crime after historic hush-money trial in New York."
• This city’s been named the best in the world for food. Here’s why - "These are the world’s 20 best cities for foodies, according to Time Out."
• This fine-dining restaurant is bringing artificial intelligence to the dinner table - "Multisensory dining is the latest trend to take over fine dining - and nowhere integrates cutting-edge technology quite like Krasota in Dubai. Its two-hour, eight-course 'Imaginary Futures' show takes diners through different speculative visions of the future."
• Apple's AI 'IntelliPhones' will dominate the market, analyst says - "Apple is expected to debut AI tools with iOS 18 during its Worldwide Developers Conference. Apple helped popularize smartphones. Now it’s going to push the world into the next era of telecommunications, this one characterized by a new type of device: AI-powered 'IntelliPhones,' said senior Bank of America analyst Wamsi Mohan."
• Apple Watch Ultra 2: should you buy? Reviews, features & more - "Apple Watch designed for explorers and adventurers. Second-generation version available now."
• Dinosaur hunter stumbles across million-dollar find - "The first stegosaurus skeleton to go under the hammer is set to fetch millions of dollars in New York. But the extraordinary discovery was made by chance, thousands of miles away out west during one man’s birthday stroll, writes Stephen Smith."
• Should You Exercise in the Morning or the Evening? - "When Is the Best Time to Work Out? It’s an age-old question. But a few recent studies have brought us closer to an answer. The case for morning exercise. The case for afternoon exercise."
• A 20-Minute Intense Workout That’s Easy on Your Joints - "HIIT routines are typically both high intensity and high impact. But you can still get the hard work while being easy on your body."
• Why Gardening Is So Good for You - "Digging holes can be a workout and mood booster all rolled into one."
• What Are the Best Mystery Movies of All Time? - "Get ready to ask a lot of questions and slowly peel back the answers. Death on the Nile (1978 or 2022): Poirot's Egyptian vacation is interrupted by a murder among a group of wealthy socialites. Clue (1985): A comedic mystery based on the popular board game, with multiple endings. Sleuth (1972 or 2007): A psychological battle of wits between an aging mystery writer and his wife's lover."
• What Are The Best Thriller Movies of All Time? - "Get ready to sit on the edge of your seat and wipe those sweaty palms."
• Should You Delay Your Morning Caffeine? - "Some influencers say that doing so can offer benefits. We looked at the evidence."
• How a Self-Published Book Broke ‘All the Rules’ & Became a Best Seller - "Keila Shaheen’s 'The Shadow Work Journal' shows how radically book sales and marketing have been changed by TikTok."
• How IWC Made the Most Glow-In-the-Dark Watch Ever for Lewis Hamilton - "The F1 driver’s Ceralume chronograph is the most luminous watch ever made. Here’s how it was created."
• World’s best airline for 2024 named by AirlineRatings.com - "Qatar Airways: The state-owned flag carrier of Qatar has been named the world's best airline for 2024 by Australia-based aviation safety and product rating agency AirlineRatings.com. When planning a trip, you can’t guarantee your flight won’t be delayed, your bag won’t go missing, or you won’t have a nightmare neighbor. But you can lighten your unease when things go wrong by choosing an airline brand you trust. Singapore Airlines won Best First Class, Qatar Airways picked up Best Business Class, Emirates scooped Best Premium Economy and Air New Zealand was awarded Best Economy Class."
• SAS Business Class To Copenhagen Reflects The Danish Spirit Of Hygge - "Denmark is the place to go this summer, especially now that SAS, with its excellent business class offerings, is launching new nonstop flights from the US."
• How safe is volcano tourism? - "As far as volcano tourism goes travellers tend to fall into two camps: those who stay clear and those who want to get closer. Volcanos around the world draw millions of visitors every year. Volcanologists say volcano tourism is safe with proper planning and respect."
• The ugly truth behind ChatGPT: AI is guzzling resources at planet-eating rates - "Big tech is playing its part in reaching net zero targets, but its vast new datacentres are run at huge cost to the environment."
• 5 best Netflix features you're not using but really should be - "These Netflix features can upgrade your streaming experience giving you access to secret categories, smart downloads and more."
• Happy 94th birthday Clint Eastwood: his best films - ranked! - "As he reaches the momentous milestone - and ahead of new movie Juror No 2 - we rate the screen icon’s best performances, from playing a poncho-clad anti-hero to having squinty showdowns in cemeteries."
• More Than 100 Louis Vuitton Trunks Are Heading to Auction - "One intense collector has amassed the largest private collection of Louis Vuitton trunks, now they're headed to auction. Christie's is auctioning off more than 100 Louis Vuitton trunks, with a high estimate of $2.3 million for the entire collection."
• Is Shrimp Good for You? It's Complicated - "Americans love their prawns. So how healthy are they - for us and for the planet? Shrimp is a good source of protein, on par with, say, a rib-eye steak. It's high in calcium and vitamin B12. It's low in saturated fat, which makes it heart-healthy. And while shrimp is high in cholesterol, experts no longer worry as much about dietary cholesterol's effect on health."
• Per capita consumption of fish & seafood - "Fish and seafood consumption per capita, 2021. Data is inclusive of all fish species and major seafood commodities, including crustaceans, cephalopods and other mollusc species."
• Built Using 126 Types of Marble, This Palace Has Cultural Artefacts From Around the World - "The Marble Palace in Kolkata is a 19th-century neoclassical mansion built by Raja Rajendra Mullick, featuring a blend of architectural styles and a rich collection of art and artefacts. It is renowned for using 126 types of marble."
• 12 of the best films to watch in June - "Inside Out 2 to Kevin Costner's new Western."
• John Lennon guitar sets record at auction - "A guitar used by John Lennon has become the most expensive Beatles instrument ever sold at auction. The Framus 12-string Hootenanny acoustic guitar was found in an attic after being presumed lost for more than 50 years, auctioneers said. It sold for $2.9m via a telephone bid at the Hard Rock Cafe in New York."
• Rail route of the month: from Genoa to Ventimiglia, Italy - a line of cinematic brilliance - "Along the coast through Liguria to the French border, our slow travel expert enjoys the mix of tunnels and dramatic coastal views."
• Every Type Of Bourbon, Explained - "Single Barrel & small batch - Straight - Blended - Wheated & high rye - High corn - Kentucky - Cask strength bourbon."
• 6 Things You Didn’t Know About Luxury Whisky Producer The Macallan - "1. The Macallan's ‘Curiously Small Stills’ Are Among The Smallest On Speyside. 2. The Macallan Has Collaborated With Cirque Du Soleil. 3. The Macallan Distillery Is Home To One Of The Largest Wildflower Roofs In Europe. 4. David Holmes Designed Over 250 Advertisements For The Macallan. 5. The Macallan Estate Is Home To Over 60,000 Trees And More Than 70 Species Of Wildlife. "6. The Macallan 1926 Adami Sold At Sotheby’s In London For Over $2.7 Million.
• Bette Nash, Longest-Serving Flight Attendant in the World, Dies at 88 - "Nash became a flight attendant in 1957 and never stopped working. She liked working the 6:30 a.m. flight from Washington to Boston, which regular commuters called the 'Nash Dash' in her honor."
• In photos: The best red carpet fashion at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival - "The Cannes Film Festival drew to a close on Saturday, and as always, the nearly two-week event was a fashion spectacle, with a slew of celebrated directors, actors and writers making their entrances on the hallowed Promenade de la Croisette."
• Cannes 2024 winners: why Anora’s arty strippers united everyone - "The festival’s Palme d’Or choice was wildly popular but the taboo-busting transgender gangster film Emilia Perez was the most audacious on show."
• Here’s how new AI tech could change the iPhone - "Imagine asking Apple’s Siri to show you an old photo taken from a child’s second birthday, or summarizing lengthy emails and writing drafts. Then consider Siri learning your schedule, preferences, even your personality, so it can better communicate with you throughout the day. Generative AI, artificial intelligence that can provide thoughtful and thorough responses to questions and prompts, could potentially breathe new life into Apple’s iPhone lineup."
• I've been walking 10000 steps a day for a year - "Here are five unexpected benefits I've experienced. What started as an experiment has turned into a long-term habit - here’s why."
• Dubai is building the world’s tallest residential clock tower - "The Aeternitas Tower, officially unveiled at a launch event last week, will be the world’s tallest residential clock tower at a staggering 450 meters (1,476 feet) tall - more than four times the height of London’s Big Ben. Dubai has just unveiled its latest record-breaking architectural wonder. The Franck Muller Aeternitas Tower in Dubai, in partnership with property developer London Gate, will become the world's tallest residential clock tower when it opens in 2027."
• How Caravaggio's violent 17th Century paintings led to Goodfellas & Mean Streets - "As the record crowds flocking to see his last painting show, Caravaggio's violent life and the cinematic intensity of his work have proved to be irresistible for centuries."
• A chicken recipe so good its origin is being fought in court - "A dish beloved around the world, butter chicken is now at the heart of a legal battle being waged by two of India's oldest restaurants."
• ‘Like drinking a music festival’: this is ultrasonic coffee - but does it taste any good? - "Australian scientists have developed a method of brewing coffee by blasting ground beans with sound waves - and it produces a powerful cup."
• The life sabbatical: is doing absolutely nothing the secret of happiness? - "Few of us have the money to take a long pause from work or caring responsibilities. But, as I found, even a day can make a difference."
• 'Notting Hill' turns 25: Julia Roberts, Hugh Grant then & now - "'Leave the World Behind' star Julia Roberts played Anna Scott in 'Notting Hill'."
• Richard Dreyfuss: 'I was a bad guy for a number of years' - "His life has been a rollercoaster ever since Jaws. Richard Dreyfuss talks about Hollywood hell-raising, cocaine burnout, his flirting heyday - and his problems with #MeToo"
• People who grew up with very little affection tend to develop these 10 traits later in life - "Growing up without much affection can leave a profound impact on people. It often shapes their personalities, and can create certain traits that stick with them all the way into adulthood."
• I tried Hugh Jackman’s 7-minute workout which 'uses every single muscle' & it’s one of the hardest things I’ve ever done - "You only need seven minutes and a rowing machine to give it a try."
• How much does a lifetime of watch servicing actually cost? - "If a watch movement doesn’t get serviced on a regular basis, it’s more likely to jam up, break, or stop working for any number of reasons."
• Be a better tourist! 28 ways to have a fantastic holiday - without infuriating the locals - "From badly behaved travellers to horrendous carbon emissions, summer holidays aren’t always an unmitigated good. Here is how to travel responsibly and still have a great time."
• What causes turbulence on flights & which routes around the world are most affected? - "After the fatal Singapore Airlines incident and injuries to passengers above Turkey, we explain what’s behind the phenomenon."
• Dubai’s ‘soul’ is about more than historic buildings - "More than malls and skyscrapers: Meet the tour guide showing a ‘different’ side to Dubai."
• The world's most livable city is a beautiful European destination - "Zurich is officially the best place in Europe to live and 97 percent of residents felt happy living there. The city's residents were happy with their jobs, public transport, healthcare and air quality."
• How to Buy Yourself a Longer Life - "The fitness chain Equinox recently announced a new peak of pampering, a higher altitude of indulgence. It’s a deluxe membership called Optimize by Equinox, it costs about $40,000 a year and it comes with a sleep coach."
• 24 of the world’s best nude beaches - "2024 is already shaping up to be another banner year for nudity around the world with a nude cruise and nude beach weddings on the horizon."
• How Veuve Clicquot, Louboutin & the Luxury World Fight to Protect Their Colors - "From Tiffany, to Veuve, to Louboutin, luxury brands have used signature colors be quickly identified. They have to fight to keep it their own."
• Faking it: counterfeit luxury fashion in south-east Asia - a photo essay - "As counterfeit fashion gets cool, the photographers Miguel Hahn and Jan-Christoph Hartung investigate the prevalence of luxury labels in south-east Asia, where high-end fashion blends with traditional and modern clothing."
• Will fishermen club be the next to end ban on women? - "The Garrick Club may now allow women to chat about politics and culture but just where can a female discuss flies, hooks and parrs?"
• FranÇois Hollande’s ‘love scooter’ fetches over €20,000 at auction - "Former French president’s bike, on which he was snapped riding to visit his lover in 2014, sells for double its listed price. It was the vehicle that sparked a French presidential scandal, the end of a secret love affair and legal action from a bodyguard nicknamed 'Croissant Man'."
• Home hero Charles Leclerc finally victorious in Monaco - "Monaco’s own Charles Leclerc was initially left speechless after finally achieving the Monaco Grand Prix victory of his dreams, having lead the pack from pole position to the chequered flag at his home circuit. Leclerc claimed pole in the 2021 and 2022 editions, only for victory to slip through his fingers thanks technical problems and pit stop issues, but he has now become the first Monegasque driver to win the GP in the Principality since Louis Chiron behind the wheel of a Bugatti in 1931."
• Monaco GP under pressure to change after Leclerc’s processional victory - "The Monaco Grand Prix is under pressure to find ways to adapt after a strikingly uneventful procession on the streets of Monte Carlo was won by Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc on Sunday. Starting top 10 on Sunday finished race in the same order. ‘It’s not racing as such,’ says Red Bull principal Christian Horner."
• 2024 Monaco Grand Prix in pictures - RaceFans.
• How the super rich party at the Monaco Grand Prix - "Partying happens everywhere during the Monaco Grand Prix - from the bars and clubs to private villas and superyachts moored in the principality's exclusive marina."
• Here’s why we eat popcorn at the movies - "Even before the house lights dim, the cinema experience is well under way, with one concession-stand food holding top billing. Its roasty, buttery aroma fills the lobby, a smell that’s both unmistakable and, often, core memory-inducing."
• How to experience the real Honolulu, according to a local lei maker - "Meleana Estes has been called the 'curator of modern aloha'. Here are her picks for Honolulu's best cultural experiences, from haunted lookouts to aloha shirt shopping."
• Sardinia: The Mediterranean isle where hikers stay for free - "An enticing new programme is seeking to transform a rugged corner of the Italian island into an outdoor lover's paradise."
• Thousands of Parisians take part in free picnic on the Champs-ÉlysÉes - "Event aims to reverse decline in local people visiting boulevard, which has become hub for wealthy tourists and designer stores."
• How to Make a Napoleon, the Most Refreshing Whiskey Cocktail You Can Drink This Summer - "It makes the moody spirit downright ebullient."
• FORMULA 1 GRAND PRIX DE MONACO - "2024 Monaco Grand Prix, which takes place over 78 laps, with almost 1,500 corners, of the 3.337-kilometre Circuit de Monaco in Monte Carlo on Sunday, May 26 at 15:00."
• Monaco - "Year-Round Millionaire Luxury Hotspot & Resort."
• How Donald Trump Still Lives in the 1980s - "The greed-is-good era was the last time his preferred public image was intact, and he’s been returning there in ways large and small as he sits through his criminal trial in Manhattan."
• ‘That’s Our Bond!’ - "What it took to turn a little-known, working-class actor named Sean Connery into the high-living, suave James Bond."
• This is the No. 1 country for tourism - "The world’s best countries for tourism, according to the World Economic Forum. The US has come in first place on the World Economic Forum's annual list for 2024."
• The secrets of rewiring your brain for happiness - "Even though 'the pursuit of Happiness' is built into the country’s founding, it seems that many Americans are just not that good at it."
• This quiet British island was once the site of Nazi atrocities. A new inquiry reveals its truths - "Alderney, a quiet British island in the English Channel known for its outstanding natural beauty, was once the site of the only Nazi camps on British soil – and a hell on Earth for its thousands of inmates."
• How Hadrian’s Wall is revealing a hidden side of Roman history - "While most of us think of Pompeii and Herculaneum if we’re thinking of everyday objects preserved from ancient Rome, this outpost in the wild north of the empire is home to some of the most extraordinary finds."
• ‘History is written at the dining table’: what 4,000 menus tell us about royals, politicians & society - "The bills of fare for dinners with kings, presidents and dictators show how tastes have changed over 150 years."
• Touring The F.P. Journe Watch Factory - "A Photo-Filled Visit To Les Boîtiers de Genève And Les Cadraniers - F.P. Journe’s Newly Re-Inaugurated Case And Dial Manufacture. But first, we return to Journe's home headquarters in old town Geneva to see how things have grown."
• 30 Years Ago, Steve Jobs Said 1 Habit Separates the Doers From the Dreamers - "Surprising advice from the fiercely independent, 'one-person focus group' Apple co-founder."
• The scenic garden that became China’s secretive seat of power - "It’s 'Zhongnanhai,' meaning 'middle and southern seas,' and the surrounding buildings that today’s Chinese leaders prefer you did not see. As the seat of power, Zhongnanhai is often thought of as China’s equivalent to the White House, or the Kremlin."
• The dog who inspired Dogecoin has died - "Kabosu, the dog that launched a thousand 'doge' memes, has died, her owner announced Friday. The Japanese shiba inu 'fell into a deep sleep' on Friday morning at 18 years of age."
• How Many Private Jets Does Bill Gates Own? - "Bill Gates owns four private jets as well as a Cessna 208 Seaplane and a Eurocopter EC 135 helicopter. His private jet collection is made up of two Gulfstream G650ER's and two Bombardier Challenger 350s."
• How film stars faded & pop stars took over - "While the public can't seem to get enough of seeing their favourite pop stars on stadium tours, their favourite actors aren't drawing them to cinemas in the same way."
• The Overseas Highway: The US' 'floating' highway - "The Overseas Highway connects 44 tropical islands from mainland Florida to Key West. The Overseas Highway started as a railroad, which was called 'the eighth wonder of the world' when it was finished in 1912."
• £161,000 for 20 days? Nick Candy bemoans One Hyde Park service charge - "Billionaire developer jokes he in fact spends no time at penthouse with record-breaking £175m asking price."
• ‘I was born to be a paparazzo’: Rino Barillari on royalty, the dolce vita era & his run-in with Depardieu - "The Italian photographer is no stranger to altercations, but when he set off for Harry’s Bar, it had been a while since his last celebrity contretemps."
• The Maldives faces existential threat from a climate crisis it did little to create. We need the world’s help now - "'Small islands like ours face an uncertain future. We can adapt – but climate finance that we badly need must be unlocked.' - Mohamed Muizzu, president of the Maldives."
• Is omega-3 oil good or bad for us & does it matter where it is from? - "Research shows fish oil may increase risk of people developing a heart condition or stroke."
• Ultra-processed foods could damage your brain, Harvard study says - "Scientists link consumption of such foods with memory problems, stroke and dementia and suggest production methods are to blame, not just calorie content."
• Improve Your Spotify Audio Quality by Changing These Settings - "1. Open Spotify. 2. Click on your profile picture to access Settings. 3. Under Audio Quality, click the drop-down menu next to Streaming quality. 4. Choose between Low, Normal, High or Automatic options, and paid subscribers also have the Very high option."
• The Best Mini Multi-Tools for Compact Carry, Tested & Reviewed - "When big, clunky multi-tools don’t make sense, reach for one of these compact versions from Leatherman, Gerber and more."
• Apple Sheds More Light on iOS 17.5 Bug That Resurfaced Deleted Photos - "Some iPhone users reported that Apple's iOS 17.5 update had introduced a bug that caused old photos that were deleted to reappear in the Photos app."
• Something Really Awesome Happens When You Use Banana Peel as an Ingredient - "A recent study has shown if banana peels are blanched, dried, and ground into a flour, they can be turned into baked goods that taste just as nice, if not better than wheat-based products."
• Oprah Winfrey Said Lifelong Success, Happiness & Fulfillment Come Down to Just 5 Words - "Oprah's insight on how to achieve long-term happiness is so simple, anyone can do it. Happiness in five words: 'Do something for someone else.'"
• The 9 things you should eat every day to stay healthy - "From avocados to apples, Peta Bee on the easy-to-find foods that will deliver big benefits."
• Damien Hirst backdated at least 1,000 paintings from his NFT project, investigation reveals - "At least 1,000 Damien Hirst artworks were painted years later than claimed. Potentially thousands of signed works from Currency series were mass-produced by artist’s team after 2016, sources say."
• McCartney roasts Springsteen at Ivor Awards - "'He's known as the American working man,' Sir Paul continued, 'but he admits he's never worked a day in his life.'
• Elon Musk says AI will take all our jobs - "Elon Musk says artificial intelligence will take all our jobs and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. While speaking remotely via webcam at VivaTech 2024 in Paris, Musk described a future where jobs would be 'optional.'"
• 5 ChatGPT Prompts To Outperform Your Competitors (by Thinking Bigger) - "Think big; build a big business. Think small; stay still. Watching others changes your thinking, ambition, and plan of action. It's not the way. Use these ChatGPT prompts to think bigger than whoever happens to be in your space, then ignore them completely."
• 5 Reasons to Use OpenAI's ChatGPT App for Mac - "After testing the app for a few days, we thought it was worth sharing some reasons why ChatGPT users may find that the Mac app is a useful addition to their AI-assisted workflow."
• How to Exercise for Lower Blood Pressure - "It’s not which workout you choose, but how you do it. Numerous studies have found that yoga, wall sits and cardiovascular exercise are particularly helpful for lowering blood pressure. Tai chi is a great way to do heart-healthy exercise without any equipment."
• How to Become a Vegetarian (or Simply Eat More Plants) - "Longtime vegetarians already know: To be a vegetarian is to eat really well. But if you’re looking to make the switch to vegetarianism or just a more plant-forward diet, you may have questions, even concerns."
• Mapped: The Income a Family Needs to Live Comfortably in Every U.S. State - "This visualization illustrates the income necessary for two working adults with two children to maintain a comfortable lifestyle in each state."
• 7 of the Best Watches at the Cannes Film Festival - "Adam Driver’s Piaget and Chris Hemsworth’s Rolex Headline the Best Watches at Cannes. Several films received standing ovations, and we think these watches deserve a round of applause too."
• How To Use Analytics To Buy Your Next Luxury Timepiece - "There is no single website that tracks the performance and availability of luxury timepieces. EveryWatch is a dynamic database that tracks over 500,000 watch references from more than 300 auction houses and 180 online marketplaces and dealers, including all the sellers on Chrono24."
• Phillips Is About To Offer Some World-Class Pocket Watches - Here's Why It Matters - "These watches are the rarest of the rare and will surely elicit some intense bidding. Let's dig into what makes them so special."
• A guide to watch case hallmarks - "Being able to read hallmarks is a valuable skill when traversing the world of watches. Whether you’re trying to value an antique pocket watch or stumbling across solid gold watches while thrifting, reading this list of the most common universal hallmarks will definitely help you out."
• Street Photography: Leica meets Fibonacci & the golden ratio - "Forget the rule of thirds. My new favourite compositional device is the golden ratio. But what does a formula described by a 13th century Italian mathematician have to do with taking pictures? And what on earth does a recursive spiral have to do with street photography? It’s all about the intersection of mathematics, history, and art. Read on to dive deeper into the mystery."
• BRITAIN’S LOST RAINFORESTS - "The Lost Rainforests of Britain campaign launches a new map revealing the extent of Britain’s surviving fragments of temperate rainforest."
• Line C of the Rome Metro, Piazza Venezia Station - "The station will create a real museum-like hub that will allow people to travel through history, with an underground connection at the first underground level of the station with the museums of Palazzo Venezia, the Vittoriano and Trajan's Forum."
• Bargain-hungry Americans are flocking to Temu & making its Chinese owner very rich - "PDD Holdings, the owner of Temu and Pinduoduo, is blowing past market expectations with a massive surge in profit and revenue as American and Chinese consumers swarm its bargain shopping apps for low-cost products. The Shanghai-based company reported Wednesday that net profit soared 246% to 28 billion yuan ($3.9 billion) in the first quarter of 2024, more than double the average analyst estimate of 12.62 billion yuan ($1.7 billion), according to LSEG data. The strong results boosted shares of PDD’s (PDD) Nasdaq-listed shares Wednesday, propelling its market value past $204 billion and making it China’s most valuable e-commerce company, ahead of Alibaba (BABA)."
• iOS 17.5.1 - Emergency Fix Issued To All iPhone Users - "Apple has issued iOS 17.5.1, an emergency fix for a concerning iPhone bug that was causing deleted photos to resurface."
• Brad Pitt scores new victory in fight over $350m vineyard as judge rules Angelina Jolie must hand over all NDAs - "The ruling comes after Jolie's ex-bodyguard testified about the legal threats the actress' personal assistant made to him and his team."
• Why are Cannes standing ovations so weirdly long? - "Along with the red carpet, sunburned film critics and warm rosé, awkwardly long standing ovations at premieres are one of the Cannes Film Festival's defining traditions."
• This Spanish warship sank more than 300 years ago. It’s believed to contain billions of dollars in treasure - "Colombia has launched the initial phase of an underwater expedition to explore a Spanish warship that sank in the Caribbean more than 300 years ago. Often called the 'holy grail of shipwrecks.' The rights to which are under heated dispute."
• There’s a reason why Rihanna’s a billionaire - "‘Servin’ face and jianbing’: Rihanna courts China’s lucrative beauty market with some clever culinary skills."
• What it’s really like to live in Antarctica - "A five-month-long slumber party. A college dorm. An introvert’s hell. Those are just some of the words residents of Antarctica use to describe life in the world’s coldest, most mysterious continent."
• What is it like to fly a plane during turbulence? - "For passengers on board the SQ321 flight from London to Singapore, it was a terrifying experience when the plane was hit by severe turbulence. Turbulence occurs when a plane hits air currents causing it to roll, pitch or drop suddenly. It is said to be becoming more common due to climate change."
• The Denmark secret: how it became the world’s most trusting country & why that matters - "There are real benefits to a society where people feel safe enough to leave their babies and bikes on the street. How have the Danes achieved this level of faith in their fellow citizens?"
• The world's revolt against 'bad tourists' - "As Ibiza and Mallorca say no to tourists coming to party, it's becoming increasingly clear that expectations on travellers in the world's most popular destinations are changing."
• Spain's worst seaside towns named - "A new ranking by Which? Travel readers has uncovered Spain's worst seaside towns and some British favourites are on the list."
• 4 Astonishing New Watches All Watch Guys Are Talking About Right Now - "Including a Jaeger-LeCoultre that’s built for adventure and a scorching hot pink racing watch."
• 10 Helpful Apple Watch Health Notifications Everyone Should Enable - "1. Call for help when you need it most. 2. A beep for high or low heart rate. 3. Get a reminder when your fitness drops or rises. 4. Get notified when you have an irregular heart rhythm. 5. Wash your hands better than you normally do. 6. Calibrate your personal breath rate. 7. Know when your environment is a bit too loud. 8. Share your activity with friends for additional motivation. 9. Measure your balance levels. 10. Get periodic health trends alerts."
• Just one bodyweight exercise strengthens abs, obliques & hips & boosts your metabolism - "Boost your cardiovascular fitness and strengthen your core with the lateral shoot through exercise the next time you need inspiration for functional workouts."
• Forget Anker - this is my new favorite 3-in-1 MagSafe charger - "Spend less while getting the same level of utility."
• The Apprentice review: Sebastian Stan is 'excellent' as a young Donald Trump - "With Sebastian Stan as the young Donald Trump and Jeremy Strong as his notoriously vicious lawyer mentor Roy Cohn, The Apprentice is part 'compellingly cynical buddy movie', part conventional biopic."
• Jon Stewart: ‘Trump is the real cancel culture - emphasis on cult’ - "Late-night hosts discuss Republicans’ victimization complex, Samuel Alito’s upside-down flag and Trump’s latest day in court."
• The Power of the Kennedy Look - "Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has a secret weapon up his rolled-up shirt sleeves. His look - skinny rep ties, button-downs, shrugged-on suits, shock of gray hair and weather-beaten tan - not only sets him apart. It also speaks directly to associations with the early 1960s, a golden age of promise that represents 'vigor, wit, charisma, change.'"
• McLaren reveal special Senna inspired livery for Monaco Grand Prix - "With the commemoration of the 30th anniversary of the death of Ayrton Senna fully underway in 2024, it was only right for McLaren to reveal a very special livery inspired by the helmet of the late Brazilian driver, also known as the ‘Master of Monaco’."
• GÉrard Depardieu Punches the ‘King of Paparazzi’ Outside Rome Cafe - "Mr. Depardieu, 75, was seen striking the 79-year-old photographer Rino Barillari on the Via Veneto."
• ‘My songs spread like herpes’: why did satirical genius Tom Lehrer swap worldwide fame for obscurity? - "In the 1950s and 60s, his songs stunned and delighted listeners with their irreverence, wit and nihilism. Then he gave it all up to teach mathematics. Lehrer is still alive at 96 - so I went in search of answers."
• This Man Did Not Invent Bitcoin - "For years, Craig Steven Wright, an Australian cryptocurrency enthusiast, claimed to be Satoshi Nakamoto, the mysterious creator of Bitcoin. Then the courts got involved."
• Bitcoin: A Peer-to-Peer Electronic Cash System - "In 2008, a person using the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto published a white paper explaining the basics of Bitcoin."
• WHO OWNS THE MOST BITCOIN 2024 - "Satoshi Nakamoto, the pseudonymous creator of Bitcoin, is presumed to be the largest holder of the currency, in possession of 1.1 million BTC (>$50 billion)."
• Sonos releases Ace headphones with cinema-sound party trick - "Bluetooth and wifi noise-cancelling cans aim to dethrone Apple and Bose with ultimate private film experience."
• Rare Patek Philippe Watches | Sotheby's Watch Auction - "Browse A Wide Array Of Iconic Watches, From Vintage To Contemporary."
• In-Depth: Patek Philippe Grand Complication with Double Split-Chronographs Ref. 767 - "An incredible, landmark pocket watch. One of the most fascinating timepieces in Phillips’ upcoming Hong Kong auction, 24 - 25 May, Hong Kong."
• A Saudi Prince who loves fishing is all set to take delivery of the world's largest sportfishing yacht - "It is so fast it can even outpace the US Navy's newest destroyer. Longer than an Olympic-sized swimming pool, the $70 million vessel is spread across six decks. How far can you go for something you like?"
• How Long Do Eggs Really Last? - "Believe it or not: It’s longer than you think. Expiration dates are often just recommendations. Put them in the fridge as soon as you get home."
• Swiss village overwhelmed by tourists wants to charge visitors for entry - "As Venice continues to trial its entry fee for day trippers, a popular village in the Swiss Alps is looking to follow its lead. The Swiss village of Lauterbrunnen is home to less than 800 residents, according to the local authority."
• Japan blocks iconic Mount Fuji view to deter tourists - "The snowy 3,776m-peak forms a stunning backdrop for those in search of their next favourite selfie or instagrammable moment. The once-busy vantage point - the pavement - is now behind a black mesh screen, about the same length as a cricket pitch."
• ‘Moai designs are getting lost’: extreme weather chips away at Easter Island statues - "Experts call for conservation action as the features on Rapa Nui’s famous monoliths are eroded by fire and rain."
• MONACO GRAND PRIX PREMIER RACE VIEWING EXPERIENCE - "Experience the Monaco Grand Prix of F1 2024 in style from our VIP lounges for unparalleled race viewing. Enjoy the thrill of the event from spectacular vantage points, promising an unforgettable and exclusive experience."
• The First 10 Things You Should Do With Your New Apple Watch - "Here's how to maximize your Apple Watch straight out of the box. 1. Mute it (or lower the volume). 2. Set up your watch to unlock your Mac. 3. Turn off notifications for apps you don't want. 4. Delete apps you don't want. 5. Set up cellular (if you have a cellular Apple Watch) 6. Set up sleep tracking. 7. Save some battery. 8. Learn the gestures. 9. Calibrate it. 10. Charge it."
• Milky Way photographer of the year 2024 - in pictures - "The Milky Way season ranges from February to October in the northern hemisphere and from January to November in the southern hemisphere."
• Scarlett Johansson lawyers up over ChatGPT voice that ‘shocked & angered’ her - "Actor Scarlett Johansson said in a statement shared with CNN on Monday that she was 'shocked, angered and in disbelief' that OpenAI CEO Sam Altman would use a synthetic voice released with an update to ChatGPT 'so eerily similar' to hers."
• Ben Affleck 'claims he went "temporarily insane" when he wed Jennifer Lopez & brands their two-year marriage a "fever dream"' - "Amid swirling split rumours, PageSix has claimed Affleck, 51, is ready to divorce, going as far to claim his decision to get married was due to 'temporary insanity'."
• How much does an ice-cream cost around the world? - "With inflation rampant in several countries around the world, is the price of cooling down on a hot day creeping up globally?"
• The radical practice of eating what you want - "‘Intuitive eating’ is an anti-diet that helps reconnect us to internal cues. But how does it work?"
• Ultra-processed US foods are ultra-bad for you. Here’s what to know - "A growing number of grocery-store foods, from fruit-flavored yogurts to packaged bread, are being tied to health concerns."
• What is BORG drinking & why is it a dangerous trend? An expert explains - "BORG, or 'blackout rage gallon,' refers to a concoction often prepared in a gallon-size plastic jug. It typically contains vodka or other distilled alcohol, water, a flavor enhancer and an electrolyte powder or drink. BORGs are often drunk at outside day parties, otherwise known as darties."
• Gina Rinehart tried to hide her portrait - it went global instead - "Vincent Namatjira’s painting in the NGA of Australia’s richest woman has been seen by millions around the world, appearing on CNN and the BBC and getting the attention of Stephen Colbert and Jimmy Fallon."
• The Streisand effect: Secrecy in the digital age - "When Barbra Streisand discovered in 2003 that an aerial photograph of her California beach house was among 12,000 on the internet as part of a collection by Kenneth Adelman and Pictopia, she did what any celebrity would: hit them with a $50m lawsuit. Outrage at her legal actions led to almost half a million people visiting the Pictopia site and viewing - and copying - the photos within a month."
• Ivan Boesky, Wall Street financier who coined ‘greed is good’, dies aged 87 - "Known as ‘Ivan The Terrible’, the risk arbitrage maven fell from glory in one of the biggest insider trading scandals of the 1980s."
• The Cities With The Most Billionaires 2024 - "Just ten cities are home to nearly a quarter of the world's billionaires. Here's where they choose to live."
• Rich Chinese millennials are creating new status symbols. Here are 11 ways they are redefining luxury - "Chinese millennials are redefining luxury status symbols by refocusing on quiet luxury and personal style. Solo travel, pre-loved luxury fashion, and fine dining are also gaining popularity."
• The incredible 450-mile train line where you get to see jungles & beaches - "The Eastern & Oriental Express is an incredible train line through Malaysia. The Eastern & Oriental Express, a Belmond train, travels around Malaysia and has been named one of the best train journeys in the world."
• How LVMH exhumed luxury rail with the Eastern & Oriental Express - "The venerable company has returned with a renewed sense of purpose after a refresh and a rethink, but the focus is still on timeless elegance and luxuriously slow travel."
• The 30 seconds that shook Fury & took Usyk to the summit of boxing - "Ukrainian makes convincing case as greatest of all time after rocking the Gypsy King to unify the heavyweight division."
• Mike Tyson Vs. Jake Paul Ringside Tickets Top $60,000 - With $2 Million VIP Package - "The cheapest tickets available on the secondary market through Gametime are listed at $156 for upper-level seating, going up to $9,038."
• Google declares the end of the World Wide Web - "No company is quite so inseparable from the World Wide Web as Google, which made searching the internet an eponymous verb."
• Can You Build Muscle By Walking? - "Walking won't build large muscles. But it can help you increase lean muscle mass and functional strength. If you want to challenge your muscles, you have to walk at a high enough intensity. Try increasing your speed or adding resistance exercises to boost your walking workout intensity and strengthen your muscles."
• What Happened to Ashley Madison? The True Story of the Dating Site's Infamous 2015 Hack & How It Bounced Back - "In 2015, the identities of the 37 million users of infidelity website Ashley Madison were hacked and revealed online."
• The 10 Most Collectible Military Watches of All Time - "Once tools, these timepieces are now scarce, highly sought after, and expensive to collect."
• The Godfather Part II Ending Explained: What The Movie's Final Shot Means - "The final shot of The Godfather: Part II underscores the tragic cost of Michael's rise to power and compares him directly to his father."
• Sports Illustrated celebrates 60 years of iconic swimsuit models - "Dozens of past Sports Illustrated cover models have returned for the 60th anniversary of the magazine's iconic 'Swimsuit Edition,' which released on newsstands on May 17."
• Fury v Usyk: How world title fight unfolded & was scored - "Round-by-round scores and summary from the world heavyweight title fight as Oleksandr Usyk defeated Tyson Fury on a split decision."
• Now for the rematch! Tyson Fury is set to bank another £100m when he fights Usyk again - "Fury, from Morecambe in Lancashire, claimed afterwards that the judges favoured Usyk due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine."
• Ranked: Countries Where Youth are the Most Unhappy, Relative to Older Generations - "Measuring happiness is tricky business, more so when taking into account how different regions, cultures, and faiths define it. Nevertheless, the World Happiness Report attempts to distill being happy into a single score out of 10, and then ranks countries by their average score."
• Where the stars really go on holiday - from Kate Moss to Joan Collins - "Going away? We asked some of our favourite tastemakers for their top travel tips."
• Five celeb-worthy ways to experience Cannes - "A weekend in Cannes with an attaché to the stars. Gilles Bastoni is Cannes' celebrity concierge. Here is his tailor-made list for a sublime Cannes getaway - from luxurious star-studded venues to escapes at sea."
• Prince William is set to be an usher at the Duke of Westminster's 'society wedding of the year' - "King Charles won't attend amid rumours of tension over a past Queen Camilla 'snub'."
• this beach in Greece has the clearest waters in the world - "According to the data, Prassa Beach in Kimolos, Greece, has the clearest water in the world. 'Stretching on for [8,497 miles], the Greek coastline is the longest in the Mediterranean Basin, a sea famous for its crystal-clear waters and rich blue hue,' the team shared in the findings."
• 24 of the world’s best sandwiches - "While one person’s go-to hamburger snack might be another’s katsu sando or chivito, there’s hardly a country on the planet that doesn’t turn to some type of bread with something stuffed inside it to cure a craving. Traveling the world’s sandwiches is, in a way, like traveling the world. Here are 24 of the world’s best sandwiches."
• Learn to Make the Best Broccoli of Your Life (Really!) - "In the latest installment of her YouTube series, the cookbook author and chef Sohla El-Waylly will teach you how to maximize this popular, but sometimes divisive vegetable."
• Five things you probably didn’t know about the biggest art heist in history - "Most art galleries and museums are famous for the art they contain. London’s National Gallery has Van Gogh’s 'Sunflowers'; 'The Starry Night' meanwhile, is held at The Museum of Modern Art in New York, in good company alongside Salvador Dalì’s melting clocks, Andy Warhol’s soup cans and Frida Kahlo’s self-portrait. The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston, however, is now more famous for the artwork that is not there, or at least, that is no longer there."
• Inside Reese Witherspoon’s Literary Empire - "When her career hit a wall, the Oscar-winning actor built a ladder made of books - for herself, and for others."
• Inside the world's LARGEST whisky collection which took 35 years to build - "Claive Vidiz, a Brazilian whisky enthusiast, has bought 3,384 bottles of Scotch whisky over the last 35 years."
• This slim shoulder bag is my new best friend in travel - "There’s nothing like a good bag that can hold everything you need and still remain small enough to tuck under your coat, should the need arise. I’m always on the hunt for a great bag, and since I travel a lot for work, I have a specific set of features that I’m looking for. The EcoSmile Messenger Bag checks every box."
• The Cannes red carpet so far: from Naomi Campbell in 90s Chanel to Anya Taylor-Joy in Dior - in pictures - "Jane Fonda in an animal print coat, Lily Gladstone in Gucci and Chris Hemsworth in an old Hollywood jacket - there was a lot to enjoy on the Croisette this week."
• 15 of the world’s most spectacular airport landings - "Here we’ve put together some of the most beautiful approaches in major destinations - along with which side of the aircraft you should sit to best appreciate them."
• Roy Cohn: The mysterious US lawyer who helped Donald Trump rise to power - "As new film The Apprentice premieres at the Cannes Film Festival, a look at the cultural afterlife of political hitman Roy Cohn, who was Donald Trump's mentor in his early career - teaching him to 'attack, counterattack and never apologise'."
• How I made my first million - by those who have done it - "Twelve of the Rich List’s 40 under 40 offer tips and tricks to start your own business."
• Seven new Bridgerton filming locations you can visit - "Bridgerton is back, and from London palaces to Bath ballrooms, here are some of the best places to experience Regency-era England."
• Protesters, pop stars & pioneers: 38 images that changed the way we see women (for better & for worse) - "Shocking, arresting and extraordinary photographs that shifted how women are seen in the world."
• Road to Riyadh: Fury & Usyk’s long journey to date with destiny - "The two fighters have experienced epic highs and crushing lows in the lead-up to Saturday’s undisputed decider."
• The FBI investigated David Copperfield for two years. The claim that he was ‘exonerated’ was widely embraced. Was he? - "A woman alleged that the magician sexually assaulted her on his private island in 2007. His lawyers said he was falsely accused."
• Apple TV+ shows & movies: Everything to watch on Apple TV Plus - "Apple TV+ is a streaming service offering original TV shows and movies. Here's everything you can watch, and upcoming release dates."
• The 25 Essential Pasta Dishes to Eat in Italy - "Two chefs, one cookbook author, a culinary historian and a food writer made a list of the country’s most delicious meals, from carbonara in Rome to ravioli in Campania."
• A. Lange & SÖhne Datograph Perpetual Tourbillon Lumen - "This lusciously luminous piece ranks as one of the most complicated watches Lange has ever produced, both technically and aesthetically."
• The Vacheron Constantin Les Cabinotiers 'Berkley Grand Complication,' With 63 Complications, Is The New Most Complicated Watch In The World - "Nine years after setting the record with the ref. 57260, Vacheron has done it again."
• The ultra-exclusive $100 billion club has swelled to an unprecedented 15 members - "The combined net worth for these people is up 13% this year to $2.2 trillion, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, beating the pace of inflation and the broader stock market. Between them, they hold nearly a quarter of the wealth of the world’s 500 richest people."
• The Sunday Times Rich List 2024 revealed - "It features the King, the prime minister, inventors and industrialists, as well as some exciting new names, but what does the record fall in the number of billionaires mean for Britain?"
• Sir Paul McCartney first UK billionaire musician - "The former Beatle, 81, boosted his wealth by £50m in the past year with touring, the lucrative value of his back catalogue and Beyoncé's cover of the classic track he wrote in 1968, Blackbird, helping him achieve the status."
• Australia’s richest woman seeks removal of her portrait from exhibition - "Art is subjective. And while many artists long to share their work with the world, there’s no guarantee that the audience will understand it, or even like it."
• Can shame make you a better person? - "Confucius and other ancient Chinese philosophers believed the feeling isn’t all bad - and can lead you toward your best self."
• The 54 Celebrities, Executives & Allies on Trump’s ‘Close Contacts’ List - "The list included the media tycoon Rupert Murdoch and other Fox News figures, along with sports stars like Tom Brady and Serena Williams."
• The Mona Lisa was set in this surprising Italian town, geologist claims - "Ann Pizzorusso, who is both a geologist and an art historian specializing in Leonardo and the Renaissance era, believes Lake Como, the glacial lake dating back around 10,000 years, is in the background of the Mona Lisa."
• The Nerve of Madonna to Pull It Off, Again - "Eighteen years ago, Madonna observed: 'Once you pass 35, your age becomes part of the first sentence of anything written. It’s a form of limiting your options and almost putting you in your place. For women, naturally.' She was 47 when she said that."
• Scientists may have solved mystery behind Egypt's pyramids - "Scientists believe they may have solved the mystery of how 31 pyramids, including the world-famous Giza complex, were built in Egypt more than 4,000 years ago. A research team from the University of North Carolina Wilmington has discovered that the pyramids are likely to have been built along a long-lost, ancient branch of the River Nile - which is now hidden under desert and farmland."
• Patek Philippe Dominates Geneva's Spring Watch Auctions - "With $125 Million raised in total, the results of this season's watch auctions in Switzerland bode well for the high-end watch market. Philips, Christie's, Sotheby's and Antiquorum saw robust results as the spring auction season kicked off in Switzerland this week, calming concerns over a sagging market. Patek Philippe was at the top of all the results."
• Patek Philippe Ref. 2499: A Guide To This Iconic Vintage Investment - "The world of vintage Patek Philippe is full of iconic, rare and high-performing watches, to say the least. Reference 2499, a perpetual calendar chronograph that stands out as a collector favorite, played an important role in shaping the history for the brand and its grand complications."
• Is This Jeweler the Insider's Ultimate Insider? - "Walid Akkad lives in a French château and has a tiny showroom in Paris and only a handful of photos on Instagram. Of all the jewelers in Paris, Walid Akkad may be the most successful one you’ve never heard of. His clients include entrepreneurs, Hollywood stars and socialites."
• Here's how many years Apple users are keeping their iPads - "Like the iPhone upgrade cycle, the length of time customers have been keeping their iPads has been increasing in recent years."
• C.D.C. Warns of a Resurgence of Mpox - "A deadlier version of the infectious disease is ravaging the Democratic Republic of Congo, while the type that caused a 2022 outbreak among gay and bisexual men is regaining strength."
• Forbes 2024 World's Highest-Paid Athletes List - "Why No Women Are Among The Highest-Paid Athletes."
• Warren Buffett finally reveals the mysterious company he’s invested billions of dollars in - "Berkshire revealed it acquired nearly 26 million shares of Chubb in a Wednesday Securities and Exchange Commission filing of the company’s first quarter investments. That translates to a value of approximately $6.7 billion."
• Donald Trump: From Queens to the White House - "A quick guide to the life of Donald Trump."
• David Copperfield: Magician accused of sexual misconduct - "Magician David Copperfield has been accused of sexual misconduct and inappropriate behaviour by 16 women. Some of the alleged offences took place when the women were under 18. The allegations date from the late 1980s to 2014."
• King Charles III's new official portrait: What the butterfly means - "As a new official portrait of King Charles III is unveiled, a guide to the messages in recent royal iconography."
• Jennifer Lopez & Ben Affleck may be headed for a split as the couple are hit by divorce rumours after not being seen together for seven weeks - "The celebrity couple known as 'Bennifer,' were last seen together seven weeks prior, at the end of March, while grabbing lunch in New York City. In April 2021, JLo, 54, and Ben, 51, were spotted together for the first time in over a decade, sparking relationship rumors. They eventually went public with their rekindled romance and wed in July 2022."
• Why 'wild' sci-fi epic Megalopolis could be Francis Ford Coppola's $120m mistake - "Forty years in the making - or not making - will Francis Ford Coppola's eye-wateringly expensive sci-fi epic Megalopolis be a towering triumph or a catastrophic folly?"
• The Girl With the Needle review - horrific drama based on Denmark’s 1921 baby-killer case - "Loosely based on fact, Magnus van Horn’s fictionalised true crime nightmare leaves you with a shiver of pure fear."
• Herd of 170 bison could help store CO2 equivalent of almost 2m cars, researchers say - "Free-roaming animals reintroduced in Romania’s ?arcu mountains are stimulating plant growth and securing carbon stored in the soil while grazing."
• These diets may reduce cancer, heart disease & early death, according to a 20-year review - "Certain vegetarian diets significantly reduce risk of cancer, heart disease and death, study says. Eating a vegan, vegetarian or lacto-ovo vegetarian diet significantly reduces the overall risk of developing cancer, heart disease and dying early from cardiovascular disease, according to a new 'umbrella' analysis of more than 20 years of research. An umbrella review looks at existing metanalyses of large numbers of studies, providing a high-level view of existing research on a topic."
• Cancun: The Mexican fishing village that became one of the world’s hottest party destinations - "21 million visitors headed here in 2023, beating tourism ministry projections and reminding everyone that it is Mexico’s ultimate must-see."
• Scientists solve mystery of ancient 'tree of life' - "Scientists have solved the mystery of the origins of ancient baobab trees. According to DNA studies, the iconic trees first arose in Madagascar 21 million years ago."
• Bidzina Ivanishvili: Georgia’s billionaire ‘puppet master’ betting the house on Moscow - "His glass castle, a home perched atop a hill in the Sololaki district of Tbilisi that his critics say resembles a Bond villain’s lair."
• Yes, You Love Pasta. But Do You Know the Difference Between Anolini & Pansoti? - "From the size of a bottle cap to 'large like a fist,' seven classic stuffed-pasta shapes that go back generations - and how to make them."
• With iOS 17.5, iPhones can now notify you when unauthorized trackers are following you - "The goal of this new Apple update is to eliminate unwanted trackers. A new industrial specification devised by Apple and Google to address security risks of Bluetooth tracking devices is now available."
• 77th Cannes Film Festival 2024 - from May 14 to 25. Official site. Annual film festival held in Cannes, France since 1946, which previews new films of all genres, including documentaries, from around the world. Founded in 1946, it is one of the most prestigious and publicised film festivals in the world. The invitation-only festival is held annually (usually in May) at the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès (1 Boulevard de la Croisette, 06400 Cannes, France).
• Drama on & off screen at Cannes Film Festival - "There are rumours that a string of actors and film-makers could be publicly accused of sexual abuse; there's a threat of strike by festival workers; and an Iranian director is expected to attend days after fleeing his home country after receiving a prison sentence."
• Cannes 2024 Fashion: The Best Red Carpet Looks - "The stars are out on the Croisette for the 77th Cannes Film Festival, sporting their best looks on the red carpet."
• Google shows off astonishing vision for how AI will work with Gmail, Photos & more - "A day after OpenAI impressed with a startlingly improved ChatGPT AI model, Google showed off an equally stunning vision for how AI will improve the products that billions of people use every day."
• iPad Pro M4 review: ludicrously good hardware that’s total overkill for most - "Apple sets new standard in screen and power but Pro model verges away from consumer tablet needs."
• What’s The Real Ideal Distance To Walk Every Day To Get Back In Shape? - "For those getting started on their fitness journey, aiming for about 10,000 steps per day is a great baseline. This translates to around 7 to 8 kilometers, helping you burn approximately 300 to 400 calories daily."
• The stunning secret Italian lakes that most tourists don’t know about - "Italy has dozens of secret smaller lakes that boast superb scenery, unknown to mass tourism, where locals get together on day trips and enjoy picnics. These are some of the best."
• Tawaraya: Sleep like a shōgun-era samurai at Kyoto's finest ryokan - "Run by the same family for the past 12 generations, this more-than-300-year-old inn is considered one of the finest in all of Japan."
• Loneliness Can Change the Brain - "Feeling chronically disconnected from others can affect the brain’s structure and function, and it raises the risk for neurodegenerative diseases."
• An Issue All About Pasta & What It Means to Eat It - "The dish, in all its many forms, has become synonymous with Italy's culture."
• These Butlers Are Neither Carson Nor Hudson - "The rise of 'executive butlers' - a breed whose job combines silver polishing with being a concierge and a maitre d’ - reflects the changing nature of the very rich."
• Warren Buffett "Guaranteed" He'd Get 50% Annual Returns With Only $1 Million As Berkshire's Cash Hoard Soars To Over $189 Billion - "As far back as 1999, Mr. Buffett famously said he could achieve 50% annual returns if he had only $1 million to manage, stating, 'The highest rates of return I’ve ever achieved were in the 1950s. I killed the Dow. You ought to see the numbers. But I was investing peanuts then. It’s a huge structural advantage not to have a lot of money. I think I could make you 50% a year on $1 million. No, I know I could. I guarantee that.'"
• iOS 17.5: Your iPhone Just Got All These Features - "Apple released the latest update Monday, and you can download it now."
• Apple Music kicks off 10-day ‘100 Best Albums’ of all time countdown - "Apple Music will reveal 10 albums each day for the next 10 days. Here are the ranks for spots 100-91: 100. Body Talk, Robyn; 99. Hotel ..."
• Go Passwordless: Setup a Passkey on Your Google Account - "It's time you switched to a passkey to get into your Google account. You'll need to follow any prompts and use whatever biometric your device asks to confirm your identity. Once you do, your passkey will be created for that device. You can use your face, fingerprint, screen lock or hardware security key to log in to Google once your passkey is set up."
• 6 Reasons the Rich Don’t Buy Luxury Cars - "Here are six reasons the rich do not buy luxury cars. Some of them might surprise you. Depreciating Asset. The rich know, as most of us do, that the second you drive a car off the lot, the value of the vehicle drops drastically."
• The Only Sean Connery Movie That Has A Perfect Rotten Tomatoes Score - "According to the site, Connery's best movie is actually 'Darby O'Gill and the Little People'."
• 13 Film Noir Movies That Are Perfect From Start to Finish - "These indispensable films from classic Hollywood to New Hollywood to more modern times remind dedicated film fans and even noir novices why this genre is so uniquely intoxicating."
• What To Eat & See On Your Next Visit To Florence, Italy - "From Michelangelo’s David and the Duomo, one of the largest churches in the world with its famous Brunelleschi-designed dome, to fashion museums from Gucci and Ferragamo and fabulous Tuscan food (including gelato), Florence offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery."
• When Did Everything Become a 'Journey'? - "Changing our hair, getting divorced, taking spa vacations - they’re not just things we do; they’re 'journeys.' The quest for better health is the greatest journey of all."
• Are Plants Intelligent? If So, What Does That Mean for Your Salad? - "A new book, 'The Light Eaters,' looks at how plants sense the world and the agency they have in their own lives."
• The Most Comfortable Sneakers For Men, Based On A Podiatrist’s Advice - "Whether you’re searching for a comfortable sneaker for running, a dressy shoe to commute in to the office, or an especially stylish one to wear out at night, there’s a sneaker on this list for you."
• 80-in-1 titanium multitool stack splits into magnetic utility cards - "With a 'more is more' approach to its latest offering on Kickstarter, London-based Gadget On has packed everything from a sundial clock to a SIM card ejector into its new TitanSpin multitool. And, oh yeah, the whole thing is also a fidget spinner."
• Aer’s First Carry-On Suitcase Has an Ingenious Feature That I Never Want to Travel Without Now - "This 48-liter hardshell has a feature that’s so simple and effective, it makes me wonder why more travel bags don’t have it."
• Internet use is associated with greater wellbeing, global study finds - "Researcher cautions against ‘one-size-fits-all solutions’ amid growing debate over impact, particularly on young people."
• A solution for working parents who want to travel - "The Travelling Village is an ambitious new experiment uniting 19 digital nomad families for a four-month co-living and co-travelling journey across the world."
• The 21 Best Thrillers Streaming on Netflix - "For those nights in when you simply don't want to relax. From high-intensity heist movies to eerie post-apocalyptic pictures, so you're sure to find something here that’ll get your heart pumping."
• Apple reportedly intends to change how we use Siri very soon - "Welcome to the AI chatbot arms race. Amid rumors that OpenAI has its own voice assistant in the works, Apple is reportedly planning a significant update for Siri."
• Oura Ring Just Unveiled 2 Cutting-Edge Health Features To Beat Samsung Galaxy Ring - "Finnish company Ōura's light, unobtrusive smart ring with numerous health metrics on board, from sleep tracking to blood oxygen monitoring."
• Rise of drug-resistant superbugs could make Covid pandemic look ‘minor’, expert warns - "Common infections will kill millions if drug resistance through misuse of antibiotics is not curbed, says England’s ex-chief medical officer."
• 48 hours in Cologne, Germany’s most laid-back city - "Cologne’s unofficial constitution, the Kölsche Grundgesetz, offers aphorisms such as It is what it is and Come on, have a drink!"
• Roger Corman: a career in pictures - "Best known for his low-budget Edgar Allan Poe adaptations, Corman also produced over 400 films and helped kickstart the careers of Jack Nicholson, Nicholas Roeg, Peter Fonda, James Cameron and Martin Scorsese."
• Bafta TV awards 2024: on the red carpet with Brian Cox & Claudia Winkleman - in pictures - "It’s the biggest night in TV, and all the stars from the best shows of the year - from Succession to The Crown - are ready for action. Join them on the red carpet."
• In pictures: Northern Lights dazzle around the world - "Large parts of the world got a rare glimpse of the Northern Lights on Friday night, after one of the strongest geomagnetic storms to hit Earth for years."
• Europe’s best long-distance hiking trails - "The slow approach to travel has never been more important. From overtourism to taking multiple flights, rushing from A to B isn’t just stressful, it can be environmentally damaging. Which is why, sometimes travel needs to be stripped back to basics - a pair of boots, a backpack and a map."
• ‘Explosive’ secret list of abusers set to upstage women’s big week at Cannes film festival - "Crisis management team reported to be in place as Meryl Streep heads roster of female stars and directors collecting accolades."
• 'Abba was somewhat of a dirty word': How the pop band's 1974 Eurovision win divided Sweden - "Fifty years ago, Abba was triumphant at Eurovision - but a new documentary shows just how bittersweet that victory was."
• Risk & reward: life as a stunt double - "From Bond to Barbie, behind every Hollywood film or television drama is an unsung hero doing the scary stuff. Meet the doughty men and women willing to take big risks to be part of the magic."
• ‘I ain’t no fool’: Lennox Lewis on Fury-Usyk & offers of returns to boxing - "The last undisputed world heavyweight champion recalls his battles for the title - and predicts who will win the unifier."
• Roger Corman, Hollywood mentor & king of the B-movie, dies aged 98 - "Corman made over 400 movies including cult classics Death Race 2000, Piranha and The Little Shop of Horrors and launched the careers of Scorsese and De Niro."
• 20 Greatest James Bond Villain Quotes of All Time - "James Bond villains value both actions and words. Here are some of their most memorable quotes."
• How Do I Know if My Untucked Shirt Is Too Long? - "You can tell when a shirt has been created with untucking in mind because the shirttails are generally shorter and neatly hemmed; more horizontal or gently curved than tonsil-shaped."
• Brutal heatwaves & submerged cities: what a 3C world would look like - "Climate scientists have told the Guardian they expect catastrophic levels of global heating. Here’s what that would mean for the planet."
• The Art of Not Caring: 10 Simple Ways to Live a Happy Life - "In this article, we'll explore ten simple strategies to help you embrace the art of not caring and find greater joy in your daily life."
• Airline meals used to be plentiful, luxurious. Here’s what happened - "Today, if you’re flying coach, you’ll need to book a long-distance international flight or - maybe if you’re lucky - a coast-to-coast domestic one to receive a free meal. On shorter flights, you might get a choice of complementary Biscoff cookies or pretzels."
• 9 most luxurious trains around the world - "1. The Ghan. 2. Royal Scotsman, A Belmond Train. 3. Rovos Rail. 4. Golden Eagle Danube Express. 5. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, A Belmond Train. 6. The Vietage by Anantara. 7. Seven Stars in Kyushu. 8. The Maharajas' Express. 9. Rocky Mountaineer."
• The Treadmill Desk Might Really Be Worth It - "Research shows they can indeed deliver fitness benefits while you work - but only if you use them wisely. Experts have long known that extended inactivity can be bad for your body, increasing your risk for heart disease, Type 2 diabetes and other illnesses."
• The ultimate book lover's stay: Sleep in your favourite author's home - "From Agatha Christie to Ian Fleming to Jane Austen, here are five famous author homes-turned hotels where bookworms can lay their heads."
• Paris's most authentic & delicious bistros & the best dishes they offer - "From classic steak frites at Bistrot Paul Bert to French onion soup at La Poule au Pot, these seven diehard favourites will never go out of fashion."
• The 6 Best White Sneakers of 2024 | Reviews by Wirecutter - "Since 2019, we’ve laced up 30 contenders (and considered 120 pairs), in men’s, women’s, and unisex sizes. With help from a panel of testers, we’ve landed on six terrific, highly varied options."
• 7 Best Adidas Walking Shoes for Men 2024 - "You won't be able to walk nearly as long as you'd like if your sneaker isn't delivering the finest support, cushioning, and breathability, and let's not forget about traction, lest you slip and fall while crossing the street. Walking is what I do best, so trust me when I tell you to turn to Adidas for a walking shoe that won't quit."
• Kith Classics adidas Originals Summer 2024 - "Kith Gets Colorful For Their adidas Originals Classics Collection For Summer 2024. A 'Palette'-like treatment for 6 adidas classics. Kith x adidas has become one of the more reliable relationships in both brand’s arsenals, the German and NYC imprints joining forces each successive season for tonal takes on Three Stripes staples. Just a few months after their Spring 2024 offerings, the two are reuniting for their largest and most vibrant collection yet, Kith x adidas Originals Classics Summer 2024."
• London’s remaining men-only gentlemen’s clubs discuss female membership - "Club secretaries at some institutions are understood to be consulting lawyers after vote at Garrick. Discussions are under way over whether to admit women at several of London’s remaining gentlemen’s clubs after this week’s vote by Garrick club members to allow women to join after 193 years."
• Unique Patek Philippe Steel Sonnerie Minute Repeater Sells For $17.3 Million In Return Of Only Watch - "While the Christie's website was down, it didn't stop the bidding for Patek, Journe, Rexhepi, and others."
• The 15 most dangerous places in the world - "Some of the most dangerous places can be found in the USA, Australia, Thailand, and Russia. Some are so dangerous, that tourists are banned from going."
• 8 things successful people never do in the morning, according to psychology - "There’s a vast difference between being successful and striving for success. Success doesn’t just involve doing the right things. Sometimes, it’s about avoiding the wrong ones, particularly at the start of your day."
• 90 swimming pools, 24-karat gold facials & all-day champagne - "Inside the Middle East’s ‘best’ luxury resort. These are just some of the ultra-luxury experiences at one of the Middle East’s most opulent resorts, Atlantis The Royal Dubai."
• When Is the Best Time to Work Out? - "It’s an age-old question. But a few recent studies have brought us closer to an answer."
• Why regenerative garments are the ultimate status symbol - "Sustainably grown fibres, traceable from farm to garment, could be the antidote to climate-destroying fast fashion. But can this trend ever reach the high street? Picture the scene."
• New analysis of Beethoven’s hair reveals possible cause of mysterious ailments, scientists say - "High levels of lead detected in authenticated locks of Ludwig van Beethoven’s hair suggest that the composer had lead poisoning, which may have contributed to ailments he endured over the course of his life, including deafness, according to new research."
• How Embraer builds airplanes that passengers love - with no middle seat - "Why these Brazilian airplanes loved by passengers are conquering short-haul flying. One man’s loss is another man’s gain, goes the saying - and as Boeing seems caught in a spiral of bad news, one aircraft manufacturer is quietly powering ahead."
• Former passenger jets bought by US firm tasked with creating next generation of nuclear ‘Doomsday’ planes - "They could become what amounts to a Pentagon in the sky, taking aboard the US president, secretary of defense and members of the Joint Chiefs among more than 100 other people with the ability to control US forces worldwide from the aircraft. Survivable Airborne Operations Center is the official name of the new Doomsday plane."
• 11 Italian Cocktails That Taste Like a Vacation - "Can't make it to the Amalfi coast? These recipes are the next best thing to booking a flight."
• Apple apologises for iPad ad criticised as ‘destruction of the human experience’ - "Advert featuring huge hydraulic press crushing cultural objects struck wrong note with many."
• A new iPhone shortcut replicates Android's best new feature - "Google's design manager for Google Lens, Minsang Choi, shared a new iOS shortcut in a post on X that's designed to leverage the Action button on iPhone 15 Pro devices. When activated, the shortcut takes a screenshot of whatever you're looking at and immediately funnels it into the Google app and runs a Lens scan."
• ‘Full of secrets & promises’: Dusty Springfield’s 20 greatest songs - ranked! - "Sixty years after her debut album, we rate the pop singer’s best tracks, from a song recorded in a stairwell to a Pet Shop Boys collaboration."
• Ian McShane: ‘When I was about to get it on with Richard Burton, he said I reminded him of Elizabeth’ - "The actor on the fate of Lovejoy’s leather jacket, appearing nude on the cover of Cosmo and how to make a perfect cup of tea."
• Peter Jackson Working on New ‘Lord of the Rings’ Films for Warner Bros., Targeting 2026 Debut - "The first film, which will center on the character of Gollum, has Andy Serkis set to star and direct."
• Cass Elliot’s Death Spawned a Horrible Myth. She Deserves Better - "The Mamas & the Papas singer was known for her wit, her voice and her skill as a connector. For 50 years, a rumor has overshadowed her legacy."
• Ditch the mirror & celebrate your strengths: therapists on 20 ways to boost your body confidence - "Do you want to love how you look but always compare yourself with others? There are plenty of ways to overcome this, from life drawing to CBT to social media detoxes."
• I’m a flight attendant. You need to get over your reclining seat rage - "In her three-decade long career, flight attendant Heather Poole has seen her fair share of passenger disputes over reclining seats."
• Here are the ultraprocessed foods you most need to avoid, according to a 30-year study - "Eating ultraprocessed foods is associated with an early risk of death, according to a 30-year study - but different foods have different impacts."
• Disney & WBD launch streaming bundle combining Disney+, Hulu & Max - "Seeking further scale in the streaming business, Disney and Warner Bros. Discovery announced on Wednesday plans for a cross-studio bundle that would combine Disney+ and Disney’s Hulu with Warner Bros.’ Max, which includes an array of programming from that studio and its premium service, HBO."
• iron pillar in India has been exposed to the elements for over 1,600 years. So why hasn’t it ever rusted? - "Iside New Delhi’s UNESCO-listed Qutb Minar complex - a collection of historic monuments and buildings built in the early 13th century in the city’s southern Mehrauli district - one mysterious structure stands as a testament to this very enigma."
• Labyrinth walking: An ancient activity that could help ease anxiety - "Walking labyrinths has become an increasingly popular global method of reducing stress by integrating the mind and the body."
• 15 Things You Didn’t Know Your iPhone Could Do - "No matter how long you’ve used an iPhone, there are always new (or new-to-you) features to discover. And stumbling upon a time-saving trick after so many years is, quite frankly, a delight. Here are 15 tips and tricks that Wirecutter staffers rely on all the time. If you don’t already know about them, we hope they make your life a lot easier."
• 10 Google Maps Features Every Daily Commuter Should Know - "Whether you're a new user or a seasoned veteran, the app's got some pretty neat tricks to empower and simplify your commutes, and it's reflected in the fact that Google Maps has over one billion active users per month."
• How You Type on Your Phone Reveals If You're Gen X, Millennial or Boomer - "You might think that your skin, fashion, or hairstyle are clear signs of your age, but one TikTok poster has told Newsweek that the way we type is also a major signal of someone's age."
• how piaget became the world's hottest watch brand - "'The entire Polo philosophy can be summed up in one sentence,' chairman Yves G Piaget said at the time. 'It’s a watch bracelet rather than a mere wristwatch.' 'The concept was: ‘The most expensive watch in the world’.'"
• The world's 20 most beautiful countries are named - "One of the best things about the advent of the aircraft has been the opportunities it is has given people to travel around the world in just a matter of hours."
• THE 50 BEST BEACHES IN THE WORLD, 2024 - "Welcome to the 2024 list of The World's 50 Best Beaches. Our 2024 list is a culmination of countless days spent by our judges, Beach Ambassadors and World's 50 Beaches team exploring beaches all over the world. We hope this list provides the inspiration you need to plan your next beach vacation."
• My Ripley-inspired stay in Florence’s most glamorous apartments - "These new Italian residences have the timeless-luxury look of those in the Netflix series - as well as private chefs, art experiences, and live opera in your lounge."
• Bill Gates Harvests $113 Million In Nebraska Farmland, Takes Out $700 Million In Loans - "Over the past six years, billionaire Bill Gates has spent more than $113 million purchasing Nebraska farmland and has taken out two loans totaling $700 million against it. Many high-net-worth individuals borrow against their assets if they need money they can spend."
• Why Richard Gere Was Banned From The Oscars For 20 Whole Years - "Richard Gere was banned from the Oscars and China for making political remarks as an Academy Awards presenter in 1993. Despite the ban, Gere made a successful return to the Oscars in 2003 and again in 2013, showcasing his resilience in Hollywood."
• Daniel Barenboim: What Beethoven's Ninth Teaches Us - "The conductor Daniel Barenboim explores the political and spiritual power of what many consider the greatest symphony."
• The Sprinter Van’s Glamorous Turn - "Famous actors, singers, athletes and housewives are fans of the Mercedes-Benz van, which has become a staple in streets outside events like the Met Gala."
• Giant Batteries Are Transforming the Way the U.S. Uses Electricity - "They’re delivering solar power after dark in California and helping to stabilize grids in other states. And the technology is expanding rapidly. To fill the gap, power companies typically burn more fossil fuels like natural gas. That's now changing. Since 2020, California has installed more giant batteries than anywhere in the world apart from China. They can soak up excess solar power during the day and store it for use when it gets dark."
• Shots, Shots, Shots! Why Tiny Drinks Are on the Rise - "Bartenders are shrinking their pours with variety and festivity in mind."
• How Bad Are Ultraprocessed Foods, Really? - "They’re clearly linked to poor health. But scientists are only beginning to understand why. In a large review of studies that was published in 2024, scientists reported that consuming UPFs was associated with 32 health problems, with the most convincing evidence for heart disease-related deaths, Type 2 diabetes and common mental health issues like anxiety and depression."
• Why You Should Release Nespresso Pods Immediately After each brew - "The pods themselves are easily discarded, but the metal machine spikes that pierced those pods can be exposed to growing mold from the wet coffee grounds. You don't want those musty creepy crawlies finding a home in there."
• The only mocha guide you'll ever need - "Coffee and chocolate sits firmly as one of the most popular flavour combinations of all time. And without doubt, one of the most delicious ways of pairing the two is in a mocha. But what is a mocha, where does the mocha originate from, why is it called mocha and most importantly, how do you make a delicious mocha at home? Our mocha guide has everything you need to know about this tasty coffee and chocolate combo."
• Sonos announces redesigned app that puts everything on your homescreen - "The company’s desktop apps are being phased out in favor of a web app that lets you control your Sonos gear from anywhere. It’ll roll out for both Android and iOS on May 7th."
• Met Gala 2024 fashion: The best looks from the red carpet - "Celebrities descended on New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art on Monday night for the annual Met Gala. The extravagant event raises money for the museum's Costume Institute. Zendaya, Jennifer Lopez, Bad Bunny and Chris Hemsworth were co-chairs alongside Anna Wintour."
• Warren Buffett compares AI to nuclear weapons in stark warning - "The so-called Oracle of Omaha acknowledged to his audience that he has little idea about the tech behind AI, but said he still fears its potential repercussions."
• AI Recreates the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World - "From the Statue of Zeus at Olympia to the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, AI recreated the seven wonders of the ancient world."
• I bought Trump's Bible - a blasphemous, sticky nightmare - "Trump Steaks, Trump Vodka, and various Trump casinos have all failed - but has the ex-president finally found himself a winning product?"
• King Charles III Coronation: A year of royal symbols decoded - "From the Coronation invitation to the latest coins unveiled by the Royal Mint, what does King Charles III's iconography mean? A year on from the Coronation, here's a guide to the messages in the emblems."
• This James Bond Movie Has The Highest Rotten Tomatoes Score In The Franchise - "It also happens to be the 007 movie with the highest Rotten Tomatoes score. Goldfinger is the gold standard according to Rotten Tomatoes."
• ‘I thought: “I’ve engineered the death of Hugh Grant!’’’ - the inside story of Four Weddings & a Funeral - "The low-budget romcom about Britain’s upper middle classes launched the careers of its writer Richard Curtis and Grant. Cast and crew share their stories - from Liz Hurley in that dress to Amber Rudd’s role as an ‘aristocracy coordinator’."
• Hollywood hysteria: the 60s movies that showed a time of madness - "During a decade of American disillusionment, a series of films, from Seconds to What Ever Happened to Baby Jane, represented a culture cracking up."
• This Is The Key To Perfectly Brewed Moka Pot Coffee Every Time, According To A Pro Barista - "For the best-tasting coffee, clean your moka pot after every use. The grind size will affect the strength of your coffee's flavor."
• The synthetic coffee revolution: are ground date seeds really as delicious as the real thing? - "Your daily caffeine habit is not good for the planet. Thankfully, researchers are finding alternatives to ground coffee beans."
• These Couples Survived a Lot. Then Came Retirement - "For many relationships, life after work brings an unexpected set of challenges."
• Designed by GÉrald Genta: The Rolex King Midas - "The late legendary watch designer, Gérald Genta had plenty of hits to his name: the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak, the Patek Philippe Nautilus, and the Cartier Pasha - just to name a few. But did you know that he had a hand in designing a Rolex watch too? The Rolex King Midas to be exact, and in true Genta form, this is far from your traditional, run-of-the-mill design."
• This Hidden Apple iOS Feature Makes Your iPhone Calls Much Better - "Your phone calls can sound a whole lot better in just four easy steps. When enabled, Voice Isolation muffles distracting background noises that interrupt your phone call. That way, if you're on a business call or catching up with friends, you won't be interrupted by your dog's barking or construction outside your home."
• Swiss army knife maker to produce version without a blade - "Victorinox, producer of the celebrated pocket tool, responds to ‘plague of knife crime’ with new variant."
• 20 Beautiful Places in the World Ruined by Overtourism - "Overtourism is essentially the idea of a greater than optimal number of tourists visiting any area. UNWTO predicts that destinations around the world will host approximately 1.5 billion international tourists in 2024, the highest volume ever recorded."
• Madonna's free Brazil concert at Rio's Copacabana beach attracts more than 1.6 million fans - "Madonna put on a free concert in Rio de Janeiro on Saturday night with throngs of fans flocking to see the pop idol on Brazil's famous Copacabana beach. The signer performed some of her greatest hits, including Nothing Really Matters, Like a Prayer and Vogue, and was joined on stage at one point by Brazilian singer Anitta."
• The 'delicious irony' of the Met Gala's Garden of Time theme - "In JG Ballard's dystopian story The Garden of Time - which has inspired this year's dress code - the super-rich hide themselves in Arcadian splendour while the 'great unwashed' riot. It seems an unlikely choice of theme for fashion's event of the year."
• A Full List of All 47 Unique Lots for Only Watch 2024 - "The 10th iteration of Only Watch is scheduled for May 10, 2024, at Palexpo in Geneva, where Christie's will auction off 47 exceptionally unique pieces."
• The best Rolex watches to invest in, according to Rolex experts - "Watch prices have fallen since a 2022 high, meaning now might be the time to bag that Rolex you've been dreaming of."
• The 10 Best New Movies On Netflix In May 2024 - "From dark indie dramas about addiction and familiar love to sci-fi reboots that reignite storied romances to a surprise documentary from A24 about conservation, there’s sure to be an option for any kind of movie lover."
• Rotten Tomatoes' 300 Best Movies of All Time - "The highest-rated movies of all time, as reviewed and selected by Tomatometer-approved critics and Rotten Tomatoes users."
• Ultra high net worth individuals look to Monaco for post ‘non-dom’ era living - "Earlier in April this year, Chancellor Jeremy Hunt announced that the United Kingdom’s government will scrap the ‘non-dom’ tax status, prompting many ultra high net worth individuals to leave London in favour of more financially preferable destinations, such as Dubai and Monaco."
• Living the Italian dream just got easier, thanks to a new visa - "Packing up your life and making a fresh start abroad is a dream for many, and new visa programs and tax incentives are making it a bit more achievable. Portugal, Spain and Costa Rica are some of the countries with popular digital nomad visas, and now there are two new options for remote workers."
• Meet the Vatican Swiss Guards ready to sacrifice their lives for the pope - "World’s smallest army, which is preparing to swear in its latest recruits, has in the past engaged in ferocious battles."
• The Bauhaus Nazis: the collaborators & worse - among the design icons - "They were seen as heroes and martyrs who defied the Nazis. But a new show in Weimar reveals horrifying details about some Bauhauslers, one of whom designed the crematoriums at Auschwitz."
• Hats on & Off at the 150th Kentucky Derby - "America's most famous horse race may be celebrating a milestone this year, but the hats are the real stars of the show."
• the history of breasts in art - "From lactating Madonnas to disembodied orbs, a new exhibition surveys the depictions of breasts and asks - what about the women who own them?"
• Can the Panama Canal save itself? - "The most famous waterway in the Americas is running dry. Unlike the Suez Canal, the Panama Canal is fed by a freshwater lake, Lake Gatún, and its water level is falling critically low."
• Warren Buffett backs Apple after firm sells millions of shares in iPhone maker - "Berkshire Hathaway CEO stressed relationship at annual meeting attracting Apple CEO Tim Cook, Bill Gates and Bill Murray."
• How to make the most of Apple Notes - "The iPhone’s default note-taking app continues to get better."
• Jerry Seinfeld Can No Longer Be About Nothing - "The comedian, long beloved for his apolitical riffs, has been wrestling with what it means to be Jewish amid the Israel-Hamas war. Not everyone is pleased."
• Meet world's richest family who live in $478m house, own 700 cars - "Royal family of Abu Dhabi owns eight aircrafts and football team Manchester City."
• The worst summer on record for the Great Barrier Reef - "‘Like wildfires underwater’: Worst summer on record for Great Barrier Reef as coral die-off sweeps planet."
• There’s actually no such thing as vegetables. Here’s why you should eat them anyway - "The rumors are true: Vegetables aren’t real - that is, in botany, anyway. While the term fruit is recognized botanically as anything that contains a seed or seeds, vegetable is actually a broad umbrella term for many types of edible plants."
• Why France is finding vegan croissants hard to stomach - "There it sits, in all its flaky glory, with a crust the colour of autumn leaves, and two plump claws almost begging to be torn off and devoured. Light as air and as French as the guillotine. One impeccable croissant."
• Copenhagen’s Michelin-Starred Restaurants Are the World’s Most Expensive: Report - "In the Danish capital, you'll spend $443 on average for dinner at some of the world's best restaurants."
• Every Kith x Tag Heuer Formula 1 Watch, Ranked - "Ten watches, all top gear. But which deserves championship title?"
• Take Your Apple Watch to the Next Level with These 7 Hidden App Store Gems - "Download these third-party apps to make the already-capable Apple Watch even more fun and useful."
• Met Gala 2024: Everything you need to know - "The first Monday in May is nearly upon us. The Party of the Year. The Oscars of the East. Fashion's Biggest Night. The theme is simply the title of the Costume Institute's new exhibition, 'Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion.' The Met Gala also has a 'dress code.' This year's dress code is 'The Garden of Time.'"
• Met Gala: Seven of the best looks over the decades - "From Cher's naked dress to Rihanna's 'omelette gown', the gala has seen many iconic looks. As the fashion event of the year approaches, Ellie Violet Bramley looks back at some of its magic moments."
• Paris Olympics: Super-rich spending up to $500,000 on exclusive Paris Olympics packages - "Third-party hospitality packages are outlawed, yet agency part-owned by associates of Rafael Nadal and LeBron James promises access to top events as well as to stars."
• There’s a tiny corner of Europe in North Africa. Here’s what it’s like - "Inside the tiny corner of Spain that lies in the middle of North Africa."
• ‘China’s Cape Canaveral’ is booming, fueled by moon mission & space program - "Hainan, a Chinese island that’s geographically closer to Hanoi than Beijing, is known as the Hawaii of China due to its sandy beaches and temperate weather. But there’s another reason tourists from around China are flocking to Hainan these days: space."
• Covid Vaccine Side Effects: 4 Takeaways From Our Investigation - "Soon after their arrival in late December 2020, the Covid-19 vaccines turned the pandemic around and opened a path back to normalcy. They prevented about 14.4 million deaths worldwide, according to one estimate. In a small percentage of people, they also produced side effects, say, in just 0.001 percent of patients."
• Nine of the best TV shows to watch this May - "From Tudor detective show Shardlake to the return of Bridgerton and Doctor Who, and Benedict Cumberbatch starring alongside a puppet in Netflix thriller series Eric."
• 12 best movie watches: T3's favourite timepieces from the silver screen - "Omega, TAG Heuer, Hamilton and Swatch are among our favourite watches from the movies."
• How to tell if someone has read your email on Gmail - "To find out when an email you sent was opened, you can request a read receipt. A read receipt is sent to you as an email with the time and date of when your message was opened."
• Berlin wants to give away Joseph Goebbels’ countryside villa - "Berlin’s finance minister says property owned by Hitler’s propaganda minister will be demolished if taker not found."
• Understanding The Art of GuillochÉ Dials - "One of the most revered decorative techniques, we take a closer look at how guilloche dials are made, and some examples of patterns."
• World Press Freedom Day - "Attacks on press freedom around the world are intensifying, index reveals. In the past year, in virtually every region, journalists and independent media outlets faced increasing repression."
• The pro-Palestinian US campus protests in maps, videos & photos - "A visual guide to the protest movement and the police response."
• Surfer risking life to fulfil dream of riding world’s biggest waves - "Why big wave surfer Sebastian Steudtner feels most at ‘peace’ at the mercy of Mother Nature."
• Wounded orangutan seen using plant as medicine - "A Sumatran orangutan in Indonesia has self-medicated using a paste made from plants to heal a large wound on his cheek, say scientists. It is the first time a creature in the wild has been recorded treating an injury with a medicinal plant."
• A full throttle weekend guide to Miami - "Primarily known for its glorious weather, luscious beaches and vibrant nightlife, Miami has also established itself as one of the most exciting sporting cities in the world over the last few years."
• Inside King Charles's '12-minute workout' - "Royal, 75, 'starts the day with press ups, sit ups and half-naked headstands', experts reveal."
• The Fastest Way to Boost Your Fitness: Sprinting - "Sprinting, at least for short distances, can be a great way to level up your workout routine. The reporter ran sprints and hurdles in high school, but then gave it up. He rediscovered track in his mid-30s and now runs a 100-meter dash in 15 seconds."
• This Test Might Be the Best Way to Track Fitness & Longevity - "VO2 max has become ubiquitous in fitness circles. But what does it measure and how important is it to know yours? Fitness is full of numbers meant to help you become faster and stronger. There's your mile run time, your resting heart rate and measures of strength and flexibility. But perhaps the gold standard is VO2 max."
• ‘We’re in a new era’: the 21st-century space race takes off - "As humans enter what has been termed the ‘third space age’, it’s private companies - not governments - leading the charge."
• Pier pressure: more than 1,000 sea lions assemble at San Francisco dockside - "Tourists delighted as pinnipeds congregate at city’s Pier 39, apparently attracted by feast of anchovies."
• The 13 Best Mob Bosses in Gangster Movies, Ranked - "'I'm gonna make him an offer he can't refuse.'"
• How Did Black Forest Cake Become the World’s Favorite Dessert? - "Dessert lovers from Chile to Pakistan to Fiji claim it as a national treat. How did it get there from the woods of Germany?"
• ChatGPT’s chatbot rival Claude to be introduced on iPhone - "Challenger to market leader OpenAI says it wants to ‘meet users where they are’ and become part of users’ everyday life."
• Apple working to fix alarming iPhone issue - "Apple says it is working quickly to fix an issue that caused some iPhone alarms not to play a sound, giving their slumbering users an unexpected lie-in."
• ‘Did you take Ozempic?’ Barbra Streisand gives a masterclass in how not to pay a compliment - "The singer just wanted to tell Melissa McCarthy how great she was looking. Was it a good idea to mention a weight-loss drug?"
• Which Real-Life Gangster Marlon Brando's The Godfather Character Is Based On - "Actor Marlon Brando portrayed the powerful mob boss Vito Corleone in The Godfather series, a character who is based on an array of real life people."
• 10 best film noirs of all time, ranked - "From classic tales of revenge and power to tragic melodramas about fallen heroes, these are the best film noirs."
• Jeff Bezos’s Homes: Inside His More Than $500 Million Property Portfolio - "The Amazon founder’s most recent purchase brings his holdings on Miami’s Indian Creek Island to roughly $177 million."
• 100 years of Montblanc's biggest icon: the MeisterstÜck - "This year, Montblanc is celebrating one-hundred-years of its most iconic creation, the Meisterstück range, a flagship line of pens so sought after, revered, and collected that it has become a piece of history in its own right."
• iOS 17.5: New features, release date & more details - "iOS 17.5 will be released to everyone sometime in mid-May. While iOS 17.5 isn’t quite as big of an update as other iOS 17 updates, it still includes its fair share of new features and updates."
• This airport says it hasn’t lost a single piece of baggage in 30 years - "While Singapore and Doha’s airports compete against each other for the title of 'world’s best,' another aviation hub is focusing on a different achievement. Japan’s Kansai International Airport (KIX) is marking 30 years without losing a single piece of luggage."
• Inside world’s most luxurious train costing passengers £2,400 a night with panoramic windows & your very own butler - "JAPAN is famed for its ultra-fast bullet trains - but this lavish train journey is one of its kind. The Seven Stars is the first luxury sleeper train in the country which offers a unique experience like nowhere else."
• 11 of the best films to watch in May - "Including the latest Mad Max and Planet of the Apes films and Jerry Seinfeld's comedy about Pop-Tarts - this month's unmissable movies to watch and stream."
• A New Fitness Craze With Big Drama - "Hyrox, a sporting event founded in Germany, has earnd a large following for its dazzling, high-profile races."
• Meet the Men Who Eat Meat (& Only Meat) - "With the help of Joe Rogan, a social media trend with staying power emerged from a 2018 book, 'The Carnivore Diet.'"
• That Strange Piece of Metal Origami Embodies All of Elon Musk’s Flaws - "His ethos and approach to running Tesla are embodied by his pet project, the Cybertruck. Though it fits the technical definition of a truck (it has a bed), the vehicle looks more like an origami version of an El Camino. Mr. Musk suggested its stainless steel exterior might be bulletproof; some owners say it rusts."
• 10 Hidden iOS 17.4 Features You'll Want To Start Using On Your iPhone - "Along with some headline-grabbing new features, there are some smaller additions and upgrades that can make life a little easier. Here are the hidden iOS 17.4 features you might have missed but will want to start using right away."
• The Top 5 Apple Music Hidden Features - "There are features that only power users, or frequent users of the program, have figured out. Whether you have listened to Apple Music for years or are just starting out, give these tips a try and see how they optimize your user experience."
• How Real Estate Became Showbiz & Agents Became Stars - "Fueled by the public’s love of reality TV and desire to view luxury homes, real estate agents are chasing fame as fervently as they chase deals."
• Titanic II scheduled to set sail in 2027 - "The ship is scheduled to set sail in June of 2027, although tickets are not yet available. First, Blue Star Line, of which Palmer is CEO, has to build Titanic II. That's something the mining billionaire and politician has hoped to do for more than a decade."
• Every Non-Ian Fleming James Bond Movie, Ranked Worst To Best - "Although Ian Fleming's influence can be felt throughout the James Bond films, some movies have moved completely away from the source material."
• A Guide To The Operating Costs Of The Gulfstream G700 - "Gulfstream's G700 provides luxurious amenities, circadian lighting, non-recycled air, and a speed of up to 531 knots. Operating costs post-purchase for the G700 can range from $2.2 to $3.5 million annually, depending on flying hours. Assuming the cruise speed is 552mph, a flight costs $19.69 per mile."

May, 2024

• I switched through all the best music streamers for a month to compare them - here are the 7 biggest things I learned - "During my testing, I was pleasantly surprised by how well all the top music streaming services adapted to my musical tastes. I found Tidal and Apple Music's suggestions impressive, but Spotify remains the leader in recommending new tracks and music."
• 5 reasons I prefer Apple Music over Spotify - "I swear I can hear the difference in audio quality."
• The Secrets to Enhancing Memory for Everyone - "Researchers explore the intricate mechanisms of memory and debunk common myths about its function."
• Meet the 8 Phenomenal Stocks Warren Buffett Plans to Hold Forever - "Whereas the benchmark S&P 500 has gained a healthy 33,000%, including dividends, since the affably named 'Oracle of Omaha' became Berkshire's CEO, Buffett has overseen just shy of a 5,000,000% aggregate return in his company's Class A shares (BRK.A), as of the closing bell on April 25."
• Coca-Cola reveals full scale of price rises as it unveils bumper profits - "Coca-Cola has boosted profits in the first three months of the year - driven by customers buying more drinks at higher prices."
• Dead bodies are left behind on Mount Everest - "Why are hundreds of climbers heading into the ‘death zone’ this spring?"
• Dubai reveals massive plans for the world’s busiest airport - "A mammoth airport in Saudi Arabia has already set records for size, but new plans in Dubai are ratcheting up the race to be the world’s busiest airport by passenger volume."
• 9 Reasons Your Laptop Needs a Docking Station - "It's like having a desktop PC you can take with you. Upgrade your laptop with a docking station for better peripherals and more ports at a fraction of the cost of a new PC. Save energy, reduce clutter, and avoid noise by docking your laptop - plus connect your phone or tablet for extra productivity."
• What is a chronograph? Everyone’s favourite watch complication explained - "A chronograph is a type of watch that has a stopwatch on the dial, alongside the traditional time-telling features, like the hour and minute markers, and hands. On a chronograph watch, you'll see a smaller circle on the dial, typically located towards the six o'clock position."
• Which Country Has The Most Private Jets? - "The most private jets are in the United States. Unsurprisingly, the US has by far the most private jets. Home to some of the world's richest business executives, athletes, and celebrities, the country also has some of the most expensive and exclusive private jets."
• A Look At The Unique Gulfstream G650 Interior - "Extreme comfort with every measure to avoid jet lag. Over 500 examples of the type have been produced, and popular demand led to a 3-year waiti
• Flight attendant's clever hack to charge your phone without a charger in any hotel room - "Forgotten your plug adapter on holiday? Don't worry, the world will not end - as a flight attendant has revealed a genius trick she swears by to work around the issue. 'Use your USB cable and charge it in the TV.' The flight attendant added: 'This is extremely helpful if you forgot or lost your wall plug from your charger.'"
• Apple warns iPhone users about overnight iPhone charging - "On the support page, Apple warns, "...don't sleep on a device, power adapter, or wireless charger, or place them under a blanket, pillow, or your body, when it's connected to a power source. Keep your iPhone, the power adapter, and any wireless charger in a well-ventilated area when in use or charging."
• iPhone hidden feature: How to enable night vision mode - "1. On your iPhone, open Settings. 2. In the Accessibility tab, search for Display & Text Size. 3. Turn on Color Filters and select Color Tint. 4. Move Intensity and Hue to the far-right position for the full red-screen effect."
• Tourists continue to visit Hawaii’s Haiku Stairs even as it gets removed for overtourism - "The soap opera surrounding the Haiku Stairs, a disused staircase in a remote part of eastern Oahu that has become popular on social media, continues even as the local government has begun removing the famed landmark."
• What it’s really like to live in Macao - "Macao, the Chinese special administrative region (SAR) often twinned with Hong Kong, is known as the Las Vegas of Asia. As the only place in greater China where gambling is legal, the city’s skyline is a who’s-who of the biggest names in the gaming industry."
• Cash is king - for now: China signals it will slow transition to cashless society - "With tourists struggling to access the two primary digital payment apps, Alipay and WeChat pay, Beijing has put measures in place to make cash payments easier."
• ‘She was trying to find herself’: the untold story of Peggy Guggenheim, Hampshire homemaker - "The socialite and collector prioritised art over family and claimed she had 1,000 lovers. But a new UK exhibition tells another tale - that of the five years she spent in Hampshire and Sussex leading a relatively ordinary life, as her granddaughter explains."
• Biden swings at Trump during White House Correspondents’ Dinner remarks as pro-Palestinian protesters rally outside - "Speaking to a crowd of nearly 3,000 journalists, celebrities and politicians, Biden added, 'Age is the only thing we have in common. My vice president actually endorses me.'"
• White House Correspondents’ Dinner 2024 Photos: Best Of The Red Carpet - "The annual White House Correspondents’ Dinner will bring together celebrities, journalists covering the political beat, and the President of the United States on a night to celebrate the First Amendment."
• Gold pocket watch of richest man on Titanic fetches record-breaking £1.2m - "Amount paid for businessman John Jacob Astor’s watch is highest ever for Titanic memorabilia, auctioneers say."
• The demise of Twitter: how a ‘utopian vision’ for social media became a ‘toxic mess’ - "In the early days it was seen as a place for ‘genuine public discourse’, but users have fled since Elon Musk took over. What went wrong? If anything is emblematic of the demise of Twitter, it is the rise and stall of the account of Oprah Winfrey."
• Rolls-Royce is growing its factory so it can build cars more slowly - "his factory expansion isn’t about making more cars, but making more expensive cars, which takes more time and requires more space for workshops and storage of exotic materials. The expansion signals something about Rolls-Royce’s ultra-wealthy clientele. While they can only buy so many cars, they can certainly spend more on each one."
• 12 of the most inspiring off-grid hideaways - "A new book features unique sanctuaries in some of North America's most beautiful natural landscapes, including mountain-top cabins, forest homes inspired by treehouses, A-frame structures and desert retreats. It reveals how 'parkitecture', the architectural style of US national parks, influences wilderness building styles today – having minimal impact while celebrating natural surroundings."
• Sharon Stone admits to trying to confront her ‘demons’ due to mental health struggles in emotional interview - "Sharon Stone confessed in a new interview she often fights to overcome her mental health struggles. Stone, who works with the World Health Organization, noted that one in 10 people “on a global level” are having 'a mental crisis.'"
• The Fashion Influencers of the French Revolution - "'Liberty Equality Fashion' explores radical shifts in fashion that embodied the ideas of the French Revolution and the women who led the charge."
• The ‘boring phone’: stressed-out gen Z ditch smartphones for dumbphones - "The feature-free phone, launched at Milan design week, is the latest device to tap into young people’s concerns about attention-harvesting and data privacy."
• New AirPods Point to a Hearing Aid Mode, Even More Health Tracking - "Commentary: With iOS 18 around the corner, will AirPods get another hearing health option?"
• Our Favorite Socks for Spring - "Gone are the days when bare ankles and no-show socks were the sole options; a quick glance on the street confirms that we are living in a sock-proud era. Here are some of my favorite see-and-be-seen socks"
• Gold watch worn by richest passenger aboard Titanic to be sold at auction - "A gold watch worn by John Jacob Astor IV, a member of the wealthy Astor family and the richest man aboard the Titanic, will go up for sale at an auction of memorabilia from the doomed ship."
• Titanic’s Treasures Captivate Collectors, but They’ll Need Deep Pockets - "Numerous artifacts from the Titanic, including a violin case, are up for auction this weekend in England. Collectors are ready to pounce."
• Julian Assange’s mission was to change the world - but at what cost? - "Julian Assange started his WikiLeaks whistleblowing website on a quest for “radical transparency and truth,” a mission that turned an already polarizing personality into a notorious character and earned him crusaders and critics in equal measure."
• A coal billionaire is building the world’s biggest clean energy plant - "Five times the size of Paris. Visible from space. The world’s biggest energy plant. Enough electricity to power Switzerland."
• Is Online Shopping Bad for the Planet? - "In theory, getting deliveries can be more efficient than driving to the store. But you may still want to think before you add to cart. The convenience of online shopping is hard to beat. But it uses a lot of energy and resources and can lead to more waste. Transportation needed for online shopping spews greenhouse emissions."
• A secretive billionaire is building a superyacht that will be even taller than Jeff Bezos’ $500 million yacht Koru - "Named Noir, the vessel with a sloop rig standing 305 feet high will overshadow the Amazon founder’s ship."
• The World's Most Wanted Wines - "Step aside Burgundy, there's only one region people are seriously searching."
• 12 years later, I finally learned how to type on my iPhone the right way - "7 iPhone keyboard tricks that help me type faster. These iPhone keyboard tricks will be as game-changing for you as they have been for me."
• Denmark's Best Vacation Spot, As Voted For By Danes - "Although off-the-radar to many international tourists, Bornholm is known among Scandinavians as one of the best places to visit in Denmark. So much so, that Bornholm was crowned Denmark's favorite domestic vacation destination in the most recent Danish Travel Awards for the second consecutive year."
• Did Richard III Kill the Princes in the Tower? - "For over 400 years, Richard III has been seen as Britain’s most infamous king - a power-hungry usurper who killed his young nephews to clear the way to the throne. Philippa Langley devoted years to the search for Richard III’s remains. Now, she’s trying to crack a 15th-century cold case: Did he really assassinate his nephews?"
• A Classic Chicken Dish That Makes You Feel Like a Grown-Up - "Roasted chicken Provençal, with five stars and over 10,000 reviews, is effortlessly elegant. Chicken Provençal is just as good eaten with mismatched silverware and glasses of milk, a fragrant, lemon-garlicky taste of an imaginary commune."
• New York appeals court overturns Harvey Weinstein’s sex crimes conviction & orders a new trial - "The court, by a 4-3 vote, ruled the testimony of 'prior bad acts' witnesses should not have been allowed because it 'was unnecessary to establish defendant’s intent and served only to establish defendant’s propensity to commit the crimes charged.'"
• Harvey Weinstein: Ashley Judd leads backlash against quashed rape conviction - "Hollywood actress Ashley Judd says the overturning of disgraced movie mogul Harvey Weinstein's 2020 rape conviction is a 'hard day for survivors'."
• Evolution of man: how Ryan Gosling changed stardom, cinema & society - "The actor’s feminist credentials, a wholehearted embrace of comedy and being one of the most memed actors on social media has seen Gosling’s auto-satirising alpha male become white-hot box office in 2024."
• Scientists find the fingerprints of climate change on Dubai’s deadly floods - "Over a period of less than 24 hours between April 14 and 15, the United Arab Emirates experienced its heaviest rainfall in since records began 75 years ago."
• How to Prevent a Lost Phone From Ruining Your Life - "Make sure that you can track your phone - Back up everything—seriously - The best portable hard drive - The best two-factor."
• Every iconic James Bond location & how to visit them - "10 iconic James Bond filming locations that should be on every 007 fan's hit list, from Dr No's Jamaican beach to Goldeneye's Swiss dam."
• 7 reasons I use Copilot instead of ChatGPT - "Microsoft's Copilot is the better option and doesn't get the credit it deserves. 1: No knowledge cutoff. Copilot's biggest advantage is the chatbot's lack of a knowledge cutoff. 2: Footnotes. 3: A more advanced model. 4: Voice inputs. 5: Image inputs. 6: Image generation. 7: Shopping assistance."
• Jeff Bezos isn’t a fan of ‘time blocking’ - "Here’s what he does instead to boost his productivity. Jeff Bezos doesn’t jam-pack his schedule or set strict time blocks for all his meetings."
• The International Date Line Is 'Pretty Arbitrary.' Here's Why - "That squiggly line through the Pacific where days begin and end has no legal authority and technically doesn’t exist. A clock on a remote Pacific island strikes midnight 24 hours early on a politician's order. None of those times are empirical scientific facts."
• Sorry CarPlay - this $12 MagSafe Charger gives me the perfect infotainment system in my car - "StandBy Mode in iOS 17 upgrades your infotainment."
• The Best Gear for Travel in 2024 | Reviews by Wirecutter - "Since 2014, we've spent more than 200 hours researching and testing dozens of products to find the most dependable items to help you travel well."
• 13 NescafÉ Instant Coffee Varieties, Ranked Worst To Best - "Nescafé offers numerous, easy-to-use instant coffee varieties. We ranked them based on factors like flavor and aroma to determine which was best."
• ‘Born cool’ - why the varsity jacket is still leader of the pack - "Originally the preserve of Ivy League sportsmen, the jacket has seen incarnations from the likes of Salt-N-Pepa, Palace and Prada. And now Louis Vuitton’s NFT version is going for £7,000."
• What's the Best Way to Salt Scrambled Eggs - "Paying close attention to timing can help you avoid watery eggs. Kenji López-Alt explains why."
• Selling weapons ‘like vacuum cleaners’ - "Photographer’s look at the bizarre world of global arms fairs."
• ‘Are we joking?’: Venice residents protest as city starts charging visitors to enter - "Day-trippers will have to pay €5 to visit Italian city under scheme designed to protect it from excess tourism."
• TSA battery rules: approved power banks & chargers - "Traveling this summer? Stay charged with 10 power banks that pass the TSA’s battery rules."
• 20 easy, enjoyable ways to read more brilliant books - "Do you love reading - but all too often find yourself just scrolling through your phone or watching TV? Here is how to get lost in literature again."
• Time is your most precious commodity. Can you ever get it back? - "Teacher and artist Isabel Manley reflects on how the modern world warped our relationship to time - and how we can begin to rethink it."
• The 25 Best James Bond Watches, Ranked - "Beyond the Omega, Roles and Seiko brands, there’s actually a slew of timepieces from different makers that went on to grace the wrist of 007 over the course of 25 films across nearly six decades."
• Class-Action Lawsuit Against HermÈs Threatens To Expose Luxury Trade Secrets - "Luxury leader Hermès has been hit with a class-action lawsuit claiming the company is engaged in the 'unlawful practice of tying,' requiring customers to purchase ancillary Hermès products, such as shoes, scarves, and jewelry, before being given the opportunity to purchase a Birkin or Kelly bag."
• Let This Breakfast Change Your Life - "A simple miso-roasted salmon, part of a traditional Japanese spread, is both sustenance and self-care."
• Could Eating Less Help You Live Longer? - "Calorie restriction and intermittent fasting both increase longevity in animals, aging experts say. Here’s what that means for you."
• One Walk-in Shower Is as Good as Any Other, Right? Wrong - "Here’s how to make your morning shower more luxurious. Here’s how designers create walk-in showers that their clients love waking up to."
• The Maya Train Will Get You to All of YucatÁn’s Best Spots. But Not Yet - "In December, the train began running on its first route through Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. On a five-day journey a few months later, the author encountered enthusiasm, and scheduling hiccups."
• Anti Social Social Club Unveils Customized Goyard, Rimowa Styles for Spring - "For the first time, the streetwear brand will offer a limited assortment of luxury items as part of its new collection."
• The Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses have multimodal AI now - "It can be handy, confidently wrong, and just plain finicky - but smart glasses are a much more comfortable form factor for this tech."
• Could Trump Go to Prison? If He Does, the Secret Service Goes, Too - "Officials have had preliminary discussions about how to protect the former president in the unlikely event that he is jailed for contempt during the trial."
• What would cornered Trump do for Roy Cohn’s tough-guy dark arts now? - "A film debuting at Cannes charts the young developer’s relationship with the legendarily machiavellian lawyer."
• Greece: Orange Sahara dust haze descends over Athens - "A dramatic orange haze has descended over Athens as clouds of dust have blown in from the Sahara desert. It is one of the worst such episodes to hit Greece since 2018, according to officials. Greece had already been struck by similar clouds in late March and early April, which also covered areas of Switzerland and southern France. The Sahara releases 60 to 200 million tonnes of mineral dust per year."
• Submersible superyachts for billionaires: This Austrian company wants to build them - "The superyacht that turns into a submarine and can stay submerged for four weeks. There’s been a trend in recent years for billionaire basements – subterranean extensions to the homes of the rich and famous, where they can bunker down and live large. Now an Austrian company wants to extend this opportunity for deep-dive delights to the world of superyachts, by building customized private submersibles that can descend 250 meters (820 feet) beneath the ocean surface and remain submerged for up to four weeks."
• 460 Years Ago, Shakespeare Was Born Here. Or Somewhere - "Every year, millions flock to Stratford-upon-Avon, England, to visit the house known as Shakespeare’s Birthplace. But was he really born there? A whole industry depends on it."
• Golden Visa Programs, Once a Boon, Lose Their Luster - "Spain is the latest European country to end its program, which brought in billions of euros from real estate investors seeking residency status but worsened a housing crisis for locals. Half a dozen eurozone countries offered the visas at the height of Europe’s debt crisis in 2012 to help plug gaping budget deficits. Countries that needed international bailouts - Spain, Ireland, Portugal and Greece among them - were especially desperate for cash to repay creditors, and saw a path to bring in investors while reviving their moribund real estate markets."
• Here’s where the world’s top 0.001% are putting their money, according to wealth experts - "There are about 28,420 centimillionaires globally, largely concentrated in New York City, the Bay Area, Los Angeles, London and Beijing, according to Wrise Wealth Management Singapore. The uber-wealthy live a world apart and their investing strategies also look vastly different from the average investor’s portfolio."
• Meet the private doctor to the wealthy - at $40,000 a year - "Private Medical is at the forefront of a new type of health care for the ultra-wealthy that has taken concierge medicine to a whole new level. The company, founded by Dr. Jordan Shlain, pioneered a highly personalized, all-in-one service that’s more akin to the most sophisticated family offices for investments. The rise of family office-style medical practices reflects the surge in wealth among families worth $100 million or more and growing demand for hyper-personalized, data-driven health care from an aging class of billionaires and millionaires."
• Countries With the Largest Happiness Gains Since 2010 - "The 2024 World Happiness Report continues the mission to quantify, measure, and compare well-being. Its latest findings also include how countries have become happier in the intervening years. We visualize these findings in this chart, which shows the 20 countries that have seen their happiness scores grow the most since 2010."
• A lost astronaut, looted treasure & a hit naked Turk: the 60th Venice Biennale - in pictures - "From the thrice-daily Swan Lake to a tragedy in an asbestos factory, Guardian photographer David Levene went behind the scenes at the ‘Art Olympics’."
• No, Your Spaghetti Doesn’t Have to Be al Dente: 5 Pasta Myths, Debunked - "A veteran food journalist settles some long-simmering disputes on a slippery subject. Truth or myth: Pasta should always be cooked al dente or firm to the tooth. The source of this myth seems to be transcontinental confusion. The American way of serving fully cooked pasta with sauce dolloped on top is different from the Italian way of serving pasta and sauce combined."
• Shogun: A guide to the hit Japanese samurai epic as its finale cuts deep - "Shogun - the razor-sharp, critically-acclaimed samurai epic that's transported viewers back to feudal, war-torn Japan since February, reached its finale on Tuesday."
• Ebook vs paper: which reading medium is better for the environment? - "Ereader makers have taken steps to make digital reading greener, but how sustainable is it?"
• The Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses get video calling, Apple Music & a new style - "Also, the multimodal AI is ready for the public."
• Water extraction & weight of buildings see half of China's cities sink - "Nearly half of China's major cities are sinking because of water extraction and the increasing weight of their rapid expansion, researchers say. Some cities are subsiding rapidly, with one in six exceeding 10mm per year. China's rapid urbanisation in recent decades means far more water is now being drawn up to meet people's needs, scientists say."
• What is Earth Day, when is it & what has it achieved? - "Millions of people across the globe are gathering to mark Earth Day and celebrate the environmental movement. The event began in 1970 in the United States, and is now marked around the world. Earth Day is a global event which aims to highlight the importance of protecting the environment. It takes place every year on 22 April."
• The Met Gala 2024: Everything You Need To Know - "What’s the dress code, who’s hosting, who’s going and how to watch. Guests have been instructed to dress for 'The Garden of Time,' so named after a 1962 short story by J.G. Ballard about an aristocratic couple living in a walled estate with a magical garden."
• What to Know About Victoria Beckham's 50th Birthday - "Posh Spice had a party involving tequila, Tom Cruise, Salma Hayek - and a rare performance by all five Spice Girls."
• Should You Use an Anti-Wrinkle Straw? - "Straws That Don’t Cause Wrinkles. Wait - Straws Cause Wrinkles? Another solution to a problem we didn’t know we had."
• Welcome to Scam World. How Scam Calls & Messages Took Over Our Everyday Lives - "Digital life is cluttered with bogus text messages, spam calls and phishing attempts. You can try to block, encrypt and unsubscribe your way out of it, but you may not succeed."
• E-Commerce & the Influencer Economy - "How internet shopping became choked with junk. When an influencer's follower clicks a link and buys something, the influencer makes money. That's why people on your social media feed are crowing about their 10 favorite Amazon finds or talking about how an expensive gizmo has changed their life. Many influencers have another incentive: Brands pay them to hawk stuff."
• Why Billionaires Are Buying Up Sports Teams - "Soaring team values, investment security, and extreme scarcity make franchise ownership a magnet for magnates, the rare investment capable of making even dumb money look smart. The economics of sports franchise ownership have exploded beyond imagination. The latest status symbol for owners: 80,000 seats and more toilets than you could dream of."
• Elon Musk Wouldn’t Be the First Car Company Founder to Flame Out - "Before there was Elon Musk, there was William Crapo Durant. Billy Durant, as he was known, built one of the world’s biggest makers of horse-drawn carriages, bought control of Buick, co-founded General Motors."
• Rolls-Royce Reveals 'Spirit of Expression' Trio of Bespoke Ultraluxury Cars - "Pick your preferred entry to the upper echelons of swankiness: There's a custom Phantom Extended, a custom Ghost Extended, and a custom Spectre."
• Symphony At Sea: A Glimpse Into LVMH CEO Bernard Arnault's $150 Million Superyacht - "Experience luxury sailing with eco-consciousness on the Symphony Yacht, owned by billionaire Bernard Arnault. A true epitome of style and sustainability, Symphony offers high-performance cruising, strict safety standards, and significant energy efficiency. Discover the perfect blend of luxury and responsibility."
• ‘The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare’ review: Guy Ritchie blows up history - "Henry Cavill kicks ass with one helluva mustache in this outrageous true story."
• AI Detects Mysterious Detail Hidden in Famous Raphael Masterpiece - "Artificial intelligence (AI) can be trained to see details in images that escape the human eye. Now an AI neural network has identified something unusual about a face in a Raphael painting: It wasn't actually painted by Raphael."
• how to use an iphone to locate books - "Can't spot a book on your shelves? Your iPhone will find it. Using your iPhone's Live Text and OCR (optical character recognition) you can locate books even on the most chaotic shelves in seconds. Here's how."
• I Love My Kindle, but I Still Don't Buy eBooks From Amazon - "I can't say I'm a big fan of Amazon, but it's hard to deny that Kindle eReaders are pretty great. Despite my feelings about the company, I have a Kindle Paperwhite. However, I don't buy any ebooks from Amazon—that's the line I draw. Kindles have very good integration with Libby, the app for libraries. It's super easy to browse for books in the Libby app on my phone and nearly instantly send one to my Kindle."
• How Can I Dress to Look More Grown-Up? - "A reader is tired of being mistaken for someone in her early 20s. Our fashion critic offers tips for dressing with sophistication."
• Crafting Shoes Never Meant to Be Walked In - "In Venice, a coterie of craftspeople reinterpret Tod’s driving shoes."
• Indian Godawan Century Single Malt Whiskey takes the best single malt whisky in the world trophy - "Godawan Century single malt whiskey from India tops the score in the single malt whiskey category at the 2024 London Spirits Competition. It was also the highest-scoring product from India. Godawan 100 received a score of 96 points making it the top single malt whiskey in the world."
• TIME100: The Most Influential People of 2024 - "Who are the 100 most influential people in the world? Every year, TIME Magazine has an answer."
• Our Most-Wanted Grail Watches of 2024 (So Far) - "If money is no object, here’s what we’re buying. From Rolex to Patek Philippe, these are our favorite luxury watches priced at $10000 or more that have been released this year."
• A Brief Guide to Who's Who on Taylor Swift's 'Tortured Poets' - "Ex-boyfriends may be alluded to. Travis Kelce, too, fans believe. And some actual poets."
• The week that life in Dubai ground to a halt - "The scenes from Dubai this week seemed apocalyptic to residents who are more used to the tranquil nature of the sunny metropolis in the desert. This city hadn’t witnessed a natural disaster of such magnitude since records began, and the destruction it left behind only became apparent after the storm cleared."
• BØrsen fire: Denmark endures its own Notre Dame devastation - "Alarm bells first rang out early on Tuesday morning as fire ripped through Copenhagen's historic former stock exchange building, Børsen. Within no time at all the inferno had gutted large parts of the 400-year-old structure and toppled the ornate spire known for its distinctive dragons."
• 12 stunning buildings that bring nature inside - "Think of the great Victorian planner Ebenezer Howard, who believed that nature could cure the ills of city life - pollution, disease, and overcrowding. In 1898, he laid out his vision for a 'Garden City,' where even the poorest worker could enjoy green spaces, which were painfully unavailable in his London."
• Armed guards, reparations & the lives of others: Venice Biennale 2024 - review - "There’s less glitz and glamour, more a mood of solemnity and concern at the 60th edition of the Biennale, with revelatory work from Nigeria, Bulgaria and the global south living up to the festival’s provocative subtitle, Foreigners Everywhere..."
• Saudi Arabia’s 105-mile long Line city has been cut a little short - by 103.5 miles - "It was billed as a futuristic, glass-walled city, but was only ever realised in the digital sphere – where it should remain."
• ‘He erased the entire project’ ... the book Stanley Kubrick didn’t want anyone to read to be published - "Half a century since the perfectionist director vowed to block it, a critique that dared to discuss flaws in his films is to be published."
• The Unsolvable Mysteries of Donald & Melania’s Marriage - "'At the end of the day, she could probably make or break him.' But is that because Melania has command of his heart or of his secrets? It’s a mystery, like so much about their marriage and about the former first lady herself."
• 6 reasons to buy an Apple Watch, according to a wearables expert - "My Apple Watch goes with me everywhere. These reasons prove why I wear it every day, and why you should buy one, too."
• The 10 Best Things We Saw at Salone del Mobile - "From an exhibition in a 1940s-era Modernist house to a blood-red sofa, the highlights of Milan's annual design fair."
• Nespresso is launching paper coffee capsules & they're going to change how you drink coffee - "It's the moment we've all been waiting for. Here's everything you need to know."
• Coffee & Chocolate: a Winning Combo - "Both come from the seeds of tropical plants, both contain caffeine that keeps our energy levels up and, together, they increase our concentration: we’re talking about coffee and chocolate, a winning combo in every sense, especially flavour."
• That Little Hole in Your Swiss Army Knife Could Be Essential in Survival Situations - "There’s a reason why awls were included on the earliest versions of the original Swiss Army Knife."
• Legendary Formula 1 driver Michael Schumacher’s watch collection is going on sale - "Eight of Formula One legend Michael Schumacher’s luxury and personalized watches are going up for auction - and they could sell for more than $4.8 million in total. The rare timepieces will be exhibited in New York from May 3 to May 5, the weekend of the Miami Grand Prix, ahead of the auction in Geneva, Switzerland, on May 13, according to auction house Christie’s."
• Every new Patek Philippe watch you need to know about - "Since they created the first Swiss wristwatch for Countess Koscowicz of Hungary in 1868, they have innovated and led the way to create a massive watch industry that chronophiles love."
• The new 62-story tower set to transform New York City’s skyline - "Stretching up 62 stories, a planned office tower at 350 Park Avenue will provide space for more than 6,000 jobs, plus 1.8 million square feet of commercial office space, according to a press release."
• White House Lookalike in London Lists for Nearly £30 Million - "It turns out you don't have to be the president to live in a White House - or even be in the U.S. While less than half the size of the president’s home in Washington, D.C., the massive property in Richmond has nine bedrooms and a rare 3 acres. A home in London with a striking resemblance to the capital's official residence has just hit the market for £29.95 million (US$37.28 million)."
• The world’s best airports for 2024, according to Skytrax - "For the last decade, Singapore’s Changi International Airport and Doha’s Hamad International Airport have been going back and forth, battling over the title of ‘world’s best’. Singapore (SIN) had the title in 2023 and 2020, while Doha (DOH) took the gong in 2022 and 2021."
• World's best photos revealed - "Take a look at this year’s winning images in the Sony World Photography Awards 2024."
• World Press Photo 2024 - global winners - "The global winners in the World Press Photo annual competition have been announced, with Mohammed Salem winning world press photo of the year. The winners were selected from 24 regional winners and there were also six honourable mentions and two special mentions this year."
• What to see at the 2024 Venice Biennale - "This week sees the opening of the Venice Biennale, an 8-month-long festival of art and culture staged every other year. With the main event running from April 20 to November 24 2024, here’s our pick of what to see if you’re headed to Venice."
• What to know about Trump's hush-money trial - "Donald Trump's first criminal trial is now firmly under way, with a full jury sworn in on Thursday."
• Meta steps up AI battle with OpenAI and Google with release of Llama 3 - "Tech firm released early versions of its latest large language model and a real-time image generator as it tries to catch up to OpenAI."
• What is bitcoin halving & will it affect the price? - "Process has coincided with a rise in price in the past and is due to take place again on Saturday."
• Seven countries now generate 100% of their electricity from renewable energy - "Albania, Bhutan, Nepal, Paraguay, Iceland, Ethiopia and the Democratic Republic of Congo produced more than 99.7 per cent of the electricity they consumed using geothermal, hydro, solar or wind power. Scientists say we have reached an ‘irreversible tipping point’ that will see fossil fuels phased out."
• Prince Harry confirms he is now a US resident - "Paperwork filed shows the royal has informed British authorities that he has moved and is now ‘usually resident’ in the United States."
• The cafe where almost nothing has changed for a century - "Nearly a century old, Cafe Lion, one of Tokyo's last 'masterpiece cafes' discourages socializing and forbids mobile phones. The cafe has more than 10,000 classical music CDs and records."
• Your Rimowa Suitcase Can Now Make Espresso (Sort of) - "The German maison added its signature grooves to La Marzocco’s Linea Mini espresso maker."
• The Best MagSafe Accessories For Your iPhone - "Magnetic phone accessories include more than stick-on battery packs - though those are useful, too."
• Rome in Italy took top spot in a list of the best cities to be explored by foot - "This European capital city has been named the most walkable city in the whole world."
• Shock of the old: 11 transport fantasies that never got off the ground - from jetpacks to swan-powered paragliders - "From Leonardo da Vinci to the engineers of Bell Aerosystems, some of our finest minds have devoted themselves to finding a better form of travel. Still, anyone can have an off day ..."
• 4 Best Laser Printers of 2024 - "Reviews by Wirecutter." Printers are annoying. All of them. But if you want to keep the annoyance to a minimum, we recommend a laser printer: Not only do laser models print sharp text and crisp graphics, but they also run more reliably than inkjets, and they won’t clog if they sit unused for weeks between jobs. The best laser printer is the powerful, versatile HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M283fdw. It’s easy to set up and use, and it produces great-looking results both in color and in black and white.
• Chaos in Dubai as UAE records heaviest rainfall in 75 years - "Some areas recording more than 250 mm (around 10 inches) of precipitation in fewer than 24 hours, the state’s media office said in a statement Wednesday. Flights were canceled, traffic came to a halt and schools closed."
• Amsterdam bans construction of new hotels as a way to fight overtourism - "A new hotel in Amsterdam can only be built if another hotel closes, if the number of sleeping places doesn’t increase, and if the new hotel will be better – for example, more sustainable."
• Hit-and-run tourism is tearing the heart out of Florence - there is a better way - "As I learned from managing Michelangelo’s David, visitors can be nudged away from the joyless in-and-out mission for selfies and souvenirs."
• Six weeks, 969 million voters, 2,600 parties: India’s mammoth election explained - "The world’s most populous country prepares to go to the polls, with Narendra Modi’s BJP the frontrunner in vote that ends on 1 June."
• Goodbye cod, hello herring: why putting a different fish on your dish will help the planet - "In the first of a new series, we look at why people reject so much of the bountiful catches from our seas in favour of the same few species, mostly imported - and how to change that."
• 10 Of The Best German Cars In History - "From producing the first-ever automobile to giving us some of the most legendary internal combustion engine machines, Germany has the richest and most celebrated automotive industry. The country is still Europe's biggest contributor to the automotive world, with Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, and Volkswagen continuing to push the boundaries with new technologies and advanced engineering."
• Hugh Grant settles court claim against Sun publisher for ‘enormous sum’ - "Actor had accused publisher of unlawful information-gathering in case that was due to go to trial alongside Prince Harry next year."
• Gene Tierney & the pitfalls of being 'the most beautiful woman in movie history' - "The 1940s film star was worshipped for her looks - but they were also a poisoned chalice when it came to her career and legacy. Nearly a century on, has the way we consider beauty changed all that much?"
• Partying with an 8ft pink panther: Ibiza in the 70s & 80s - in pictures - "The Spanish photographer Oriol Maspons is known for his reportage, portraiture, fashion and advertising work in the 1950s and 60s. But from the late 1960s to the late 1980s he would holiday in Ibiza, where he took pictures for pleasure. His humorous and playful photographs of the island’s beachgoers and clubbers disclose the new attitudes to nudity, sexuality and freedom of expression in the post-Franco era."
• French Chateau, Once Owned by the Rothschild Family & the King of Morocco, Selling for €425 Million - "Château d'Armainvilliers is a timber-framed, 100-room mansion standing on 2500 acres."
• Donald Trump's criminal cases, in one place - "Donald Trump is the first former president in US history to face criminal charges, and with his third presidential bid under way for 2024, the stakes are high for both him and the country. Catch up on what you need to know about Trump’s four indictments, including key evidence, charges and what’s next in the legal process."
• The Biden Guide to Dressing Younger - "Though much has been made of the president's age, his tailoring tells another story. There are lessons to be learned here."
• 2 Warren Buffett Stocks to Hold Forever - "There's nothing wrong with looking to the Oracle of Omaha for guidance. Below are two Buffett stocks that investors can feel comfortable holding on to forever."
• Year’s worth of rain plunges Dubai underwater - "A year’s worth of rain unleashed immense flash flooding in Dubai Tuesday as roads turned into rivers and rushing water inundated homes and businesses."
• Why Heat Pumps Are the Future & How Your Home Could Use One - "The highly efficient devices are the darlings of the environmental movement. Here’s why."
• Hawaii’s ‘Stairway to Heaven’ to be torn down over tourist misbehavior - "Haiku Stairs: Hawaii attraction to be removed following bad tourist behavior. A picturesque staircase leading to a Hawaiian beauty spot is being torn down as tourists continued to access the off-limits site."
• Meghan, Duchess of Sussex unveils first product from American Riviera Orchard - "Meghan, Duchess of Sussex has unveiled the first product from her new lifestyle brand American Riviera Orchard, sending jars of strawberry jam to influencers and friends."
• Give up lie-ins & buy an eye mask: how to get better sleep - "From simple lifestyle changes to choosing the right bedding and gadgets that can help."
• An Ode to the Pilot G2, the Greatest Pen on the Planet - "There are nicer pens and cheaper ones, too. But none are as noteworthy as Pilot’s retractable rollerball."
• A Beloved Copenhagen Cafe Gets Serious About Dinner - "The chef Frederik Bille Brahe has transformed the Apollo Bar & Kantine into his version of a fine dining restaurant, and celebrated with a meal for his family and collaborators."
• Copenhagen's historic stock exchange in flames - "Denmark's historic old stock exchange building in the centre of Copenhagen has been engulfed by fire."
• Trump, at Fund-Raiser, Says He Wants Immigrants From ‘Nice’ Countries - "At rallies, Donald Trump frequently laments migrants from a list of countries from Africa, Asia and the Middle East as he stokes fears around the surge at the border. Former President Donald J. Trump lamented that people were not immigrating to the United States from 'nice' countries 'like Denmark.'"
• How the super-rich store their supercars - "Underfloor heating, custom lighting, $385,000 TVs. For the super-rich car enthusiast, the humble garage - traditionally a utilitarian lock-up and object of the suburban dream that was cut off from the rest of the home - has become prized real estate, where drivers can not only keep their cars but commune with them alongside like-minded friends."
• Paris 2024: How is France preparing for the Olympics & Paralympics? - "The Olympic torch is being lit in Greece on Tuesday, ahead of its journey to Paris for the start of the Games on 26 July. Security has become a major concern for the French government, and plans for the opening ceremony are being reconsidered. The summer Olympics are from 26 July to 11 August, with 10,500 athletes competing in 329 events."
• Rust trial: How events unfolded after fatal shooting on Alec Baldwin film set - "Cinematographer Halyna Hutchins died on the set of Western film Rust in New Mexico in 2021, after a gun held by Hollywood actor Alec Baldwin fired a live round while he was rehearsing a scene."
• Fancy a nose job while your cat has surgery? - "Turkish clinics are offering cut-price treatments from rhinoplasty to tummy tucks along with pet procedures to entice cash-strapped Britons."
• Undergarments for the Ultrawealthy - "Cadolle, a maker of corsets favored by designers like John Galliano and labels like Dior, is known for custom underpinnings that can cost thousands of dollars."
• A.I. Made These Movies Sharper. Critics Say It Ruined Them - "Machine-learning technologies are being used in film restoration for new home video releases. But some viewers strongly dislike the results."
• Frank Sinatra Gave Two Watches to Tony Bennett. Now Both Are Heading to Auction - "Julien's Auctions is holding a two-day sale dedicated to the late musician on April 18 and 19."
• Middle East crisis: visual guide to Iran’s attack on Israel - "Iran launched drones and missiles towards Israel, most of which were intercepted by Israel and its allies."
• World’s busiest airports: There’s a new No. 2 - "For the first time, Dubai takes the No. 2 ranking, according to Airports Council International’s preliminary rankings for 2023, released on Monday."
• Why revealing outfits are getting people into trouble on airplanes - "Fashion that doesn’t fly: The turbulent issue of airline dress code policies."
• Molly the magpie reunited with 'best friend' after public outcry - "An Australian magpie has been returned to a Queensland couple after an intense debate that gripped the nation."
• Rare lunar event to shed light on Stonehenge’s links to the moon - "The rising and setting of the sun at Stonehenge, especially during the summer and winter solstices, continues to evoke joy, fascination and religious devotion. Archaeologists and astronomers to study Wiltshire site’s lesser understood connection to the moon."
• The truth about protein: how to get enough - at every age - "We need protein to build muscle, produce hormones, regulate mood and appetite, and strengthen bones. But how much, and what kind, should you eat every day?"
• Life without Bruce & Brandon: Shannon Lee on losing her superstar father & brother - "How do you survive when the two most important men in your life die at a tragically young age? The daughter of martial arts hero, Bruce Lee, describes what kept her going - and how she is preserving the family legacy."
• This European city has been named the world's most walkable - "These are the ten most walkable cities in the world: Munich; Milan; Warsaw; Helsinki; Paris; Tokyo; Madrid; Oslo; Copenhagen & Amsterdam."
• Five collectors pick the vintage watches they would most love to see reissued - "In fashion, the next thing is the best thing. But the backbone of the Swiss watch industry is heritage, which explains why vintage reissues make up the bulk of new releases."
• Review: Nespresso Vertuo Creatista takes at-home coffee to the next level - for a steep cost - "Offering six different coffee sizes of many different varieties with adjustable heat and froth levels for the milk steamer, it is the most premium and feature-rich Nespresso Vertuo model yet. Each pod has a barcode on it that tells the machine how much water to put through and exactly how to create the best coffee for that type, consistently, every time."
• Singer Reimagined Divetrack: The World’s Best Mechanical Divers’ Watch - Bar None! - "With the Divetrack, Singer Reimagined has revolutionized mechanical dive watches: the Divetrack is a purpose-built tool for divers. Its highly legible chronograph functionality can track time underwater, time until next dive, and safe time from last dive until flying."
• ‘Miraculous’: exquisite paintings saved from Notre Dame fire back on view - "Five years after the inferno at the Paris cathedral, a new exhibition shows the rescued art treasures."
• 5 Of Europe’s Most Underrated UNESCO World Heritage Sites - "As World Heritage Day on 18th April approaches, the spotlight turns on renowned landmarks across the globe. UNESCO sites like Stonehenge in the UK, Pompei in Italy and the Acropolis in Greece get no shortage of visitors. But there are plenty of designated destinations in Europe that still fly under the radar. Here are some of the best in Europe from remote archaeological wonders to untamed natural landscapes."
• Which countries are home to the most educated people in Europe? - "The proportion of the population with a higher education degree is higher in Nordic and Baltic countries, with women overall being the most educated."
• Wafer-thin, stretchy & strong as steel: could ‘miracle’ material graphene finally transform our world? - "The material, discovered in 2004, was meant to be revolutionary. But only now is the technology coming of age."
• Saudis Scale Back Ambition for $1.5 Trillion Desert Project Neom - "Humiliation for Saudi Arabia as it's 'forced to scale back $1.5trillion plans for 106-mile-long city The Line to just 1.5miles with workers already being laid off at desert construction site.'"
• Your Vision Can Predict Dementia 12 Years Before Diagnosis, Study Finds - "The eyes can reveal a lot about the health of our brain. Indeed, problems with the eyes can be one of the earliest signs of cognitive decline. Our latest study shows that a loss of visual sensitivity can predict dementia 12 years before it is diagnosed."
• Outbreak of mpox caused by Monkeypox virus clade I in the Democratic Republic of the Congo - "Despite this increase in cases, the overall risk from this outbreak in the DRC for the general population in the EU/EEA and for MSM with multiple sexual partners in the EU/EEA remains low."
• iOS 18 Will Add These New Features to Your iPhone - "iOS 18 may introduce an AI-powered browsing assistant in Safari. iOS 18 may have new accessibility features tied to VoiceOver, Live Speech, and Text Size. AirPods Pro are expected to get a new hearing aid mode with iOS 18. iOS 18 may have an updated Freeform app with a new 'Scenes' feature."
• In death, 3 decades after his trial verdict, O.J. Simpson still reflects America’s racial divides - "For many people old enough to remember O.J. Simpson’s murder trial, his 1995 exoneration was a defining moment in their understanding of race, policing and justice. Nearly three decades later, it still reflects the different realities of white and Black Americans."
• Monaco named best place in world to live but it isn't cheap - "A tiny little European country has been named the best place to live in the world, but it isn't cheap. Monaco is a city-state on the French Riviera, bordered by France on three sides and the sea on the other. It is home to almost 40,000 people."
• Farewell, Adidas Sambas - what is next in footwear? - "The Adidas Samba trainer was declared dead in the water this week, after the prime minister, Rishi Sunak, was pictured wearing a pair. At least for now, many people will want to give their footwear a cabinet reshuffle. So what other shoes can fill the void?"
• The Best Gear for Travel in 2024 - "What does it mean to travel well? We’d say that along with traveling safely (of course), traveling well involves avoiding hassle, carrying a single bag (if possible), and bringing only the necessities."
• The Stylish Man’s Everyday Carry: 10 Items You Need - "There’s a satisfying feeling when you’re prepared for anything. It’s nice to know, confidently, that you’ve got everything you need for the day ahead, and even if a problem occurs, you’ve got the essentials to sort it. Whether carrying on your person or stashing in your bag, these are the items no man should leave the house without."
• Beautiful UK island is one Europe's 'most underrated' with incredible beaches - "Barra in the Outer Hebrides has been crowned one of the top 20 best islands in Europe, taking 17th spot in new rankings from Big 7 Travel. With its Caribbean-worthy beaches, it's not difficult to see why Barra has been such a hit with the travel insiders."
• Secluded ‘crown jewel’ seaside destination named the UK’s best white sand beach - "The UK has white sandy beaches good enough to rival some of the world's most famous, from hotspots in the Maldives to Hawaii. The country's best is as secluded as it is spectacular. Taking the crown is Holkham Beach, the seaside gem of the North Norfolk Coast."
• Why Scotland’s ‘ghost’ whisky distilleries are coming back to life - "Everything you need to know about whisky and its umbilical bond to Scottish identity can be found in Carol Ann Duffy’s poem 'Drams.' 'Barley, water, peat, weather, landscape, history; Malted. Swallowed neat.'"
• Alain Delon at His Very Best: Ravishing, Yes, but Also Destabilizing - "The French star is the subject of a series at Film Forum focusing on movies from the ’60s and ’70s, when he became an international sensation."
• Roberto Cavalli, flamboyant Italian fashion designer, dies aged 83 - "Designer launched own label in 1970 with leather then denim innovations, while his exotic and flashy style found celebrity fans in the 90s."
• Apple health study proves anybody can run a marathon - given enough time - "For five years, Apple has been running a Heart and Movement Study using the Apple Watch, and its researchers have now examined the training and cardio exercises that marathon runners do."
• 7 Rookie Mistakes People Make When Brewing Pour-Over Coffee - "Is your pour-over coffee bitter or watered-down? These are the reasons why."
• OJ Simpson’s life from NFL stardom to legal jeopardy - in pictures - "The NFL player was a star until he was charged with murder, and after his acquittal in 1995 he faced further legal troubles in the ensuing decades."
• OJ Simpson obituary (1947-2024) - "Former American footballer and actor who was acquitted of the murder of his former wife, Nicole Brown, and her companion, Ron Goldman, in the 1995 ‘trial of the century’."
• Alexei Navalny’s memoir due to be published posthumously in October - "The Russian opposition politician, who died in prison in February, completed an autobiography which will come out later this year."
• The long haul: what to wear to watch a marathon - "It’s the season for marathons and half marathons. For spectators, keeping comfortable - and stylish - can also be a real slog. Our style editor is here to inspire."
• Shock of the old: 10 pairs of filthy, fetishistic & fashionable shoes - "Much historical footwear looks like torture - and extreme and unstable designs are still being made. Why can’t we all just be comfortable?"
• billionaire commissioned Vacheron Constantin to create the world’s most complicated watch - "With 63 different complications, 2,877 parts, and 31 hands, it took the watchmaker a year just to assemble the multi million dollar timepiece."
• The Onyx Boox Palma is the coolest gadget I've used in 2024 - "At my workstation, for workout sessions, and for reading, the Onyx Boox Palma is my screen companion. The Onyx Boox Palma offers a 6.13-inch E-ink Carta 1200 panel with a resolution of 824 x 1648 pixels and two-tone front lights. There's a light sensor at the top that makes visual adjustments based on the ambient light. The back panel has a beautiful, grippy finish that I've never come across on any other device."
• 21 best Apple CarPlay apps every driver needs - "These are the 21 apps all CarPlay users should know about for their next road trip."
• Google’s AI blunder over images reveals a much bigger problem - "Google apologizes for ‘missing the mark’ after Gemini generated racially diverse Nazis."
• ‘I’m a longtime devotee’: Rishi Sunak apologises for wearing Adidas Samba trainers - "Prime minister defends his fondness for the shoe, while critics and social media users say he has ruined it for everyone. Rishi Sunak has apologised to all fans of Adidas Samba trainers after being accused of ruining their credibility when he was pictured in a pair. The prime minister said he had been wearing the German sportswear trainer 'for many years' and was a 'longtime devotee' of the brand."
• The highs & lows of an It-shoe: how Adidas Sambas took over the world - "Rishi Sunak may have rendered them uncool this week, but the trainer has risen to ubiquity in the past few years. So what is it about this fairly simple design that is so widely loved?"
• I swapped the gym for Schwarzenegger’s two-move bodyweight workout - "It showed you can build muscle without weights."
• Neuroscience Says 4 Brain Workouts Will Improve Your Memory & Make You Mentally Stronger - "Brain exercises to keep your mind sharp and strong are just as important as physical exercise."
• Warren Buffett Says He Prefers A McDonald's Burger Over A $100 Meal - "Despite his wealth, the legendary investor and Berkshire Hathaway Inc. CEO lives a frugal lifestyle, preferring the simple pleasures of a McDonald’s hamburger over extravagant dining. His Typical Lunch Is A 'Quarter-Pounder With Fries'."
• Truong My Lan: Vietnamese billionaire sentenced to death for $44bn fraud - "It was the most spectacular trial ever held in Vietnam, befitting one of the greatest bank frauds the world has ever seen."
• Pompeii: Breathtaking new paintings found at ancient city - "Stunning artworks have been uncovered in a new excavation at Pompeii, the ancient Roman city buried in an eruption from Mount Vesuvius in AD79. Archaeologists say the frescos are among the finest to be found in the ruins of the ancient site."
• travel agents on 20 ways to book a sustainable & sensational summer holiday - "Keen to get away? Here is how to find a great deal, pick the perfect destination and support the local community. Travel agents share their tips for the most affordable, sustainable and memorable trips."
• World’s coal power capacity rises despite climate warnings - "Increase of 2% last year driven by plant expansion in China and slowdown in US and Europe closures."
• Great Barrier Reef suffering ‘most severe’ coral bleaching on record as footage shows damage 18 metres down - "Marine researcher ‘devastated’ by widespread event that is affecting coral species usually resistant to bleaching."
• Mattel launches new, less ‘intimidating’ version of Scrabble - "Instead of competing, players collaborate to complete goal cards, and there are helper cards if assistance is required. The aim is that the new game mode 'brings people together'."
• Monte Carlo Beer wins prestigious gold medal in Frankfurt - "Monte Carlo Beer’s latest creation, their very own alcohol free blonde ale has won the gold medal of the Frankfurt International Trophy 2024. The MCB Alcohol-Free Blonde ale stood out among 696 samples from 49 different countries, which were tried by 511 international tasters as part of what was a very fierce competition, earning a remarkable score of 86/100, and subsequently the highly sought after gold medal."
• Mika HÄkkinen’s very special McLaren to go on auction in Monaco - "Two-time Formula 1 world champion and resident of the Principality Mika Häkkinen is parting ways with his exceedingly rare McLaren P1 test car, which is set to go under the hammer at Bonhams’ ‘Les Grandes Marques à Monaco’ auction on Friday, May 10."
• Patek Philippe Does Double Denim - "Introducing The World Time Date 5330G And Nautilus Chronograph 5980G. And the new Aquanaut Travel Time 5164G also seems to be wearing jeans."
• 2024 Presidential Greatness Project Expert Survey - "In historians' Presidents Day survey, Biden vs. Trump is not a close call."
• Watches & Wonders 2024: The Boldest, Most Exciting New Timepieces - "Here are the highlights from the world's biggest watch releases of the year."
• They Inherited Billions Upon Billions: Meet America’s Richest Heirs - "One of them, Rob Walton, just led a family group to bid $4.65 billion for the Denver Broncos NFL team. Here are the other heirs that rank the highest on Forbes’ list."
• Look of the Week: The UK Prime Minister just ‘ruined’ this classically cool sneaker - "A video of British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak wearing Adidas Samba shoes has caused a furor online. It’s been deemed the end of Adidas Sambas. Once hailed as the favorite shoe of Harry Styles, Kaia Gerber, Bella Hadid, Paul Mescal and even Rihanna, just to name a few, it’s now apparently all over for the 1950s three-striped sneaker. Why? Because UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was seen wearing a pair."
• Swapping red meat for herring, sardines & anchovies could save 750,000 lives, study suggests - "Switch could also cut prevalence of disability linked to diet-related disease and help tackle the climate crisis, researchers found."
• Fear of the unknown: are you more sensitive to uncertainty than others? - "Our intolerance for uncertainty exists on a spectrum, but some people have higher - and more debilitating – levels of the trait."
• Why These New Yorkers’ Favorite Soccer Team Is in Denmark: They Own It - "A year and a half ago, a group of roughly 140 people, many of them New Yorkers, pooled some cash to buy a struggling Danish soccer team called Akademisk Boldklub, also known as A.B. The club plays in an unassuming suburb of Copenhagen called Gladsaxe and only draws a couple hundred fans to its games."
• Where You Can See the Next Total Solar Eclipse, in 2026. Fjords, Pharaohs or Koalas? Time to Plan for Your Next Eclipse - "If you can’t get enough of totality, or missed out this time, you’ll have three more chances in the next four years in destinations like Iceland, Spain, Egypt and Australia."
• Fourth Bridget Jones film to hit screens in 2025 - "Renee Zellweger joined by Leo Woodall for Mad About The Boy. As Bridget Jones herself said 'everyone knows diaries are just full of crap', but the ones dictating her inner monologues also make wonderful films."
• A 97-Year-Old Movie Already Proved Ridley Scott's Napoleon Was Doomed From The Start - "Abel Gance's 1927 epic Napoléon provides the clearest evidence that Ridley Scott's Napoleon movie was never going to work."
• Peter Higgs obituary - "Theoretical physicist whose name was attached to the Higgs boson, a sign of the mechanism underlying the structure of atoms."
• Mercedes Built This Ultra-Rare Coupe With McLaren. Now It Could Be Yours - "It is one of just 10 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Crown Edition variants commissioned as gifts for Persian Gulf royalty."
• Guarding Royal Families for $1,000 a Day: Inside Executive Protection Jobs - "How three women trained to work in jobs protecting prominent families and ultra-high-net-worth individuals."
• How to tame notifications on iOS - "Here’s a quick primer on how iOS handles notifications and your options for taking control of them. There are two places where your notifications can live on iOS: in recent notifications or the Notification Center."
• Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 review: best-sounding noise-cancelling earbuds - "Quality earbuds with improved Bluetooth, great battery life, good controls and future-proofed tech."
• Total solar eclipse over Mexico, US & Canada - in pictures - "The moon blocks the sun along a path that cuts across several countries. If you missed today’s total solar eclipse just wait ... until 2044."
• Stunning images of solar eclipse that transfixed North America - "Millions of people across Mexico, the US and Canada looked to the skies on Monday to witness a total solar eclipse carve a narrow path of darkness across the continent."
• Tenth consecutive monthly heat record alarms and confounds climate scientists - "If the anomaly does not stabilise by August, ‘the world will be in uncharted territory’, says climate expert."
• Some of the most beautiful & extravagant watches out in 2024 - "Thousands of watch afficionados are descending on Geneva, Switzerland this week for the annual Watches and Wonders fair, where 54 watchmaking houses including Rolex, Patek Philippe, Cartier, Chopard and Chanel will unveil their latest creations."
• The World’s Thinnest Mechanical Watch, the New 1.70mm Bulgari Octo Finissimo Ultra COSC (incl. video) - "Bulgari reclaims its title with the world’s thinnest mechanical watch just 1.70mm thick."
• Elon Musk predicts superhuman AI will be smarter than people next year - "His claims come with a caveat that shortages of training chips and growing demand for power could limit plans in the near term."
• Private jet flight attendant lifts the lid on how the 'other half' REALLY live - as she opens up about her life in the skies catering to the ultra-wealthy.
• The vorfreude secret: 30 zero-effort ways to fill your life with joy - "How can you change your life for the better today? Learn not just to appreciate happiness - but to anticipate it."
• The Conversation at 50: Why the paranoid thriller is more relevant than ever - "Released between the Godfathers, Francis Ford Coppola's 1974 film was a passion project - and its tale of a surveillance expert disturbed by what he hears hits even harder in 2024."
• 2024 solar eclipse: A guide on where & how to watch it - "What to expect during Monday's total solar eclipse."
• Great apes threatened by mining for electric vehicle batteries - "A surge of mining in some African countries for materials used to make green energy technologies puts gorillas, chimpanzees and bonobos at risk. In total, 180,000 great apes - just over one-third of the entire continental population - could be threatened by mining activities, the researchers found. The West African countries Liberia, Sierra Leone, Mali and Guinea saw the largest overlap between ape populations and mining sites."
• Larry David, Philosopher King - "Larry David's long-running show was hilarious, but it also revolved around a complex view of modern philosophy. 'Curb' is full of observations about societal strictures that might otherwise go unspoken. Rules such as: You tiptoe at night; you always accept your friend’s invitation to tour her new house; you never steal from roadside memorials or caskets; you don’t go over your caviar allotment at a dinner party; you ask to split the check when you eat out with friends."
• Happy 20th Anniversary, Gmail. I'm Sorry I'm Leaving You - "There is no end of theories for why the internet feels so crummy these days. Our digital lives have become one shame closet after another. A few months ago, I euthanized that Gmail account. I have more than a million unread messages in my inbox. Most of what's there is junk. But not all of it. I was missing too much that I needed to see."
• Email Is Slow & Creates Distance. That's Why It's Great - "Perhaps email will never again be the preferred form of digital communication, but much like vinyl records, it may be able to provide a pleasant ritual that slows down the flood of notifications, if only for a moment."
• 'Greenest ever Games': how the Paris Olympics hopes to inspire a new era of global sporting events - "Organisers say they are setting a precedent by using existing or temporary venues for most events and focusing on low-carbon building for the rest."
• How to tell if an image is AI-generated - "Surplus limbs, mis-matched patterns and blurred letters can all be signs content was created or edited by artificial intelligence."
• Cape Town's digital nomads: Where idyllic lifestyle clashes with local needs - "Digital nomads - the laptop-wielding new generation of remote workers - have found themselves at the sharp end of a debate in the South African city of Cape Town about whether or not they are good for the more permanent residents."
• Twin Peaks' Agent Cooper: How TV's strangest detective was born - "In exclusive archive BBC interviews the creators of the 90s TV series talk about their unique vision - and how the eccentric character at its centre, Special Agent Dale Cooper, was based on the director David Lynch's own personality."
• 10 remarkable artists' homes & gardens that are also museums - "From Dalí's surreal home to Derek Jarman's seaside cottage and Frida Kahlo's Casa Azul, these homes and gardens are shrines to their extraordinary owners."
• Apple MacBook Air M3 review: the laptop to beat - "Faster chip, tremendous battery life, premium touch points and a price cut make the best even better."
• Top 10 luxury watch brands 2024 - "The leading names in heritage, craftsmanship and quality. The best luxury watch brands are synonymous with quality, craftsmanship, prestige and exclusivity. These names are known for elevating watches from simple time-telling tools to intricate works of art that routinely sell for thousands instead of a few hundred."
• 5 Top Picks From 'Exclusive Timepieces' Auction By Monaco Legend Group - "Few houses manage to offer such consistently impressive and rare wristwatches as Monaco Legend Group, and this undeniably remains the case for the upcoming 'Exclusive Timepieces' auction held in Monaco on 20th and 21st of April."
• Rolex Batman vs Rolex Batgirl: What's the difference between them? - "Rolex Batman vs Rolex Batgirl watches are slightly different. Rolex's GMT Master II collection is comprised of two iconic timepieces that have captured the attention of watch enthusiasts and comic book fans alike. The first of these is affectionately known as the 'Batman,' and draws inspiration from the Dark Knight himself."
• Here's How Long It Takes A Cat To Forget A Person, According To An Expert - "You've probably heard the tales of cats' incredible homing instincts, their ability to remember their names, and where they left their last meal. Is this routine, or do cats actually boast an impressive memory? Let's dive into what an expert has to say."
• Finding Your Soulmate, the Ancient Greek Way - "True love is not discovered all of a sudden, at first sight, but rather, it's the product of immense work, constant attention, and sacrifice."
• How to Find Solar Eclipse Glasses & Spot Fake Ones - "Here's everything you need to know about solar eclipse glasses, from where to buy them to how to spot fake ones."
• Martha Stewart Has 'Never-Ending Curiosity' (& a Few Regrets) - "This year I made time to grow the best vegetables, monster vegetables, that I've ever grown in my life. My houses are never done."
• The 25 best spy movies of all time, ranked - "It's not all shaken martinis and gimmicky gadgets."
• The 25 Top Film Noir Movies Of All Time - "The themes and tropes of the most famous film noirs created a blueprint for many of the crime dramas and thrillers we watch today."
• 6 Innovative Timepieces Launching At Watches & Wonders Geneva - "Urwerk, Hautlence, Norqain, Trilobe, Raymond Weil and Speake Marin are among the independent watch brands that will present unique new timepieces."
• Why Time Is Running Out Across the Maldives' Lovely Little Islands - "Global tourism brought a modern economy to the country's thousand islands. For many Maldivians, the teeming capital beckons."
• Decluttering tips for collectors & hoarders - how to tackle uncontrollable clutter - "If your love of stuff has tipped over into extreme clutter, our guide can help."
• The world's best airports for food & drink - "There's no more captive consumer than a traveler caught between airport security and the departure gate, which is why Food & Wine’s 2024 roundup of the world's best airports for food and drink got our mouths watering."
• A23a: Tracking the world's biggest iceberg as it drifts towards oblivion - "The world's biggest iceberg - more than twice the size of Greater London - is on the move. After a few weeks loitering on the fringes of Antarctica, it's begun to drift at pace once more."
• King Charles is opening up Balmoral Castle for the first time - "King Charles III is opening the doors of Balmoral Castle this summer for the most intimate tours ever permitted around the British royal family's much-loved private Scottish home."
• Ibiza locals living in cars as party island sees rents soar - "An irony of Ibiza's housing crisis is that it is now threatening to undermine the same tourism industry that is so widely blamed for causing the rental rises in the first place."
• The complex mix that makes bacon taste so good - "It's the chemistry of the meat, the chemistry of the smoking and the chemistry of the cooking that combine to make bacon smell and taste irresistible. The cell membranes of the muscle tissue contain fatty acids that disintegrate during cooking to yield a bouquet of flavourful compounds like aldehydes, furans, and ketones."
• Woody Allen, Reputation Bruised, Finds Muted Reception to 50th Film - "'Coup de Chance,' a milestone, is being released in the United States after opening in Europe months ago."
• Larry David's Rule Book for How (Not) to Live in Society - "'Curb Your Enthusiasm' Was Larry David's Book of Manners. He's a wild, monomaniacal jerk. He's also our greatest interpreter of American manners since Emily Post."
• Oura Ring launches genius new feature to take on Apple Watch - "The health and fitness tracker is rapidly developing new features as a part of a total wellness integration. The new Symptom Radar uses inputs from the Oura ring to distinguish tiny bodily changes which might indicate a user is under the weather or at risk for getting sick."
• Gaza war: Where does Israel get its weapons? - "Western governments are coming under growing pressure to halt arms sales to Israel over how it is waging the war against Hamas in the Gaza Strip."
• JetZero: Groundbreaking ‘blended-wing’ demonstrator plane cleared to fly - "A seismic shake-up is about to take place. An entirely new aircraft shape has been cleared to take off into California skies. The basic design of commercial airplanes hasn’t changed much in the past 60 years. Modern airliners like the Boeing 787 and the Airbus A350 have the same general shape as the Boeing 707 and the Douglas DC-8, which were built in the late 1950s and solidified the 'tube and wing' form factor that is still in use today."
• Zurich named as the most liveable city in europe - "Switzerland's largest city beat out the 82 other cities that were surveyed across the EU thanks to its super high quality of life, the European Free Trade Association, the UK, the Western Balkans and Türkiye, based on answers from over 71,000 residents."
• How Exercise Strengthens Your Brain - "Physical activity improves cognitive and mental health in all sorts of ways. Studies show that immediately after a bout of physical activity, people perform better on tests of working memory and other executive functions. This may be in part because movement increases the release of neurotransmitters in the brain, most notably epinephrine and norepinephrine. Here's why, and how to reap the benefits."
• Welcome to Venice. That'll Be 5 Euros - "Starting this month, tourists intending to visit the city on busy dates will be required to register on a website, and those coming for a single day will have to pay an entry fee. Starting on April 25, and for another 29 days scattered mostly around national holidays and weekends through mid-July, day trippers to the historic part of Venice will have to pay 5 euros, about $5.40, a measure that city officials hope will encourage people to come during less busy times."
• Angelina Jolie alleges 'history' of Brad Pitt's physical abuse prior to 2016 plane ride in new Miraval lawsuit filing - "Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt's fight over the French winery they once owned together is coming to a head and reigniting older conflicts, as new legal documents allege a 'history of physical abuse of Jolie' on the part of Pitt prior to their fateful plane ride in 2016."
• Traveling Light: How to Pack a Carry-on - "Should you fold or roll your clothes? Is a duffel bag better than a backpack or a bag with wheels? Packing light can also be a creative endeavor that helps build excitement for your upcoming getaway. And with fees for checked bags on the rise, it makes economic sense to master the art of packing a carry-on. Here are some tips on how to save space - and your sanity."
• Don't forget your Tabasco! Over 30 little travel tricks that make all the difference - "From eye masks to flannels, AirTags to paddling pools, our travel, fashion and beauty experts share their hard-won hacks, gadgets and tips."
• If costs force Google to charge for AI, competitors will cheer - "AI is not only scarily expensive to run, it is also antithetical to the advertising that is Google's bread and butter. Google search prints money. Generative AI burns money. What happens when an unstoppable force hits an immovable object?"
• Monaco expects 10,000 Monegasques by 2025 - "It won’t be long before the number of Monegasques will break the barrier of 10,000. According to IMSEE, the Monegasque statistical agency, there were 9790 Monegasques (out of a total of 39,000 inhabitants) in 2023. In the past year, 104 Monegasques were added, which is an increase of 1.1%. At this rate, the symbolic limit should be reached by 2025."
• Prostate cancer cases worldwide likely to double by 2040, analysis finds - "Largest study of its kind predicts 85% increase in deaths from the disease in same period as more men live longer."
• Muhammad Ali's 'Thrilla in Manila' shorts expected to smash auction records - "Bids for trunks from 1975 fight against Joe Frazier could reach $6m in online Sotheby's auction."
• Can We Engineer Our Way Out of the Climate Crisis? - "On a windswept Icelandic plateau, an international team of engineers and executives is powering up an innovative machine designed to alter the very composition of Earth's atmosphere."
• Is It Healthier to Eat Your Vegetables Before Your Carbs? - "'Nutrient sequencing' is said to regulate blood sugar. We asked experts if the science holds up. Since proteins, fats and fiber-rich vegetables take longer to digest than simple carbohydrates, saving carbs for last can help people feel fuller for longer."
• Meet the world's WEALTHIEST women - "Amazon founder Jeff Bezos's ex-wife MacKenzie Scott lands the fifth spot in Forbes' list of richest ladies after giving away more than $17.3 BILLION (but her fortune PALES in comparison to the top spot holder)."
• 5 Finance Tips from Ancient Greek & Roman Philosophers - "Earning, lending, borrowing, spending; money management and the wider goals of financial literacy are a minefield. Financial management is something ancient Greek and Roman philosophers thought about too."
• Marilyn Monroe auction: Man buys crypt near film star's for $195,000 - "Beverley Hills tech investor Anthony Jabin said he had 'always dreamt' of being next to Monroe. The space is also close to the crypt of Playboy founder Hugh Hefner, who bought the vault next to Monroe's in 1992."
• Just when you think Trump can't get any weirder ... he launches his own version of the Bible - "Of course there's extra material as well as the usual gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. But is it enough to make America believe again?"
• iOS System Data bug stealing your iPhone storage? Here are 5 solutions - "There's been an iOS bug for years that gobbles up a big percentage of an iPhone's available storage. The issue persists in iOS 17.4 and 17.5 but fortunately, there are solutions that don't involve wiping your iPhone. Here's how to fix the iPhone System Data storage bug."
• Man pleads guilty to theft of solid gold toilet worth $6 million from Blenheim Palace - "The fully functioning 18-carat gold toilet was installed at Blenheim Palace in 2019 as part of an exhibition by Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan called 'Victory is Not an Option.'"
• Live Like Karl - "What happened when Karl Lagerfeld's last residence, where he worked and where Choupette lived, was offered at auction."
• The New Ferdinand Berthoud FB RES, With Over Two Hundred Customisation Options - "Inspired by the 1775 table clock by Ferdinand Berthoud, the new FB timepiece is spectacular and technically marvellous."
• Bernard Arnault pulls ahead of Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk on world's richest billionaires list - "Arnault, the patriarch of the family which oversees the Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy empire of brands that includes Sephora, Tiffany & Co., Christian Dior and Stella McCartney, boasts a fortune valued at $230 billion as of Monday, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index."
• Taylor Swift joins world's richest on billionaire list - "Taylor Swift has joined Elon Musk as ranking among the world's 2,781 wealthiest people with a collective wealth of $14.2 trillion, according to a new rich list."
• 141 new billionaires in 'amazing year for rich people' - "Forbes has released its list of the world's billionaires. There are more than ever before - and they're wealthier."
• Germany to redesign Adidas soccer jersey numbering amid Nazi symbol controversy - "German soccer authorities will redesign the number '4' on the country's national jerseys amid claims it resembles a logo used by Nazi paramilitary units."
• Handwritten Sherlock Holmes manuscript expected to raise $1.2 million at auction - "His sole handwritten manuscript of 'The Sign of Four' are being auctioned by Sotheby’s New York, alongside other literary treasures."
• Botswana threatens to send 20,000 elephants to Germany - "The president of Botswana has threatened to send 20,000 elephants to Germany in a dispute over conservation."
• Rome's Future Is a Walk Through Its Past - "City officials kicked off a new project to create a monumental, pedestrian-friendly, archaeological area downtown, but some critics worry the plans puts tourists before residents. 'Italy is working to make the most of what is arguably the most important concentration of history, archaeology, art and nature in the world.'"
• The Secret to a Better Workout Is Probably Already in Your Kitchen - "Used correctly, caffeine can help you lift more, run faster and cycle farther."
• The Case Against 'Good' Coffee - "Instant coffee tastes ... just OK. And that's fine by me."
• A 'heathenish liquor'? A cure for cancer? The history of coffee is full of surprises - "A new study suggests coffee could prevent bowel cancer recurring - but claims for its healing properties have abounded since the 15th century."
• The History Behind the Iconic HermÈs Kelly Bag - "Origins of the Kelly Bag; Grace Kelly's Influence; Breaking Down the Bag; Variations of the Kelly Bag; The Takeaway."
• A Collector's Guide To Vintage 1970s Cartier Watches - "An introduction to 1970s Cartier, when the Paris house moved its watchmaking to Switzerland, starting with an in-depth look at the Tank Louis."
• What Happened to Diane von Furstenberg's Wrap Dress? - "A pandemic, the demise of 'girlboss' culture and new values around what’s 'flattering' have made the classic design seem outdated to some."
• Venting Doesn't Reduce Anger, But Something Else Does, Study Finds - "Venting when angry seems sensible. Conventional wisdom suggests expressing anger can help us quell it, like releasing steam from a pressure cooker. Research team said it found little evidence that venting helps."
• Song lyrics getting simpler, more repetitive, angry & self-obsessed - study - "Researchers analysed the words in more than 12,000 English-language songs across several genres from 1980 to 2020."
• Can I Wear Open-Toed Shoes to Work? - "Toes Out in the Workplace? You Might Want to Tread Carefully. A sandal enthusiast wonders how much 'toe cleavage' is too much for a business-casual office."
• Sign Documents on Your iPhone in Just 5 Easy Steps - "Printer ink is expensive, so here's how to save yourself the hassle: 1. Open Files. 2. Tap the document you want to sign. 3. Tap the icon across the bottom of your screen that looks like a pen tip in a circle. 4. Tap Add Signature. 5. Sign your name on this new screen with your finger then tap Done."
• The 100 Best Restaurants in New York City in 2024 - "Our critic, Pete Wells, drops his annual ranking. See what's new, what moved and what left the list." The New York Times.
• The History of Luxury in 50 Objects, From Cleopatra's Barge to Louis Vuitton Trunks - "An alternative look at the products, ideas, and shots in the dark that shaped the modern world."
• April Fool's day: can you spot the news fakes? Take our quiz - "Take our fun test to see how good you are a spotting the fake news hidden among the real headlines."
• Pope Francis calls for ceasefire in Gaza & Ukraine in Easter message - "'Peace is never made with arms, but with outstretched hands and open hearts,' he said."
• Rain in Spain dampens Easter penitents' fervour - in pictures - "Torrential rain forced the cancellation of Good Friday processions through Seville and other holy week parades, from Cádiz in the south-west to Zaragoza in the north."
• Stop stealing from Airforce One, US journalists told - "Branded pillowcases, glasses and gold-rimmed plates are among the items that have allegedly vanished from the jet."
• Who's bad? From Michael Jackson to David Bowie, why are some stars uncancellable? - "A Michael Jackson jukebox musical has just opened - with no mention of sexual allegations - and a biopic is coming. What makes some celebrities immune to cancel culture? We examine who gets ostracised and who doesn’t."
• Conspiracy, monetisation & weirdness: this is why social media has become ungovernable - "The royals are perennial clickbait, but the wild online bunkum over the Princess of Wales reveals new and darker forces."

April, 2024

• Wearable AI: will it put our smartphones out of fashion? - "Portable AI-powered devices that connect directly to a chatbot without the need for apps or a touchscreen are set to hit the market. Are they the emperor's new clothes or a gamechanger?"
• The Gentlemen creates surge in sales for upper-class fashion - "Extravagant outfits in Netflix caper have led to increasing interest in posh eccentric style."
• 10 Most Underrated Gangster Movies, Ranked - "'Tell Leo he's not God on the throne, he's just a cheap political boss with more hair tonic than brains.' Ever since James Cagney graced the silver screen in The Public Enemy, the gangster genre has become a critical cornerstone of cinema and holds a sacred place in the hearts of film fanatics."
• 10 worst opening movie scenes of all time - "From David Lynch to James Bond: The 10 worst opening movie scenes of all time."
• Here's what art history can teach us about hair loss - "Alopecia in art history: The many ways women's hair loss has been interpreted. At least 40% of women experience hair loss or alopecia over their lifetimes."
• 'Luxury' skiing in North Korea: the Russians allowed behind the border - "Kim Jong-un's selected few are '100% satisfied' but find a country steeped in hopelessness under sanctions."
• The Race to Reinvent CPR - "A new, high-tech approach called ECPR can restart more hearts and save more lives. Why aren't more hospitals embracing it?"
• How to Clean & Descale Your Nespresso Machine - "Follow these simple instructions to keep your coffee maker in tip-top shape, whether you use dish soap or products from the brand."
• Apple explains how the new MacBook Air was designed for travel - "Earlier this month, the company unveiled a new MacBook Air that packs a slew of upgrades, all designed to woo users - especially travelers - to upgrade to this laptop."
• I walked 5,000 steps with Apple Watch SE vs Fitbit Charge 6 - here's the winner - "We pitted two of 2024's most popular wearables against each other."
• Inside the first Louis Vuitton chocolate store outside France - "Louis Vuitton opened its first Le Chocolat Maxime Frédéric beyond French borders in February. It can be found at Singapore’s iconic Marina Bay Sands mall, so while in the country I went to take a peek. All chocolates sold there are created and produced by Maxime Frédéric, the award-winning chef pâtissier of the Cheval Blanc Paris."
• Was Jesus a man of color? Why this question matters more than ever - "As Christians celebrate Easter, they're faced with an uncomfortable truth about the true face of Jesus."
• Easter egg prices soar as cocoa crops are hit by climate crisis & exploitation - "Experts say the global shortage of the main ingredient of chocolate is linked to poor conditions for farmers supplying large companies."
• 'Accidental style icon': how Larry David became the older man's fashion idol - "Understated smart-casual clothes made Curb Your Enthusiasm creator and star 'post-normcore' pin-up."
• Three Presidents, No Neckties - "Did Presidents Biden, Obama and Clinton, appearing together at a fund-raiser in open-neck shirts, look casual or 'a little disheveled'?"
• Ronda Rousey: 'I never wanted to talk about concussion. It felt like a weakness' - "The former MMA fighter, once described as 'the world's most dominant athlete', reveals her fears for the future after a career riddled with glory and pain."
• Claude takes the top spot in AI chatbot ranking - "All three Claude 3 versions are in the top ten. Claude 3 has become the most-liked chatbot in a global AI arena where people blind rate two models in a head-to-head battle."
• Apple Is Working On A Brand New Kind Of Device - "We're entering the era of a new kind of gadget, and it sounds like Apple may be getting in on the action early. It's the time of the smart ring, and a recently-surfaced patent spotted by ithome looks into how we might end up using the Apple ring."
• How to Clean Your MacBook Screen - "Make sure you have a microfiber cloth handy, and you won't go wrong mixing equal parts isopropyl alcohol and water."
• 57 Years Ago, a Legendary Psychologist Discovered the 7-38-55 Rule. It's Still the Secret to Exceptional Emotional Intelligence - "The classic psychological rule is often misapplied. But when understood correctly, it can radically improve your EQ."
• This US state is not covered by the NATO treaty - "Because in a quirk of geography and history, Hawaii is not technically covered by the NATO pact."
• From pajamas to a tomb: Hugh Hefner & Marilyn Monroe auction sells iconic items - "The big sale includes cocktail dresses worn by the actress and the magazine owner's famed silk smoking jackets. Julien's Auctions put together a three-day event in Los Angeles to allow people to bid on pieces of art, memorabilia and even a crypt close to Hefner and Monroe's tombs."
• Have you washed your toothbrush lately? The surprising truth about how to keep your home truly clean - "We all keep our sheets, floors and fridges respectable (don't we?), but how often should we be doing it? From shower heads to keyboards, experts tell the shocking truth."
• How Baltimore's Key Bridge collapsed - a visual guide - "Photos and maps show how Francis Scott Key Bridge snapped after a vessel collision"
• Get Your Bag: The Handbags with the Highest Resale values - "From age-old classics to new wave novelties, these are the bags that retain the highest resale values, according to resell experts."
• What a Daily Serving of 100 Grams of Protein Looks Like - "This helpful visual guide is a good place to start to make sure you're getting enough protein."
• The Art of Conciseness: 5 Ways to Master Brevity - "These simple tools will make you a more credible, professional speaker and writer."
• Italy races to stop leaning tower from collapsing - "It’s become Italy’s other 'leaning tower.' And now, after mounting concern that the Torre Garisenda in Bologna might be on the verge of collapse, a plan has been hatched to save it using the same equipment that shored up the Tower of Pisa."
• Is Michael Jackson's image being cleaned up? - "He was one of the world's most iconic musicians, and so it's no surprise there's a continued desire to tell his story. But critics have suggested the allegations that plagued him are being ignored."
• One Satellite Signal Rules Modern Life. What if Someone Knocks It Out? - "Threats are mounting in space. GPS signals are vulnerable to attack. Their time-keeping is essential for stock trading, power transmission and more."
• How to Recognize the Most Common Form of Skin Cancer - "Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer, but it can be easy to miss, or mistake for another skin issue. Here's how to recognize and prevent it."
• Meta's Smart Glasses Are Becoming Artificially Intelligent. We Took Them for a Spin - "What happens when a columnist and a reporter use A.I. glasses to scan groceries, monuments and zoo animals? Hilarity, wonder and lots of mistakes ensued."
• In France, the Future Is Arriving on a Barge - "The Seine is becoming a test case for a European plan to cut carbon emissions by turning rivers into the new highways."
• T's 25 Most Defining Pieces of Furniture From the Last 100 Years: Everything We Considered - "From a Marcel Breuer chair to Metro shelving, all the nominated objects."
• The 25 Most Defining Pieces of Furniture From the Last 100 Years - "Three designers, a museum curator, an artist and a design-savvy actress convened at The New York Times to make a list of the most enduring and significant objects for living."
• 10 good reasons to visit ChÂteau de Vaux-le-Vicomte - "The Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte will astonish you! Find out why."
• Harvard Removes Binding of Human Skin From Book in Its Library - "The decision to find a 'respectful final disposition' for human remains used for a 19th-century book comes amid growing scrutiny of their presence in museum collections."
• Bear Essentials: The Enduring Panda-Dial Chronograph - "One would struggle to find a watch enthusiast who isn't familiar with the iconic layout of a panda-dial chronograph and its corresponding reverse panda. Chronograph watches have a built-in stopwatch complication."
• Here's how to protect against iPhone password reset attacks - "One of the latest attacks on iPhone sees malicious parties abuse the Apple ID password reset system to inundate users with iOS prompts to take over their accounts (often called 'MFA bombing')."
• The 177-year history behind Cartier, the iconic jewelry brand that's a favorite of the royals & worth $12 billion - "Cartier is one of the most famous jewelry houses in the world. A Cartier watch can cost up to $300,000. Here's how the brand began in 19th-century France and made its way worldwide."
• Every Omega x Swatch MoonSwatch, Ranked - "Yes, all 22 of them. It’s no secret that the old guard of luxury labels is struggling to decipher and decrypt modern hype. But by taking risks and the time to discern the desires of contemporary consumers, Swiss watchmaker Omega has manifestly cracked the code via its highly sought-after collaboration with sister brand Swatch. They call it the MoonSwatch, as it pivots on fun, affordable riffs on the time-honoured Speedmaster Moonwatch."
• 13 Best Instant Coffee Brands, Ranked - "It's not imitation. To do it, an extract is made from roasted coffee beans, then it's concentrated and dried with either freeze or spray drying. All the coffee crystals need is hot water or milk to rehydrate into the aromatic beverage we're familiar with."
• 11 Mistakes You're Making With Instant Coffee - "Many of the unfavorable qualities that the no-fuss form is commonly associated with, such as blandness, bitterness, and acidity, are rarely a result of the granules themselves, but rather mistakes made during preparation."
• Thierry Despont, 75, Dies; Brought Elegance to Prestigious Properties - "Whether helping refurbish the Statue of Liberty and the Carlyle hotel or decorating the homes of Bill Gates and Calvin Klein, he designed with a sense of heritage and place."
• People we've lost in 2024 - "Here are some notable people who have died in 2024."
• What the world's second happiest country knows about happiness - "The secret of being the world's second happiest country."
• Apple business card signed by Steve Jobs from 1983 sells for over $180K, may have set new world record - "Business card was authenticated and is said to be in 'pristine condition'. RR Auction shared the details of the sale with FOX Business - saying the $181,183 sale is believed to have broken a world record for the highest price achieved for a signed business card."
• The oldest watches in the world - "The Pomander Watch, also known as the Watch 1505, is heralded as the world's first watch. Crafted by Peter Henlein, a German locksmith and watchmaker, this timepiece from the early German Renaissance period represents the dawn of portable timekeeping."
• 26 Coffee Hacks You Need To Know For A Better Cup - "A good cup of coffee can mean the difference between an awesome morning and a so-so one. Depending on the brew style, getting the specifics down can get tricky. That's why we compiled a list of coffee hacks to help you brew a better cup. Whether a straightforward Americana or a fanciful French press, here are some tips to wake you up."
• Brunello Cucinelli's New Glasses Bring the Brand's Signature Style to Eye Level - "The 14 debut models - crafted from acetate, titanium, and horn - are right on time for sunnier weather."
• Inside the Garrick, the Elite Men-Only London Club Rocked by Criticism - "Founded in 1831, the opulent private club has long guarded its membership list closely. A leak this month caused a scandal."
• The Essential Stephen King - "The author has dominated horror fiction, and arguably all popular fiction, for decades. Here's where to start."
• Piaget, The Art of Ultra-Thin Watchmaking & Miniaturization - "A closer look at Piaget's archives reveals how ultra-thin has shaped the brand and why it has to be considered a true complication."
• I never liked e-readers, but the Kindle app on my phone has converted me - "Having found that I needed an e-reader to continue a series of books, I decided to turn my phone into an electronic book."
• In 1965, Several James Bond Veterans Made An Anti-James Bond Spy Film - "Three years after the first James Bond film, 'Dr. No,' a handful of folks who were working on the existing James Bond movies temporarily splintered off to make a completely different kind of spy film. 1965's 'The Ipcress File' stars Michael Caine as Harry Palmer, a British secret agent who is much more interested in cooking a high quality meal than skiing off a cliff or dropping quippy one-liners after creatively killing his enemies."
• Spain's siestas & late-nights lifestyle is making some people unhappy. Here's why - "Spanish culture is known for its late nights. Now there are calls to reform a 'crazy' lifestyle seen by some as an unhealthy use of time."
• To Live Past 100, Mangia a Lot Less: Italian Expert's Ideas on Aging - "Valter Longo, who wants to live to a healthy 120 or 130, sees the key to longevity in diet - legumes and fish - and faux fasting."
• Asia's 50 best restaurants for 2024 revealed - "After losing the number one spot to Bangkok in 2023, Tokyo has reclaimed its crown as the city with the top eatery in the region at the annual Asia's 50 Best Restaurants Awards, which were announced in Seoul, South Korea on Tuesday evening."
• Automatic vs manual car? The winner is obvious - "The long overdue death of the stick shift car."
• iPhone's Photos app is more feature-rich than you think: A complete walkthrough [Video] - "Apple's Photos app has evolved significantly since its release with the original iPhone in 2007. It now offers a wealth of features that go beyond simple photo storage. I wanted to put together a detailed walkthrough that talks about both the basics and more advanced features that are lesser known."
• Rimowa Just Brought Back a Mid-Century Suitcase Not Seen Since the 1960s - "Rimowa has brought back a mid-century hammered aluminum design in a pair of luxurious limited-edition cases."
• Pierce Brosnan issues four-word verdict on Aaron Taylor-Johnson 'being new Bond' - "Pierce Brosnan portrayed womanising secret agent James Bond in four movies between 1995 and 2002."
• Swiss Watches: Market Share by Brand in 2023 - "Swiss watches are renowned for their precision, craftsmanship, and quality. In this visualization, we rank the top Swiss watch brands based on their estimated 2023 market share, which comes from data provided by LuxeConsult and Morgan Stanley."
• Barcelona's famous Sagrada Familia will finally be completed in 2026 - more than 140 years after construction started, officials have confirmed. The construction of the last of six towers will mark the completion of the structure of the basilica, the organization responsible for managing the site announced last week.
• I Finally Built the Perfect Smart Home. Here Are 3 Things Everyone Should Do - "The smart home of your dreams is possible ... if you can scale the learning curve."
• A homecoming for the metal house once considered the future of American architecture - "Now part of the permanent collection at the Palm Springs Art Museum, the story of Albert Frey's 'Aluminaire House,' and its significance in the history of architecture is quite remarkable."
• Apple is finally adding an iOS home screen feature that Android has had for 15 years - "For the first time, iOS 18 will let users more freely rearrange app icons on their home screens, creating blank columns, empty rows, and open spaces between apps. The icons will still be locked to a grid, like on Android, but apps will no longer automatically move to fill in empty spaces."
• How to Bargain Like a Kidnap Negotiator - "One tip: Keep your cool. In Scott Walker's 15 years as a kidnap negotiator, he learned how to get his message across quickly, calmly and efficiently."
• Louis Vuitton's 'Speedy' is the new A-list It bag: Rihanna, LeBron James - "Rev up your wardrobe with the bag everyone's chasing this season: Louis Vuitton's iconic Speedy - reimagined in bold hues by Pharrell Williams during his spring 2024 debut as menswear creative director for the French label."
• Anne Hathaway on Tuning Out the Haters & Embracing Her True Self - "Hollywood used to tell her she wasn't sexy. She knew better: “I was like, 'I'm a Scorpio. I know what I'm like on a Saturday night.'"
• My Honest Review of the Most-Hyped Coffee Maker of All Time - "Celebs, chefs, and designers sing its praises."
• Why Are Watch Nerds All Wearing Snoopy Watches Right Now? - "This beagle has more horological cred than you might think. Watches with cartoon characters on their dials aren't what they might first appear to be."
• The genius Roman creations that still amaze us today - "Rome might not have built ancient history's biggest empire - a shout out to Genghis for that one - but it was undoubtedly the most enduring and influential. That's because Roman passions for outrageous, oversized architecture went hand in hand with detailed record-keeping and relentless imperial PR. As a result not only have a huge number of landmark sites survived to this day, but we also know a lot about them."
• Donald Trump: From Queens to the White House - "A quick guide to the life of Donald Trump. Donald Trump - businessman turned reality TV star turned president - is running again for America's highest office. We've got a quick guide to his backstory as the Republican Party's frontrunner sets his sights on returning to the White House."
• George Lazenby backs Aaron Taylor-Johnson for Bond - "The actor who played 007 in 1969's On Her Majesty's Secret Service said he would be happy to support Taylor-Johnson, whose possible casting has led to an antisemitic backlash"
• The Princess of Wales' treatment explained - "What is preventive chemotherapy and how effective is it? As Princess of Wales begins treatment after cancer diagnosis, we answer some key questions."
• BB back in Villefranche, where it all started - "Over the next two months, Brigitte Bardot will be the subject of an extraordinary exhibition at La Cittadelle in Villefranche-sur-Mer, at the Chapelle Saint-Elme. This is happening on the occasion of the 90th anniversary of BB, who will reach this special age on September 28."
• The man in the iron lung: How Paul Alexander lived life to the full - "Paul Alexander was six years old when he woke, terrified, to find himself inside a large metal tube, with only his head sticking out. When he died recently at the age of 78, Paul had spent more than seven decades using his iron lung, longer than anyone else in history."
• The Hotel Guest Who Wouldn't Leave - "Mickey Barreto's five-year stay cost him only $200.57. Now it might cost him his freedom."
• How Many Ultra High Net Worth Individuals Are There in the World? - "In order for someone to be considered an 'ultra-high-net-worth individual,' they typically need to have at least $30 million worth of net investable assets to their name. However, this isn't really a legal definition."
• Why You Should Turn Off Journal Suggestions on Your iPhone - "If you're not using the Journal app, you probably don't want it to have access to your personal data. Here's how to stop it."
• Here's what happens if Trump can't get a $464 million bond - "Assets, such as buildings, houses, cars, helicopters and his plane, are in play. The main focus could be on his bank accounts, which experts say will be easier to take hold of, and properties, which would be more difficult."
• On a garden bench, amid a sea of daffodils: how Kate dropped her bombshell news - "Royal fans hope that news of princess's cancer diagnosis will end the online storm."
• Counting sheep: Who came up with this old sleep tip & does it work? - "History supposedly provides the answer: It was said to be a way for medieval shepherds, devoid of human company for weeks at a time, to fall asleep each night - they counted their sheep until drowsy. Whether that’s true or not, I don’t know."
• A market mystery: Why do capers come in such tiny jars? - "There are certain bad design decisions that seem to persist for no good reason. No standard spoon can fit inside the narrow openings of the typical glass caper jar. Dumping them out risks loss of essential brine."
• Isabelle Huppert: 'I was never the woman behind the man' - "... 'The only place I could take was the main place.' As brings to London a 90-minute monologue about Mary, Queen of Scots, the celebrated French actor talks about her extraordinary career, and why she’d love to make a film in the UK - or play a Marvel villain. Below, Guy Lodge chooses her finest screen appearances."
• The rise & fall of Sam Bankman-Fried: an unrepentant ex-mogul faces down decades in prison - "The former CEO of FTX, once a king of cryptocurrency, saw a swift reversal of his fortunes starting in November 2022."
• Apple Releases iOS 17.4.1 & iPadOS 17.4.1 With Bug Fixes & Security Improvements - "When issuing the new iPhone upgrade, Apple simply said: 'This update provides important bug fixes and security updates and is recommended for all users.'"
• Apple becomes the latest tech giant under siege - "The tech giant has engineered an illegal monopoly in smartphones, according to the sweeping US Department of Justice lawsuit filed on Thursday. To understand how much the US government's new lawsuit strikes at the heart of the identity Apple has forged for itself, let's first consider the firm's fanbase."
• 'This is the France you dream of' - "Medieval villages, secret alleyways and Charles de Gaulle’s retreat are just some of our tipsters’ French finds. Climbing towards the basilica from the river, we explored a zigzag of secret staircases and hidden courtyards in Lyon."
• 36 Hours in Cape Town, South Africa: Things to Do & See - "The spectacular South African city is shedding its Eurocentric identity and emerging as a culturally rich African hub."
• William Shatner looks INCREDIBLE as he celebrates his 93rd birthday - "Fans exclaim: 'He is the best looking 93 year old of all time surely.'"
• Why do we do things that are bad for us? The ancient philosophers had an answer - "Plato, Socrates and Aristotle wrestled with the concept of akrasia - whether it’s possible to act against what you know to be good."
• OpenAI Sora: Everything you need to know - "Sora can create hyperrealistic AI video. OpenAI unveiled Sora in February to much hype and fanfare. It generates some of the most realistic looking AI video so far released."
• Reddit's IPO Is a Content Moderation Success Story - "The site's journey from toxic cesspool to trusted news source illustrates the business value of keeping bad actors at bay."
• Your Questions About Sodium, Answered - "How much salt is too much? Should I cut back? We asked experts these and other questions about sodium. The researchers found that those who consumed the least amount of sodium had the lowest risk of cardiovascular disease. And as sodium consumption increased, so did cardiovascular risk, a finding that supports the U.S. guidelines."
• Welcome to the London Book Fair, Where Everyone Knows Their Place - "If you want to understand the power map of the publishing industry, just look at this event’s floor plan."
• Aspen Has 153 New Acres of Terrain. Cue the Champagne - "This Colorado enclave draws both die-hard snow lovers and those who don't even dream of skiing, be they museum-goers, gourmands or influencers."
• An Exhaustive Guide to the Best Coffee Makers We’ve Ever Reviewed - "At Epicurious we take our coffee quite seriously. We’ve tested and reviewed close to 100 machines of different styles, sizes, and price points looking for the best coffee makers. From the most complex smart espresso makers to the simplest styles that coffee drinkers have been using in one way or another for centuries, we’ve tried them all."
• HermÈs sued over claims it refused to sell shoppers Birkin bags - "The lawsuit calls the Birkin handbags an 'icon of fashion' - with some fetching well over $10,000. Hermès has been sued over claims it unlawfully allows only customers with 'sufficient purchase history' with the company to buy its famous Birkin bags."
• Blueberries, strawberries again on the 'Dirty Dozen' list - "Approximately 95% of nonorganic strawberries, leafy greens such as spinach and kale, collard and mustard greens, grapes, peaches and pears tested by the United States government contained detectable levels of pesticides, according to the 2024 Shopper's Guide to Pesticides in Produce."
• Cutting Back on One Amino Acid Increases Lifespan of Mice Up to 33% - "Isoleucine is one of three branched-chain amino acids we use to build proteins in our bodies. It is essential for our survival, but since our cells can't produce it from scratch, we have to get it from sources like eggs, dairy, soy protein and meats. But there can always be too much of a good thing."
• The 12 ultimate hero foods: how to improve your meals in seconds - without really trying - "They are the familiar ingredients that can add punch, zing and umami to even a five-minute recipe. Here is a guide to getting the very best out of them."
• Scientists can now remove microplastics from our water with 94 per cent efficiency - "University of Waterloo researchers have created a new technology that can remove harmful microplastics from contaminated water with 94 per cent efficiency. The amount of plastic pollution in our ecosystem has become an increasingly alarming concern globally."
• Oprah, Ozempic & Us - "Oprah's back and she wants to talk about losing weight. Again. On Monday, Oprah's ABC special, 'Shame, Blame and the Weight Loss Revolution,' promised to answer some of the biggest questions around the new weight-loss drugs."
• $33,000-a-night private island where you can swim with sharks - "How a $33,000-a-night private island inspired by the Kennedys became a beacon for sustainable tourism."
• Explosive star event will create once-in-a-lifetime sight in the sky. Here's how to see it - "Astronomers are expecting a 'new star' to appear in the night sky anytime between now and September, and it promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime celestial sight, according to NASA. The expected brightening event, known as a nova, will occur in the Milky Way’s Corona Borealis, or Northern Crown constellation, which is located between the Boötes and Hercules constellations. While a supernova is the explosive death of a massive star, a nova refers to the sudden, brief explosion from a collapsed star known as a white dwarf."
• Gigantic new aircraft design aims to create the largest plane ever to fly - "Meet the WindRunner airplane, whose mission will be to deliver gigantic 300-foot-long blades directly to wind farms. To help the world meet its decarbonization targets, it'll use sustainable aviation fuel and needs only a simple packed-dirt or gravel runway to land on. Radia is banking on research organisation Bloomberg NEF's estimation that up to $10 trillion will be spent on onshore wind through 2050. The development of WindRunner is to enable GigaWind, the XXL turbines made by Radia’s partners, which include five of the world's top six turbine manufacturers."
• US reportedly considering plea deal offer for Julian Assange - "But lawyers for WikiLeaks founder say they have been 'given no indication' Washington will change approach in espionage case."
• I Was Lonely In a New City. This Tech Trick Helped Me Belong - "There is a comfort in having somewhere tried and true to go, especially when you’re a stranger in a foreign city."
• Swatch & OMEGA's Snoopy MoonSwatch Has Landed - "Nearly two-months after posting a mysterious Instagram reel that sent casual horologists and Peanuts Enjoyers into raptures, Swatch and OMEGA's Snoopy-inspired MoonSwatch watch collaboration is finally ready for its release."
• The Nespresso Vertuo Trick That Makes A Stronger Cup Of Coffee - "Just press the brew button twice. When you do this, the button will turn blue, signaling that your Vertuo machine is now in Expert Mode. It's a subtle yet powerful modification that allows you to extract a more concentrated coffee from your chosen pod."
• These are the world's happiest countries in 2024 - "The World Happiness Report is out, and once again Nordic countries are humming along with the highest scores. The No. 1 country, Finland, has held onto its top ranking for seven years straight."
• Kate's photo of late Queen was doctored, agency says, as princess spotted in public for first time in months - "Another official photograph involving Catherine, Princess of Wales was digitally manipulated, according to a leading photo agency, sparking a second royal retouching controversy just as Kate was spotted in public for the first time in months."
• How Trader Joe's tote bags became an unexpected style symbol in Japan - "While US shoppers consider Trader Joe's totes a functional albeit plain grocery bag, Japanese fashionistas carry the totes for their status - and 'American casual' style."
• The maker of Ozempic is funding a new Nvidia-powered AI supercomputer - "The owner of Novo Nordisk, the drugmaker that gave the world Ozempic and Wegovy, is funding a new supercomputer powered by Nvidia's artificial intelligence technology with a key aim of discovering new medicines and treatments."
• Inside 'Biba:' the iconic London store where Anna Wintour was a shop girl - "Big Biba, the seven-floor Art Deco emporium on London’s fashionable Kensington High Street featured a soup stand inspired by Andy Warhol, a roof garden featuring real flamingos and penguins, and a much-lauded celebrity hotspot the &339;Rainbow Room'."
• The Most Famous Cowboy Hat in the World Right Now - "Beyoncé, Shania Twain, Kevin Costner and many reality TV regulars are loyal customers of Kemo Sabe hats. The shop in Aspen can't believe its luck."
• Britain's bitter bread battle: what a £5 sourdough loaf tells us about health, wealth & class - "'Ideas of social status and the colour of your bread go back to Roman times.' Some complain that pricey sourdough is elitist and pretentious. Others lambast cheap sliced white as unhealthy and unsustainable. How did our most basic foodstuff become a source of conflict and division?"
• How to Live Like an Artist - "The best - and most idiosyncratic - homes reflect their inhabitants' tastes and whims, without compromise."
• The Garrick Club's notable members - in pictures - "The Garrick Club has been under pressure to change its rules to allow female members. After years of debate, and accusations that it is an elite and misogynistic institution, change may finally happen later this year when its current members are likely to be asked to vote again on the issue."
• World's worst polluted cities - "The world's 100 worst polluted cities are in Asia - and 83 of them are in just one country."
• ‘Digital humans’ are here. What does it mean for you? - "Digital humans: the relatable face of artificial intelligence?"
• Aaron Taylor-Johnson chosen as next James Bond, reports say - "Famous for Kick-Ass and Avengers: Age Of Ultron, the 33-year-old actor previously said rumours linking him with James Bond are 'charming and wonderful'."
• Prince Harry & Meghan ‘downgraded’ on Royal Family website - "Profiles vanished & replaced by joint page next to Andrew. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex's bio disappeared completely for 30 minutes last night, before reappearing below other senior royals."
• Trump hints he could DEPORT Prince Harry from the US if he wins election - "The Duke won't get 'special privileges' if he lied on his visa about doing cocaine, weed and mushrooms."
• Trump bond: Lawyers say he is unable to get $464m guarantee in New York fraud case - "The former president must either pay the full amount in cash or secure a bond in order to continue his appeal. If he is unable to do so by 25 March, he faces the prospect of some of his real estate assets being seized by the state's attorney general."
• Damien Hirst formaldehyde animal works dated to 1990s were made in 2017 - "Three sculptures exhibited in galleries around world were artificially aged, sources claim."
• Is TikTok really a danger to the West? - "China has attacked a bill going through US Congress that could ultimately see TikTok banned in the States, calling it unjust."
• How Temu is shaking up the world of online shopping - "The company, which sells everything from clothes to electronics and furniture, first launched in the US in 2022 and later in the UK and the rest of the world. It's 'Amazon on steroids,' says retail analyst Neil Saunders, and with the tagline 'shop like a billionaire' it has exploded in popularity, shipping to 49 countries worldwide. Since then, it has consistently topped global app download charts, with just under 152 million Americans using it every month, according to data gathered by analyst SimilarWeb."
• The supersonic plane that was faster than Concorde - "Five years before Concorde's first flight, another majestic supersonic aircraft took to the skies - and almost became the inspiration for an even faster passenger plane. It was the XB-70 Valkyrie, an experimental plane developed for the US Air Force."
• Marcello Gandini obituary - "Marcello Gandini's cars were made to stop the traffic. The Italian designer, who has died aged 85, created supercars for the super-rich, and such exotic machines as Lamborghini's Miura and Countach, Alfa Romeo's Montreal and Maserati's Khamsin were guaranteed to draw crowds of admirers when parked outside the grand hotels of Monaco, Rome or London."
• The 10 Most Important Rolex Watches Ever Made - "From the Submariner to the Day-Date, these watches made history and defined a brand. 1926: The Oyster - 1945: The Datejust - 1950: The Oyster Perpetual - 1953: The Submariner - 1954: The GMT Master - 1956: The Milgauss."
• 10 Milestone Moments in the History of the Wristwatch - "Today it is common for a man to wear a watch on his wrist, but it was a different story around 100 years ago. World War I, which started in 1914 and ended in 1918, brought to the battlefield much that was new - airplanes, mustard gas, military tanks. It also brought something new to civilian society: wristwatches, formerly restricted to ladies, became military-issue equipment, supplanting pocketwatches in popularity among gentlemen."
• The Paris Olympics Promise to Be Stunning. The Prices Already Are - "Want a prime spot to watch 10,000 athletes float by on the Seine or to catch beach volleyball in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower? Get ready for sticker shock."
• OFFICIAL TICKETING WEBSITE OF THE PARIS 2024 GAMES - "Welcome to the official ticketing website of the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games! To log in to your account or create one, click 'Log-in/Register' below."
• These are the global airports passengers love the most - "Airports Council International have gathered nearly 600,000 surveys from travelers at more than 400 airports around the world and have revealed the passengers' favorites."
• Remember when Katharine Hepburn wore pants & scandalized America? - "In a man's world, Katharine Hepburn often wore the pants. The Hollywood leading lady and trailblazer defiantly embraced menswear staples, amid incredible pressure not to, paving the way for comfort-loving, power-dressing women decades on."
• What's The Difference Between Nespresso Vertuo & The Original Machines? - "Original Nespresso machines use pressurized water to extract shots of traditional espresso from their capsules, similar to traditional espresso machines. Vertuo machines are more high-tech, with a barcode reader telling the machine how to best extract each pod, which gets a high-speed spin in the brew head during the making process."
• What Makes Nespresso Vertuo Coffee Machines Unique? - "Nespresso's coffee capsules created for Vertuo machines are considerably larger, made of metal, and have a round shape. These pods come with barcodes imprinted on the rims, which are part of the Vertuo machine's unique patented  Centrifusion extraction technology."
• 13 Nespresso Coffee Pod Flavors, Ranked Worst To Best - "Nespresso currently offers 30 original coffee varieties, 35 coffees compatible with the Vertuo design, and limited edition coffees made for both styles."
• How to use software to get the most out of your new iPhone - "The best software to help you get the most out of your new iPhone."
• 8 iPhone browser apps you should use instead of Safari - "If you’re looking for a Safari alternative, here are our favorite iPhone browser apps you should consider using instead: 1. Google Chrome. 2. Arc Search. 3. Microsoft Edge. 4. Aloha Browser. 5. Brave Browser. 6. Opera Browser. 7. DuckDuckGo Private Browser. 8.Firefox Focus."
• How to Clean a Water Bottle - "Perhaps you clean a water bottle with a quick rinse of water before putting it back on the shelf. That may seem adequate, but what if you peer inside and see mold? Here’s how to effectively clean your water bottle."
• How to Maintain a Mechanical Watch - "For enthusiasts and collectors alike, ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of mechanical watches is a top priority. That means understanding the basic steps for daily care of your mechanical watch, how to properly wind and set your watch to avoid damage, and when to seek professional servicing for your timepiece."
• A Most Wanted Man! The dozen mistresses of John le CarrÉ are 'just the tip of the iceberg' - "John le Carré is reported as saying he didn't want to 'humiliate' his wife Jane."
• My hammock was my window on to the valley: a new type of walking trail in the Swiss Alps - "The world's first hammock hiking trail in southern Switzerland takes hikers into quiet corners of the Alps - with their beds in their backpack for lazy pit stops and overnight stays."
• How Many Steps Do You Really Need? That’s the Wrong Question - "Walking is important, but challenging yourself to go faster and higher can improve your health even more. We love counting steps."
• Who Has the Secret to Well-Being? The Answer May Surprise You - "Toddlers - full of energy, curiosity and laughter - have a lot to teach adults, experts say."
• Architectural adventures in the Alps - in pictures - "After months of isolation in 2020, the Leipzig photographer Albrecht Voss asked his oldest friend to join him on an adventure through the Alps taking pictures of modern architecture. With just 20 days to capture 28 buildings in Slovenia, Austria, Switzerland and Germany, the project involved scaling glaciers in the dark and sleeping in empty chapels."
• 5th Superyacht Chef Competition - "At the Yacht Club de Monaco. Organised by the YCM in partnership with Bluewater, it takes place on April 4 under the aegis of YCM’s La Belle Classe Academy training centre."
• Best AI Prompts for Astrology & Horoscope - "Unlock the secrets of the stars with these powerful AI prompts for astrology and horoscope readings. Harness the cosmic energy and elevate your predictions with ClickUp AI."
• Discover Your Destiny with ChatGPT Astrology Prompts - "Experience the power of ChatGPT astrology prompts to explore your horoscope and discover what the future holds for you. Try it now! Act as an Astrologe. 'I want you to act as an astrologer. You will learn about the zodiac signs and their meanings, understand planetary positions and how they affect human lives, be able to interpret horoscopes accurately, and share your insights with those seeking guidance or advice. My first suggestion request is "I need help providing an in-depth reading for a client interested in career development based on their birth chart.'"
• 10 BEST TRAVEL ACCESSORIES & GADGETS FOR YOUR 2024 VACATION PLANS - "As any experienced traveler will definitely tell you, before you set off on your next adventure, you need to put together a collection of handy, reliable, and well-designed travel accessories. Great travel accessories are essential, they have your back in the most sudden and spontaneous of situations, providing you with aid and relief when you least expect it."
• Irish names you're probably saying wrong & how to pronounce them - "Do you know your Gearóid from your Gobnait? Your Fearghal from your Muirgheal? To the untrained eye, Irish names can seem like a daunting ambush of rogue consonants and surprise vowels."
• Every iPhone released from the first iPhone to the iPhone 15 - "A look back at every iPhone ever."
• 5 Lean Principles Every Engineer Should Know - "The Five key principles of lean: value, value stream, flow, pull, and perfection, can be applied to any business process that contains wasteful steps, in any industry."
• There's an Art to Arranging a Bookshelf. Here's How It’s Done - "Start by thinking of your shelves as a kind of three-dimensional wallpaper that adds visual interest to a room. The things you choose to display should express your personality."
• What Does COSC Chronometer Certification Mean for Your Watch? - "When collectors refer to their watches as being 'COSC certified', it means the chronometer certification comes from the Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres. Focusing on the standards of the COSC, certification criteria is based on ISO 3159 standards."
• Meet TAOS, a new Brand Entirely Dedicated to MÉtiers d'Art - "A new brand emanating from a renowned Geneva-based artistic craft workshop, here's TAOS Watches and its Métiers d'Art unique pieces."
• The stunning 30-hour train ride that sells out in minutes - "The Dogu Express, or Eastern Express in English - is making the country one of the world's leading rail destinations. Historically a commuter train from Ankara to Kars, the train has gone viral among Turkish influencers in recent years for its stunning scenery through the east, full of off-the-beaten-path treasures."
• Scientists divided over whether record heat is acceleration of climate crisis - "Some believe global anomalies are in line with predictions but others are more concerned by speed of change."
• 5 Best Email Client Apps for iPhone - "Stay on top of your inbox with the right iPhone app: 1. Apple Mail: For the Best iCloud Mail Experience. 2. Gmail: For Google Power Users. 3. Microsoft Outlook: For Microsoft Power Users. 4. Proton Mail: For the Best Privacy and Security. 5. Twobird: To Make Your Inbox a To-Do List."
• How to make the most of the iOS Calculator - "On the surface, the default iOS Calculator app seems very simple. But, there are a few tricks up the Calculator app's sleeve: 1. Deleting a digit doesn't mean you have to delete the whole number. 2. The Scientific Calculator view can be useful for many functions. 3. Copying numbers from your calculator can be a lifesaver for longer strings of digits."
• All the Things You Don’t Need to Dry-Clean (Even If the Label Says You Do) - "You don't have to dry-clean these fabrics: Cashmere. Silk (if it's high-quality or lightly colored). Wool sweaters, blankets ..."
• Some people are genetically predisposed to gain weight. These 5 tips can help - "The American Medical Association voted to recognize obesity as a disease in 2013. The statistics are familiar: Around 42% of adult Americans are obese, according to the latest numbers from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and another 31% are overweight."
• Galapagos Islands to double tourist entry fees amid concerns over rising visitor numbers - "The entry fee will go from $100 to $200 for nationals of almost all countries, except for other members of the South American trade bloc Mercosur, which includes Argentina, Brazil, and Peru."
• What happened when world's most populous nation turned off TikTok overnight - "India banned TikTok without warning. 200 million people learned to live without it. As TikTok fans in the United States worry about losing access to the wildly-popular social media app, there are lessons they can learn from a country on the other side of the world."
• Are You a 'Floor Person'? Why Lying on the Ground Feels So Good - "For some, just a few minutes can quiet the mind."
• What Popular Fitness Fads Get Wrong - "Viral online exercise challenges, like the 75 Hard or the 12-3-20, might get you in shape in the short run, but they may not help you build sustainable healthy habits."
• 75 hard - "A Tactical Guide to Winning the War with Yourself."
• 75 Hard Has a Cultish Following. Is It Worth All the Effort? - "Thousands of people each year partake in the 75-day program meant to build 'mental toughness,' according to its creator, but health experts caution the program may be too rigid and intense."
• 7 Tips To Make You a Google Gemini Expert - "Level up your AI conversations with Google's model."
• Why Flight Attendants Always Sit on Their Hands During Takeoff & Landing - "As with most things flight attendants do, it's all about safety. 'It's a safety position,' Hilary Clark, director of in-flight services with private jet company Planet 9, tells Travel + Leisure. 'The reason for this safety position is if an emergency were to occur on takeoff or landing, their head, hands, and arms are already in a slight brace position.'"
• Why a Burger Costs More Now - "There are dozens of different factors that go into food inflation."
• The Best Watches at the 2024 Oscars - "From Roger Federer’s Rolex grail to Bradley Cooper’s redesigned Louis Vuitton staple."
• Trending at the Oscars, Brooches for Men - "The brooch has shed its granny's jewel box connotations and is making a comeback as a must-have accessory for guys. They were pinned to the lapels of Cillian Murphy, Teo Yoo, Ke Huy Quan, Robert Downey Jr., Tatanka Means, Mark Ruffalo and Jeffrey Wright. They were stylishly fastened to Colman Domingo’s bow tie."
• Everything you need to know about gold watches - "Even though we can understand innately that gold is valuable, there are a lot of factors to consider when you’re faced with a gold watch."
• Interacting with dogs may affect multiple areas of the brain, study finds - "Multiple studies have shown the emotional, physiological and cognitive benefits of interactions with animals, especially dogs - such as boosted energy, increased positive emotions or lowered risk for memory loss."
• Dubai's new 'GigaFarm' project will cost more than $300 million, but it could save agriculture - "'GigaFarm' in the desert could produce 3 million kilograms of food."
• Kate Middleton Doctored Photo - "AFP Says Kensington Palace No Longer A 'Trusted Source' & Kill Notices Usually Reserved For North Korea."
• Report: Apple's planning a major new feature for AirPods Pro - "Apple could be planning to expand AirPods Pro's feature set with a software update. The new mode would join features like Live Listen and Conversation Booster."
• The $50 charging accessory I never leave home without (& how it works) - "If you're looking for extra power outlets, but don't have space for a traditional strip, Baseus' 32W charging station has you covered. It offers plenty of USB and AC ports, is a great size, and has plenty of surge and lightning protection for your devices."
• Will She Make the Next Birkin? - "A bag designer at Hermès has the fun and formidable challenge of creating a new icon. No presh. Priscila Alexandre Spring, who was appointed the creative director of leather goods at Hermès in 2020."
• Ira von FÜrstenberg, Jet-Setting Princess & Actress, Dies at 83 - "With her aristocratic lineage, high-profile husbands and famous friends, she embodied a chic life of luxury as an international social figure."
• These May Be the Oldest Olive Trees in the World - "While the sentinel trees of Northern Lebanon may not be as old as some traditions hold, one tree might be more than 1,000 years old. Katherine Kornei has previously reported on the study of tree rings at Viking settlement sites and in Stradivarius violins."
• Explained: Barrels, Mainsprings & the Trade-off Between Power Reserve & Energy - "Every mechanical watch employs at least one mainspring barrel as its energy source. When a watch is wound, the coils of the mainspring tighten, storing potential energy which is then slowly released through the gear train to the escapement."
• 4 Best Bluetooth Wireless Headphones of 2024 - "Earbuds are discreet and convenient to use, but if you want to get the best wireless sound for the money, choose over-ear Bluetooth headphones. Although no single headphones set is a perfect match for everyone, the JBL Tour One M2 comes darn close. We love this pair's customizable sound, stellar call clarity, and days-long battery life - plus, it includes some bonus features usually reserved for pricier pairs."
• Don't Toss Your Old iPhone or Android Smartphone. Turn It Into a Home Security Camera - "Free software can transform your old phone into a basic home security camera. One of the best app options for setting up your phone as a security camera is Alfred. It's cross-platform, so it doesn't matter if your old phone was an Android phone or iPhone. And the same goes for your new phone."
• US election 2024: A really simple guide - "Americans will head to the polls in November 2024 to elect the next US president. The person sitting in the White House's Oval Office has a big influence on people's lives both at home and abroad, so the outcome of this election matters for everyone."
• Australian billionaire revives dream to set sail on Titanic II - "'It's a lot more fun to do the Titanic than it is to sit at home and count my money,' Palmer reportedly told local media with the blunt honesty of man who earns almost half a billion dollars in mining royalties every year. For Palmer the question is not how to earn money, but where to spend it."
• You Haven't Seen Blue Until You've Seen San Andres - "The island, close to Nicaragua but part of Colombia, boasts waters in seven shades of the color. Counting them - from a boat, from a cay, from the shade of a coconut tree - is a meditative experience."
• Four Years On, the Mysteries of Covid Are Unraveling - "Are superdodgers real? Is Covid seasonal? And what's behind its strangest symptoms? Here’s what we've learned."
• Francis Ford Coppola on why The Godfather was really about the US - "In these exclusive BBC Archive interviews, Francis Ford Coppola describes how with his masterpiece The Godfather he visualised the intricate web of influence, manipulation and violence that underpinned the world of organised crime - and showed how it reflected the US."
• Sharon Stone names producer who 'told her to sleep with co-star' - "Actor says Hollywood mogul Robert Evans told her to have sex with William Baldwin while filming Sliver."
• Elihu Yale: The cruel & greedy Yale benefactor who traded in Indian slaves - "Last month, Yale University issued a formal apology for the links its early leaders and benefactors had with slavery."
• Chronometers: What Are They & Should You Care? - "A chronometer usually refers to a watch that runs within a certain accuracy range. More specifically, this range is described and certified by Contrôle officiel suisse des Chronomètres (COSC). COSC is a Swiss non-profit organization that tests and certifies Swiss watches primarily for accuracy."
• The Year of the Great Recharge: Hilton Trends Report 2024 - "The Hilton Trends Report reveals 'Rest and Relaxation' to be top driver of travel decisions across generations in 2024."
• The Unwritten Rules of Bringing Wine to a Restaurant - "Collectors are bringing their wines to restaurants more and more. Here's the etiquette when you do decide to make use of corkage."
• How to track sleep on an Apple Watch - "It's easy to track sleep on an Apple Watch. We'll show you how: 1. Open the Sleep app on your Apple Watch. 2. Set your nightly goals, sleep and wake-up schedule. 3. Turn on Sleep Focus and set a Wind Down time. 4. Enable Sleep Tracking; turn on sleep and charging reminders. 5. View your recent sleep data."
• Messi the dog, mini monsters & a naked John Cena: the Oscars ceremony 2024 - in pictures - "The best pictures of the night from the 96th annual Academy Awards, with big wins for Oppenheimer, Ken-ergy and John Cena's pecs."
• Apple Could Launch Its Most Important Product Since the iPhone This Summer, According to a Pair of Wall Street Analysts - "Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) could use a new blockbuster product, and it could come as soon as this summer. At Apple's annual shareholder meeting, CEO Tim Cook promised investors the company will 'break new ground' on generative AI this year."
• Experimental Weight-Loss Pill Twice as Effective as Ozempic, Trial Shows - "An experimental new weight loss pill from Danish pharmaceutical giant Novo Nordisk could be twice as effective as its blockbuster Ozempic and Wegovy jabs, early results from a small trial have suggested, sending the firm's shares soaring."
• Kate's photo should have quelled the rumors. Editing it has done exactly the opposite - "Questions about the Mother’s Day image first emerged on social media. Given the princess' popularity, every inch of it was meticulously scrutinized and eagle-eyed royal-watchers quickly questioned the absence of either her wedding or engagement ring and the lush greenery in the background despite the currently bitter March temperatures."
• Dame Joan Collins, 90, oozes glamour in a black dress - "Enjoys date night with husband Percy Gibson, 59, after the Oscars."
• Scientists Reveal Optimal Number of Daily Steps to Offset Sitting Down - "The team found between 9,000 and 10,000 daily steps were optimal to counteract a highly sedentary lifestyle, lowering incident CVD risk by 21 percent and mortality risk by 39 percent. 'Any amount of daily steps above the referent 2,200 steps per day was associated with lower mortality and incident CVD risk, for low and high sedentary time.'"
• Radioactive waste, baby bottles & Spam - "The deep ocean has become a dumping ground. The ocean's depths are not some remote alien realm, but are in fact intimately entangled with every other part of the planet. We should treat them that way."
• Secret Doors Are Having a Major Moment - "Not Just for Scooby-Doo Anymore - the Secret Door Is Having a Moment. Homeowners are adding hidden doors and rooms to foil burglars, eke out extra storage space and prepare for Armageddon."
• Meet DALL-E, the A.I. That Draws Anything at Your Command - "New technology that blends language and images could serve graphic artists - and speed disinformation campaigns."
• 7 Google Gemini prompt ideas to try - "From recipes to stories of the AI takeover."
• 7 essential tips for writing ChatGPT prompts - "ChatGPT is a difficult tool to master, but these are the best tips out there for making the perfect prompt. 1: Be specific and clear. 2: Break down complex questions. 3: Use additional tools like Prompt Perfect. 4: Specify the output format. 5. Don't be afraid to iterate. 6: Give it constraints. 7: Use ChatGPT to improve your prompts."
• Klimt Landscapes | Neue Galerie NY - "This major exhibition of Gustav Klimt's (1862–1918) idyllic depictions in the landscape genre features significant paintings made while the artist was on his Sommerfrische (summer holiday) in the Austrian countryside."
• When Canceling Your Reservation Costs as Much as Dinner - "Fed up with no-shows and last-minute cancellations, restaurants are increasingly charging fees as high as $100 a head. And some diners are pushing back."
• The Rise of Super Strict Schools in England - "‘You Can Hear a Pin Drop’. Inspired by the academic success of schools like the Michaela secondary school in northwest London, some principals are introducing tight controls on students' behavior."
• How to use a compass bezel | WATCH EDUCATION - "Are compass bezels on watches actually useful?" A standard compass bezel is usually multidirectional and clickless. It has markers for north, south, east, and west, and is most often uncluttered as to make it imminently legible. For the uninitiated, a compass bezel is quite simple to use and only requires three steps - though, the instructions vary slightly between the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.
• And the Oscars go to ... - "Oscars 2024: the full list of winners."
• Oppenheimer swept the board at this year's Oscars ceremony, winning 7 awards - including Best Picture, Best Director and Best Actor for Cillian Murphy.
• Best red carpet looks at the 2024 Oscars - "The red carpet at Hollywood’s Dolby Theatre shimmered on Sunday, as the stars arrived at the Oscars in a flurry of sequins, sparkles and striking metallic gowns."
• The best new hotels for luxury watch shopping in the world - "Shopping for a new luxury watch? Wind your way through the world's ultimate travel destinations for browsing elite timepieces. We've rounded up a guide to the best new hotels in each region - along with the chic watches you'll be inspired to buy while you're there."
• Billionaire Bill Gates Has Over Half of His $42 Billion Portfolio Invested in These 3 Dividend Stocks - "Do billionaires like dividend stocks? Absolutely. Just take a look at the holdings of famous billionaire investors such as Warren Buffett and Ken Griffin. They're loaded with dividend stocks. Bill Gates stands out as another great example."
• Elon Musk Has a Giant Charity. Its Money Stays Close to Home - "After making billions in tax-deductible donations to his philanthropy, the owner of Tesla and SpaceX gave away far less than required in some years - and what he did give often supported his own interests."
• Jeremy Strong Isn't Sure He Knows Who He Is - "For years, Jeremy Strong was a relatively anonymous, steadily gigging actor. He did theater and some recurring TV work. Then 'Succession' changed everything. The hit HBO show, a biting satire about the emotionally dysfunctional, media-conglomerate-running Roy family, became an icon of 21st-century television. Within it, Strong created an icon of his own with his portrayal of the damaged and tragically self-defeating eldest son, Kendall Roy."
• How Erewhon Became L.A.'s Hottest Hangout - "With a little help from celebrities and influencers, the health food store became the place to see and be seen."
• Oscars 2024: How to watch & what to watch out for - "America's most glamorous election contest is finally drawing to a close. Yes, it's Oscars weekend."
• Oscars 2024: Final predictions for all 23 categories - "Oscar nerds will be on the edge of their seats."
• Oscar Parties 2024: Inside Hollywood's Red Carpet Parties & A-List Events - "Movie stars, auteurs, influencers and Hollywood insiders are already on the scene celebrating in the lead up to the 96th Oscars on Sunday, hosted by Jimmy Kimmel."
• What Do Sharon Stone's 'Basic Instinct' Dress & Oppenheimer's Suit Have in Common? - "The costume designer Ellen Mirojnick, who is nominated for her first Oscar for 'Oppenheimer,' is responsible for outfitting some of the most iconic films of the ’80s and ’90s."
• Razzie Awards 2024: 'Winnie the Pooh' horror movie, Sylvester Stallone, Megan Fox take top 'prizes' - "And the Razzie goes to... Every year around Oscars time, when the greatest in cinema is celebrated, an alternative awards ceremony is held that singles out the worst (at least, according to them) in movies - the Razzie Awards."
• Revisit the Tom Hanks Oscars acceptance speech that Spielberg called 'incredible' - "Thirty years ago, Tom Hanks delivered a performance that reverberated through Hollywood. And it wasn't in a movie. On March 21, 1994 - at the 66th Academy Awards - Hanks accepted the Best Actor statuette for his role in 'Philadelphia,' a drama about a gay lawyer slowly dying of AIDS. His acceptance speech quickly went down in history as one of the most memorable and moving in Oscar history."
• Bright & beautiful: lamps are the new living room status symbol - "Stylish lighting has replaced plants and vases as the new interior must-have, be it colourful, cordless or even works of art."
• I moved from Denmark to the US. I prefer the US, but there are some things the Danish do better - "This Danish business owner moved to Utah after swearing he'd never live in the US. He shares why he now prefers it to Denmark."
• Basic.Space - since 2017. "Shop Men's & Women's Fashion, Art, Lifestyle." A new shopping experience delivering curated fashion, vintage apparel, streetwear, & more by social influencers, designers, and artists. Our 500+ verified sellers consist of designers, artists, musicians, photographers, athletes, chefs and creatives. Shop from the people you trust. Shop Now!
• Important Sneakers & Modern Collectibles - "Sotheby's is pleased to host its inaugural auction of Important Sneakers and Modern Collectibles in Paris. This exciting event features a diverse mix of property spanning art, streetwear, pop culture, and design - all representing the dynamic landscape of contemporary creativity." March 14-26.
• Ozempic or Tesla? Markets are in no doubt which is hotter - "First, Novo Nordisk, the company behind Ozempic and Wegovy, outgrew its native Denmark. Now, it's bigger than Tesla. Shares in the pharmaceutical giant rose jumped more than 8% Thursday, pushing its market capitalization to $609 billion, about $40 billion more than Tesla's valuation."
• George Clooney Surprised 14 Of His Best Friends With $1 Million In Cash Each - "'I've slept on their couches when I was broke,' he said. 'They loaned me money when I was broke. And we're all really close, and I just thought basically if I get hit by a bus, they're all in the will. So why the f*** am I waiting to get hit by a bus?'"
• Jake Paul to face boxing legend Mike Tyson in July exhibition fight - "YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul is set to face heavyweight legend Mike Tyson in an exhibition boxing match on July 20. The event will be broadcast exclusively on Netflix and held at the 80,000-seat capacity AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, home of the NFL's Dallas Cowboys."
• How an airplane toilet works at 40,000 feet - "The extraordinary science behind everyday flying."
• Photographer steps inside Vietnam's shadowy 'click farms' - "The shadowy enterprises that help clients artificially boost online traffic and social media engagement in the hope of manipulating algorithms and user perceptions."
• 31 Coffee Brands, Ranked From Worst To Best - "Having an underwhelming brew can spoil your day, while a flavorful one can provide an inspiring start. In today's world of depressing news, there is no time to waste on a bad cup of coffee."
• Beginner's Guide On How to Use AI in Daily Life & Work - "AI can help anyone work smarter, not harder. However, many people with nontechnical backgrounds can feel intimidated and overwhelmed by the pace of technological change. But most are already using AI without even realizing it. Whether it's a personalized recommendation on Netflix, Spotify, or Amazon or even editing selfies, these are just a few examples of AI seamlessly integrating into our daily lives, making technology more intuitive and helpful."
• I Recreated the Most Iconic Photos of All Time With AI in Just One Day - "Using AI programs Midjourney and DALL-E, we attempted to recreate some of the greatest photographs ever taken. AI image generators are trained on millions - even billions - of photos. It is safe to assume the vast majority of these photos are copyrighted and used without permission."
• Breguet Showcases The Art Of Watchmaking With Its 'Inhabiting Time' Exhibition At Frieze Los Angeles - "For the second year in a row, the historic Swiss watch manufacturer Breguet partnered with the Frieze International Art Fair to create a series of exhibitions that explore the intersection between watchmaking and art."
• Takeaways from Biden's State of the Union address - "A majority of Americans say he hasn’t accomplished much, many Democrats aren't thrilled at the prospect of him running for reelection and he faces clear disdain from most Republicans."
• Oscars 2024: Final predictions for all 23 categories - "Oscar nerds will be on the edge of their seats."
• Get an Inside Look at the Oscars Greenroom, Designed by Rolex - "During the telecast, nominees and presenters will calm jitters, celebrate and schmooze in the Dolby Theatre's backstage VIP lounge, done in tonal hues of blue and green mixed with sustainably sourced materials."
• MacBook Air M3 benchmarks - here's how it compares to MacBook Pro & Windows - "Apple's new MacBook Air M3 goes on sale tomorrow (March 8), and after spending a few days reviewing both a 13-inch and a 15-inch model we can finally tell you exactly how well it performs in our testing lab."
• 'Super rich ex-wives who hate their former spouse should filed be listed among 'Reasons that Western Civilization died,' - Elon Musk wrote in an X post referencing Jeff Bezos' ex-wife.
• 11 questions to take stock of your emotional well-being - "How Are You, Really? This self-guided check-in will help you take stock of your emotional well-being - and learn how to make changes."
• 43 FSA eligible items to spend your FSA dollars on in 2024 - "You bought new eyeglasses, squeaked in a dental appointment and stocked up on over-the-counter drugs. But if there’s still money in your flexible spending account (FSA), you better spend those pretax FSA funds quickly before the deadline hits and they all disappear."
• Your First Step Toward a Better Mood - "Poor sleep can make anxiety, depression and other mental health issues worse. Here's what to do about it."
• A Simple Way to Build Intimacy: Reading Aloud - "Why adults should read aloud to one another, and a few recommendations to get you started. Start with something short. Find any opportunity to read. Focus on your connection rather than getting every word right."
• Daniel Craig's Mysterious White Dial Omega Speedmaster - "The White-Dial Omega Moonwatch Has Officially Landed. Officially approved by NASA for use in space in 1965, the Speedmaster Professional is the first watch to be worn on the moon (hence the nickname) and an enduring design that's garnered a cult-like following in the decades since."
• Wall Street's War on Soho House - "Soho House, now known even to your small-town aunt as the place Prince Harry met Meghan Markle. Hungry for growth, the publicly-traded company has opened clubs around the world and welcomed finance types at the expense of artsy exclusivity. Now short-sellers are on the attack, class-action lawyers are circling and the besieged brand is considering going private again."
• More climate records fall in world's warmest February - "Last month was the world's warmest February in modern times, the EU's climate service says, extending the run of monthly records to nine in a row."
• Celebrities who demand the impossible: The outrageous travel requests of the world's most famous faces - "'Most things are available for a price.' Secrets of a celebrity travel agent."
• OpenAI publishes Elon Musk's emails - "'We're sad that it's come to this.'"
• World's best spicy foods: 20 dishes to try - "When it comes to the world's best spicy dishes, we have some of the world's hottest peppers to thank, along with incredible layers of flavor and a long, spice-loving human history."
• The Top 6 Most Expensive HermÈs Birkin Bags - "The Hermès Birkin bag is an iconic bag named after the actress Jane Birkin. It has been reinvented many times since it was first introduced to the public in the 1980s. The Hermès bag's classic elements include two rolled handles, a flap top, a touret, a clochette, and four clou 'feet'. Read on to discover the rarest and most expensive Birkin bags."
• 'We've all been wounded': Patti Davis on secrets, abuse & life as Ronald Reagan's daughter - "To the outside world, she was wrapped up in the love of the perfect family. In reality, she was struggling with her father's remoteness, her mother Nancy's rages - and worse. The actor and author looks back on years of unhappiness."
• Desperate Housewives, codpieces & eBay: the best of Paris fashion week autumn/winter 2024 - in pictures - "Nicolas Ghesquière celebrated a decade of innovation at Louis Vuitton, there were highly anticipated designer debuts at Chloé and Alexander McQueen and Victoria Beckham took to the catwalk on crutches."
• The heavy hand of God: Europe's brutalist churches - in pictures - "Vienna-based photographer Jamie McGregor Smith has spent years travelling the continent in search of sacred spaces that allowed architects' imaginations to run wild."
• The Sudden Fall of ebook Sales - "In today's era of digitalization, when everyone is buying subscriptions for online content, physical books are giving hard competition to e-books."
• Use Check In on iPhone to let your friends know you've arrived - "Send a Check In. Open the Messages app on your iPhone. at the top of the screen and add a recipient, or select an existing conversation, tap More, tap Check In, then tap Edit."
• 22 watch hands every collector should know - "Everything you need to know about the different watch hands in the world of timepieces, from Rolex's Lightning Bolt to Omega's Rocket Ship."
• Apple Releases iOS 17.4 & iPadOS 17.4 With EU App Changes, New Emoji, Podcast Transcripts & More - "With iOS 17.4, Apple introduces sweeping changes to the way the App Store and apps function in the European Union, paving the way for alternative app marketplaces on iPhone. In addition to these App Store-related updates, iOS 17.4 adds new emoji characters, transcripts for podcasts in the Podcasts app, Stopwatch Live Activities, improvements to battery health reporting on the iPhone 15 models, and more."
• The Lindbergh Baby Kidnapping: A Grisly Theory & a Renewed Debate - "New speculation about the toddler's death and pressure to force DNA testing of evidence have revived scrutiny of what was known as the 'crime of the century.'"
• MH370: one of aviation's biggest mysteries remains unsolved 10 years on - "A decade has passed since the plane veered wildly off course during a routine flight to Beijing and disappeared but, despite one of the largest and most expensive multinational searches in history, one of aviation’s greatest mysteries remains unsolved. Relatives of passengers lost onboard ill-fated flight wonder whether a repeat disaster could happen, and if they will get an answer in their lifetime."
• The Maldives Is a Tiny Paradise. Why Are China & India Fighting Over It? - "Asia's two giants are crowding the island nation with building projects, tossing its newborn democracy to and fro."
• Can the Panama Canal save itself? - "The most famous waterway in the Americas is running dry. Unlike the Suez Canal, the Panama Canal is fed by a freshwater lake, Lake Gatún, and its water level is falling critically low. A lack of rain and the El Niño weather phenomenon have contributed to the second driest year in the canal's 110-year history."
• New Florence airport terminal will have a vineyard on its roof - "The structure will serve 'as a new landmark for the city's sustainable future,' according to the firm, and as an homage to the region's wine-producing heritage, it will have a vineyard on the roof."
• France's favorite cheese is facing an 'extinction' crisis. Not everyone is worried - "Camembert's distinctive white rind is created by a fungus that scientists say is in increasingly short supply. When Napoleon first encountered a Camembert cheese, legend has it, he was so delighted he kissed the waitress who plonked it in front of him. Setting aside the inappropriateness of this gesture, the French emperor clearly recognized a winner."
• Oscars 2024: Why Maestro should win the best picture Oscar - "Bradley Cooper studied conducting for six years to perfect his role as Leonard Bernstein in his extraordinary biopic of the great US composer."
• Go Behind the Scenes of All 10 Best Picture Oscar Nominees - "In these videos, directors walked us through pivotal scenes from their Academy Award-nominated films. These were some of the questions that faced the directors of the 10 best picture nominees for the 2024 Academy Awards, which air on Sunday."
• 'It doesn’t feel special': is Soho House a victim of its own success? - "Chain of private members' clubs under pressure as it reports full-year results this week, with some claiming rapid expansion has robbed it of its exclusivity."
• Every step above 2,200 steps a day reduces risk of early death, study finds - "Research suggests every extra step up to 10,000 reduces risk even if rest of the day is sedentary."
• The umbrella that beat out 47 others - "We've Inverted and Drenched Almost 50 Umbrellas. This One is Our Favorite."
• Jeff Bezos dethrones Elon Musk to become the richest person on earth again - "The Amazon founder's net worth was $200 billion, while Musk followed at $198 billion. Musk has lost about $31 billion over the past year, while Bezos has gained $23 billion, according to Bloomberg Billionaires Index."
• Bitcoin surges to a new record high as mainstream money flows into crypto - "Bitcoin, the world's first and by-far largest digital currency, was trading at $68,791, topping the previous record of $68,789 reached on November 10, 2021."
• Gold shines brightest in history as prices hit record high of $2,126 - "Gold prices made a historic surge to hit a life-time high of $2,126 per ounce at the close on March 4, marking the highest closing since the inception of contracts in 1974."
• Do Designers Really Expect Us to Wear Runway Fashion? - "Our critic explains why runway shows feature outfits far more outlandish than the ones most of us actually wear."
• Patmos: The Greek island where the end of the world began - "This is the place from where infernal visions of mankind's ultimate downfall sprang - inspiring St. John to write the Book of Revelation which forms the closing pages of the New Testament and gives the Bible some of its most portentous descriptions."
• Diet drinks boost risk of dangerous heart condition by 20%, study says - "Drinking two liters or more per week of artificially sweetened beverages - the equivalent of a medium-sized fast-food diet soda a day - raised the risk of an irregular heartbeat called atrial fibrillation by 20% when compared to people who drank none, a new study found."
• Cheap Daily Supplement Seems to Boost Brain Function in Older Adults - "What's good for your aging gut may also be good for your aging brain. The first twin study of its kind suggests that taking daily protein and prebiotic supplements can improve scores on memory tests in people over the age of 60."
• Roman Polanski tried in France for alleged defamation of British actor - "Film-maker held to account for dismissing claim of 1983 sexual assault against Charlotte Lewis as 'heinous lie'."
• From £35 crystals to £30,000 diamonds: the jaw-dropping rise of tooth jewellery - "More and more Britons are putting their money where their mouth is, whether it's in the form of Swarovski crystals or 'grills' made with gems and precious metals. What's the appeal - and what are the dangers?"
• How to Organize Your Travel With This Little-Known Google Maps Feature - "If you haven't spent a lot of time inside Google Maps - besides getting from A to B and finding the nearest restaurant or bar - then you might not know about all the various features stuffed into the app since it first launched in 2005. One of those features is lists. Lists can help you in your travels, and you can share them with others."
• Your VO2 max is like a '401(k) for longevity' - "Here's how to invest in it for better heart health and a longer life."
• 15 Most Beautiful Cities in Europe That Everyone Should See Once - "These captivating destinations that should be on everyone’s must-visit list."
• The 86 best tech gifts every gadget fan needs in 2024 - "We've picked out the absolute must-have gadgets from 2024 to help you figure out what you should be buying for the ultimate tech lover."
• Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg, Rihanna & Ivanka Trump among bevy of stars at Indian billionaire heir's pre-wedding bash - "Mark Zuckerberg, Bill Gates and Ivanka Trump were among the high-profile international figures who jetted to India for billionaire heir Anant Ambani's extravagant pre-wedding party, which wrapped up Sunday."
• Lord Lucan & the Enduring Mystery of Who Killed Sandra Rivett - "It has been 50 years since the 7th Earl of Lucan disappeared after allegedly killing his children's nanny. Is there something about this age old tale of rich people getting off scot-free that keeps us all obsessed?"
• How to clean an iPhone charge port - "Eliminate power problems by cleaning your iPhone charging port."
• 8 pilots, 12 obstacles, 90-second heats & 'utter chaos': The world's first jet suit race - "From futuristic architecture to pioneering infrastructure, Dubai is no stranger to weird, wonderful, and downright wacky innovation. But on Wednesday, the 'City of Superlatives' went full sci-fi when eight pilots, suited and booted like Marvel’s 'Iron Man,' took to the skies."
• Larry David Is Setting Up The Perfect Seinfeld Reunion We've Been Waiting The Last 15 Years For - "With continued callbacks to the hit sitcom, Curb Your Enthusiasm season 12 is setting up another Seinfeld reunion for the first time in 15 years."
• Bradley Cooper's bizarre bedroom layout rethinks conventions & experts say it's a growing luxury trend - "The Maestro actor has changed everything we knew about the bedroom, but we may be seeing more of this peculiar design."
• Do mattress toppers actually work or are they a waste of money? - "Thinking of buying a mattress topper but unsure on whether they work and if they're worth it? Read this first."
• 3 fun AI prompts to try this weekend on ChatGPT, Copilot, Gemini & more - "Getting the most out of artificial intelligence tools comes down to wording your prompt. Yes you can customize settings or tweak the options buttons, but at the heart its taking something you type and turning it into something completely different."
• Here's how to use the full 48MP iPhone 15 camera - "1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone 15/15 Plus, 15 Pro/Pro Max, or iPhone 14 Pro/Pro Max. 2. Swipe down and tap Camera. 3. Now choose Formats at the top. 4. Tap the toggle next to ProRAW & Resolution Control."
• Ski resorts' era of plentiful snow may be over due to climate crisis, study finds - "US ski industry is losing billions as average season has become five to seven days shorter in past half century."
• best sipping whiskeys, ranked - "It might seem like an oversimplification, but two kinds of whiskey exist. First are the whisk(e)ys that are cheaper, less mature, and better suited for mixing into your favorite cocktails than drinking on their own. The second kind of whiskey is so complex, nuanced, long-matured, and flavorful that it deserves to be sipped on the rocks or with a splash or two of water. The latter is what we’re most concerned with today."
• 'The greatest genius ever': remarkable Leonardo da Vinci manuscripts to go on show in Australia - "From a retractable bridge to the famous flying machine, the Codex Atlanticus offers a gateway into the brilliance of Leonardo's mind."
• Actor Noomi Rapace: 'I came from a poor farm, I'm not educated, no one opened doors for me' - "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo star on playing an astronaut, the significance of her surname and the time Orlando Bloom broke her nose."
• The Big Number: $68,789 - "Bitcoin has not yet reached its previous record high - $68,789.63 - but investors are watching as it gets tantalizingly close. On Friday morning, its price hovered around $62,000."
• Apple TV+ adds a limited time library of 50 movies to stream for free - "Apple TV+ has launched a limited time collection of movies to stream for free as part of your Apple TV+ subscription."
• Apple Maps vs. Google Maps: Which Is Better? - "Based on anecdotal reports, Apple Maps is increasingly recommended by users for its cleaner view versus the more cluttered design of Google Maps."
• Charles Dickens' pocket watch up for auction - "The open-faced key-wind watch dates from 1836 and was gifted to the famous author on the first anniversary of his editorship of the magazine Bentleys Miscellany. The watch, along with a desk set, both come from Dickens' descendants and will go on sale in Chichester, West Sussex, U.K."
• Iris Apfel dead at 102 - "Fashion icon and self-proclaimed 'geriatric starlet' passed at her home in Palm Beach, Florida."

March, 2024

• The Centurion Card from American Express - "A $5,000-a-year status symbol few can actually get. Those who are invited to apply will unlock an unparalleled trove of benefits. The Centurion Black card functions less like a credit card and more of an exclusive membership for the 1% of the 1%. Perhaps most importantly, its high-profile, hard-to-get status means that those who do obtain it get the ultimate bragging rights."
• Turn Off Inline Predictive Text in 4 Easy Steps - "Here's how to disable your iPhone's inline predictive text if you find the feature annoying: 1. Open Settings. 2. Tap General. 3. Tap Keyboard. 4. Tap the switch next to Predictive Text."
• REVOLUTIONIZING COFFEE BREWING WITH CENTRIFUGAL EXTRACTION & PRECISION CONTROL TECHNOLOGY - "If you desire more than a quick cup of coffee or yearn for a variety of flavors that extend beyond a pod, the KUKU Maker is for you. It's a revolutionary machine that combines high-tech brewing and extraction features with the satisfying experience of old-school hand-poured coffee."
• Top 50 Swiss Watch Companies of 2023 According to Morgan Stanley - "Rolex Breaks the CHF 10 billion Barrier. Morgan Stanley and LuxeConsult's latest industry report shows the clear winner(s) of 2023."
• The Most Iconic Chronograph Watches of All Time - "Of all the watch complications out there - and there are a lot of them - the chronograph is perhaps the most useful. Essentially a separate stopwatch built into a wristwatch, chronographs can be used for timing all sorts of things. Historically, chronograph watches have functioned as invaluable tools for some of the world’s most daring occupations."
• Ultra-processed food (UPF) is directly linked to 32 harmful effects to health - including a higher risk of heart disease, cancer, type 2 diabetes, adverse mental health and early death, according to the world’s largest review of its kind.
• How a Nutrition Expert Really Eats - "We asked a nutrition professor and dietitian how she keeps up healthy habits without stressing about food."
• The ironic effects of dietary restraint in situations that undermine self-regulation - "Depriving yourself of favorite foods can backfire, research suggests, because it can make you crave them more, leading to overeating."
• Yes, Larry David Brings His Own Eggs to Country Club Meals - "'Sometimes the difference between real Larry and TV Larry is vast. And sometimes, there's no difference at all,' says executive producer Jeff Schaffer."
• Geri Halliwell lands in Bahrain on a private jet to meet Christian Horner - having taken off before 'leaked texts' email - as her Red Bull F1 chief husband is hauled in for scandal crisis talks with sport's bosses."
• The Mind-Boggling Simplicity of Learning to Say 'No' - "Keeping a notebook of every opportunity she declined helped the writer Leslie Jamison realize what matters most."
• Cat's Meows Are So Misunderstood - "It's the Cat's Meow but You Just Don't Understand. A study suggests that humans often misinterpret a pet's signals; even purring doesn't guarantee a contented cat. What is the meaning of a cat's meow that grows louder and louder? Or your pet's sudden flip from softly purring as you stroke its back to biting your hand?"
• How To Lock Any iPhone App Behind Face ID, Touch ID, or a Passcode - "Give certain apps an extra layer of security protection. Tap on New Automation if you haven't previously created any automation or the + (plus) button in the top right corner if you have. From the list that pops up, select App, then on the next screen, tap on Choose to pick the app(s) you want to lock away - you can choose more than one, if necessary."
• You Don't Need to Use Airplane Mode on Airplanes - "Airplane mode hasn't been necessary for nearly 20 years, but the myth persists."
• Tube of Ancient Red Lipstick Unearthed in Iran - "New research suggests the nearly 4,000-year-old cosmetic may be among the oldest discoveries of its kind."
• Meet Microsoft Office's new default font: Aptos - "Microsoft is replacing its Calibri default font with Aptos, a new sans-serif typeface that's inspired by mid-20th-century Swiss typography. Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Excel all get a new default font."
• Apple Music launches new personal 'Heavy Rotation' mix, updated daily - "Apple Music has launched a new personalized playlist feature today, with users noticing a new 'Heavy Rotation' mix in their Made for You section. Heavy Rotation features the songs you are listening to a lot, and the mix is a great way to blast some of your recent favorites. The list of tracks is updated daily."
• Apple cancels electric car project after a decade - "Apple pulls the plug on trying to create its own electric car after a decade, plans to reassign 2,000 workers to AI projects."
• How to use Google Maps Glanceable navigation on iPhone - "Tapping the blue dot on the map, which pinpoints your current location, is the faster way to enable and disable Glanceable navigation. When the feature is enabled, you'll see the dot change to an arrow."
• New AI image generator is 8 times faster than OpenAI's best tool & can run on cheap computers - "Scientists used 'knowledge distillation' to condense Stable Diffusion XL into a much leaner, more efficient AI image generation model that can run on low-cost hardware."
• THE PARADISE DESTROYED BY THE STRAIGHT LINE - "'The straight line is the only sterile line, the only line which does not suit man as the image of God. The straight line is the forbidden fruit. The straight line is the curse of our civilization. Any design undertaken with the straight line will be stillborn.'"
• Why Nepo Babies Crowd the Fashion Runways - "The casting craze for celebrity kids hit the big time with the likes of Gigi Hadid and Kendall Jenner. In 2024, the trend is not slowing down."
• How a Nepo Baby Is Born - "Hollywood has always loved the children of famous people. In 2022, the internet reduced them to two little words."
• 15 Best Curb Your Enthusiasm Episodes Of All Time, Ranked - "From 'The Doll' to 'Palestinian Chicken,' Curb Your Enthusiasm has delivered plenty of classic episodes throughout its two decades on the air."
• Stanley Kubrick's favourite Ingmar Bergman movie - "With Wild Strawberries, it’s easy to see how Bergman can be neatly placed as one of Kubrick’s most potent influences, providing a unique viewpoint on a universal set of subjects."
• The San Francisco hotel that Hunter S. Thompson feared, loathed & loved - "SFGATE contributor Christian Baba explores the history of the room where the gonzo journalist wrote 'Fear and Loathing on the Campaign Trail '72'."
• How Chanel No. 5 Became a Necklace - "The accessory - which doubles as a diamond ring - takes its inspiration from the design of the iconic perfume bottle."
• A Beginner's Guide To The GMT Bezel - "Caller or flyer, it's all about how you spin it."
• What would happen if we didn't have leap years? - "CNN answers the question on many people's minds this February 29: Why do we add an extra day? Over the course of centuries, a calendar with no leap years would eventually become totally out of sync with the seasons as we know them. Let's see what would happen."
• The Longest Living People In the World All Abide by the 'Power 9' Rule - "Here's how to structure your days, so that you're setting yourself up for a long and healthy life. 1. Move naturally, 2. Say yes to happy hour, 3. Take time to down shift."
• A healthier option than the Magnificent 7? Meet Europe's 'Granolas' - "Dubbed the 'Granolas,' those 11 companies accounted for 60% of the gains on Europe's benchmark stock index over the past 12 months. They have even slightly outperformed the Magnificent 7 over a longer period, according to Goldman Sachs. The Granolas - an acronym coined by the bank in 2020 to describe Europe's biggest companies by market capitalization at the time - comprise GSK, Roche, ASML, Nestlé, Novartis, Novo Nordisk, L’Oréal, LVMH, AstraZeneca, SAP and Sanofi."
• Warren Buffett says you should never trust a financial pundit - "It's like finding gold and then 'handing the map to the neighbors showing its location'."
• Look of the Week: Monica Lewinsky reclaims office power dressing in new campaign - "The image is part of a new campaign Lewinsky is fronting for LA-based apparel brand Reformation. Throughout, she is a statuesque figure, striking power poses in a monochrome red twinset or a tailored vest and tie."
• an eco cruise in Norway's far north - "'It is magical to swim surrounded by the Arctic winter in all its brutal glory.'"
• The making of an icon: The Louis Vuitton trunk - "Unlocking the secrets of the iconic Louis Vuitton trunk in Asnières, France, the historic home of the Vuitton family."
• Alain Delon: Police seize 72 guns from French film star's home - "French police have seized 72 firearms and more than 3,000 rounds of ammunition from the home of screen legend Alain Delon. A shooting range was also found at the actor's home in Douchy-Montcorbon, about 135km south of Paris."
• How to Create the Best Kind of Cozy Space: a Room That’s Like a Hug - "'You can call it different things,' said one designer, but it 'all adds up to the same idea: You feel like you want to put your feet up.' Wrap the Walls - Soften the Floor - Use Atmospheric Lighting - Embrace the ..."
• 6 Simple Ways to Make Your Home Instantly Cozier - "From a refined color scheme to a surge of textures, here’s proof that comfort and style can go hand in hand."
• Here's how to use quick crop on iPhone Photos app in iOS 17 - "How to use quick crop on iPhone Photos app in iOS 17: 1. On iPhone (running iOS 17), open the Photos app. 2. Find a photo you'd like to crop and view it. 3. Do a two-finger expand gesture on the photo. 4. Tap the Crop button in the top right corner (or long press on the Crop button to change the aspect ratio then tap Crop again)."
• Formula One 2024: team-by-team guide to the cars & drivers - "As impending shockwaves rumble off-track, Bahrain opener provides hope for Verstappen and Red Bull’s rivals to step up."
• Bill Gates Considers Himself To Be A 'Very Nice' Boss Compared To Elon Musk & Steve Jobs - "But His Microsoft Co-Founder Described Working With Him As 'Being In Hell'."
• Warren Buffett sees 'no possibility of eye-popping performance' as Berkshire Hathaway cash hoard hits record $167.6 billion - "'There remain only a handful of companies in this country capable of truly moving the needle at Berkshire, and they have been endlessly picked over by us and by others,' Buffett said in his annual shareholder letter, which the company released alongside its results on Saturday."
• Elon Musk makes 'things good' with California bakery after $2,000 pie fiasco - "Tesla had ditched an order for 4,000 mini pies, but the X owner paid the debt after the incident received attention."
• Tourists have returned to North Korea for the first time since the pandemic. Here's what they saw - "Many Russian tourists have found themselves locked out of tourism destinations. But North Korea - as a key Russian ally - offered a rare opportunity to travel."
• The world's smallest flag carrier airlines - "What is a flag carrier? Although there's no official definition for the term, in aviation a flag carrier is usually a country's most representative airline, flying the largest number of international routes."
• Where Did the 'True Detective' Magic Go? To Another Show. - "It just doesn't bring what the first one brought: The lead actors don't have the chemistry that the leads in the original enjoyed, there's nothing in the structure to match the effective flashback framing used in Season 1."
• How to Use ChatGPT's Memory Feature - "The latest update to OpenAI's chatbot improves the AI's ability to remember user details, but the feature is not yet available for all ChatGPT accounts."
• Everybody Writes: a Beginner's Guide to Pens - "For watches, we have the option for quartz and mechanical movements, as well as a number of hybrid and exotic options. And for pens, there are three broad categories which encompass the majority of writing utensils on the market: rollerball, ballpoint, and fountain pen."
• Elections tracker 2024: every vote & why it matters - "More than 80 countries, more than half the world's population, will vote this year in elections that could be pivotal for democracy."
• 30 Most Walkable Cities In The World - "Walking is an exercise with many health benefits, including a lower risk of diabetes, stroke, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and high blood pressure, as well as improved mental health."
• Eiffel Tower reopens to visitors after strike by workers who complained of rust - "Paris attraction was closed for six days after union criticised operator for seeking ‘short-term profitability’. The Eiffel Tower has reopened to visitors after a six-day strike by employees demanding changes to the landmark's business model and better maintenance of the 330m (1,083ft) structure, which is showing widespread traces of rust."
• Billionaires' Survivalist Bunkers Go Absolutely Bonkers With Fiery Moats & Water Cannons - "Amid 'World War III' fears, apocalypse-fearing moguls are investing millions in survival strategies including rotating fireplaces out of 'Indiana Jones' and heightened tactical systems."
• What It's Like to Be a Sociopath - "Traits may include lack of remorse, deceitfulness and a disregard for the feelings of others as well as right and wrong. associated with sociopathy aren't great. But that only tells part of the story. The part that's missing is you can be a sociopath and have a healthy relationship."
• How HermÈs became the ultimate status symbol - "Its core products haven't changed much in decades, it does not have TikTok, and doesn't give celebrities free handbags. That scarcity-of-product approach helped Hermès hit an annual revenue of $14.5 billion last year and gain a market cap of over $250 billion."
• The Two-Decade Fight for Two Letters on the Internet - "The South Pacific island of Niue says it was cheated out of .nu, a domain that turned out to be very lucrative on the other side of the world. It turned out that .nu was, in fact, very valuable. 'Nu' means now in Swedish, Danish and Dutch, and thousands of Scandinavians registered websites with that suffix."
• The Best Writing Pens, According to Authors, Artists & Other Creatives - "For note-taking, journaling or as gifts, enjoy the power of these pens."
• Here's why the $3,500 Apple Vision Pro headset is so expensive - "The Vision Pro includes lots of pricey state-of-the-art parts. One estimate from research firm Omdia puts the 'bill of materials' for the headset at $1,542, and that doesn't include the costs of research and development, packaging, marketing or Apple's profit margin."
• I had lunch at the oldest cafÉ in Venice - "It dates back to the 1700s, has become a tourist hot spot - and wasn't worth the high bill. Caffe Florian claims to be the oldest café in Italy and the second-oldest in Europe. Once popular with some of history's most famous names, it's now a tourist hot spot."
• Ray Winstone: 'I don’t wanna talk about acting!' - "With three new projects shortly to be released, the screen's favourite hardman gets stuck into politics, family, Sunday lunch and 'cockney morality'."
• Jacob Rothschild, financier & member of the banking family, dies at 87 - "City grandee and hereditary peer co-founded a number of companies and was also involved in the arts."
• Antarctica sea ice reaches alarming low for third year in a row - "The extent of ice floating around the continent has contracted to below 2m sq km for three years in a row, indicating an 'abrupt critical transition'."
• 30th annual screen actors guild awards - "Outstanding Film And Television Performances Honored at the 30th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards."
• Photos: Screen Actors Guild Award winners 2024 - "CNN Entertainment."
• How to Pack for a Two-Week Trip With One Small Suitcase - "Expert advice from professional travelers on what to bring and where to put it. Begin by laying any bulky sweaters flat at the bottom of one half of your suitcase, with the sleeves and any extra fabric flowing over the sides ..."
• How to Pack: Travel Smart for Any Trip - "It’s time to pack perfect. Every trip, every time. Your journey starts here." Amazon.com.
• Using books as interior design? It's a trend with a tale - "The appeal of bookshelf wealth and its ensuing outrage tells us something uncomfortable about our culture. 'Bookshelf wealth' has been named 2024’s “first major design trend”. This is the new name for a home stacked with hundreds of carefully curated books and it is situated as the interior design version of fashion’s 'quiet luxury'."
• The Tesla Cybertruck is impressive & worrying - "The Tesla Cybertruck looks like nothing else on the road. And its size – it's not quite as long as a Ford F-150 but somehow looks even bigger - is even more eye-catching. There's a lot to like about the Cybertruck, but it also embodies a disturbing level of individual arrogance in hard, unforgiving steel."
• 'Scandals & secrets': On board the world's most exclusive private residential ship - "It's a floating city exclusively home to the 1%, a playground for multimillionaires and billionaires that circumnavigates the world's oceans."
• It's not just what you eat, according to a doctor. It's when & how - "What you eat and don't eat can reduce your risk of medical conditions such as heart disease and cancer and increase life expectancy, according to decades of research. But while much of the advice focuses on what not to eat, I also wanted to learn more about when and how people can eat to optimize their health."
• Eight of the world's most remarkable homes - "From Jaipur to Whistler, eight extraordinary, award-winning houses that are both beautiful and low-energy."
• Eating more kiwi fruit could boost your mental health in just a few days - "A recent study found that eating kiwi fruit can help boost mood within days among people with low vitamin C levels."
• No small talk: how conversation cards became our favorite way to connect - "Conversation card games can be entertaining at parties - and help us foster deep connections and intimacy, which can otherwise be elusive."
• Dynasty trust - "The Bezos clan and other ultra-rich American families use 1 specific legal maneuver to pass wealth up to a whopping 40 more generations - here's how they protect their hoard."
• Gait speed is one of your vital signs, so make sure yours is OK - "Your walking speed can also be an indicator of your health. In fact, it's gaining traction as one of your vital signs, along with body temperature, pulse rate, respiration rate, blood pressure and oxygen saturation."
• Odysseus becomes first US spacecraft to land on moon in over 50 years - "Artist Jeff Koons makes history with a sculpture on the moon."
• China, the world's biggest polluter, at risk of missing climate targets, new report finds - "In an effort to bring planet-heating pollution to a peak by 2030, China has vowed to 'strictly control' new coal-fired generation capacity, and has also connected record numbers of new wind and solar plants to its grid."
• Airbus A340 airplane was built to rule long-haul travel. Now it's vanishing from the skies - "The A340 was introduced 30 years ago with Lufthansa and Air France, but only 380 have been produced since, the last in 2012. The A340 has been the aircraft of choice for some heads of government. By comparison, Airbus has already made 565 of its successor, the A350, since its introduction in 2015."
• ‘Amusing insight’ revealed in Marx's ‘Das Kapital’ gift to Darwin - "'With most of its pages remaining uncut, it seems Darwin gave up any attempt to read it,' reads the statement, which adds that Darwin took almost three months to send a dry note of thanks to Marx. February 12 marked the 215th anniversary of Darwin’s birthday, and a research team virtually reassembled his impressive library in his honor. The Darwin Online project released a 300-page catalog that compiles the original 7,400 titles and 13,000 volumes originally owned by Darwin. The catalog includes 9,300 links to copies of the library contents that are available for free online, inviting the public to peruse what Darwin read."
• Huge cybersecurity leak lifts lid on world of China's hackers for hire - "A big leak of data from a Chinese cybersecurity firm has revealed state security agents paying tens of thousands of pounds to harvest data on targets, including foreign governments, while hackers hoover up huge amounts of information on any person or institution who might be of interest to their prospective clients. The cache of more than 500 leaked files from the Chinese firm I-Soon was posted on the developer website Github and is thought by cybersecurity experts to be genuine."
• Freestyle Chess plans 2025 global Tour for Carlsen & the world's top players - "The world No 1's impressive victory last week has put the random chess variant into the spotlight and its billionaire organiser plans to expand into all five continents next year."
• London fashion week autumn/winter 2024 - in pictures - "From Maria Callas and Le Corbusier to nosy neighbours and Queen Victoria's mourning dress, the inspirations at London fashion week were eclectic and surprising."
• How Best to Charge Your Phone, Explained by an Expert - "The Right Way to Charge Your Phone Isn’t as Obvious as You Might Think. An expert explains how often to charge, how much to fill up and more to help your phone's battery enjoy a long, healthy and fruitful life."
• How to Apologize Like You Mean It - "Here are six steps for making amends, according to experts."
• The 13 Best Travel Organizers for Shoes, Jewelry, Tech & More - "Give everything its own place next time you travel with these convenient containers and pouches."
• Your mug could impact the flavor of your coffee, experts claim - here's why - "In curating your overall coffee experience, the mug from which you drink it is just as important as the way you brew it. The ritual of drinking coffee, which includes what mug one drinks out of, can experientially influence a person's perception - thereby altering taste."
• Elon Musk claims he's creating a Gmail rival dubbed 'XMail' - "In an exchange on his social media platform X, Musk has revealed that a product called 'XMail' is 'coming'. He's offered no more details about the service, so it's unclear when it may be available, although it's expected to be integrated within the X app."
• Near-limitless clean energy may be one step closer - "Scientists pursuing fusion energy say they have found a way to overcome one of their biggest challenges to date - by using artificial intelligence."
• ‘Taking the pulse of the planet’: how monitoring nature from space could keep Earth healthy - "With current data on global biodiversity either lacking or flawed, a global satellite scheme aims to fill the gaps to target protection of our seas, soils and wildlife."
• Eating to save nature? Embrace potatoes, ditch meat & track your beans - "The impact of meat on the environment is well known, but what about staples such as rice and legumes?"
• Joe Biden dog Commander bit Secret Service agents at least 24 times - "US Secret Service records show the extent to which the German Shepherd caused chaos for the presidential bodyguards."
• Whale song mystery solved by scientists - "Scientists have worked out how some of the largest whales in the ocean produce their haunting and complex songs. Humpbacks and other baleen whales have evolved a specialised 'voice box' that enables them to sing underwater."
• The experts: interior designers on 20 brilliant, bargain ways to improve your home - "Don't be afraid of reupholstering, use paint to transform everything, and collect affordable accessories to take from rental to rental. Designers on the home improvements they have made and loved themselves."
• $89 Million Can't Fix Her Mistakes - "After a dramatic rise in business and society, the art-world mogul Louise Blouin finds herself unloading a Hamptons dream home in bankruptcy court."
• It's Time for a Reality Check on Eggs - "They're expensive, difficult to find and myths about them abound on social media. Here's what to know."
• How Nespresso Pioneered The World Of Coffee Capsules - "The goal was to taste-test as many espresso drinks in Italy as necessary to uncover the core secrets of what makes the perfect espresso pull."
• 5 reasons you need to invest in a Rimowa suitcase right now - "1. Its heritage is unparalleled. 2. Rimowa suitcases are very well designed. 3. Rimowa suitcases offer plenty of space. 4. They're gorgeous additions to your collection. 5. Rimowa luggage comes with a lifetime warranty (seriously)."
• Best USB-C hubs & adapters for Mac 2024 - "USB-C and Thunderbolt Macs often need more ports. These USB-C hubs and adapters for MacBooks and Macs are the best we have tested."
• Bitcoin stages a $1 trillion comeback - "Following bitcoin's gains in 2023, investors have returned in droves in recent weeks, pushing the asset's market capitalization above $1 trillion for the first time since its 2021 heyday, based on data from CoinMarketCap. In contrast to traditional currencies, the supply of bitcoin is limited and is expected to peak in 2140, according to the price-tracking website for cryptocurrencies."
• Remember when these 1990s Wonderbra ads shocked the world? - "Remember when Eva Herzigová caused a storm in a B cup?"
• The truth about Coco Chanel & the Nazis - "Apple TV+'s new historical series The New Look traces the story of Coco Chanel and Christian Dior during the German Occupation of France in WW2. But how much does it get right - and wrong?"
• Stop putting your wet iPhone in rice, says Apple. Here's what to do instead - "Putting your device in a bag of rice 'could allow small particles of rice to damage your iPhone', the company warned."
• Eight-year-old becomes youngest chess player to beat grandmaster - "Ashwath Kaushik of Singapore defeats 37-year-old grandmaster, beating record set days before by another eight-year-old."
• Sloshed, plastered & gazeboed: why Britons have 546 words for drunkenness - "Combine ribald humour with peculiar sentence construction and a genuinely horrifying drinking culture, and what do you get? A dictionary's worth of ‘drunkonyms’."
• Could You Pass the Presidential Physical Fitness Test Today? - "Whether you loved it or loathed it as a kid, the exercises can still be a revealing measure of health - now that no one’s forcing you to do them."
• 10 of the best Hans Zimmer movie scores to test your hi-fi system - "The best from the master of bombast and beauty."
• How to track your mood on Apple Watch & why it's useful - "1. On Apple Watch running watchOS 10, open the Mindfulness app. 2. Choose the new State of Mind option. 3. After tapping Get Started the first time you open it, log how you're feeling in the moment or log how you've 'felt overall' for the day."
• iOS 18: Here are the new AI features in the works - "Everything we know so far." 2024 is shaping up to be the “Year of AI” for Apple, with big updates planned for iOS 18 and more.
• Wiim Amp review: your favorite speakers' new best friend - "Look out, Sonos. The Wiim Amp is your favorite speakers' new best friend. The $299 Wiim Amp is an audio Swiss army knife. It can act as a multisource integrated amplifier, a wireless streaming music player, an Amazon Alexa smart speaker, and even a companion for your TV. Attach a decent set of passive speakers (and possibly a subwoofer) and you’ve got a sleek and compact sound system that pretty much does it all."
• Elon Musk is nominated for Nobel Peace Prize by Norwegian MP - Who praises him for being a 'stout proponent of free speech' and 'enabling' Ukraine to communicate after Russia's invasion."
• India has one of the world's highest ski resorts. Here's what it's like - "After a slow start to the season, Asia’s highest ski resort is covered in snow. Here’s what awaits visitors."
• An eco-friendly stay at 'the quietest ski village in Austria' - "In the hamlet of Fontanella in the Grosses Walsertal valley, 'leave-no-trace' pop-up chalets offer an alternative for skiers looking for a back-to-nature stay in the Alps."
• China's homegrown passenger jet makes international debut - "Beijing's C919 airliner, a potential rival to Western-made Boeing and Airbus planes, made its first foray outside Chinese territory on Sunday by staging a flyby at the Singapore Airshow."
• Wagner in Africa: How the Russian mercenary group has rebranded - "Russia is offering governments in Africa a 'regime survival package' in exchange for access to strategically important natural resources, a major new report has found."
• Taylor Swift, the pope, Putin: in the age of AI & deepfakes, who do you trust? - "Rumours and gossip changed the course of French history. Now they're weapons for 'newsfluencers' and dictators in the 21st-century information wars."
• Nearly 50% of Warren Buffett-Led Berkshire Hathaway's $367 Billion Portfolio Is Invested in Only 1 Stock - "Let's try to figure out what exactly about Apple, which today represents just under 46% of Berkshire's entire portfolio, first drew Buffett's attention."
• Powerball: US man sues lottery after being told $340m win is error - "A Washington DC man who thought he won a jackpot worth $340m has sued Powerball and the DC Lottery, who claim they published his numbers by mistake. John Cheeks said he felt 'numb' when he first saw Powerball's winning numbers matched his ticket in January 2023."
• The keeper of the Vatican's secrets is retiring. Here's what he wants you to know - "The longtime prefect of what is now named the Vatican Apostolic Archive, Archbishop Sergio Pagano, is spilling the beans for the first time, revealing some of the secrets he has uncovered in the 45 years he has worked in one of the world's most important, and unusual, repositories of documents."
• The big idea: this simple behavioural trick can help you get more out of life - "Habituation is a key component of human nature, and knowing how to manipulate it can make the things you enjoy even better."
• What Is 'Unexpected Red'? - "A viral TikTok theory offers a cure for the living room blahs. 'The 'unexpected red' theory is basically adding anything that's red, big or small, to a room where it doesn't match at all, and it automatically looks better,' Ms. Migliazzo Simon, 30, says at the start of the video."
• What Do We Gain by Eating With Our Hands? - "The sense of touch can be a crucial part of dining, one thing that some cultures have understood better than others."
• I've been using a £3k+ coffee machine to see if more expensive machines make better coffee - "The Giga 10 can handle making 35 different coffees, both hot and cold, thanks to the ability to extract cold coffee through a longer brew process. You can completely customise your drinks, from the amount of milk, strength of the espresso, and even the blend of beans."
• 50 of the world's best breads - "In alphabetical order by location, here are 50 of the world's most wonderful breads."
• The World's Biggest Fashion Companies by Market Cap - "Fashion is one of the largest industries globally, accounting for 2% of the global gross domestic product (GDP). In this graphic, we use data from CompaniesMarketCap to showcase the world's 12 largest publicly traded fashion companies, ranked by market capitalization as of Jan. 31, 2024."
• Stop Closing Your iPhone's Background Apps - "Apple users seem unanimously convinced that closing background apps is a good habit, but it's more likely a waste of time. We all perform this iPhone maintenance ritual, but it's a mythical waste of time that's been around for years."
• How to install iOS 17.4 beta to get these new emoji, improved Stolen Device Protection & more - "iOS 17.4 is expected to be officially launched in the first week of March. Some of the biggest changes are just for EU users like support for third-party app stores, a new default web browser prompt, and more. However, there are some updates for users everywhere like 6 new emoji, Stolen Device Protection settings featuring an 'Always' option for the security delay, transcripts in Apple Podcasts, and Siri improvements."
• How I purged over 175GB of files from my Mac in under a minute (& you can too) - "My MacBook Pro works hard and performs flawlessly - most of the time. But sometimes it needs a little TLC."
• Bafta Awards 2024: The complete list of winners & nominees - "The Bafta Film Awards, the most coveted honours in the British movie industry, have been handed out in London."
• Taylor Swift would win any popularity contest against MAGA - "Some fans of former President Donald Trump believe pop star Taylor Swift has been employed in a kind of covert government operation to prop up Joe Biden's reelection bid and have therefore tried to stigmatize her."
• The Kremlin has never been richer - thanks to a US strategic partner - "Bolstered by a record $37 billion of crude oil sales to India last year, its purchases of Russian crude by over 13 times its pre-war amounts."
• EUROPEAN BEST DESTINATIONS 2024 - "Discover the 20 most voted destinations (out of over 500 destinations) awarded the title of 'Best European Destinations 2024'."
• How to know if the olive oil you're buying is actually good for you - "Olive oil has many health benefits, including lowering the risk for dementia, poor heart health, cognitive decline or early death. Here’s what you need to know to select the best possible olive oil for your diet."
• All gain, no pain: how to avoid injuries from running, skiing, swimming, cycling, football, rugby, yoga ... - "One minute you're pushing your body to its limits, the next you've gone too far and you're stretched out with an icepack. Sports pros explain how to escape pains, sprains, tears and swellings."
• Inside the Beverly Hills Whiskey Shop That Stocks the World's Rarest Spirits - "Come for the rare Japanese single malts, stay for the covetable wine selection."
• What can you connect to the iPhone 15 with USB-C? - "USB-C makes it easy to connect displays, external storage, cameras, and charge using the same cable as all your other devices. Here's what you can do with your new iPhone and its shiny new port."
• Apple ports: Lightning, USB-C, Thunderbolt & more - "The definitive guide to the ports on your Apple devices. From HDMI to USB-C and everything in-between, here’s our quick reference guide. The first section lists the ports on each major Apple device. The second section explains what each port does and what it’s used for."
• Alexei Navalny's body 'found covered in bruises' - "Cops guard it in hospital morgue while no autopsy has been performed."
• Trump launches sneaker line a day after judge's order to pay nearly $355 million - "The former president unveiled 'Trump Sneakers' at Sneaker Con in Philadelphia. He placed a pair of gold sneakers, which a new website has listed for $399 and named the 'NEVER SURRENDER HIGH-TOP SNEAKER,' on the podium as he spoke."
• New York Fashion Week: Highlights from the Fall-Winter 2024 runways - "Across Manhattan and Brooklyn, designers have been offering enticing twists on familiar dress codes at New York Fashion Week, which concluded on February 14. Perhaps fittingly, there was a lot of fashion to love."
• This city has more 'best' restaurants than any other in the Middle East - "Dubai has 18 restaurants in the top 50, while Amman, Cairo and Tel Aviv tie for second place with five each, and Marrakech and Beirut take joint third with three restaurants apiece. The list, voted on by more than 250 food and beverage industry experts across the region, includes restaurants in 14 cities across the region."
• How Red Wine Lost Its Health Halo - "For a glorious decade or two, the drink was lauded as good for the heart. What happened?"
• How Long Is Too Long to Stay in Bed? - "On TikTok, some celebrate this cozy morning loafing as 'hurkle-durkling,' referencing an old Scottish phrase for spending idle time awake in bed."
• 27 MacBook Accessories to Upgrade Your Desk Setup - "From monitors to wireless keyboards, computer speakers to docking stations, here are the best add-ons to upgrade your workstation."
• Best Apple Vision Pro apps - "While it's not a comprehensive list of every visionOS app, these are the developers who have shared their early work with 9to5Mac for your consideration!"
• It's More Than a Phone Case. For Gen Z, It's a Status Symbol - "Boosted by social media influencers and celebs like Taylor Swift, sharp-cornered smartphone cases are trending with teens and 20-somethings. But what about the rest of us?"
• Alexei Navalny: a life in pictures - "Alexei Navalny, who has died in prison, was one of Vladimir Putin's most visible and persistent critics. He helped foment 2011-12 protests in Russia by campaigning against election fraud and government corruption, and a high-water mark in his political career came in 2013 when he won 27% of the vote in a Moscow mayoral contest that few believed was free or fair."
• February on course to break unprecedented number of heat records - "Rapid ocean warming and unusually hot winter days recorded as human-made global heating combines with El Niño"
• Are these the most beautiful coffee shops in the world? - "In a world where competitors are often crowded together or even lined up next to one another on the same city block, many cafés are doing whatever it takes to stand out. Or, rather, to let their coffee stand out."
• This new luxury airline says it will offer Apple Vision Pro headsets to passengers - "Beond, a new carrier that bills itself as 'the world's first premium leisure airline,' has announced plans to offer select passengers the use of Apple's Vision Pro on flights, expected to start in July. Founded in 2022, the Maldivian-based airline currently operates three routes to and from the Maldives."
• LVMH Acquires Patek Philippe Shaking the Luxury Watch World - "In an unexpected twist of horological fate, luxury conglomerate LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, renowned for courting the crème de la crème of opulence and art, has wrapped its corporate hands around Swiss royalty: Patek Philippe."
• How will Donald Trump pay the $438m he owes in penalties from civil trials? - "Two giant penalties handed down in a matter of weeks will cost him millions - and that's only part of what he could owe."
• Trump's hubris has brought about the downfall of his family's business empire - "Even the giant fortune Trump inherited from his father did not stop him from steering the family's dynasty on to the rocks."
• Junk mail: how one click can lead to a deluge - "When piles of unsolicited mail and catalogues thud through the letterbox, ask yourself: how do they get your details and how can you stop it?"
• OpenAI will now let you create videos from verbal cues - "Artificial intelligence leader OpenAI introduced a new AI model called Sora which it claims can create 'realistic' and 'imaginative' 60-second videos from quick text prompts."
• KGB spy who rubbed shoulders with French elite for decades - "Major French magazine L'Express has revealed that its prominent former editor, Philippe Grumbach, spied for the Soviet Union for 35 years."
• ‘A cult to hate Truman’: how Capote fell from New York's high society - "The new season of TV drama Feud tells how the famed author became a social pariah to the city's elite women, the swans."
• 6 Self-Help Books That Therapists Read Themselves - "Experts recommend these contemplative texts and workbooks to help shift your perspective."
• 11 Hacks To Get More Out Of Your Nespresso Machine - "These tips, tricks, and hacks will help you make the most of your Nespresso machine and ensure that it's functioning optimally."
• The 16 best turntables of What Hi-Fi?'s lifetime - "With the likes of Linn, Audio Technica, VPI, Pro-Ject, Michell and Systemdek making an appearance, these are the very best turntables we've heard since the first issue of What Hi-Fi? was published 46 years ago."
• JN.1 accounts for nearly all U.S. Covid cases. Here's what to know about the risk of a new infection - "How Protected Am I Against the Covid Variant JN.1?"
• The Race to Stop Ozempic Muscle Loss - "Gym chains, nutrition startups and drugmakers all want to solve a common issue among people who take weight loss drugs."
• How to Take Better Pictures With a Drone - "Look for patterns, lines and light while flying. And don't forget the light and shadows, either. Good light can make or break a photo. Sometimes the best light means a golden sunrise, as we said earlier, but sometimes it means an overcast day with diffused light."
• Monegasque tourist tax dramatically reduced - "Instead of charging a lofty 14 euros per person per night at one of Monaco’s five star hotels, prospective guests can expect to pay seven euros for each night at the Hôtel de Paris, Hôtel Hermitage or Hôtel Métropole."
• Taylor Swift claims she offsets her travel carbon footprint - "Taylor Swift has been criticised for her private plane usage, but claims to have bought double the amount of carbon credits needed to offset her flights for the Eras Tour."
• 1 in 3 Republicans believes baseless Taylor Swift election conspiracy theory, poll finds - "About one-third of Republicans say they believe Taylor Swift is involved in a covert government effort to help Joe Biden win the 2024 presidential election, a poll published Wednesday from Monmouth University found."
• Lessons In Leadership & Innovation: Kanye West's Super Bowl Masterstroke - "By choosing to run an advertisement crafted entirely on an iPhone, West not only circumvented the high production costs typically associated with such endeavors but also managed to captivate a global audience, resulting in significant financial success."
• Mark Zuckerberg reviewed Apple's Vision Pro headset - "Here’s what he had to say about how it compares to Meta’s Quest 3."
• how ‘looksmaxxing’ is reshaping young men's faces - "From bone smashing to chin extensions: Chiselled jaws, pouty lips, hunter eyes: everything is up for grabs in the quest to increase ‘sexual market value’. But how did this extreme cosmetic craze become mainstream?"
• Lab-grown 'beef rice' could offer more sustainable protein source, say creators - "Scientists made the experimental food by covering traditional rice grains in fish gelatin and seeding them with skeletal muscle and fat stem cells which were then grown in the laboratory."
• Nvidia is now worth more than Alphabet, one day after surpassing Amazon - "Wall Street's favorite artificial intelligence darling is continuing to swell to staggering heights. Nvidia's market capitalization rose to $1.83 trillion on Wednesday, nudging past Alphabet's $1.82 trillion market cap."
• Dr No: Sean Connery behind the scenes on the first James Bond film - in pictures - "Released in 1962, Dr No starred Connery as the British secret agent in a groundbreaking action film that became a worldwide hit. It also established one of the longest-running and highest-grossing film franchises. Here we go behind the scenes, with Connery, Ursula Andress and author Ian Fleming."
• True romance: how to keep the love alive when you fight - "Research has found that couples who argue (and get over it) are more likely to stay together than those who avoid conflict. But how can you argue safely?"
• Humanity's earliest recorded kiss adds new twist to the history of locking lips - "No one knows for sure when humans first figured out that mouth-to-mouth contact could be used for romance and erotic pleasure, but scientists reported in May 2023 that people were locking lips at least 4,500 years ago."
• Getting into the right mindset for Valentine's Day - "No matter your view on the topic, Valentine's Day is a great opportunity to put sex on the calendar, but don't just focus on the act itself at the end of the evening."
• Valentine's Day: The interspecies relationships that evolved in nature - "From bats and carnivorous plants to crocodiles and birds, nature is full of remarkable pairings that depend on each other to survive."
• Do aphrodisiacs really work? - "Chocolate, strawberries, oysters: we've all heard that certain foods can heighten our sexual desire and even performance. But is there any truth to the claims?"
• Inside the global cult of 'cute' - "‘Like a tiny kitten waiting to pounce:’ Inside the cult of cute."
• Super Bowl 2024 was most watched US TV broadcast since 1969 Moon landing - "This year's Super Bowl was watched by an average of 123.4 million people in the US, making it the most watched broadcast since the 1969 Moon landing."
• Kanye West denies claims that Taylor Swift got him kicked out of the Super Bowl - for buying tickets directly in front of her VIP suite to steal the limelight.
• Ferrari unveil new SF-24 car ahead of the 2024 season - "Ferrari kept the F1 launch season rolling on Tuesday by showing off their eagerly anticipated new challenger in an online presentation."
• Shock of the old: nine shrivelled hearts to celebrate the day of love - "Richard the Lionheart, Robert the Bruce, Queen Marie of Romania ... a whole who's who of historical figures have had their hearts removed after their death. Meet the gang!"
• Feet on the ground: the rise & rise of the barefoot shoe - "Our gravitation towards thin-soled shoes could be a manifestation of our desire to reconnect with the world, and brands from Adidas to Loewe are jumping on the trend."
• How to Keep Your Teeth Strong - "Weak enamel can make you more susceptible to cavities, but there are steps you can take to protect your teeth."
• How to view your body temperature on Apple Watch - "Want to know your actual temperature, instead of '+0.05°C'? Here's how. Open Settings on your Apple Watch and scroll down until you start to see an alphabetically ordered list of apps (probably starting with Activity and App Store). Find Health in this list and tap it. Now tap Health Data > Body Measurements > Wrist Temperature."
• The Doomsday Clock Keeps Ticking - "Are humans the only beings in the universe confronting global self-destruction? Or just the last ones standing?"
• Trump does the impossible. He sinks even lower - "Trump alarmingly stated that he would encourage Russian to do 'whatever the hell they want' to NATO allies that didn’t meet the alliance’s military spending guidelines."
• See what celebrities wore to New York Fashion Week - "New York Fashion Week is back, with celebrities seen sitting front row at shows across Manhattan and Brooklyn and arriving at private parties for luxury houses including Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent."
• The latest It-bag is a joke ... Inside the wacky world of MSCHF - "From its Big Red Boots to its new Frankenstein bag, the New York-based company pronounced ‘mischief’ is rewriting the rulebook of consumerism. The internet - and A-Listers - can’t get enough."
• Best 2024 Super Bowl commercials: All 59 ranked according to USA TODAY Ad Meter - "Over 160,000 people registered to vote in the 36th USA TODAY Ad Meter competition, which ranks the Super Bowl commercials each year. The 2024 winner was State Farm's 'Like a Good Neighbaaa,' starring Arnold Schwarzenegger and Danny DeVito, with a score of 6.68."
• What does Taylor mania mean for the globe? - "Taylor Swift: Inside a world-first 'Swiftposium' academic summit."
• For Valentine's Day, red roses & heart-shaped chocolates are out. Self-care is in - "As young consumers begin to prioritise themselves on 14 February, personal wellness and friendship are taking the front seat."
• A Leading Memory Researcher Explains How to Make Precious Moments Last - "Our memories form the bedrock of who we are. Those recollections, in turn, are built on one very simple assumption: This happened. But things are not quite so simple. We update our memories through the act of remembering."
• Flirt, reflect, delete: seven tips to tackle dating app fatigue - "When swiping through the apps feels as romantic as doing taxes, here's how to shift our approach to dating."
• Warren Buffett Says Steve Jobs Once Called Him Asking For Advice On How To Invest Apple's Cash - "Then He Completely Ignored The Advice."
• ‘Nothing was done’: Vatican note suggests part blame in bombing of Monte Cassino - "Eighty years on, document confirms Hitler's role and reveals allied raid might have been avoided had action been taken to enforce neutral zone."
• 200 cats, 200 dogs, one lab: the secrets of the pet food industry - "Pet food is a £120bn industry, with vast resources spent on working out how best to nourish and delight our beloved charges. But how do we know if we’re getting it right?"
• The strange psychology of itching - "Why we may be hardwired to shun those who scratch. We derive pleasure from scratching an itch - but may have evolved to shun those who scratch."
• Knuckle-cracking is fine & bad weather doesn't make arthritis worse: nine myths about your joints busted - "Research shows how to avoid joint pain through healthier living and eating, so stop worrying about rain and take vitamin D."
• 6 Of The Highest Rated iPhone 3-In-1 Chargers - "If you have an iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods, you probably need to charge at least two of those devices daily. Depending on which model or generation you have, you might need to use a combination of USB-C, Lightning, and proprietary Apple Watch charging cables. If you want to avoid the cable clutter, a 3-in-1 iPhone charger is a great alternative. This type of charger includes a wireless or MagSafe charger for your iPhone, an Apple Watch puck, and a Qi wireless charging mat for AirPods."
• Taylor Swift, Usher, Justin Bieber & Jay-Z: celebrities at the Super Bowl - in pictures - "From the stands to the stage, the Las Vegas Super Bowl draws some of America’s biggest names, with R&B star Usher going shirtless, in-line skating and bringing out Alicia Keys, Ludacris, will.i.am and Lil Jon for a career-spanning setlist in his half-time show."
• Taylor Swift jumps for joy as Kansas City Chiefs win the Super Bowl in nail-biter game - "The teams were tied at 19 as the game went in overtime, but in the final seconds the Chiefs made a game-winning touchdown, bringing the final score to 25-22. It was the 7th longest game in NFL history."
• Researchers reveal lost library of Charles Darwin for the first time - "'Instead of basing one's understanding on the authors Darwin read that are mentioned in biographies, etc., anyone can now scroll through his whole library.'"
• Method Dressing - "At its core, method dressing is when actors take aspects of a film - like the plot, the scenery, and the characters - and apply them to their red-carpet or street-style ensembles. Simply put, it's sartorial storytelling at its finest."
• The lost art of the death mask - "The Western world was once obsessed with these macabre memorials."
• Best streaming sticks & devices of 2024 - "While current TVs come preloaded with a smart interface, many are clunky, don’t offer the latest streaming services and can lag months behind on updates to the services they do offer. The solution? Streaming sticks and boxes."
• Multivitamins, Memory & Aging: Everything to Know - "New research finds a cognitive benefit in daily vitamins for older adults. Here's some more context."
• Don’t be afraid to slouch & always wear trainers - "Six simple tips for healthier joints from the experts. Doctors, osteopaths and physiotherapists advise how to avoid wear and tear, from toe yoga to jogging and daily exercises. When it comes to our feet and ankles, what we wear is really important. Part of my mission is to try to persuade everyone to wear solid, broad-soled trainers for everything."
• Get rid of the paper clutter: how to deal with your household documents - "From ways to store important documents to the right ways to destroy them. That includes things like postage labels you get on a delivery from Amazon, which have your address and details all over them. You need to make sure you take those labels off and destroy them, or alternatively use a thick marker pen to obscure the details."
• 3 New Business Helicopters With Luxe Amenities That Rival Private Jets - "The incoming class of executive helicopters by names like Airbus are putting an exciting new spin on aviation."
• King Charles thanks public for support after cancer diagnosis - "King Charles has given his 'heartfelt thanks' for messages of support from the public, in his first statement since being diagnosed with cancer. The 75-year-old monarch said: 'As all those who have been affected by cancer will know, such kind thoughts are the greatest comfort and encouragement.'"
• Chinese zodiac fortune predictions: What's in store for the Year of the Dragon - "Put away those bunny ears and crank up the heat, it's time to say goodbye to the Rabbit and enter the Year of the Dragon - the only mythical creature among the 12 Chinese zodiac signs."
• Lunar new year 2024 around the world - in pictures - "From China to India and from Russia to the UK, people ring in the year of the dragon."
• Wise, lucky, terrifying: The surprising 4,000-year history of dragons - "From dragon-like animals to Chinese tornados and quaint English villages, here are the real-life traces of an ancient myth."
• Enhanced Games: drug-friendly sports competition gains prominence even as the backlash grows - "Swimmer James Magnussen says he would 'come on board as their first athlete', but others view the proposed event as 'scary and dangerous'."
• Why age matters when it comes to cancer - "Scientists are beginning to understand why our cancer risk increases as we get older. Now it's hoped that this could one day lead to new treatments."
• Legion: life in the Roman army - one of 'the most powerful' British Museum exhibitions - "This 'gripping' new exhibition explores how Rome built its vast empire 'on military might'. The only complete surviving legionary long shield on display."
• Inside the homes that 'whisper rather than scream luxury' - "Quietly luxurious British and American interiors styles have merged over the centuries. What are the elements of this ultra-rich, 'old money' look, and what makes it so timeless?"
• It's a brand new route on the world's most famous train - but it'll cost you $8,500 one way - "In travel news this week, a European airline is weighing passengers before takeoff, the new luxury train trip that costs $8,500 one way, and how Ukraine keeps its railways running, two years into the war."
• 30 of the Best Things to Do in Copenhagen for Food & Design Enthusiasts - "Where to eat and stay, what to explore, and how to shop in Denmark's capital city."
• Airline starts weighing passengers at the gate - "Finnair is weighing volunteer passengers at the gate to collect data on travelers."
• A New Biography Tackles the Remarkable Career of Stanley Kubrick - "On the 25th anniversary of the director's death, two film scholars have published Kubrick: An Odyssey."
• B Michael, the Designer Who's Dressed BeyoncÉ, Whitney Houston & More - "What Do Beyoncé, ‘Dynasty,’ and Halle Berry Have in Common? His Clothes. He has dressed music, TV and Hollywood stars. He has had a fashion business since the 1980s. His clothes have become social media hits. But B Michael is not a household name."
• I just tested Google Gemini Advanced & it offers a real alternative to ChatGPT Plus - "Google has finally launched its Gemini Ultra 1.0 artificial intelligence model, which the company claims can go head-to-head with OpenAI's most powerful AI model GPT-4-Turbo on most tasks. If true it would be the first real competition to OpenAI's ChatGPT since the start of the GenAI boom."
• Twelve South HiRise 3 Deluxe Review: StandBy Mode Perfected - "The HiRise 3 Deluxe is high-priced, but has a bunch of nice details which makes it one of the best 3-in-1 MagSafe chargers."
• Withings BeamO is shaping a smartwatch-free future with medical-grade accuracy - "Withings is known for smartwatches and scales, but the BeamO is something entirely different when it comes to health tracking."
• The Blood of Exceptionally Long-Lived People Reveals Key Differences - "Twelve blood-based biomarkers related to inflammation, metabolism, liver and kidney function, as well as potential malnutrition and anaemia, were included. All of these have been associated with ageing or mortality in previous studies."
• The Best Moka Pots for Delicious Stovetop Espresso at Home - "Enjoy your coffee like an Italian with the best moka pots for making strong, intense, and flavorful stovetop espresso at home. People love their coffee, which is why there’s seemingly innumerable options for coffee makers, espresso machines, and caffeine contraptions of all sorts. Despite the myriad of options for making good espresso at home, the humble moka pot remains the preferred option for a whole lot of coffee drinkers around the world."
• iOS 18 Potentially 'Biggest' Software Update in iPhone's History - "In the subscriber-only Q&A section of his Power On newsletter today, Gurman said iOS 18 has the potential to be the 'biggest' software update in the iPhone's history. 'I'm told that the new operating system is seen within the company as one of the biggest iOS updates - if not the biggest - in the company's history,' he wrote."
• The 3 Best USB Hubs of 2024 | Reviews by Wirecutter - "Modern computers are thinner and lighter than ever before, but sleek design comes at a cost: The number and types of ports on everything from MacBooks to all-in-one desktops have ended up on the chopping block. If you want to plug in anything with a connection other than a USB-C cable, the most efficient and economical option is to use a USB-C hub, which provides multiple types of ports in a relatively compact package."
• 40 Years Ago, This Ad Changed the Super Bowl Forever - "An oral history of Apple's groundbreaking '1984' spot, which helped to establish the Super Bowl as TV's biggest commercial showcase."
• How to Fake Your Way Through the Super Bowl - "Don't be ashamed. Here's all you need to know about the big game on Sunday."
• The Paris Olympics medals are made with pieces of the Eiffel Tower - "A hexagonal, polished chunk of iron taken from the iconic landmark is being embedded in each gold, silver and bronze medal that will be hung around athletes' necks at the July 26-Aug. 11 Paris Games and Paralympics that follow."
• Bard becomes Gemini: Try Ultra 1.0 & a new mobile app today - "Bard is now known as Gemini, and we're rolling out a mobile app and Gemini Advanced with Ultra 1.0."
• Best iPhone VPN of 2024 - "Boost your browsing privacy on the go with the best iPhone VPNs we've tested."
• 5 things you didn't know your Apple Watch could do - "Can you believe it's been almost 9 years since we first strapped on an Apple wearable? Since then, the best Apple Watches have grown from luxury items (remember the gold one?) to fantastic fitness trackers. Here are some of our favorite Apple Watch features you may not know."
• LVMH Is An Unstoppable Force That's Unlocking The Luxury Watch's Full Potential - "The French luxury conglomerate knows it's all about making the connection with millennials, Generation Z, and the ultrarich."
• Mickey Mouse Returns On A GÉrald Genta Minute Repeater For Only Watch - "A special timepiece in more ways than one."
• On the World's Largest Cruise Ship, Thrills & Space to Chill - "Our reporter joined thousands of passengers on the inaugural sailing of Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas. Yes, the water rides were wild. But the most surprising thing she found? Some actual peace and quiet." The New York Times.
• 17 Best Places to Download Free Audiobooks in 2024 - "Get thousands of free audiobooks at OverDrive, LibriVox, Digitalbook.io, and other websites."
• Putin tells Tucker Carlson the US ‘needs to stop supplying weapons’ to Ukraine - "Putin walks away with propaganda victory after Tucker Carlson’s softball interview."
• iOS 17.3.1 - Surprise New iPhone Update Is Suddenly Here - "The update includes a fix for a bug that could cause text to unexpectedly duplicate or overlap while typing."
• Why February Is the Best Month for Resolutions - "Psychologists say now is the perfect time to reflect on what you want and how to get there."
• The F-16 hit 50 years of flying. These photos show the Viper in action - "The F-16 Fighting Falcon celebrated the 50th anniversary of its maiden flight on January 20. The F-16 first graced the skies in 1974 at Edwards Air Force Base in California. The F-16 is still used in combat today, and is expected to be transferred to Ukraine this year."
• Best watches 2024: the ultimate guide to watches & watch brands - "Find the best watches for men of 2024 for all styles & budgets, from Audemars and Zenith, to Omega, Rolex and Swatch."
• Don't get scammed: The best places to buy a Rolex online - "For those who don’t want to buy directly through the Rolex website, there are a ton of other sites where you can buy pre-owned or brand new Rolexes at a premium. There are a few different websites to choose from so be sure to do your research."
• Ray-Ban Meta glasses get camera, audio fixes in v2 update - "Improvements to the camera and audio controls highlight the Version 2.0 update to the Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses."
• Smishing vs. Phishing: What's the Difference? - "If you own a mobile device, chances are good that you've received text messages from numbers that aren't in your contacts, simply saying 'Hello.' While it's easy to assume these are just wrong numbers, the reality is that these innocent-looking messages are actually a SMS phishing cyberattack known as smishing."
• World's first year-long breach of key 1.5C warming limit - "For the first time, global warming has exceeded 1.5C across an entire year, according to the EU's climate service."
• What Type of Cancer Does King Charles Have? - "The British monarch has been open about some aspects of his health and private about others."
• Researchers reveal first full passages decoded from famously inscrutable Herculaneum scrolls - "The Herculaneum scrolls are hundreds of papyri that survived the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. In their charred state, the ancient documents would crumble if anyone attempted to unroll them, and any writing on surviving pieces would be nearly illegible to the human eye."
• Cyber-attacks by North Korea raked in $3bn to build nuclear weapons, UN monitors suspect - "Report is said to show that attacks on cryptocurrency-related companies helped development of dictatorship’s weapons programme."
• Who's the smallest of them all? Meet the world's amazing tiniest creatures - "Often overlooked in favour of larger, more charismatic cousins, we asked scientists to tell us about the smallest-known species, from a nano-chameleon to a miniature frog."
• THE FUTURE IS HERE! INTRODUCING FLYING UMBRELLAS TO TAKE CONVENIENCE TO THE NEXT LEVEL - "In a recent creation that has captured the imagination of tech enthusiasts and casual observers alike, I Build Stuff has designed a flying umbrella drone that hovers above users, shielding them from the rain in a futuristic and whimsical fashion."
• Asbestos: The strange past of the 'magic mineral' - "From supernatural capes to sleeping caps, asbestos fibres once had a wide range of bizarre uses."
• Man who spent years building Eiffel Tower with 700K matchsticks may be denied world record for using wrong matches - "Richard Plaud spent the last eight years painstakingly piecing together 706,900 matchsticks to make a 23.6-foot model of the world-famous monument."
• Vision Pro Review: Apple's First Headset Lacks Polish & Purpose - "Billed as the future of computing, the $3,500 goggles can’t replace a laptop for work. At times, wearing them also made our columnist feel nauseated." The New York Times.
• 11 Best Coffee Makers 2024 - "For a solid, fuss-free way to caffeinate at home."
• A guide to audiophile terminology - "The realm of audiophile forums might leave you more perplexed than enlightened. Fear not! This guide is your practical companion, unravelling the mysteries of the terminology surrounding audiophile turntables."
• Hublot Just Used AI to Design Its Watches - "One watch brand not short on out-there ideas is Hublot. With its Big Bang series, it skilfully blends all kinds of weird and wonderful materials including ceramic, cermet, Kevlar, tungsten, magnesium and rubber into shamelessly hench watches beloved of millionaires and sportsmen, and especially millionaire sportsmen."
• Napping polar bear image wins top wildlife photography prize - "An image of a napping polar bear curled up on an iceberg has captured the hearts of voters to become the winner of this year’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year People’s Choice Award."
• Were we friends? Jennifer Aniston doesn't recognize David Schwimmer in hilarious Super Bowl spot - "Like a scene from an alternate universe, Jennifer Aniston can't seem to remember who her 'Friends' co-star David Schwimmer is in a new Super Bowl LVIII ad."
• Watch the Best 2024 Super Bowl Commercials - "A-listers are all over 2024's Super Bowl commercials, including Jennifer Aniston, David Beckham, and anyone who starred on an NBC sitcom."
• Elon Musk Almost Sold Tesla To Google for $11 Billion - "But He Called The Deal Off When He 'No Longer Needed A Savior' After Sales Surged."
• Just Plane Wrong: Celebs with the Worst Private Jet Co2 Emissions - "Our data reveals that the celebs have emitted an average of 3376.64 tonnes of CO2 emissions in just their private jet usage in 2022 so far. That's 482.37 times more than the average person's annual emissions. Some of the biggest offenders include Taylor Swift, Jay-Z, Kim Kardashian and Travis Scott."
• Global CO₂ emissions by country 2022 - "Carbon dioxide emissions of the most polluting countries worldwide in 2010 and 2022."
• One Arm or Two? How You Get Vaccinated May Make a Difference - "Receiving multidose vaccinations in both arms, instead of just one, may increase the immune response, new research suggests."
• What's the Best Way to Clear Ear Wax? - "Cotton swabs may feel the most satisfying, but there are safer and more effective alternatives. Dr. Quimby recommended wiping the outer ear (called the pinna) with a moist washcloth, just as you would wipe other parts of your body. 'Clean the outer part you can get to, but nothing deeper,' she said."
• 10 tiny 'everyday carry' tools & gadgets I keep on my keychain - "If you're someone who always has their keychain with them, here's how to make it a lot more useful."
• Marantz TT-15S1 Turntable Reminds Us of Beauty in the Details - "Given its continued popularity, can we even call vinyl culture a 'resurgence' anymore? A generation of digital natives rediscovered the analog medium years ago in what was initially a trend and affection for nostalgia, but it’s obvious today that the industry, its vinyl listeners, and early obsessions have matured."
• Tesla owners told not to wear Apple virtual reality headsets while driving - "Tesla owners have been reminded to keep their eyes on the road after videos of drivers wearing Apple's virtual reality headset have gone viral."
• The Money & Drugs That Tie Elon Musk to Some Tesla Directors - "Board members have reaped hundreds of millions from stock awards and separate investments, even as some have done drugs with Musk; former Tesla director Larry Ellison offered him a chance to dry out."
• The True Price of Apple's $3,500 Vision Pro Is Closer to $4,600 - "The new headset teaches a valuable lesson about the cost of tech products: The upsells and add-ons will get you. The price shoots up with the add-ons and accessories that many people would want to buy."
• How our drinking water could come from thin air - "From solar panels that produce water to 'self-filling' coffee machines and water coolers, technology companies are putting a new spin on a centuries-old technique."
• 22 Looks That Did the Most at the Grammys - "The awards show is known to be a fashion playground. This year’s event was no exception."
• How Do I Wear Socks Without Looking Like a Schoolgirl? - "Socks seem to be everywhere right now, even on the red carpet. Socks are one of the most undervalued, and enjoyable, accessories available. Though socks have long held a place of honor in men’s wear as one of the few acceptable ways to express personality, they have played a less meaningful role for women."
• Apple Releasing iOS 17.4 in March With These New Features & Changes - "Key new features in iOS 17.4 include major App Store changes in the EU, Apple Podcasts transcripts, SharePlay for the HomePod, and new emoji. The update also includes preparations for the launch of next-generation CarPlay later this year."
• Grammy awards 2024: list of winners - "A complete rundown of the artists, albums, songs and videos that took home trophies at the 66th annual awards. The night saw major wins for Taylor Swift, Miley Cyrus, boygenius, SZA and Billie Eilish."
• Unpacking the Facebook Tragedy as It Turns 20 - "Facebook and its parent company Meta have truly harmed the world, writes David Kirkpatrick."
• From Bulgari to Armani, ultra-luxe branded residences are booming in Dubai - "Branded residences are residential complexes that incorporate the design and service style of their namesake brand, often sitting beside or within a brand's hotel or resort - and a growing number of luxury fashion names are jumping on the real estate bandwagon."
• How to watch movies for free: seven top tips - "From streaming services such as the BBC iPlayer to Amazon Prime trials and cinema film previews."
• The Power of Cute: Sweet, Cuddly & Taking Over the World - "There is plenty of fun and truly adorable stuff in 'Cute,' a new exhibition in London. But there are some creepy and unsettling things, too."
• How A.I. Is Remodeling the Fantasy Home - "Amid an intractable real estate crisis, fake luxury houses offer a delusion of one’s own."
• The Uncancellable Larry David - " But the real Larry David never seems to get canceled, no matter how many cultural third rails he touches."
• Grammy Awards 2024: Dua Lipa, Billie Eilish, SZA & Joni Mitchell to star at ceremony - "The ceremony, which takes place in Los Angeles on Sunday, is notorious for scoring own goals, often rewarding middle-of-the-road heritage acts over cutting-edge, contemporary pop."
• The super-rich are buying more ultra-customized Rolls-Royces & Lamborghinis - "Automakers like Lamborghini, Ferrari, Bentley and Rolls-Royce have been doing well as, regardless of whatever is happening in the wider world's economy, the ranks of the ultra-wealthy grow and become richer. Lamborghini sold more than 10,000 vehicles last year for the first time ever and Ferrari had a more than 17% increase in revenue."
• Neuralink: Can Musk's brain technology change the world? - "Elon Musk is no stranger to bold claims - from his plans to colonise Mars to his dreams of building transport links underneath our biggest cities. This week the world's richest man said his Neuralink division had successfully implanted its first wireless brain chip into a human."
• Mark Zuckerberg's new worth surges by billions in a single day. Here's why - "Mark Zuckerberg's net worth increased by more than $28 billion between your morning coffee and your lunch break."
• Breaking Down The Brand Vacheron Constantin - "A Member Of The Illustrious 'Holy Trinity Of Watchmaking' With A History Dating Back To 1755."
• What's Really Behind the ‘Mob Wife Aesthetic’? - "A TikTok trend that's about more than French manicures and furs, the look focuses on conspicuous signifiers of wealth earned outside the rule of law."
• Try the Animal Movement Workout - "Crawling around like a crab or gorilla has become a bona fide exercise fad. It looks a little silly, but it's also a serious workout."
• The Nespresso Vertuo Trick That Makes A Stronger Cup Of Coffee - "The process is as simple as it gets. Just press the brew button twice. When you do this, the button will turn blue, signaling that your Vertuo machine is now in Expert Mode. It's a subtle yet powerful modification that allows you to extract a more concentrated coffee from your chosen pod."
• SoufflÉ Espresso Martini - "Put a twist on the classic espresso martini and add a whipped coffee topping. Like a soufflé, the airy, slightly sweet topping slowly rises as the espresso cocktail is poured into the glass, creating a stunning visual effect that will impress any guest."
• How Loro Piana makes the most heavenly polo shirt - "For almost 100 years, Loro Piana was known only to fashion insiders. Now, the secret's out - and one piece is the perfect embodiment of its soft power."
• Collection Of Michael Jordan Sneakers Sells For Record-Breaking $8 Million In Auction - "A set of six individual sneakers worn by NBA champion Michael Jordan sold for $8 million at a Sotheby's auction on Friday, breaking the record for the most expensive game-worn sneakers ever sold off."
• The world's best beaches, according to Lonely Plane - "Touching grass is great, but when it comes to reconnecting with nature, one of the finest ways has to be feeling the sand between your toes. Travel behemoth Lonely Planet's new guide to the world's 'Best Beaches' includes blockbuster spots such as Rio de Janeiro's Ipanema and Thailand's Ao Maya, as well as private resort paradises such as Zanzibar's Mnemba Island."
• Elon Musk bashed by heavy metal drummer who cost him $56 billion - "Elon Musk suffered one of the biggest legal losses in U.S. history this week when the Tesla CEO was stripped of his $56 billion pay package in a case brought by an unlikely opponent, a former heavy metal drummer."
• Carl Weathers: a life in pictures - "Actor best known for playing Apollo Creed in the Rocky films, and who also appeared in Predator and The Mandalorian, has died aged 76."
• How long will your dog live? Measure its nose - "Is your dog a small male with a long nose? Or a medium-size female with a face of average canine proportions? If so, your furry companion is more likely to be at your side for a long time, according to new research. But if yours is a pooch with a squished muzzle, the picture might be a bit less rosy."
• Why 2024 is the year to visit the two most precious rhinos in the world - "Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kenya is home to the last two northern white rhinos on Earth - but the world's first IVF rhino pregnancy may offer hope for the near extinct subspecies."
• More & more travelers are visiting every country in the world. Some are having second thoughts about it - "While the number of people who've been able to achieve this is still relatively small - reportedly estimated at around 400 or so - more and more are going all out to achieve this feat."
• Want to Live Like a Queen? This 'Crown' Auction Can Help - "Bonhams is selling hundreds of costumes and props from 'The Crown,' including a horse-drawn carriage, robes of state and the queen's bed."
• ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ Made Something Out of Nothing - "Larry David's HBO series never aimed at grand statements. But its reflection of modern grievances was pretty, pretty good."
• How to Savor Life Like an Astronaut - "You don't have to leave Earth to appreciate being alive. There are simple ways to cherish each day. Savoring isn't limited to experiences that are happening right now. You can also try something called 'mental time travel,' Dr. Bryant said, by focusing on the future or the past. Dr. Bryant amps up his appreciation for the present by imagining himself in the future, pining for his current life."
• Alcohol Consumption by Country: 25 Countries with the Highest Alcohol Consumption per Capita - "According to the 2021 European Health Report by the WHO, Europe is the continent that drinks the most alcohol in the world, with every person aged 15 and over consuming an average of 9.5 liters of pure alcohol every year. This is equivalent to around 190 liters of beer, 80 liters of wine, or 24 liters of spirits."
• STRICTLY LIMITED HUBLOT MP-10 TOURBILLON WEIGHT ENERGY SYSTEM TITANIUM IS FUTURISTIC TIME TELLER WITH VERTICAL DISPLAY - "There are a few in the haute horlogerie that do futuristic, fiercely unconventional timepieces like the MB&F. Hublot for 2024 has gone seriously unconventional with the novel MP-10 Tourbillon Weight Energy System Titanium watch that sways afar with its display and functioning."
• This is the world's rarest passport - "The world's rarest passport is issued by a nation without any land. The Sovereign Military Order of Malta - also known as the Knights of Malta - isn’t just a religious Catholic order with nearly 1,000 years of history. Nor is it just a multi-million-dollar-budget humanitarian aid organization, with operations including refugee camps and disaster relief programs in some 120 countries around the world."
• Deny, attack, reverse - Trump has perfected the art of inverted victimhood - "Trump tries to undermine allegations against him by attacking his accusers, sowing confusion and painting himself as a martyr."
• The Best Watches We Saw at the First Big Watch Show of 2024 - "LVMH Watch Week kicked off the year with a (big) bang."
• Ultraprocessed food is essentially predigested, leading to weight gain & more, experts say - "You may be eating predigested food. Here’s why."
• The world's most controversial seasoning is making a comeback - "MSG is the most misunderstood ingredient of the century. Once a surefire way to keep your restaurant empty. That’s finally changing."
• The mythos of drinking tea: What makes it essentially British? - "When a US chemist suggested adding salt to tea, a storm brewed online. But why does tea, and the right way to make it, strike such a nerve for so many people, especially in the UK?"
• Before you get a Spotify tattoo, artists want you to know these risks - "What if you were able to have your favorite song basically on speed dial, ready to go for any moment that calls for it? What's known as a 'Spotify tattoo' has made that possible: On Spotify, every piece of content has a series of unique sound bars known as a Spotify code, meant for sharing the content with someone when scanned with the camera function on Spotify's mobile app. Get a code tattooed on your arm or another body part and, when scanned, it should immediately play the content associated with it."
• Happy Grundsaudaag! The ancient Germanic history of Groundhog Day - "You say Groundhog Day, I say Grundsaudaag: how German and Swiss settlers in Pennsylvania created a new language - and a much-loved American holiday."
• Ten of the best films to watch in February - "Including The Taste of Things, How to Have Sex and a documentary about Albert Einstein and the Manhattan Project - this month's unmissable movies to watch and stream."
• Sit, stay & be a good boy: 21 rules for dogs & their humans - "We asked experts to describe good dog manners and how our pups should behave at home, on a walk and out on the town."
• They Don't Make Socialites Like They Used To - "Ryan Murphy’s new series, 'Feud: Capote vs. the Swans,' recalls the fine art of getting dressed."
• A Practical Guide to Quitting Your Smartphone - "Readers who have taken the plunge said it had improved their lives, marriages and mental health, and offered advice to those going without their smartphones for 'Flip Phone February.'"

February, 2024

• No Pain, No Gain? Your Body Would Like a Word - "Experts say it's crucial to listen to your body to avoid injury. But what does that really mean, and how can you put it into practice?"
• Apple Vision Pro review: magic, until it's not - "The Apple Vision Pro is the best consumer headset anyone's ever made - and that's the problem."
• How planting trees is bringing clean water to a tropical nation - "The Dominican Republic's forests are being cut down for grazing land - and it's also having a serious effect on the water supply. Is planting new trees a natural solution to the crisis?"
• Leopold & Loeb: The grisly 'crime of the century' that fascinated Hitchcock & others - "One hundred years ago, wealthy Chicago students Nathan Leopold and Richard Loeb brutally murdered 14-year-old Bobby Franks. Why is popular culture obsessed with this horrific case?"
• How to eat now: 16 rules of modern dining - from dress codes to dogs - "A restaurant visit should be a joy, but arguments over queues, booking deposits and cakeage can ruin the experience. Industry insiders explain what is and isn’t acceptable."
• Owls may actually be able to turn their heads a full 360 degrees - "Owls are famously good at rotating their heads, but now anatomical findings suggest they really could go a full 360 degrees without injuring themselves."
• use the HEFE method to get better at small talk - "Making small talk is about to get a little easier. Similar to the FORD method, the HEFE method provides an easy way of remembering four broad subject areas that can serve as conversation starters. 'HEFE' stands for hobbies, entertainment, food, and environment."
• Make a Better To-do List With the 1-3-5 Method - "You can't do a million things in a day. You can do nine, though. The 1-3-5 rule acknowledges that in a typical day, you just don't have time to do it all. What you do reasonably have time for is one major task, three medium-sized tasks, and five little ones. These can be related or they can be separate."
• They Took Their Horses to the Swiss Alps for Snow Polo. They Got Slush Instead - "In St. Moritz, a ski resort town that revolves around winter tourism, high temperatures made full matches impossible and raised concerns about the future."
• All of the Best Whiskeys to Drink in 2024 - "From single malt to single barrel, barrel proof to cask finished, these are the best whiskeys to drink in 2024."
• Boeing's reputation for safety has been decimated - "Boeing was once known for safety and engineering. But critics say an emphasis on profits changed that."
• Russian billionaire loses Sotheby's art fraud lawsuit involving ‘Salvator Mundi’ - "A federal jury on Tuesday ruled in favor of Sotheby's at a trial in which the Russian billionaire oligarch Dmitry Rybolovlev accused the auction house of defrauding him out of tens of millions of dollars in art sales."
• Elon Musk sees $56bn Tesla pay deal cancelled in court - "A judge in the US state of Delaware has annulled a $55.8bn pay deal awarded to Elon Musk in 2018 by the electric car company Tesla."
• Nine of the best TV shows to watch this February - "From Donald Glover and Maya Erskine in spy comedy Mr and Mrs Smith to Juliette Binoche in fashion world drama The New Look - and the final run of Larry David's Curb Your Enthusiasm."
• Microsleeps: The naps that may only last seconds - "Far shorter than a nap, microsleeps can last only a few seconds. They may be a sign of deeper problems getting decent sleep."
• I keep dating the same type of person. Should I break my own habits? - "Dating apps enable us to pursue our type exclusively by foregrounding superficial traits like height. But type can also extend to personality traits and reflect our past relationships – meaning we might not be conscious of all the ways in which we’re limiting ourselves in the search for love."
• How to Wash Your Hair - "A guide to building an effective, adaptable routine for every hair type. 1. Pay attention to your scalp. A good routine begins before you get in the shower, with a scalp massage. ... 2. Do a dry detangle. Video. ... 3. Shampoo strategically. Video. ... 4. Don't rush the conditioner. Video. ... 5. Deep-treat if necessary. Video. ... 6. Dry carefully."
• How war destroyed Gaza's neighbourhoods - visual investigation - "Satellite imagery and open-source evidence lay bare the destruction to civilian infrastructure by Israel in its war on Hamas."
• Elon Musk says Neuralink implanted wireless brain chip - "Tech billionaire Elon Musk has claimed his Neuralink company has successfully implanted one of its wireless brain chips in a human. The company's goal is to connect human brains to computers to help tackle complex neurological conditions."
• Billionaire Jeff Bezos still uses a homemade scrappy door desk from the early days of launching Amazon - "Jeff Bezos might be a billionaire, but to this day, he still uses a homemade scrappy door desk from Amazon's early days in the 1990s. The Amazon founder's fiancée Lauren Sanchez posted a photo on Instagram over the weekend, which shows Bezos working from a laptop on the door desk. The desk have since become a symbol of Amazon's culture and are now used across its offices."
• These ‘unusual’ 4 traits helped Jeff Bezos grow Amazon into a $1 trillion company, says current CEO - "Jeff Bezos built Amazon into a tech behemoth and 'everything store' that's now worth $1.6 trillion. He did it by being 'arguably the most unusual business leader of our era,' current Amazon CEO Andy Jassy told Fortune in a recent interview at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland."
• The story behind the only known painting by The Beatles, as it goes up for sale at auction - "The Beatles made a psychedelic painting together - at auction on 1 February - while holed up in a Japanese hotel room. Its creation seemed to provide a moment of calm at a tumultuous time."
• An independent guide to your first vinyl hi-fi set-up - "If done correctly, you needn't spend a small fortune to get a decent starting set-up to introduce you to the wonders of record collecting. It is an incredibly rewarding hobby, which makes every album feel like an event as well as opening many further avenues of musical discovery that simply do not exist with digital music formats."
• Top Monuments to See at the Acropolis of Athens - "Thought to be inhabited as far back as 5,000 BC, the Acropolis and its monuments largely remain in suitable condition to this day. Archaeological ruins at the Acropolis include temples, statues, sanctuaries, altars, theaters, and even fountains. If you visit, it's well worth taking the time to appreciate some of the more remarkable sites."
• The world's biggest cruise ship has just set sail. The buzz is real &d so is the blowback - "This cruise ship can carry nearly 10,000 people. Here's more of what sets Icon of the Seas apart."
• X blocks searches for Taylor Swift after explicit AI images of her go viral - "In a statement to the BBC, X's head of business operations Joe Benarroch said it was a 'temporary action' to prioritise safety."
• Sleep tight: A curious history of beds through the centuries - "From beds for Roman newlyweds, to 'hangover' benches for 19th-Century workers: the pursuit of a good night's sleep has followed us through the ages."
• Bayeux Museum lands 1872 reproduction of tapestry from Rolling Stone's estate - "Lifesize replica of 70-metre work, which cost museum £16,000, was part of sale of late drummer Charlie Watts's estate."
• The latest fashion rules: buy pre-loved labels & just five new items a year - "With a former Vogue editor running jumble sales, and fashionistas vowing to buy fewer clothes, attitudes to style are changing fast."
• The Biggest British-American Tea Kerfuffle Since ... Well, You Know - "An American chemistry professor has a surprising thought about how to make the best cup of tea: Add a pinch of salt. Not everyone in Britain is eager to embrace the idea."
• John Malkovich on (Really) Being John Malkovich - "He has played a million different parts, but somehow they’re all defined by the unmistakable, enigmatic, magnetic presence of Malkovich."
• 5 reasons you should use Tidal over Spotify & Apple Music - "1. Masters of sound (quality) ... 2. Superior audio settings. ... 3. Third-party spatial audio support. ... 4. It pays artists better. ... 5. True lossless tracks for offline listening - at the highest quality available."
• ChatGPT vs. Google Bard vs. Bing Chat vs. Claude: Which generative AI solution is best? - "Here's a comparison of genAI tools ChatGPT, Bard, Bing Chat Balanced, Bing Chat Creative, and Claude based on four metrics."
• 'Dry-Clean Only'? Not Necessarily - "Many textiles are better off being cleaned in the washing machine or the sink - even if the label reads 'dry-clean only.' Cashmere is thought of as a material that must be dry cleaned, but experts we've spoken to insisted that hand-washing is actually better for your garment in the long run."
• Neuroscience Says 1 Simple Habit Boosts Brain Connectivity, Learning & Memory - "Recent neuroscience research helps explain why, when it comes to learning and remembering, writing by hand is better than typing with a keyboard."
• Why it's time to get a new notebook: ‘To grab at life, tug at the details & hold on’ - "I'm a fervent note-taker. Writing down observations is a way of marking presence in the world. It's how I remember to pay attention. Besides, recording thoughts, plans and ideas supplies an instant illusion of organisation. I find the trick gratifying even while understanding I may never again remember why I took that note, or what it meant."
• Want To Improve? Rewire Your Brain's Neural Pathways - "If the award-winning 1967 movie The Graduate were remade today, the film's memorable word would need to switch from 'plastics' to 'plasticity,' to mark the present as well as the future. Plasticity - namely, neuroplasticity, which is the brain's ability to adapt—provides individuals with far - reaching, meaningful opportunities, especially as the adoption of artificial intelligence accelerates."
• 10 Best Bodyweight Exercises To Build a Lean Upper Body - "These bodyweight exercises that help you sculpt a lean upper body are perfect for all fitness levels."
• 20 Highest Quality Rums in the World - "Rum is arguably one of the earliest known spirits due to its simple production process. Its main ingredient, sugarcane, was first known to be fermented as early as 350 BC in India. The production of sugarcane increased over time as explorers discovered islands with the perfect growing climate. Many of the best rums in the world are made in the Caribbean."
• What to do with your collection of books after you’ve finished reading them - "Books can be displayed in a variety of ways around the home for a visually pleasing look."
• 11 Vintage Interiors Books to Fuel Your Home Design Fantasies - "From Edith Wharton’s treatise on décor to a portrait of 1990s Tokyo, the books that designers return to again and again for inspiration."
• Bernard Arnault surpasses Elon Musk as World's Richest, Forbes Report - "Forbes magazine's latest report reveals that Bernard Arnault, the billionaire chairman of LVMH (Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton), a conglomerate that owns numerous luxury brands, has now become the world's wealthiest individual, surpassing Elon Musk."
• The Best Exercises to Keep You Healthy as You Age - "It's a common myth that exercise isn't safe for older adults. Here's how to stay fit while avoiding injuries or issues. 150 minutes a week minimum of moderate aerobic activity, such as brisk walking, or 75 minutes of vigorous activity, like jogging. Two days a week minimum of strengthening exercises, like lifting weights. Balance improving activities, like balancing on one foot."
• Here's how & why you should set up cardio fitness on Apple Watch & iPhone - "One of the valuable, and lesser-known health features of Apple Watch is cardio fitness. The measurement is based on your VO₂ max which Apple Watch can estimate when recording three specific workouts. Follow along for a look at how to use cardio fitness on Apple Watch and iPhone including why it's important, how to set it up, and how to measure/view cardio fitness levels."
• The Right Way To Fill Your Blender for Smoothies, According to Vitamix - "It turns out the best way to get a creamy smoothie and protect your blender is to layer your ingredients in a specific way. Here's what Vitamix recommends."
• How to Cook Salmon in the Microwave - "This appliance can turn out perfectly cooked salmon in less than 10 minutes. After a gentle learning curve, it is foolproof: Add salmon, water and salt to a microwave-safe dish, cover, cook for 3 or 4 minutes and let it rest for the same amount of time. What emerges are buttery flaky fillets, rich in flavor, that require no oil or messy cleanup, at the touch of a few buttons."
• Drinking tea every day delays biological aging - "This finding by Chinese scientists hints at the possibility that the traditional brew, rich in certain health-promoting compounds, may play a role in enhancing longevity. Historically, black tea has been recognized for its potential health benefits, particularly in enhancing heart, gut, and brain health. Moreover, animal studies have indicated that flavonoids, abundantly found in tea, could potentially increase the lifespan of organisms ranging from worms and flies to mice."
• Taylor Swift deepfakes spark calls in Congress for new legislation - "US politicians have called for new laws to criminalise the creation of deepfake images, after explicit faked photos of Taylor Swift were viewed millions of times online."
• Copilot Cheat Sheet (Formerly Bing Chat): Complete Guide for 2024 - "Learn everything you need to know about Microsoft Copilot's Bing AI chatbot (formerly Bing Chat), its features, capabilities, limitations and more."
• Weirdest Chatbots on OpenAI's GPT Store, Ranked - "Gizmodo tested out the strangest chatbots on OpenAI's new GPT Store like a Jesus GPT and a Hitler GPT, and now we're feeling strange about AI altogether."
• Apple is about to change iPhone web browsing forever - "Apple has today announced a major change that could revolutionize the web-browsing experience for iPhone users. To comply with the EU's landmark Digital Markets Act (DMA), Apple says it will allow developers to use other browser engines for their web browsers. That means Apple will no longer force them to use its own WebKit rendering engine, which is the underlying tech behind what any web browser can do on your phone."
• The world's biggest cruise ship is finally setting sail. Here's why it's making waves - "This cruise ship can carry nearly 10,000 people. Here&339;s more of what sets Icon of the Seas apart."
• The best things to experience in Saudi Arabia according to the people who know it - "Where are some of the best places in this emerging tourism destination to go? We asked some of the people who know it best – regular visitors and Saudis themselves. From celebrities to rocket scientists, here’s what they recommend."
• On the menu for 2024 ... 20 chefs & food writers pick their dream meals across Europe - "From roast goat in Greece to rhubarb cake in Romania, we ask the experts where they'll be going for their culinary fix this year."
• Gown girl: The most eye-catching looks from the Paris couture shows - "The bi-annual couture shows in Paris are a showcase of bold ideas from the best fashion designers working today, crafted by some of the world's most skilled artisans. It’s art, in a way."
• Feud: Capote vs the Swans: How a scandalous Truman Capote story exposed the secrets of US high society - "A star-studded new miniseries from Ryan Murphy looks at how the author betrayed the confidence of some of America's most elite women - and destroyed his career in the process."
• The Best Part of Tiny Living? The 'Freedom We Have Created for Ourselves.' - "With a little house in The Hague, a compact getaway on the Italian island of Sardinia and a well-designed camper van, who needs a conventional home?"
• '€600k to pay off her overdraft': aide lifts lid on Monaco royals' lavish spending - "Sacked after 22 years as family’s principal asset manager, Claude Palmero has shared shocking details with French media. Five black notebooks filled with details of the family’s dealings have found their way to the French media, and Palmero has spoken at length to Le Monde for a series of articles shocking even in a playground for the super-rich."
• AI newspresenters: can they be trusted? - "TV channels are using AI-generated presenters to read the news. The question is, will we trust them? A start-up is developing a news service presented by anchors created by artificial intelligence. Will it upend decades of parasocial relationships between television audiences and the people they watch on screen?"
• ‘Rewinding human mistakes’: can IVF save the world's most threatened species? - "Technology, viewed as last-ditch insurance policy, this week led to first successful white rhino embryo transfer."
• Making Deepfakes Gets Cheaper & Easier Thanks to A.I. - "Meme-makers and misinformation peddlers are embracing artificial intelligence tools to create convincing fake videos on the cheap. Making realistic fake videos, often called deepfakes, once required elaborate software to put one person's face onto another's. But now, many of the tools to create them are available to everyday consumers - even on smartphone apps, and often for little to no money."
• Explaining the real mystery behind 'The Shining' - "The fact that Redrum' is 'murder' backwards is one of the most obvious movie trivia facts in all of cinema, though the true meaning of the word in the film, as well as the river of blood that emerges from a hotel elevator, has long been up for debate."
• 'That's just normal forgetting': the difference between memory loss & dementia & how to protect your brain - "The odd memory lapse is no big deal - so when should we start to worry? Experts explain, and share the best ways to stay sharp."
• 24 Breakfast Recipes to Make You a Morning Person - "Don’t rise and grind. Rise and dine. 15 Minutes or Less | Under 35 Minutes Brunches | Make-Ahead Marvels."
• Move Over Espresso Martini - The carajillo Is Poised to Become the Caffeinated Cocktail of 2024 - "The next time you’re tempted to request an espresso martini, ask for a carajillo instead. This delightfully simple concoction is a mix of one part espresso and one part Licor 43 (a Spanish liquor whose 43-ingredient recipe has been kept under wraps since 1948, when the Zamora family first invented the saccharine herbal blend) poured over ice. Where the espresso martini is sharp and bitter, the carajillo is sweet, with notes of vanilla, chocolate, and citrus."
• You come face to face with a lion in the wild. Here’s what to do - "You come face to face with a lion in the wild. Would you know what to do next?"
• Apple announces sweeping changes for apps in Europe - "Allowing third-party app stores for the first time."
• Here's how Apple will check if your iPhone or iPad is eligible for sideloading - "It's official: Apple today released iOS 17.4 beta, which enables sideloading for users in the European Union due to the new Digital Markets Act (DMA) antitrust legislation. Unsurprisingly, the changes Apple made to comply with the EU won't be available to the rest of the world, but here's how exactly Apple will check if your iPhone or iPad is eligible for sideloading."
• Monaco: The princely family's financial secrets revealed - "Inside Charlene's 'dangerous' spending: Monaco Princess hired 'illegal immigrants' on £90 a day including nannies she handed her newborn twins to and a woman who 'ties up dogs in the shower', former palace accountant claims. Albert's former accountant Claude Palmero shared the claims in his notebook. Prince Albert's son Alexandre Grimaldi-Coste, 20, says he's 'really close' with the Monaco royal family."
• Going Once, Going Twice: How to Bid on a First-Class Seat - "Fliers on some airlines can upgrade at a discounted rate to avoid what could be a cramped flight. With some cruise ships and even Amtrak getting in on the act, is bidding up worth it? The following is what I learned, and explains why you might find upgrade auctions on your next flight, train ride or cruise. How auctions work."
• 10 Ways to Support Your Mental Health in 2024 - "These simple and proven strategies will help you manage stress and find meaning in the new year."
• ChatGPT Plus vs Copilot Pro - which premium chatbot is better? - "Here's what's worth your $20 per month. The two tools are pretty similar and its hard to distinguish between them. They are both the same price, have the same core feature set and serve more or less the same purpose. If you exclude integration with 365 because you use other office products like Google Workspace then ChatGPT wins outright."
• Brad Pitt facelift rumours go viral as doctor explains tell-tale sign he's had secret £100,000 surgery - "Fans say actor, 60, is ageing backwards like Benjamin Button."
• Is Dyeing Your Hair Bad for Your Health? - "Here’s what the research suggests about the link between hair dye and cancer."
• Best USB-C accessories to pair with your new iPhone 15, Android & more - "Hello, new cables, dongles and storage drives."
• this 140w portable charger powered 7 devices devices for me before needing to recharge - "Need emergency power for your dying devices? The best power banks will keep your battery life topped up, so you never miss a beat."
• The 24 Brands to Watch in 2024 - "This year's most promising trends, product launches and anniversaries - and the companies behind them all."
• 15 of History's Greatest Mysteries - "From a book no one can decipher and puzzling disappearances to unsolved crimes and beyond, many of these historical mysteries still have us scratching our heads."
• 11 Reasons to Avoid a Kindle Paperwhite Today - "When considering whether to get the Kindle Paperwhite, remember that you already own a phone with similar features and that buying a new gadget won’t make you read more."
• You Can Get Hundreds of Free Cozy Mystery E-books This Week - "Stuff your Kindle with hundreds of free mystery and mystery-adjacent e-books. The Cozy Mystery Book Blast event is this week, and you can get hundreds of contemporary, historical, and paranormal e-books for free."
• 13 Mistakes Everyone Makes When Cleaning Their Coffee Maker - "Because of the complexity of some coffee machine's designs, though, and the different materials used, it's easy to clean them improperly, lazily, or else use cleaning materials that don't suit each part."
• Artisse - "The world's first AI photographer." Our unique AI algorithm doesn't just transform your selfies into high-quality images, it allows you to personalize every detail. Visualize yourself in a myriad of scenarios, outfits, hairstyles, and more.
• Artisse can generate AI photos of you from prompts, templates or even a reference pic - "Artisse is the latest AI photo creation app to allow users to generate AI photos of themselves by first uploading a series of selfies."
• Bad behavior on planes is surging. Here’s why - "Unruly passengers were a problem before the pandemic. Now they’re even worse."
• New AirPods Pro & AirPods 2 firmware just arrived - "It's that time again. Apple is releasing another round of somewhat nebulous AirPods firmware updates. This time it's the AirPods Pro and AirPods 2 hardware that's due for an update. Like AirPods 3 earlier this month, AirPods Pro and AirPods 2 firmware is now up to version 6A321. Apple explains how to update AirPods firmware by charging while on Wi-Fi."
• Make the best espresso martini with these fantastic recipes - "Curious about the trendy espresso martini? Here are some recipes worth trying."
• I'm a barista - these are the different types of coffee makers you need to know - "Your go-to guide for the different types of coffee makers. A barista explains the pros and cons of each type and how to pick the best one for your home."
• The Mental Trick That Makes Your Photography Much Better - "Become a better photographer by understanding how breaking conformity and the mental trick of it makes people stare at your images."
• Can the World's Largest Cruise Ship Really Be Climate-Friendly? - "The newly christened Icon of the Seas is filled with energy-efficient technology. But some climate experts say the biggest challenge with a ship that can accommodate nearly 8,000 people is its size. With the capacity to carry nearly 8,000 people, the 20-deck, 1,198-foot-long vessel is the size of a small city. There are eight 'neighborhoods' packed with amenities that include a 55-foot waterfall, six water slides and more than 40 restaurants, bars and entertainment venues."
• 2024 Razzie Award Nominations: See the Full List - "2024 Razzie Awards nominations include nods for Jennifer Lopez, Megan Fox, Dame Helen Mirren, Sylvester Stallone and more: See the list."
• The Biggest Oscar Snubs & Surprises 2024: Greta Gerwig & Margot Robbie Miss Out in Key Races - "It was a strong year for female directors overall, though the academy still seems to frown on younger male actors."
• Ryan Gosling says what everyone’s thinking about ‘Barbie’ Oscar nomination omissions: Read his full statement - "Ryan Gosling is grateful for his Oscar nomination, but joined the chorus of people who question the omission of his costar Margot Robbie and director Greta Gerwig from their individual respective categories."
• US election 2024: A really simple guide - "Americans will head to the polls in November 2024 to elect the next US president. The person sitting in the White House's Oval Office has a big influence on people's lives both at home and abroad, so the outcome of this election matters for everyone."
• The Doomsday Clock reveals how close we are to total annihilation - "The Doomsday Clock that has been ticking for 77 years is no ordinary clock - it attempts to gauge how close humanity is to destroying the world. On Tuesday, the clock was again set at 90 seconds to midnight - the closest to the hour it has ever been, according to the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, which created the clock in 1947."
• The first ever Mac is 40 & still in use - "On 24 January 1984, the Apple Macintosh 128K personal computer was unveiled to the world, but 40 years later it still has a loyal following of fans - and users."
• That Smartphone in Your Hand Changes How You Walk - "Hunching over a device can mess with your gait, slow you down and poison your mood. And that's before you trip and fall."
• The Strange Things Alexander the Great Brought to Europe from Asia - "Alexander the Great brought bananas, parakeets, cotton, and sugar from India to Europe, as well as crucifixion from Persia."
• Take the 30-Second Power Test - "You need more than strength to age well - you also need power. Here's how to measure how much you have. Start a timer for 30 seconds and count how many times you can move from sitting to standing. Men over 65 should be able to do 12 or more; women over 65 should do 11 or more. If you score below that, you may be low on power."
• The Man Who All But Created Vintage Fashion - "Fifty years ago Didier Ludot opened his couture resale boutique in Paris and changed style forever."
• How to spot a liar: 10 essential tells - from random laughter to copycat gestures - "The Traitors has shown just how adept some people are at lying. Here, an ex-FBI agent, a psychologist and a fraud investigator share their best tips for detecting dishonesty."
• The World's Best Vodka - According To The International Wine & Spirits Competition - "The bottle in question is Prosperous Vodka, crafted by the Kriol Distillery. What makes it so noteworthy? Well, for starters it earned an incredible score of 99 out of 100. That's enough to set it apart as not only the highest rated vodka at the competition, but also one of the highest rated spirits across all categories."
• Oscar nominations 2024: See the full list - "Oppenheimer scoops 13 Oscar nominations."
• Time Out reveals world's best cities for 2024 - "Perhaps it's no wonder, then, that media company Time Out has named New York City as its best city for 2024. Time Out surveyed some 20,000 city-dwellers across the world, alongside its network of global writers and editors, to compile its latest round-up of the best cities in the globe. Factors including cities’ food scenes, architecture and cultural happenings were taken into account."
• Apple Releases iOS 17.3 & iPadOS 17.3 With Stolen Device Protection, Collaborative Apple Music Playlists & More - "With iOS 17.3, Apple is adding Stolen Device Protection to the iPhone, limiting access to private information just in case someone gets ahold of both your iPhone and your passcode. It requires biometric authentication to do things like access passwords, turn off Lost Mode, make purchases in Safari, and more. The update also includes support for AirPlaying content directly to some hotel room TVs, creating collaborative Apple Music playlists with friends and family, and more."
• These Japanese beef croquettes are so popular there+s a 43-year waitlist - "If you order a box of frozen Kobe beef croquettes from Asahiya, a family-run butcher shop in Takasago City in western Japan's Hyogo Prefecture, it'll take another 43 years before you receive your order. That isn't a typo. Forty. Three. Years. Founded in 1926, Asahiya sold meat products from Hyogo prefecture - Kobe beef included - for decades before adding beef croquettes to the shelf in the years following WWII. But it wasn't until the early 2000s that these deep-fried potato and beef dumplings became an internet sensation, resulting in the ridiculously long wait buyers now face."
• From London to New York: Can quitting cars be popular? - "Cities around the world reveal surprising truths about getting the public on board with cutting car-use."
• The strange reasons medieval people slept in cupboards - "These cosy, wardrobe-like pieces of furniture could reportedly sleep up to five people. Why did they fall out of fashion?"
• Blood test could revolutionise diagnosis of Alzheimer's, experts say - "Study finds measuring levels of a protein could be just as good at detecting disease as lumbar punctures."
• Global 500 2024 | The Annual Brand Value Ranking - "Apple clinches top spot as world's most valuable brand, outshining Amazon, Google, and Microsoft. Apple achieves remarkable 74% growth in brand value, reclaiming its title as the world's most valuable brand by huge margin."
• Red Sea crisis: What it takes to reroute the world's biggest cargo ships on a 4,000 mile detour - "Hundreds of cargo ships and tankers are being rerouted around the southern tip of Africa to avoid Houthi attacks in the Red Sea. But just how easy is it to divert the world's biggest ships?"
• How Group Chats Rule the World - "They quietly became the de facto spaces to share dumb jokes, grief or even plans for an insurrection."
• UK super-rich would be ‘bored to death’ in tax havens - survey - "Interviews with top earners reveal many are too attached to UK’s cultural institutions and fear stigma surrounding economic migration."
• What Happens When You Quit Caffeine? An Expert Explains The Hidden Benefits - "Caffeine is the most consumed psychoactive compound in the world. Even if you don't drink coffee or tea, you probably still regularly consume caffeine since it's found in everything from fizzy drinks and cold remedies to decaf coffee and chocolate. Caffeine withdrawal can cause headaches, fatigue and tiredness. This is because the body develops a tolerance to caffeine. Caffeine binds to a receptor in the brain used by adenosine. The binding of caffeine to these receptors causes the body to delay the onset of fatigue."
• Is Coffee Good for You? - "Yes! But it depends on the kind of coffee and the quantity."
• How Coffee Farmers in Hawaii Fought Counterfeit Kona Beans - "On the volcanic slopes of Hawaii’s Big Island, hundreds of farmers in the Kona region produce one of the most expensive coffees in the world. A testing method borrowed from geology helped farmers sue a slew of stores selling supposed 'Kona' coffee."
• The heart rate secret: what it reveals about our health - from sleep & alcohol to fight or flight - "There are more and more ways to monitor our heart rates, but what do the numbers really mean? Here is everything you need to know."
• Which is the best folding phone-tablet? Cutting-edge Androids face off - "Samsung's leading Galaxy Z Fold tested against challengers from Google Pixel, OnePlus and Honor to see which folder is top dog."
• TOP 10 PRODUCTS DESIGNED FOR TOP NOTCH STORAGE & ORGANIZATION OF YOUR DESK - "A cluttered desk can really be the worst thing to start your day with! It hampers your productivity and completely bogs down your mind, making it difficult to complete even the simplest of tasks. This is where I find desk organizers and other storage solutions to be ideal. We’ve collected a range of functional, practical, and aesthetically pleasing products that will organize your desk completely, while also storing away all your essentials efficiently."
• Friendly Reminder: Clear Your iPhone's Cache - "Give your iPhone a fresh start by clearing your browser cache. Just like every other piece of tech, your iPhone needs a little maintenance every now and then, especially if your browsing starts to feel sluggish over time. It takes only a few seconds."
• Best Turntables 2024: Choosing the very best record players - "Who would have thought twenty years ago that new vinyl players would appear on the market much more often than CD players?"
• Flight attendants want you to stop ignoring them. Here’s why - "Flight attendants are trained to handle everything from disruptive passengers and potential human trafficking incidents to unexpected aircraft evacuations. While airplane accidents are rare, flight crews prepare extensively for emergencies."
• Airfare hasn’t been this cheap since 2009 - "If you’re searching for a silver lining, look to the clouds. While the cost of living is spiraling and hitting groceries and other everyday costs hard, the price of plane tickets is at a 15-year low - in the United States, at least."
• How the three-year cruise fell apart - "The high hopes and eventual failure of the Life at Sea cruise reads a bit like a Greek tragedy. Over the past 10 months, as it went from dream to nightmare."
• ‘Mattering’ is the buzzword being used at Davos as the secret to management in a hybrid-working economy - "The pillars are: protection from harm, the opportunity for growth, connection and community, work-life harmony and mattering at work."
• What’s the Status of Flaunting Your Status? - "In the world of the ultrawealthy, luxury is only quiet if you don’t know what to listen for."
• What the Ultrarich Wear to the Grocery Store - "The Class of Palm Beach social media accounts showcase designer-label-laden outfits spotted around that wealthy town."
• Five unusual historical experiences in London - "From digging for fossilised shark teeth to exploring a church built by the Knights Templar, here are five places where London's past becomes vividly real."
• Pharrell Williams Wearing The World's Thinnest Watch - "Pharrell takes a runway bow for his second Paris show as creative director of Louis Vuitton menswear in jeans, a cowboy hat, and the world's thinnest watch."
• The Xreal Air 2 Pro make the best case yet for AR smart glasses - "The Xreal Air 2 Pro's excellent performance and slick design make them some of the best augmented reality glasses around."
• The Best TVs of 2024 - "Our favorite TVs deliver superior picture quality for a reasonable price. We've spent hundreds of hours researching and testing to find the best option for any space or budget, so read on to find the right TV for you." NYT Wirecutter.
• 10 benefits of walking every day; ways to increase your daily steps - "Whether it's a brisk walk in the morning or a stroll post lunch, every step counts and helps you move towards a healthier body and mind."
• Arnold Schwarzenegger's undeclared watch fetches $294K at climate auction - "The wristwatch that landed Arnold Schwarzenegger in detainment at Munich Airport on Wednesday raised €270,000 ($294,000) after being sold at a dinner in Austria for his charity, the Schwarzenegger Climate Initiative."
• Alec Baldwin faces fresh manslaughter charge over 'Rust' shooting - "A grand jury in New Mexico has charged Alec Baldwin with a fresh count of involuntary manslaughter over a fatal movie set shooting in October 2021."
• Test Yourself: Which Faces Were Made by A.I.? - "Researchers believe A.I. tools excel at producing hyper-realistic faces because they were trained on tens of thousands of images of real people. See if you can identify which of these images are real people and which are A.I.-generated."
• Oxfam points to 5 likely candidates to be the world's first trillionaire - "Here's where the fortunes of Musk, Arnault, Bezos, Ellison and Buffett stand today. The world might see its first trillionaire sooner than you think. And that puts a spotlight on today's richest 1%. In an annual assessment of global inequalities published earlier this week, Oxfam International said the first trillionaire could emerge within the next decade - as the anti-poverty organization pointed to the growing wealth gap that skyrocketed globally during the COVID-19 pandemic."
• Breathtaking: 24 secret beaches in southern Europe - "Dreaming of warm seas and quiet, sunny shores? Our travel writers pick their favourite beaches in Greece, Spain, France, Croatia, Italy and Portgual."
• Stocks Are in a Bull Market. What Does That Mean? - "It doesn’t mean stocks will continue to rise indefinitely, but it does reflect a generally optimistic outlook on Wall Street."
• China’s Severed Air Links Drain $130 Billion From Global Tourism - "A familiar visitor has retreated from the world's skyways and tourist meccas. Chinese travelers, once the biggest spenders on overseas trips, have been staying close to home since the country reopened its borders 12 months ago from the Covid-19 pandemic."
• Why You Should Eat More Nuts & Seeds - "They're packed with protein, fiber and healthy fats. Nuts and seeds are also impressive sources of heart-healthy fats, which have been linked to improved cholesterol levels and protection from cardiovascular disease."
• The Magic of Olive Oil, Fish & Other Healthy Fats - "Researchers believe that olive oil, the preferred fat source in the Mediterranean diet, may be one of the main contributors to its health benefits. It’s rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can prevent damage to your cells and blood vessels."
• What We Know About Multivitamins & Memory - "New research suggests a daily vitamin can improve cognition. But that doesn’t mean everyone should take one. A new study reported that adults 60 and older who took a daily multivitamin for two years scored higher on memory and cognitive tests than those who took a placebo - a rare example of a clinical trial finding that a nutritional supplement might actually benefit healthy people."
• You May Want to Replace These Household Essentials - "Nothing lasts forever, but even items that Wirecutter recommends need to be replaced every so often. Here’s when you should swap out certain products that you probably use every day."
• Amazon Kindle Paperwhite - "The best Kindle 2024. The best Kindle for most people." The Amazon Paperwhite is the ideal electronic book reader, and you can take it just about anywhere you might take a regular old book. You can read in the bathtub, or by the pool, with less worry than you'd have holding a paperback, because the Paperwhite can get wet, no problem. You can read in bed and the Paperwhite will adjust to a warm backlight to make your eyes more comfortable.
• Forget Apple Vision Pro - rabbit r1 is 2024’s most exciting launch yet - "Apple is doing everything it can to make VR happen, but a tiny startup has a better vision of the future."
• Masimo - the company that got the Apple Watch banned - has unveiled its new smartwatch - "The Masimo Freedom has all the tech Apple can't use."
• TOP 10 NOTE-TAKING ACCESSORIES FOR REMOTE WORKERS TO EFFICIENTLY SCRIBBLE DOWN THEIR IDEAS - "The collection of stationery items placed on a desk is what makes it truly shine! The true value and efficiency of your desk lie in the smart assortment of designs you adorn it with – these are after all the objects that are gonna help you get through your workday, and directly or indirectly affect your productivity. And if you’re someone who works better with taking notes and jotting down your plans and ideas, then this collection of note-taking accessories and designs is for you! From a personal whiteboard that lets you take notes anytime anywhere to a levitating pen - these accessories are a must-have for your desk. Happy writing!"
• Forget planks - I did 100 walking push-ups every day for one week & here are my results - "A walking push-up, side-to-side push-up, or traveling push-up (however you prefer to name it) is a push-up variation that hits your pecs, triceps, core and shoulders hard while you walk your hands from side to side, isolating each side of the body to increase the intensity."
• Teslas crash more than gas-powered cars. Here’s why - "The increase in incidents is highest during the first year or so after drivers get the new electric vehicle, but then tapers off after that, according to LexisNexis, presumably as people get used to driving the new model. There is much less of a problem when a driver changes from a gasoline-powered vehicle to another gas-powered one, they found."
• This train goes nowhere. Now it’s a luxury attraction - "South Africa is home to some of the most luxurious, nostalgic train journeys on offer anywhere in the world. But for certain enthusiasts, a train going nowhere is the country’s star attraction. Kruger Shalati: The Train on the Bridge is a hotel in Skukuza in Kruger National Park, one of Africa’s largest game reserves and part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site."
• Google unveils a new way to search - "Google announced on Thursday two new AI tools that it says will make searching for things online 'radically more helpful.' The first feature, called Circle to Search, allows Android users to circle, tap, highlight or scribble on pictures, videos or text to learn more about what they see, such as a landmark in the back of someone’s social media page. In addition, starting Thursday, people will be able to point their mobile camera (or upload a photo or screenshot) and ask a question via the Google app to get information."
• Mongolia's new snow & ice festival sets Guinness World Record - "One of the world’s coldest cities has a new snow and ice festival. The inaugural Mazaalai International Snow and Ice Festival, which kicked off on January 14, takes place till January 28 at Sky Resort, a golf and ski resort on the outskirts of Ulaanbaatar."
• What really keeps cable cars safe? - "The Alpine acrobatics that make ski lift journeys safer. Cable cars have transformed life in the Alps and around the world. But when operating at high altitudes, often in extreme conditions, what does it take to keep them safe?"
• Jeff Bezos Says You Can Never Be Proud Of Being Handsome, Beautiful, Smart Or Tall Because Those Are 'Gifts' - "You Didn't Do Anything: 'You Can Only Be Proud Of Your Choices Because Those Are The Things That You Are Acting On'."
• At Art Fraud Trial, Sotheby's Is Pressed on Role in Sales to Russian Oligarch - "The auction house is accused of helping an art dealer who the oligarch says defrauded him in several sales. A Sotheby's specialist involved in some of the transactions defended his conduct."
• The little-known truth about vanilla - "Without the discovery of hand-pollination by an enslaved boy 180 years ago, this beloved spice might never have thrived outside of Mexico."
• The beauty game changers for 2024? An AI foundation & vegan red lipstick - "Truly pioneering products are rare - but these two items are the real deal. Genius British brand Dcypher rejects this process. Instead, it relies on AI to analyse your skin tone using a 60-second online process, and then custom-blends your unique shade to order. Carisa Janes, founder of Hourglass Cosmetics, rejected the industry standard and, after three years' research alongside parent company Unilever, has developed Confession Red 0, a refillable, 100% vegan, patent-pending lipstick for which not a single insect was harmed."
• Can Dieting Actually Lead to Long-Term Weight Loss? - "We asked experts to explain what diets can (and can’t) do for our health."
• How to Put Fruits & Vegetables at the Center of Your Plate - "From frozen berries to leafy greens, here's inspiration for eating more of these Mediterranean diet superstars."
• Looking for Little Ways to Eat Healthier? Start With Whole Grains - "Start With Whole Grains. Crusty bread, brown rice, nutty farro. Our guide is packed with inspiration for nutritious cooking."
• Tight on Time? How to Make the Most of a Short Workout - "Combining resistance training and cardio will get your heart pumping, even if you only have 15 or 20 minutes to spare."
• It's Probably Time to Clean Your Water Bottle - "How to Clean Your Water Bottle and Avoid Mold. To keep your water bottle clean, wash it every day, or at the absolute minimum, once a week. If it is dishwasher-safe, wash it on the hottest water setting. If you’re hand-washing, make sure to use a bottle brush to clean narrow necks and the inside of straws."
• Vision Pro apps: the good, the bad & the ridiculous - "Apple's Vision Pro is Apple's newest computing platform, and that means we're going to see a whole bunch of new apps. But getting snubbed by Netflix, Spotify and YouTube means that the most popular streaming apps won't be available when the headset launches on February 2."
• Arnold Schwarzenegger held at Munich airport after failing to declare expensive watch - "Arnold Schwarzenegger will face criminal tax proceedings after failing to declare an item upon arrival to Germany, a Munich Customs press officer told CNN Wednesday. 'Arnold was detained for three hours today at Munich airport for traveling with a watch he owns, that he might be auctioning at his charity auction tomorrow in Kitzbuhel (in Austria),' a source close to the actor told CNN. The source said the item in question was a watch from Swiss luxury brand Audemars Piguet."
• Lakshadweep: Can India's 'alternative Maldives' handle mass tourism? - "Many locals say that what they need is responsible tourism in which they are stakeholders, not large-scale development plans that will overturn their way of life."
• Antarctic tourism: Should we just say no? - "The last tourism destination on earth. More people are visiting the frozen continent than ever before. Has the very idea of Antarctic tourism become unethical?"
• Greenland losing 30m tonnes of ice an hour, study reveals - "Total is 20% higher than thought and may have implications for collapse of globally important north Atlantic ocean currents."
• A chocolate cake made for Denmark's newly crowned king - "As Denmark celebrates the crowning of King Frederik X, one legendary patisserie, Conditori La Glace, has prepared a decadent chocolate cake honouring the new monarch."
• Flight attendant says ‘expect to get bad service’ if you hear code word - "Flight attendants 'use a seven-letter word' in communication with each other, which is code for a passenger they are becoming frustrated with."
• Extreme exhaustion & burnout: How it happens & what to do about it - "Feelings of fatigue are worryingly common, and in some cases, burnout can be extremely debilitating. So what might we do to treat this malaise?"
• Bill Gates explains how AI will change our lives in 5 years - "It's no secret that Bill Gates is bullish on artificial intelligence, but he's now predicting that the technology will be transformative for everyone within the next five years."
• Weight gain in children & adults linked to 100% fruit juice, study says - "'One fundamental problem with juice is quantity; consuming fruit this way makes it so easy to overdose. How often do we eat three oranges? Yet, a glass of OJ is about three oranges that can be consumed in a minute or two, and that will add many calories and lead to a spike in blood glucose.'"
• It took 5 months to get this ‘million-dollar’ photo - "Why a rare image of one of Malaysia’s last tigers is giving conservationists hope."
• Watch Spotting: King Frederik X Of Denmark Takes The Throne Wearing An Omega Seamaster 300M On A NATO - "Forget the 'rules' of what counts as a dress watch. When you're the King, you can wear what you like."
• Dubai is building the world's tallest residential clocktower - "The Aeternitas Tower, officially unveiled at a launch event last week, will be the world's tallest residential clocktower at a staggering 450 meters (1,476 feet) tall. Aeternitas Tower is the result of a partnership between Dubai-based real estate developer London Gate and Swiss luxury watch manufacturer Franck Muller."
• $5 million boats & courses across the world. Welcome to the ‘fastest race on water’ - "The Mubadala Abu Dhabi Sail Grand Prix is new to the global 13-race calendar."
• The plastic oceans we can't see - "Visualising the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. In 1997 Captain Charles Moore was sailing from Hawaii to California when he noticed a steady stream of plastics bobbing in the ocean. He had discovered the Great Pacific Garbage Patch."
• Mediterranean diet pyramid today. Science & cultural updates - "Adopting a healthy lifestyle and preserving cultural elements should be considered in order to acquire all the benefits from the MD and preserve this cultural heritage. Considering the acknowledgment of the MD as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO (2010), and taking into account its contribution to health and general well-being, we hope to contribute to a much better adherence to this healthy dietary pattern and its way of life with this new graphic representation."
• Is there a reason to buy a Kindle anymore? - "If you weigh the Kindle line against any other device in the respective screen sizes class, there's virtually no reason to purchase Kindle e-readers anymore. Amazon has faced increased competition from major players across the e-reader industry who do things better."
• Hands-On Breguet Classique 5157 Review - The One I Want - "I like my watches simple. And I don’t dare to call this Breguet Classique 5157 a simple watch, but I love the simplicity of just having two hands, and more importantly, no date."
• ‘Succession’ gets its belated sendoff at the Emmy Awards, joined by ‘The Bear’ & ‘Beef’ - "After a four-month delay prompted by Hollywood’s twin actors and writers strikes, the 75th annual Emmy Awards finally got around to a night teeming with nostalgia and near-sweeps, with 'Succession,' 'The Bear' and 'Beef' dominating their respective categories."
• ‘Oppenheimer’ Leads Critics Choice Awards With 8 Wins, ‘Barbie’ Scores 6 - Full Winners List - "'The Bear' and 'Beef' dominated the television categories, with each taking home four awards."
• Elton John becomes an Egot after winning an Emmy award - "The 76-year-old singer won his first Emmy award, making him the 19th person to win an Emmy, an Oscar, a Tony and a Grammy - known as Egot status."
• Kate Moss at 50: A supermodel through the decades - "South London born Moss was scouted by a leading model agent at 14, and began appearing in magazines and commercials at 16. As she celebrates her milestone birthday, it’s not hard to see why she is still as revered as one of Vogue’s favorite cover stars."
• Waqra PukarÁ: Peru's mysterious 'horned fortress' - "Peru's unknown site to rival Machu Picchu. With January 2024 seeing the start of even bigger crowds at Machu Picchu, savvy travellers may be wise to head to the stunning edifice that barely anyone has heard of: Waqra Pukará."
• Top 6 Passive Income Cash Flow Assets For 2024 - "Top six assets for 2024 - real estate, dividend stocks, business ownership, intellectual property, paper assets, and covered call strategies - provide a comprehensive approach to building wealth. As with any investment strategy, conducting thorough research and considering the risks is essential."
• True Detective: Night Country review - "A blazing Jodie Foster makes this show better than ever before. At last, this show drops the bloated, male-dominated stories of earlier series for an icy murder case in Alaska - with blistering turns from Foster and Kali Reis."
• TOP 10 COFFEE MACHINES TO HELP COFFEE LOVERS PREPARE THE ULTIMATE + BEST CUP OF JOE - "From a warm and gentle capsule coffee machine to the Tesla of coffee machines - this collection of super cool and easy-to-use coffee machines will start you off on your coffee brewing journey. Cheers!"
• 6 GAME-CHANGING FEATURES THAT MAKE XBLOOM THE “TESLA OF COFFEE MACHINE” - "Dubbed the 'Tesla of Coffee Machines' by our Editor-in-Chief, the xBloom is the first-ever coffee machine that introduces an Autopilot feature to the art of making coffee. A pristine machine that looks like something out of a sci-fi future, the xBloom (designed by ex-Apple employees no less) identifies, grinds, dispenses, brews, and pours your coffee for you. It does so with some of the finest beans sourced from top roasters across the world, giving you the finest cup of coffee you can ever get with the press of a single button."
• Bookshelf wealth is the latest way to show people you're genuine - "Bookshelf wealth is an interior design trend that rejects minimalism or any overly-curated look. Bookshelf wealth refers to displaying books you've really read, not color-coordinated showpieces. The cozy aesthetic emphasizes showing off your individual interests and personality."
• ‘His success was rammed down my throat’: Charlie Chaplin's son Michael on fame, failure & finding peace - "He was the son of the most famous man in the world, a runaway hippy, a failed pop singer and then a goat farmer. Now, Michael J Chaplin is publishing the novel it took him decades to write."
• The hacks that can help to keep your home warmer - "Heat can escape from buildings in a number of ways, but there are some evidence-based, low-cost things you can do to help stay warm."
• A Pilates Routine You Can Do Anywhere in Under 10 Minutes - "Studies suggest the workout method can improve strength and posture, but it's not cheap to join a studio. Here's how to test the waters at home."
• 5 bodyweight strength building moves to boost your mood - "Crush Blue Monday with this short no equipment workout."
• Apple Car patent shows new approach to safety - "If you’re not facing forward, where do the airbags go? The so-called Apple Car isn’t coming any time soon - last we heard, it had been pushed back to 2026 at the earliest - but the company continues to work on it behind the scenes."
• Apple Watch drops blood oxygen features to dodge the import ban - "While neither the US Customs and Border Protection or Apple has given official confirmation, a letter from Masimo reveals the feature is going away on some devices."
• Denmark’s King Frederik X takes throne after Margrethe abdicates - "Tens of thousands on streets of Danish capital to see monarch hand over to eldest son."
• World’s five richest men double their money as poorest get poorer - "Oxfam predicts first trillionaire within a decade, with gap between rich and poor likely to increase."
• World Economic Forum Annual Meeting: 15–19 January - "Watch the live sessions here and get key updates on the event so far."
• Some of the World's Rarest (& Largest) Gems Are on View in L.A. - "It's one of the most spectacular precious stone exhibitions you're likely to see at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County called '100 Carats: Icons of the Gem World.'"
• Our favorite whiskeys for 2024, ranked - "We enjoy our whiskey neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail like an old fashioned or Manhattan. Luckily, there are myriad options available to fit any palate. There are classic standby expressions, limited releases, and everything in between."
• Stunning photographs capture starlings migrating through Europe - "Swooping up from the reeds and wetlands of southern Denmark, a storm of starlings rains across the horizon. The cluster of birds looks like droplets of ink across a parchment canvas, sprayed across a dusky sky where they dive and twirl in unison. The birds fold like waves on a shoreline, contorting into abstract formations that loom across the marshes."
• Monsieur Spade casts Clive Owen in a series that's nearly the stuff dreams are made of - "The latest installment of True Detective gets overshadowed by another six-episode limited series premiering the same night, only this one featuring a detective out of the past, Dashiell Hammett's Sam Spade. With a hat tip to The Maltese Falcon, AMC’s Monsieur Spade creates a nicely moody sequel built around the character, and if that's not quite the stuff dreams are made of, it comes wonderfully close."
• The best pour-over coffee makers of 2024, tried & tested - "A pour-over is the best way to recreate the rich, robust, full-flavored coffee you get at a specialty shop. Besides the soothing ritual involved with making pour-over coffee, the method is favored by professional and amateur baristas alike because a precise pour can extract the most flavor out of your beans into your cup."
• A Collector's Guide: The Cartier Crash - "As the Crash becomes one of the most collectible watches on the planet today, we dissect its historical significance, explore its myriad iterations and chart its price performance over time."
• Seeing Blue at Night May Not Be What's Keeping You Up After All - "New research suggests that blue light does not affect a person's 'internal clock.' The findings further our understanding of the effects of light on sleep quality and duration. Previous studies have shown that blue light from devices can damage the eyes and negatively impact sleep."
• Feel-Good Productivity: How to Do More of What Matters to You - "In this revolutionary book, Ali reveals how the science of feel-good productivity can transform your life. He introduces the three hidden 'energisers' that underpin enjoyable productivity, the three 'blockers' we must overcome to beat procrastination, and the three 'sustainers' that prevent burnout and help us achieve lasting fulfillment."
• How to multitask on an iPhone - "iOS supports some handy, albeit limited, multitasking features. How to multitask between apps: 1. Swipe up on the Home bar or double-click on the Home button if you have an older iPhone. 2. This reveals the App Switcher, which lists the applications you've opened. ... 3. To close an app, swipe up on it. 4. To enter an app, tap on it."
• Succession of the Danish throne - "Her Majesty the Queen announced in her New Year's Address on 31 December 2023 that Her Majesty will step down as Queen of Denmark on 14 January 2024 and will hand over the throne to HRH the Crown Prince."
• An eccentric Danish queen abdicates - will others follow? - "Queen Margrethe: Will abdication cause a ripple effect? Denmark's chain-smoking, flamboyant, polyglot Danish queen - who Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen described as the 'epitome of Denmark' - spent more than half a century on the throne. Danes have been proud of her quirks, her outspoken rejection of mobile phones and the internet, and her relaxed and playful air."
• Is Queen Margrethe Abdicating to Save Prince Frederik's Marriage to Princess Mary? - "The Queen herself linked it to her back surgery, saying, 'the operation also gave rise to thinking about the future - whether the time had come to leave the responsibility to the next generation,' many commentators were quick to point out the timing - specifically in the wake of the affair rumors surrounding Prince Frederik. So, did Prince Frederik have an affair? Has there been other drama? Here's everything you need to know."
• The 11 most exciting tech trends of 2024, according to CES 2024 - "A postcard from the near future, courtesy of CES 2024."
• Succession Auctions Off 'Ludicrously Capacious Bag' & Other, Less Capacious Props - "Bidding on memorabilia from the Emmy-winning drama ended on Saturday, drawing over $600,000 in total sales. A viciously mocked tote bag was among the auction’s most expensive items."
• The quiet status symbols you're going to be seeing everywhere in 2024 - "Luxury looks a little different in 2024. Unlike the logomania trend of years past, status symbols have gotten quieter - though no less expensive - in recent years. Now, people casually show their wealth with the skincare products on their bathroom counters, the machines they use to make coffee, and the jewelry on their wrists."
• The most complicated watches of all time | LISTS - "Celebrating complication with the most complicated watches of all time. Let's showcase some of the most complicated watches in history. Superbia Humanitatis, Paul Gerber, Franck Muller, Superbia Humanitatis."
• The 30 Best Red Wines for 2024 - "Here at VinePair we try mountains of red wine every year and encounter so many different styles from juicy and chillable Gamay to tannic and earthy Bordeaux blends. The following reds represent the cream of the crop - the bottles that stood out above the rest."
• What the 'future histories' of the 1920s can teach us about hope - "Historian Thomas Moynihan explores what we can learn from the hopeful and 'flagrantly fictional' forecasts written 100 years ago, just as humanity was emerging from a global pandemic, the end of the First World War and encountering rapid technological change."
• Witnessing the synchronised dance of a million starlings in Denmark - "As the sun falls over a vast marshland, more than a million starlings undulate in mesmerising murmurations. But how, exactly, they do it remains mysterious."
• Microsoft beats Apple as most valuable company for first time in two years - "With market capitalizations neck-and-neck at $2.887tn and $2.875tn, Microsoft pulls ahead due to worries about iPhone sales."
• From transparent TVs to ChatGPT-powered companions, here’s some of the buzziest tech of CES 2024 - "Tech companies showed quirky gadgets and new innovations at the Consumer Electronics show in Las Vegas this week, from AI-powered pillows that can reduce snoring and mirrors that can detect your mood to transparent televisions and car mirrors that track your eyes."
• It’s one of the world’s highest ski resorts. So where’s all the snow? - "The Gulmarg Ski Resort - one of the highest in the world - sits in the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas just over 50 kilometers from the city of Srinagar and about 20 kilometers from the 'Line of Control' (LoC), the de facto border that divides this disputed region between India and Pakistan."
• Europe's beautiful walkable city that feels like a 'small town' - "A breathtaking city in Europe is one of the continent's most walkable destinations and feels like a town. Ghent, a port city on Belgium's northwest coast, has one of Europe's largest car-free zones. The city pedestrianised vast areas in 1997."
• Considering a move abroad in 2024? These are the best countries for expats - "Thanks to the rise of remote work, new visa programs and tax incentives that entice digital nomads, investors and families, people considering an international move have more paths to explore."
• I swapped the gym for Schwarzenegger's two-move bodyweight workout - "It showed you can build muscle without weights. Strengthen your chest, arms and legs at home with Schwarzenegger's bodyweight challenge."
• 10 best psychological thriller movies ever, ranked - "The greatest psychological thrillers ever made range from the genre-defining classic Rear Window to the modern masterpiece Get Out to the incomparable and iconic The Silence of the Lambs."
• The World's Best Tequilas - 2023 Competition Edition - "Tequila is on quite a roll right now. One that still seems to catch many casual drinkers by surprise. They still associate Mexico's favorite spirit with face-squinching shots and tales of catching a worm in your teeth. Well, let me tell you, those days are long gone. Nowadays, there is a whole universe of high-quality agave-based spirits that are fantastic to sip and effortlessly blend into cocktails."
• Merlot Vs Pinot Noir: 8 Key Differences & Similarities - "Merlot wine is soft, medium-bodied, with low tannin and acidity. It has charming plum and pomegranate with red fruit and earthy flavors. Pinot Noir is the smoothest red wine with a velvety texture and raspberry and plum flavors. It also seduces you with strawberry and red cherry aromas."
• The Meme King of Longevity Now Wants to Sell You Olive Oil - "Bryan Johnson, a data-obsessed Silicon Valley centimillionaire, is promoting food and supplements that promise to help people live longer. Scientists say his program is highly questionable. So why are people flocking to it?"
• ChatGPT gets its equivalent of the App Store - "Here are the best early GPTs. One of the best chatbots will suggest nature trails to explore."
• CES Day 4: ZDNET's top 10 CES stories you don't want to miss - "CES is coming to a close, so we've rounded up any product updates or announcements you may have missed this week."
• The Best of CES 2024: What We're Looking Forward to Most - "Make no mistake - most of the stuff at CES is overhyped nonsense that most people don’t need. But we did notice some genuinely exciting things this year, including the one item almost all of us were talking about: a TV that becomes completely see-through. Here’s more about that, and a baker’s dozen other things that we’re looking forward to in 2024."
• 7 best smart home gadgets of CES 2024 - "Customize your home and make everyday tasks easier."
• How Covid-19's symptoms have changed with each new variant - "With a new variant of the Sars-CoV-2 virus causing a spike in cases, it is demonstrating just how much the disease has changed since the pandemic began."
• Raccoons, foxes, meerkats: South Korea clamps down on controversial animal cafes - "In this cafe, in Seoul’s trendy university district Hongdae, there are more than 40 species - including porcupines, snakes, foxes and ferrets - according to a sign on the door advertising it as a unique date spot."
• Julia Roberts reveals the unusual hack behind her ageless beauty - "Smiles, purpose and ‘pickling:’ Julia Roberts talks timeless beauty in British Vogue. 'Pickling. I put my head in the jar every other Saturday for 18 hours. It does wonders,' she joked. 'The smell is awful.'"
• Bottled Water Is Full of Plastic Particles. Can They Harm Your Health? - "Here’s what scientists know so far about the health effects of nanoplastics, and what you can do to reduce your exposure."
• Blocked Toilets Close Eton, Boarding School for Britain’s Elite Sons - "Flooding and a sewer backup have delayed the start of the new term. Classes at the school, which has educated princes and prime ministers, will move online."
• Biggest Company in the World, List of Top-10 - "Apple Inc, with the market capitalization value of $2.974 trillion holds the title of the biggest company in the world. Know about the top-10 largest companies in the world."
• Krautrock: The 1970s bands which helped post-war Germany overcome its dark history - "Fifty years ago, German rock groups including Neu!, Can and Kraftwerk created an eclectic sound that had never been heard before. It remains as exhilarating as ever."
• 10 Ways to Support Your Mental Health in 2024 - "These simple and proven strategies will help you manage stress and find meaning in the new year."
• How to Stay Energized All Year Long - "1. Reframe bedtime as the beginning of the next day. - 2. Try monotasking and time-blocking. - 3. Set digital boundaries."
• How to run iPhone apps on your Mac - "Get your phone apps up on your desktop. There are a few caveats to bear in mind: The developer of the iPhone app must have added Mac compatibility, and you must be running a Mac with an Apple chipset inside (so not one of the older Intel-powered ones). WIth those footnotes out of the way, you can get started with running apps on both platforms."
• How to Turn Off Siri on All Your Apple Devices - "If you're sick of Apple's voice assistant, you can quickly disable Siri on your iPhone or iPad. Just go to Settings > Siri & Search and turn off the following features: Listen for 'Hey Siri' Press Side Button for Siri."
• The incredibly Danish design of Denmark’s new national trains - "From materials inspired by the landscape to ‘hygge’ coziness, the country’s new high-speed trains embody Denmark."
• CES 2024 Day 3: The 6 announcements you may have missed - "Day 3 of CES saw impressive announcements and product reveals from companies like Asus, Sony, Amazon, and more. Here's what you don't want to miss."
• The best smart home tech at CES 2024 - "CES always delivers hundreds, if not thousands, of announcements and product launches from different companies but we cut through the noise to highlight the best in smart home technology at CES 2024."
• Samsung's The Premiere Projectors Make Your Room a Touchscreen - "Samsung's ultra short-throw projectors boast 4K and 8K images and Dolby Atmos sound onboard. Samsung has unveiled a suite of ultra short-throw projectors under its The Premiere brand at CES 2024, which include 4K and 8K resolutions plus the ability to turn projections into touch surfaces."
• Victrola's new Stream Sapphire turntable can stream to anything - "At CES 2024, Victrola announced its latest Works with Sonos turntable can transmit audio to Sonos and a whole lot more."
• World’s most powerful passport list gets big shakeup - "The world’s most powerful passports for 2024."
• The new architecture set to shape the world in 2024 - "From garden towers to the world’s longest cantilever, these new buildings will shape 2024."
• The best space heater, tried & tested - "Space heaters save you money - this is the best one out there."
• All of Wirecutter's advice & product recommendations in one place - "All Reviews." Wirecutter is the product recommendation service from The New York Times. Our journalists combine independent research with (occasionally) over-the-top testing so you can make quick and confident buying decisions. Whether it’s finding great products or discovering helpful advice, we’ll help you get it right (the first time).
• Jeff Bezos Made Over $7.9 Million An Hour Every Hour In 2023 - "In Under 13 Minutes, He Brought In The Equivalent Of What The Typical Person Earns In A Lifetime. Amazon.com Inc. Founder Jeff Bezos, a key figure in modern business, saw a massive increase in his net worth from $107 billion in early 2023 to $177 billion a year later, marking a $70 billion gain, according to Fortune. This equates to an increase of $191,780,822 per day or about $7,990,868 per hour."
• An iPhone fell from an Alaska Airlines flight & still works. Scientists explain how - "Even as serious questions emerged about why a door plug flew off one of Alaska Airlines' new Boeing jets last week and forced an emergency landing, one question was on the mind of many cellphone users: How in the world did an iPhone reportedly fall 16,000 feet from the aircraft and survive intact?"
• Introducing the IFTTT Assistant GPT - ChatGPT tool - "Today we’re launching the IFTTT Assistant GPT - a new AI Agent that's here to work as your personal assistant. With the IFTTT Assistant GPT, ChatGPT Plus users can access over 900 digital tools inside the ChatGPT interface. All you need to do is connect them with IFTTT and you can trigger actions to any of the services you have authorized in IFTTT. This means you can create Google Calendar meetings, send slack messages, write and publish blogs, all within the ChatGPT interface."
• iOS 17 Assistive Access completely changes the look of your iPhone - here's how to do it - "A simpler interface for users who struggle with or dislike regular iOS."
• Major Study Identifies 15 Factors Linked to Early Dementia Risk - "While dementia is much more common in older adults, hundreds of thousands of people are diagnosed with young-onset dementia (YOD) each year - and an extensive new study sheds some considerable new light on why."
• Then & Now: Revisiting the Sopranos' New Jersey 25 Years Later - "On the anniversary of the show's premiere, its creator and location manager reflect on some of its iconic settings and why they were chosen."
• ‘Satoshi Woke Up’ - Legend Of Bitcoin's Mystery Creator Satoshi Nakamoto Suddenly Deepens - "Bitcoin's mysterious creator Satoshi Nakamoto has received almost 26 bitcoin worth just over $1 million—more than 10 years after they disappeared."
• CES 2024 Day 2: The 8 announcements that intrigued us most - "Day 2 of CES has come and gone, and these were some of the best product reveals you may have missed - including from Google, Lenovo, and Amazon."
• Elon Musk's drug use worries Tesla, SpaceX leaders - "Musk has used LSD, cocaine, ecstasy and psychedelic mushrooms, often at private parties, the Journal said, citing unnamed witnesses and others with knowledge of the matter. People close to the Tesla Inc. and SpaceX chief executive officer told the newspaper his drug use is ongoing, and that in particular he’s consuming ketamine."
• The Qinghai-Tibet railway: The world's highest train line - "Dubbed a 'miracle' of engineering, the so-called Sky Train climbs to an elevation of 5,702m at the 'roof of the world'."
• The human touch AI virtual assistants can't replace - "Assistants are among the first jobs vulnerable to artificial intelligence. Yet current administrative professionals say there are intangibles technology just can't replicate yet."
• 60+ Generative AI Terms You Must Know By Heart - "Explore the vast artificial intelligence and machine learning field with this alphabetized guide below. From Agents and AGI to Zero-shot Learning and everything in between, explore the intricate language of AI with concise explanations and vivid examples. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or a curious novice, these Generative AI terms aim to be your go-to reference, unraveling the intricacies of the AI realm."
• ramblefix - "Speak your mind, AI will rewrite it."
• Gambling executive's $281 million salary deemed not ‘sensible or proportionate’ - "Denise Coates, the joint-chief executive and majority shareholder of Bet365, also earned at least 50% of the company's $127 million in dividends on top of her $281 million salary, company accounts published on Sunday show."
• New MacBook Air Models Launching This March: 5 Features to Expect - "The existing 15-inch MacBook Air arrived in June 2023, which is not that long ago in terms of Mac update cycles. However, Apple released the current 13-inch MacBook Air back in June 2022. It is now the oldest Mac in Apple's current crop, having not been updated in over 550 days. But rumors suggest that is unlikely to be the case for much longer."
• Portugal is the best European country for retirement based on cost of living, healthcare & more - "It's one of the most affordable European countries because of its low cost of living. On average, the cost of living, excluding rent, is almost 29% lower than in the U.S., according to SmartAsset. "
• World's fastest road car with a top speed of 300mph for sale - "The black and orange 2022 Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+ Coupe is one of just 30 examples made."
• CES 2024 Day 1: The 10 product reveals that impressed us most - "Day 1 of CES saw some major announcements from major companies like Samsung, LG, HP, and more. Here's our roundup of what you shouldn't miss."
• This is the coolest new iPhone accessory at CES 2024 - "Belkin just revealed the first DockKit-compatible iPhone stand. The Belkin Auto Tracking Stand Pro is perhaps the most practical device I've seen at CES 2024, even if it sounds rather pricey at $180. Essentially, it's a battery-powered iPhone mount that unlocks a lesser-known iOS 17 feature, and it's super convenient for recording content."
• Apple wants to turn your iPhone into a pet-tracking camera - "Apple has a new development framework that can be used to turn your iPhone into an autonomous pet-tracking camera. New tools allow developers to create apps that control motorized phone mounts based on your pet’s movements."
• 2024 Travel Destinations: 52 Places to Go This Year - "No matter why you travel, our list offers inspiration." The New York Times.
• What Happens to My Body During Dry January? - "The physical benefits are likely numerous. But there may be psychological ones, too."
• How to Start Working Out Again - "We asked experts for advice on creating an exercise plan you can actually stick with - and enjoy. No matter what kind of exercise routine you get into, you'll need to work on cardiovascular endurance. Most people can start with low-impact activities like walking or even just taking the stairs at the office. To start: Strive to extend how long you can do light cardio by a few minutes every couple of weeks."
• 10 Nutrition Tips for a Healthy New Year - "We’ve learned plenty about eating well. Here’s the advice we’ll carry with us into 2024: 1. The Mediterranean diet really is that good for you. ... 2. It's OK to drink coffee on an empty stomach. ... 3. Start your day with a healthy breakfast. ... 4. Take good care of your gut. ... 5. You probably don't need protein bars. ... 6. Go easy on the dark chocolate. 7. Blending fruits and veggies won’t destroy their nutrients. 8. Cottage cheese is back. 9. Tofu really is good for you, too. 10. It’s challenging to separate nutrition myths from facts."
• Just How Healthy Is Salmon? - "Experts explain why it’s such a nutritional powerhouse and if all varieties are created equal. Salmon packs more DHA and EPA omega-3s than almost any other food, apart from other fatty fish such as herring and sardines. Studies have consistently linked the consumption of omega-3 fatty acids from seafood to lower rates of stroke and heart disease."
• The 9 Best Lego Sets for Adults, According to Our Staff - "When it comes to Lego sets marketed to adults, one person’s dream build can be another person’s meh experience, promptly followed by buyer’s remorse. But due to Lego’s breadth of themes, a ranking of best sets can really exist only within one’s personal collection." NYT Wirecutter.
• Perplexity - Where knowledge begins - "The answers you need - right at your finger tips. Cut through the all the noise and get straight to credible, up-to-date answers. This free app syncs across devices and leverages the power of AI like OpenAI's GPT-4 and Anthropic's Claude 2. Your smarter way to know and understand."
• What’s in My Bag, 2023 - The Verge.
• Golden Globes 2024: the full list of winners - "All the winners from the 81st annual ceremony, hosted by the Hollywood Foreign Press Association in Los Angeles."
• The best red carpet looks from the 2024 Golden Globes - "The ceremony traditionally serves as a bellwether for the Oscars, with critics searching for clues as to which movies will clean up during awards season. But this year, fashion-watchers were also on the lookout for trends that may come to define 2024."
• The Secret Weapon of Celebrity Stylists? Comfortable Shoes - "What do Queen Camilla, Julia Roberts and Gayle King have in common? Sole Bliss. The brand has become a go to for women who don’t want to suffer foot pain."
• How your job & workplace affect your health - "Work Is the New Doctor’s Office." If you’re trying to improve your health, the first stop is likely to be your doctor’s office. But your own office may have nearly as much influence on well-being, according to a growing body of research that suggests your job can affect everything from mental health to risk of cardiovascular disease and how long you live.
• 100-year-old ship is re-creating Charles Darwin’s epic voyage - "‘It’s still within our power to change the world’: Across-the-globe voyage is following in Charles Darwin’s footsteps."
• Libraries for the future: Europe's new wave of ‘meeting places for the mind’ - "From Ghent's De Krook to Helsinki's Oodi, recent civic constructions have shared a vision of the library as a living room for the modern city."
• Keep Forgetting Things? Neuroscience Says This Daily Habit Improves Memory. There's Just 1 Catch - "Quelle dommage, amirite?! But, what if I told you that a study in the journal Neurology of Aging suggests there's something people can do that makes it less likely any of these kinds of things will ever happen. Perhaps you've guessed it, based on my slightly contorted examples above: Learn another language. The only catch is that the focus really was on being bilingual or multilingual during youth and middle age; learning a second language when the subjects were already 65 years old or older showed no effect."
• Google introduces 'Bard Advanced': Next-level AI chatbot powered by Gemini Ultra - "Presently, developers enjoy complimentary access to Gemini Pro and Gemini Pro Vision through Google AI Studio, accommodating up to 60 requests per minute, thereby catering to diverse app development requirements."
• The Secret Sorrow of Hotel Rooms - "My exact words to him on our first date were: 'I'm not looking to integrate anyone into my life. I'm looking to escape my life.'. After losing my husband, I just wanted to feel alive. Then I wanted more."
• Paul Giamatti Has Done the Reading - "For his role in 'The Holdovers', set at a prep school not unlike the one he attended, the hyper-literate actor mined his own dormant memories. Paul Giamatti would just like to put it out there that maybe he doesn't always have to play such a motormouth."
• The places you can (& can’t) visit in 2024 - "You can eliminate some spots from your 2024 travel itinerary by checking out our list of places that will be closed permanently or temporarily in the year to come. Major museums such as the Smithsonian Castle and the Pergamon will be going through upgrades and renovations, but it’s not all bad news: Notre Dame is scheduled to reopen in Paris by the end of the year."
• Change the lights! Start napping! 27 ways to boost your mood for the New Year - "January isn’t easy! Energy levels are rock bottom - but fear not. Here’s how to give yourself a factory reset to boost your lust for life."
• From Barbra Streisand to Barbie: seven things you need to know about the new-look Golden Globes - "After a PR makeover, the scandal-hit awards ceremony returns on Sunday night with diverse voters, fresh owners, new categories and highbrow leanings. Can it pull it off?"
• From a Total Solar Eclipse to 11 meteor showers - "The stunning astronomical events set to grace our skies in 2024 - and how to see them. There's no shortage of stunning spectacles for skygazers to enjoy in 2024."
• 15 years after the Miracle on the Hudson, some struggle with PTSD while others learned to fly - "A miracle landing that left all 155 people onboard alive and gave many a new lease on life. The maneuver was dubbed by aviation experts as the most successful ditching of an aircraft of all time, raising Capt. C.B. 'Sully' Sullenberger to hero status and later movie fame in the film 'Sully.'"
• Crypto's 2023 was marred by fraud & scandal. It may have been its best year ever - "Crypto’s 14th year in existence was one marred by scandal, bankruptcy, fraud and regulatory squabbling. It still may have been the industry’s best year ever."
• What's the best time of the day to exercise? - "There is growing evidence that the time of day we exercise makes a difference to our performance and health, but can we train our bodies to peak at different times of the day?"
• Forget running - this cardio workout takes only 5 moves & 20 minutes to train your entire body - "Don't like running? Try this short cardio workout instead. This workout consists of five exercises that all have a fun little twist but are based on traditional exercises like squats and lunges. Each exercise is performed for 30 seconds with a 30 second rest in between."
• ‘I’m never bored’: Willem Dafoe on art, yoga & alpacas - "Glynis Johns, best known for her role in Mary Poppins, has died aged 100."
• Here's What 'Reserve' on a Wine Label Really Means - "Does it have anything to do with quality? In all cases, reserve or riserva wines will age longer than non-reserve wines. Here’s what you need to know about the countries where this label actually means something."
• iOS 17.2: How to Turn Off Inline Predictive Text on Your iPhone - "If you find inline predictive text annoying, here's how to disable it: 1. Open Settings. 2. Tap General. 3. Tap Keyboard. 4. Tap the switch next to Predictive Text."
• The most exciting new trains coming in 2024 - "Around the world, travelers are flocking back to trains, and demand is increasing across the board for high-speed trains, luxury 'land cruises' and long-distance day and night trains. In many countries, rail journeys are now exceeding 2019 levels - a much faster revival than experts predicted."
• Palace of Aigai: Greece reopens huge Alexander the Great monument - "The site of one of the most important monuments in classical antiquity - the palace where Alexander the Great was crowned king - has reopened after a 16-year restoration."
• David Soul: Starsky & Hutch actor dies aged 80 - "Actor David Soul, best known for his role in the television series Starsky & Hutch, has died at the age of 80."
• Glynis Johns - a life in pictures - "Glynis Johns, best known for her role in Mary Poppins, has died aged 100."
• 25 films to watch in 2024 - "With follow-ups to Gladiator, Alien, Inside Out, Mad Max and Beetlejuice, there are sequels galore in 2024."
• Third batch of Jeffrey Epstein documents unsealed - "Latest documents bring renewed attention to Prince Andrew and claims the royal ‘spent weeks’ at Epstein’s Palm Beach home."
• King Charles 'is preparing to stop paying for Prince Andrew's home security at Windsor Royal Lodge' - "Unsealed documents say the Duke of York enjoyed daily massages at Jeffrey Epstein's Palm Beach lair. Pressure is mounting on the Duke of York as the unsealing of hundreds of pages of court documents connected to the Jeffrey Epstein scandal continues apace."
• Listen to Oprah Winfrey & Gayle King Discuss Their Friendship - "Best friends, Winfrey and King talk about their enduring, enlivening relationship." The New York Times.
• 5 Innovative Time-Management Techniques For The New Year - "1. The "Time-Blocking Tetris" Method. ... 2. Map Your Micro-Milestones. ... 3. The 'Pomodoro Flip' Technique. ... 4. The 80/20 Rule Reimagined. ... 5. Gamified Goal Setting."
• Apple Music: Complete Guide - "Apple Music is Apple's streaming music service, comparable to similar streaming services like Spotify, Amazon Music Unlimited, Google Play Music, Tidal, and others, though it has a leg up over many of its competitors with high-quality lossless audio and Spatial Audio support."
• I walked 10,000 steps every day for a week instead of going to the gym - here are 3 things I learned - "Will walking 10k steps a day get you fit? I tried it to find out. 10,000 steps is enough to make a significant difference to your overall health if you keep it up. One 2022 study focusing on adults aged between 40 to 79 years old found that walking up to 10,000 steps per day was associated with a lower risk of mortality, cancer, and cardiovascular disease, for example."
• The strength secret: how to get seriously fit from scratch - in 12 easy, enjoyable steps - "Start with walking in January - then graduate to breathing exercises, circuits and pilates. With a new activity to try each month, you’ll soon improve your flexibility and fitness, without feeling the burn."
• 9 Apple Watch health features to try or revisit for a healthier 2024 - "Improving your health on your list for 2024? Here are 9 great Apple Watch health features to check out or revisit on Apple Watch. We’ll cover native features, third-party options, Apple Health-supported accessories, and how to view all your data on iPhone, and more."
• Forget the gym - 7 bodyweight exercises that strengthen & define your entire body - "A no-equipment workout to blast your full body."
• Step on board Veuve Clicquot's Solaire Journeys - "Introducing Veuve Clicquot's all-new Solaire Journeys: travel on board legendary Belmond trains and follow the sun through breathtaking landscapes on three continents, from East to West. Ride the Eastern & Oriental from Singapore through the jungles of Malaysia."
• This country has more of the world's 50 best restaurants than any other - "That distinction goes to Spain, where six restaurants earned honors this summer on the 2023 list. (Italy had five and France had four, as did Peru, where the capital city of Lima is home to the No. 1 spot)."
• Where Zelensky Comes From - "Zelensky was the product of an era of change. He was too young to experience the Soviet Union as the stagnant, repressive gerontocracy his parents had known. By the time he returned to Ukraine with his mother, the stage was set for the empire's collapse." TIME.
• Beautiful city plagued by overtourism where visitors outnumber residents 36 to one - "Dubrovnik, the picturesque port city in Croatia, is grappling with the title of Europe's most 'over-touristed' destination as the number of visitors far surpasses the local population."
• City with iconic bridge is one of 2024's best places to visit - "And for those who are in two minds about whether to take the tip, Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina, has now made it to fourth place on Lonely Planet's Best Places to Visit in 2024 list. The picturesque city is a glorious blend of history, culture and natural beauty."
• The Man Who Destroys $3000 Handbags on the Internet - "Under the handle Tanner Leatherstein, Volkan Yilmaz rips, burns and slices apart luxury goods to show how much he thinks they are really worth. One video opens with a large white leather handbag covered in the signature LV logo of Louis Vuitton."
• Value of $1 from 2008 to 2024 - Inflation Calculator - "$1 in 2008 is equivalent in purchasing power to about $1.47 today, an increase of $0.47 over 16 years. The dollar had an average inflation rate of 2.44% per year between 2008 and today, producing a cumulative price increase of 47.09%."
• How to Declutter Your Dating Life - "Overwhelmed by apps, profiles and not-quite-matches? Here’s how to start the new year fresh."
• 'Ghosting,' 'Orbiting,' 'Rizz': A Guide to Modern Dating Terms - "The way we talk about relationships has drastically changed in recent years. Here is a glossary of some of the most popular words and phrases you should know."
• The 7 Keys to Longevity - "Ignore the hyperbaric chambers and infrared light: These are the evidence-backed secrets to aging well: 1. Move more. The number one thing experts recommended was to keep your body active. ... 2. Eat more fruits and vegetables. ... 3. Get enough sleep. ... 4. Don't smoke, and don't drink too much either. ... 5. Manage your chronic conditions. ... 6. Prioritize your relationships. ... 7. Cultivate a positive mind-set."
• 8 Fitness Myths That Drive Experts Crazy - "Myth 1: You should stretch before you work out. - Myth 2: You need to lift heavy weights to build muscle. - Myth 3: Running destroys your knees. And more."
• A Low-Pressure Guide to Make Strength Training a Habit - "I asked exercise psychologists, scientists, trainers and muscle evangelists for their best advice on launching a lasting strength-training routine. Here’s what I learned: Start small. - Start simple. - Embrace being a novice. - Do it early in the day. - Try 'temptation bundling.' - Wear (pretty much) whatever you want."
• The 6-Day Energy Challenge - "Try these simple tips for a more invigorated 2024: Day 1: A 5-minute trick for more energy - Carve out an 'oasis moment.' - Take our energy quiz - Day 2: Move for 3 minutes to refresh your mind."
• Does yoga build muscle? - "Could your practice sculpt a leaner physique? A faster dynamic practice could help you build muscle, as classes like vinyasa, rocket, Ashtanga, or Forrest are more demanding on your body than slower-paced classes like yin. These classes move quickly, are considered harder and involve challenging inversions and balances."
• How to declutter your projects, notes & documents - "Some simple and sophisticated options so you can pick what suits your needs. These apps and tools will help you declutter your projects, notes, and documents."
• Magnus Carlsen hitting $10,000,000 in winnings - "Here is the complete list of all-time major chess event millionaires through December 31, 2023."
• What's 'In' for 2024? In-and-Out Lists, Apparently - "Common ins for 2024 include early bedtimes, staying hydrated and red-light therapy, while impulsive shopping, mindless phone scrolling and vaping are popular outs. In the final days of 2023, social media was overrun with tongue-in-cheek predictions for the year ahead from regular people moonlighting as professional prognosticators." The New York Times.
• Prominent names listed in unsealed Epstein document - "Bill Clinton, Prince Andrew and Bill Richardson come up in the unredacted records, along with a tech guru, a modeling scout and an American investor. Hundreds of pages of unsealed documents from a lawsuit connected to accused sex-trafficker Jeffrey Epstein were publicly released on Wednesday. This is the first set of documents to be unsealed under a December 18 court order, with more expected in the coming weeks. The documents in total, including material yet to be unsealed, are expected to include nearly 200 names, including some of Epstein’s accusers, prominent businesspeople, politicians and potentially more."
• Oscar Pistorius is handed security warning ahead of his release - "Paralympic gold medallist was convicted of murdering his girlfriend in 2013. There are fears the disgraced Paralympian could now become a target for underworld assassins."
• The world's most punctual airlines for 2023 - "Aviation analytics company Cirium has crunched the numbers to reveal which airlines and airports around the world have the best on-time ratings. No matter where in the world you live - or are planning to go - these stats give some hope that your next trip can be smooth sailing."
• Top 10 European Cities to Move to in 2024 for a Satisfactory Life - "About 90 per cent of EU residents expressed satisfaction with their life in their city, according to the EU 2023 Report on Quality of Life in European Cities."
• 2024's best diet is a proven winner for overall health - "Best diet for 2024 goes to a science-backed style of eating. For the seventh year in a row, the Mediterranean style of eating earned the title of best overall diet, according to 2024 ratings that U.S. News & World Report announced Wednesday."
• These 8 cars arriving in 2024 are worth a closer look - "EV, hybrid and gas-powered: Some interesting cars coming in 2024. 2024 will see the introduction of some new, genuinely affordable electric vehicles as well as a couple of interesting options for the ultra-wealthy. We’ll also see the return of some classic model names."
• Freeform Is the Best iOS App You're Not Using - "Don't sleep on this digital whiteboard that you can use for everything from research projects to travel planning. It's described by Apple as a way to 'bring your ideas to life' - it's essentially a digital whiteboard you can use for everything from research projects to travel planning."
• 5 ways ChatGPT can save you time in the new year - "1. Draft emails - 2. Prepare for a big task - 3. Compose lists - 4. Help with social media strategy - 5. Make a custom workout plan for you."
• How to easily find & check your elevation on Google Maps - "You can quickly see how high you are from anywhere - just open Google Maps to check out your elevation. Here's how, step by step: 1. Open the Google Maps app on Android or iOS. 2. As before, search for the location that you want to check out in the search bar or just scroll to it using maps. 3. Tap on the Layers icon on the right, under the search bar. 4. Now, choose Terrain as your Map type."
• 100 tiny changes to transform your life: from the one-minute rule to pyjama yoga - "Want more health and happiness in the year ahead - without having to work too hard? Here are tried and tested tweaks that can lead to big improvements."
• 10 useful time management tips, according to productivity experts - "We all have the same 24 hours in a day, but have you ever wondered why some people don’t seem to have a problem getting it all done while others struggle to stay on top of even the basics? The secret is a skill called time management, and like any other skill from cooking to karate, it can be learned by following a few simple tips."
• Why reclining seats are vanishing from airplanes - "Losing the recline can save airlines money. Airlines have found that by removing the 'kinematics' (the part that moves) they can save up to a kilogram of weight per seat. This in turn saves the airline on vital fuel costs."
• How the super-rich store their supercars - "Underfloor heating, custom lighting, $385,000 TVs: How the super-rich store their supercars."
• How to stop your films & music from disappearing - "Oppenheimer and the resurgence of Blu-ray and DVDs: How to stop your films and music from disappearing. In an era where many films and albums are stored in the cloud, 'streaming anxiety' is making people buy more DVDs and records - as younger digital generations fear having their life histories erased."
• Why it's more important to be kind than attractive - "The qualities that are more attractive than our looks. While looks might matter for first impressions, there are other qualities that win people's hearts."
• How Australia’s Mary Donaldson went from commoner to Danish Queen - "An unconventional journey from Australia’s middle class to European royalty began in an unremarkable bar in Sydney in 2000."
• What's With All the Different Salts? Here's How to Use Them - "Table salt, kosher salt, finishing salt: The choice can be confusing, but we offer a little explanation and advice."
• Best Air Fryer for 2024 - "Air fryers cook fast, which means less of a chance you'll make your kitchen hot. These are the best models we've tested."
• Best of everyday carry - Yanko Design awards 2023 - "New Year New Gear, they say... but before we explore what 2024 has in store for us, here’s a look at our top EDC gear from the year gone by."
• Is Extra iCloud Storage Worth Paying For? - "Cloud-based backups and media storage comes at a cost you should probably swallow. If you're heavily entrenched in the Apple ecosystem, iCloud is almost certainly worth it. Keep backups, sync media, free up your local storage, and get the most out of apps like Notes and more. But if you take a mixed approach to technology, you might find iCloud lets you down when it comes to non-Apple devices."
• Where to go in 2024: The best places to visit - "Maybe it’s time to look at places that are still largely undiscovered, or alluring in the offseason, or frequently overlooked for their larger first cities or neighbors. Maybe it’s time to head to places that are making it easier for tourists to visit and those that pay close attention to encouraging tourism that’s sustainable. With those things in mind, CNN Travel chose 24 places to consider as you make your 2024 plans."
• Passengers hoped this ‘time traveling’ flight would give them two New Year’s Eves - but they arrived in the wrong year - "Flight UA200 was originally scheduled to depart Guam at 7:35 a.m. on January 1, 2024, and land in Honolulu, Hawaii at 6:50 p.m. on December 31, 2023 - traveling across time zones to take passengers back a year. But those on UA200 were in for disappointment. The flight was delayed - ultimately departing Guam at 1:49 p.m. on January 1, and arriving in Honolulu at 12:34 a.m. on January 1, missing the countdown."
• Queen Margrethe II: Danish monarch's 52-year reign in pictures - "The 83-year-old is the longest-serving living monarch in Europe, having taken the throne after the death of her father King Frederik IX in 1972. Here's a look at her half-century reign in pictures."
• Why this morning-after portrait of Faye Dunaway became an iconic Hollywood moment - "In just 10 minutes, photographer Terry O’Neill snapped one of the most recognizable celebrity portraits of the 20th century - Faye Dunaway, poolside at the Beverly Hills Hotel, on the morning after her 1977 Oscars win."
• With Tom Wilkinson, Would You Get a Time Bomb or a Warm Hug? - "In his performances in 'Michael Clayton' and other films, he brought an element of danger and uncertainty that kept us on edge."
• How to improve your life in 2024 according to science - "The start of a new year is a time for making changes and resolutions to improve your health and wellbeing. We look at some of the best tips that science has to offer."
• How three widows came to rule Champagne - "The little-known history of Champagne. While women were barred from owning businesses in 19th Century France, three widows, who were exempt from the rule, created some of Champagne's most lauded empires."
• The problem of thinking in straight lines - "As we grow up we are trained to think about things in a linear way. But it can leave us ill-equipped in our complex, fast moving modern world, harm our finances and even cause problems with artificial intelligence."
• The 5 Best Apps of the Year, According to Apple - "Apple has selected the best apps of the year for each of its five big devices: iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch and Apple TV."
• WatchCharts Overall Market Index - "The WatchCharts Overall Market Index is an indicator of secondary watch market price trends. It is composed of 60 watches taken from the top 10 luxury watch brands, sorted and weighted by transaction value. The index shows the market price movement of this set of watches (in USD) over time, and is rebalanced once per year on January 1st."
• How to record a phone call on your iPhone - "There might come a time when you need to record a phone call on your iPhone. Here's the simplest way how."
• How to Back Up Your Emails in Gmail, Outlook & iCloud - "Yes, you should back up your most important emails. Here’s how to do it, whether you use Google, Microsoft, or Apple."
• 11 tips for setting up your new Apple Watch - "Here we take a look at 11 simple tips that, as well as making your device look better, will also make it easier to navigate and ensure that it looks out for your health. Most of these tips will work via the Watch itself whereas some will need you to grab your iPhone."
• From Auckland to New York, fireworks light up the skies as countries usher in 2024 - "The beginning of 2024 was marked with a bang, with firework displays lighting up the night skies in cities around the world as the clock struck midnight."
• Queen Margrethe II: Danish monarch announces abdication live on TV - "She will formally step down on 14 January, which will be 52 years to the day since she became queen. 'I will leave the throne to my son, Crown Prince Frederik,' she announced. The 83-year-old is the world's only reigning queen and the longest serving current monarch in Europe, taking the throne after the death of her father King Frederik IX in 1972."
• 10 Simple Habits That Lead to Better Memory, According to Neuroscience - "Rule No. 1: 'If you rest, you rust.'"
• Google has hidden a free game inside your iPhone - "Google has tucked an addictive game into a quiet corner of your iPhone. It's purposefully hidden - and the only way to unlock it is by using a special gesture. Unlock addictive freebie with ‘secret swipe’."
• The Potential Dangers of Holding in a Sneeze - "There are some risks of holding in a sneeze, such as a ruptured eardrum, rupture of superficial blood vessels to the eye or nose, throat or neck pain, and less commonly, rupture of a brain aneurysm or rib fractures. Still, experts say those complications are very rare."
• We asked ChatGPT what will be the Bitcoin price in 2024 - "This price range suggests a potential upside of 98%-133% from BTC's current price. ChatGPT's Bitcoin price prediction for 2024. Source: ChatGPT."
• iPhone 15 charging slowly? How to fast charge iPhone with USB-C - "USB-C means that you can now fast charge all of your Apple devices with the same cable and 60-watt (or higher) MacBook power adapter."