The Int'l Man's Hot Links Archive 2024: July 1 - Dec 31

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 (2): July 1 - December 31

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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: 1700+ 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."
• Middle East crisis live - "Live coverage of all the latest developments in the Middle East."
• 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."
• Covid & mpox - "3800+ Up-To-Date Advice, Facts, News & Recources."

December 20, 2024

• THIS WEEK'S ACRONYM - SPF.
• THIS WEEK'S BUZZWORD - LIT.
• The Year in Micro News - "Blink and you might have missed these viral but fleeting moments."
• Global Wealth Report 2024 - "Now in its 15th edition, the Global Wealth Report 2024 offers you leading insights into household wealth and prosperity across the world. Here we highlight leading trends shaping wealth in the US."
• Obscene Prices, Declining Quality: Luxury Is in a Death Spiral - "Luxury brands have triggered their own death spiral by selling overpriced, overexposed and lower-quality products."
• 20 New Things Your iPhone Can Do in iOS 18.2 - "While not all advertised Apple Intelligence features are available yet, iOS 18.2 introduces several capabilities that aim to make your iPhone smarter and more intuitive. Below, we've listed 20 new things your iPhone can do after you've updated your iPhone via Settings → General → Software Update."
• AirTag just got a new feature in iOS 18.2, here’s how to use it - "How to use the new iOS 18.2 AirTag feature: 1. Open the Find My app on iPhone, iPad, or Mac. 2. Go to the Items tab. 3. Select the AirTag or other lost item. 4. Navigate down until you see 'Share Item Location'. 5. Follow the pop-up screens to activate sharing."
• The 10 Most Perfect Movies of All Time - "Plenty of other five-star masterpieces we can’t find a single flaw with have been left off, but to make up for it we’ve included an extensive list of honorable mentions that could just as easily have found their way on here. Read on and let us know what we’ve missed in the comments."
• 2024 Audioholics Product of the Year Award Winners! - "Best Reviewed Receivers, Loudspeakers, & Subwoofers for 2024!"
• How to Get a Party Buzz Even When You’re Not Drinking - "These tips for sober socializing may not have you dancing on tables, but they'll help you have plenty of fun."
• How to Actually Sleep on an Airplane - "These tested strategies can help you get some degree of rest, even in an unforgiving upright seat."
• A 20-Minute Exercise Band Workout to Build Strength - "If you are short on time and space, here is a cheap, effective way to get stronger."
• The resurgence of silver & sterling silver jewelry. The Jewelry of the Moment Is Bigger & Bolder & Silver! - "Record-high gold prices and a fatigue with so-called quiet luxury set the stage for a resurgence of statement silver pieces. Silver and sterling silver jewelry this year took numerous forms and shapes."
• Why “Bookshelf Wealth” Is 2024’s First Major Design Trend - "Maximalists rejoice because bookshelf wealth is all about mixing colors, textures, and patterns in addition to showcasing books and collectables."

December 19, 2024

• GisÈle Pelicot’s ex-husband Dominique & 50 others found guilty in mass rape trial - "All 51 defendants have been found guilty of the charges against them, but many have been handed sentences shorter than those asked for by prosecutors."
• The tourist attractions you can’t visit in 2025 - "Some attractions and institutions disappeared in 2024, some a result of natural disasters, others because of financial challenges or simply a change personal preference. Here are two handfuls of places you can’t visit in 2025 - or, probably, ever again."
• The 26 Best Dishes We Ate Across the U.S. in 2024 - "Whether soups or sweets, a single tasting-menu course or a perfect ham sandwich, these are the bites from 2024 that will linger in our minds well into the new year."
• The 50 best TV shows of 2024: No 4 - Slow Horses - "Gary Oldman gives the performance of his career in this excellent spy drama - which has finally become one of the most talked-about shows on TV."
• Netflix's The Perfect Couple & the reason TV was so poor in 2024 - but we watched anyway - "This year was defined by a host of average TV shows that were glossy and watchable enough but insubstantial and forgettable - as epitomised by the Nicole Kidman thriller. Here's why."
• Apple urged to axe AI feature after false headline - "A major journalism body has urged Apple to scrap its new generative AI feature after it created a misleading headline about a high-profile killing in the United States. The AI-powered summary falsely made it appear that BBC News had published an article claiming Mangione, the man accused of the murder of healthcare insurance CEO Brian Thompson in New York, had shot himself. He has not."
• The origins of the ugly Christmas sweater - "A cozy history of the ugly Christmas sweater."
• MAJOR SMART SPEAKER BRANDS RANKED WORST TO BEST (ACCORDING TO CONSUMER REPORTS) - "Smart speakers often act as the centerpiece of a smart home setup since you can use voice commands to control almost any piece of smart home tech. They also have a variety of other uses, such as playing music, answering questions, and they even replace old-school alarm clocks."
• 7 Settings to Change on Your iPhone Immediately After You Unbox It - "New iPhone? Here are the tweaks you should make right away to ensure you get the most out of it."
• In-Depth: The History of the Rolex Explorer II, The Ultimate Adventure Watch by The Crown - "An update to the legendary 1950s Explorer serves a different purpose, alongside the original exploration watch. The Rolex Explorer II launched in 1971 and didn't replace the original, but complemented it as a more feature-packed tool watch for spelunking."

December 18, 2024

• The world’s busiest flight routes for 2024 revealed - "Flying from the skyscrapers of Hong Kong to Taipei was the busiest airline route in the world this year with nearly 7 million seats on sale in 2024. Second on the 24 list was Cairo-Jeddah, with nearly 5.5 million seats sold. The Middle East, Europe and even the US got a look in too, with Dubai-Riyadh at number six, and New York JFK-London Heathrow rounding out the top 10."
• The Year in Pictures 2024: Far from ordinary - "This year was made up of such extraordinary moments. And Times photographers captured them in extraordinary images. The Year in Pictures brings you the most powerful, evocative and history-making of those images." The New York Times.
• The very best pictures of 2024 & the stories behind them - "117 defining photos of the year." The London Times.
• Prince Harry & Meghan share rare photo of their children on Christmas card - "This year marks the first time since 2021 that Harry and Meghan have released a Christmas card featuring their children, whose privacy they fiercely guard."
• Glass of wine a night can halve risk of heart attack & stroke - "Moderate wine consumption can reduce the risk of heart disease, study finds, but only if consumed during meals and as part of a healthy diet."
• Intermittent fasting ‘can make your hair shorter & thinner’ - "Intermittent fasting diets not only help people shed weight - they may also cause you to have thinner hair, a study suggests. Fasting diets may stunt the regeneration of the stem cells that produce hair, a study finds, as resources are conserved for critical organs such as the brain."
• Why Ultraprocessed Foods Aren’t Always Bad - "The way we eat desperately needs to change. Experts estimate diet is a bigger contributor globally to early death than smoking. In America, nearly half the adult population has Type 2 diabetes or pre-diabetes."
• When Your $3 Million Cello Gets Bumped From Your Flight - "The cellist Sheku Kanneh-Mason had to cancel a concert in Toronto last week after an airline refused to let him board with his instrument, even though he had bought a ticket for it."
• Tourists Need To Pay Very Close Attention To Spain's Latest Travel Law - "When renting a vehicle or checking into a hotel, Airbnb, campsite, or other accommodation. Travelers aged 14 and over must now provide the following: full name, gender, nationality, passport number, date of birth, home address, landline and mobile phone number, and email address."
• 10 habits of naturally classy people that always leave a lasting impression - "The secret isn’t necessarily in the money they have or the clothes they wear. It’s in their habits - the way they carry themselves, how they treat others, and even their daily routines."
• 3 philosophy classics that are better than self-help books - "Self-help often distills philosophical ideas for the modern ear. Sometimes, its better to go back to the source."
• The 20 best TV shows of 2024 - "From an electrifying action thriller with Keira Knightley to Ted Danson's latest sitcom and a brutal Japanese period epic, we pick the year's greatest programmes to stream right now."
• The Source of Red Wine's Headaches Could Be a Chemical Few Suspected - "Medical accounts of red wine headaches go back to Roman times, but the experience is likely as old as winemaking - something like 10,000 years. Our enzyme tests suggest that quercetin glucuronide disrupts your body's metabolism of alcohol. This disruption means extra acetaldehyde circulates, causing inflammation and headaches. This discovery points to what's known as a secondary, or synergistic, effect."

December 17, 2024

• The mountains where you can ski right across Europe’s international borders - "Some of Europe's best winter sports terrains cross international borders, offering the chance to ski or snowboard into multiple countries."
• The innovative, green future of skiing - "As ski resorts around the world grapple with the effects of climate change, dry slope skiing may be the green answer to the sport's future."
• 'Being a starlet was difficult': How Shirley Temple saved a Hollywood studio from bankruptcy - "In December 1933, five-year-old Shirley Temple signed with a nearly-bankrupt Fox Studios. In History looks back at how she revived the studio's fortunes - and became a superstar."
• 'Like a warm hug from home': The addictive love cake only baked at Christmas - "Fruity, nutty and slightly tangy, this deliciously rich, spiced cake symbolises love and affection - and making it is a true labour of love."
• Top 10 Best-Selling Books of All Time - "From religious texts like the Bible and the Quran to timeless literary classics such as Don Quixote and Harry Potter, these works have shaped cultures, influenced societies, and inspired countless individuals. In this article, we explore some of the most-sold books in history, delving into their origins, themes, and the cultural significance that has led them to become bestsellers across the globe."
• 36 Things That Stuck With Us in 2024 - "The movie scenes, TV episodes, song lyrics and other moments that reporters, critics, editors and visual journalists in Culture couldn’t stop thinking about this year."
• The Breakout Stars of 2024 - "Across the arts world, these 10 performers broke away from the pack this year by channeling guts and grit into their work."
• The History of the Rolex Explorer, The All-Rounder Watch Personified - "One of the simplest and most iconic sports watches to wear the Crown, here's the detailed history of the Rolex Explorer watch."
• 3D-printed gun blueprints found online as law change looms - "The government is expected to pass laws banning step-by-step guides for assembling the firearms."
• New Tests Reveal AI’s Capacity for Deception - "In certain contrived scenarios, today’s cutting-edge AI systems, including OpenAI’s o1 and Anthropic’s Claude 3.5 Sonnet, can engage in deceptive behavior in pursuit of their goals—providing empirical evidence to support a concern that to date has been largely theoretical."
• Is Protein Powder a Scam? - "Most people don't need to consume this supplement, experts say, but it can be useful in certain situations. On TikTok, influencers tout protein powder as key to building muscle and nourishing their bodies - all in a quick, convenient scoop added to coffee or a smoothie."
• Scientists tell Disney princesses how to live healthily ever after - "Belle and Cinderella could be at risk of developing health problems, researchers say, as they suggest mindfulness and psychotherapy in a light-hearted editorial."
• 7,000 steps to happiness? Walkers are less likely to be depressed - "Researchers say advising people to increase their daily step count could be part of a national mental health drive. Every 1,000 daily steps up to 10,000 was linked to a 9 per cent reduction in the chance of being depressed, according to the research based on data from 96,000 people."
• Why you should always take the stairs to live longer - "Exercise can add more than a decade to your life. The experts tell Peta Bee how: Marching up and down more than five flights of stairs a day was associated with improved blood sugar and cholesterol levels as well as with lowering blood pressure and other risk factors for heart disease, in a 2023 paper published in Atherosclerosis journal."

December 16, 2024

• Another New Twitter? Good Luck With That - "Users are now flocking to Bluesky. But every social media platform becomes a wasteland in the end."
• I tested Google Gemini & Apple Intelligence. Here’s which one you should use - "Choosing the 'better' option really depends on what’s most important to you. If you value privacy and a smooth experience with your Apple gear, Siri and Apple Intelligence might be right up your alley. But if you want a wide range of accessibility and loads of info at your fingertips, Google Gemini could be the way to go."
• Should you use Gemini Live? I tested it for a few weeks to find out - "Generally, it's probably wise to think of Gemini Live as your new digital best friend on your mobile device. It is ready and able to answer any question, help you with your homework, plan a trip abroad, and much more. In other words, it is designed to do a lot."
• Turn an Obsolete Phone Into a Free Security Camera With 3 Easy Steps - "If you're replacing your iPhone or Android phone, we've got the perfect idea for your old model: Turn it into a free home security camera with the right app."
• Here’s everything new in the Messages app on iOS 18.2 - "iOS 18.2 brings several new Apple Intelligence features to the Messages app, opening new possibilities for emoji, images, and text."
• I learned this milk steaming hack at barista school & my latte art instantly improved - "Here's a cost-effective hack that will help you practice the art of steaming milk without wasting tasty espresso."
• best luggage for international travel 2024 - "We asked our editors to test 15 suitcases of varying sizes on different global airlines to determine the best luggage for international travel."
• Guide to International Carry-On & Luggage Standards - "Prepare for your next adventure by getting all the info you need on international luggage standards, such as international carry on size, weight limits."
• Rick Steves refuses to get cynical about the world - "The guidebook writer and television personality reflects on his cancer diagnosis, social media’s corrosive effect on tourism and the transformative power of travel."
• Is Intermittent Fasting Good or Bad for You? - "Research shows that intermittent fasting may help with weight loss and lower blood sugar, but it depends on the person and how it's done. Experts agree that intermittent fasting can refer to a variety of approaches."

December 15, 2024

• A Danish Christmas Tradition That Comes From the Heart - "In the land of hygge, handmade paper decorations have long brought holiday cheer - and a chance to share the simple joys of crafting."
• ‘Bigger than Nuremberg’: the secret files that could jail Assad - "Thousands of pages of evidence reveal in detail the barbarity of the deposed dictator’s regime. The hunt for the perpetrators has begun."
• How the super-rich try to cheat the winter flu - "IV drips, hyperbaric chambers, alkaline water you can give to the dog - some will stop at nothing to get through Christmas intact. So does it work?"
• This is the best country in the world for rail travel - "Our writer makes tracks for Switzerland, and discover the joys of riding the lines on an immersive, visually stunning - and more importantly, smooth - holiday."
• Switzerland travel guide - "When to go, what to do and why you’ll love it."
• As Soon as You Install iOS 18.2, Change These 8 iPhone Settings - "Start off right by configuring these features on your iPhone. I've put together my list of eight features and settings you should change right now, including some of the top-tier features and a few that fly under the radar."
• If you want to keep your mind razor sharp as you get older, say goodbye to these 8 habits - "Keeping your mind sharp as you age requires more than just mental exercises - it’s about avoiding habits that can dull your cognitive abilities over time. From neglecting intellectual challenges to falling into unhealthy routines, certain behaviors can hinder your mental clarity and focus."
• A Modernist’s Dream on Copenhagen’s Harbor - "A couple hired an architect with experience designing floating homes, after a decade of downsizing on dry land."
• The 6 things we wish all watch brands told us - "Here's hoping brands will adopt Zach's thoughts as manifestos, and tell us everything we need to know when it comes to buying a new watch."
• 12 Types of Watch Indexes Every Watch Enthusiast Should Know - "In all good watch designs, types of watch indexes should work in glorious harmony with a pair of hands, letting you know the time at a quick glance. Whether you enjoy a sliver of lume or claw-like excess, a dial endowed with well-designed watch indexes can make or break a design. No matter how sculpturally they appear, they should offer the wearer balance and legibility."
• 24 rules of wearing a watch - according to our most dialled-in experts - "In the ever-mad world of wristwear, a new era of freedom (and tiny watches) is reshaping how people are wearing a watch, which is ultimately impacting the overall culture of timepieces. To bring some order to our everyday horological habits, Brynn Wallner (aka Dimepiece) peers into the zeitgeist to find a fresh collection of commandments we should all embrace – starting with a fairly taboo one."
• The 6 Best Pre-Owned Watch Marketplaces Online & How to Shop Them - "From eBay to Reddit, Chrono24 and more, here's what you need to know to shop the online world of watches."

December 14, 2024

• Elon Musk becomes the first person to reach a net worth of $400 billion - "The richest person in the world just hit an even higher milestone: Elon Musk's net worth has reached $400 billion making him the first person ever to cross that mark. Behind his nearly $20 billion jump in wealth was a deal that shot up Musk's rocket company SpaceX's valuation to roughly $350 billion, Bloomberg reported Tuesday."
• A look back at 12 royal moments from 2024 - "As the end of the year fast approaches, we thought you might enjoy a photo recap of the royal highs and lows of 2024. It was a challenging year for the royal family, with some serious health revelations from King Charles and Catherine, Princess of Wales."
• Prince Andrew invited ‘Chinese spy’ into Buckingham Palace - "Businessman also attended events at St James’s Palace and Windsor Castle - and was invited to Duke of York’s birthday party at Royal Lodge."
• Crown of Thorns returns to Notre-Dame Cathedral after fire - "An ancient relic said by some to have been placed on the head of Jesus Christ at his crucifixion has returned to Notre-Dame, five years after it was saved from a fire that devastated the cathedral in Paris. The crown was acquired by King Louis IX of France in Constantinople in 1239 for 135,000 livres - nearly half France's annual expenditure at the time."
• What lies ahead for Assad & his family? - "A 2019 investigation by the Financial Times found that Assad's extended family had purchased at least 18 luxury apartments in the Russian capital, in a bid to keep tens of millions of dollars out of Syria during the civil war. A 2022 US State Department report to Congress said the extended Assad family's net worth was between $1bn and $2bn."
• 36 hours in Venice: Things to do & see - "Key stops. The seaside gardens of Chiesa del Santissimo Redentore, a 16th-century church, are now open to the public for the first time."
• Scientists figured out the optimal cup of coffee - "You don't always need the dark roast. Researchers believe they identified the blend of factors comprising the perfect cup balancing flavor and zing - and dark roast diehards may want to finish taking a sip before finding out the results."
• Want to know what’s flying overhead? There’s an app for that - "Apps like Flightradar24, Plane Finder and FlightAware all have features that let users see, in real-time, what aircraft are flying around them, including the thousands of commercial and private flights and helicopters that may be in the skies at any given time."
• Best value ski resorts: Italy tops list as France & Austria get pricier - "Italian resorts dominate, with six in the top ten, including Bardonecchia in pole position out of the 36 resorts surveyed."

December 13, 2024

• Why Trump's inauguration invite to Xi is a big deal - "Xi’s RSVP is a snub to Trump, but the inauguration invite is still a big deal."
• 'Chinese spy' with close links to Prince Andrew banned from UK - "The businessman was invited to the Duke of York's birthday party and was authorised to act on his behalf to seek investors in China."
• The 19 Greatest Rolex Watch Models Ever, Ranked - "From the Daytona to the King Midas, GQ watch editor Cam Wolf dives deep into all the most significant lines in the Crown’s long and distinguished history."
• The Best Hotels & Resorts in the World: The Gold List 2025 - "For 31 years the editors of Condé Nast Traveler have been compiling this annual compendium of hotels and cruises we’ve discovered, or fallen in love with all over again. We highlight them not only for their beauty, comfort, or impeccable service, but also because we’ve developed deeply emotional relationships with them."
• Oldest human DNA helps pinpoint when early humans interbred with Neanderthals - "Scientists say they have recovered the oldest known Homo sapiens DNA from human remains found in Europe, and the information is helping to reveal our species’ shared history with Neanderthals."
• The longest-living vertebrate could offer clues to extending the human lifespan, scientists say - "The Greenland shark can live to be around 400 years old, 2016 research estimated. Now, scientists are studying its genome to understand how."
• Ranked: The World’s 20 Largest Economies, by GDP (PPP) - "This chart shows the value of each G20 member’s GDP in 2024, adjusted for purchasing power parity (PPP). Data is sourced from the International Monetary Fund as of October, 2024."
• Charted: Here’s Who Owns U.S. Debt - "U.S. gross debt increased from $34.4 trillion at the end of 2023 to $36.1 trillion as of December 2024, with some experts calling it unsustainable."
• The Allure of ‘Microdosing’ Ozempic - "Some people are taking tiny amounts of weight loss medications, hoping to drop pounds while avoiding side effects. Does it work?"
• Houseplants Can Make You Healthier - "You don’t need a green thumb to reap the benefits. Indoor green spaces, even small ones, have benefits for our physical and mental well-being, too. Viewing nature indoors, one review of the scientific literature suggested, can lower your heart rate and blood pressure. The presence of plants in a hospital room has been shown to reduce pain and anxiety in patients."
• I moved to one of the world’s happiest countries but Denmark’s dark, cold winters got me down - "How I learned to thrive."
• Netflix’s Black Doves - the truth about female spies - "The hit show stars Keira Knightley as an assassin and devoted mother. Television is catching up with the reality of women in espionage, says intelligence expert Gordon Corera."
• Nicola Walker: People say ‘I wish you’d done my divorce?’ - "She had millions hooked on The Split, the drama about the personal and professional crises of a divorce lawyer. Nicola Walker, 54, talks about grief, marriage - and how she became Britain’s favourite television actress."

December 12, 2024

• Donald Trump: 2024 TIME Person of the Year - "After a political rebirth that Time labeled 'unparalleled in American history,' President-elect Donald Trump has been named the 2024 Time Person of the Year. This is the second time Trump has been chosen by Time as Person of the Year after also earning the distinction in 2016 following his victory in the presidential election. His first appearance on the cover of Time was in 1989."
• Trump’s Admiration for Royals Could Make Them a Potent Diplomatic Tool - "A meeting between President-elect Donald J. Trump and Prince William showed Britain’s hope that the Windsors could help safeguard relations with Washington."
• iOS 18.2 launch LIVE: The biggest Apple Intelligence upgrade yet for iPhone, iPad & Mac is here - "ChatGPT in Siri, Genmoji, Image Playground, and more."
• How two New York tragedies exposed the failure of politics in a fraught American moment - "Two New York tragedies gripping America show how politics is failing to address some of the most fundamental economic and societal problems and reflect the nation’s mood ahead of Donald Trump’s second presidency."
• MONACO GAINS PRAISE FOR ANTI-MONEY LAUNDERING PROGRESS - "The Council of Europe has praised Monaco’s significant progress in combating money laundering and terrorist financing in a new report by Moneyval, the council’s anti-money laundering body. Published on December 10, the report commends the Principality for implementing extensive reforms, describing the results as a 'remarkable achievement.'"
• Ultraprocessed Foods Are Everywhere. Our 5-Day Challenge Will Help You Spot Them - "Try these simple steps for a healthier 2025."
• Think you know how to brush your teeth? - "Dentists would like a word."
• Sex, Death & Nicole Kidman - "Between her experience on 'Babygirl' and her mother’s death, the star has come to understand a lot about women in unfulfilled lives."
• Like Kate Moss, my younger man couldn’t keep up with me - "The model has split from Count Nikolai von Bismarck. One writer understands the age gap issue. I feel for Kate Moss - my younger man couldn’t keep up with me either. 'God, you’ve got a lot of energy,' he said, audibly in need of a breather. I sighed, but not quite in the way I’d been hoping for. Disappointed - unfortunately not for the first time - I just about managed not to roll my eyes. I was barely getting started, pal. When he called me 'insatiable', it didn’t come across entirely as a compliment."
• Scientists reveal the secret of female orgasm - "The secret of the female orgasm may have been revealed by scientists in a pioneering study. Researchers led by the University of Essex found that women climax more frequently if they have high levels of an inward-looking sense known as interoception."
• How Long Do Leftovers Last? - "Here’s how to extend the life of your Thanksgiving turkey - or any meal - without getting sick. According to federal guidelines, most refrigerated leftovers - including cooked turkey; gravy; traditional sides like stuffing, mashed potatoes and green beans; and desserts like pumpkin pie - should be consumed within three to four days."
• Mephisto, The maker of Grandpa Shoe, is suddenly cool - "With a zesty collaboration arriving this week, the French shoemaker Mephisto is suddenly something it never dreamed of being before: cool."
• A 75-hour luxury train ride through the heart of Australia’s outback - "The Ghan is one of the longest train journeys in the world, spanning 1,851 miles (2,979 kilometers) through Australia’s vast and forbidding outback. 'The Ghan Expedition' is a southbound, three-night journey that departs from Darwin with stops in Katherine, Alice Springs, and Coober Pedy before arriving in Adelaide on the fourth day - some 75 hours later."
• The Protocol School of Washington - since 1988. "Professional relationships have never been more important." Explore Live Online, In-Person or On-Demand training. With a vibrant and interconnected global marketplace, protocol and etiquette intelligence skills are more important than ever. The Protocol School of Washington offers accredited training programs that can help you develop and enhance your expertise in cross-cultural understanding, etiquette, protocol, communication, and leadership to achieve your personal and career development goals.

December 11, 2024

• Syria in maps: Who controls the country now Assad has gone? - "In just two weeks, Syrian rebels have swept from their enclave in the north west to capture a string of major cities, before reaching the capital Damascus and toppling President Bashar al-Assad 13 years after the start of the country's civil war."
• Saudi Arabia is set to be announced as the 2034 World Cup host - "Human rights groups warn of ‘unimaginable human cost’. Global soccer governing body FIFA is set to meet on Wednesday to announce the hosts for the next two men’s World Cups. However, the outcome will be no surprise."
• How to Avoid Pickpockets & Street Scams - "Staying aware, keeping your valuables close and employing 'layers of security' are among the ways to improve your street savvy."
• Travel 101: Our Favorite Hacks, Hints & How-Tos - "Successful trips take thorough preparation, from picking the right destination to nailing down all the details. We’ve done the homework so you don’t have to."
• These Are 5 Must-Visit European Destinations For 2025 According To Travel Experts - "Fairytale castles, ancient cities with origins lost to time, and the kind of architectural wealth younger nations on our side of the pond will take centuries to hoard: Europe is where every culture buff will be headed in the coming year."
• 36 Hours in Honolulu: Things to Do & See - "Explore lush forest trails, midcentury architecture and tropical flavors in Hawaii's multicultural capital."
• Macy’s is in deep trouble. It could be sitting on a gold mine - "Macy’s would be more valuable if it just shut down its business and sold everything off for parts. Macy’s is sitting on real estate that is more valuable than the company itself."
• Lawyer cites 300 potential cases against Diddy - "A lawyer representing several alleged victims of Sean 'Diddy' Combs says the potential number of civil legal cases against the musician 'is probably in the 300 range'."
• Coffee price surges to highest on record - "On Tuesday, the price for Arabica beans, which account for most global production, topped $3.44 a pound (0.45kg), having jumped more than 80% this year. The cost of Robusta beans, meanwhile, hit a fresh high in September."
• The Princess of Wales to Gigi Hadid: How ultra-traditional tweed found a new fanbase - "Once synonymous with the aristocracy, the thoroughly British winter favourite is now in demand more than ever. It is 'timeless and beyond trends - and generally self-cleaning'."
• This Italian City Is the Birthplace of Pizza & Its Historic Center Is One of the Largest in Europe - "Here's everything you need to know about planning a trip to Naples, Italy."
• Skiing in Italy will soon be only for the rich, Olympian warns - "A former skiing champion has warned that Italy will stop producing top skiers as prices soar and the sport returns to being a pleasure enjoyed by the rich. Paolo De Chiesa says the sport’s stars of tomorrow are frozen out by costs of €20,000 a year to practise, while daily tickets hit €82 in the Dolomites"
• What happened when I challenged myself to ski carbon-free - "If you take the train, stay somewhere low-impact, eat low-food-miles fare and avoid the ski lifts, can you still have fun? Our writer finds out in La Plagne."

December 10, 2024

• inside Syria’s ‘slaughterhouse’ prison - "Saydnaya Prison: Mapping the Assads' 'human slaughterhouse'."
• Assad's life of luxury revealed as Syrian civilians ransack building - "As Syrian civilians ransacked various locations belonging to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, CNN's Salma Abdelaziz looks at the luxurious life the Assad family lived while the majority of the population lived in poverty."
• Luigi Mangione charged with murdering healthcare CEO in New York - "Luigi Mangione was taken into custody at a McDonald's in the town of Altoona, Pennsylvania, on Monday after a customer at the fast-food outlet recognised him. An Ivy League graduate from a prominent Maryland family, he was found in possession of a gun and a handwritten document that expressed 'ill will' towards corporate America, according to police."
• Golden Globes: The nominations in full - "The nominations for the Golden Globe Awards 2025 have been announced, with musical Emilia Pérez leading the charge with 10."
• Airlines seen making $1 trillion for the first time in history - "The global airline industry will likely rake in more than $1 trillion in revenue next year, as passenger numbers look set to hit an all-time high of 5 billion, the International Air Transport Association said Tuesday."
• Murdoch loses bid to change trust in real-life 'Succession' battle - "A real-life 'Succession' battle for Rupert Murdoch's media empire has ended with a Nevada court commissioner denying the billionaire's bid to change a family trust and give control to his eldest son."
• Considering moving out of the US in 2025? These are the best countries for American expats - "One helpful resource is the annual Expat Insider survey by InterNations, an expat community with more than 5.4 million members. The survey, which has been running for more than a decade, reflects input from more than 12,500 expats representing 175 nationalities in 174 countries or territories."
• Google says it has cracked a quantum computing challenge with new chip - "Google on Monday said that it has overcome a key challenge in quantum computing with a new generation of chip, solving a computing problem in five minutes that would take a classical computer more time than the history of the universe."
• 12 Phrases Brilliant People Use To Politely End A Conversation With Anyone - "It's all about showing the other person appreciation and grace."
• The Best Apple Watch Apps That Boost Productivity - "The Apple Watch doesn’t naturally lend itself to productivity. But you can change that."
• Babygirl to Gladiator II & Conclave: The 20 best films of 2024 - "BBC film critics Nicholas Barber and Caryn James pick their highlights of the year, including an erotic thriller with a twist, an intimate papal drama and the return of a swords-and-sandals epic."
• 10 Of The Best Years In Movie History (Have You Seen How Good 1999 Was?) - "Some years were particularly impressive in the history of film. For example, many say 1984 is the best year for film because franchises like Terminator and Ghostbusters started that year, as did the career of now-famous director John Hughes."
• Tourists warned about 4 items to avoid packing in hand luggage for smoother airport checks - "Packing for a holiday can be exciting, but there are some unexpected items that could cause delays or complications at airport security. The first, important warning from the experts involves packing electronic devices containing lithium-ion batteries. While it’s common for travellers to pack snacks or souvenirs, foods like jams, soft cheeses, and chutneys are subject to the 100ml liquid limit and could be confiscated. Different countries have their own specific regulations regarding food, and some may impose additional restrictions on certain items."
• The last Inca bridge master - "Nearly 500 years after the collapse of the largest empire in the Americas, a single bridge remains from the Inca's extraordinary road system - and it's rewoven every year from grass."

December 9, 2024

• Trump lays out sweeping early acts on deportation & January 6 pardons, says Cheney & others ‘should go to jail’ - "President-elect Donald Trump in a television interview that aired Sunday previewed a sweeping agenda for his first days in office, outlining how his administration will prioritize deporting migrants with criminal records, vowing to pursue pardons for January 6 defendants on his first day, and raising the possibility that former Rep. Liz Cheney and other political opponents could face jail time."
• Trump is in & some Americans say they’re out. Interest in moving abroad spikes after the election - "Moving abroad is a complicated process and there are a number of factors - jobs, kids in school, aging parents - that can hold back those who consider it."
• In pictures: Taylor Swift’s ‘Eras Tour’ - "During the tour, the singer has been credited for boosting local economies and breaking attendance records. Her fans in Seattle caused seismic activity equivalent to a 2.3-magnitude earthquake, according to a seismologist. And she made headlines for giving the tour's truck drivers $100,000 bonuses."
• How Jaguar lost its way - long before that controversial advert - "'Jaguar has no desire to be loved by everybody,' said Gerry McGovern as he strode across the stage on a slightly chilly evening in Miami last week. It was a bold statement from Jaguar Land Rover's creative director, but it summed up the aura around the relaunch of one of the UK's most famous brands."
• Behind The Patek Philippe Cubitus - "What do you do when you, as the owner of a watch company, have a thing for square watches? That’s correct: you create a square watch. That, in a nutshell, is the origin story behind the Patek Philippe Cubitus. The launch of the first all-new product line in 25 years was a significant moment not only in the brand’s history but also for Thierry Stern, who is both the owner and director of Patek Philippe, one of Switzerland’s four leading independent watch manufacturers. Let’s examine why the Cubitus is what it is and what it’s meant to do."
• King Charles: Mama wore coronation crown at bathtime for practice - "King reveals anxiety that his headpiece would ‘wobble’ during his investiture last year and the steps to get used to it, as his late mother did."
• 10 Habits To Prevent ‘Brain Rot’ & Create A Smart Brain In 2025 - "The Oxford University Press, publishers of the Oxford English Dictionary, has dubbed 'Brain Rot' the official Word of the Year for 2024. Modern neuroscience has developed imaging techniques to advance our understanding of how to prevent 'Brain Rot' and nurture it for happiness and career success."
• Can chicken soup & other home remedies really fight off a cold? - "There are few experiences as universal as catching a cold. And while there are around 200 viruses that cause it, there seem to be almost as many home remedies to combat it. But do any of them work? From orange juice to zinc lozenges, chicken soup to garlic capsules, there are plenty of home remedies for the common cold. But is there any evidence that they work?"
• How Charles M Schulz created Charlie Brown & Snoopy - "Charles M Schulz drew his beloved Peanuts strip for 50 years until his announcement on 14 December 1999 that ill health was forcing him to retire. In History looks at how an unassuming cartoonist built a billion-dollar empire out of the lives of a group of children, a dog and a bird."
• A world class champion freestyle skier's guide to La Plagne, France - "Tess Ledeux grew up on the slopes of La Plagne and now she's a world-class freestyle champion. Here are her picks for her home slopes, from après-ski to otherworldly Alpine views."

December 8, 2024

• Inside Notre Dame, Paris’ Gothic gem, as it reopens to the world - "Five years after it was nearly destroyed in a devastating fire, Notre Dame de Paris formally reopened on Saturday with a two-hour ceremony inside the famed cathedral’s gleaming, newly renovated interior."
• In pictures: Notre Dame’s breathtaking restoration five years after fire - "Thousands of artisans, engineers, carpenters and other craftspeople came together to resurrect the beloved UNESCO world heritage site. The limestone walls have been methodically cleaned, while numerous other architectural elements and centuries-old relics meticulously restored."
• Bashar al-Assad’s rise from London ‘IT geek’ to brutal dictator - "The Syrian despot took an interest in politics only after his older brother died in a car crash. Syrian rebels claimed his two decades of rule ended with his flight from Damascus."
• Daniel Craig on James Bond, sex & Queer: ‘Am I pushing it too far? - "In a rare interview, the actor talks about masculinity and why he left 007 behind to play an addict in love with a younger man in his new film."
• Apple Watch tracks more health metrics than you realize - "A few more metrics include water temperature around you, how frequently (and how long) you wash your hands, and your physical effort while working out. Some metrics are more useful than others, but when you better understand what your Apple Watch collects, you can better utilize it."
• Dolby Atmos for music streaming is a waste of time - "Dolby Atmos may be the new thing in music, but that doesn't make it better. As with anything, it depends on how it's used. In the case of classical and jazz, Atmos is able to breathe new life into already incredible recordings. With other kinds of music, though, it's a much more mixed bag."
• I’m a personal trainer. These are the weight workouts I recommend, especially as you age - "From dumbbell lunges to strolls with ankle weights, here are the best weighted workouts worth performing regularly for overall strength - especially as you get older. Plus, we recommend the exact gear to help you master them."
• Look of the Week: Pamela Anderson’s still repping her bare face - "At the annual Gotham Awards on Tuesday night, Pamela Anderson arrived on the red carpet in a strapless champagne-hued Oscar de la Renta satin gown. As the 'Baywatch' star turned to pose for the wall of photographers, a larger-than-life bow peeped out from the back of her dress. Yet her main accessory was her fresh, barely made up face."
• What’s next for TikTok now that the app might get banned? - "TikTok’s US-based users could have only a few more weeks to enjoy scrolling through their For You Page before the app is banned in the country starting on January 19, 2025."
• See King Charles & Queen Camilla’s Christmas card - "King Charles and Queen Camilla have selected a photo taken in the garden at Buckingham Palace for their Christmas card this year."
• The long & winding road to The Beatles' break-up - "It could be said eight violins, four violas, four cellos, three trumpets, three trombones, two guitars, and a choir of fourteen women were what finally broke up The Beatles. 'It was the straw that broke the camel's back,' according to Denise Kelly who has studied more than 300 pages of legal documents relating to the Fab Four's demise."
• Dorothy's ruby slippers sell for $28m at auction - "A pair of ruby red slippers worn by actress Judy Garland in the classic movie The Wizard of Oz have been sold for $28m at a US-based auction on Saturday."

December 7, 2024

• Charted: Per-Capita CO2 Emissions by Global Region (1960-2022) - "This infographic shows how per-capita CO2 emissions have changed across the world's seven major regions, over 60 years."
• A new $120,000 way to sail the world by living on a cruise ship for a year - "Spending $120,000 for a vacation sure does sound expensive. However, if it means you get to sail the world for a year with no land-bound expenses and you get free laundry and a balcony view of the world’s oceans, it starts to sound more alluring. Virgin Voyages is the latest cruise line to offer the chance to turn your relocation into a sea-location, with its new all-you-can-sail annual pass."
• King Charles' biggest diet sacrifice as he 'does anything to beat cancer' - "King Charles has made a number of adjustments to his diet in recent months as he continues his cancer treatment, with the monarch cutting out one particular food group."
• How Notre Dame was restored - in pictures, videos & maps - "From piles of rubble and soot, the centuries-old cathedral has re-emerged five years after the fire thanks to an army of skilled workers led by a retired general. Here’s how they did it."
• Inside ‘Rail Force One’: The Trains That Take World Leaders to Ukraine - "With airspace closed and missiles flying, visiting Kyiv typically means 10 hours on bumpy tracks - even for presidents, prime ministers and business magnates. It’s plenty of time to reflect."
• He Mocked the Rich on TikTok for Fun. Now He Can Get $30,000 Per Post - "Aris Yeager’s 'European Kid' videos have been an unexpected hit. Wealthy people and luxury brands have noticed."
• Apple music is better than Spotify & it's not even close - "Apple Music offers a larger music library with superior audio quality. Apple Music's human-curated playlists lead to better music discovery. Despite Spotify's features, Apple Music is the superior choice due to its better audio quality and organization."
• Putin’s luxury hideout has trout farm, helipads & ‘stolen’ waterfall - "Russian president claims his sole properties are a modest apartment and a garage - but drone video reveals a private estate twice the size of Monaco."

December 6, 2024

• Five memorable moments from a Formula One season unlike any other - "This season has been anything but boring. There was a parity across the grid that hadn’t been seen in recent years, with seven different drivers winning multiple races for the first time ever. Ten different drivers also finished on the podium, and there was a genuine attempt at unseating Verstappen."
• How Notre Dame’s famed Grand Organ regained its distinctive voice - "France’s largest musical instrument is ready to sound again. It has taken months of painstaking cleaning and decontaminating of 8,000 pipes, 115 organ stops and numerous other musical components, but on Saturday the majestic tones of the Grand Organ of Notre Dame will ring out once more."
• The 63 Most Stylish People of 2024 - "It was an election year. An Olympic year. A year of brats and cowboys, witches and swans. Amid it all, these people, characters and things stood out."
• Why Aging Experts Are Obsessed With ‘Health Span’ - "Trying to stay healthy into old age is a better goal than attempting to live as long as possible."
• The Winter Arc Asks You to Lock In for 3 Months. Some Take It to an Extreme - "The wellness challenge became popular this fall through social media, and has sparked a wide array of interpretations. Nearly every day for the past two months, Liv Jordan has woken up at 5:45 a.m., journaled and completed a cardio workout before breakfast. By the end of the day, she has made sure to hit at least 10,000 steps. Her three-month routine, meant to kick-start new wellness habits, is called the Winter Arc."
• Someone impossible to buy for? Perhaps AI can help - "Being familiar with artificial intelligence (AI), particularly through her work at the Institute of Analytics, she decided to see if AI could generate Christmas present ideas for her nine-year-old brother. She asked ChatGPT for suggestions for a gift for a nine-year old who loves the outdoors."
• How to Exercise for Better Sleep - "A fitness routine can be key to a good night’s rest. But too much exercise at the wrong time could aggravate insomnia."
• 'Her fans are making pilgrimages': How Taylor Swift's Eras tour became a near-religious experience - "Taylor Swift's Eras Tour, a 'cultural juggernaut' remarkable for both its scale and intimacy, comes to an end this week. Along the way, it has become the most extraordinary live event of our time – and for many, it's meant even more. Being relatable has long been Swift's calling card. Even as her fame and wealth has soared (she joined the Forbes World's Billionaires List earlier this year), she's continued to keep fans believing that she's not really all that different from them."
• How One of the World’s Richest Men Is Avoiding $8 Billion in Taxes - "The chief executive of Nvidia, Jensen Huang, has taken advantage of popular loopholes in the federal estate and gift taxes, which have quietly been eviscerated."
• Italy bans Airbnb self-check-ins - "The days of arriving late at an Airbnb in Italy and opening up the key box to let yourself will soon be over after the country issued a ban on self-check-ins under a new law it says is needed to combat potential terrorism."
• Does blowing your nose make cold symptoms worse? - "Before you blow your nose like a foghorn, know that nose blowing is helpful when done correctly. Forceful blowing can actually worsen your cold symptoms. Ear, nose and throat doctors, or ENTs, recommend abandoning the tissues altogether and stocking up on saltwater sprays. And if you want to blow, consider how you do it."
• From Portugal to Singapore: world’s longest train journey - "The world’s longest train journey takes about 21 days. During the journey, the train travels from Portugal to Singapore, crossing 13 countries and navigating a total of 11,654 miles."
• The Five Longest-Lasting Empires in History - "Images that come to mind when one thinks of empires include Roman legions, territories with seemingly endless boundaries, and great wars to conquer new lands. However, what is often overlooked is the power these empires held and how that power perpetuated for centuries."

December 5, 2024

• Bitcoin price reaches $100,000-mark for first time ever - "Experts react to bitcoin's $100,000 milestone."
• What next for Bitcoin after bursting $100k barrier? - "Bitcoin's price has blasted through the much-anticipated threshold of $100,000, raising questions about how much higher it could go - and whether it can shake off its notorious volatility."
• World’s top 100 cities revealed & London isn’t in the top 10 - "It’s been a big old year for Paris: the Olympics this summer, Notre Dame reopening this weekend, and now it’s been named the most attractive city in the world. It’s the fourth time in a row that the French capital has taken the No.1 spot in the Top 100 City Destinations Index by data analytics company Euromonitor International."
• Giant cyborg cockroaches could be the search & rescue workers of the future - "Cyborg beetles with 'electronic backpacks' could help find disaster victims. Researchers in Australia are fusing control backpacks onto beetles and cockroaches to direct their movements."
• Anna Wintour: My famous sunglasses are just a prop - "In an interview given to the BBC, the 75-year-old tastemaker explained they are not a fashion statement, but a 'prop'. 'They help me see and they help me not see,' Wintour said of the item she is barely in public view without. 'They help me be seen and not be seen. They are a prop, I would say'."
• The architects & designers to have on your radar in 2025 - "Otherworldly Swiss chalets and celebrity home renovations."
• 'Mocha mousse' to plum: The nine paint colours that can transform your home - "As Pantone's colour of the year 2025 is announced, we explore the paint shades that are trending now - and find out which colours can improve our mood."
• Global Innovation Index 2024 (GII) - "The Global Innovation Index 2024 (GII) takes the pulse of innovation against a background of steady but slow global economic growth, shrinking innovation finance and sluggish productivity. It reveals the most innovative economies in the world, ranking the innovation performance of around 130 economies while highlighting innovation strengths and weaknesses."
• What it's like to live in the world's most innovative countries - "To find out how innovation benefits day-to-day life in some of the top ranked countries, we spoke to residents and frequent travellers, who shared their tips on how to best experience the heart of the tech ecosystem and the ways that technology has improved their quality of life."
• Mareterra: Built into the sea, this $2 billion luxury ‘eco-district’ has increased Monaco’s size by 3% - "Known as a tax haven and playground for the rich, Monaco packs a population of around 39,000 - of whom almost seven in 10 are millionaires, according to property firm Knight Frank - into an area smaller than New York’s Central Park. But the world’s second-smallest sovereign state has just grown by 3%. New 'eco-district' Mareterra, which has been built into the Mediterranean Sea, expands the microstate’s land mass by almost 15 acres."
• Mareterra, the quintessence of luxury in Monaco - "The Principality's real estate projects are numerous and often aimed at a high-end clientele. Since its most significant construction in the 1960’s, Monaco has always been considered a pioneering state in real estate development. Discover the last titanic masterpiece inuagurated on December 4th 2024 : Mareterra." Monte-Carlo Sotheby's International Realty.
• Jaguar's new electric concept car divides opinion - "The 102-year-old luxury brand unveiled a new electric car concept during Miami Art Week. Social media users are divided, with many critizing the new aesthetic."
• Dark chocolate linked to lower risk of type 2 diabetes, study says - "Study looks at impact of two kinds of chocolate on type 2 diabetes risk. If you're a chocoholic, try to keep your intake to 1 ounce of dark chocolate a few times a week, a new study says."
• 8 Best High-Protein Nuts You Should Be Eating, According to Nutritionists - "Throw any of these in your bag to go with your lunch: Peanuts - Almonds - Pistachios - Cashews - Brazil Nuts - Hazelnuts - Pine Nuts - Walnuts."

December 4, 2024

• Call to Earth Day 2024: Celebrating the planet & taking action to protect it - "December 4 is the fourth annual Call to Earth Day."
• People who live longer than their friends usually practice these daily 8 habits (according to psychology) - "There’s a stark contrast between just living and living a long, healthy life."
• If you want your 70s to be some of the best years of your life, say goodbye to these 7 behaviors - "1) Dwelling on the past. 2) Holding onto grudges. 3) Ignoring the present moment ..."
• Visualized: Top Streamed Song on Spotify Every Year, 2014-2023 - "Spotify is one of the most popular paid music streaming services, totaling 626 million users across 180 markets, as of July 2024. This chart shows the top-streamed song of the year on Spotify from 2014 to 2023, with figures from Spotify, Complex, and Wikipedia."
• Take the Middle Seat on an Airplane & Be Purified - "It’s exposure therapy to the full spectrum of mistreatment modern life inflicts on us."
• Not jet-setting or cruising around in superyachts - "Here is how Melinda French Gates and MacKenzie Scott are leveraging their billion-dollar fortunes to make the world a better place."
• Meet Larry Fink, who is ‘richer’ than Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, Bill Gates, Mukesh Ambani, can buy half of US, many countries - " Larry Fink is the CEO of BlackRock, the world’s largest asset management company, which oversees assets worth USD 7.4 trillion. Larry manages the largest poll of public money."
• 7 ChatGPT Prompts To Slash Your Workload By 50% - "Smartphones exemplify the double-edged nature of technology. While they connect us and boost productivity, they can also be bottomless wells of distraction. Similarly, generative AI has the power to sidetrack us but can also supercharge productivity when used intentionally. With the right prompts, ChatGPT can help you hit your goals while leaving room for what matters most. Here are some to get you started."
• I know what Gwyneth Paltrow’s night at the ball with daughter Apple was like - "The actress’s daughter has just ‘come out’ in Paris. Rachel Johnson’s did the same. It’s been more than ten years since my daughter Charlotte 'came out' (for the first time, I should say, in the girls-in-pearls, royal court sense) in Paris at Le Bal des Débutantes, just as this year’s nepo-deb, Miss Apple Martin, did this very week."
• Kate Winslet cries over fat shaming video from 1998 Golden Globes - "The actress recalled the abuse she suffered after starring in Titanic, but said she later confronted the perpetrators, telling them ‘I hope this haunts you’."
• Ranked: The 15 Fastest Growing European Economies in 2024 - "At the top of the list, Malta stands out with an economy heavily focused on services, including tourism and financial services. The country also excels in manufacturing exports, particularly electronics and pharmaceuticals. Notably, Germany is Malta’s largest economic partner, accounting for 13% of its exports."

December 3, 2024

• Democrats left fuming over Biden’s decision to pardon his son - after he repeatedly said he wouldn’t - "President Joe Biden’s decision to pardon his son has left some Democrats fuming over his choice to repeatedly and unequivocally claim that he would never take that step, even though a pardon long appeared possible to Hunter Biden’s legal team."
• Elon Musk’s massive, multibillion-dollar Tesla pay package was blocked by a judge again - "The pay package, now worth around $101 billion based on Tesla’s closing share price Monday, is made up of 303 million Tesla stock options."
• BBC 100 Women 2024: Who is on the list this year? - "The BBC has revealed its list of 100 inspiring and influential women from around the world for 2024. Among them are stranded astronaut Sunita Williams, rape survivor Gisèle Pelicot, actress Sharon Stone, Olympic athletes Rebeca Andrade and Allyson Felix, singer Raye, Nobel Peace Prize laureate Nadia Murad, visual artist Tracey Emin, climate campaigner Adenike Oladosu and writer Cristina Rivera Garza."
• Best TV Shows of 2024 - “English Teacher,” “My Brilliant Friend,” “Shogun,” “Babylon Berlin” and “Somebody Somewhere” were among the series that stood out in a year when television felt more mid than ever.
• A Bird Flu Pandemic Would Be One of the Most Foreseeable Catastrophes in History - "Almost five years after Covid blew into our lives, the main thing standing between us and the next global pandemic is luck. And with the advent of flu season, that luck may well be running out."
• Why are doctors wary of wearables? - "Wearable tech – currently dominated by smart watches - is a multi-billion dollar industry with a sharp focus on health tracking. Many premium products claim to accurately track exercise routines, body temperature, heart rate, menstrual cycle and sleep patterns, among others. But many doctors - and tech experts - remain cautious about using health data captured by wearables."
• Save the planet: avoid almond milk & eat beans, vegans told - "Some alternative products are worse for the environment than real meat and dairy but Indonesian tempeh is a surprise winner, Oxford scientists find. Popular products designed for vegans were found to be relatively bad for the climate, including oat milk, almond milk and veggie burgers."
• How to avoid being a toxic friend - "A few simple steps to improve your relationships can help make sure you are the kind of friend you would wish to have yourself."
• Former F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone to sell car collection worth ‘hundreds of millions’ - "The collection, which is made up of 69 cars, includes world championship-winning Ferraris raced by the likes of Michael Schumacher and Niki Lauda. The news comes after Ecclestone pleaded guilty to fraud last year, having failed to declare more than £400 million (about $509 million) of assets held in a trust in Singapore. The former F1 supremo agreed to pay back almost £653 million (about $830 million) to HM Revenue and Customs, and was sentenced to 17 months in prison, suspended for two years."
• Elgin Marbles deal 'close', ex-Greek official says - "A deal that could see the Elgin Marbles returned to Greece is 'close', a former adviser to the country's government has told the BBC. The status of the Elgin Marbles - also known as the Parthenon Sculptures - has been a source of diplomatic tension between the UK and Greece for decades."
• How Many Pairs of Black Pants Is Too Many? - "A reader asks about the ideal number of black pants to own. Our fashion critic provides guidance on how many essential wardrobe pieces one should have."
• This steak has just been crowned the best in the world by Time Out - "From shiny South American steakhouses to old-school Portuguese eateries, these places officially serve up the best steaks on the planet - but the winner might just surprise you. ‘We don’t have world-famous steakhouses in Agadir,’ says our local expert Sally Kirby, but that hasn’t stopped the city in southern Morocco being home to the world’s best steak."
• Ranked: Countries With the Fastest Mobile Internet Speeds - "While 1.5 billion new people have started using the internet since 2018, there are clear divides in both mobile speeds and data traffic across regions. Overall, median mobile broadband speeds are five times faster in high-income countries compared to low-income countries. Adding to this, there is 20 times more median mobile broadband traffic per capita in high-income countries. The world’s fastest internet speeds are clustered in the Middle East and Asia, significantly outpacing average mobile download speeds in America."
• Ranked: Top Countries by Computing Power - "We break down the results of TOP500’s latest supercomputer ranking from a country perspective. As of November 2024, the United States has the most systems in the TOP500 ranking, at 172. It also has the highest combined value of maximum achievable performance, at 6.5 million TFlops (Teraflops)."

December 2, 2024

• Biden signs 'full & unconditional' pardon for his son Hunter - "The move deepens an entanglement of politics and the rule of law that is almost certain to worsen during Trump’s second term."
• What has Joe Biden said in the past about pardoning his son? - "Since Hunter Biden's conviction on federal felony gun and tax charges over the summer, the White House has insisted that President Joe Biden had no intention of pardoning his son."
• Brain rot is Oxford’s word of the year - a modern condition familiar to most of us - "'Brain rot' took the title in a vote in which more than 37,000 people participated, as well as public commentary and analysis of OUP’s language data."
• 15 of the best places to go for Christmas - "From England to the Philippines, these 15 places around the world traditionally offer up some of the best holiday atmosphere for a Christmas-drenched vacation."
• Meet the man who is trying not to die - "Bryan Johnson is a world-famous 'biohacker.' The centimillionaire who made his fortune selling Venmo for $800 million, now spends $2 million a year attempting to reverse the aging process, and trying to not die. CNN's Anna Stewart visits his home in Los Angeles to find out more about his daily routine."
• Elton John says he has lost his eyesight - "Elton John says he still cannot see, months after suffering a severe eye infection."
• 'People want nothing to do with him': How Ireland turned away from Conor McGregor - "'The fight game awaits!' Conor McGregor proclaimed to his millions of social media followers on Tuesday, while retailers pulled products linked to him from shelves, murals of him were erased and brands announced they had cut ties."
• 20 simple little everyday habits that only feel expensive - "Frugal People Are Sharing The Little Everyday Habits That Make Them Feel Rich Without Breaking The Bank."
• Four friends posed for a photo on vacation in 1972. Over 50 years later, they recreated it - "Four lifelong friends replicated this favorite vacation photo in Torquay, Devon, over 50 years later."
• A Collecting Guide: GÉrald Genta - "We delve into five decades of groundbreaking design, exploring the genius behind it, his stellar team, and the future of the brand with La Fabrique du Temps."

December 1, 2024

• Revealed: What Jesus REALLY looked like, according to experts - "The 7 most astonishing pieces of evidence that Jesus left behind."
• An assassin’s bullet mid-air, a surfer’s perfect moment, flooding in the Sahara Desert. This is 2024 in photos - "2024 has been extraordinarily unprecedented and historic."
• THE 200 BEST INVENTIONS OF 2024 | TIME - "200 innovations changing how we live."
• A man hid five treasure chests worth more than $2 million across the United States - "Here’s how to find them."
• Babygirl to A Complete Unknown: 12 of the best films to watch this December - "From a steamy age-gap thriller starring Nicole Kidman to a Bob Dylan biopic featuring Timothée Chalamet, these are the films to stream and watch at the cinema this month."
• Best Movies of 2024 - "The New York Times critics rank their 10 favorites this year."
• The Best Apps of 2024, According to Apple - "Apple has announced its finalists for the best apps for Apple platforms in 2024."
• World's Largest Gold Deposit Found, Worth Over US$80 Billion - "The Geological Bureau of Hunan Province announced the detection of 40 gold veins within a depth of 2 kilometers in the northeast Hunan county of Pingjiang. Valued at approximately 600 billion yuan or US$83 billion, the discovery could be considered the largest and most lucrative reservoir of gold ever uncovered."
• Tom Ford: Am I a billionaire? Yes, several times over - "He is one of the best designers of his generation and tomorrow night he will be honoured at the Fashion Awards. What’s next? Raising his son in the UK. Part of the reason Ford can comfortably afford the Chelsea house is that Estée Lauder bought Tom Ford, the eponymous brand he set up in 2006, for $2.8 billion in 2022. It has been estimated that his personal takeaway was $1 billion."
• End of the Eras: Taylor Swift’s unprecedented tour in numbers - "632 days on from its debut, the tour that made her a billionaire finally ends next weekend after breaking records and causing at least one diplomatic row."
• Can Harry & Meghan’s polo series really win back Hollywood? - "The couple are running out of personal material to put on screen - and with it their clout in Tinseltown. So how will their new sports documentary play on Netflix? The ultimate stakes here are whether Meghan and Harry will be able to renew the reported $100 million deal they signed with Netflix in 2020, or find another similarly lucrative landing pad elsewhere."
• The founder of Bugatti loved cooking so much that he established a fine-dining restaurant near his factory to welcome his affluent customer - "Now more than 100 years old, it has two Michelin stars and serves a 7-course meal for a fraction of what it would cost to change the oil of a Bugatti."

November 30, 2024

• The world’s most lovable cities for 2025 - "London has been crowned the overall best city in the world in the new ranking of more than 270 of the biggest cities on the planet. Alongside other data, it includes a survey of 22,000 people in 30 countries. But we’re taking a closer look at the lovability part of rankings, which measures a city’s vibrancy in terms of its culture, attractions, nightlife, dining and international reputation."
• Notre Dame is back - but not quite as you knew her - "With the cathedral set to open to the public on December 8, even today, the cause of the catastrophic fire that blazed through the monument on April 15, 2019, remains a mystery, though investigators believe it was accidental."
• King Charles tries ‘euphoric’ drink that is banned in the UK - "The king drank kava, which can cause both sedation and euphoria, during a visit to Samoa last month. Campaigners now want to legalise it Britain."
• It’s trickier than you think being super-rich - "What to wear to a megarich wedding. What to buy the happy couple who already have everything. How to act on a private jet. Shruti Advani on the do’s and don’ts of the one percent - and how to behave among them. Forbes estimates the billionaire population is at its highest and growing. According to the 2024 Billionaire Census by Altrata - the company that specialises in data on the wealthy - there are now 3,323 of them (431 of whom are women)."
• Steve Jobs thought devices would become ‘a bicycle for the mind’ - "Americans spend more than four hours a day on their smartphones - and more than half say they are addicted to their device. In May 2023, the surgeon general issued a warning about the concerning effects of social media on youth mental health. Behavioral misalignment - where our actions diverge from our best interests - is a recurring challenge across various domains. From the obesity epidemic spurred on by the mass introduction of processed foods to habitual overspending that came on the heels of access to easy credit, history is replete with examples of such misalignments."
• The Price of Being Cool? A Quarter-Billion Dollars - "An office building in New York City has become the talk of downtown and a hot spot for parties with outrageous guest lists. WSA building (short for Water Street Associates), the 31-story structure, at 175 Water Street, has become an improbable hub for artists, celebrities and influencers."
• The Unexpected Code Word Flight Attendants Use When They Find A Passenger Attractive - "If they think you're attractive, you may be referred to as 'Bob,' which, according to one flight attendant who spoke to Buzzfeed, means 'boyfriend on board.' Other flight attendants may also use 'Bob' to mean 'babe on board' or 'best on board,' so the term isn't only designated for handsome men."
• People who stay in better physical shape than their friends as they get older usually display these 8 habits - "Staying in shape as we age isn’t about luck, it’s about habits: 1) Consistency is key - 2) They choose real food - 3) Adequate sleep is non-negotiable - 4) They stay hydrated - 5) They maintain a positive mindset - 6) They listen to their bodies - 7) They limit alcohol consumption - 8) They make fitness a lifestyle, not a chore - Final thoughts: Fitness is a journey, not a destination."
• The World’s Best Single Malt Scotch Whisky, According To The New York World Spirits Competition - "The Ardbeg 17 YO, Single Malt Scotch won Best Distiller's Single Malt Scotch. Ardbeg is one of the most renowned distilleries on the island of Islay, Scotland. Its signature smoky character, derived from malted barley dried over a peat fire, and its unique balance of sweetness and complexity capture the maritime essence of the region."
• Most Powerful Countries in the World: 2024 Rankings - "The most powerful countries in the world command the global stage with a unique mix of economic strength, military power, cutting-edge technology and cultural reach. These nations influence international policy and hold significant sway over global affairs, using their resources, strategic positions and diplomatic skills to maintain dominance."
• ‘Would you survive 72 hours?’ Germany & the Nordic countries prepare citizens for possible war - "Apps and booklets are offering advice on how to build a bunker, stockpile food and live without electricity in case the worst happens."
• Business Class Vs. First Class: What Are The Main Differences? - "The most pronounced differences between the two classes are the in-flight seating and service. The seating in business class is more spacious than in economy class and offers reclining chairs that can lie flat. But is first class even worth it? There has been a rise in business-class cabins, originally designed to provide the utmost comfort and privacy to business travelers."

November 29, 2024

• World gets first glimpse inside Paris’s restored Notre-Dame - "The world is getting a first look inside a resplendent new Notre-Dame as France's President Emmanuel Macron conducts a televised tour to mark the cathedral's imminent re-opening. Five-and-a-half years after the devastating fire of 2019, Paris's Gothic jewel has been rescued, renovated and refurbished - offering visitors what promises to be a breathtaking visual treat."
• people who have traveled around the world are sharing the places that disappointed them most - "24 Of The Most Disappointing Vacation Destinations In The World, According To Travelers."
• Patek Philippe’s billionaire owner may relax on his 241-foot-long explorer yacht, but when it comes to business, Thierry Stern zips across the world in a customized Gulfstream G650 jet - "The Stern family, owners of Patek Philippe, are among the wealthiest families in the luxury goods sector, and its members don’t shy away from spending their fortune on expensive toys."
• The Dark Side of Gifting Gold This Christmas - "Gifting gold at Christmas has been a thing since the very first. And there are few better places to buy it than Dubai’s Gold Souk, which is reputed to be the largest and cheapest gold market in the world."
• Olive oil dinner gift could offend your host, Debrett’s warns - "Shun the trend for pantry goods and stick to wine and chocolates, the 250-year-old etiquette guide suggests."
• No, you can’t count on exercise to lose weight - "The reality for many people is that they don't lose anywhere near as much weight as they expect when they start working out, and scientists are beginning to establish why. Some researchers have suggested that the human body responds in unexpected ways when we increase our activity levels. But there are ways to boost the effects. 'Exercise on its own is not a very useful tool for weight loss,' Javier Gonzalez, professor of nutrition and metabolism at the University of Bath, says. 'Dieting to consume fewer calories than you expend is a more effective way to shed pounds, but the healthiest approach is when the two - healthy eating and exercise - are used hand in hand.'"
• How to Focus Like Your Life Depends on It - "To become more effective at any task, borrow from a Formula 1 driver’s mental tool kit."
• Frequent Fliers Are Rethinking Loyalty Programs & Setting Themselves Free - "Some travelers, frustrated with changing airline rewards programs, have stopped chasing status and adopted different strategies when booking flights and using credit cards."
• Orcas revive killer 1980s look with ‘salmon hats’ - "For humans the 1980s were the decade of perms and power suits. In the world of cetacean fashion, 1987 was the year a female orca off the US west coast started her own craze when she was seen with a dead salmon perched on top of her head."
• The Nespresso Tip That Transforms Any Coffee Pod Into Espresso - "It can turn a coffee pod into double espresso or a double espresso into a single shot."
• Moths Were Destroying My Clothes. Tiny Parasitic Wasps Saved Them - "A 'weird city version' of common countryside wisdom saved my favorite outfits."

November 28, 2024

• 100 Notable Books of 2024 - "Here is the standout fiction and nonfiction of the year, selected by the staff of The New York Times Book Review. As you browse, you can keep track of how many you’ve read or want to read. By the time you reach No. 100, you’ll have a personalized reading list to share."
• TIME's top 100 photos of 2024 - "very year the TIME photo department sits down to curate the strongest images that crossed our path over the previous 12 months. And every year, sitting with the images, we find ourselves mulling the ways this collection feels heavier than the last, how the year produced images unlike what we’ve seen before."
• Tech companies put on notice as Australia passes world-first social media ban for under-16s - "Australia’s parliament has passed a world-first law banning social media for children under 16, putting tech companies on notice to tighten security before a cut-off date that’s yet to be set."
• Coronations, protests & tightrope artists: Iconic images from Notre Dame’s history ahead of reopening - "For hundreds of years, Notre Dame was the backdrop to some of French history’s defining moments. On Friday, the cathedral itself will play the lead role as France’s President Emmanuel Macron visits the building ahead of its official reopening the following weekend. It will be the first glimpse inside the gothic church returned to its former glory, after a devastating fire five years ago and a $700 million euro ($738 million) restoration project."
• Hangman of Nazi war criminal Adolf Eichmann dies - "Shalom Nagar, the man who hanged Nazi war criminal Adolf Eichmann in Israel in 1962, has died in his late 80s. Nagar, a prison guard at the facility where Eichmann was kept, was chosen for the task and did not volunteer. He said he had nightmares about it for years afterwards. The hanging was the only judicial execution ever held in the state of Israel."
• How vital is a company's CEO? - "Boeing, Nike and Starbucks have all changed their chief executives in recent months. But just how important is the person in the top job for the successful running of such huge companies?"
• The hard-working origins of the 'blue-collar jacket' & other workwear classics - "The humble barn jacket, chore coat and donkey jacket have all gone from functional workwear to 'It-item'. As a trend, is it a betrayal of the garments' US and UK working-class roots - or does it 'honour the grit and resilience' that they represent?"
• How the bullet train transformed Japan - "Sixty years after the world's first high-speed train launched, rail enthusiast Paul Carter rides the bullet train along what's been dubbed the 'New Golden Route'."
• Is This Reborn 1950s Military Watch the Most Underrated Chronograph There Is? - "It’s hard to imagine a better chronograph than the Blancpain Air Command. Blancpain is largely known as the Fifty Fathoms brand, but the watchmaker's flyback chronograph, the Air Command, also deserves respect."
• The FBI got into the Trump rally shooter’s phone in just 40 minutes - "The bureau reportedly used an unreleased Cellebrite tool to open the phone."

November 27, 2024

• It’s expensive to visit the Maldives. Now it’s more expensive to leave, too - "From December 1, exit fees for those flying out of the country will increase as much as four times. The departure tax is broken down per passenger based on the class of service they’re using to fly out of the Maldives. Passengers in economy class will pay $50 (up from $30), business class $120 (from $60), first class $240 (from $90) and private jet travelers $480 per person (up from $120)."
• The beautiful country in Europe that hardly anyone visits - "Nestled in between the popular destinations of Switzerland and Austria, Liechtenstein is a tiny nation of just 160.5 sq. km and 39,000 people in the heart of the Alps."
• Situated Between Paris & Lyon Is An Overlooked French Paradise Known As 'City Of Art & History' - "Practically smack-dab in the middle of France, you'll find the ancient city of Bourges, also known as the 'City of Art and History,' which is famous for its stunning cathedral, fantastic museums, and breathtaking natural beauty."
• Inside BA’s new first-class suites: £800 an hour for most private seat - "We review the British Airways ‘hotel in the sky’, due for launch in 2026, which will offer its wealthiest clientele the only top-tier flight across the Atlantic."
• The cult of the ‘Spoons’: Inside the spartan, cavernous pubs that divide Britain - "Utter the single word “Wetherspoon,” or even the colloquial 'Spoons' to a Brit, and they’ll know what you mean. Some will grimace. Some will groan. Wetherspoon pubs are an institution in the UK. They enjoy cult-like status both among admirers, lured in by real ale and “pub grub” sold at astoundingly low prices, and detractors, who see them as emblematic of everything that’s wrong with modern Britain."
• Ranked: The 10 Most Visited Cities in the World - "UN Tourism predicts that Chinese tourism will continue to increase accelerate this year with the country implementing visa-free travel for citizens of France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, and Malaysia for a year."
• Bill Gates reveals his secret to keeping his memory intact as he ages - "The technology mogul has incorporated the memory palace into his routine to better organize ideas and recall critical details. He imagines a mental environment - a house, palace, or other space - and assigns each piece of information to specific elements within it."
• LVMH's Bernard Arnault got a letter from 93-year-old Warren Buffett saying he was making a mistake by upping his retirement age to only 80 - "The luxury chief made LVMH’s board extend the retirement age for its chairman and CEO (i.e., himself) from 75 to 80 just so he could stay longer. After that, Arnault received a letter from Warren Buffett, then 93, the legendary investor and founder of Berkshire Hathaway, warning him it was a mistake because it was too low an age limit, Bloomberg reported."
• Shoppers ditch search engines as AI shakes up online spending - "ChatGPT and other artificial intelligence platforms are changing the way we browse. It found that most shoppers use AI to find the best deals, but others hope to find specific items online. When The Times asked ChatGPT what it recommended for an 80th birthday present, it provided bullet points of ideas including custom jewellery, a video tribute, artwork and a memory book, a type of scrapbook."
• Apple Issues New Warning For Millions Of MacBook Users - "Apple is warning billions of Mac and MacBook users worldwide to update macOS as a matter of priority. The importance of applying this update has been reinforced thanks to an intervention by the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Agency."

November 26, 2024

• Flight attendants share secrets to surviving holiday travel - "Whether you’re flying home for Thanksgiving or heading abroad on a New Year’s Eve getaway, here’s a cabin crew’s guide to surviving the ups and downs of holiday air travel."
• Dictionary.com’s word of the year is very mindful - "'Demure,' a word that went viral over the summer, has been named Dictionary.com’s 2024 word of the year - beating out other contenders like 'brainrot,' 'brat,' and 'weird.'"
• Elon Musk floats buying MSNBC, but he’s not the only billionaire who may be interested - "Elon Musk has called MSNBC 'the utter scum of the Earth.' He has said the channel 'peddles puerile propaganda.' Just a few days ago he said, 'MSNBC is going down.' And now he is posting memes about buying the channel."
• How much of Musk’s wealth comes from tax dollars and government help? - "Elon Musk is the world’s richest person partly due to his companies’ impressive innovations. But his wealth is also due to government contracts and programs that affected his two main businesses - electric vehicles and space travel."
• Ranked: Top Performing Cryptocurrencies in 2024 - "The best performing cryptocurrency as of November 2024 is Dogecoin, which is considered by many to be the original 'meme coin'."
• From 100 Years of Solitude to Squid Game: Nine of the best TV shows to watch in December - "From the small-screen adaptation of a classic novel to the return of the phenomenon that is Squid Game, these are the shows to stream in December."
• Will you be going on holiday to... Greenland next year? - "Greenland is about to open up to adventure-seeking visitors. How many tourists will come is yet to be seen, but the three new airports will bring profound change."
• China’s hottest new tourist attraction is 5,000 feet in the air - "China has 3.7 million square miles of land to explore. But more and more young Chinese travelers are opting to see their country from the sky. The newest of these not-for-the-faint-of-heart structures is called Tianti ('Sky Ladder' in Chinese). It clocks in at 551 feet long (168 meters) and stretches between two cliffs at a height of 5,000 feet, according to Chinese state media."
• What’s Wrong With White Bread? - "After years of sourdough dominance, bakers are going back to basics."
• ‘Suicide pod’ could be used in the UK if assisted dying legalised - "A 3D-printed portable machine that suffocates a user with nitrogen at the press of a button could become available if bill passes."
• 13 International Dining Etiquette Rules We Should All Be Following - "1. In Portugal It's Rude To Ask For Salt And Pepper. 2. Loudly Slurp Your Soup In Japan. 3. The French Use Bread As A Utensil. 4. Don't Eat Off Of Your Fork In Thailand. 5. Hungarians Never Clink Their Glasses Together. 6. Ethiopians Eat Off Of Communal Plates ... If you've ever traveled to another country and eaten with the locals, there's a likelihood you've run into some unfamiliar food customs. Sometimes, not knowing about them ahead of time can be pretty embarrassing."
• 10 ingredients that increase the power of tea - "1. Ginger: Just 1-2 slices of ginger enriches the tea with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds like gingerol. 2. Cardamom. 3. Cinnamon. 4. Tulsi. 5. Turmeric. 6. Fennel seeds ..."

November 25, 2024

• Cop29 climate finance deal likely to be followed by equally bitter battles - "Rich countries still need convincing that giving money to poorer nations is very much in their interests too."
• In Sweden, we’ve been told to prepare for war. But will 21st-century citizens still rally for the common good? - "For decades, Swedish politics has promoted individual success. Now an official booklet urges us to unite ‘in case of crisis or war’."
• The intense battle to crown the world’s best chess player - "‘Like climbing Mount Everest:’ Inside the grueling world of the Chess World Championship. Ding Liren is seeking to defend his world title against Gukesh Dommaraju."
• Has running become the new speed dating? - "The possibility of romance may be behind the spike in running."
• 9 Destinations You Should Not Visit In 2025, According To Travel Experts - "We invite you to do the same as we unveil Fodor's 2025 rendition of the No List, again highlighting 9 destinations to avoid: Bali; Barcelona; Venice; Canary Islands; Mallorca; Lisbon; Koh Samui; Mt. Everest; Agrigento; British Virgin Islands; Kerala; Tokyo; Kyoto; Oaxaca; Scotland North Coast 500."
• Europe's 10 best & 10 worst cities named - full list - "Europe is blessed with a number of stunning cities with iconic architecture and an array of cultures. But, as one survey shows, some cities are less fortunate with some locals disgruntled with their quality of life. The best and worst European cities might take you by surprise."
• Ranked: The 25 Best Cities To Live In The World, According To Expats - "Looking for the best cities to live in the world? You’re not alone: In the wake of the U.S. presidential election, droves of Americans are thinking of moving abroad. So the timing couldn’t be better for InterNations’ annual Expat City Ranking: 1. Valencia, Spain. 2. Málaga, Spain. 3. Alicante, Spain. 4. Panama City, Panama. 5. Mexico City, Mexico. 6. Bangkok, Thailand. 7. Madrid, Spain. 8. Abu Dhabi, UAE ..."
• The world's smallest airport with a runway barely longer than a plane - "The airport is so difficult to land at that pilots who succeed are branded 'new top gun'.Juancho E. Yrausquin Airport is perched on the island's only flat area and has a runway just 1,300 feet (396m) long - only 900 feet (274m) of which is usable. For comparison, the world's current longest plane, the Boeing 747-8I, measures 250 feet (76m)."
• The shoes that say: ‘My staggeringly expensive yacht is outside’ - "Entrepreneur and socialite Charles Finch has launched a footwear brand, Équipement de Vie, aimed at the super-rich but hands-on sailor."
• How the Global Distribution of Wealth Has Changed (2000-2023) - "The percentage of adults in the lowest wealth segment (under $10,000) decreased from 75% in 2000 to 40% in 2023. The group with wealth between $10,000 and $100,000 has seen the most significant growth over the last two decades. Individuals with assets worth $100,000–$1 million have grown from 8% to 16% of the population."

November 24, 2024

• Cop29: $300bn deal at COP criticised for being 'too little, too late' for scale of climate challenge - "Days of negotiations in Azerbaijan - that extended the talks by more than 30 hours - saw richer countries agree to raise their contribution to $300bn a year by 2035. The African Group of Negotiators described it as 'too little, too late'."
• Elon Musk has never been richer. He’s now worth nearly $350 billion - "The aftermath of the 2024 US presidential election has been a boon to Elon Musk. The richest person in the world got even richer Friday, with Musk’s net worth hitting a record $347.8 billion, Bloomberg reported."
• RFK Jr. wants fluoride out of drinking water - "What to know about fluoride in drinking water."
• Angela Merkel exclusive: Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin & me - "In a rare interview, the former German chancellor tells Decca Aitkenhead how her ‘certain ambition for power’ kept her in the top job for 16 years."
• The real meaning of Wicked according to is author - "'It was such a good idea': Wicked author Gregory Maguire on the real meaning of the story that captivated the world. Before it was a Hollywood blockbuster it was a megahit musical, and before that it was a 1995 novel. Author Gregory Maguire tells the BBC about the inspiration behind Wicked."
• A dancehall superstar's guide to Jamaica - "From hiking Dunn's River Falls to having bun and cheese, here are international pop artist Shenseea's picks for how to experience the best of her home nation."
• Taking A Look At The GPHG | Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de GenÈve 2024 Winners - "Let's see how many of our favorite picks claimed victory in their respective categories. Looking at the results, Van Cleef & Arpels was the night's biggest winner, taking home three awards, followed by Chopard with two awards."
• Mapped: Countries With the Most Three-Star Michelin Restaurants - "Michelin's home country, France, holds the most three-star Michelin restaurants in the world, making up 30 of the 145 restaurants. The country is also home to 660 Michelin-starred restaurants, the highest in the world."
• Daily Walks Could Help You Live Over a Decade Longer - "A new study has found that greater amounts of physical activity are associated with living longer. Setting a goal to walk 160 minutes per day could increase people's lifespan by around 5 years. Also, those people who are least active could increase their longevity by as much as 11 years."
• 2 ‘Marriage Realities’ That You Need To Accept - By A Psychologist - "To truly thrive in your relationship, you need to accept two key marriage realities first. Once you embrace them, you’ll find yourself better equipped to handle the inevitable ebbs and flows - and to take them in stride: 1.You Need A Natural 5:1 Ratio. 2. You Need To Balance Competing Priorities."
• I Only Travel With a Carry-on & These 17 Items Are Helping Me Pack for a Month-long Holiday Trip Abroad - "I’m bringing tech, cozy sweaters, gifts, and more with these genius packing hacks."
• Ultra-Long-Range: A Guide To The Future Gulfstream G800 - "The Gulfstream G800 is the longest-range biz jet, able to fly non-stop from New York to Shanghai or Johannesburg. The G800 features a top speed of 0.925 Mach, and saves time on long-range routes. The cabin includes 4 living areas with ergonomic seats, circadian lighting, a fresh air system and reduced cabin altitude for comfort."

November 23, 2024

• Cop29 live - day 13: rich nations to raise climate finance offer to $300bn as Thunberg warns summit ‘about to agree to death sentence’ - "The talks in Azerbaijan have seen nations at odds over how much money developed countries should provide to poorer ones."
• Just how big was Donald Trump’s election victory? - "Republican President-elect Donald Trump has said his election victory handed him an 'unprecedented and powerful' mandate to govern. But the data suggests it was a much closer contest than he and his allies are suggesting. Most voters picked someone other than Trump."
• Trump has promised again to release the last JFK files - "More than 60 years after President John F. Kennedy was assassinated, conspiracy theories still swirl and any new glimpse into the fateful day of Nov. 22, 1963, in Dallas continues to fascinate. But experts say don’t expect big revelations."
• Elon Musk Gets a Crash Course in How Trumpworld Works - "The world’s richest person, not known for his humility, is still learning the cutthroat courtier politics of Donald Trump’s inner circle - and his ultimate influence remains an open question."
• Kim Kardashian cozying up to a robot is another example of AI entering our lives - "The next time you see dystopian thirst traps, we should be thinking about how these robots are going to be used by the self-proclaimed ‘warrior class’."
• King Charles’s doctor: If homeopathy helps patients, what’s the problem? - "The problem, scientists would argue, is that homeopathy undermines trust in real, evidence-based medicine. Dr Michael Dixon believes too many people are taking too many pills, and the health of communities could be improved by social prescribing."
• Tim Robbins: ‘You’re telling me Netflix is the future of cinema? We’re in big trouble’ - "With Silo, the actor - known for his strong political stances - is still choosing roles he truly believes in that echo real life. But he’s now concerned about the wider future of his own industry, too."
• The Mobility Workout - "Have a stiff neck? Sore wrists? Struggle to pick things off the ground? Six exercises to keep you moving well as you age."
• The art of not caring what others think: 8 simple ways to live a happy life - "There’s a fine line between valuing others’ opinions and letting them dictate your life. But then there’s the liberating art of not caring what others think. It’s not about being dismissive or arrogant, but rather, choosing your own well-being and happiness over societal pressures. Let’s dive into 8 simple ways to master the art of not caring what others think, and start living a life that’s truly yours."
• Timex Brought Back Its Sold-Out Affordable Cartier Alternative & Made It Better - "Timex and Noah have re-teamed for a new Tank-style dress watch, this time featuring an improved complication. The new collab with Noah offers some big improvements over their last watch, but the low price remains unchanged."

November 22, 2024

• Cop29 live - day 12: new draft text published on final day of negotiations - "Developing nations pushing for climate crisis fund say this year’s climate summit has been ‘poorly led and chaotic’."
• People we’ve lost in 2024 - "Here are some notable people who have died in 2024."
• A.I. Chatbots Defeated Doctors at Diagnosing Illness - "A small study found ChatGPT outdid human physicians when assessing medical case histories, even when those doctors were using a chatbot."
• In the world’s most-visited city, here’s a view few tourists have seen - "Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar is one of the most bustling spots in one of the world’s greatest, busiest cities. Close to 50 million people pass through the 21 gates of the venerable marketplace each year, and up to 500,000 per day during peak season."
• MONTE-CARLO CASINO EXPANDS BEYOND MONACO FOR THE FIRST TIME IN HISTORY - "Monaco’s Société des Bains de Mer (SBM) has marked a historic milestone by opening its first Monte-Carlo Casino outside of Monaco. The inaugural casino was unveiled on Thursday, November 14, aboard the luxury cruise ship Crystal Symphony during a ceremony in Venice."
• How to keep cats out of Christmas trees - "It goes without saying that pets, especially cats, are extremely sensitive to new objects in their home environment and are very curious of those new additions."
• 6 Things in Your Home That Instantly Give Designers the Ick - "Design choices are highly personal, and what turns one person off might not bother another. But there are some that are so bad that they instantly give designers the ick."
• People who stay mentally sharp in their 70s & beyond usually adopt these 8 daily habits - "Staying mentally sharp into your 70s and beyond? It’s not just about luck, it’s about lifestyle."
• How Good Is Your Mobility? - "Test it: Rotate your head right and left, without turning your shoulders. Stand in front of a mirror, if it's easier. A healthy range of joint mobility means you can turn your head 80 degrees, or just short of your shoulder. Return to the starting point and look up. We lose a little range of movement as we age. Here are seven ways to test yours."
• Estonia’s curriculum is one of the best - what can it teach us? - "Schools in the tiny Baltic state excel in reading, mathematics and science as well as fairness and happiness. The key to Estonia's success is a broad and balanced curriculum, with an emphasis on problem-solving, critical thinking, entrepreneurship and digital competence, the qualities that employers want. Pupils are expected to be active participants in their learning rather than passive recipients of facts."
• Did ships really battle in the Colosseum? The bizarre true stories that inspired Gladiator II - "Ridley Scott's epic sequel starring Paul Mescal and Denzel Washington has been widely criticised for its historical inaccuracies. The BBC asks Roman history experts to separate fact from fiction."
• From utility to trend: The global rise of beanies in fashion - "Over the past decade, musicians, actors, and social media influencers have been seen sporting beanies in both casual and high-fashion settings."
• Does this banana scare you? The harsh reality of life with an unusual phobia - "The news that a Swedish politician has rooms swept for the fruit prompted online mockery last week. But for those who face bizarre and irrational fears - from buttons to crumpets - the everyday struggle is far from amusing."
• Rafael Nadal: a career in pictures - "One of the greatest tennis players of all time has retired from the game. We look back at some memorable moments of a glittering career and his 22 grand slams in pictures."

November 21, 2024

• Cop29 live - day 11: UN secretary general urges climate finance negotiators to ‘never forget what is at stake’ - "António Guterres appealed to ministers and officials to ‘navigate a path’ through their differences."
• Fury at climate talks over ‘backsliding’ on fossil fuels - "A row has broken out at COP29 climate talks as leading countries said a draft deal risked going back on a historic agreement to reduce the use of planet-warming fossil fuels."
• ‘It’s impossible to breathe’: Life in the world’s most polluted city - "Inside Delhi’s first ever clinic dedicated to pollution-related illnesses, Deepak Rajak struggles to catch his breath."
• Maurizio Cattelan’s duct-taped banana artwork fetches US$5.2m at New York auction - "Crypto entrepreneur Justin Sun bought one of three editions of the viral 2019 work, describing it as ‘a cultural phenomenon’."
• Interest in ‘golden visas’ has skyrocketed among US citizens since election - "Political and social division is driving interest in ‘golden visas’. Golden visas allow people to effectively buy foreign citizenship or residence through sizable investments, including in real estate, government bonds or startups."
• Study Finds Humans Age Faster at 2 Sharp Peaks - Here's When They Hit - "If you wake up one morning, look in the mirror, and wonder when you suddenly grew so much older, you may not be imagining things. According to research into the molecular changes associated with aging, humans experience two drastic lurches forward, one at the average age of 44 and the other at the average age of 60."
• Mariah Carey's All I Want for Christmas is You went from modest 1990s hit to Christmas's defining song - here's why - "When it was first released in 1994, it made a mere ripple - but 30 years on, it is a track that reigns supreme over the holiday season. What is the secret of its success?"
• Baby saber-toothed cat mummy found in Siberia with intact skin, fur & toes is ‘mind-blowing,’ scientists say - "Abundant fur and mummified flesh covered the partial corpse, and its face, forelimbs and torso were nearly intact. The cub’s dark brown fur was short but very thick, measuring about 0.8 to 1.2 inches (20 to 30 millimeters) long. Its fur was also surprisingly soft."
• Inside South Africa's 'ruthless' gang-controlled gold mines - "Ndumiso told the BBC that after being laid off by a big mining firm, he decided to join the gang in its underground world to become what is known as a 'zama zama', an illegal miner. Ndumiso said he normally stayed underground for about three months at a time, and then came up for two to four weeks to spend time with his family and sell his gold, before going back into the deep pits."
• ‘Middle aisle widows’ lose men to Lidl’s tempting tool bargains - "The central displays of gadgets and boys’ toys are so successful they cause family rows, said the supermarket’s chief executive."
• Wearing Your Personality on Your Handbag - "Bag charms - or key chains by another name - have begun to rival holiday ornaments in their variety and as a form of self-expression."
• 10 things highly successful people always keep private - "There’s a fine line between sharing and oversharing, especially when it comes to success. Highly successful people understand this line better than anyone. They know that some things, no matter how personal or professional, should always remain private."
• 8 things in life only smart people find exhausting, says psychology - "It’s not about being arrogant, or thinking you’re superior. It’s about the unique way your brain operates, the constant analyzing, the deep thinking that never stops - it can get tiring."
• 5 Turntable & Speaker Combos That Simplify the Vinyl Experience - "It makes buying a working turntable system super easy."
• This cool retro Lego record player can be yours for free this weekend - "As part of Lego’s popular gift event that takes place November 23 and 24, members of the company’s Insiders club can get access to several 'gift-with-purchase' sets, including the Retro Record Player, that can be had for free if you spend $250 or more."

November 20, 2024

• Cop29 live - day 10: call to block Azerbaijan president from talks to allow negotiators to work - "Cop28 adviser Paul Watkinson says Ilham Aliyev should be kept away from talks to let negotiations take place."
• The ‘Trump dance’ takes the sports world by storm - "The dance was first seen years ago during Trump’s rallies, during which he would play up to his supporters by pumping his fists and moving them alongside his body, swaying and dancing to rally staples like 'YMCA' by The Village People."
• Stealth fighters & a massive mothership drone: The high-tech weapons China unveiled at its largest airshow - "China showed off its rapidly advancing military technology by unveiling a string of cutting-edge hardware at the country’s largest airshow last week."
• The disputed region of India that bakes bread to rival France - "Kandurs, the traditional bakers of Kashmir, use clay tandoor ovens to prepare various breads. Besides girda and lavasa, Kashmir’s bread pantheon includes the croissant-like katlam, kulcha, the bagel-esque, sesame-seed dusted tschowor, the festive sheermal, the flaky bakarkhani and roth, to name a few."
• So long, Fifth Avenue. The world’s most expensive shopping street is now in Milan - "Milan’s Via Monte Napoleone has beat out New York’s Fifth Avenue to become the world’s most expensive shopping street, marking the first time a European city has topped the rankings."
• RenÉ Magritte’s ‘L’empire des lumiÈres’ sells for record $121 million - "As one of the largest paintings in a succession of 27 works all titled ‘L’empire des lumières’('The Empire of Light'), the 1954 canvas is well known among 20th century art experts for its scale, pristine condition and subtle details."
• Cambridge Dictionary’s word of the year 2024 is all about thinking positive - "Popularized by celebrities such as singer Dua Lipa, 'manifest' refers to the practice of using 'methods such as visualization and affirmation to help you imagine achieving something you want, in the belief that doing so will make it more likely to happen,' the British dictionary publisher said in an announcement Wednesday."
• Five countries helping you reconnect you with your roots - "As DNA ancestry testing kits like Ancestry and 23&Me have become more accessible and affordable, 'heritage tourism', or travel based on reconnecting people with their places of origin, has become more popular than ever."
• A pilot says these 10 carry-on essentials make for a first-class experience - "You're not ready for take-off until you've outfitted yourself with these, calming, hydrating, skin-saving supplies."
• The Unexpected Reason To Pack A Tennis Ball In Your Carry-On Bag Before A Long Flight - "A tennis ball can be the perfect on-the-go massage tool. While many airlines offer seat yoga programs on their in-flight entertainment systems, they may not work as well for muscle aches or stagnant circulation as a tennis ball."

November 19, 2024

• Cop29 - day 9: ‘It is feasible’: climate finance won’t burden rich countries, say economists - "Experts say mix of taxes with development bank and private funding can provide $1tn a year needed by 2030."
• 'Push Russia harder' Zelensky urges allies on war's 1,000th day - "Ukraine's President Zelensky urged Europe to "push Russia harder" in a speech marking 1,000 days since Vladimir Putin launched a full-scale invasion of the country."
• International Men's Day (IMD) - is a global awareness day for many issues that men face, including parental alienation, abuse, homelessness, suicide, and violence, celebrated annually on November 19."
• AI is hitting a wall just as the hype around it reaches the stratosphere - "It’s been two years since OpenAI bestowed ChatGPT upon the world and set off a kind of gold rush for artificial intelligence. The key to that narrative is the promise that large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT keep improving at an exponential rate. Some AI skeptics have warned for years about 'scaling laws' - the idea that you can continually improve a model’s output just by throwing more data and computing power at it."
• The 15 minute show that determines what you wear - "How a humble strip of walkway changed fashion forever. These fleeting displays have the power to cement a designer’s legacy. Even if you’re not a devout follower of fashion, you may be familiar with some seminal runway moments - the spray-painting robots used in Alexander McQueen’s Spring-Summer 1999 show, for example, or the time Chanel launched a life-sized rocket ship during its Fall-Winter 2017 presentation."
• Italian village offers $1 homes to Americans upset by the US election result - "Like many other places in rural Italy, Ollolai has long been trying to persuade outsiders to move in to revive its fortunes after decades of depopulation. It’s been selling dilapidated houses for as little as one euro - just over a dollar - to sweeten the deal."
• Why Women Find Watching True Crime Comforting - "'The explanation I see most frequently is that women watch true crime to protect themselves: We are usually less physically powerful than men are, and we think that by understanding the psychology of criminals we can better avoid them.'"
• How Healthy Are Sweet Potatoes? - "Their moment in the spotlight has arrived. Let’s take a look at their best qualities. Sweet potatoes are one of the healthiest foods on your Thanksgiving table. They’re full of nutrients that keep your systems humming and your blood sugar steady, and they can even reduce your cancer risk."
• How Do I Decide What Socks to Wear? - "'I love socks. But should I be styling them to match the hem of my pants or the color of my shoes or the color in my top?' There is another option, which is to treat your socks the way people now treat their handbags: as flags of personality."
• Secrets for Healthy Flying, From Doctors Who Treat Pilots - "Here’s what specialists in aerospace medicine want you to know about air travel. Avoid carbonated drinks with meals for at least an hour before boarding, Dr. Alves said. Eating a large meal increases the chance of swallowing air, he added, and all that gas will expand in high altitudes. That can hurt - sometimes so badly, he said, that people think they have appendicitis."
• Gin & tonic overtakes tea as Britain’s favourite drink - "The two drinks arrived in the country in the 17th century and the UK is the world’s biggest market for gin, but sales of black tea are flagging."
• The stunning 30-hour train ride that sells out in minutes - "Turkey is the final stop for one of the most famous train rides in the world, the Orient Express. But another journey - 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."
• Google’s Gmail Decision - Why You Need A New Email Address - "A huge update for 2 billion Gmail users has suddenly leaked; here's what you need to know."
• tvOS 18 added a new Apple TV 4K setting that’s been a no-brainer upgrade - "tvOS might be one of the hardest platforms for Apple to iterate upon. There’s only so much you can do to improve the TV experience, right? But tvOS 18 has proven that adage wrong by offering several great new features - including a key Enhance Dialogue setting that’s been a no-brainer upgrade for me."
• The 25 best songs from musicals - from Wicked to Cabaret - "As the film version of Wicked hits cinemas, our critics pick the best show tunes - from Mary Poppins to Les Misérables, from Cats to Cabaret."

November 18, 2024

• Cop29 live - day 8: frustration at slow progress on climate finance agreement - "Campaign group WWF says there’s a ‘need for parties to get together and work through this’ as experts call for $1tn to reach developing countries each year."
• 5 charts show how the planet’s biggest polluter is becoming a clean energy powerhouse - "Trump might nix America as a climate tech leader. 5 charts show China winning that race."
• Delhi air pollution reaches 'severe plus' levels - "Air pollution in India's capital Delhi has soared to extremely severe levels, choking residents and engulfing the city in thick smog. Monitors recorded pollution levels of 1,500 at 15:00 IST (10:30 BST), according to tech company IQAir - 15 times the level the Word Health Organization (WHO) considers satisfactory for breathing."
• Organic carrots recalled in US after deadly E. coli outbreak - "Organic and baby carrots sold at grocery stores across the US have been recalled after an E. coli outbreak that has killed one person."
• How railroads inspired the creation of time zones - "The invention of railroads ushered in a new era of land travel, and forever changed the way humans perceive time. On this day in 1883, railroad companies in the United States and Canada transformed time in both countries, leading to the ground-breaking concept of time zones around the world."
• 50 million people have stopped buying luxury brands like Dior & Burberry after ‘broken promises’ to customers - "Only a third of luxury brands will end the year with positive growth. 'You need to constantly meet consumers at a new angle and surprise and delight them,' an equity analyst told Fortune."
• Global luxury spending to land near €1.5 trillion in 2024 - "Remaining relatively flat as consumers prioritize experiences over products amid uncertainty. Pockets of luxury growth center around experiences, including hospitality and dining, and experiential goods geared toward high-net-worth individuals. Personal luxury goods market seeing its first slowdown since the Great Recession, excluding Covid, as consumers cut back on discretionary items."
• ‘Functional Luxury’: How Rimowa Keeps Growing in a Downturn - "After quadrupling sales in five years following LVMH’s acquisition, the German luggage maker is seeing continued momentum during rocky times for high-end shopping, including in China. CEO Hugues Bonnet-Masimbert says the brand is focusing on functionality and innovation, including its first push into the handbag category."
• Bill Gates’ $645 million fuel-cell superyacht has finally completed its extensive sea trials - "Powered by liquid hydrogen stored at a bone-chilling -423°F, nearly as cold as outer space, the mammoth vessel features an underwater lounge, a hospital, and a 29-foot contraflow pool."
• 10 most iconic designer bags of all time, from HermÈs, Gucci, Chanel & more - "Whether you’re in the market for an everyday sac or an investment bag, these designs never go out of style. Besides the usual suspects Hermès Birkin, Chanel Flap bag, Gucci Jackie and Louis Vuitton Speedy, there are also a few nifty surprises."
• The UK's 10 best stately homes - with number 1 once owned by King Charles - "With over 3,000 stately homes in the UK, we're spoiled for choice when it comes to visiting properties draped in finery and oozing grandeur. Here are 10 of the most unique residences."

November 17, 2024

• 100 Most Powerful People in Business - "What you’ll find on this list: leaders from 40 industries, ranging in age from their 30s to their 90s. You’ll come across very recognizable founders, chief executives of great businesses, disrupters, and innovators. What you won’t find: fossilized billionaires who are no longer active in business; nor will you find politicians, regulators, or seconds-in-command."
• Denmark’s Victoria KjÆr Theilvig wins 73rd Miss Universe - "Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark has been crowned Miss Universe 2024, becoming the first Dane to ever win the competition. The 21-year-old, a competitive dancer, entrepreneur, and aspiring lawyer, beat more than 120 other contestants to win the annual beauty pageant in Mexico City on Saturday night."
• See the best - & most outlandish - national costumes from Miss Universe 2024 - "Is it a bird? Is it a winged goddess? Is it an ode to the history of traditional Dutch ceramics? At Miss Universe 2024, it was all those things - and much more - as the annual pageant kicked off with its flamboyant national costume competition Thursday evening."
• Watch given to captain who saved 700 Titanic passengers sells for £1.56m - "Amount paid at auction is highest ever for memorabilia related to ship that sank on its maiden voyage in 1912."
• The world’s longest-range, single-aisle plane is poised to shake up transatlantic travel - "It’s the new Airbus A321XLR - the XLR is for 'Xtra Long Range' - and it just made its inaugural flight with Spain’s Iberia airline on Thursday, with a hop from Madrid to Boston. Iberia’s 182-seat plane is the world’s longest-range single-aisle commercial aircraft, with a range of up to 4,700 nautical miles (a little over 5,400 miles)."
• The Most Satisfying Car To Buy In The USA Is... - "It may not come as a surprise to learn the manufacturer in question is Porsche, the Stuttgart-based marque that has been responsible for building one of the most satisfying cars of the modern era; the Porsche 911."
• 10 key items in our wardrobe is enough - here's why - "The dopamine-spiking effects of ultra-fast fashion are far outweighed by the wellbeing rewards of a capsule wardrobe, according to these less-is-more experts."
• VÄxjÖ: A 'crazy town looking to go fossil free': Sweden's wooden city that was green before Greta - "Nearly a decade before Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg was even born, Växjö set itself on a path to a new vision of green urban living."
• Ranked: How Often People Go to the Doctor, by Country - "If a country’s average doctor visits are high, it could be easy to assume the population isn’t healthy. At the same time not going enough may seem like there’s an accessibility issue. As with most sociological data, the devil is in the details. And differences in payment systems, insurance plans, and how healthcare is delivered all play a part into why going to the doctor is more common or not."
• 6 Expert-Approved Vitamins & Minerals Essential for Aging Well - "If you're focused on healthy aging, these are the top vitamins and minerals that experts say you should consider."
• Try 6-6-6 walking routine to stay fit, improve wellbeing - "The 6-6-6 walking routine is a simple yet effective way to improve your overall health, reduce stress and can even help you sleep better."
• 12 Collecting Hobbies That Pay Off Big - "Once-popular hobbies like collecting stamps or coins might seem like relics of the past, but for dedicated enthusiasts, these forgotten pursuits can yield impressive financial rewards. From antique fountain pens to vintage perfume bottles, here are 12 under-the-radar collections that are rising in value, sparking interest among collectors and investors alike."
• Why is olive oil so expensive? The liquid gold that took over the world - "The main reason for the price hike, simply, is the weather. The summer of 2023 was the hottest on record globally (at least until 2024), with average temperatures in Europe hitting 19.63C between June and August - 0.83C higher than the average. A bottle that was £3.75 in 2021 is now £10. What happened - and is there a cheaper alternative?"

November 16, 2024

• Cop29 - day 6: Almost 500 carbon capture lobbyists granted access to Cop29 climate summit - "More lobbyists for the controversial technology were present this year, despite debate about its viability."
• Jake Paul beats Mike Tyson, 58, on points in drab contest - "Youtuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul left a permanent stain on two-time heavyweight champion Mike Tyson's boxing legacy with a tedious points win in front of 70,000 frustrated fans in Texas - and millions watching the controversial bout on streaming powerhouse Netflix. Netflix viewers report widespread issues streaming fight."
• Here’s Where All the Sanctioned Russians Superyachts Stand Today - "One just recently came off the sanctions list and straight onto the charter market for $3.2 million per week. Others have been confiscated. Still others are hiding in plain sight in Dubai and Turkey. How the many legal battles get resolved remains unclear."
• A First Look At Orient Express’ New Sailing Yacht - "Luxury travel brand Orient Express unveils new details about their sailing yacht, Orient Express Corinthian, slated to hit the seas in the summer of 2026."
• Inside the Britannic Explorer: This new luxury sleeper train is coming to England & Wales - "A new luxury train, complete with fine dining, plush double beds and spa treatments, will whisk travellers out of London and through the British countryside. With its 18 cabins, including a grand suite, doubles and twin, guests will be travel from the capital to three different locations, from a choice of Cornwall, the Lake District and Wales, on three-night journeys aimed at paying homage to the British tradition of touring and celebrating the art of slow travel."
• Who wants to be an air miles millionaire? Jet-setters race around globe - "A game of international hopscotch has attracted airline loyalty enthusiasts and travel fanatics. Not for a group of diehard flyers who have embarked on an epic mission to fly with 15 different airlines by the end of the year in an attempt to win one million air miles, equivalent to about £10,000 in cash."
• 'Set-jetting': How on-screen locations are becoming travel destinations - "Increasing numbers of travellers are seeking out the real-life filming locations of their favourite shows, even if the reality of life there is very different than how it's portrayed."
• Grandma with chunky sunglasses becomes unlikely fashion icon - "A grandmother in rural Zambia has become an style icon and internet sensation - after agreeing to play dress-up and swapping outfits with her fashionista granddaughter. Margret Chola, who is in her mid-80s, is known to the world as 'Legendary Glamma' - and adored by 225,000 Instagram followers for her striking and playful fashion photographs."
• The 25 Most Influential Cookbooks From the Last 100 Years - "Chefs, writers, editors and a bookseller gathered to debate - and decide - which titles have most changed the way we cook and eat."
• Should you freeze your brain? These scientists think it’s worth a shot - "Neuroscientists debate whether it will ever be possible to restore memories from preserved brain structures, but some are keeping the faith. The consensus of the poll of 300 neuroscientists is that there is a 40 per cent probability that we will one day resurrect memories from preserved brain structures - and then, perhaps, eventually fully emulate a brain."
• Why Humans Cry - "We’re the only species that sheds emotional tears, but much about them remains an enigma."

November 15, 2024

• Cop29 live: calls grow to ban fossil fuel lobbyists at summit as numbers soar - "UK Greens say climate measures ‘being derailed by the fossil fuel lobby’ and that Trump’s victory underlines the need to reform Cop."
• Trump’s RFK Jr nomination condemned as ‘public health catastrophe’ - "Trump’s latest controversial Cabinet pick could have a huge impact on Americans’ health and lives. Widespread criticism of health secretary role for anti-vaccine activist and purveyor of debunked conspiracy theories."
• Jake Paul & Mike Tyson face off in a boxing event unlike any other - "Friday’s bout at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, will begin at 5:30 p.m. ET and take place over eight rounds of two minutes. It will be free to watch with a Netflix subscription."
• Conan O’Brien named as Oscars host for 2025 ceremony - "The comedian will present the awards show for the first time in his career."
• Italian city Florence bans key boxes & tour guide loudspeakers to tackle overtourism - "The historic Italian city of Florence is taking steps to cut overtourism, introducing measures including a ban on key boxes used by short-term rental landlords and tour guide loudspeakers, amid complaints that a surge in visitors has become unsustainable."
• Wirecutter’s 25 Most Luxurious (& Pricey) Gifts - "Luxury is not one-size-fits-all. For the kitchen aficionado, it may be the Ferrari of ice cream makers. For a carpenter, a titanium hammer might excite and delight. With that in mind, we scoured our pages and polled our colleagues, testers, and writers to discover the most opulent, excellent items they’ve encountered."
• What is 'skiplagging'? Airlines Hate ‘skiplagging.’ Meet the Man Who Helps Travelers Pull It Off - "Aktarer Zaman is the founder of a controversial website that unearths airfare hacks, most notably skipping the last leg of a flight for a cheaper price."
• Steve Jobs hated his best friend Larry Ellison’s $160 million superyacht - "So much that in his quest to have the perfect vessel, he hired a world-renowned designer and brainstormed in countless grueling 12-hour-long sessions to create his futuristic 256-foot-long Venus yacht. In the Apple co-founder's biography, Walter Isaacson writes about how Jobs hated the design of Ellison's $160 million superyacht Musashi, which inspired him to design his own superyacht."
• The IWC Portugieser Eternal Calendar Wins the GPHG 2024 Aiguille d’Or (& All Prize Winners) - "IWC’s first secular perpetual calendar, a marvel of micro-mechanics and astronomical precision, brings the golden hand home."
• Breaking news: Swiss Court Finds John Lennon's Patek Philippe 2499 Belongs To Yoko Ono - "A bombshell decision on the hotly contested ownership of a seriously special Patek Philippe. Today, Switzerland's top court rejected an Italian watch dealer/collector's appeal to claim ownership of John Lennon's Patek Philippe reference 2499. As has been covered on these pages before (right here), the watch was originally a 40th birthday gift from Lennon's wife, Yoko Ono."
• How to Brew Coffee with a Moka Pot - "If you like your coffee strong, a stovetop moka pot is a simple way to brew a powerful cup of coffee: 1. Fill the bottom with hot water. Pour boiling water and let it cool for 30 seconds. 2. Fill the brewing basket to the top with medium coffee grounds. 3. Screw on the top. 4. Heat the moka pot on medium-low heat. 5. Listen closely. 6. Remove from heat & serve."
• 3 ancient foods are the staple of this blue zone’s longevity diet - "Six areas across the globe are known as the blue zones, where a combination of culture, mindset, diet, and environment help their residents live longer and healthier lives than most. Contrary to the Western diet where meat is the primary source of protein, beans, corn, and squash provide protein at a low cost and without the cholesterol and saturated fat of red meat."

November 14, 2024

• Cop29 live: Planet on course for 2.7C temperature rise, report warns, with ‘minimal progress’ in 2024 - "Join us for all the latest developments from day 4 of the climate summit in Azerbaijan."
• Trump has full control of government - but he won't always get his way - "On election night, Donald Trump repeated the phrase: 'Promises made, promises kept.' Now, Republicans have officially taken control of Congress and his 'promises' are a whole lot easier to keep. In Washington political parlance, it's called 'a governing trifecta', when the president's party also controls both chambers of Congress - the House of Representatives and the Senate."
• Elon Musk is a showman, not an accountant - "Put simply: Musk is the world’s wealthiest person. And he wants to remain the world’s wealthiest person. To do that, he’s got to keep up the role of the eccentric genius sidekick to Trump’s strongman in the White House."
• these are the 100 must-read books of 2024 | TIME - "Gripping novels and short stories, eye-opening histories, moving memoirs, and more. These are the books that entertained and enlightened us."
• Bluesky’s user base has doubled in the past 90 days. Is it a mass exodus from X? - "X competitor Bluesky rocketed to the No. 1 spot on the Apple App Store’s US chart this week, as many users of Elon Musk’s platform said they were decamping in the wake of his significant role in the US presidential election."
• Scientists discover the world’s largest coral - so big it can be seen from space - "It’s more than 100 feet long, at least 300 years old and visible from space. The world’s largest coral has just been discovered in the southwest Pacific Ocean."
• Huge diamond necklace linked to Marie Antoinette scandal sells for $4.8 million - "Some of the diamonds from the necklace may have come from the piece at the heart of the 'Affair of the Diamond Necklace' scandal that rocked the French court ahead of the French Revolution, according to Sotheby's."
• Lavish gold-domed penthouse in New York city on sale for $25 million - "Visitors to New York City’s famed Flatiron Building may have noticed the landmark’s lesser-known neighbor - a narrow high-rise that would be modest if not for its extravagant gold dome. Now, the 5,777-square-foot penthouse that occupies the shimmering dome (and the two-story octagonal cupola it crowns) is on sale for $25 million."
• British Museum receives donation of Chinese ceramics worth $1.27 billion - "The British Museum said on Wednesday it would receive 1,700 pieces of world-renowned Chinese ceramics worth around 1 billion pounds ($1.27 billion), in the largest donation in its nearly 300-year history. The collection, which has been on loan to the British Museum since 2009, has been donated by the Percival David Foundation."
• How to buy a Birkin bag: The HermÈs exclusivity that’s driving shoppers to sue - "That's because each store reserves the bags for a limited number of customers, and typically only those who've made enough repeat purchases."
• Mapped: Top Personal Income Tax Rates in Europe in 2024 - "European countries typically use a progressive tax system, where higher income brackets are taxed at higher rates, with the top rate applying only to income above a set threshold. These are the highest personal income tax rates of each European country."
• The 900km Amazon highway that's dividing a nation - "The BR-319 is famed as one of South America's most challenging drives, but those who attempt it are rewarded with an unfiltered experience of the Amazon that few get to see."
• Charles Manson admits to additional murders in unearthed prison phone call - "In docuseries preview, audio shows cult leader, behind 1960s killings, saying he ‘left some dead people’ in Mexico."
• Snowshoes & saunas: why Italy’s Bormio is perfect for winter sports & pampering - "The medieval Lombardy town in the Valtellina Alps will host the skiing in the 2026 Winter Olympics, but for now it’s full of under-the-radar charm."

November 13, 2024

• Cop 29 live: Trump vow to ditch Paris agreement ‘of grave concern’ to small island states - "‘Our survival is very much at risk,’ Alliance of Small Island States says, adding that ‘the US doesn’t live on a different planet’."
• the 100 most influential climate leaders in business 2024 - "TIME reveals the second annual TIME100 Climate list, featuring the 100 most influential leaders driving business to real climate action."
• Trump rolls out his most MAGA picks for new White House term - "It was a night of MAGA shock and awe that even Donald Trump’s most devoted fans might not have dreamed possible."
• Donald Trump appoints Elon Musk to 'efficiency' role & Fox News host as defence secretary - "US president-elect Donald Trump has appointed Elon Musk to jointly lead a new 'Department of Government Efficiency'."
• What White House picks tell us about Trump 2.0 - "A week after Donald Trump won a second-term in the White House, the contours of his new presidency have started taking shape. Here’s a look at what we’ve learned so far."
• Melania Trump declines to meet with Jill Biden at White House, citing Mar-a-Lago raid - "Melania Trump declined an offer to head to the White House Wednesday and meet with Jill Biden, citing the Biden administration’s raid on Mar-a-Lago as part of the federal government’s investigation into classified documents. 'Jill Biden isn’t someone Melania needs to meet,' the source added."
• MONACO’S ICONIC F1 RACE FACES UNCERTAIN FUTURE AS ROTATIONAL CALENDAR CONSIDERED - "With contracts for European venues like Monaco, Spa, Monza, Imola, and Zandvoort expiring in 2025, Formula 1’s CEO Stefano Domenicali suggested that a rotational approach may be implemented, where these traditional tracks would alternate hosting duties every other year. The possible change is driven by increasing global demand, especially from new markets in the United States and the Middle East, with recent race additions in Las Vegas, Jeddah, and Miami, among others."
• Don’t sit on the toilet for more than 10 minutes, doctors warn - "Experts warn that what they call prolonged sitting on the toilet can harm your health. It’s even been connected to an increased risk of hemorrhoids and weakened pelvic muscles."
• Seventy years on, Godzilla is the darkest monster movie ever made - "Ishirō Honda's momentous 1954 monster film was born out of a national tragedy in Japan. It has a bleak message for humanity that goes beyond cinematic spectacle."
• Lucy at 50: How the world’s most famous fossil was discovered - "Lucy, a fossilized skeleton unearthed 50 years ago this month, transformed scientists’ understanding of human evolution, offering proof that ancient hominins were able to walk upright on two feet 3.2 million years ago - a trait once thought to have evolved more recently in tandem with big brains and tool use."
• Rembrandt’s ‘The Night Watch’ is being restored & the public are invited to watch - "After five years of exhaustive research, a team of eight restorers are starting a grand preservation project on Rembrandt’s 1642 masterpiece, ‘The Night Watch’ at the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam."
• This Is the Best Cut of Beef, According to Anthony Bourdain - "The côte de boeuf. Known as the bone-in ribeye steak in the U.S., this cut has a reputation for being the ultimate beef cut, not to mention the most expensive."
• The 3 Kitchen Knives Every Home Cook Should Own, According to an Expert - "If you're going to splurge on a few good knives, make it these three: Your chef's knife is the most dramatic one in terms of its length, but the same wisdom holds true for both your paring knife and serrated knife as well. Understanding the mechanism and how it is designed to work will help you figure out which knives are best for you."
• Timothy West, star of stage, film & television, dies aged 90 - "With a career ranging from Shakespeare to EastEnders and the series Great Canal Journeys, actor was a familiar face from the 1960s onwards."
• Timothy West - a life in pictures - "The actor Timothy West has died at the age of 90. We look back at his greatest stage and screen roles, from the BBC to the Royal Shakespeare Company."

November 12, 2024

• Oil is 'gift of God' says Azerbaijan’s president at COP29 day two - "Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev has told the COP climate conference that oil, gas and other natural resources are a 'gift of God' and countries should not be blamed for having them or bringing them to the market."
• 'Man of his word': Jan 6 rioters expect Trump will keep pardon promise - "On the campaign trail, Trump repeatedly said he would pardon the rioters, whom he has called 'patriots' and 'political prisoners'."
• Tom Homan: Trump’s new ‘border czar’ who vowed to ‘run the biggest deportation’ the US has ever seen - "Once Immigration and Customs Enforcement (Ice) acting director and Heritage visiting fellow, Homan was called the ‘father’ of Trump’s family separation policy."
• Europe wants you to travel by train. But why is it so complex and expensive? - "Across the continent, flights are priced at a fraction of the cost of train tickets, hampering the growing number of people who want to travel sustainably. The big question is: why?"
• Harvard doctor reveals the scary truth about drinking too much water & why it is not always safe - "He begins by saying: 'If you think drinking a lot of water is always safe, you might want to think again.' There is a condition called water intoxication, where excess water accumulates in the brain, which can be very dangerous. Also, 'If you are exercising heavily and losing a lot of salt through sweat, drinking a large amount of water simultaneously can be risky.'"
• Gladiator II review: 'By far the best popcorn film of the year' - "Paul Mescal is the 'mesmerising centre' of Ridley Scott's long-awaited Gladiator sequel, which balances emotional drama and social themes with all-out action spectacle."
• Pompeii is limiting its daily visitor numbers - "Authorities at Pompeii in southern Italy are introducing a daily limit of 20,000 visitors as part of efforts to protect the ancient site. The measure, which will come into force from November 15, will see the introduction of personalized tickets bearing the name of each visitor, according to a statement from the Pompeii archaeological park published Friday."
• An epic croissant that's the star of a Polish parade - "The flaky, buttery, layered croissant is irrevocably tied to France, its country of origin. But every 11 November, on the Feast of St Martin, the Renaissance-era city of Poznań in western Poland comes alive with an extravaganza starring a very special horseshoe-shaped pastry; the Rogale swiętomarciński, or St Martin's croissant."
• ‘Henry VIII is a serial killer & abuser’: why is Britain still so obsessed with the Tudors? - "England has long adopted the version of events informed by the Victorians’ biases and neuroses. But what is behind the flood of 21st-century retellings, including the new TV series The Mirror and the Light?"
• Mapped: The World’s Top 20 Tallest Countries - "With an average height of 6 feet for men and 5 feet 7 inches for women, the Netherlands is the tallest country in the world. A quick look at the rankings reveal that many of the tallest countries are found in Northern and Eastern Europe."
• A coffee journey from seed to sip - "The ritual of brewing and drinking coffee is, for many of us, a small, mindful activity; one that marks the start of a new day, anchors a social interaction or gets us through a long afternoon. But how often do we reflect on how this coffee has ended up in our cups? Or consider the efforts that go into ensuring its quality by farmers on the other side of the world? Join us as we tell that story, meet some of the farmers."
• HOW TO USE CHATGPT TO CREATE A POWERPOINT PRESENTATION - "1. Add the custom bot to ChatGPT from the GPT Store. 2. Enter your prompt, along the lines of 'Make a presentation about' or 'Design a slide deck on,' followed by your topic. 3. Wait for the GPT to generate an outline. 4.Ask the GPT to do some research for statistics and case studies to include in the slides."
• How to Spot a Great Bottle of Wine for Cheap, According to an Expert - "Hankering for a drink on a dime? We asked a sommelier how they find great wine for less: 1. Shop local - 2. Know your price point - 3. Avoid wine trends - 4. Pull out the world map - 5. Explore entry-level wines - 6. Consider a wine club membership - 7. Buy wine in bulk."
• You think you’re watching smart TV ... In fact it’s watching you - "Tech giants hoover up data not just on viewing but on purchasing habits and may even have a back door into your emails - and they don’t make it easy to opt out. At the heart of this is a technology called 'automatic content recognition' (ACR) which is constantly taking snapshots from your TV screen."

November 11, 2024

• COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan: Will rich nations promise more money for climate change? - "In 2009, the world's developed nations agreed to give $100bn a year to poorer nations by 2020 to help them tackle and prepare for climate change. In the 15 years that have passed since that first goal was set, global temperatures have increased and emissions have grown - requiring trillions of dollars of investment to tackle the issue of climate change."
• Cop29 live updates: global north owes $5tn a year climate debt to global south, say campaigners - "Rich nations need to fund poorer nations to avoid burning fossil fuels and cope with severe weather events fuelled by global heating, says campaign group."
• A shadow ‘financial crisis’ has cost the world $2 trillion - "Last month, two major storms, Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton, caused a total of between $51.5 billion and $81.5 billion of property damage, mostly to Southeastern US states, according to estimates from CoreLogic. That’s a lot of damage - but it’s only a small fraction of what climate change has cost people around the world."
• Trump is already wielding power & causing massive disruption - "President-elect Donald Trump is already flexing raw power, showing he may try to subvert Washington’s checks and balances and leaving foreign leaders scrambling to come to terms with his victory."
• Bitcoin price tops $82,000 for first time amid ‘Trump pump’ - "Traders hope president-elect will favour cryptocurrencies when he returns to the White House."
• Albania: This country’s Cold War paranoia left it riddled with bunkers. Now they’re coming back to life - "Walk by the home of Albania’s former communist dictator Enver Hoxha in central Tirana and you may not even know it. There is no sign to mark its historical significance. Hoxha's Cold War paranoia led to the construction of hundreds of thousands of bunkers across the country."
• A Los Angeles mansion has become the latest ‘dark tourism’ hot spot - "A new Netflix series about Lyle and Erik Menendez, brothers who were convicted of murdering their parents Jose and Kitty in 1989, has resulted in tourists flocking to the Beverly Hills mansion where the crime took place."
• I’ve gained a whole new insight into my personality - from a cat psychiatrist - "I need my own space and have a limited tolerance for human company ... Might I actually be a moggy?"
• If robots have feelings, can we treat them as slaves? - "What if robots start to feel sad? What if that’s our fault? Academics say mankind must prepare for the possibility that AI machines may become sentient beings."
• The Lip-Reading Hotshot of Celebrity Gossip - "Jackie G goes viral with her readings of stars’ private conversations. She’s kinder about it than any of the people snooping on you."
• The 27 Club is a myth but it adds to stars’ enduring fame - "That Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Kurt Cobain and Amy Whitehouse all died at 27 was a fluke, but a study shows that it influences how well they are remembered."
• A Real Estate Queen & the Secret She Couldn’t Keep Hidden - "Alice Mason was New York City’s broker to the elite and a master at the art of hosting. One fête would alter her legacy and strain her relationship with her daughter."
• DNA From Beethoven's Hair Reveals a Surprise Nearly 200 Years Later - "One stormy Monday in March, 1827, the German composer Ludwig van Beethoven passed away after a protracted illness. Bedridden since the previous Christmas, he was attacked by jaundice, his limbs and abdomen swollen, each breath a struggle."
• The creatine conundrum: can it really help your muscles & your brain? - "Long favoured by bodybuilders and other athletes, this supplement is breaking out into the mainstream, as study after study suggests a host of benefits for our minds as well as our bodies. Are there any caveats?"
• ‘Every hammer blow makes a difference’: handcrafting whisky stills in Scotland - photo essay - "A visit to McMillan Coppersmiths in East Lothian, which makes copper pot stills and columns for the distilled spirits industry."
• Cambridge in the dark over daylight theft of historic street lamps - "Theft of historic street lamps is 'heritage crime'. Three renowned Richardson Candles have been spirited away by thieves armed with a cherry picker, strength and electrical know-how - and nobody seems to have noticed."

November 10, 2024

• Trump wins Arizona, sweeping all seven battleground states - "Trump now has what is expected to be a final total of 312 votes to Harris' 226."
• Trump ally says Ukraine focus must be peace, not territory - "A former adviser to President-elect Donald Trump says the incoming administration will focus on achieving peace in Ukraine rather than enabling the country to gain back territory occupied by Russia."
• A surreal evening at Mar-a-Lago as Team Trump gets to work - "Over cocktails and cake, and presided over by the president-elect, the Maga faithful plot their 'business-like' transition to power."
• I use these 7 prompts to unlock ChatGPT's full potential - "Same time while maximizing output: 1. Brainstorming creative ideas. 2. Learning complex topics. 3. Optimizing productivity and workflows. 4. Writing assistance. 5. Personalized recommendations. 6. Problem-solving and decision making. 7. For learning new skills."
• Tourists get a bird’s eye view of Trevi Fountain during restoration works - "Rome’s baroque Trevi Fountain opened Saturday morning with selfie-takers lining a newly installed metal walkway, as workers start the painstaking process of carefully cleaning the 18th-century masterpiece."
• I’ve skied in 170 resorts. Here are the nine things you need to know - "The ski expert Sean Newsom has been hitting the slopes for three decades, and has picked up plenty of intel along the way. He shares the most important lessons he’s learnt."
• The best business class, first class & premium economy cabins - "Ever wondered how the other half fly? We’ve tried and tested the most expensive aircraft cabins in the sky - Dom Pérignon, caviar and showers at 39,000ft included. Best of all: Etihad the Residence. Etihad’s the Residence is comprised of three rooms."
• I Went Birding With the World’s First AI-Powered Binoculars - "Swarovski Optik’s new AX Visio binoculars use image-recognition algorithms and GPS data to discern the species of whatever bird you point them at. And they work anywhere in the world."
• Is there any point in drinking decaf coffee? - "Normal caffeinated coffee has reams of health benefits. So is there any reason to go decaf? Little to no caffeine: Forgoing caffeine allows consumers to stay hydrated while keeping blood pressure in check, potentially helping improve sleep and alleviating anxiety. Antioxidants: Like regular coffee, decaf contains lots of antioxidants that improve cellular health."
• F.P. Journe's Most Complicated Creation Is An Easy-Wearing Tool Watch - "The Astronomic Souveraine has its eyes on the stars but remains firmly down-to-earth."
• Phillips just set a record for the most expensive F.P. Journe watch ever sold at auction for over $8.3 million - "It also sets the record for the most expensive watch ever sold at auction by a living independent watchmaker—eclipsing the previous record-holder, Philippe Dufour."
• The Ongoing Saga Of The ‘Superbia Humanitatis’, The World’s Most Complicated Wristwatch - "The Superbia Humanitatis watch created by Louis-Elysée Piguet, Franck Muller, and Paul Gerber."
• PATEK PHILIPPE REF. 1518: THE COMPLETE GUIDE - "In total, 281 Patek 1518s are said to have been produced between 1941 and 1954: 4 stainless steel models are known to exist, less than 60 in pink gold, and the rest are supposedly yellow gold."

November 9, 2024

• Donald Trump Ally Suggests Trying to Purchase Greenland Again - "Georgia Representative Mike Collins, a staunch ally of President-elect Donald Trump, has appeared to float the idea of the United States once again trying to purchase Greenland."
• Elon Elon Musk joined Trump-Zelensky call amid concerns for future of Ukraine war - "Trump was with Musk at Mar-a-Lago when Zelensky called to congratulate the president-elect for what a source briefed on the call described as a positive and cordial conversation. Trump put the call on speaker and Zelensky thanked Musk for his help with providing communications through Starlink to Ukraine in the ongoing war with Russia. The call was roughly seven minutes long."
• Trump just made $500 million with a single Truth Social post - "Trump is the company’s single largest shareholder, and his 114.75 million shares are now worth about $3.7 billion. That’s up from $3.2 billion at Friday’s market open."
• An AI robot created this portrait of Alan Turing. And it just sold for $1.08 million - "Eight decades after Turing predicted the rise of computers and AI, British gallerist Aidan Meller hopes that Ai-Da, a humanoid robot artist, and its artworks can act as a 'kind of mirror to where we’re going.'"
• Independent Russian watchmaker upends race to design world’s thinnest wristwatch - "In recent years, the giants of European horology have been locked in a heated battle to design the world’s thinnest mechanical watch. Luxury brands Bulgari, Piaget and Richard Mille have all, since 2018, held the coveted record, which was most recently broken by Bulgari’s sleek 1.7-millimeter-thick Octo Finissimo Ultra Mark II, in April."
• Airline lost your bag? Tracking it might be about to get easier - "Travelers using Apple AirTags may be able to give third-party access to tracking information in the future - allowing airports and airlines to hunt for bags in real time."
• A unique way to see a hidden side of Venice - "Smaller than gondolas, 'sandoli' are ancient boats that have been used by everyday Venetians for centuries. Today, they whisk travellers to quiet corners Venice where other boats can't go."
• Ranked: Top 10 Countries by Value of All Their Natural Resources - "This visualization shows the top 10 countries by the value of all their combined natural resources, from oil to gold."
• How to permanently erase data on hard drives, SSDs, & flash drives - "Time and again, cases are reported in which disposed hard drives still contained readable, confidential data. With a few Windows commands and the right tools, this won't happen to you."
• 10 HBO Shows That Are Perfect From Start to Finish - "10 'The Wire' (2002-2008). 9 'Veep' (2012-2019). 8 'Sex and the City' (1998-2004). 7 'Band of Brothers'. 6 'Silicon Valley' (2014-2019). 5 'The Sopranos' (1999-2007). 4 'Game of Thrones' (2011-2019). 3 'Succession' (2018-2023). 2 ‘The Leftovers’ (2014-2017). 1 ‘Barry’ (2018-2023)."
• The 7 Best Hoka Walking Shoes, According to Podiatrists & Shape Testers - "These sneaks are designed for comfort and support. The 7 Best Hoka Walking Shoes, According to Podiatrists and Shape Testers ... the top of this list is the brand's legendary pillowy soft support."

November 8, 2024

• Trump’s master plan for a radical reformation of the US government - "President-elect Donald Trump has promised to completely remake the US government and wield new power as president. The ambitious promises, if enacted, would transform society."
• Trump's revenge list - "Trump has sworn he'll get revenge on a long list of enemies... so who will be first in the firing line?"
• This year set to be first to breach 1.5C global warming limit - "It is now 'virtually certain' that 2024 - a year punctuated by intense heatwaves and deadly storms - will be the world's warmest on record, according to projections by the European climate service."
• The celebrities whose jet pollution is 500 times the average person’s - "Researchers analysing celebrities’ private aviation found most flights were taken for leisure - and there was a spike for the UN climate conference. The average person globally has a carbon footprint of 4.3 tonnes of CO2, meaning the celebrities' jet emissions alone were 558 times as high."
• Trump presidency could reignite Prince Harry visa row - "Foundation fighting for the release of the duke’s immigration records says the US election result is ‘game-changing’. Prince Harry will 'very likely be held to account' by Donald Trump if he lied about drug use on his visa application, a foundation fighting for the release of his immigration records has said. The duke’s application to live in the United States came under scrutiny after he admitted in his 2023 memoir, Spare, to using drugs - something he would have been required to disclose in immigration documents."
• Mysterious 400-year-old ‘vampire’ woman comes back to life with facial reconstruction - "Based on a model of her skull and information from extracted DNA, researchers have recreated the face of a woman buried in an unusual grave in Pień, a village in northern Poland, in the 1600s."
• ‘Very rare’ 77-year-old piece of cake from Queen Elizabeth & Prince Philip’s wedding sells for $2,800 - "The cake, which no longer looks edible, survived for almost eight decades since the wedding day on November 20, 1947."
• Pompeii victims aren't who we thought they were, DNA analysis reveals - "An ancient-DNA analysis of victims in Pompeii who died in Mount Vesuvius' eruption reveals some unusual relations between the people who died together."
• Norway’s Svalbard is one of the remotest places on Earth - "What life is like in one of the most remote places on Earth. Deep within the Arctic Circle, pocketed between giant glaciers and beneath polar ice floes, Swedish photographer and content creator Cecilia Blomdahl found extraordinary warmth."
• Tired? Here’s How to Know if You’re Sleep Deprived - "The time change can leave you yawning the next day. But for many Americans, sleep deprivation is a year-round problem."
• What salt, sugar, red meat & alcohol really do to your body - "We know they’re not good for us, but what’s the latest science on their impact on our health?"
• Why Sitting All Day May Shorten Your Life - "Spending too much time in a chair can unravel your fitness goals and make you feel older. Here’s how to counteract it."
• Want to lower your blood pressure? Try 5 more minutes of exercise - "Just five more minutes of exercise doesn’t sound so bad, right? Especially when such a small amount may improve your blood pressure, according to a new study."
• 8 Factors That Can Raise Your Heart Disease Risk - "Doctors are thinking differently about what drives cardiovascular issues. It’s no longer just about blood pressure and cholesterol."
• The Substance to Gladiator II: The 10 films getting the biggest early Oscar buzz - "These are the films generating the most excitement ahead of awards season, from Demi Moore's body-horror comeback to the return of Ridley Scott's swords-and-sandals epic."
• You Might Be Storing Cheese All Wrong - "These expert tips will help you keep those blocks for longer, and use up any odds and ends that linger: The cheese and produce drawers of your fridge are best at keeping cheese humid and cool. But, to avoid your mild Jack tasting like a burly Stilton, don't toss them into the same container. And besides, 'if you keep all your cheese near one another, spots of mold will happen faster,' Ms. James said."
• How to Hand-Wash All Your Clothes - "Even the most delicate fabrics can often be treated at home, rather than dry-cleaned, and it doesn’t have to be a hassle."
• New Design Claims To Age Wine By Up To 4 Years In The Glass - "Developed over eight years, the design features directional fins inspired by turbine engines, offering precise aeration control, softening tannins and enhancing flavor with every swirl. The Denver & Liely wine glass is set to debut in the coming months, offering wine enthusiasts a new way to elevate their tasting experience."
• Key to a Better Golf Swing? Loosen Up Your Spine - "By increasing the mobility of your upper back, you can both prevent injury and improve your game."

November 7, 2024

• Trump thinks presidents have near-total power - "There will be little to stop him in his second term."
• The view from countries where Trump's win really matters - "His so-called America First foreign policy could see a withdrawal of US involvement in areas of conflict around the world. Five BBC correspondents assess the effect it could have where they are."
• ‘A wrecking ball’: experts warn Trump’s win sets back global climate action - "Election of a ‘climate denier’ to US presidency poses ‘major threat to the planet’, environmentalists say."
• Seven things Trump says he will do as president - "Donald Trump is set to return to the White House, having promised action on issues including immigration, the economy and the war in Ukraine."
• DOJ moving to wind down Trump criminal cases before he takes office - "The step complies with long-standing Justice Department policy that a sitting president can't be prosecuted, two people familiar with the matter told NBC News."
• She’s back! Inside the mind of Melania Trump - "The first lady was so inscrutable that Ivanka Trump called her The Portrait. Yet the power she wields doesn't require words."
• Elon Musk Helped Elect Trump. What Does He Expect in Return? - "The world’s richest man gave his money and time in campaigning for the president-elect and now is putting in his requests for a friendlier regulatory environment."
• Where Harris’ campaign went wrong - "A country crying out for change got a candidate who, at a crucial moment as more voters were tuning in, decided to soft-pedal the change she knew she represented."
• Trump’s victory adds record $64bn to wealth of richest top 10 - "Share surge increases Elon Musk’s fortune by $26bn in a day as Jeff Bezos, Sergey Brin and Bill Gates also benefit."
• The Richest Family in the World Heads a Massive U.S. Chain - "The Waltons are not only at the top of the list of America's richest families, but they also dominate the rest of the globe. The family's net worth of almost $350 billion is thanks to the multigenerational 'family' business, Walmart."
• I spent the weekend with ChatGPT Search - goodbye, Google - "Here's why it's worth switching. OpenAI unveiled its search engine, SearchGPT, inside its ChatGPT artificial intelligence platform last week. Since then, the company has rolled out a Chrome plug-in that makes it your default search engine, so I spent the entire weekend using just ChatGPT for search."
• Cliffside cafÉ in China serves death-defying $56 coffee with a view of Taiwan - "Gushi Cliff Coffee - which opened on October 1, the first day of China’s 'Golden Week' holiday - has sparked a buzz on Chinese social media. For the $56 package, customers will get insurance, safety gear rental, a drink, a coach to guide them and a 'unique filming experience', according to Xue. The whole experience lasts about 80 minutes."
• The skyscrapers where nobody lives - "At the eastern edge of Germany’s Black Forest, just outside the medieval town of Rottweil, a peculiar structure - a skyscraper where nobody lives - dominates the land. It’s called TK Elevator Testturm, and at a height of 807 feet, it’s among the country’s tallest buildings."
• A journey 400,000 years back in human history - "Nestled in Germany's picturesque Neander Valley where Neanderthals were first discovered, a museum is tapping into our growing fascination with our long-lost relatives."

November 6, 2024

• Donald Trump sweeps to victory in historic comeback - "Donald Trump has won the US election and will make a historic return to the White House. The Republican told jubilant crowds in Florida: 'America has given us an unprecedented and powerful mandate'."
• US election results 2024 live: Trump closes in on victory - "Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump each need at least 270 electoral votes to win the presidency."
• Here’s what Trump is proposing for the economy - "President-elect Donald Trump on the campaign trail laid out a broad array of ideas aimed at making life more affordable and strengthening the economy, which rank at the top of voters’ concerns. Here’s what you need to know about what Trump has said he’ll do to address the economy."
• What Trump's win means for Ukraine, Middle East & China - "Donald Trump’s return to the White House is set to reshape US foreign policy, promising potentially radical shifts on multiple fronts as war and uncertainty grip parts of the world."
• What happens to Trump’s criminal & civil cases now that he’s been reelected - "Donald Trump has been reelected to the White House as a convicted felon who is awaiting sentencing in his hush money case in New York and still working to stave off prosecution in other state and federal cases."
• Waiting & watch parties: US election 2024 photos of the night - "The best images as results come in from the tightly contested race between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, and from the elections that will determine the balance of power in Congress."
• 15 Unwritten Rules to Know Before Visiting New York City - "How to avoid looking like a tourist in New York City, according to the editors of Condé Nast Traveler."
• 9 Foods You Might Think Are High in Protein, but Actually Aren’t - "Consider them helpful sidekicks to reach your daily goal: 1. Peanut Butter - 2. Chia Seeds - 3. Pistachios - 4. Quinoa - 5. Eggs - 6. Chickpeas - 7. Yogurt - 8. Brussels Sprouts - 9. Bone Broth."
• A Chanel runway show that speaks volumes about the luxury market - "Chanel presented its Cruise 2024-2025 collection in Hong Kong on Tuesday, with a mix of light tweed suits, chic diving hoods and summery white dresses. Cruise collections are ready-to-wear lines that labels typically unveil between the fashion calendar’s two main seasons (Fall-Winter and Spring-Summer). Dating back to the 1960s, these resort collections were traditionally aimed at wealthy customers, who would take off to warmer climates during the winter months."
• Nordhavn: The Danish 'city' that's been designed for an easy life - "Copenhagen's once-industrial port has been planned to make everything - from schools and play areas to businesses and recreational spaces - accessible within five minutes."
• Solving the true age of Cassius, the world’s largest captive crocodile who died last week - "George Craig looked after the 5.5-metre croc for decades. But after the keeper retired from the park, Cassius stopped eating and went into ‘very quick decline’."
• When filler removal goes wrong: ‘My lips & cheeks caved in’ - "The trend for ‘duck lips’ is over and many people are seeking to reverse their cosmetic treatments - often with painful and disfiguring results."
• Eliminating Kitchen Clutter Has Never Looked More Stylish - "Some of the biggest offenders tend to be small appliances like coffee makers and toasters. Designers are creating new ways to maximize space."

November 5, 2024

• It’s Election Day in America - "Americans are heading to the polls to vote for their next president. Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump each need at least 270 electoral votes to win. The battleground states of Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin are expected to be pivotal to the path to victory."
• Live: Election day voting begins in US with Trump & Harris neck & neck in polls - "Harris has advocated for abortion rights and pledged to lower food and housing costs for working families. Trump has vowed to seal the border and has proposed tax cuts worth trillions."
• In pictures: America votes in the 2024 election - "Voters are heading to the polls Tuesday to cast their ballots in a historic presidential race that could profoundly change the country and the world. Polls nationally and in the vital swing states show no clear leader, reflecting a country that is polarized just as sharply as when the race started."
• Donald & Melania Trump Were Made for Each Other - "The former first lady's new book shows that she still doesn't care."
• 100-Point Champagne Wine Finds A Perfect Balance Blending Three Outstanding Vintages - "Last year, the recently released Laurent-Perrier Grand Siècle Itération N.26 was given a 100-point score by world-renowned wine critic James Suckling, and he also named it his 'Wine of the Year' out of a selection of 39,000 bottles."
• Posh olives & expensive workouts? You may have lifestyle creep - "It starts with artisan bread and M&S cashmere. Then before you know it you’re a wine snob with a personal trainer. Here are the signs."
• People Who Move From Poor To Rich Share These 15 Success Habits - "Recent studies reveal that many wealthy individuals have built their fortunes from modest beginnings. Their journeys unveil a fascinating pattern of habits and mindsets transforming their financial trajectories. While each path to wealth is unique, successful individuals often share standard practices that drive wealth creation. These habits and mindsets form the foundation of their financial success, enabling them to overcome barriers and achieve prosperity."
• The Healthiest Bread Types, According to Dietitians & Food Experts - "Plus, what to look out for at the store."
• 6 Nutrients to Help Build Muscle That Aren’t Protein, According to Dietitians - "Building muscle isn’t all about protein. These nutrients can grow your muscles, too!"
• How To Replace Google With ChatGPT Search In Your Browser - "1. Open Chrome Settings. 2. Select Search Engine from the left-hand menu. 3. Click Manage search engines and site search. 4. Under Site Search, click Add. 5. Change the name to 'ChatGPT' (without the quote marks). 6. Change the shortcut to '@chatgpt' or a shortcut of your choice. 7. Change the URL to 'https://chatgpt.com/?q=%s.' and then click Add."
• I’ve streamed 44 shows so far in 2024 - here’s the 7 best & 7 worst - "These are the best and worst TV shows of 2024 so far."
• Air fryers among ‘smart device spies’ trying to record you - "Are you under surveillance in your own home? Research by Which? suggests that smart TVs, watches and speakers could be sending your data to China."
• Why Are People Still Buying Ripped Jeans? - "A reader wonders if ripped jeans will ever go out of style. Our fashion critic offers insight into the future of distressed denim."

November 4, 2024

• Trump offers darkness, Harris offers optimism on election eve in America - "Ex-President Donald Trump is darkening what is already the most dystopian closing argument in modern American history and flinging new and baseless claims that Democrats are cheating."
• Why these are the five (or six) states to watch on election night - "The only thing that matters is getting to 270 electoral votes through the Electoral College. This year, if you know the winner(s) in these five states - Georgia, Michigan, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, and perhaps a sixth, Arizona - you’ll know which candidate has gotten there."
• Cans of Lake Como air on sale for €10 to tourists - "Now locals are aghast at an unlikely new piece of tourist tat: sealed cans containing Lake Como air. The 400ml empty containers are being sold for €10 at two locations in Como - a bookshop and a restaurant - as well as in Menaggio and Lenno, popular destinations on the lake."
• Why the wealthy can’t resist a waterfront home on Lake Como - "Italy’s most glamorous lake has been a magnet for the rich for centuries. Prices for the most expensive properties increased by almost 20 per cent last year."
• 10 Books Rich People Read That Poor People Never Open - "A study tracking the habits of 233 millionaires revealed one stark difference between them and most other people: 88% of wealthy people love reading for self-improvement. Lower-income people (those with an annual income of $35,000 or less and a liquid net worth of $5,000 or less) primarily read for entertainment. The contrast isn’t just academic - it directly impacts wealth creation."
• How Long Does It Take to Walk 10,000 Steps? - "All you need to know about setting aside time to meet this common goal. If you walk a 15-minute mile, it'll take you 75 minutes to cover 10,000 steps, and if you walk a 30-minute mile, it'll take you 150 minutes (or 2.5 hours) to cover those 10,000 steps."
• Here’s Why People in Blue Zones Live the Longest, According to Longevity Experts - "Blue zones are cities that have been historically known to host the largest population of centenarians, aka people who live to 100. We can learn a thing or two from their long and healthy lives."
• People living to 100 all eat same superfood & it makes up 67% of their diet - "People living on a small island off Japan have seen a huge number of residents living past 100 and there's one food they eat more than any other."
• why sitting all day may shorten your life - "Spending too much time in a chair can unravel your fitness goals and make you feel older. Here’s how to counteract it. Put simply, uninterrupted sitting is bad for your heart, joints, muscles, metabolism and mental health. The American Heart Association notes that prolonged sitting raises the risk of developing heart disease or stroke, even for those who exercise regularly."
• The best noir movies to watch this Noirvember - "All-time-great noirs, under-the-radar gems, and everything in between: Mildred Pierce - Rebecca - Strangers on a Train - The Third Man - The Asphalt Jungle - Out of the Past - Key Largo - The Long Goodbye - Chinatown - Miller's Crossing."
• How horror films made us petrified of clowns - from Pennywise to the Joker - "It’s no joke - a study suggests the clown sub-genre is at an all-time high with 97 films in the 2010s and a similar number projected this decade. With their broad smiles, red noses and fondness for jokes, clowns are meant to be figures of jollity or at least anarchic fun."
• To Join This Club, a Member Must Die & You Must Adore Verdi - "Based in Parma, Club dei 27 is so exclusive that it’s given rise to all sorts of myths. But it’s really about venerating the famous opera composer born near the Italian city."
• How Timex has sold $1 watches for 170 years - "Timex isn’t usually a brand to make headlines. For decades, it’s felt like the quintessential watch brand next door who you’d turn to for any watch that’s as well-built as it is affordable. Between the simple dials, luxury homages, and digital sports watches, Timex does it all and it does it cheaper than most."
• The 4 Best Espresso Machines for the Perfect Cup - "These high-octane espresso machines by names like La Marzocco and Sanremo turn your kitchen counter into everyone's favorite coffee stop."
• How the Moleskine Notebook became an essential creative tool - "A new history by Roland Allen uncovers the wealth of ideas and invention hidden in the notebooks of Herman Melville, Agatha Christie, Mark Twain and other luminaries."
• Quincy Jones, giant of US music, has died aged 91 - "Quincy Jones, musician and producer who worked with Michael Jackson, Frank Sinatra and many others, has died at the age of 91."

November 3, 2024

• How Donald Trump is laying the groundwork to dispute the election results - again - "Donald Trump is re-using his 2020 playbook to baselessly claim the 2024 election is being stolen from him and is being joined by allies with big megaphones amplifying his falsehoods ahead of Election Day."
• How Donald Trump Replaced ‘the Protestant Pope’ - "Billy Graham towered over American evangelicalism for 50 years. Now the fight is on to own his legacy."
• Location of world leaders including Putin, Trump & Macron revealed by bodyguards' Strava app - "The French presidential office has now told security agents to not use the fitness app. Some of the world’s most prominent leaders’ movements were tracked online through a fitness app used by their bodyguards, an investigation has suggested."
• Revealed: the property empires that make Charles & William millions - "The Sunday Times has uncovered every plot of land owned by the ancient Duchies of Lancaster and Cornwall and the business deals with the NHS, schools and military that help fund the royals."
• Oscars 2025: The 12 Leading Contenders for Best Picture - "As award season heats up, here are a dozen movies that could take the big prize - and how they might do it."
• Michael Caine at 91 - in his own words - "From Alfie to Zulu, the actor reveals all in an exclusive extract from his new memoir."
• Nicky Haslam: I know Meghan’s ghastly but she’s got guts - "With the release of his perennially bitchy 'what I find common' tea towel, the interior designer is still showing his claws at 85 ... but putting the boot into rescue dogs?"
• Is Eating One Meal a Day (OMAD) a Safe & Effective Way to Lose Weight? - "Eating one meal a day may be a popular way to lose weight, but it's likely not a good idea for overall health. Limiting intake to one meal per day can also lead to disordered eating tendencies, affect a person's social life, and be extremely difficult for most people to stick to."
• The Best Smart Rings to Rule Them All - "A svelte smart ring can track important health metrics and doesn't need to be charged every day. The Oura is the best sleep tracker, one of the best fitness trackers, and the best smart ring for most folks."
• Why do people play golf? James Bond’s perfect 90-second explanation - "Sean Connery' sums up golf in one perfect, 90-second answer: 'Well, if you play golf, you can’t think honestly or do anything else when you’re playing,' he says. That’s a good start: golf is intentionally immersive in a way few things in the modern world are set up to be."
• Bored of Cold Brew? Try an Espresso Tonic - "The rising trend for espresso tonics is easily explained: they're refreshing, but with just the right amount of kick."
• The espresso martini has nothing on these 2 drinks - "It is just as easy - if more time intensive - to make your own cold brew as it is to make hot coffee. On the other side of the time it takes lies the reward of a smooth, nuanced drink with less acidity and bitterness than its hot-brewed counterpart."
• How to Make an Autumn Negroni, the Bold Cocktail That’ll Warm You Up Like a Fall Sweater - "A drink originating from Chicago's legendary bar the Violet Hour. The Autumn Negroni is, like a normal Negroni, made of gin, sweet vermouth and Campari, but then also adds Cynar, Fernet Branca, Orange Bitters, and Peychaud’s Bitters."
• Is sparkling water good for you? Dietitians share benefits & healthiest types - "Sparkling water is more popular than ever, but there are some things you'll want to keep in mind when reaching for this fizzy drink. Yes, sparkling water is healthy, the experts note. 'Water itself is 'healthy' ... we need it to survive and to optimize our health,' says Zumpano. Sparkling water, like regular still water, contains the base of H2O, the 'essential element for hydration,' says Derocha."

November 2, 2024

• CNN’s Road to 270 Interactive - "How the electoral map is looking for Harris and Trump. It takes at least 270 electoral votes to win the presidency. Plot each candidate’s best path to victory on our interactive map."
• What happens to Trump’s November sentencing? - "Donald Trump has several legal tactics to try to stay out of state prison, but his best chance of success turns on the outcome of the presidential election."
• Jeffrey Epstein details close relationship with Trump in newly released tapes - "Recordings from 2017 reveal Epstein talking for some ‘100 hours’ about the ex-president, journalist Michael Wolff says."
• 33 pivotal US presidential moments captured on camera - "From the intimate to the infamous, these pictures of US commanders-in-chief (and a few also-rans) capture moments of tragedy and hope at the heart of the White House."
• Oprah just dropped her list of Favorite Things. Here’s what we’re shopping - "The start of the holiday gifting season is practically tied to the release of Oprah’s Favorite Things list, and she just unveiled her go-to picks for the 2024 edition. Like every year, her list draws selections across shopping categories like beauty, home goods, skin care, fashion and more. This year, Oprah’s Favorite Things list features 116 different items."
• how farm subsidies wrecked Europe’s landscapes - "The steep and stark environmental decline was not supposed to happen under the common agricultural policy."
• If You'd Invested $1,000 in Apple Stock 10 Years Ago, Here's How Much You'd Have Today - "Thanks to the combination of capital appreciation for the stock and cash returned directly to shareholders through dividend payments, Apple has delivered a total return of 885% over the last decade. That means that a $1,000 investment in the tech giant in late 2014 would now be worth almost $10,000."
• I just tested new Siri vs Old Siri: How smart is Apple Intelligence? - "Bottom line. The new Siri is simply better at maintaining context and providing more accurate info when you have follow-up questions. I also appreciate that it can continue listening without you have to press a button on your iPhone."
• The 'bias machine': How Google tells you what you want to hear - "'We're at the mercy of Google.' Undecided voters in the US who turn to Google may see dramatically different views of the world - even when they're asking the exact same question."
• La Dolce Vita Orient Express: Eat your way around Italy in style - "New details have been teased about the hotly anticipated La Dolce Vita Orient Express train and the upcoming Orient Express hotels in Rome and Venice, the first for the relaunched brand."
• Collins Dictionary’s word of the year is a confident, messy way of life - "The dictionary credited British singer Charli XCX with making 'brat' one of the most talked-about words in 2024. According to the singer, a brat is 'that girl who is a little messy and likes to party and maybe says some dumb things some times.'"
• Which Credit Cards Offer Airport Lounge Access for Free? - "Play your cards right and you could get this luxury perk for free."
• MONACO PUSHES FORWARD TO EXIT FATF “GREY LIST” WITH FULL MOBILISATION AGAINST MONEY LAUNDERING & CORRUPTION - "The grey list status, which indicates heightened monitoring, underscores the FATF’s call for Monaco to intensify its actions in preventing financial crimes."
• The changing face of Mongolia - "It's home to vast, open steppes and an ancient nomadic culture, but as the nation rapidly urbanises, can the landlocked nation hold onto its roots?"
• Six of the best winter mountain breaks in Europe - "From the Arctic Circle to Slovenia’s Julian Alps, we pick scenic and soothing retreats to don snowshoes, ski empty pistes and tune into winter."

November 1, 2024

• Climate Change Is Making Disasters Deadlier. Here’s How Much - "More than half a million people were killed in 10 disasters that climate change worsened, according to a new report."
• What’s at stake on Tuesday? The planet - "'Everybody complains about the weather, but no one does anything about it,' Mark Twain used to quip, back when humans had only just begun digging fossil fuel out of the ground and burning it for energy."
• Parts of Spain appear to merge with the sea after historic rain in before-&-after images - "The deadly flooding that rocked Spain this week following intense, historic rainfall is so expansive and severe the area looked like an inland sea from space. A year’s worth of rain fell in just hours in east-central Spain Tuesday, creating a surge of floodwater that broke the banks of rivers, turned streets into raging rapids and washed away cars and bridges."
• Israel plans to use lasers to shoot down incoming missiles - "Israel expects its 'Iron Beam' laser defense system to be operational within one year, saying it will bring 'a new era of warfare' as it engages in a war of drones and missiles with Iran and its regional partners."
• ‘Horizon’ plane’s innovative shape promises greener flights & added comfort - "San Diego-based Natilus has joined the race with Horizon, a blended wing aircraft that is also meant to carry about 200 passengers while producing half the emissions and using 30% less fuel than current Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 aircraft - the models it’s aiming to compete with."
• Unruly passengers were a problem before the pandemic. Now they’re even worse - "IATA classifies unruly behavior incidents into four levels. Level 1 is 'minor' (IATA’s 'Cabin Operations Safety Best Practice Manual' suggests this could be argumentative behavior or non-compliance with safety regulations). Level 2 is 'moderate' (physically aggressive behavior, for example). Level 3 is 'serious' (i.e. dangerous behavior, an 'intent or threat to injure,' as IATA puts it). Level 4 is 'flight deck breach' (which IATA classifies as 'credible threat of death')."
• The ancient UNESCO-listed city that’s considered the cradle of Thai culture - "Sukhothai was the first capital of the Kingdom of Siam, in the 13th and 14th centuries. Today, its impressive Buddhist monasteries can be explored in Thailand's Sukhothai Historical Park."
• What does your job say about you? Scientists say stereotypes are true - "From lorry drivers and sales people to musicians and accountants, the typical image we have of people in these professions is often ‘quite accurate’."
• I had all my teeth removed & replaced with £8,000 'Turkey teeth' - "'I was swollen and bruised but it was worth it'."
• How To Drink An Espresso Like An Italian Pro - "Focus on differentiating each one, which can range from floral and fruity to bold, nutty, and dark chocolate-like (don't sweat if you can't tell many flavor notes right away, it'll take time). And don't rush the ending, because a good espresso will leave a nice aftertaste. Take your time to savor it!"
• Wicked to Gladiator II: 12 of the best films to watch this November - "From the big-screen debut of a musical theatre classic to the long-awaited sequel to Ridley Scott's Roman epic, these are the films to see this month."
• The New Mac Mini Is Amazing, Now Go & Buy the Old One - "The M4 Mac Mini is smaller and faster, with a new cooling system, more ports, and the same $600 price tag as the outgoing model."
• iOS 18.1: What You Get If You Don't Have an iPhone With Apple Intelligence - "iOS 18.1 is the first iOS 18 update with Apple Intelligence capabilities, and that's what a lot of the coverage about the new software has focused on. If you don't have an iPhone that's capable of Apple Intelligence, you're probably wondering just what's in the update for you. While Apple Intelligence does make up the bulk of what's new, if you have an older device, you still get some solid improvements."
• How to activate Apple Intelligence on your iPhone, iPad & Mac now - "Master Apple Intelligence setup on every device: Head to Settings, then tap Apple Intelligence & Siri. You'll see an option to 'Join the Apple Intelligence Waiting List.' Once joined, you'll receive a notification when the features are ready to activate on your device. The system will then download the necessary on-device AI features."

October 31, 2024

• THE BEST INVENTIONS OF 2024 | TIME - "200 innovations changing how we live."
• Why do we find scary pranks funny? - "The theory that humour and fear are closely connected in the brain has been investigated by academics."
• Five of the most haunted places in Britain - "Every country has its ghost stories, its mythical monsters and its ghoulish urban legends. But the United Kingdom - the home of the Gothic novel and the birthplace of paranormal investigation - may stake a claim to being the most haunted country on Earth."
• How very dare you! The wittiest insults & rudest put-downs ever - "Whatever happened to the fabulously rude put-down? In a new book Jon Connell uncovers some of the best."
• What to know about Diwali, the Festival of Lights - "More than a billion Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists around the world are celebrating Diwali, the festival of lights. Diwali, also called Deepavali, is one of the biggest festivals in India. It’s also widely celebrated in Nepal, Malaysia, Fiji and other countries with large South Asian diasporas."
• Is your smartphone being tracked? Here’s how to tell - "An expert in digital forensics and family violence says surveillance by spyware is rare - more often it happens via everyday features such as location sharing."
• Google's new AI course will teach you to write more effective prompts - in 5 steps - "The self-paced 'Prompting Essentials' course requires no previous experience and is available now. You also receive a certificate you can share on LinkedIn."

October 30, 2024

• How X users can earn thousands from US election misinformation & AI images - "The BBC identified networks of dozens of accounts that re-share each other's content multiple times a day - including a mix of true, unfounded, false and faked material - to boost their reach, and therefore, revenue on the site."
• Sweden & Norway rethink cashless society plans over Russia security fears - "Rise in hybrid warfare and cyber-attacks blamed on pro-Russia groups prompt Nordic neighbours to backpedal."
• Russian court fines Google $20,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000 - "Don't hold your breath Putin. A Russian court has ruled that Google owes Russian media stations around $20 decillion in fines for blocking their content, and the fines could get bigger."
• The world needs $700bn a year to restore nature. But where is the money coming from? - "Representatives from nearly 200 countries at the UN’s Cop16 summit in Colombia have yet to break the deadlock over who pays and how much."
• Record levels of heat-related deaths in 2023 due to climate crisis, report finds - "Almost half of global land area saw extreme drought for at least one month, according to Lancet Countdown."
• Mount Fuji snowless for longest time on record after sweltering Japan summer - "As of 29 October, the iconic mountain was still without snow, marking the longest period since records began 130 years ago."
• The World’s Doomsday Plant Vault Gets Thousands of New Seeds - "A storage facility in Norway built to safeguard crop diversity recently received more than 30,000 samples as concerns grow about climate change and food insecurity."
• Why You Might Need Two COVID-19 Shots This Season - "Seniors and people who are immunocompromised should get not just one but two COVID-19 shots this respiratory virus season. That's the new recommendation from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)."
• Teri Garr, star of ‘Young Frankenstein’ &‘Tootsie,’ dead at 79 - "Teri Garr died Tuesday in Los Angeles, more than twenty years after she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, her manger Marc Gurvitz told CNN."
• Lisa Kudrow pays tribute to Friends mother Teri Garr - "Lisa Kudrow has led the tributes to Oscar-nominated actress Teri Garr, who played her estranged birth mother in Friends."
• I found an amazing new use for ChatGPT Advanced Voice Mode - "ChatGPT Advanced Voice Mode is available in Europe, and I've used it during a musem visit. It wasn't perfect, but it's a great start."
• ‘It knocks your head off!’ How limoncello became a sudden, surprising, soaring success - "The liqueur has gone from being an occasional digestif, served in shot form, to a ubiquitous spritz popular in bars and restaurants from Adelaide to Athens. What’s behind the overnight rise of a decades-old drink?"
• Alcohol consumption abundant in the natural world, study finds - "Range of species have ethanol in diet, normally arising through fermented fruits, sap and nectar."
• Do YOU wake up at 3am every night? Science guru reveals why so many people do... & how to beat the problem - "If you're a victim of disturbed sleep, you could be in luck. For one science guru believes he may have solved the mystery. Dave Asprey, an author and longevity influencer, has claimed that fluctuating blood sugar - or glucose - levels are to blame."
• How Do You Manage Jet Lag On Long-Haul Flights? - "A former Qantas pilot has recently shared his top tips for managing jet lag on long-haul flights with 9Travel Australia."
• Batman who? Why The Penguin is TV’s biggest surprise of the year - "Colin Farrell’s show-stopping turn, and a scene-stealing Cristin Milioti, make this DC crime series an unlikely winner."
• Giuliani’s book is silent on $150m award for defamation but noisy on election lies - "Disgraced and disbarred former NYC mayor and Trump lawyer also says Biden administration is persecuting him."

October 29, 2024

• World Stroke Day - "Leading global action on stroke." Observed on October 29 to underscore the serious nature and high rates of stroke, raise awareness of the prevention and treatment of the condition, and ensure better care and support for survivors.
• iOS 18.1 Is Out & It Brings Apple Intelligence to Some iPhones - "This update introduces some new features and fixes to many iPhones. The update also brings a few Apple Intelligence features to people outside the EU and China and who have an iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, as well as the iPhone 16 lineup."
• I tried all new Apple Intelligence features in iOS 18.1 - here’s the best (& worst) - "The features for you to try (or avoid) once you download iOS 18.1."
• Mapped: Carbon Emissions Per Capita, by Country - "The global average for per-capita consumption-based emissions is 4.7 tCO₂. These are the places that emit more and less carbon."
• Top 10 Greenest Countries - "According to the latest rankings, Denmark has emerged as the greenest country globally, thanks to its robust environmental policies and commitment to renewable energy. Following closely are the United Kingdom and Finland, both known for their sustainable practices and high environmental standards."
• Elon Musk is sharing some details about his immigration path. Experts say they still have questions - "The billionaire tech tycoon opened up about some of it over the weekend in a series of posts on the platform he owns, X, hours after the Washington Post reported that Musk began his career working illegally in the US when he was building a Silicon Valley startup in the 1990s."
• Jeff Bezos defends Washington Post non-endorsement after subscribers flee & staffers resign - "The Washington Post owner Jeff Bezos, in his first public comments since igniting uproar last week over his decision to withhold the venerable newspaper’s endorsement in the presidential race, defended the move in a rare op-ed published Monday evening by the Post."
• As a child, he was kicked out of this high-end hotel. Now, he’s the owner - "As a child, he was kicked out of one of Macao’s finest hotels and vowed to take it over. Today, he’s the owner. Simon Sio grew up in humble surroundings in the heart of Macao, living in an old building directly across from what was then the city’s grandest accommodation, Hotel Central."
• TikTok founder becomes China's richest man - "Zhang Yiming is now worth $49.3bn - 43% more than in 2023. The surging global popularity of TikTok has seen the co-founder of its parent company, ByteDance, become China's richest person."
• Why we should all be eating more fibre (that includes popcorn) - "It’s a dietary change that reduces both your weight and your risk of diabetes and cancer. You don’t even need to eat dry-as-dust cereal. Not only is a high-fibre diet the key to keeping slim, it has also been found to improve our gut microbiome, reducing the risk of illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer and Alzheimer's. Fibre also helps to lower cholesterol and balance blood sugar levels."
• The One Country Where All Nespresso Coffee Is Made - "Every single Nespresso coffee pod is made in Switzerland, so it's perhaps not a surprise that the country's coffee export has surpassed its cheese and chocolate exports."
• How Arnold Schwarzenegger became the bad guy in The Terminator - "The Terminator was released 40 years ago, on 26 October 1984. James Cameron's science-fiction thriller turned its star into one of the biggest Hollywood action heroes of the 1980s and 1990s - and it was all because he chose to play the bad guy, as he told the BBC in 1985."
• 11 of the best TV shows to watch this November - "From a small-screen spinoff of the Denis Villeneuve Dune films to the return of Sharon Horgan's Bad Sisters, these are the shows to stream this month."
• Whose dÖner kebab? Why the beloved late-night snack is at the centre of a meaty food fight - "With the Turkish government asking to have the döner kebab recognised as a Turkish specialty, everyone’s favourite late-night snack is the big topic of discussion in Germany right now."
• If You Think You Can Hold a Grudge, Consider the Crow - "The brainy birds carry big chips on their shoulders, scientists say. And some people who become subjects of their ire may be victims of mistaken identity."
• Tiffany Spent Two Years Making This Peacock-Feather High Jewelry Necklace. Here’s Why - "The sumptuous piece made in homage to French jeweler Jean Schlumberger is a technical marvel. Here's how it was made."
• Ranked: The Top 15 Dividend Kings in 2024 - "Dividend Kings are companies that have increased their dividends annually for more than 50 years."

October 28, 2024

• Fact check: 32 false claims Trump made to Joe Rogan - "Many of those false claims are lies that were debunked months or even years ago. The claims spanned a variety of topics, including immigration policy, environmental and energy policy, the legitimacy of the 2020 election, Trump’s record in office, Vice President Kamala Harris, crowd sizes, and how schools deal with transgender children."
• Gold prices have surged in 2024. Here’s how to get in on the gold rush - "Gold prices have broken record after record, rising more than 30% in 2024 while hitting an all-time high of $2,748.23 this week."
• Man wins $1 million lottery with $20 bill he found on the ground - "Jerry Hicks, a master carpenter from Banner Elk, found a $20 bill in the parking lot of the store, he said in a news release. He spent it on a scratch-off lottery ticket - and won $1 million."
• Carbon emissions of richest 1% increase hunger, poverty & deaths, says Oxfam - "Consumption of world’s wealthiest people also making it increasingly difficult to limit global heating to 1.5C."
• 10 remarkable wildlife experiences around the world - "From a horseback safari in Brazil to one of the marine world's most flamboyant sex shows, these wildlife encounters allow travellers to come face to face with animals - without getting too close."
• Venice without the crowds: the inside story by Tracy Chevalier - "The bestselling novelist reveals her secret tips to enjoy Venice as you always hoped you could."
• ‘I didn’t really plan it’: what Ali told me when we rewatched The Rumble in the Jungle - "Fifty years on from the famous fight in Zaire no athletic contest in history has inspired as much global joy as Muhammad Ali’s win over George Foreman."
• Robert Downey Jr on Elon Musk ‘cosplaying Tony Stark’: ‘I wish he’d control his behaviour’ - "The actor who was speaking on a podcast addressed similarities between the real-life billionaire and the cocky tycoon superhero he played on screen."
• Laurence Olivier’s Richard III prosthetic nose among hundreds of actor’s items to be auctioned - "About 350 props, awards and personal items will be auctioned by his estate and his widow."
• The Night Manager season 2 star shares new filming picture with Tom Hiddleston - "A sneak peek behind the scenes of the highly anticipated follow-up. The Night Manager season 2 star Camila Morrone has shared a behind-the-scenes picture of herself and Tom Hiddleston on set of the hit drama."

October 27, 2024

• An explosive new source of clean energy - "Scientists accidentally drilled into a volcano’s magma chamber. Now they’re going back in with hopes of finding ‘limitless’ clean energy."
• Mapped: Renewable Energy as a Percentage of Power Generation, by Country - "While all countries vary on this metric, wealth is not the primary determining factor. Given their current wealth, many countries over-perform and under-perform on renewable energy. As of 2024, the global average for electricity generated from renewable sources is 29%."
• ‘No one will save you’: tourists warned as volcanic site reopens in Iceland after six eruptions in a year - "Local safety chief’s stark advice as visitors return to Grindavík - with more activity expected."
• The clocks go back, but now is not the time to hibernate - "The dark months make nature harder to access, but these simple activities will help you stay connected to it."
• Trump says on Joe Rogan podcast his biggest White House mistake was hiring ‘disloyal people’ - "Three-hour long interview caused delay in ex-president’s arrival to Michigan rally, leaving attendees in cold for hours."
• Our 40-year love affair with Microsoft Excel - "From planning weddings to organising dates, the spreadsheet program has become a part of our lives."
• Kama muta: the powerful emotion you didn’t know you had - "Goosebumps, tears, a sense of solidarity... There’s a name for that feeling, and its manifestations - from Swifties handing out friendship bracelets to strong responses to political messaging - can bring good and ill."
• Walking faster may help you live longer. Experts say to aim for this pace - "Walking at this pace is associated with a reduced risk of death - regardless of the number of steps taken per day, researchers say. How many steps should you walk a day for optimal health? Recommendations vary widely, making any answer seem like a shot in the dark, at best. An international study published last year in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology offers some more concrete advice, with a twist."
• 7 foods that bring back the weak eye vision to normal - "Incorporating nutrient-rich foods like leafy greens, citrus fruits, fatty fish, nuts, seeds, eggs, and carrots into your diet can boost eye health, improve weak vision, and reduce risks of age-related eye problems such as cataracts and macular degeneration."
• All The Ways Caffeine Affects Your Body in One Handy Infographic - "On the plus side, it also triggers the release of dopamine and glutamine in the brain, which help boost mood and reduce the risk of depression."
• The Tell-Tale Sign It's Time To Replace Your Nespresso Machine - "All good things must come to an end - a sentiment that, unfortunately, applies to even your coffee machine. As soon as your coffee starts to taste different, it's probably time for an upgrade."
• Which College Degrees Have the Best Return on Investment? - "STEM degrees have the best bang for the buck, especially engineering and computer and information science degrees. Engineering, computer and information sciences, mathematics, and engineering technician degrees are the most valuable degrees in the U.S. when looking at expected lifetime income minus debt compared to working right after high school without a degree."

October 26, 2024

• Elon Musk has been in regular contact with Putin for two years, says report - "Alleged talks between billionaire and Russian president could have enormous security implications."
• Visualizing the Cost of the American Dream in 2024 - "Today, the rising cost of living is making the American dream increasingly difficult to achieve. This graphic shows the estimated cost of the American dream per household over the course of their lifetime, based on analysis from Investopedia."
• These are 2024’s top trending Halloween costumes, according to Google - "Here are this year’s top 25 trending costumes, according to Google Trends: 1. Shrunken Head Bob, from 'Beetlejuice' ...."
• This 59-day Train Journey Passes Through 12 Countries & Includes Rides on 7 Iconic Luxury Locomotives in the World - "A luxury train journey that takes travelers through four continents and 12 countries is back, and accepting reservations for 2025. This Railbookers itinerary is the train trip to end all train trips."
• Jaguar Revives Its Classic E-Type Roadster - Again - "And, in 2021, Jaguar Classis offered a Reborn E-Type, where they restored E-Types, rather than building them from scratch, and charged around $410,000 for them."
• Archaeologists uncover tiny house in Pompeii with intact elaborate frescoes - "Archaeologists have uncovered a tiny house in Pompeii that is filled with elaborate - and sometimes erotic - frescoes, further revealing the ornate way in which Romans decorated their homes."
• Scientists say skeletal remains found in castle well belong to figure from 800-year-old saga - "Researchers have connected the identity of skeletal remains found in a well at Norway’s Sverresborg castle to a passage in a centuries-old Norse text. The 800-year-old Sverris saga, which follows the story of the real-life King Sverre Sigurdsson, includes the tossing of the body of a dead man - later known as 'Well-man' - down a well during a military raid in central Norway in 1197."
• ‘Conclave’: A Fly on the Wall Inside the Secret Process to Elect a Pope - "A new drama by Edward Berger draws the audience inside this largely hidden tradition. How accurate is it?"
• How to Set Boundaries (When It Doesn’t Come Naturally) - "We have some useful tips from experts. But no worries if you’re not ready!"
• Are Those Jeans? Look Again - "Sales are thriving in the uncanny valley of printed denim. Acne Studios, the Swedish fashion house, makes $800 jeans that look like something a roofer would wear to a rave."

October 25, 2024

• 32 Extraordinary Watches Nominated for This Year’s ‘Oscars of Horology’ - "The Academy for the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) awards are on. We saw the watches in person, photographed them, and have quite a bit to say about how the event works."
• Do you have to be attractive to get ahead? Here’s the ugly truth - "The Times science editor Tom Whipple investigates the world of pulchronomics - the academics who have proved that looks really do matter. Is the beauty bias the prejudice no one dares admit to?"
• How Intel Got Left Behind in the A.I. Chip Boom - "Intel was for decades Silicon Valley’s dominant chip company. But missed opportunities and poor execution left it on the sidelines in tech’s latest gold rush."
• Do People in ‘Blue Zones’ Actually Live Longer? - "The concept is simple and alluring: There are special regions around the world - called blue zones - where people regularly remain vibrant and active into their 90s and 100s, thanks to a simple set of behaviors that anyone can follow."
• This viral banana artwork on sale again & it could now be worth $1.5 million - "For their money, the winning bidder will receive a roll of duct tape and one banana, as well as a certificate of authenticity and official instructions for installing the work. Sotheby’s confirmed to CNN that neither the tape nor, thankfully, the banana are the originals."
• How to spot a perfect fake: the world’s top art forgery detective - "Forgeries have got so good - and so costly - that Sotheby’s has brought in its own in-house fraud-busting expert."
• Where did kissing come from? New theory may make your skin crawl - "It argues that the origins of kissing can be traced back to how our evolutionary ancestors groomed one another millions of years ago - in particular, to how they used their lips to remove ticks and lice from one another's fur."
• C.D.C. Expands Covid Vaccine Recommendations - "The agency endorsed additional doses for people at high risk."
• MICHAEL DOUGLAS HONOURED BY PRINCE ALBERT AT 40TH PRINCESS GRACE AWARDS IN NEW YORK - "HSH Prince Albert and his daughter, Jazmin Grace Grimaldi, traveled to New York for the 40th annual Princess Grace Awards, honouring young American talents in the performing arts."
• 7 Things You Should Never Plug Into an Extension Cord or Power Strip - "An expert weighs in on the do's and don'ts of home extension cords: 1. Air fryer. 2. Microwave. While the dream is to move into a home with a built-in microwave, we're all not that lucky. 3. Refrigerator. 4. Toaster and toaster oven. 5. Extension cords. 6. Space heaters. 7. AC unit."
• Top 10 crime novels of all time ranked & Agatha Christie is not No. 1 - "The hardest, and possibly most controversial, list of the best thriller and mysteries out there: No.1 A Heart Full of Headstones by Ian Rankin."
• 6 Cultural Trends That Defined the Roaring Twenties - "From the theatrical Art Deco to the strict minimalism of the Bauhaus, the Roaring Twenties were a truly exciting era for art and culture."

October 24, 2024

• The planet’s largest lake is shrinking fast. Experts fear it may never recover - "The Caspian Sea has been shrinking since the mid-1990s, but the rate it's disappearing has sped up since 2005. The Caspian Sea is the planet’s largest inland sea and it’s largest lake, an enormous body of water roughly the size of Montana. Its looping coastline stretches more than 4,000 miles and is shared by five countries: Kazakhstan, Iran, Azerbaijan, Russia and Turkmenistan."
• Explainer: Where do Harris & Trump stand on the key election issues? - "From abortion to the economy, the Democrat and Republican have widely diverging visions for the country."
• Lonely Planet’s top places to go in 2025 - "Grab your passport and your sunscreen, Lonely Planet has just revealed its 30 must-visit destinations for 2025 as well as a brand-new rundown of top 10 travel trends."
• 7 ChatGPT Prompts To Find Your Personal Success System - "Identify your success triggers, find your learning style, leverage your strengths, understand how you execute, measure success, then create a success mantra and tie it all together. Test the response until you find the system that works for you. This takes some digging, but it's worth the effort."
• Mark Cuban: If I was 16 again, I’d start this lucrative side hustle - "It can pay 6 figures a year and doesn’t require a degree: AI prompt engineering - or, the ability to phrase inquiries to chatbots to get desired responses - can be a particularly lucrative opportunity."
• How To Change Your Life With ‘October Theory’ - By A Psychologist - "For many, October symbolizes a transition: the leaves are browning, the sun is waning and the realization that the year is slowly coming to an end is dawning. This is part of what inspired the viral 'October theory,' a motivational trend that suggests the final three months of the year is prime time to change your life for the better."
• Peter Todd Was ‘Unmasked’ as Bitcoin Creator Satoshi Nakamoto. Now He’s in Hiding - "Peter Todd has gone underground after an HBO documentary named him as the creator of Bitcoin, Satoshi Nakamoto, whose real identity has long remained a mystery."
• Could you spot a fake painting? Even experts are struggling - "Replicas of masterpieces are so good these days that it’s difficult to see the difference. Here’s why we should celebrate the fine art of high-tech fakery."
• Karla’s Choice by Nick Harkaway review - this continuation of le CarrÉ is a treat - "A new story about cold war spymaster George Smiley written by John le Carré’s son expertly evokes the atmosphere of the originals."
• Is Hugh Grant’s Most Convincing Character ‘Hugh Grant’? - "The seemingly droll, breezy star is actually sentimental about his family and utterly serious about his work, including his villainous turn in 'Heretic.'"
• Roman Polanski: lawsuit alleging director raped teenager in 1973 settled & dismissed - "Civil suit that claimed the now 91-year-old sexually assaulted a 16-year-old in Los Angeles in 1973 has been settled to ‘mutual satisfaction’ of both parties."
• Mapped: Cities With the Most Centi-Millionaires - "According to estimates from New World Wealth, there are 29,350 individuals worldwide with fortunes exceeding $100 million. This graphic highlights the top 10 cities ranked by their number of centi-millionaires, based on data compiled by Henley & Partners as of December 2023."
• Tarzan star Ron Ely dies aged 86 - "US actor Ron Ely, best known for playing the role of Tarzan in the 1960s television show of the same name, has died aged 86."
• Geoff Capes - a life in pictures - "Britain’s greatest shot putter and World’s Strongest Man winner has died aged 75. Here we look back at his life and career."

October 23, 2024

• The world’s best bars for 2024 announced - "The World's 50 Best Bars 2024: Mexico City's Handshake Speakeasy was named the greatest bar in the world at an awards ceremony in Madrid on October 22."
• The 50 Hottest Men Of All Time - "From James Dean to A$AP Rocky and all that's in between."
• Hoard of silver coins dating from Norman Conquest is Britain’s most valuable treasure find ever - "The 2,584 silver pennies date from around 1066-1068, spanning one of the most turbulent periods in English history as the country was successfully invaded for the last time during the Norman Conquest."
• Telescope with world’s largest digital camera will be a ‘game-changer’ for astronomy - "The Vera C. Rubin Observatory is a new telescope under construction in Chile, atop a mountain that is 2,682-meters (8,800-feet) tall. It will offer an unprecedented look at our solar system and the universe. Its mission is simple yet ambitious - to photograph the entire night sky in extreme detail and unlock some of the universe’s deepest secrets."
• Do Hair Growth Supplements Work? - "Online, videos abound of people saying the supplements make hair thicker, healthier and shinier. Do they really?"
• In 1924 a risquÉ silent film featured a woman as US president - "The Last Man on Earth is one of the earliest films in history to feature a female president of the US. It set the tone for the films and shows that came next. What happened on screen in the 100 years that followed?"
• I asked ChatGPT to create images based on what it knows about me - here's how it went - "ChatGPT holds information about you in its memory, so I decided to use this to create an 'epic image' of my life."
• 5 ways I actually used ChatGPT this year to improve my life - "To my surprise, the AI chatbot has actually proven quite beneficial for real-world needs in ways unexpected."
• 10 things you don’t realize you’re doing because you’re lonely - "Loneliness can be a tricky thing, often sneaking up on us in ways we don’t recognize. In this article, we’ll delve into ten telltale signs you’re acting out of loneliness. Stick with me as we uncover these unconscious behavioral patterns."
• 10 ways to show you’re intelligent without saying a word, according to psychology - "It’s about letting your intelligence shine through in simple, understated ways. Here’s how to let your intelligence speak for itself."
• The 13 Most Beautiful Destinations In The World Sadly Ruined By Overtourism - "Travel hotspots around the world are feeling the brunt of overtourism and the myriad complications it creates for local infrastructure - choked roads, water shortages, public nuisances, and even the physical deterioration of UNESCO World Heritage sites. Here are 13 beautiful destinations ruined by overtourism and how countries are trying to fix it."
• The Nespresso Espresso Pods With The Highest Caffeine Content - "Nespresso offers a variety of coffee machines and coffee pod flavors, but there is one thing coffee lovers who need a serious caffeine kick in their morning espresso are wondering the most: Which Nespresso espresso pod has the highest caffeine content? The answer is Vertuo Espresso Diavolitto, which boasts around 150 milligrams of caffeine per cup."
• Why The Intensity Level Of Your Nespresso Pods Matters - "Nespresso's intensity scale doesn't measure the amount of caffeine in a pod (they contain between 40mg and 200mg per cup - depending on the type of pod). Instead, it judges pods based on their concentration of coffee."

October 22, 2024

• The 15 Safest Countries To Travel, Ranked In A New Report - "Searching for the safest places to travel? An annual report ranks the safest countries—with Iceland coming out on top. Again, the United States didn’t make the cut."
• Three Mile Island nuclear plant gears up for Big Tech reboot - "Nuclear creates large amounts of carbon-free electricity. That is attractive to companies, like Microsoft, that have climate pledges and face increasing public scrutiny for their voracious power use."
• Inside eight fashion designers' homes that match their owners' clothing aesthetic - "Each of these remarkable interiors reflects its creative owner's unique vision - from a British bohemian-lady-of-the-manor style to a 14th-Century Florentine palazzo with added neon zing."
• What Is ‘Pink Cocaine’? - "The drug cocktail can contain ketamine, Ecstasy and meth - but rarely cocaine itself."
• Tim Cook defends Apple coming late to AI with four words - "While the iPhone 16 launch was all about Apple Intelligence, many have accused the company of being very late to the AI party. Cook says that sometimes you can be first and best, but any time you have to choose between the two, there’s only one answer: ‘Not first, but best’."
• Timex 170th Anniversary Edition $1 Waterbury Watch - "A limited-edition of 1,000 available globally on November 16th and priced at just $1. Honoring our Past with a Limited-Edition Release: $1 Then, $1 Now: Timex 170th Anniversary Edition $1 Waterbury Watch."
• The 43 Best Swatch Watches Ever - "The 43 greatest Swatches of all time can now officially be revealed as follows: 1. Ticking Brain (1997) ..."
• The brain collector: the scientist unravelling the mysteries of grey matter - "Using cutting-edge methods, Alexandra Morton-Hayward is cracking the secrets of ancient brains - even as hers betrays her."
• Patriot by Alexei Navalny review - last testament - "The late Russian activist’s memoir is an insightful, sharp, even humorous account of his fight against Putin’s regime - and a warning to the world."
• People who still look young in their 60s & beyond usually adopt these 8 daily habits - "Ageing is inevitable, but that doesn’t mean we have to look our age. Ever wondered how some people seem to defy the march of time, looking youthful in their 60s and beyond? It’s not just about good genes or expensive skincare. In fact, it often comes down to simple daily habits."
• What is okra water & is it good for your health? - "In the world of infused water trends, okra water is having a moment, and here’s what you need to know about it."
• Apple’s AirPods Pro hearing health features are as good as they sound - "The AirPods Pro 2 will soon offer more robust hearing protection and a new hearing aid feature. But it’s the hearing test that really hooked me."
• Best Record Player & Turntable for 2024 - "Looking to buy a high-quality turntable for your vinyl collection? We've tested the best record players from Rega, U-Turn, Pro-Ject, Fluance and more. Based on my hours of testing and comparisons between models at every level, the best turntable for most people is the Fluance RT82 ($299). It offers excellent design, killer old-school looks and great sound quality for the money. But if you're looking to spend a lot more than that, the best turntable I've tested is the U-Turn Orbit Theory. It offers superlative sound quality and looks every bit the premium model it is. Depending on your budget, there's even more players to choose from - so dust off your vinyl collection and keep reading."

October 21, 2024

• Holiday in Greenland? New airports aim to entice tourists - "A new international airport will soon open in Greenland’s capital Nuuk, allowing larger aircraft to land for the first time - paving the way for direct flights from the US and Europe."
• A return to Vietnam, 50 years after the war - "Half a century after the end of a devastating conflict that left much of the nation in ruins, Vietnam has emerged as one of Asia's most popular destinations."
• The paintings that changed the way we see London - "A new exhibition charts how Claude Monet's revolutionary, fog-shrouded visions of the Thames would 'irreversibly alter how London saw itself'."
• Does mood lighten or darken as clocks go back? Britons urged to join study - "Project examines how switch to winter time affects wellbeing - either positive or negative - and time perception."
• Covid pandemic disproportionately affected younger Americans of color, says study - "Older Americans had highest number of deaths, but younger Americans of color had highest disease rates."
• The Mystery That’s Too Good to Solve - "Who built the Shell Grotto, and why do we care so much?"
• The Interview: Mia Khalifa’s Messy World of Money, Sex & Activism - "To be influential online is to confront difficult questions about self-presentation, public judgment, freedom of speech, power and money. Over the last decade or so, Mia Khalifa has been forced to try to find some answers."
• 6 MUST HAVE GADGETS FOR AN AIRPORT LAYOVER - "It's best that you're prepared to wait it out at your assigned boarding gate with as much comfort as you can muster. A great way to do that is to arm yourself with essential equipment that'll keep you sufficiently entertained without being a huge bother to your fellow travelers."
• What’s the Best Time to Eat Dinner? - "It turns out there is a best time to eat dinner. Figuring out the best time to eat your meals doesn't have to be so confusing - here's what you should know."

October 20, 2024

• Europe’s secret season for travel starts now - "Who can forget this summer’s protests against overtourism in Barcelona and Mallorca, the wildfires that raged across Greece during the country’s hottest June and July on record and selfie stoplights to help control crowds on the clogged streets of Rome and Florence? For travelers looking to avoid all that - as well as break less of a sweat literally and financially - welcome to Europe’s secret season. From roughly mid-October to mid-December."
• From fashion to the food industry: 11 ways that weight-loss drugs have changed the world - "The growing - and sometimes secret - use of drugs containing semaglutide has had a huge impact on how we live ... but where will it end?"
• ‘There was eye-watering fear’: John le CarrÉ’s son on writing a new George Smiley novel - "Nick Harkaway was a successful novelist in his own right when his brothers asked him to continue their late father’s spy series. Could he pull it off?"
• Winter warmers: Top ten best menswear looks for autumn - in pictures - "Channel grandpa core, country casuals and the season’s must-have baggy jeans."
• Want to Rent a Panda? Here Are 5 Things China Demands in Return - "Normally confidential contracts show that U.S. zoos are accepting increasingly strict terms governing panda cams and public statements."
• I used ChatGPT to find the best haircut for my face shape - here's how to do it - "Let ChatGPT be your virtual hair stylist. Discover how to use ChatGPT to find your perfect haircut. Learn step-by-step AI-powered hair styling tips for your face shape."
• Study Confirms a Simple Trick to Communicate With Your Cat - "You just need to smile at them more. Not the human way, by baring your teeth, but the cat way, by narrowing your eyes and blinking slowly. By observing cat-human interactions, scientists confirmed that this expression makes cats - both familiar and strange - approach and be more receptive to humans."
• How to Clean White Sneakers So They Look Brand New - "Make your dishwater gray shoes look bright white again with these seven easy steps."
• How to clean your glasses, according to experts - "Keeping your lenses smudge-free is easy with the right tricks up your sleeve: Step 1: Rinse your glasses with lukewarm water to help remove any gritty particles that could scratch your lenses. Step 2: Put a tiny drop of dish soap on your fingertips and gently rub it over the lenses and frame. Step 3: Rinse thoroughly with warm water. Step 4: Dry them off with a clean microfiber cloth."
• is this the perfect edc gadget for your apple devices? - "A charging cable that’s impossible to tangle and fits on your keychain. This sneaky cool charging cable works with most devices and adapters. And it's impossible to tangle. Meet the Rolling Square inCharge XS."

October 19, 2024

• How Israeli soldiers stumbled upon Israel's most wanted man - "Killing Sinwar: A chance encounter after a yearlong manhunt for the head of Hamas. Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar didn’t use cell phones and other electronic communications. Instead, he sent written notes to convey his directions."
• John Lennon & Yoko Ono: his affairs, binges & diet pills - "For years the radio host Elliot Mintz was the only person the former Beatle and his wife trusted. Now, he has written a book about his intense relationship with the couple: 'John, meanwhile, was every bit as charming, funny and intelligent as he came across in public. But I gradually discovered he was far from perfect. For starters, for a guy who aspired to be a world-shaking peacemaker - a thought leader on a par with Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr and Nelson Mandela - he was surprisingly uninformed about historic figures like, well, Gandhi, King and Mandela. Yoko was even more airy and ethereal in private than she was in the media. She could be a fountain of aphorisms, dispensing endless nuggets of Zen-like philosophy. Her haiku-esque homilies on manifesting one’s desires or the wisdom of the nonrational mind could be a bit much for some people.'"
• 6 Vacations That Could Help You Live Longer & Healthier - "All-inclusive retreats around the world aim to cultivate wellness and longevity though high-tech tests, “biohacking” treatments, meditation, breath work and more."
• Hate Noisy Restaurants? Stick This in Your Ear - "Apple earbuds will soon be able to double as hearing aids, but those and others can already help you hear dining companions. Here’s how to use them."
• Scientists pinpoint the origins of humanity’s love of carbs - "A once prevailing stereotype of ancient humans feasting on mammoth steak and other hunks of meat helped foster the idea of a protein-heavy diet that was necessary to fuel the development of a large brain. New research, published in the journal Science on Thursday, offers the first hereditary evidence for early carb-laden diets. Scientists traced the evolution of a gene that enables humans to digest starch more easily by breaking it down into simple sugars that our bodies can use for energy."
• Dog spotted hanging out on top of ancient pyramid in Egypt - "While flying over Egypt’s famous Great Pyramids at sunrise earlier this week, US paraglider Marshall Mosher and fellow paragliders spotted the unexpected sight of a stray hound also taking in views around the summit of one of the ancient wonders."
• Angelina Jolie 'spellbinding' as opera star Callas - "Angelina Jolie's performance could see her in the race for best actress at the Oscars. Maria is the third in a trilogy of films about high-profile, complex women from director Pablo Larraín, following his movies about Jacqueline Kennedy and Princess Diana. Written by Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight, the film focuses on Callas's final years, in the 1970s, when she was living in Paris."
• The Terminator: How James Cameron's 'science-fiction slasher film' predicted our fears about AI, 40 years ago - "Starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, the 1984 blockbuster The Terminator has become synonymous with the dangers of superintelligent machines. But it 'helps and hinders' our understanding of AI."
• The 10 Best Dress Watches - "Whether in a meeting or at dinner, a fine dress watch can enhance your attire and add an air of elegance and subtle beauty. In our top 10 list, you’ll find a selection of the best dress watches on the market, each of which is characterized by timeless design, precision, and fine materials. From the classic look of the Cartier Tank to the technical finesse of the Patek Philippe Calatrava, there is something for everyone."
• The Complete History of the Lange 1 Watch - "The Lange 1 put the Swiss watch industry on notice in 1994. This is the complete history of the most famous watch from Germany."
• How the Century-Old Cartier Tank Became a Contemporary Icon - "Everything you need to know about Hollywood’s favorite watch - and how to buy one today. More than a century after its creation, the Tank has become as much of a celebrity as the men who wore it. Figures like Clark Gable, Duke Ellington, Andy Warhol, and Yves Saint Laurent turned the Tank into a status symbol that’s more reserved than, say, a Rolex or Omega."

October 18, 2024

• How a surprise encounter ended in the death of Hamas' leader - "Israel spent more than a year hunting Yahya Sinwar. Here’s what we know about the operation that killed a key October 7 mastermind."
• the latest Liam Payne updates with MailOnline after singer's death - "'Wild' Liam Payne was seen arguing with mystery woman about money in hotel lobby just hours before falling to his death from balcony."
• Liam Payne of One Direction - a life in pictures - "British boyband star and solo singer Liam Payne has died aged 31, after falling from a hotel in Argentina. Payne was 16 when he joined One Direction, which was formed by music executive Simon Cowell on reality show The X Factor in 2010. The band - Payne, Niall Horan, Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson and Zayn Malik - went on to become one of the biggest boybands of all time. They went on an indefinite hiatus in 2016 and Payne began a solo career."
• 'He thought of himself as a king': The parties that led to Diddy's downfall - "There was a time when an invitation to a party hosted by Sean 'Diddy' Combs was one of the most sought-after tickets in the entertainment industry."
• Elon Musk has been inescapable in this election. How could he affect the results? - "Tesla and SpaceX chief’s behavior sets him apart from even the most politically active billionaires - serving as a Trump policy adviser and mega-donor."
• Pay attention! 12 ways to improve your focus & concentration span - "From gamifying your to-do list to going for a regular morning walk, top tips for improving concentration from psychotherapists, health coaches and other experts."
• The 5 Best Exercises for Skiers - "These five exercises will help skiers of all skill levels boost strength and mobility."
• How the full English breakfast divides Britain - "The Full English: How a greasy feast came to define and divide a nation."
• Does France really make the best bread in the world? As a baker, I’d say ... maybe not - "Living in Marseille, I see how bread is a source of daily joy - but the reality of French bakery is not as charming as it seems."
• Aston Martin DB12 Goldfinger Edition: An Homage To James Bond - "With the new Aston Martin DB12 Goldfinger Edition, Aston Martin is paying homage to not only James Bond, but to the Bond film many fans consider the best movie in the series. Goldfinger wasn’t just the first film to feature James Bond driving an Aston Martin, he was driving what many consider to be the defining 007 car - a 1964 Aston Martin DB5. It was a powerful combination, the quintessential James Bond (played by Sean Connery) driving the quintessential James Bond car."
• After Marie Kondo: the return of Japan’s joyful clutter - "The world has long been in thrall to the idea that Japan is a haven of controlled, ordered minimalism. But the reality is much different - and far messier - than you might expect."

October 17, 2024

• People we’ve lost in 2024 - "Here are some notable people who have died in 2024."
• ChatGPT Glossary: 48 AI Terms That Everyone Should Know - "With AI technology embedding itself in products from Google, Microsoft, Apple, Anthropic, Perplexity and OpenAI, it's good to stay up to date on all the latest terminology."
• AI image generator shoot-out: I tested ChatGPT vs Gemini vs Meta AI to crown a winner - "Things got interesting with 5 prompts and 3 chatbots. I performed a side-by-side comparison to evaluate the image generation capabilities of three leading AI models."
• 700,000 years of Egyptian history finds enormous new home - "The public has finally been allowed to visit part of the Grand Egyptian Museum, which is the size of 80 football fields."
• 10 Must-See UNESCO Heritage Sites - "Google Arts & Culture."
• Art Basel Paris Returns Larger & More French, Than Ever - "The fair will open in a freshly redone space with a new name. ‘In a way, it’s year zero,’ explained Art Basel’s chief executive."
• Paris Is Rising as an Art Market Hub, With Some Way Left to Go - "Sotheby’s opened a new salesroom and international collectors are arriving for the inaugural Art Basel Paris fair. But visiting is one thing; buying is another. This is the Mona Lisa of handbags, said Aurélie Vassy, Sotheby’s head of handbag and fashion sales in Europe, as she unlocked a glass display case and proudly revealed a battered black leather Birkin, the very first Birkin bag."
• The secret vineyard in the middle of Paris where the wine has ‘an air of mystery’ - "The vineyards of Paris were lost centuries ago. One survives hidden in the heart of the city. The Clos Montmartre vineyard is tucked away in the center of Paris, the last remnant of an ancient wine-making region."
• 6 Takeaways From the Christopher Reeve Documentary ‘Super/Man’ - "The new film chronicles the life of the paralyzed star, covering his friendship with Robin Williams and gut-wrenching details about his care and family."
• Is Bone Broth Really Brimming With Health Benefits? - "It’s called 'liquid gold' on TikTok. We asked experts if there’s any science behind the health claims."
• Megan Marshack Dies at 70; Was With Nelson Rockefeller at His Death - "She was at the center of rumors about the former vice president’s last moments, but she remained silent about their association until she wrote her own obituary. The circumstances of Mr. Rockefeller’s death remain mysterious. One account said that he was found dead wearing a suit and tie and surrounded by working papers; another said that he was nude, amid containers of Chinese food. Several credible sources indicated that he did not actually die at his brownstone but rather at Ms. Marshack’s apartment."
• Pamela Harriman: 'Churchill's secret weapon' in the fight against the Nazis - "Winston Churchill's aristocratic daughter-in-law and confidante Pamela Harriman is considered 'the greatest courtesan of her era'. Decades after her death, she still divides opinion - was she a smart power player, or 'shameless' and'repellent'?"
• If your Apple Watch alerts you to sleep apnea, here’s what it means & what to do next - "Already multitool smart devices, Apple Watches added another buzzworthy feature last month: an app to detect sleep apnea. sleep apnea is a condition that causes a sleeper’s breathing to pause when the muscles of the throat relax too much and the airway collapses."
• How did watches evolve into wristwatches? - "If you take the short version of the story at face value, here’s how it sounds: 'In ye olden days, men wore pocket watches. Then, some clever watchmakers made movements small enough to fit into women’s jewellery. When World War I erupted, the men who fought realised that wearing them on their wrists was far more practical. From that point onwards, the wristwatch industry became what it is today.'"
• 10 Styles of GuillochÉ Dial Every Watch Enthusiast Should Know - "Engine turning doesn’t sound as sexy as the evocative French word guilloché, even if it is disturbingly similar to guillotine. The term stems from the French word guillocher, which means engraving surfaces with repetitive patterns. From the start, guilloché found its way into watchmaking as a pocket watch case adornment as early as the 17th century."

October 16, 2024

• It’s OK if You Haven’t Gotten Your Flu Shot Yet - "In the United States, seasonal flu levels are still reliably low at this time of year. Levels can start to increase in November, but in most years, they really take off in December, or even later."
• Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan–Atlas) sightings around the world - in pictures - "Named after the Chinese observatory and South African programme that detected it in 2023, the ‘comet of the century’ may have formed at a distance of up to 400,000 times that between Earth and the Sun. Its coma, or head, measures about 130,000 miles (209,000km) in diameter, with a tail extending 18m miles (29m km). The comet is not expected to return for another 80,000 years."
• Satoshi Nakamoto’s Rising Billions Expose Bitcoin’s Principal Fault - "Assuming Nakamoto is Peter Todd, or someone else entirely, this individual (with a personal bitcoin stash of the 1 million variety) is already a multi-billionaire, and could eventually ascend to trillionaire status."
• Man Who Accidentally Threw Hard Drive Containing 8,000 Bitcoins Worth Half A Billion Dollars In Landfill Sues Local City Council For Not Excavating The Site - "James Howells, etched in the history books for accidentally discarding Bitcoin, which is worth more than half a billion dollars today, took a major step in retrieving them."
• The UK could turn as cold as Scandinavia. Why aren’t we preparing? - "Nothing is certain in the casino of climate physics, but if a vital ocean current collapses temperatures will plummet over the decades that follow - and Britain is ‘ground zero’."
• How to Visit Venice Responsibly, According to Locals - "The iconic city has become a poster child for overtourism, but locals say it’s still possible to visit respectfully. Here’s the advice that longtime residents shared with me about how to reap the rewards of being a better visitor."
• Grand Egyptian Museum partially opens to public - "A highly anticipated museum housing the world's largest collection of ancient Egyptian artefacts has opened the doors to some of its galleries. More than 20 years in the making, the sprawling 120-acre Grand Egyptian Museum near the pyramids of Giza, will showcase more than 100,000 objects, including treasures from the tomb of King Tutankhamun."
• The Panda Factories - "In the 1990s, China began sending pandas to foreign zoos to be bred, in the hope that future generations could be released into nature. It hasn’t gone as planned."
• The Unique Gulfstream G650 That Mark Zuckerberg Flies - "It makes sense for celebrities to own or use private jets when they need to travel in style and discretely to get to where their fans or business call them on time. The Gulfstream G650 is one aircraft that seems to catch the eyes of most celebrities. Among those celebrities is the co-founder, chairman, and CEO of Facebook, Mark Zuckerberg."
• Prada & Axiom Space unveil spacesuit designs for NASA’s Artemis III moon mission - "Unveiled during the International Astronautical Congress in Milan on Wednesday, the mostly white suits feature a cropped torso and stone-gray patches across the elbows and knees. Although conspicuously free of branding or logos, the designs do include red accent lines across the forearms, waist and “portable life system backpacks,” which nod to Prada’s sub-brand, Linea Rossa."
• Jason Bourne Sequel Gets the Perfect Title & Director - "Details of the next Bourne sequel may have just been revealed. But will Matt Damon return? The sixth installment in the hugely successful action franchise Jason Bourne is now in early development, and the title for the sequel may have now been revealed. The next outing for the amnesiac spy is titled The Bourne Dilemma."
• Celebrating The 100th Anniversary Of The First Citizen Watch - "Marking the occasion with a 100-piece traveling exhibit and a reissue of a mechanical pocket watch."
• TrdelnÍk: The Czech food that's not Czech - "In recent years, this doughy, sugar-coated sweet has become ubiquitous in Prague. But despite being billed as 'traditionally' Czech, the dish was adopted from elsewhere. Meet the trdelník. Also called chimney cakes'', perhaps because they are long-ish and tubular, trdelník gets its name from the stick it slowly spins on as it cooks over coals."
• Have it large: why 2024 is the era of ultra-baggy jeans - "From Rihanna to Loewe, jeans are enjoying a wide-legged moment. But for all of the excess denim being worn on catwalks, by celebrities and by gen Z, will the skinny ever truly fall out of favour?"

October 15, 2024

• You go to the gym to sweat - but the ultrarich are ‘hacking’ fitness & wellness to try & live longer - "Can these ultra-exclusive luxury destinations help extend your life? They’d certainly like to try."
• How Healthy Is Broccoli? - "The dinnertime standard is a nutritional multitasker."
• Pets in China are earning ‘snack money’ in cafes as their owners send them to work - "Pet cafes are a big business in China. Visitors get to interact with the animals that roam the shop, allowing the venue owners to charge more for the experience."
• Alarming amount of unsold goods: 4.7 billion in the warehouses of LVMH & Kering - "The increased amount of unsold goods is implicit in the business model of the luxury industry (and of the fashion one, more in general), as it plans for maximum production efficiency to create economies of scale."
• 'A social commentary about what was really going on' - How Easy Rider revolutionised Hollywood - "The cult classic's guerilla techniques and daring subject matter helped to kickstart a new era. Just before its release in 1969, the BBC interviewed its director, Dennis Hopper, discovering an actor as idiosyncratic as his film."
• 7 Settings Every iPhone User Should Change After Installing iOS 18 - "Get the most out of iOS 18 when upgrading your current phone or moving to the new iPhone 16: 1. Change the default buttons on the lock screen ..."

October 14, 2024

• Watch: Why is the latest SpaceX rocket test a big deal? - "Elon Musk's SpaceX has successfully completed a world first test, landing part of their Starship back onto its launch pad. This means the company's plan to develop a fully reusable and quickly deployable rocket a lot closer."
• Humans are going back to the moon. Extra limbs could help them live & work there - "‘SuperLimbs’ could help astronauts recover from falls. Humans haven’t traveled to the moon since NASA’s Apollo program ended in 1972, but the Artemis program will soon return humans to the lunar surface, with the first crewed landing currently slated for 2026."
• Top 25 safest airlines for 2024 - full list - "1. Air New Zealand. 2. Qantas. 3. Virgin Australia. 4. Etihad Airways. 5. Qatar Airways. 6. Emirates. 7. All Nippon Airways. 8. Finnair. 9. Cathay Pacific Airways. 10. Alaska Airlines. 11. SAS."
• Trees & land absorbed almost no CO2 last year. Is nature’s carbon sink failing? - "The sudden collapse of carbon sinks was not factored into climate models - and could rapidly accelerate global heating."
• The Optimus robots at Tesla’s Cybercab event were humans in disguise - "Behind-the-scenes human ‘assisting’ Optimus meant the We, Robot event said little about how far its humanoid robots have come."
• Columbus probably Spanish & Jewish, study says - "Famed explorer Christopher Columbus was likely Spanish and Jewish, according to a new genetic study conducted by Spanish scientists that aimed to shed light on a centuries-old mystery."
• Whatever happened to railroad dining cars? - "When Europe’s railroad dining cars were the height of luxury."
• Prime Video just added all 25 James Bond movies - here’s the 5 worth watching - "These are the 007 movies you need to watch first: 'Dr. No' (1962) - 'Goldfinger' (1964) - 'On Her Majesty's Secret Service’ (1969) - ‘GoldenEye’ (1995) - ‘Casino Royale’ (2006)."
• 10 Suspenseful TV Thrillers That Will Keep You Guessing The Whole Way Through - "The pacing, foreshadowing, and number of red herrings must be perfectly balanced to keep the audience engaged while not alienating them and making the plot too convoluted. This makes it especially intriguing to watch a show that provides a genuinely shocking ending: 10 The Undoing (2020) - 9 Dark (2017–2020) - 8 The Sinner (2017–2021) - 7 Sharp Objects (2018) - 6 Severance (2022–Present) - 5 Fargo (2014–Present)."
• Pulp Fiction at 30: Quentin Tarantino’s masterwork remains electric - "The 1994 follow-up to Reservoir Dogs is a remarkable act of alchemy, winning over both arthouse and multiplex audiences like nothing else before it."
• 10 Rolex Crown Logos Every Collector Should Know, From the Bart Simpson to the Frog Foot - "A tiny variation in the watchmaker’s famed coronet can send a timepiece’s value skyrocketing. Here are our favorite quirky crowns, ranked: 10. Smudge Crown, from the 1665 Sea Dweller. 9. Gumby, from the 1016 Explorer. 8. The Harp, from the 1675 Mark 1 GMT. 7. Tulip, from the 5512 ..."
• 10 little known body language signs that signal high intelligence - "High intelligence isn’t just about acing trivia night or solving difficult equations. It’s also communicated through subtle, often overlooked, physical cues. These are the nonverbal cues that smart people unknowingly exhibit: 1) Confident posture - 2) Eye contact - 3) The power of touch - 4) Expressive hand gestures - 5) Controlled facial expressions."
• Limiting Aircraft Data Displayed (LADD) - "The LADD program provides aircraft owners the ability to have their flight data filtered from distribution via the FAA System Wide Information Management (SWIM) data feed or filtered from public display by web sites that participate in the program. Vendors who subscribe to FAA SWIM Data feeds are bound by a Data Access User Agreement to filter any LADD participant from public display of aircraft flight data."

October 13, 2024

• Watch: 'Astonishing' moment Starship booster caught in mid air - "SpaceX's Starship has begun its fifth test flight, as Elon Musk pushes ahead in his quest to one day take astronauts to the Moon - maybe even to Mars. During this flight, the SpaceX team attempted something that had never been done before. Unlike in previous flights, when the booster splashed down in the Indian Ocean, it slowed itself down and descended gently back toward the launchpad for a pair of giant mechanical arms to catch it - in what’s known as the 'chopsticks manoeuvre'."
• Welcome to the club: why are private members’ clubs booming? - "Whether it’s an exclusive establishment with a years-long waiting list or a working men’s club at the heart of its community, there’s nothing like a sense of belonging. And when times are tough, memberships go up."
• Melania by Melania Trump review - a blame-dodging masterclass - "Ex-first lady strategically avoids many key subjects in memoir seemingly at odds with Republican party."
• 5 things not to say to a grieving friend - "It’s almost impossible to know what to say to someone in the throes of grief. We all want to say something comforting. Very few of us know what that is."
• Are carbs good for you? The new rules of bread, pasta & rice - "A low-carbohydrates diet may not be the answer to a long and healthy life after all. Italy - the country that eats the most pasta per person - also has the lowest obesity rate in Europe. Both the Mediterranean diet and the diet of the blue zones - the world’s longevity hotspots, which are in Japan, Costa Rica, Sardinia, Greece and California - are high in carbs, not low. So are carbs really the enemy?"
• blue zones - "Live Better, Longer." Explorations and Research. For over 20 years, our work has been rooted in the research and identification of the world's longest-lived and happiest populations.
• ‘I need to feel alive’: Julianne Moore on family, friendship & mortality - "Few actors are as endlessly versatile and compelling as Julianne Moore. Ahead of her extraordinary performance in the latest Pedro Almodóvar film, she opens up about love, death and the complexity and richness of ordinary lives."
• How the Speedy Bag Became a New Menswear Favorite - "Like all It bags, though, the Speedy eventually fell out of fashion - deemed a relic of the aughts, a signifier of gaudy Y2K style. But what goes out always comes back in style, and now, the Speedy bag is having a well-earned resurgence - only this time on the arms of some seriously stylish men."
• What's the Cheapest Way to Get Priority Pass Airport Lounge Access? We Do the Math - "Play your cards right and you could get this luxury perk nearly for free."
• Apple TV hidden features: 9 helpful tricks everyone should know - "Set a timer: Honestly, this is the Apple TV feature I use every single day. - Automatic Subtitles: - InSight: - Apple Music Sing: - Apple Music ..."
• Your iPhone Has a Hidden Documents Scanner. Here's How to Use It - "When you need to sign and scan a document or don't have a proper scanner ready, your iPhone will do just fine: On iOS 17 versions and older, tap the Camera button at the bottom of the screen (or if you're editing a note, the same Camera icon will be above the keyboard) and tap Scan Documents. If you're on iOS 18, instead of a Camera icon, you'll tap the Attachments button (the paperclip icon) and likewise tap Scan Documents."
• OpenAI Races Toward AGI with its New Breakthrough Model - "The company is making leaps and bounds closer to this near-fantastical future."
• The $9 Flight Attendant-loved Hack That Changed the Way I Carry My Bags at the Airport - "This durable, compact tool will be your new go-to travel companion: The Westonetek Add-a-bag Luggage Strap, a bargain at only $9 on Amazon, did exactly what I needed it to do: let me carry more without physically carrying more."

October 12, 2024

• Kremlin confirms Trump sent Russia Covid-19 tests, after former president denied Bob Woodward claim - "The Trump administration 'sent us several samples of test kits,' Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Thursday, broadly supporting Woodward’s claim. His intervention comes after Trump denied the claims, telling ABC News they were 'false.' 'Please don’t tell anybody you sent these to me,' Putin said to Trump, according to Woodward. 'I don’t care,' Trump replied. 'Fine.' 'No, no,' Putin said. 'I don’t want you to tell anybody because people will get mad at you, not me. They don’t care about me.'"
• Six books to help understand the US & its politics - "From the pursuit of happiness to the economy - in the run-up to the election, here are some books that offer context, insight and perspectives on the US."
• I Was Trump’s Ghostwriter. A New Biopic Gets the Most Important Thing Right - "Watching 'The Apprentice' crystallized two big lessons that I learned from Mr. Trump 30 years ago and that I’ve seen play out in his life ever since with more and more extreme consequences. The first lesson is that a lack of conscience can be a huge advantage when it comes to accruing power, attention and wealth in a society where most other human beings abide by a social contract. The second lesson is that nothing we get for ourselves from the outside world can ever adequately substitute for what we’re missing on the inside."
• Human foot found on Everest may hold key to one of mountaineering’s greatest mysteries - "A name label still stitched onto the woollen sock read 'A.C. Irvine,' revealing that it probably belonged to British climber Andrew 'Sandy' Irvine. Irvine’s disappearance on Everest in 1924, alongside his compatriot George Mallory, is one of mountaineering’s biggest mysteries - with a solution that has the potential to change history."
• ‘It went horribly wrong’: DNA analysis sheds light on lost Arctic expedition’s grisly end - "Archaeologists have identified the cannibalized remains of a senior officer who perished during an ill-fated 19th century Arctic expedition, offering insight into its lost crew’s tragic and grisly final days."
• Airfares to these gorgeous beach destinations are now a lot cheaper - "In travel news this week: fat bears, hungry raccoons, an R-rated flight movie mishap and the best-value air travel destinations for Americans in the year ahead. A new Travel Trends 2025 report by flight comparison site Skyscanner has revealed the destinations with the biggest airfare price drops from the United States over the past year."
• Madeira: The far-flung 'Hawaii of Europe' - "With its tropical climate, looming volcanic mountains and stunning black-sand beaches, it's no wonder Madeira, Portugal, has been called the'Hawaii of Europe'."
• Seven Ways to Love Better - "Reading some 200,000 love stories has taught me a few lessons about love and life. Here are the ones that help me most."
• Navalny expected to die in prison, memoir reveals - "Russia's most prominent opposition leader for a decade, Alexei Navalny, believed he would die in prison, according to his memoir. A fierce critic of President Vladimir Putin, he died in an Arctic Circle jail in February while serving 19 years on extremism charges that were widely seen as politically motivated."
• Lose an inch from your waist in five weeks - "New figures say that over-45s are carrying too much weight around their middles and we should be measuring our BRI (Body Roundness Index). Our fitness expert Peta Bee on how to lose the paunch"
• Body Roundness Index (BRI) Calculator - "Body Roundness Index (BRI) is an innovative health metric that can provide genuine insight based on a few quick measurements. The calculator below helps determine the roundness of your body shape from your height, waist and hip circumference."
• The 10 Best Chess Players Of All Time - "The games of these masters delight, inspire, and teach us the ways of the royal game. It is common to discuss the greatest players of all time in chess circles—but these discussions always beg the singular question: Who was the best of all time?"
• THE ALBIES - since 2022. "The Albies - named after the anti-apartheid hero Albie Sachs, who received the organization's inaugural lifetime achievement prize in 2022 - aim to shine a protective spotlight on brave individuals and groups from around the globe who, at great personal risk, have devoted their lives to fighting for justice."

October 11, 2024

• Maps & charts: Visualizing Milton’s historic impact across Florida - "With the storm now moving into the Atlantic Ocean, roughly 10 million residents remain under threat from dangerous coastal conditions through Friday. The storm’s dramatic and rapid intensification set a record as the fastest-ever Atlantic hurricane to escalate from a tropical depression to Category 5 status in just over 48 hours, according to NASA."
• In pictures: Northern lights dazzle during solar storm - "Increased solar activity causes auroras that dance around Earth’s poles, known as the northern lights, or aurora borealis, and southern lights, or aurora australis. When the energized particles from coronal mass ejections reach Earth’s magnetic field, they interact with gases in the atmosphere to create those different colored lights in the sky."
• Comet likely last seen when Neanderthals walked Earth could soon dazzle in the night sky - "A recently discovered comet, known as C/2023 A3 Tsuchinshan–ATLAS, will make its closest approach of Earth on Saturday. Sky-gazers won’t want to miss the event since it may be the last time the comet will be seen in the night sky for another 80,000 years."
• Elon Musk unveils his ‘Cybercab’ robotaxi - "Tesla CEO Elon Musk unveiled on Thursday his vision of a 'a fun, exciting future,' an 'age of abundance' full of his company’s self-driving cars without steering wheels, parking lots turned into parks and robots that will walk among the population - that he once again promised would be available within a few years."
• Al Pacino says being a new dad at 84 is a ‘mini miracle’ - "Al Pacino is enjoying being a late-in-life dad. The legendary actor talked about being a father to a brood, including to 16-month-old Roman with producer Noor Alfallah, in a new interview with People."
• 13 Ingredients You Should Stop Adding To Your Cocktails - "The world of mixology is wide, but not every ingredient deserves a place on your bar top. Here's why you should avoid these ingredients."
• 6 Things to Eat to Reduce Your Cancer Risk - "Swapping a better dietary pattern drops the average person’s cancer risk by 8-9%, research shows. A lean body weight reduces it by another 7-8%. Adopting an overall healthy lifestyle that includes eating more nutritious foods has the biggest effect on bringing down cancer risk, compared to any one specific healthy behavior. Here are some of the most impactful substitutions."
• Can I Use an Expired Covid Test? - "The expiration date listed on the box might not be accurate. Here’s what to know."
• Why Queen Camilla wouldn’t be seen dead using a fish knife - "Ttwo things: one is the class thing and fish knives are seen as down-market. But Buckingham Palace’s cutlery goes back to Georgian times and fish knives had not been invented then so they don’t have them by default. When fish knives came in at the end of the Victorian period they were seen as a little bit middle class. A fish knife was a “social marker that the host was a touch common” and that the Queen Mother would instead eat fish with two regular forks."
• 4 Ways to Turn Around a Bad Day - "There’s still time to salvage it."
• Billy Joel Is Selling the Mansion He First Saw While Dredging Oysters - "The celebrated musician has decided to part with the house of his wildest childhood dreams."
• How the Impressionists Became the World’s Favorite Painters & the Most Misunderstood - "Exactly 150 years ago, Monet, Degas, Renoir and their pals spurred an artistic revolution. Can we still see the defiance behind the beauty, and the schmaltz?"
• When Europe’s railroad dining cars were the height of luxury - "On October 4, 1883, the legendary Orient Express departed Gare de l’Est in Paris for the very first time, slowly winding through Europe on its way to Constantinople, as Istanbul was then known. During a seven-day round trip, the service’s 40 passengers - including several prominent writers and dignitaries - lived in mahogany-paneled comfort, whiling away the hours in smoking compartments and armchairs upholstered in soft Spanish leather."
• The Clever Way You Can Use Nespresso Pods Without A Machine - "For the easiest brewing method, simply make sure the punctured pod (or its contents) is fully submerged as you add hot water to the cup. The longer the pod is left to steep, the stronger the cup of coffee you'll have in your hands - a brew time of two to six minutes is a good window."
• iOS 18: Enhance Your Notes With These 3 New Features - "Collapsible sections allow for better organization of lengthy notes around titles and headers, making it easier to navigate complex documents."
• Mapped: Global Real Estate Bubble Risk in 2024 - "This graphic shows the cities with the highest real estate bubble risk, based on the UBS Global Real Estate Bubble Index 2024."
• The World’s Best Single Malt Scotch From The Top Whisky Competitions - "Here is a list of 20 top rated single malt Scotch whiskies that have consistently won gold medals in major spirit competitions. Each can claim the title World’s Best Scotch! Which one is your pick?"

October 10, 2024

• In pictures: Hurricane Milton unleashes its fury - "Less than two weeks after Hurricane Helene left more than 230 people dead in the Southeast, another massive hurricane is now lashing Florida. Hurricane Milton made landfall near Siesta Key on Wednesday night as a Category 3 storm, bringing extreme rainfall, high winds and widespread power outages. It could become one of the most destructive storms on record for Florida’s Gulf Coast, and its disastrous impacts are being felt over much of the state."
• How a year of war laid waste the Gaza Strip - visualised - "Maps, charts and satellite images show damage to buildings across the Gaza Strip since the conflict with Israel began."
• Elon Musk is promising to unveil the future of Tesla tonight - "Elon Musk and Tesla have pledged a game-changing moment in the company’s history Thursday night. It remains to be seen if they will actually deliver."
• The ten most popular songs to die to, from Sinatra to Cyndi Lauper - "Marie Curie says music can help the dying connect with what it means to be human. Their playlist shows some want sombre reflection and some still want to have fun. The top ten: 1. My Way, Frank Sinatra. 2. I Will Always Love, Whitney Houston. 3. The Best, Tina Turner. 4. Over the Rainbow, Judy Garland. 5. Girls Just Want to Have Fun, Cyndi Lauper. 6. Angels, Robbie Williams. 7. What a Wonderful World, Louis Armstrong. 8. Beautiful, Christina Aguilera. 9. Hey Jude, The Beatles. 10. These Are the Days of Our Lives, Queen."
• Han Kang wins Nobel Prize in literature for ‘intense poetic prose’ confronting human fragility - "The 2024 Nobel Prize in literature has been awarded to Han Kang, a South Korean author, for her 'intense poetic prose that confronts historical traumas and exposes the fragility of human life.' Han, 53, began her career with a group of poems in a South Korean magazine, before making her prose debut in 1995 with a short story collection."
• The 100 Best Books of the 21st Century - "As voted on by 503 novelists, nonfiction writers, poets, critics and other book lovers - with a little help from the staff of The New York Times Book Review."
• Covid-19 may increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes & deaths for three years after an infection, study suggests - "The study was published Wednesday in the medical journal Atherosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology. It relied on medical records from roughly a quarter of a million people who were enrolled in a large database called the UK Biobank."
• The world's sixth 'Blue Zone': Why Singapore values both quantity & quality of life - "When it comes to longevity, few places in the world have seen such a drastic jump in life expectancy as the island city-state in Southeast Asia."
• How your brain decides what to eat when you travel - "Why it’s OK to crave the taste of home when you travel."
• The Oldest Photograph of the Acropolis - "In the distant year of 1842, French photographer and draughtsman Joseph-Philibert Girault de Prangey took the first-ever photograph of the 'Holy Rock.' To be more precise, this photograph is a daguerreotype, and is actually one of the earliest surviving photographs of Greece."
• Ranked: How Much It Costs to Charge an EV in Europe, by Country - "This chart shows the average cost to charge an electric car for 25 minutes per 100 km at a public station in various European countries. Data is sourced from the European Alternative Fuels Observatory (EAFO), as of 2024."
• Here Are All of the Apple Intelligence Features in iOS 18.1 - "Apple will soon release iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1, and these updates will bring the first Apple Intelligence features for compatible iPhones, iPads, and Macs: Writing Tools - Siri - Mail - Messages - Photos - Transcription Summaries - Focus Modes."
• iOS 18: Send Messages Without a Wi-Fi or Cellular Connection - "In iOS 18, Apple further enhanced its satellite connectivity features for iPhone users with the introduction of Messages via satellite. Keep reading to learn how it works. Open the Settings app on your iPhone. - Scroll down and tap Apps, then tap Messages. - Scroll down and tap Satellite Connection Demo."
• 10 Ways to Extend Your Apple Watch Battery Life - "Make your old Apple Watch last through the day, or even longer: Turn off the Always On Display - Disable Background App Refresh - Disable cellular connectivity ..."
• Indian tycoon Ratan Tata dies aged 86 - "Tata was one of India's most internationally recognised business leaders. The Tata Group is one of India's largest companies, with annual revenues in excess of $100bn."
• ‘Coolest job on Earth’: Antarctica welcomes new postmaster - "UK Antarctic Heritage Trust fills vacancy at world’s most southerly post office, as well as recruiting team to monitor wildlife and carry out building repairs."

October 9, 2024

• Milton restrengthens to Category 5 as residents flee Florida - "Hurricane Milton barrels toward Florida, could be one of most destructive storms on record."
• See the Ocean Heat Fueling Hurricane Milton, in One Chart - "The waters of the Atlantic Ocean have been abnormally warm, providing copious amounts of energy that can intensify storms."
• ‘Climate Havens’ Don’t Exist - "The worst damage from Hurricane Helene came in areas that were expected to be relatively immune to the effects of climate change."
• 13 Things We Learned From Harris’s Interview With Howard Stern - "In a lengthy sit-down, the veteran radio host extracted an array of new details about Kamala Harris's life."
• I’m a Doctor. ChatGPT’s Bedside Manner Is Better Than Mine - "My job is no longer safe."
• Anthony Fauci: A Mosquito in My Backyard Made Me the Sickest I’ve Ever Been - "What it's like to get the neglected disease. After I spent more than 50 years chasing and fighting viruses, one fought back and nearly took me down. I speak of the West Nile virus, delivered by the deadliest animal on the planet: the mosquito."
• The mountain that reaches higher than Everest - "Climbing the world’s other highest mountain – no sherpas required. Mount Chimborazo is the highest peak in Ecuador. It's also the closest point on Earth to the stars."
• ‘I am not Satoshi Nakamoto’: Subject of HBO documentary denies he invented bitcoin - "The identity of bitcoin creator Satoshi Nakamoto has long been one of the biggest mysteries of the internet age. A new HBO documentary, 'Money Electric: The Bitcoin Mystery,' claims to have an answer."
• 10 Reasons to Wait for Next Year's iPhone 17 - "If you plan to skip this year's iPhone 16, or if you're just plain curious about what's on the horizon, here are 10 rumored features that we are expecting to arrive in time for its successor, the iPhone 17 series, which is likely to be released in September 2025."
• Math just got easier - here’s how to use Math Notes in iOS 18 - "iOS 18 just made math a whole lot easier: 1. Open the Calculator app. 2. Access the extended menu. 3. Enable Math Notes. 4. Activate the writing mode. 5. Hand writing mode."
• Meta smart glasses can be used to dox anyone in seconds, study finds - "Linking Meta smart glasses to a face search engine can ID strangers in a glance."
• Meta AI Smart glasses - "Hey Meta! Ask Meta AI. Never miss a beat. Get the information you need in a moment, right from the glasses with voice-activated AI. Ask to take a photo and Meta AI will tell you what you’re looking at, whether you’re curious about a landmark in a new city or need to translate a sign in a different language. Want a clever caption to go with your latest capture? Ask Meta AT to generate one for you."
• Chanel Just Unveiled a Watch Necklace That Lets You Listen to Music & Take Calls - "The Première Sound features a steel necklace coated with 18-karat gold that is interwoven with a black leather audio cable and is powered by Master & Dynamic. The Première Sound Watch has landed at selected Chanel boutiques."
• How Big Should a Handbag Be? - "A reader wonders if it’s better to carry a small bag or a large one. Our critic explains the relationship between purse size and power."
• 10 Ancient Technologies That Are Still a Mystery Today - "1. Antikythera, the Ancient Computer - 2. Timeless Durability of the Roman Concrete - 3. The Baffling Baghdad Battery - 4. The Incredible Precision ..."
• The Mercedes S-Class - A Short History - "How the Mercedes S-Class Became the Most Famous Luxury Sedan in the World. The history of the automotive world is full of large, luxurious sedans - but only one sits at the top of the Mercedes-Benz pantheon."

October 8, 2024

• Marking a year since 7 October attacks - in pictures - "Candlelight vigils and memorial services in Israel and around the world mark the anniversary of the 7 October attacks by Hamas."
• Mass exodus underway along Florida’s Gulf Coast as Hurricane Milton approaches - "South Florida meteorologist becomes emotional on air while speaking about Milton's incredible intensity."
• In pictures: Hurricane Milton heads for impact - "Less than two weeks after Hurricane Helene wrought a path of destruction that left more than 230 people dead in the Southeast, another massive hurricane is projected to barrel into western Florida. Hurricane Milton rapidly intensified earlier in the week to a Category 5 and is expected to make landfall near Tampa as a major Category 3 hurricane, bringing destructive flooding and life-threatening storm surge."
• Why a ‘go bag’ can mean the difference between life or death during a disaster - "A 'go bag' full of emergency supplies can save you critical time when you're rushing out the door. These items could mean the difference between life or death."
• 5 takeaways from Kamala Harris’ one-on-one interview with ‘60 Minutes’ - "Vice President Kamala Harris faced tough questions about how she’d pay for her economic plans, whether Democrats were too slow to enact border security measures, how she’d confront Russia over its war in Ukraine and more in a wide-ranging '60 Minutes' interview that aired Monday."
• Donald Trump, You Lucky Dog - "It's unnerving how many fortunate things have happened to this guy. There are lists of Donald Trump’s lies and lists of his alleged crimes. But the catalog of all the good things that have happened to the former president is equally unnerving."
• Lucky Loser: How Donald Trump Squandered His Father's Fortune and Created the Illusion of Success - "'A first-rate financial thriller . . . Lucky Loser is one of those rare Trump books that deserve, even demand, to be read.' - Alexander Nazaryan, The New York Times. From the Pulitzer Prize-winning reporters behind the 2018 bombshell New York Times exposé of then-President Trump’s finances, an explosive investigation into the history of Donald Trump’s wealth, revealing how one of the country’s biggest business failures lied his way into the White House."
• The ‘Crypto Punks’ Behind Trump’s Murky New Business Venture - "The serial entrepreneurs behind Donald J. Trump’s new cryptocurrency project have left a trail of lawsuits, unpaid debt and tax liens. Mr. Herro and Mr. Folkman are the forces behind World Liberty Financial, a cryptocurrency venture that Mr. Trump and his three sons announced on a livestream last month. The company’s promotional materials, reviewed by The New York Times, called 18-year-old Barron Trump a crypto 'visionary.'"
• Why Taylor Swift is a literary giant - by a Shakespeare professor - "Sir Jonathan Bate is a world authority on the Bard - and a long-time fanboy of the American singer. Here, he shall compare her (favourably) to the greats of poetry and prose. Plus, play our lyric-guessing game."
• Rises in life expectancy have slowed dramatically, analysis finds - "An analysis of death data from the world's longest-lived populations reveals that the rapid improvements in life expectancy achieved in the 20th century have slowed dramatically in the past three decades."
• ‘Godfather’ of AI wins Nobel Prize in physics - "The 2024 Nobel Prize in physics has been awarded to John Hopfield and Geoffrey Hinton for their 'foundational discoveries' that enable machine learning with artificial neural networks."
• Why Joker: Folie À Deux's mega budget spelled disaster - "The comic book sequel has bombed at the box office - but what makes its performance even more catastrophic is its astronomical cost, estimated to be more than three times the original. It's one of those debacles that must have seemed like a good idea at the time."
• How Everyone Got Lost in Netflix’s Endless Library - "Ten years after Silicon Valley remade TV, it’s become clear how the streaming revolution distorted our collective viewing habits - and sense of the culture. Netflix is the purest expression of the streaming model, and the force that summoned the others over the ledge, as Netflix’s 183 billion viewer hours in 2023 can attest."
• This 100% Rotten Tomato-Rated Noir Thriller Helped Change Society for the Better - "Victim, a critically acclaimed 1961 noir thriller helped kickstart the decriminalization of homosexuality."
• China penalizes European brandy in tit-for-tat response - "China imposed temporary anti-dumping measures on brandy imports from the European Union on Tuesday, hitting brands from Hennessy to Remy Martin, after the 27-state bloc voted for tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles (EVs). Shares in Pernod Ricard were down 4.2% at 4:39 a.m. ET, while Remy Cointreau’s dropped 8.7% and shares in LVMH, owner of Hennessy, fell 4.9%."
• Alexander the Great & the Legendary Gordian Knot - "The cutting of the Gordian Knot by Alexander became a metaphor for solving difficult problems by employing simple, drastic solutions."

October 7, 2024

• Who are the hostages still in Gaza? Israel’s missing & dead in photos - "A year on from October 7, nearly 100 people are still in Hamas captivity. Use the interactive graphic to read their stories."
• One year in Israel since the 7 October attack - photo essay - "Photographer for Getty Images Amir Levy talks about some of his most powerful images taken throughout the year since the 7 October attack by Hamas."
• How Israel has made trauma a weapon of war - "A year later, memorials to the 7 October attacks use art, virtual reality and dark tourism to stir support for limitless violence. But there is a different way to remember."
• It is still 90 seconds to midnight - "This year, the Science and Security Board of the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists leaves the hands of the Doomsday Clock unchanged due to ominous trends that continue to point the world toward global catastrophe."
• Cocaine ‘used in Europe two centuries earlier than thought’ - "Mummified bodies dating from 17th century reveal traces of the drug."
• Cannabis Has Become Upscale Chic. I Miss the Old Red-Eyed Stoners - "Widespread legalization has created a polished new market for cannabis products — one that’s trendy, spalike and weirdly unfun."
• This iOS 18 bookshelf trend for Home Screens is ridiculously cute - "The idea: use a bookshelf wallpaper on your iPhone, with app icons scattered around the various shelves. Creators fueling the bookshelf trend."
• 10 things your iphone can do with ios 18.1 - "1. Proof reading: iOS 18.1's new Writing Tools feature includes a powerful proofreading function. It not only checks for spelling and grammar errors but also suggests improvements in word choice and sentence structure."
• Forget sit-ups - this 10-minute standing ab workout is great for your core strength & posture - "Get fitter with this kit-free workout. Use this low-impact standing abs workout to boost your core strength and improve your posture in just 10 minutes without any equipment."
• Tired of Walking to Stay Lean? Try These 10 Quick Moves Instead - "If you're tired of walking, these exercises will help spruce up your cardio routine."
• Dubai’s Emirates airline bans pagers, walkie-talkies after device attacks in Lebanon - "'All Passengers travelling on flights to, from or via Dubai are prohibited from transporting pagers and walkie talkies in checked or cabin baggage,' the airline wrote in a statement posted on its website Friday."
• Oasis on the Adriatic where Ukrainians & Russians have gone to escape war - "Beyond the EU, Montenegro has let in in more than 200,000 Ukrainians, making it the highest per capita Ukrainian refugee population in the world. Since February 2022, Ukrainian refugees and Russian exiles have fanned out across Europe, fleeing war, conscription and Vladimir Putin’s rule."
• Al Pacino reveals he almost died of Covid & delivers his verdict on the afterlife - "The 84-year-old actor speaks about contracting the virus in 2020, saying he ‘didn’t have a pulse’ and came to with six paramedics in his house."
• Paris Hilton Is Becoming a Fixture at Walmart - "A new line of handbags expands the offerings of her brand at the big-box chain. Plus, rare Birkenstocks and a pink suit you may have seen."
• ‘Elephants show immense interest in corpses’ - "Susana Monsó, the philosopher examining what animals know about death. Do other species understand that life ends? Do they mourn and even bury their dead? The Spanish academic and writer is looking for answers."
• The human towers of Tarragona - in pictures - "Catalans compete to build the biggest human towers in Spain."

October 6, 2024

• 5 Nobel-worthy discoveries that haven’t won the prize - "The best minds in science will be thrust from academic obscurity into the spotlight next week when the Nobel Prizes in physics, chemistry, and physiology or medicine are announced. The accolades, established by Swedish industrialist Alfred Nobel more than a century ago, celebrate groundbreaking work that can take decades to complete."
• Time stood still, Trump says at site of assassination attempt - "Nearly three months after an assassin’s bullet came close to taking his life, former President Donald Trump returned to Butler, Pennsylvania - a place of 'tragedy and heartache' - to promise his supporters victory in the 5 November presidential election."
• This city is getting thousands more CCTV cameras despite being among the world’s safest. Why? - "Hong Kong plans to install thousands of surveillance cameras. Critics say it’s more proof the city is moving closer to China."
• ‘Vertical neighborhood’: Step inside the world’s best new skyscraper - "‘Hotel in nature’: Inside the world’s best new skyscraper. Singapore's Pan Pacific Orchard has just been named the world's best new high-rise building by the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat."
• Mark Zuckerberg joins exclusive $200 billion club, is second-richest person in world - "The Meta CEO is now the second-richest person in the world, overtaking Jeff Bezos and Bernard Arnault. With a personal fortune of $206 billion, according to recent figures from Bloomberg’s Billionaire Index, he now only trails Elon Musk."
• ‘It’s all I think about’: Stanley Tucci on love, grief & pasta - "Screen favourite, cocktail maker, cancer survivor, sex symbol... Stanley Tucci is a man of many parts. The ‘Tooch’ discusses fame, his new book - and the perils of cooking for children."
• Social media isn’t driving the plastic surgery boom. Who doesn’t want to look better? - "Vanity is a basic instinct, but women and men are risking their lives as cosmetic procedures become cheaper."
• ‘I have to have one of those’: plushie super-fans explain the appeal - "For 25 years the company, built by two publicity-shy British brothers, has turned everything from bears to burgers into ‘plushies’. Avid fans explain their appeal."
• 20 Great Detective Novels Worth Investigating - "Dashiell Hammett’s The Maltese Falcon is the gold standard of hardboiled detective fiction, with terse prose and gritty realism that impacted the future of crime fiction."
• 34 Things That Frequent Travelers Use While Traveling (So Maybe You Should, Too) - "Frequent travelers are experts when it comes to knowing what to pack, so take it from them that these are worth buying before your next trip."
• 32 Things That'll Help You Make Smart Packing Choices For Your Next Trip - "It's true - the key to a successful trip is packing smarter, not harder."
• 23 Travel Products You'll Honestly Be Mad You Didn't Know About Before Now - "If your step count on vacation is 'too many,' you need to invest in these tingling masks for achy feet, stat."

October 5, 2024

• ‘Thirsty’ ChatGPT uses four times more water than previously thought - "The massive computer clusters powering artificial intelligence consume vast quantities to answer the world’s queries, but how is Big Tech redressing the balance? Using the chatbot for between ten to 50 queries consumes about two litres of water."
• Ranked: The World’s Most Innovative Countries in 2024 - "The Global Innovation Index (GII) 2024, ranks 133 economies based on their innovation capabilities and performance. This year’s report highlights shifts in global innovation leadership, with a focus on emerging economies challenging traditional leaders. The GII measures each economy based on seven underlying innovation pillars, which altogether comprise 78 indicators."
• 10 remarkable wildlife experiences around the world - "From a horseback safari in Brazil to one of the marine world's most flamboyant sex shows, these wildlife encounters allow travellers to come face to face with animals – without getting too close."
• Turku: Finland's under-the-radar Nordic destination - "Considered the gateway to the world's largest archipelago and renowned for its food scene, Finland's second city is well worth a detour."
• Never-ending odyssey: the rise of perpetual cruises that offer the very wealthy a new home at sea - "After numerous delays, the Odyssey finally sets sail from Belfast for three-and- a-half years - but what drives people to spend a fortune living full-time on luxury liners?"
• We brewed dozens of cups of coffee & these are the best moka pots - "The Best Moka Pots, According to Our Home Tests. Manual or electric, these classic coffee brewers blend functionality with finesse."
• The Korean Way to Make Iced Coffee Taste 10x Better - "You can add the coffee first to the ice, or the banana milk first and then the coffee. Give it a good stir, pop in your straw and enjoy a tasty, sweet drink."
• France’s three-decade treasure hunt for golden owl has finally ended - "A 31-year-long treasure hunt that drew in thousands of enthusiasts across France appeared to have come to an end Thursday, after official social media accounts linked to the search said the token needed to claim the grand prize had been found."
• Global James Bond Day - "Let the celebrations begin." Today, Saturday 5th October, is official Global James Bond Day – a celebration of 62 years of the Bond franchise. This date marks the anniversary of the release of Dr. No in 1962. This special day of celebrations first began in 2012 when the Bond films celebrated their golden anniversary with events all around the globe and the release of the theme song for Skyfall by Adele. This year the day is marked with the release of the official video for Writing’s On The Wall, the theme song for Spectre, by Sam Smith.
• 7 JAMES BOND BOOKS BETTER THAN ANY OF THE MOVIES - "These books will leave you shaken and stirred, and with a newfound appreciation for the world of 007."
• world’s smallest Rubik’s Cube & it actually works - "Each face of the cube, which is made from aluminum, measures about five millimeters (around 0.2 inches) across. Weighing just 0.3 grams (about 0.01 ounces), the puzzle is about a 1,000th of the size of the original, which measures around 2.2 inches across each face. And each side of the nine squares on the device’s six faces measures just 1.6 millimeters (around 0.06 inches). Sold at 777,777 yen ($5,320)."
• The World’s Best Single Malt Scotch Whisky, According To The IWSC - "Tomatin, Legacy Single Malt Scotch Whisky, 43% ABV was the top single malt Scotch in the No-Age-Statement (NAS) category. The International Wine & Spirits Competition has announced the four top Single Malt Scotch whiskies of 2024. All were awarded the Single Malt Scotch Whisky Trophy in their respective category."
• The Oura Ring 4 has 4 features I'm especially excited about - "The latest generation of Oura's standard-setting wearable is packed with hardware and software upgrades. See which four are most worthy of your attention: 1. No more uncomfortable sensor domes. 2. Eight days of battery life. 3. Expanded sizing. 4. Daytime Stress gets a useful upgrade."

October 4, 2024

• There are six requirements to get Apple Intelligence features - "1: A compatible device. 2: The proper software update. 3: Approval off the AI waitlist. 4: 4GB of free iPhone storage. 5: A device set to US English. 6: Residence outside the EU and China."
• Scientists looked at images from space to see how fast Antarctica is turning green - "Parts of icy Antarctica are turning green with plant life at an alarming rate as the region is gripped by extreme heat events, according to new research, sparking concerns about the changing landscape on this vast continent."
• I flew on China’s answer to the Airbus. Here’s what that was like - "The C919 is China’s answer to the A320. But what is it like onboard? Long touted as a potential game-changer in global commercial aviation, the C919 is COMAC’s answer to the Boeing 737 and the Airbus A320 - two of the world’s best-selling aircraft types."
• A home on a private island paradise in Belize could be yours - for $4.5 million - "Four Seasons Hotel & Resorts is set to turn Caye Chapel - a private island off the coast of Belize, in Central America - into a luxury club community with residences, estates, a five-star hotel and a championship golf course. It is scheduled to open in 2025. "
• Hotel Awards 2024: the world's 36 best hotels - "It's been an epic year for hotel openings, revamps and extensions, and we've scoured the globe for the best of them. We searched the planet for the world’s best hotels. Here are our picks. From a jungle treehouse in Mexico to a California-inspired sun ranch in Australia, these are the best new and improved hotels, according to National Geographic Traveller (UK)'s annual Hotel Awards."
• How to make your food more nutritious with these 23 tiny tweaks - "From adding chickpeas to your meals to microwaving your veg, these small changes will boost your nutrition."
• Brain scans reveal appeal of the Girl with a Pearl Earring - "Scientists tracking brainwaves and eye movement find that Vermeer's masterpiece ensnares the admirer in a 'sustained visual loop'."
• Jeff Bezos Says the 1-Hour Rule Makes Him Smarter. New Neuroscience Says He’s Right - "Jeff Bezos's morning routine has long included the one-hour rule. New neuroscience says yours probably should too."
• For More Plant-Based Protein in Your Diet, Try These Legumes - "Legumes are a key source of plant-based protein in the Mediterranean diet; one cup of cooked beans, lentils or peas contains about 15 grams of protein. You don’t even need to turn on the stove."
• The Thrifty Ingredient That Makes Weeknight Cooking So Much Easier - "The humble lentil is a quick-cooking kitchen powerhouse. All these different types of lentils can be cooked the same way."
• How Your Protein Needs Change as You Age - "Your protein requirements will fluctuate throughout your life. Protein recommendations for older adults are currently the same as those for younger adults, but some evidence suggests that those 65 and older may benefit from consuming more - at least 0.45 to 0.54 grams per pound. Here’s a stage-by-stage guide to help you hit your goals."
• The Oura Ring 4 has slimmer sensors, increased accuracy & more sizes - "On top of better accuracy, the company says the new algorithm also improves battery life to up to eight days, depending on the size of the ring. The app is getting a total makeover as well."
• The 11 Most Beautiful Modernist Buildings in the World - "Designed by visionaries such as Frank Lloyd Wright, I.M. Pei, and Le Corbusier, these structures reinvented architecture as it was then known."
• THE 10 BEST TECH GADGETS OF AUGUST 2024 - "From a Nokia phone concept with a pill-shaped form to a Tri-Fold smartphone from Huawei - we’ve curated a collection of 10 best tech gadgets for you! If you’re a tech lover exploring innovations, or someone who simply wants to elevate their tech gear - these exceptional gadgets will surely impress and inspire you."
• Omega’s New Seamaster Regatta Is a Tool Watch an Elite Sailor Can Actually Use - "Tool watches have largely become anachronistic play-things, but this hulking titanium regatta timer from Omega is the real deal."

October 3, 2024

• 36 key lines to explain the Vance-Walz vice presidential debate - "The vice presidential debate between Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota and Sen. JD Vance of Ohio was a civil and policy-oriented affair, and it included some important developments. Both men admitted they had been wrong on past comments."
• How We Chose the 2024 TIME100 Next - "TIME released its fourth annual list of 100 emerging leaders who are shaping the future. Here's how we chose the 2024 TIME100 Next."
• A junk dealer found a painting in a basement. Experts say it’s an original Picasso - "A painting discovered by a junk dealer in the basement of an Italian villa six decades ago is actually the work of Pablo Picasso and could sell for millions, according to experts. In 1962, he found a rolled-up canvas with an asymmetrical painting of a woman in the basement of the villa on the nearby island of Capri."
• 17 travel essentials for frequent flyers in 2024 - "I flew over 200,000 miles last year. While each traveler has their own set of indispensable items, these are my favorite travel essentials that don’t leave my side when I take to the skies."
• The most spectacular medieval towns in Italy - "Our top 5 most beautiful medieval towns and villages from across Italy: 1. Positano, Salerno. 2. Cortona, Arezzo (Tuscany). 3. Matera, Basilicata. 4. Volterra, Pisa (Tuscany). 5. Pitigliano, Grosseto (Tuscany)."
• Why the mega-rich Cotswolds set want the new posh postcode - "Grog table, boot room, dog beds: how to get the upscale Cotswolds look. Would Simon Mills’s modest home get the seal of approval from Katy and Milo Campbell - her clientele must provide proof that they have at least £1 million to spend - house-hunters to the one-percent? CV36 is ‘north Cotswolds’,” Katy says, explaining the code’s appeal - its proximity to Birmingham airport (convenient for flights to one’s third property in France or Italy), the fast train service to London from Banbury."
• The 10 Most Expensive Champagnes in the World (2024) - "Discover the most expensive Champagne wines of 2024, according to Wine-Searcher: Louis Roederer Cristal 'Gold Medallion' Orfevres Limited Edition Brut Millésime. - Jacques Selosse Millésime. - Louis Roederer Cristal Vinothèque Edition Brut Rosé Millésimé. - Jacques Selosse 'Origine' Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Brut. - Krug Clos du Mesnil Blanc de Blancs Brut."
• Apple’s A.I. Is Landing Soon on iPhones. Here’s What It’s Like - "The initial version of Apple Intelligence focuses on helping you with words and photos. Prepare to be impressed and unnerved."
• How to control an iPad with your iPhone - "Even though iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 are full of new features, the ability to control an iPad with an iPhone remotely is a bit limited. Here’s how to control an iPad with your iPhone and what you can do with it: 1. With both devices connected to the same network, open the Settings app on your iPhone; 2. Under Accessibility, tap Control Nearby Devices; 3. A list will appear with all the Apple devices you can control with your iPhone; 4. Tap the name of the device and start controlling it."
• New Critical Password Warning - 86% Of All Router Users Need To Act Now - "If you are reading this, you are almost certainly doing so without realizing you could be leaving the door open to hackers. New research has revealed that an astonishing 86% of broadband users have little idea about cybersecurity, or at least the security of the device they use to connect to the internet."
• How to Actually Enjoy Wearing a Suit, According to Sir Paul Smith - "The legendary designer believes you should never take your tailoring too seriously."
• ‘Desperate Housewives’ at 20: Why Bree Van de Kamp’s style still reigns - "With her witty one-liners, meticulous style and comically stoic demeanor, it’s easy to see why ‘Desperate Housewives’ Bree Van de Kamp became a fan favorite among viewers when it debuted 20 years ago today."
• The fierce battle over the 'Holy Grail' of shipwrecks - "It has been hailed as the most valuable shipwreck in the world. A Spanish galleon, the San José, was sunk by the British off the coast of Colombia more than 300 years ago. It had a cargo of gold, silver and emeralds worth billions of dollars."
• Real art in museums stimulates brain much more than reprints, study finds - "Scientists in Netherlands using eye-tracking and MRI scans found ‘enormous difference’ between genuine works and posters."
• The Best Trend of Fashion Month. And the Worst - "Louis Vuitton, Chanel and Miu Miu bring Paris Fashion Week to a close with some important takeaways."
• Is That a Panda? Or a Dog in Disguise? - "Zoos around the world have occasionally used a little dye, or just brazenness, to pass off one animal as another."

October 2, 2024

• Elon Musk’s X is worth nearly 80% less than when he bought it, Fidelity estimates - "The social media platform formerly known as Twitter is worth almost 80% less than two years ago when Elon Musk bought it, according to estimates from investment giant Fidelity. X no longer trades publicly after Musk shelled out $44 billion to take it private in October 2022."
• Wag the Dog to All the President's Men: 10 of the best films about US presidential elections - "The tension is building in the race for the White House - and that tension runs through Hollywood's most gripping political dramas, comedies and documentaries."
• The only place where whales come to watch you - "Once nearly hunted to extinction, Pacific gray whales in Mexico's Laguna San Ignacio now seem to be as curious about us as we are about them."
• October will be big for Apple products, here’s what’s coming next - "Apple has plenty more announcements and product launches to make. Here’s what’s coming next: iOS 18.1 and Apple Intelligence public launch, M4 MacBook Pros, M4 Mac mini, iPad mini 7, M4 iMac, hopefully with USB-C accessories, iOS 18.2 beta with new AI features, Wildcard: New 10.9-inch base iPad, Apple’s next launches: wrap-up."
• How has the digital nomad trend evolved over the years? - "Whether seen as a positive or a negative, the digital nomad trend continues with new visas and organisations aimed at this population popping up around the world."
• Naomi Campbell’s charity reported to commission over Unicef link-up claims - "The model Naomi Campbell’s Fashion for Relief project was the subject of a 'serious incident' report filed with the Charity Commission after it claimed to be a fundraising partner of Unicef, it has emerged. Unicef UK said it had never been a partner of Fashion for Relief."
• The ultimate gambler? How Denise Coates became Britain’s richest woman - "She is the mastermind behind Bet365, the company that made it possible to gamble online any hour of the day or night. With a family fortune of £7.5bn, she pays her taxes and donates to charity. But is there a wider human cost to her huge success?"
• WHY WEALTHY BRITS ARE CHOOSING MONACO OVER LONDON - "Monaco, the glamorous Mediterranean enclave, has long been a preferred destination for the world’s elite. With its glittering marina, luxury lifestyle, and impeccable safety record, it’s no wonder that it continues to attract the wealthy. But recently, the Principality has become even more enticing for British expats who are choosing to leave the UK in response to new tax regulations. With the government’s plans to phase out the 'non-dom' tax status, a growing number of wealthy Brits are opting for Monaco over London."
• The Third Realm by Karl Ove KnausgÅrd review - a visionary epic - "Book three in the Norwegian novelist’s Morning Star series takes in devils, black metal and revelation, and provides a masterclass in what fiction can offer."
• We tested six smart rings & there’s a clear winner - "So which smart ring is the best? To find out, I called in six smart rings currently on the market: the Oura Ring, Ultrahuman Ring Air, Circular Slim, Samsung Galaxy Ring, RingConn, and Evie Ring. Only one ring could rule them all."
• I’m a Chef. This Grain Should Be the Next Quinoa - "As climate change threatens the availability of global staples like wheat, rice and potatoes, we must diversify what’s on the plate."
• Why I Write My Own Obituary Every Year - "It's not as maudlin as it might seem. If you take a few minutes to try it, you might find the same."
• Want better coffee at home? I asked 3 coffee experts for their top tips - "Every coffee enthusiast needs to know these top tips."
• Loewe launches its first ever espresso machine & it’s as stylish as you’d imagine - "Luxury German technology brand, Loewe has just launched its first ever espresso machine. Called the Loewe aura.pure, the new coffee machine has an integrated grinder with over 60 settings to choose from, to make perfect and precise coffee every time - and it’s easily the most stylish coffee maker I’ve ever seen."

October 1, 2024

• International Coffee Day (1 October) - occasion that is used to promote and celebrate coffee as a beverage, with events now occurring in places around the world.
• Jimmy Carter is setting a new record for American presidents. It’s important for everyone - "Jimmy Carter sets a new record on October 1, his birthday, when he will become the first American president to reach triple digits. It’s a milestone more and more Americans will reach in the years to come - and something the American social safety net is not prepared for."
• How Japan’s Shinkansen bullet trains changed the world of rail travel forever - "Sixty years ago, early in the morning of October 1, 1964, a sleek blue and white train slid effortlessly across the urban sprawl of Tokyo, its elevated tracks carrying it south toward the city of Osaka and a place in the history books. In the six decades since that first train, the word Shinkansen – meaning “new trunk line” – has become an internationally recognized byword for speed, travel efficiency and modernity."
• Decades before Tinder, these Harvard students invented a ‘computer dating’ service that transformed matchmaking - "'Your business is our pleasure. Your pleasure is our business.' This was the slogan hung outside a Harvard dorm room in 1965, marking the headquarters of the first computer matchmaking service in the US. Decades before Tinder and OK Cupid, there was Operation Match. ‘It felt risqué:’ How a computer dating service launched in 1965 changed our love lives."
• I Spent Two Nights at Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin & Found His Spirit Everywhere - "If Taliesin is an 'architectural autobiography,' then sleeping in the home made me reevaluate the American legend."
• 6 things stylish people always do with their interiors - learn from the experts on how to elevate your home - "There are some common themes that the world's most stylish fall back on, and these tricks will elevate every home."
• iOS 18: Master the New Search Features in the Photos App - "Apple's iOS 18 update brings powerful new search functions to the Photos app, allowing you to find specific images with unprecedented precision. Here's how to make the most of its new capabilities."
• A New Luxurious Hospitality Style Emerges In Paris - "Today’s top-tiered travelers and digital nomads seem to seek not just a room, not just a suite, and not even just an apartment. They clamor for a sort of ideal home away from home, with privacy but enough human connection to make them feel welcome. Enter Guillaume Lange, Co-Founder and President of 1.75 Paris whose plan is to open a luxurious collection of 'maisons' throughout the City of Lights. The company is named for the average distance, in meters, between a host’s two hands while they stretch their arms as far as possible to welcome guests, what we call homespitality."
• 1.75 Paris - "Paris welcomes you with open arms. MADE-TO-MEASURE PARISIAN HOSPITALITY." When was the last time you felt truly at home, while being away from home? To capture that uniquely magical feeling, we’ve recently designed a new collection of home-away-from-home luxury residences set in the heart of the French capital. We call it 1.75 Paris.
• Why Do So Many Women Wear Giant Eyeglasses? - "A reader wonders why more women start opting for chunky frames at a certain age. Our fashion critic explains the appeal."
• The Truth About Tuna - "How much should you worry about mercury in tuna and other seafood? Experts weigh in."
• Vintage Shopping Is Booming. Banana Republic & Others Get In on the Action - "Last year, apparel resale in the United States grew seven times the rate of the broader retail industry. Independent resellers and corporate giants are getting creative to meet the demand."
• Which Countries Are the Healthiest in 2024? - "The health of nations is shaped by many interconnected factors, from healthcare system quality to lifestyle and diet. We rank the health of 24 leading nations in 2024. These figures are represented by z-scores, where the number represents how many standard deviations a country is above or below the average."
• Ranked: Worst Cities For Rush Hour Traffic Worldwide - "This chart shows the 15 worst cities around the world for traffic congestion in 2023, ranked by the average number of hours lost to traffic congestion per driver when driving during peak commute hours compared to driving during off-peak hours in 2023."

September 30, 2024

• iOS 18 Cheat Sheet: Everything to Know About the iPhone Update - "Here's how to use all the features that just landed on your iPhone."
• 'Special' singer & actor Kris Kristofferson dies - "Tributes have been paid to Kris Kristofferson, the award-winning country singer and actor following his death at the age of 88."
• Kris Kristofferson - a life in pictures - "The US country singer and actor has died aged 88. The Texas-born Grammy winner wrote songs including Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down and Me and Bobby McGee. He was a member of the supergroup the Highwaymen and starred in 70 films over his career."
• The electrolytes boom: a wonder supplement - or an unnecessary expense? - "Everyone from triathletes to YouTubers is singing the praises of the super-hydrating mineral additives. Here are the benefits and disadvantages."
• Visualizing the Sugar Content of Popular U.S. Drinks - "This graphic visualizes the amount of sugar in popular drinks, as cubes. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), the average American consumes 17 teaspoons (roughly 71 grams) of sugar per day. This amount is over double the recommended limit of 6 teaspoons (25 grams) for women and 9 teaspoons (38 grams) for men. Sugary drinks especially raise some red flags, as they represent a market of nearly $400 billion in annual sales."
• Melting glaciers force Switzerland & Italy to redraw part of Alpine border - "Two countries agree to modifications beneath Matterhorn peak, one of Europe’s highest summits."
• Monaco YACHT SHOW CONCLUDES AMIDST DAZZLING DISPLAYS & INNOVATIVE CREATIONS - "The curtain falls on the highly anticipated Monaco Yacht Show this weekend, wrapping up four days of opulence, innovation, and maritime craftsmanship. As the sun sets on the event, several standout yachts emerged, capturing the attention of both attendees and the media. One of the stars of the show was the KISMET, a magnificent 122-metre vessel built by luxury yacht builder Lürssen."
• A ‘Perfect’ Take on Nantucket Style? - "Scrutinizing the costumes in Netflix’s 'The Perfect Couple.'"
• Absolutely A-list Alessandro: the wild world of Valentino’s new man - "He made Gucci the most covetable label in the world. Can he do it again?"
• The Buzz on Boat Shoes - "The category of footwear created when Franklin D. Roosevelt was president is being reinterpreted and rediscovered."
• They say sea urchin is an aphrodisiac - "How to Cure My Sex Drive? For thousands of years, the Japanese have considered uni, the edible part of a sea urchin, an aphrodisiac."
• We Found the Best 9 Hidden iOS 18 Features for Your iPhone - "The new text messaging options in iOS are great, but did you know you can change the beam of your flashlight? Check out these lesser-known iOS 18 features."
• How to Make Your iPhone Messages Bold, Underlined & More in iOS 18 - "Can you use more than one text effect? You can also give your message a little flair by making the words explode, shake and more: 1. Open Messages. 2. Tap into a chat. 3. Tap the text box. 4. Write your message in full. 5. Highlight the word or words you want to add an effect to. 6. Tap the A with dashes on its left side, which can be found above the P on the keyboard. 7. Tap the formatting options or text effect you want to use."
• Here’s everything new in Reminders for iOS 18 - "Reminders in the Calendar app - Subtasks inside Smart Lists - Reorder Today list - New automation powers in Shortcuts - Recently Deleted list - Grocery shopping in multiple languages - Coming soon: Apple Intelligence for Reminders."

September 29, 2024

• where in the eu do people enjoy the longest healthiest lives? - "Malta boasts nearly universal health coverage, and older adults are less likely to have chronic health conditions than elsewhere in the EU. How to age well: People in these countries enjoy the longest years of healthy life in the EU."
• M4 MacBook Pro: Release date, specs & new features - "Here's what you need to know about the new 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro with M4, M4 Pro and M4 Max that could launch in 2024 or 2025."
• The Best Suit Brands on the Market Right Now - "From the crown jewel of the British high street to the Parisian go-to of the in-the-know: Anderson & Sheppard - Brioni - Brunello Cucinelli - Tom Ford - Armani - Drake's - Suit Supply - Oliver Spencer - Percival - Husbands - J.Crew - Marks & Spencer - Ralph Lauren."
• Mark Zuckerberg joins exclusive $200 billion club, closes in on third-richest person in world - "Watch your backs, Jeff Bezos and Bernard Arnault. Mark Zuckerberg is gaining on you. Recent figures from Bloomberg’s Billionaire Index show Zuckerberg has grown his personal fortune by a whopping $73.4 billion in 2024 to $201 billion."
• Zuckerberg Augustus: Meta’s emperor rebrands in new clothes - "Mark Zuckerberg’s new revamp is a far cry from the zip-up hoodies and suits emblematic of earlier eras of Facebook."
• The Heart-Healthy Diet Hardly Anyone Is Talking About - "The DASH diet was shown to lower blood pressure decades ago, yet few people follow it. Here’s how to give it a try."
• How Japan’s humble onigiri took over lunchtimes around the world - "For decades nori-wrapped rice dish was mainly a snack eaten at home or in a bento, but now it has come into its own."
• Secrets of the Ultimate Celebrity Photographer - "In a declining business, Kevin Mazur has thrived by gaining the trust of Beyoncé, Madonna and Taylor Swift. His motto: 'Why wouldn’t you want to make people look good?'"
• Hollywood's big boom has gone bust - "Productions are down by about 40% and entertainment industry employees say they can't find work. For over a decade, business was booming in Hollywood, with studios battling to catch up to new companies like Netflix and Hulu. But the good times ground to a halt in May 2023, when Hollywood’s writers went on strike."
• The most misunderstood Oscar winner ever - "Released 40 years ago this month, Miloš Forman's best picture-winning Amadeus is often accused of historical inaccuracies - but the film's critics could be missing the point."
• The Most Famous Cafe in Paris Preps for a New Generation - "For Les Deux Magots, 2024 is more than a milestone. Les Deux Magots began as the Colette of the mid-19th century, a purveyor of silks and notions, fashion and accessories to a stylish clientele."
• These koalas are in trouble & rescuers fear they can’t be saved - "Koalas are up power poles, on roads, in schools. Why the outlook for Australia’s listed icons remains ‘poor’."
• Owning a pet can be complicated, but it’s a signifier like no other - "A pet is a symbol of virtue, its happiness a test of our humanity. This year it’s also a marker of electability..."
• Cows help farms capture more carbon in soil, study shows - "Research also reveals that a mixture of arable crops and cattle helps improve the biodiversity of the land."
• Arrowheads reveal the presence of a mysterious army in Europe’s oldest battle - "Today, the lush, green valley surrounding the Tollense River in northeast Germany appears to be a serene place to appreciate nature. But to archaeologists, the Tollense Valley is considered Europe’s oldest battlefield 3,250 years ago."
• Covid, canal raids & May’s nostrils: six key takeaways from Boris Johnson’s memoir - "Former PM likens Keir Starmer to ‘a bullock having a thermometer unexpectedly shoved in its rectum’ in Unleashed."

September 28, 2024

• iOS 18.1 has the first Apple Intelligence features, here’s what’s coming - "Writing Tools: Use systemwide tools to proofread, rewrite, or reformat your text. Clean Up in Photos: Remove unwanted objects from your photos with ease. Create a Memory movie in Photos: Type a description, and AI will create a new Memory movie on demand."
• Michelin stars could be the ultimate kiss of death for restaurants - "A report says that because the accolade brings higher costs and more stress, restaurants that have been awarded stars are more likely to close than those without."
• ‘You can’t build muscle as a vegan’ & 13 other plant-based myths, busted - "Veganism: boring and expensive but always the most ethical choice, right? Wrong, say our experts, who tackle misconceptions about plant-based eating."
• 49 easy ways to improve your life - from our experts - "How to de-stress instantly, bake a foolproof loaf and mix the perfect martini - the best ever experts’ tips from Joe Wicks, Raymond Blanc, Jane MacQuitty and more."
• Trump debuts new product line: Watches selling for up to $100,000 - "Donald Trump announced a new merchandise line on Thursday: A line of watches selling for up to $100,000 each. In a Truth Social post, the former president described the timepieces as 'truly special' and suggested one 'would make a great Christmas gift.'"
• Amal & George Clooney Are the Picture of Elegance in Black-Tie Looks - "The two looked like Hollywood royalty as they hosted their annual award show, the Albies."
• Al Fayed’s victims in France call for investigation - "French prosecutors are being urged to launch an investigation into allegations of rapes and sexual assault by Mohammed Al Fayed at the Paris Ritz, and into the 'cult-like' hotel management that enabled his attacks."
• Want to Live Like Gwyneth? You’re in Luck - Goop x CB2 Collection Is Here! - "Full of dreamy cream leathers, fuzzy bouclés, and soft shearling, the Gwyneth Paltrow's Goop x CB2 Collection feels straight out of Montecito."
• Record-breaking $1-billion skyscraper hosts highest internal rainforest - "An enormous US$1 billion supertall skyscraper is currently under construction in Dubai. Named the Tiger Sky Tower, it will break several new records including the world's highest infinity pool and the world's highest restaurant - plus offer residents a respite from the harsh Dubai conditions with a lush green rainforest area inside."
• Flying-Vs & longer wings: how the familiar shape of passenger planes is about to change - "Urgent search for better fuel efficiency to cut emissions is driving radical innovation in aircraft design."
• Automatic takeoffs are coming for passenger jets & they’re going to redraw the map of the sky - "In late 1965, at what’s now London Heathrow airport, a commercial flight coming from Paris made history by being the first to land automatically. Today, automatic landing systems are installed on most commercial aircraft and improve the safety of landings in difficult weather or poor visibility. Now, nearly 60 years later, the world’s third largest aircraft manufacturer, Brazil’s Embraer, is introducing a similar technology, but for takeoffs."
• What makes a tourist attraction? - "As travellers increasingly follow social media feeds and internet memes, the most unlikely of things can become tourist attractions."
• Joker: Folie À Deux to Woman of the Hour: 12 of the best films to watch in October 2024 - "From Lady Gaga and Joaquin Phoenix pairing up to Anna Kendrick making her directorial debut and a Donald Trump biopic, here are the unmissable movies to see this month."
• From Elton John at the piano to Stormzy at Glastonbury & Madonna snogging Britney: 41 era-defining music photos - "Icons, rock stars - and divas behaving badly: these photographs of musicians struck a chord around the world."
• Dame Maggie Smith obituary - "A distinguished, double Oscar-winning actor whose roles ranged from Shakespeare to Harry Potter."
• Tributes paid to 'true legend' Dame Maggie Smith - "Tributes have been paid by the King and prime minister, as well as numerous co-stars from her long career. King Charles described her as 'a national treasure', while Sir Keir Starmer said she was 'beloved by so many for her great talent'."
• Maggie Smith - a life in pictures - "Dame Maggie Smith, who has died aged 89, had an incredibly varied career as a star of stage, screen and TV - from The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie to Downton Abbey to Harry Potter. We look back at her career high points."
• A Collector’s Guide to the Rolex Air-King, From 1945 to Present - "With prices down, it's a good time to consider the small, almost dressy Air-Kings of the early years straight through to the modern model."

September 27, 2024

• Denmark is the No. 1 country for quality of life - Canada & New Zealand also made the top 10 list - "To rank the 89 countries listed, U.S. News and World Report, global marketing and communication services company WPP and the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania surveyed nearly 17,000 people worldwide from March 22 to May 23, 2024. Denmark rose from the No. 4 spot in 2023 to No. 1 on this year's ranking. Denmark - along with Sweden and Norway - is part of the cultural region of northern Europe known as Scandinavia."
• Smiles, surprises & sticky situations. Hilarious images from the Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards - "A smiling elephant seal, a stuck squirrel and a contemplative chimpanzee are among the images shortlisted for this year’s Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards. There are 40 images, four portfolio entries and three video entries that made the shortlist for this year’s competition, according to a statement from organizers on Thursday."
• My dog is the ‘ugliest in the world’ - "Wild Thang had a huge audience because he’d been going to the competition for five years. People were screaming and going wild. He was kind of the underdog."
• Panda pair arrive to VIP welcome in Hong Kong, as Beijing marks 75 years of communist China - "Hong Kong rolled out the red carpet Thursday to receive two giant pandas gifted by the Chinese government to mark 75 years of Communist Party rule, part of a citywide push by authorities to deepen patriotism."
• Harry & Meghan (H&M) are lovely to their staff, OK? - "A public tit for tat has seen the Duchess of Sussex branded as ‘just terrible’."
• Steve Jobs Swore the 10-Minute Rule Made Him Smarter - "Modern Neuroscience Is Discovering He Was Right. Stuck on a tough problem? Do what Jobs would have done and follow the 10-minute rule. You'd stand up and go for a walk."
• Celebrity-packed front rows, a surprise drop-in from Madonna & an ‘anything goes’ attitude: Milan Fashion Week highlights - "The strapline to the recent Spring-Summer 2025 shows at Milan Fashion Week should read: 'expect the unexpected.'"
• Skinny is back, says this French fashion house & they’re not happy about it - "In Paris, this fashion house fears the size inclusive dream is over."
• The summer that tourism fell apart - "After a summer of protests in some of Europe's most popular travel destinations, what might your summer holiday look like in 2025 - and beyond?"
• Free Covid-19 tests are available again. Here’s how to get them - "People in the United States can now order more free Covid-19 tests from the federal government as the country heads into respiratory virus season with high levels of the coronavirus already circulating."
• Champagne moment: Sophie raises glass to Taittinger’s sparkling Kent wine - "'God could not have done it better than that,' said Pierre-Emmanuel Taittinger, the honorary president of Taittinger champagne, as rain poured over the Kent countryside on Thursday afternoon. Nine years after the champagne house bought land in Chilham, the Domaine Evremond winery will sell a sparkling wine with hints of the county’s ‘sea and soil’."
• How cult 'art house erotica' film Emmanuelle became a global hit & dated badly - "To mark the 50th anniversary of the erotic French film that made soft porn mainstream cinema, it's had a 21st Century reboot - but will it match the success of the original?"
• 11 Irresistible Coffee Cocktails To Sip On National Coffee Day - "Coffee and cocktails—what’s not to love? Take the espresso martini, for example. Once a quirky favorite of London’s cocktail scene, this simple yet powerful drink has surged back into the spotlight, and people can’t get enough. It’s rich, bold and gives you that perfect caffeine kick when you need it most."
• Does Espresso Have More or Less Caffeine Than Drip Coffee? - "If you're looking for a gentle jolt of caffeine rather than a full-on flogging, one type of coffee may be the better choice. The simple answer is that espresso contains more caffeine per ounce than a standard drip coffee. The difference between drip coffee and espresso beans comes down to how each is brewed."
• 20 Things You Didn’t Know the Apple Watch Could Do - "We've rounded up the lesser-known tips and tricks that all Apple Watch wearers should know to get the most out of their smartwatch."
• how Codenames became the board game of the decade - "'Trying something out' with a few scribbled notes, Czech games maestro Vlaada Chvátil conceived a tabletop contest than has since sold more than 15m units. Now it’s coming to take over your phone."
• Anti-Aging Enthusiasts Are Taking a Pill to Extend Their Lives. Will It Work? - "Rapamycin is typically prescribed as an immunosuppressive, but off-label users believe it can do much more."
• Memory Loss Isn’t the Only Sign of Dementia - "Here are five other common red flags to look out for."
• What Can Your ‘Training Load’ Tell You About Your Fitness? - "The metric is available on most fitness trackers. Training Load combines the intensity and duration of a workout into one number that’s meant to estimate the stress of a bout of exercise on the body. Here’s what it means."
• A Beginner’s Guide to the Weight Room - "Lifting at your local gym can be intimidating. Here’s how to get started."
• A 25-Minute Strength Workout for Beginners - "New to the weight room? This routine is for you."

September 26, 2024

• World Maritime Day | United Nations - "This year's theme, Navigating the future: safety first! reflects the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) work to enhance maritime safety and security, in tandem with the protection of the marine environment, whilst ensuring its regulatory development process safely anticipates the fast pace of technological change and innovation."
• Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards 2024 finalists announced - "From a smiling elephant seal to a dancing sifaka, the shortlist of amusing animals showcases the work of talented photographers the world over."
• Trust me - there's one Apple Intelligence feature you'll want to turn off right away - "Notification summaries are freaking me out."
• Here’s everything new in Apple Notes for iOS 18 - "iOS 18 is a big release for the iPhone apps, with the brand new Passwords app plus significant enhancements to apps like Messages, Photos, and Journal. One of my most-used apps, Notes, gets a variety of powerful new features in iOS 18 including live audio transcription, highlights, Smart Script, and more."
• This is my favorite iOS 18 feature & it has nothing to do with Apple Intelligence - "I am loving that Apple is giving users the opportunity to take full control over the look of the home screen - and where the app icons are all placed."
• iOS 18: How to Create a Route in Maps for Your Next Hike, Walk or Run - "Now you can stay on track no matter where you go. Make a custom route on Apple Maps on iPhone: 1. Open Maps. 2. Long press where you want to start your route to drop a pin. 3. Tap More. 4. Tap Create a Custom Route."
• Away’s New Daily Backpack Comes Extra Organized for Commuters - "Away's newest backpack, the Commuter Backpack, has significantly more interior pockets than any of its previous backpacks."
• How to Stop Checking Your Phone Every 10 Seconds - "To ease in, start going without your phone for set periods of time, like when you're working on an important project or want to give all of your attention to your friend or partner. Over time, as you get used to being without your device, it may get easier to resist that constant pull to check."
• Is Green Tea Really ‘Nature’s Ozempic’? - "Here’s what experts said about the beverage’s link to weight loss. People turning to green tea to lose weight 'can't expect a big effect, and certainly nothing close to medications like Ozempic,' said Rob van Dam, a professor of exercise and nutrition sciences at the Milken Institute School of Public Health at George Washington University."
• The thinnest mechanical watches ever made - "Thinness has always been prized in the watch world because it serves so many purposes. There’s the welcome practicality of a thin watch being easy to wear, whether it’s supposed to slip into a pocket or under a dress cuff. There’s the aesthetic appreciation of thinness, embodying sophistication and elegance. Finally, there’s the chance to show off a brand’s technical prowess, and that’s what we’ll be focusing on here."
• Dubai’s millionaires are fueling a private jet boom - "More millionaires are forecast to move to the United Arab Emirates in 2024 than to any other country in the world. Experts say the influx is driving a boom in private aviation. With aviation accounting for 3% of global carbon emissions not every nation is embracing private aviation with such fervor. The Netherlands last year declared its intention to ban private jets and small business aviation at its major Schipol airport from 2026."
• Ranked: Top Countries by Their Second-Language English Proficiency - "This graphic ranks the top 25 countries according to their English proficiency. Data is sourced from the EF English Proficiency Index, which aggregated the test results of 2.2 million adults accross 113 countries."
• Five Common English Words We Don’t Know the Origins of - Including ‘Boy’ & ‘Dog’ - "Discover the mysterious origins of five common English words - including 'boy' and 'dog' - that continue to puzzle linguists."
• Richard III’s voice recreated & it’s more Yorkshire than posh - "Experts say the Plantagenet king, based on his skull shape and knowledge of the era’s speech patterns, would have had an accent with flat vowels. The result bears a closer resemblance to English currently spoken in Yorkshire or Somerset than the accent used in stage and screen performances by Sir Laurence Olivier or Sir Ian McKellen."
• Superyacht Directory - "The Superyacht Directory is the world’s largest database of private luxury yachts, with over 12,000 megayachts listed. It’s the most authoritative place to find everything you need to know about superyachts - including new builds, historic vessels and the most famous boats of all time."

September 25, 2024

• Bernard Arnault plummets down the list of world’s richest men after a $54 billion collapse - "'As long as I’m not the richest man in the world, I won’t really be happy,' Bernard Arnault once said."
• Robert De Niro’s Billion-Dollar Gamble - "The actor teamed up with superstar Danish architect Bjarke Ingels to build Wildflower Studios, a massive vertical production complex in Astoria, Queens. So what do you get for that price tag? THR got the first tour."
• What to pack in a ‘go bag’ for when disaster strikes - "When wildfires rage, hurricanes bear down, flood waters rise and that big earthquake finally strikes, it’s critical that you and your family members are ready to evacuate. A basic emergency supply kit should include: One gallon of water per person, per day, Three-day supply of non-perishable food per person and per pet."
• Everything you need to prepare for wildfires, earthquakes, hurricanes & tornadoes, according to experts - "Here is a round-up of emergency supplies and preparation resources, including recommendations from experts as well as a selection of gear we’ve tested ourselves."
• Gold’s hitting new records again. Here’s what it means for the economy - "The 2024 monster gold rally is picking up steam. The most actively traded gold futures contract has hit repeated highs this year, most recently notching a fresh record of $2,687.30 on Tuesday before retreating."
• Diamond necklace possibly linked to Marie-Antoinette scandal goes on sale - "Weighing approximately 300 carats, the 18th-century piece, likely created a decade before the French Revolution, is on public display for the first time in 50 years to be sold by Sothebys in Geneva on 11 November, estimate $2.8 million."
• 6 of the best food cities in Italy through the dish that defines them - "In a country where food is a social glue, you’re never far from a meal to remember - and these culinary destinations are beloved for their standout dishes and products."
• Fiji: They live in paradise. But everyday life is a bit more complicated - "For travelers, there’s a very specific image of Fiji that comes to mind: flawless white stretches of sand, overwater bungalows perfect for honeymooning couples and bright blue sea in every direction. For the people who live in Fiji, though, the picture is more complicated."
• Jus sanguinis - or ‘blood right’ - might entitle you to citizenship in Europe - "Croatia is one of many countries in the European Union to recognize Jus sanguinis (the 'right of blood'), which can be used to acquire citizenship by descent, as opposed to jus solis (the 'right of soil'), which grants citizenship solely on a person’s place of birth."
• Audiophiles love vinyl records for these 5 reasons - "1 Records have a distinct sound to them. 2 The act of listening to a record can be a nice ritual. 3 Vinyls are often mastered differently from digital versions. 4 Records make you feel more connected to the music than streaming. 5 Records emphasize listening to an album all the way through."
• How Do AirTags Work? - "The AirTag emits a Bluetooth signal that is tracked within the same Apple network, sending a signal to any iPhones or other nearby Apple devices, which in turn send the signal back to your own iPhone."
• Silk Roads review - mesmerising show turns world history upside down - "The British Museum's mesmerising Silk Roads does, by showing how Asia, Europe and north Africa shared their cultures more than a millennium ago."

September 24, 2024

• iOS 18.1 release date: Here’s when to expect new features - "Wrap-up: iOS 18.1 coming very soon: If Apple follows its normal pattern, look for a release around October 23 or 24 (the 25th is a Friday, and Apple doesn't usually ship software on Fridays)."
• Surfing penguins & hunting falcons among bird photography prize winners - "A photo showing birds killed by window collisions won the contest's grand prize."
• Bird photographer of the year 2024 winners - in pictures - "The winning images in this year’s Bird Photographer of the Year competition have been selected from 23,000 entries from around the world. The overall winner Patricia Homonylo’s image showed birds killed by colliding with windows."
• How Healthy Are Apples? - "They’re America’s most popular fruit. Here’s why that’s a great thing."
• Goodbye Louis Vuitton. China’s Gen Z leans into ‘dupe economy’ as growth prospects stall - "The 'obvious' economic slowdown has resulted in social media searches for dupes tripling from 2022 to 2024."
• Gen Z & the "Dupe" Phenomena - "Going into the holiday season, younger consumers are feeling better about the economy than older generations - and they’re more likely to increase spend on discretionary items, little luxuries, and 'dupes'. What’s a 'dupe'? Great question, let’s dive in."
• These buildings would have transformed skylines, but they were never built - "For every architectural project built, many others have been stalled or forgotten, only existing as might-have-beens in sketches or renderings."
• Atlas of Never Built Architecture - "A comprehensive global survey of more than 300 extraordinary unbuilt architecture projects from the 20th century to the present day."
• Norway is shying away from tourism & other countries could learn from it - "Norwegians are putting their natural environment (and weekend activities) ahead of tourism’s economic benefits."
• The World's Oldest Country Is A Tiny But Mighty Beauty Called Europe's 'Best-Kept Secret' - "Founded in 301 AD, San Marino is one of the world's oldest sovereign states, and history buffs will relish the chance to wander through the city's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site paved with cobblestones."
• HOW LONG DOES AN APPLE WATCH LAST? (& CAN YOU EXTEND ITS LIFESPAN?) - "By some estimates, consumers can expect the typical Apple Watch to last somewhere between three and five years. However, that's not a hard-and-fast rule, and the product has no singular lifespan. Instead, a combination of factors over the span of several years will eventually cause people to stop using it."
• Rivals to The Diplomat: 11 of the best TV shows to watch this October - "From an adaptation of Jilly Cooper's sex-and-scandal-filled novel to a superhero movie-making satire and the return of Netflix's gripping political drama."
• 12 best carry-on luggage 2024 - "The Very Best Carry-on Luggage From duffel bags and rolling suitcases to roomy backpacks. The best carry-on luggage is the Away Carry-on."
• The English wine that's rivalling Champagne - "As a result of climate change, English wine producers are now able to grow grapes traditionally associated with Champagne and producing top-quality sparkling wine."
• British Royals really cost £510m a year, anti-monarchists say - "The real cost of the Royal Family to taxpayers is £510m a year - nearly six times more than the £86m of state funding from the annual Sovereign Grant - anti-monarchy campaigners claim."
• ‘Remorseless, ruthless, racist’: my battle to expose Mohamed Al Fayed - "As UK editor of Vanity Fair, from the 1990s I amassed appalling testimonies about the Harrods owner of sex abuse, racism and spying on staff."
• Tantalum: The Hidden Treasure of Modern Metals - "While tantalum is not a precious metal, its mere existence as a case or bracelet is precious in every sense, demanding both significant expertise and expense."
• Ranked: Average GDP Growth Rates for the Next 10 Years, by Country - "In this graphic, we show future economic prospects of major nations worldwide, based on analysis from Ray Dalio. We show real GDP growth projections over the next decade, based on an assessment of 81 indicators including labor productivity, innovation, debt obligations, and education."

September 23, 2024

• The world’s best hotels for 2024 revealed - "The Capella Bangkok didn’t have the easiest of beginnings. It opened in 2020, in the first year of a global pandemic that had the hospitality industry on its knees. However, just four years later, this sanctuary overlooking the Chao Phraya River has taken the top spot in the second edition of the World’s 50 Best Hotels list."
• Pesto the baby penguin is already taller than his parents. Now he’s a social media star - "He’s a 'walking feathery poop machine.' And he’s also a celebrity."
• Rare Magritte painting could fetch a record $95 million at New York auction - "L’empire des lumières, from 1954, is one of the 27 paintings in which Magritte explored light by painting a sunlit sky above a darkened street scene."
• How tech giant Palantir is secretly changing the face of warfare - "The system used by commanders in Ukraine will allow UK top brass to strengthen the service by bringing ‘rotten old databases’ up to date."
• Are We Thinking About Obesity All Wrong? - "Experts are rushing to redefine obesity amid soaring demand for new weight loss drugs. 'Obesity is a disease,' Oprah Winfrey declared after disclosing her weight loss with an Ozempic-like drug. 'It’s a brain disease,' a prominent obesity doctor explained on a '60 Minutes' episode about the drugs. 'Obesity is disease' even has its own discover page on TikTok."
• The 1994 flop that became the US's most beloved film - "How prison drama The Shawshank Redemption 'tanked at the box office' in 1994, but went on to become one of the most acclaimed films in the world. The Stephen King prison drama bombed commercially on its initial release in 1994, failing to claw back its modest budget. Now, many regard it as a cinematic masterpiece."
• ‘Moneypenny with more power’: book celebrates UK’s forgotten female spies - "Dr Claire Hubbard-Hall reveals contribution of Kathleen Pettigrew, most senior secretary in MI6 and inspiration for Ian Fleming, and others in new title."
• 17 Different James Bond Movies All Feature A Cameo From The Same Man - "Still, one man has made more James Bond movie cameos than any other person, sometimes playing more than one character in a single movie. This is James Bond co-producer Michael G. Wilson, the actor who appears most in James Bond movies, along with the late Desmond Llewellyn, who played Q in 17 Bond movies."
• 6 reasons why audiophiles love CDs in the streaming age - "CDs offer lossless audio with great dynamic range. You can own music on a CD, controlling your access. CDs make it easy to listen to albums from start to finish."
• Review: Bentley’s Opulent Bentayga EWB Azure V8 SUV Is a Surprisingly Agile Beast - "Although 17.4 feet in length and weighing 5,542 pounds, this SUV delivers a thoroughly engaging ride experience. One of the most opulent and comfortable chariots to come from Bentley, the Bentayga EWB Azure V8 may be bigger dimensionally than the base model, but we found it offered a surprisingly engaging drive experience overall, and displayed unexpected maneuverability."
• TOP 10 INNOVATIVE APPLE WATCH ADD-ONS: ESSENTIAL GEAR FOR 2024 - "If you’re someone who absolutely cannot do without their Apple Watch, then this collection of innovative and nifty accessories is for you. From the smallest Apple Watch smart charger to a wristband for weight-lifting - these super cool accessories are a must-have for Apple Watch lovers."

September 22, 2024

• Fall equinox: Why the first day of fall isn’t as equal as you might think - "Twice a year, the sun doesn’t play favorites. Everyone on Earth is seemingly on equal status - at least when it comes to the amount of light and dark that they get. On Sunday, we enter our second and final equinox of 2024."
• 5 Signs You’re Eating Too Much Sugar - "1. Weight gain and constant hunger. It's no secret that sugar has a lot of calories. 2. Acne. 3. Cravings and mood swings. 4. Inflammation and weak immune system. 5. Accelerated aging."
• Is Cottage Cheese Actually a Health Food? - "Yes, it is, both experts agree. 'A one cup serving has 25g of protein, 11g of carbohydrates (nine of which are sugars as lactose), and a decent amount of potassium and calcium,' advises Dr Amati."
• What We Know (& Don’t Know) About ‘Forever Chemicals’ in Food - "There’s a growing understanding of the health threats of PFAS chemicals in what we eat and drink."
• Our Taste for Flesh Has Exhausted the Earth - "Are we ready for the future of meat? Worldwide, 80 billion animals are slaughtered every year for meat. Raising all those animals has already claimed most of the world’s farmland. It has led to zoonotic diseases and vast deforestation. It has polluted air and water and spewed planet-heating gasses into the atmosphere."
• Welcome to the Golden Age of Scams - "We are living in the golden age of scams. U.S. consumers lost a record $10 billion to fraud in 2023, according to the Federal Trade Commission, a 14% increase over 2022. That tally is almost certainly an undercount."
• Why the key message of Friends endures 30 years on - "'When you're single and in the city, your friends are your family': Why the key message of Friends endures - 30 years on. First broadcast 30 years ago this week, the hugely popular show Friends became much more than a sitcom - it brought a new way of living into the mainstream."
• After Apple, Jony Ive Is Building an Empire of His Own - "Five years after leaving Apple, the iPhone designer is forging a new life in San Francisco, one imaginative building at a time."
• Rimowa Essential Cabin S - What can you fit inside + weight test - "If you've been keeping an eye on the travel scene lately, you may have noticed the buzz surrounding the Rimowa Essential Line. Known for its lightweightness, durability and range of colors, the Essential Line is a staple for discerning travelers seeking both style and functionality."
• I Know Rimowa Is the Ultimate for Luxury Luggage, But Ours Keeps Breaking - "Most see Rimowa, a German brand founded in 1898 and known for its high-quality luggage and suitcases, as the holy grail of luxury travel items. In fact, it is a signal as much as a designer bag. The classic Aluminum line is a flex, as are all the other recognizable Rimowa icons."
• Sunken superyacht believed to contain watertight safes with sensitive intelligence data - "Some of the 15 survivors, of whom nine were crew members and six were passengers reportedly told prosecutors that Lynch 'did not trust cloud services' and always kept data drives in a secure compartment of the yacht wherever he sailed."
• From Munich 72 to 7 October attack: the chequered history of the Mossad - "Hezbollah device blasts add to reputation for audacious espionage, but Israeli spy agency has had numerous failures."

September 21, 2024

• Hands-On With the New iPhone 16 - "This year'siPhone 1 is the biggest upgrade for a standard model that we've seen in some time. Performance is not too far off from the Pro models, the Action Button is no longer Pro exclusive, and Apple brought the fun new Camera Control button to alliPhone 1 models, not just the 16 Pro and Pro Max."
• First iPhone 16 Pro durability tests show downside to new ultra-thin bezels - "The iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro are here, and so are the first durability tests. If you want to watch Apple’s latest flagship phones go through drop tests, knife tests, and more."
• Ten years on, the Apple Watch is still the king of smartwatches - "Smartwatches existed before the Apple Watch, but as always, Apple just does it differently and, for the most part, better. It's hard to argue. It wasn't too long before Apple was claiming the title of the best-selling watch brand in the world - yes, watch brand, not smartwatch."
• October will be big for Apple products, here’s what’s coming next - "For everyone else though, Apple Intelligence is coming in October. Next month as part of iOS 18.1, iPadOS 18.1, and macOS Sequoia 15.1, Apple will ship its first wave of AI features to the masses. Capabilities will include: an upgraded Siri with more glow (and smarts)."
• Rick Steves Says The Smartest Travelers Do One Thing Before Landing At A European Airport - "'Smart travelers download airport terminal maps to their smartphones or print them out before they leave,' says Steves. 'You can also look for websites with detailed instructions on how to get from your arrival gate to the center of the city ...'"
• Avoid This European Airport Often Called The World's Worst - "While airport stressors aren't exactly uncommon, there is one airport in Europe that is often referred to as the world's worst one. That stressful airport is Charles de Gaulle in Paris, France."
• Navigating European Airports - "Over the years I've learned some tricks on dealing with European airports. Here are a few of them."
• Tourists are rushing to see glaciers before they disappear. The trips are turning deadly - "Glacier tourism has boomed in recent years. The ice attracts people for many reasons: to fulfill a bucket list dream, get up close to a natural phenomenon, or simply for adventure. But there’s also another motivation increasingly present - the desire to see the glaciers before they disappear. It’s called 'last-chance tourism' and it’s a growing market."
• This luxury spot proves that travelers who head straight to Greece’s islands are missing out - "Costa Navarino is making its way onto the jet-set itinerary in the same league as St. Tropez, Capri and Ibiza, but without the crowds. Greece's first Mandarin Oriental hotel opened in August 2023 in the mulit-resort Costa Navarino development on the Peloponnese peninsula."
• Luggage Week 2024: The Essential Guide to Suitcases & Bags - "Condé Nast Traveler editors' top picks for checked bags, carry-ons, weekenders, backpacks, and more."
• Gucci’s ‘casual grandeur’ rules the runway at Milan fashion week - "Sabato De Sarno takes inspiration from Jackie Kennedy Onassis’ holiday style with a dash of Tom Ford slink. A year after he took on one of the biggest jobs in fashion, the designer Sabato De Sarno has a formula for his new Gucci: 'casual grandeur'."
• To influence people, make 1 key change in how you talk, says communication expert: It puts you ‘in a position of power’ - "Asking good questions 'demonstrates you care, it demonstrates empathy, it demonstrates you’re willing to learn and, in some cases, admit you don’t know everything,' he adds. 'Those are all valuable tools and assets to have when you’re trying to grow your career or deepen relationships.'"
• New DNA analysis unravels the mystery of ‘lost prince’ Kaspar Hauser - "'His birth was unknown, his death hidden.' So reads the headstone (translated from Latin) marking the grave of the enigmatic man known as Kaspar Hauser, who died in 1833. Nearly 200 years later, scientists have finally solved a longstanding mystery about Hauser’s suspected ties to German royalty."
• Alexander the Great’s Assassination & the Location of the Lost Tomb - "Archaeologists and scholars have spent nearly a century investigating what happened to Alexander the Great and where his tomb is located. Some argue that his tomb is in Macedonia, northern Greece, while others claim it is in Alexandria, Egypt, or even Babylon, but no one has been able to locate it. The tomb was most likely relocated more than once..."
• The Substance: Why this gross-out body horror about Hollywood beauty standards is 2024's most divisive film - "No one who watches this twisted Demi Moore film about a special anti-ageing treatment will forget it. But is it a feminist masterpiece or shallow, misogynistic and exploitative?"
• Five hidden symbols in Vermeer's paintings - "A major new Vermeer exhibition at the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam displays the artist's evocative and serene paintings of daily life - but they harbour secret, symbolic messages, writes Matthew Wilson."
• Legendary but never built: 10 unrealized masterpieces of architecture - "From Gaudí’s skyscraper for New York to Libeskind’s Potsdamer Platz, we've selected 10 projects that, even without ever seeing the light, have made history."
• Rimowa just shrunk its iconic aluminum suitcase into a chic handbag - "The German luggage maker took three years to engineer the new bag in its Cologne factory."

September 20, 2024

• World Cleanup Day 2024 - "This year's event takes place on Friday 20 September following our addition to the UN Calendar of International Days! We aim to activate 5% of the world's population that will catalyse lasting societal change in behaviour around mismanaged waste. We invite people from all sectors, from every nation, from all levels of society to join us. Let's do it - together!"
• Scientists looked deep beneath the Doomsday Glacier - "Scientists using ice-breaking ships and underwater robots have found the Thwaites Glacier in Antarctica is melting at an accelerating rate and could be on an irreversible path to collapse, spelling catastrophe for global sea level rise. What they found spells potential disaster for the planet."
• Ranked: The Largest Producers of Wind Power, by Country - "Global wind power installations reached a new high in 2023, increasing renewable energy’s share of total power generation to 30%. China continues to be the driving force behind wind power expansion, accounting for nearly 66% of global capacity additions last year."
• The Hidden Environmental Costs of Food - "Damage to the natural world isn’t factored into the price of food. But some governments are experimenting with a new way of exposing the larger costs of what we eat."
• The Weight Loss Hacks That Claim to Work Like Ozempic - "Kourtney Kardashian’s new 'GLP-1 Daily' pill is the latest product to capitalize on the weight loss drug craze."
• 'Don't fight against the years that you've earned': Cindy Crawford on beauty & 'age maintenance' - "As fashion month continues, the trailblazing supermodel talks 90s nostalgia, career gambles, and embracing getting older."
• Scientists store entire human genome on ‘memory crystal’ that could survive billions of years - "The crystal features a visual key, intended to explain what it contains to whoever finds it. The crystal is stored in the Memory of Mankind archive in Hallstatt, Austria."
• RIP, Apple ID - "The 'Apple ID' era is officially over. The transition from "Apple ID" to "Apple Account" went from a rumor to an official announcement to something that has now been fully completed. As of this week, the account.apple.com website is fully updated with Apple Account branding."
• Using the New iPhone Charging Limit Options in iOS 18 - "Apple has introduced expanded charging limit options for iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 models in iOS 18, offering users more control over their device's battery health: 1. Open the Settings app on youriPhon. 2. Tap Battery. 3. Select Charging. 4. Choose your preferred charging limit from the available options: 80%, 85%, 90%, and 95%."
• iOS 18: Keep Your iPhone's Notes App Organized With This Secret Trick - "Make jumbled and scattered notes a thing of the past. How to create collapsible sections: 1. Open Notes. 2. Tap the new note button - the square with a pen - in the bottom right corner of your screen. 3. Add a title to the note, like weeks of the month. 4. Tap the Aa in the toolbar across the top of your keyboard ..."
• EVERYTHING TO KNOW ABOUT THE GULFSTREAM G700, ONE OF THE FASTEST PRIVATE JETS TODAY - "As the current flagship offering of Gulfstream, the G700 is one of the fastest private jets in the skies today. This jet's maximum operating Mach number (Mmo) — which is the top speed that it can safely achieve - is Mach 0.935 or 0.935 times the speed of sound."
• Ranked: America’s Top Universities in 2024 - "Forbes’ annual America’s Top Colleges rankings provides valuable insights by evaluating U.S. universities on 14 key metrics, including median debt and salary, to determine which colleges offer the best educational, financial, and career outcomes for all students. This chart shows the top 25 American colleges in 2024 from Forbes’ top 100 list, as well as their respective median post-graduate 10-year salary and median debt after graduation."
• Mohamed Al Fayed accused of rape & sexual assault by 20 women - "The BBC has heard testimony from more than 20 female ex-employees who say the billionaire, who died last year aged 94, sexually assaulted or raped them. The documentary and podcast - Al-Fayed: Predator at Harrods - gathered evidence that, during Fayed’s ownership, Harrods not only failed to intervene, but helped cover up abuse allegations."
• Germany's sophisticated alternative to Oktoberfest - "Every September, millions of tourists flock to Munich for Oktoberfest. However, the true centre of German beer culture lies three hours north in the medieval town of Bamberg."

September 19, 2024

• The world is getting closer to mastering this source of near-limitless clean energy. China wants to get there first - "The US led on nuclear fusion for decades. Now China is in position to win the race."
• What we know about the Hezbollah device explosions - "At least 32 people, including two children, were killed and thousands more injured, many seriously, after communication devices, some used by the armed group Hezbollah, dramatically exploded across Lebanon on Tuesday and Wednesday."
• ‘Billions’ of golf balls could be lost every year. Where do they end up? - "Tiger Woods scrunches his face in frustration as he watches his ball splash into the Pacific Ocean. If the world No.1 and future 82-time PGA Tour winner could surrender a ball to the environment at the peak of his near-superhuman powers, just how many do the millions of mere mortal golfers across the globe lose each year? The short answer: A lot."
• On its 40th anniversary, London Fashion Week has plenty to celebrate - "Against the backdrop of a challenging economic outlook for many brands - big and small - the 40th anniversary of London Fashion Week last week was certainly a time for reflection."
• A Tolkien trail: Where to find the real-life Middle-earth - "While Tolkien's stories take place in the fictional realm of Middle-earth, the awe-inspiring landscapes of the books, films and TV shows are closer than you might imagine."
• Looking for a New Way to See Iceland? Bring Your Knitting Needles - "In a country with nearly as many sheep as people, a D.I.Y. wool journey - from sheep farms to yarn shops - makes perfect sense. Our writer brushes up on her knitting on a driving trip from Reykjavik."
• 5 Ways to Make Friends (Without Joining a Book Club) - "Experts share strategies for connecting that actually work."
• Gillian Anderson Wants Women to Put Pleasure First - "With a new book about fantasies, the 'Sex Education' star is hoping to help women tap into their most intimate desires - in and out of the bedroom."
• To Prevent Injury, Train Your Tendons - "It’s not just muscles that need training. A little time with connectors like tendons, ligaments and joints can go a long way."
• These 6 Exercises Are Fundamental to How You Move - "Practicing these movements can make everyday tasks - like carrying groceries and walking up stairs - easier."
• How to Fix the 2 Most Annoying iOS 18 Settings on Your iPhone - "I like almost everything about iOS 18, but there are two features that I personally find irritating. How to get rid of all the clutter from the Photos app on iOS 18. How to remove all the new Control Center pages on iOS 18."
• iOS 18 lets you ditch Apple’s Camera app for a much better one - here’s how - "iOS 18 has now landed with a host of new software toys, but the biggest one for photographers may be a handy new customizable lock screen trick. You can now replace Apple's basic Camera app in the lock screen with more powerful ones - like Halide and Moment's Pro Camera."
• Just Install iOS 18? Here Are 10 Things to Do First - "1. Set Up Your Home Screen. 2. Set Up Control Center. 3. Hide and Lock Apps. 4. Change Your Lock Screen Buttons. 5. Organize the Photos App. 6. Check Out the Passwords App. 7. Try Safari Distraction Control. 8. Test Out Math Notes. 9. Schedule a Message. Use iPhone Mirroring. It will take Apple until next year to fully roll out the Apple Intelligence features that it showed off at WWDC, but you'll get to try some of them when iOS 18.1 launches. We expect to see iOS 18.1 debut in October."

September 18, 2024

• Israel behind deadly pager explosions that targeted Hezbollah & injured thousands in Lebanon - "Hezbollah vows retaliation against Israel for deadly pager explosions across Lebanon."
• How Hezbollah used pagers & couriers to counter Israel's high tech surveillance - "Coded messages. Landline phones. Pagers. Following the killing of senior commanders in targeted Israeli airstrikes, the Iran-backed Lebanese militant group, Hezbollah, has been using some low-tech strategies to try to evade its foe's sophisticated surveillance technology, informed sources told Reuters."
• A journey through Ukraine: one year in a war zone - in pictures - "Byron Smith spent 12 months travelling across the battle-torn nation, meeting injured civilians, amateur bomb-makers and daredevil swimmers."
• drinking about 3 cups of coffee a day may protect heart health - "Coffee could be more than a morning pick-me-up, according to new research."
• Norway: electric cars outnumber petrol for first time in ‘historic milestone’ - "Nordic country, paradoxically a major oil producer, has set target for all new cars sold to be zero emission."
• Why Do So Many People Wear All Black? - "More than any other color, it is replete with associations and symbolism, which may mean one thing to a wearer and another to an observer - and which changes depending on the context. It is associated with mystery, mourning, eccentricity and elegance. 'Black is modest and arrogant at the same time. Black is lazy and easy, but mysterious. But above all, black says this: I don’t bother you, don’t bother me.'"
• The Customized Drink Is Out of Control - "As cafes grant us the power to cobble together ultra-personalized beverages filled with syrups, powders, fruit chunks, boba and plenty of caffeine, we’re all soda jerks now."
• Apple CarPlay Just Got A Bunch Of Cool New Features With iOS 18 - "Your iPhone's new operating system brings some updates to the CarPlay experience."
• A tycoon collector forbade anyone from selling his coins for 100 years. A century on, the first set just fetched $16.5M - "Following the death of the Danish butter magnate Lars Emil Bruun in 1923, his will had a curious order: His vast accumulation of coins, notes and medals, amassed over more than six decades, should be held as an emergency reserve for Denmark’s national collection in case it were ever destroyed. On Tuesday, just under a year since the 100-year-old order expired, the first set of coins from Bruun’s personal 20,000-piece collection went up for auction in Copenhagen. After nearly eight hours of bidding, the opening 286 lots sold for a combined 14.82 million euros ($16.5 million)."
• Full harvest supermoon also creates a partial lunar eclipse - "Sky-gazers around the world were able to glimpse a partial lunar eclipse while September’s full harvest moon shone brightly Tuesday night. The moon peaked at its fullest at 10:35 p.m. ET Tuesday, but will appear full through Thursday morning, according to NASA. Upcoming celestial events."
• Usyk released after airport detention - Zelensky - "Ukraine president Volodymyr Zelensky says heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk has been released after being detained at an airport in Poland."
• Five of the world's most beautiful climbing locations - "From Tasmania to Vietnam, the world is filled with astounding rock formations for intrepid climbers. Here, Australian climber and photographer Simon Carter picks five of the best."
• Urologist Adam Weiner, runner Usain Bolt: can a last name determine your job? - "Some researchers claim aptronyms, or perfectly apt names, can affect what field you go into - while others are skeptical."
• Here’s how the upgraded iPhone flashlight works in iOS 18 - "This guide with screenshots covers how to use the iPhone flashlight in iOS 18 with beam width control and more."
• Celebrating Goldfinger’s 60th Anniversary - "007’s Third Screen Mission. 'This is gold, Mr. Bond. All my life I’ve been in love with its colour... its brilliance, its divine heaviness.'"
• Drone Awards 2024 - in pictures - "A selection of the nominated images from this year’s Drone Awards. A winner will be announced on 28 September at the Siena World Photography Awards ceremony at the Teatro dei Rinnovati in Siena, Italy."

September 17, 2024

• The Climate Peril We Overlook - "Our planet has just endured its hottest summer on record, with 2024 on track likewise to become the hottest year since recordkeeping began. We often focus on doomsday scenarios, but we shouldn't let them distract us from other consequences of climate change like impaired learning, crime, suide - even slipping off ladders."
• OpenAI says the latest ChatGPT can ‘think’ & I have thoughts - "We are fast approaching two years of the generative AI revolution, sparked by the November 2022 release of ChatGPT by OpenAI. So far it’s been a mixed bag. The AI company says its ‘o1’ model is capable of reason, a key blocker in the way of truly gamechanging artificial intelligence. But is it that simple?"
• Melania Trump has a memoir coming out & she’s acting pretty strangely - "There has been surprisingly little fanfare about the book, which is published next month. Is the former first lady about to reveal all?"
• This airport landing is so challenging only 50 pilots are qualified to do it - "Paro International Airport (PBH) has a single 2,265 m (7,431 ft) asphalt runway."
• ‘Like a Fitbit for your brain’: These game-changing headphones could stop you burning out - "Mind-reading headphones sound like an invention straight out of a science-fiction film, and a far-fetched one at that. But that’s exactly what Boston-based startup Neurable has spent the last nine years creating - and they’re going on sale this fall."
• The Art Of Time: Why Premium Watches Are More Than Just Accessories - "In a world dominated by smartphones, premium watches continue to hold their allure. Discover why investing in a luxury watch goes beyond the practical. Premium watches are far more than timekeepers - they are symbols of craftsmanship, personal expression, and achievement. They tell stories, create emotional connections, and can even appreciate over time."
• The Best of Geneva Watch Days, According to 8 Experts - "From Moser to MB&F, these watch-industry tastemakers single our the hot releases from Geneva Watch Days 2024."
• watchOS 11 - 5 features to try first on your Apple Watch - "These new Apple Watch features will help you get started with watchOS 11."
• 7 of the Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Italy - "The Dolomites - Trevi Fountain, Rome - Il Duomo, Milan - Bridge of Sighs, Venice - Boboli Gardens, Florence - Arco Naturale, Capri - Teatro Greco, Taormina."
• The 10 best tourist attractions in Europe - "A new ranking lists the 10 best monuments in Europe to visit once in your life: 1. The Alhambra, Granada, Spain. 2. The Brandenburg Gate, Berlin, Germany. 3. The Trevi Fountain, Rome, Italy. 4. The Wavel Royal Castle, Kraków, Poland. 5. Le Jerónimos Monastery, Lisbon, Portugal. 6. The Prague Castle, Czech Republic. 7. The Canals of Amsterdam, Netherlands. 8. The Canals of Venice, Italy. 9. Hofburg, Vienna, Austria. 10. The Archaeological Park of Pompeii, Italy."
• The 10 Oldest Currencies Still Used Today - "The British pound, also known as the pound sterling, is the oldest currency still in use. It dates back to around 775 AD, during the Anglo-Saxon period, when silver pennies were first minted in what is now England. The pound sterling became the official currency of England in the 12th century under King Henry II, with one pound originally representing a pound of silver."
• A forgotten gemstone that reigned during the Victorian era comes back into focus - "Jet, a flat-black, opaque gemstone derived from wood that has experienced extreme compression over millions of years, was the haute stone throughout the Victorian era, a time when fashion and jewelry deftly signaled a person’s social status, financial wealth and even emotional state."
• 79 food-processing chemicals found in body are known to cause cancer, genetic mutations & reproductive issues, according to study - "Toxic chemicals used in food preparation leach into human bodies, study finds. Wrapping foods in plastic wrap are just one of many ways that humans are exposed to food contact chemicals, experts say."
• Do you see blue or green? This viral test plays with color perception - "A visual neuroscientist realized he saw green and blue differently to his wife. He designed an interactive site that has received over 1.5m visits."
• The Double Espresso Nespresso Pod With The Boldest Flavor - "It's no wonder that Nespresso Scuro stands apart within the trio of double espresso pods. It's created with a blend of two Central American coffees: Arabica from Costa Rica and Robusta beans from Guatemala."

September 16, 2024

• iOS 18 Available Today With These 8 New Features For Your iPhone - "Customizable Home Screen - Redesigned Control Center - iMessage Enhancements - Redesigned Photos App - Locks Apps Behind Face ID - Passwords App - Distraction Control - Game Mode."
• Check Out iOS 18 Release Time In Your Local Time Zone - "Apple will release iOS 18 later today, and if you are eagerly waiting for the update to hit your iPhone, you should know at what time it will be made available to the general public. Apple usually releases its iOS updates at 10:00 AM PT, which is the company's standard time for all events and updates. If past trends are anything to go by, the company will release iOS 18 update at the same time."
• Trump rushed to safety & suspect held after man spotted with rifle - "Man held in apparent assassination attempt criticized Trump. FBI investigating apparent assassination attempt on Trump in Florida."
• ‘Looks like karma to me’: Hillary Clinton on Trump’s hush-money conviction - "Former first lady, who faced ‘lock her up’ calls from Trump supporters, says tears welled up in her eyes at verdict."
• What it costs to protect the world's wealthiest CEOs - "Protecting a billionaire CEO costs millions. Here’s how the world’s biggest companies measure up."
• Emmy highlights: ‘ShŌgun’ makes history, surprises & a ‘meow’ heard ‘round the world - "From historic winners to mentions of cats and dogs, here are the highlights from the 76th Emmy Awards."
• In pictures: TV stars on Emmy Awards red carpet - "The Emmy Awards 2024 have taken place, with Baby Reindeer, The Bear and Shogun leading the winners. Ahead of the ceremony in Los Angeles, nominees and other stars walked the red carpet. Here is a selection of photos."
• World’s rarest penguin crowned Bird of the Year - "A shy penguin wins New Zealand’s bird election after campaign filled with memes and tattoos."
• Apple Ring unveils its most unexpected function: Goodbye to the iPhone & Apple Watch with this invention - "There have been many rumors lately concerning Apple’s new product that might be unveiled soon - the Apple Ring. This wearable device might be an additional iPhone and Apple Watch accessory or a potential replacement. With increasing speculation, many ask if this hidden gadget can change how people communicate with technology."
• Kingmaker by Sonia Purnell review - Pamela Churchill Harriman’s astonishing life of seduction & power - "The eventful love life - and intelligence-gathering skills - of one of the most talked-about women of her age makes the first half of this sympathetic study more compelling than the postwar ‘gold-digging’ years."
• Watch Collecting 101: Expert Tips to Build Out Your Collection - "Watches are expensive, and their technical nature can be hard to wrap one’s arms around. Here’s where to start."
• In-Depth: F.P. Journe Tourbillon Souverain Vertical - "The final evolution of the his original invention. The very first wristwatch François-Paul Journe created was the Tourbillon Remontoir d’Egalité - three prototypes were made in 1993 and he retained the very first example. Arguably the most famous F.P. Journe wristwatch alongside the Résonance, the tourbillon has since evolved into the Tourbillon Souverain Vertical, which is likely the final version of the watchmaker’s take on Abraham-Louis Breguet’s invention."

September 15, 2024

• How would a Russian tactical nuclear strike play out? - "Military experts believe Putin will not launch a tactical nuke because his army lacks the elite troops and armoured vehicles to exploit any strike."
• The Long-Range Weapons Ukraine Wants to Use on Russia, Explained - "The United States and its allies are once again considering expanding the capabilities they provide to Ukraine in its fight against Russia’s invasion."
• The Star-Making Machine That Created ‘Donald Trump’ - "The inside story of how the producers of 'The Apprentice' crafted a TV version of Mr. Trump - measured, thoughtful and endlessly wealthy - that ultimately fueled his path to the White House."
• At the U.S. Open, a Quest for $100 Chicken Nuggets - "The tennis tournament is known for upscale offerings, but a new box of six 'golden' nuggets drew a covetous crowd, and plenty of attention online."
• An insider’s guide to chic Nantucket & that Perfect Couple scene - "US correspondent Josie Ensor shares the best of this Hamptons-esque Massachusetts island with unspoilt beaches - and where the hit Netflix thriller was filmed."
• 10 Reasons to Wait for Next Year's iPhone 17 - "If you plan to skip this year's iPhone 16, or if you're just plain curious about what's on the horizon, here are 10 rumored features that we are expecting to arrive in time for its successor, the iPhone 17 series, which is likely to be released in September 2025: 1. Under-Display Face ID. 2. New Display Sizes. 120Hz ProMotion (Always-on Display). 4. Apple-Designed Wi-Fi 7 Chip. 5. 48MP Telephoto Lens..."
• 22 Best Coffee Makers of 2024 to Get You Through the Day - "We put leading coffee machines (including Breville, OXO, and Ninja) to the test."
• The Tiny Tool That'll Make A Keurig An Actually Respectable Coffee Maker - "Reviewers say it’s a 'game-changer' for elevating the home coffee experience."
• 76th Primetime Emmy Awards Nominees - "All Nominees: Abbott Elementary, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Hacks, Only Murders In The Building, Palm Royale, Reservation Dogs, The Bear, What We Do In The Shadows."
• The name’s Bond... ‘Biffy’ Bond? The real-life sailor, spy & friend of Ian Fleming who ‘inspired 007’ - "The Bond-like adventures of Biffy began in 1916 in Russia and appear straight from the pages of 007 thrillers."
• This Legendary Film Icon Is the Most Expensively Dressed Movie Character of All Time - "However, one character was nowhere to be seen, despite now being named the most expensively dressed movie character of all time by Guinness World Records. That is the man with a license to kill: James Bond, specifically Daniel Craig's portrayal of the character in Spectre."
• Queen Victoria’s favorite Tuscan villa for sale for more than $55 million - "Situated in the hills on the outskirts of Florence, the villa sprawls languidly over almost 4,000 square meters (43,000 square feet) while its garden spans nine hectares (22 acres), making it the second-largest park in the city, according to a statement sent to CNN by Dreamer Real Estate, which is handling the sale."

September 14, 2024

• US election polls: Who is ahead - Harris or Trump? - "Voters in the US go to the polls on 5 November to elect their next president."
• Laura Loomer: Who is conspiracy theorist travelling with Trump? - "Ms Loomer is well-known for her anti-Muslim rhetoric and for spreading conspiracy theories, including that the 9/11 attacks were an 'inside job' carried out by the US government."
• A day in Elon Musk’s mind: 145 tweets with election conspiracies & emojis - "A controversial tweet may make it to the news, but reading every post from the world’s richest man shows how frenzied and extreme he really is."
• Inside Elon Musk’s Mushrooming Security Apparatus - "As threats to his personal safety have become graver, the world’s richest man has barricaded himself behind a phalanx of bodyguards that operates like a mini-Secret Service."
• Jeff Bezos' $80m Gulfstream G700 is an ultra-fast machine - "Jeff Bezos recently bought a Gulfstream G700 - It's extremely fast and can almost reach the speed of sound - The aircraft broke two transatlantic speed records."
• How the EU’s landmark Apple tax ruling gave Ireland €13bn it didn’t want - "After losing a court case, Ireland stands to gain a huge amount of money it fought not to gain and is unsure how to spend."
• The princess & the judge: Samuel Alito’s ties to a German aristocrat who defends the far right - "The US supreme court justice accepted $900 concert tickets from billionaire Gloria von Thurn und Taxis. Who is the socialite linked to rightwing networks?"
• Larry the Downing St cat is a little s****, says Scottish secretary - "Larry the Downing Street cat is 'the most miserable animal you'll ever meet in your life', according to the Scottish secretary of state. Ian Murray took a swipe at the chief mouser to the Cabinet Office after revealing it had shunned a photo-op with new Labour MPs."
• 10-Minute Challenge: ‘The Unicorn Rests in a Garden’ - "We’d like you to look at one piece of art for 10 minutes, uninterrupted."
• ‘We can be violent to ourselves. Brutal’: Demi Moore on body image, reinvention & her most shocking role yet - "After a lifetime of scrutiny, the actor has returned for a ‘grotesque’ feminist body horror about recapturing lost youth. She talks about no longer ‘chasing perfection’, living alone, and feeling truly free at 61."
• Clear Your iPhone Cache Before You Upgrade to iOS 18 - "The latest iPhone operating system releases next week. Do some digital decluttering while you wait: 1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone. 2. Select Safari from the list of apps. 3. Go to Clear History and Website Data. 4. Choose Clear History and Data in the pop-up box."
• 5 Cool Features Coming to Your iPhone Next Week - "iOS 18 rolls out on Monday. And your iPhone's Home Screen and Control Center are going to get way more customizable."
• iOS 18 review: The beginning of a new era has been delayed - "After two months of beta testing, iOS 18 is just around the corner. Here's everything you need to know about this system in our review. Apple’s latest operating system update brings several nice-to-have features, but it still lacks Apple Intelligence."
• Apple to release iOS 17.7 with security patches - "Apple will give users the option to stay on iOS 17 and get security patches. Users will see both updates in the iPhone and iPad Settings app and will be able to choose to stay on iOS 17 with the latest security patches or upgrade to iOS 18 with new features. It's worth noting that this isn't the first time Apple has given users a similar option."
• Forget iPhone 16 - these 9 apps can make your old iPhone rival Apple Intelligence - "I'm skipping the upgrade for now because my old iPhone has AI apps that already do everything I need."

September 13, 2024

• Why is Friday the 13th unlucky? The cultural origins of an enduring superstition - "When it comes to bad luck, there are few superstitions as pervasive in Western culture as that of Friday the 13th. Like crossing paths with a black cat and breaking a mirror, the notion of a day that can bring misfortune is deeply embedded - even if believers can’t quite explain why. There’s even a name to describe the irrational dread of the date: paraskevidekatriaphobia - a specialized form of triskaidekaphobia, a fear of the number 13."
• Why Trump ditched a debate rematch - for now - "The great showman just turned his back on tens of millions of viewers. Donald Trump’s refusal to take part in another presidential debate with Democratic nominee Kamala Harris marks a significant moment in the 2024 campaign - and hints at vulnerability for a political career built on the foundation of his television fame and mastery of stagecraft."
• Putin draws new red line on long-range missiles - "Speaking in St Petersburg, President Putin sent a clear warning to the West: don’t allow Ukraine to use your long-range missiles to strike Russian territory. Moscow, he said, would view that as the “direct participation” of Nato countries in the war in Ukraine."
• All Your Questions About New Covid Shots, Answered - "We asked experts where and when you should get them, and how to lessen the side effects."
• Ig Nobel prize goes to team who found mammals can breathe through anuses - "Scientific research on pigeon missiles and dead trout also win at awards for amusing studies with serious implications."
• How to Make Squats Easier on Your Knees - "You can still work out, even if you your joints aren’t what they once were. It’s the one exercise most of us should be doing. But we need to do it right."
• How the Pursuit of Perfect Sleep Can Backfire - "Online and off, so-called sleepmaxxers are going to extreme lengths in pursuit of better sleep. Is that a problem?"
• What Is 'Man Flu' & Can Men Really Get It? - "Videos and memes mock men for overreacting when they catch an everyday illness. But is there a biological reason for men’s behavior?"
• The world’s best pizza for 2024 isn’t in Naples - or even in Italy. Here’s where it is ... - "This week, the Italy-based 50 Top Pizza Awards came out with its 2024 worldwide list, and a Lower East Side restaurant, New York, came out on top."
• In the South of France, a Utopian Town Inspired by Ancient Pyramids - "Once derided, La Grande Motte, a surreal 1960s resort in the South of France, is increasingly seen as having been ahead of its time."
• Gladiator II to The Day of the Jackal: The best culture to look forward to this autumn - "From imagined futures to midlife stories and the return of the erotic – here are our recommendations for the best offerings of the season in books, film, TV shows and more."
• 3 great British TV crime shows you need to watch in September 2024 - "September marks the return of the fall season, which is an ideal time for the British crime genre. Cold weather, rain-drenched countryside locations, and dead bodies - what could be more autumnal than that?"
• Denmark returns iconic indigenous cloak to Brazil - "Indigenous leaders in Brazil have celebrated the return of a sacred cloak that had been on display at a Danish museum for more than 300 years."
• ‘I set a goal to make her famous’: the baby pygmy hippo who became a giant online - "Moo-Deng from Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Thailand has amassed a legion of fans thanks to her viral fame across TikTok, Facebook and Instagram."
• Mallorca’s transformation into a tourist hotspot - in pictures - "As Spain struggles with overtourism, a unique photo archive in Mallorca shows the island’s transformation from rural idyll into a mass tourism destination."
• Chad McQueen, ‘Karate Kid’ Actor & Son of Film Star Steve McQueen, Dies at 63 - "He died of organ failure after being injured in a fall in 2020 from which he never fully recovered, his friend tells THR."

September 12, 2024

• In Debate With Trump, Harris’s Expressions Were a Weapon - "Tuesday’s debate was expected to center on defining Kamala Harris. Instead, with words and with body language, she turned it into a referendum on Donald Trump."
• How to Turn Your Old iPhone Into an A.I. Phone (& Skip the Upgrade) - "Apple is using Apple Intelligence, a suite of tools for generating images and text, to upsell the iPhone 16. But you can get similar features elsewhere."
• 5 Unusual Habits That Indicate A High Level Of Intelligence - "We often equate intelligence with academic prowess, impressive degrees, or mastery of complex subjects. However, intelligence is a multifaceted quality that shows up in unexpected ways. Recent studies have uncovered fascinating links between quirky habits and high cognitive ability. Let’s explore five of these surprising habits and what they might reveal about the workings of a brilliant mind."
• 13 Unwritten Rules to Know Before Traveling to Paris - "Everything Parisians want you to know before you visit, from dining etiquette to public transportation tips."
• World’s top 10 airline rewards programs - "Here are the top 10 programs globally and their scores on a 100-point scale, according to Point.me’s analysis."
• 'Vintage has become its own luxury status symbol': The rise of 'archival fashion' - "As London fashion week kicks off, 'trophy vintage' is increasingly sought after. Samina Virk, US CEO of fashion resale site Vestiaire Collective, on how pre-loved has become a fashion go-to - even for Netflix's Emily in Paris."
• Scientists Discovered An Amazing Practical Use For Our Leftover Coffee Grounds - "We could be producing concrete that's 30 percent stronger by processing and adding charred coffee grounds to the mix, researchers in Australia discovered. Every year the world produces a staggering 10 billion kilograms (22 billion pounds) of coffee waste globally. Most ends up in landfills."
• How water shaped New York City - "As NYC turns 400, one of the best ways of understanding what propelled the city's astronomical growth is by paddling the rivers that built it."
• On the Waterfront review: ‘self-assured realism’ - archive, 1954 - "11 September 1954: The film has the force of a crime report with the precision of a work of craftsmanship."
• ‘I’ll have them with hot sauce’: should vegans eat oysters? - "Bivalve veganism is built on the philosophy that molluscs such as mussels and oysters feel no pain. But some say the scientific jury is still out."
• Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold review: the ideal foldable phone design - "Book-style foldable is just like a regular phone when closed but opens to reveal large and bright tablet screen."

September 11, 2024

• 7 takeaways from a contentious debate - "Kamala Harris baited Donald Trump for nearly all of the 1 hour and 45 minutes of their first and potentially only debate on Tuesday night – and Trump took every bit of it."
• Fact-checking the ABC News presidential debate - "Former President Donald Trump delivered more than 30 false claims during Tuesday’s presidential debate against Vice President Kamala Harris, CNN’s preliminary count found – as he did during his June debate against President Joe Biden."
• Taylor Swift endorses Kamala Harris in post signed 'Childless Cat Lady' - "Taylor Swift said Tuesday she is supporting Vice President Kamala Harris in the race for president, ending speculation about whether the superstar singer would share her political views ahead of November’s election."
• Trump Mocks Harris’s Height. But Her Fans See a Certain Stature - "Kamala Harris is modest in stature, but is considered by some to have Tall Energy. Donald Trump has insisted she shouldn’t be allowed to use 'boxes or artificial lifts' during the debate."
• Who won the Harris-Trump presidential debate? - "A snap CNN poll of voters watching said that Harris performed better and betting markets said the same."
• Why you won’t be lining up for the new iPhone 16 - "Most European users won’t be getting integrated AI on Apple devices, so are the updates offered by Apple just window dressing?"
• Inside the Funeral Home for New York’s Luminaries - "Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. John Lennon. Greta Garbo. Jean-Michel Basquiat. Mae West. Arthur Ashe. Ivana Trump. Luther Vandross. Heath Ledger. George Balanchine. George Gershwin. Mario Cuomo. Biggie Smalls. Nikola Tesla. Celia Cruz. Joan Rivers. Aaliyah. Ayn Rand. Lena Horne. Norman Mailer. Philip Seymour Hoffman. Logan Roy. What do these people have in common? The answer is that, shortly after their deaths, they passed through the Frank E. Campbell funeral home on the Upper East Side of Manhattan."
• Seeking tourists: Four countries that are actively welcoming travellers - "Following this summer's heated protests against overtourism, there's some good news. For every overcrowded tourist spot in Europe, there are plenty of places around the world that need more visitors."
• Why Dom PÉrignon Scrapped Its Entire 2023 Champagne Vintage - "Inside the cellar master's decision to walk away from an entire year. Realizing the entire 2023 vintage was just not good enough, Chaperon rejected the entire cellar of base wine."
• Physics breakthrough brings nuclear clock closer to reality - "Picture a clock ticking so steadily that it doesn’t lose a second, even after running for 1 billion years. Scientists are now closer than ever to realizing that level of timekeeping precision, new research has revealed."
• Why Do Americans Want to Dress Like Swedes? - "The Stockholm fashion label Toteme has a no-nonsense, 'pragmatic' look - and a lot of fans in New York."
• 15 Pieces You Need To Create A Capsule Wardrobe That Lasts! - "Here are 15 pieces you need to create a capsule wardrobe that lasts. When you create outfits you love, you will look and feel great too!"
• Are Special Clothes You Don’t Wear Anymore Worth Keeping? - "A reader wonders what she should do with the high-end garments that stay in her closet year round. Our fashion critic explains her options."
• After Decades of Dry Martinis, It’s Great to Go Wet - "The wet martini served by a new restaurant in Manhattan reflects an appreciation of vermouth that’s been a long time coming."
• French first lady Brigitte Macron to make cameo in Netflix’s Emily in Paris - "Despite criticism of the series in France, Macron will appear as herself in the show’s fourth season when new episodes arrive on Thursday."
• Giant tortoises in Seychelles face threat from luxury hotel development - "Conservationists and botanists express concern over plans for Qatari-funded upscale resort on Assomption Island."
• Aldabra Atoll - "The atoll is comprised of four large coral islands which enclose a shallow lagoon; the group of islands is itself surrounded by a coral reef. Due to difficulties of access and the atoll's isolation, Aldabra has been protected from human influence and thus retains some 152,000 giant tortoises, the world's largest population of this reptile."

September 10, 2024

• Key things Apple announced at its hardware event - "The newest iPhone Pro isn't as expensive as you think (relatively speaking)."
• Can Apple’s iPhones Pass the A.I. Test? - "On Monday, the company will introduce smartphones with A.I. features that could take the technology mainstream or sow fresh doubts about its viability."
• you don't need a new phone with every apple release - "You Don’t Need a New Phone. Here’s How to Make the One You Have Last Longer."
• Harris & Trump prepare to face off in tonight’s debate - "A stunning contrast will be visible on the debate stage."
• What Trump Means When He Mispronounces ‘Kamala’ - "Since Vice President Kamala Harris became the presumptive Democratic nominee for president, Donald Trump has been invoking her name a lot. Well, something close to her name. Harris pronounces it 'KA-ma-la.' Trump, however, has often been pronouncing it 'Ka-MA-la' or even 'KUH-ma-la.'"
• Europe’s ‘Reason for Being’ Is at Risk as Competitiveness Wanes, Report Warns - "The European Union, facing a shrinking share of the global economy, needs to increase its spending by nearly $900 billion a year, according to a long-awaited report from Mario Draghi."
• What if I’m the ‘Friend’ Donald Trump Referred To? - "Donald Trump’s word-salad oratory has always been a distinctive feature of his public life, leaving some observers to grasp for a novel way to describe it. Last week Trump himself gave it a name, one that sounds kind of like a ’70s dance: 'the weave.'"
• A.I. Can Now Create Lifelike Videos. Can You Tell What’s Real? - "Can you tell the difference? Take our quiz."
• How to Use Apple’s Distraction Control Feature in Safari - "Distraction Control, which removes annoying elements from web pages, is coming to the iPhone's default browser with the release of iOS 18."
• Chocolate, but without the guilt? - "Why lab-grown cocoa and fermented fava beans could be the future."
• People who act friendly but secretly dislike you often display these 8 specific behaviors - "Sometimes, people aren’t as they seem. They smile, act friendly, but beneath the surface, there’s a different story unfolding. They might not like you as much as they pretend to. The tricky part is, these people are good at hiding their true feelings. But fear not, there are subtle signs that give them away."
• Greed, Gluttony & the Crackup of Red Lobster - "How missed opportunities, a $1.5 billion real estate deal, all-you-can-eat shrimp and the global pandemic sank the country’s largest seafood chain."
• Babylonian Map of the World: The oldest known map of the ancient world - "The ancient map offers a glimpse of how the Babylonians viewed the world thousands of years ago."
• James Earl Jones: a life in pictures - "The actor has died aged 93. His stage and screen career spanned seven decades, and he was known for his signature voice, which brought The Lion King’s Mufasa and Star Wars’ Darth Vader to life."

September 9, 2024

• How to watch Apple’s ‘Glowtime’ iPhone 16 event - "Apple's 'Glowtime' event starts Monday, September 9th, at 1PM ET / 10AM PT. Apple will be streaming the event on its website, in the Apple TV app, and on YouTube."
• It's Glowtime - "Watch today at 10 a.m. PT." Apple's official website.
• Here is what will happen on day one of Trump’s presidency, according to Project 2025 - "As Trump utters the last phrase of the oath of office - ‘so help me God’ - the first phase of what Project 2025’s authors call ‘the playbook’ begins."
• Elon Musk on pace to become world’s first trillionaire by 2027, report says - "In addition to world’s richest person, who has $251bn, report names others on track to receive trillionaire status."
• This attraction was closed in 1987. But tourists are still risking their lives to visit it - "‘Someone is going to get hurt or killed’: 14 people arrested for illegal hiking in Hawaii: Hawaii’s famous Haiku Stairs, sometimes called the Stairway to Heaven."
• The More This Rolex Costs, the More You Want It. Here's Why - "A 125-year-old theory explains why humans want luxury items even more when the prices go up. Blame social media - and ubiquitous counterfeits - for making it even worse."
• Why do some people give human feelings to inanimate objects? What experts say - "Anthropomorphizing is the action of attributing human behaviors or feelings to animals or objects - which cannot feel the same emotions as humans do."
• Europe's Second-Smallest Country Is An Underrated Mediterranean Slice Of Coastal Paradise - "A coastal paradise smaller than the footprint of New York City's Central Park, Monaco is a tiny Mediterranean country tucked along the French Riviera."
• The 10 best-connected airports in the world for 2024 - "These airports offer the highest number of non-stop flight destinations, according to a new study."
• A revolutionary gin from Sir Isaac Newton's iconic apple tree - "After more than 300 years, Newton’s law of gravitation is still palpable at a revolutionary Cambridge distillery."
• The Secret to Deeper Friendships Is in Your Calendar - "A standing meeting at the diner has led to new levels in connection and community."
• Linda Evangelista: I regret saying I’d never get out of bed for less than $10k - "Supermodel says her quote from 1990 is 'really sticking' and that she doesn’t want her career to be defined by it."
• Nicole Kidman Wore the Classic Jeans Trend That Comes Back Every Fall - Shop Similar Pairs from $16 - "Nicole Kidman just proved that it’s not too early to start breaking out your fall wardrobe staples. Shop Similar Pairs from $16. Bootcut Jeans Inspired by Nicole Kidman."
• 9 Burning Questions We Still Need Answered After ‘The Perfect Couple’ Finale - "Forget the fireworks. Netflix’s The Perfect Couple closed out its Fourth of July weekend murder mystery with a few of its own bombshells."
• Doing lunges while brushing your teeth & other ways to stack healthy habits - "What Kee was doing is called habit stacking, a term coined by author S.J. Scott in his 2014 book of the same name. It also goes by habit pairing or piggybacking. The premise is intuitive: Attach a behavior you want to start doing to something you already do automatically every day."
• Auracast broadcast audio - "Auracast broadcast audio is a new Bluetooth capability that will deliver life-changing audio experiences."
• Stairways to modernist heaven - in pictures - "Architecture obsessive Adam Štěch has photographed the interiors of over 5,000 modern gems around the globe, from hunting lodges to high-rises. Ahead of a new exhibition, he shares his favourite flights of fancy."

September 8, 2024

• Dolly Alderton: My 58 rules for life - "Long walks, adult sleepovers and avoiding takeaways: after four years as Style’s agony aunt the writer reveals the lessons she’s learnt. Dolly Alderton has dispensed words of wisdom on dating, friendship and everything in between. Her top tips for life?"
• Life as an oligarch’s tutor: Bentleys, paranoia & naked saunas - "Vladimir Putin is reportedly advertising for a tutor for his two young sons. Matt Knott, who spent several years working the Russian super-rich, says there can be eye-popping perks."
• Inside the Trump-Harris Debate Prep: Method Acting, Insults, Tough Questions - "Kamala Harris is camped out at a Pittsburgh hotel. Donald Trump is being peppered informally by aides. Both sides share the same belief about why the debate is so crucial."
• How Telegram Became a Playground for Criminals, Extremists & Terrorists - "Drug dealers, scammers and white nationalists openly conduct business and spread toxic speech on the platform, according to a Times analysis of more than 3.2 million Telegram messages."
• Pro-euthanasia film The Room Next Door wins top prize in Venice - "The feature film starring Tilda Swinton and Julianne Moore took the prestigious Golden Lion award on Saturday."
• The Junkification of American Life - "Why we want the wrong things."
• Time to Say Goodbye to the B.M.I.? - "The body mass index has long been criticized as a flawed indicator of health. A replacement has been gaining support: the body roundness index. The B.M.I. fails to capture the health risks faced by many patients. The B.R.I. is a better measure of abdominal fat, which is more closely linked to cancer, heart disease and other ailments."
• 6 European Cities Where You Can Swim in the Wild - "Looking to take a dip in or near a city center? Here are some urban areas that have successfully opened up waterways for swimmers: Paris - Copenhagen - Oslo - London - Munich - Basel, Switzerland."
• Space planes have tried & failed before. Will this one succeed? - "Radian Aerospace, a Seattle-based company founded in 2016, is designing the Radian One, a 'space plane' seen here in an artist’s rendition and capable of reaching orbit in a single stage - without dropping components on the way up, like rockets. Radian says this would make space exploration much cheaper."
• People are angry at Gen Z taking photos of airport trays. Here’s what’s really going on - "Curating collections of travel accessories is a new viral trend. No sooner have airports introduced new scanning machines so you don’t need to unpack your carry-on bags, than a trend emerges where you photograph all your loose items in your airport security tray. The 'airport tray aesthetic' has taken off on TikTok, Instagram and Pinterest."
• Stonehenge tale gets ‘weirder’ as Orkney is ruled out as altar stone origin - "Weeks after revelation that megalith came from Scotland, researchers make surprise discovery."
• A personal chef's culinary guide to the Hamptons - "Chef Olivia Tiedemann loves flipping the bird to convention. Here are the Hamptons culinary experiences that get her thumbs up, from classic lobster rolls to elite farm stands."

September 7, 2024

• Are Some Ultraprocessed Foods Worse Than Others? - "Of the 10 ultraprocessed food categories they looked at, two were clearly associated with greater risk: sugar-sweetened drinks (like soda and fruit punch) and processed meat, poultry and fish (like bacon, hot dogs, breaded fish products, chicken sausages and salami sandwiches). A new study may offer the biggest clues yet."
• How to Eat for a Long & Healthy Life - "There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, but certain dietary patterns are more associated with longer lives than others. Prioritize protein, especially from plants. - Incorporate bone-strengthening nutrients. - Pump up the polyphenols. - Focus on healthy fats. - Limit ultraprocessed foods. - Consider the big picture."
• 6 Mistakes New Runners Make - "Running experts and coaches share their best advice for avoiding these common pitfalls. Pace yourself, don't race yourself. - Set goals that fit your lifestyle. - Fuel before and after your runs. - Find a running crew, and consider a coach. - Keep your gear simple. - Master the art of resting."
• Selena Gomez joins billionaire celebrity rich list - "The celebrity joins the billionaire ranks thanks to her Rare Beauty make-up business. The brand's success has made her one of the 'youngest female self-made' wealthy on the list, alongside the likes of Taylor Swift and Rihanna. Selena Gomez rose to fame as a child star on Barney and the Disney Channel. Her latest role? Billionaire."
• Magnus Carlsen beats Hans Niemann in first match since infamous cheating scandal - "World No. 1 Carlsen defeated Niemann 17.5-12.5 in their semifinal at the 2024 Speed Chess Championship in Paris on Friday in a match affected by issues with the technology used to play on."
• Power, oil & a $450m painting - insiders on the rise of Saudi's Crown Prince - "In January 2015, Abdullah, the 90-year-old king of Saudi Arabia, was dying in hospital. His half-brother, Salman, was about to become king - and Salman’s favourite son, Mohammed bin Salman, was preparing for power."
• The secret to looking effortlessly stylish? A little work and a few simple rules - "Give the impression you are chic to your bones by keeping things understated and adding a personal twist."
• Work hard, play hard: How US vacations made America No. 1 in the world - "In travel news this week: booze-free bars are on the rise, the unexpected perks of traveling with kids, plus the countries whose tourism economies are booming. The United States is the world’s most powerful travel and tourism market, bringing in a record-breaking $2.36 trillion to the nation’s economy in 2023, a new report by industry body the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has revealed."
• Tesla launches world's first all-electric 'Giga Train' - "Tesla's highly anticipated 'Giga Train,' its first all-electric battery-powered train, has debuted in Germany."
• My Top 8 Hiking Gadgets for 2024 - "September is my favorite month to hike. These are the gadgets and gear that make the most difference on the trails."

September 6, 2024

• The planet endures its hottest summer on record - for the second straight year - "Summer broke global heat records for the second straight year, scientists have confirmed - putting 2024 firmly on track to be the hottest year in recorded history. The period between June and August - summer in the Northern Hemisphere - was the world’s hottest such period since records began in 1940, according to data published Friday by Copernicus, Europe’s climate change service."
• Harris or Trump? The Prophet of Presidential Elections Is Ready to Call the Race - "Donald Trump and Kamala Harris are scheduled to debate on Sept. 10, but the 2024 presidential election is already in the bag - at least according to Allan Lichtman, the American University historian who’s been dubbed the Nostradamus of presidential election predictions for his near-perfect 40-year track record."
• 13 Keys Tracker - "13 Keys Tracker is a free interactive tool for predicting the 2024 Election, based on Professor Allan Lichtman's famous 13 Keys to the White House. Allan Lichtman Officially Predicts That Kamala Harris Will Win the Election!"
• Rome may limit tourist access to Trevi Fountain - "City authorities are considering introducing paid reservations to visit the Trevi Fountain."
• Awe-inspiring images of the world’s most remarkable tennis courts - "To the untrained eye, a tennis court is merely an amalgamation of nine parallel and perpendicular lines, converging to define the limitations of movement for both ball and player. But to American photographer and journalist Nick Pachelli, a tennis court is the harmonious union of surface, sound, and spectators, complemented by the natural elements and the inherent intensity of tennis."
• This Underrated Airline Has a Sauna in Its Lounge - Plus Especially Comfortable Business-class Seats - "Finnair may not be the first choice for US travelers headed abroad. However, the Helsinki-based carrier should certainly be in the conversation. It makes for a great alternative connecting to Eastern Europe and Asia."
• I stayed in a $32,000-a-night suite on the world's most expensive train to find out if it was worth it - "The Grand Suite on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express costs upwards of $32,000 a night from Paris to Venice for a single occupancy."
• 15 Unforgettable Looks at the Venice Film Festival - "The event, held not long after the couture shows in Paris, has been a showcase for new designs as well as vintage pieces."
• Ralph Lauren goes classic for Hamptons show steeped in the American dream - "Designer rolls out signature styles and western-inspired pieces for show opening New York fashion week."
• Cat 'returns from dead' four days after cremation - "A cat surprised its owners by walking through the cat flap days after it was thought to have been cremated."
• Chess players, from orbiting cosmonauts to the Wu-Tang Clan - in pictures - "An incredible collection of photographs documenting the intersection of chess and culture is published by FUEL, in the year FIDE (the International Chess Federation) celebrates its 100th anniversary. Artists, actors, musicians and more all show their love of the most cerebral of games in Chess Players, published in association with World Chess and FIDE."

September 5, 2024

• TIME100 Most Influential People in AI 2024 - "The 100 most influential people in artificial intelligence."
• Record number of millionaires relocating in 2024, with Monaco among top destinations - "A record 128,000 millionaires are expected to relocate globally in 2024, up 6.6 percent from the previous year, driven by factors like tax policy changes, better market conditions, and a desire for improved living standards."
• Putin's two secret sons with gymnast lover are revealed - "Ivan, nine, and Vladimir Jr, five, live in a mansion guarded by the Kremlin where they have full-time staff and annoy their father with Disney impressions. Putin has never made any direct reference to the boys. However, this week, he told schoolchildren in Siberia that, 'Members of my family, the little ones, speak Chinese.' His sons also study English and German."
• Deregulation & Dishonesty Led to Deadly Grenfell Fire, Inquiry Finds - "A damning final report into Britain’s worst residential fire since World War II blamed a litany of cost-cutting, dishonest sales practices and lax regulation for the blaze that killed 72 people."
• How did the Grenfell Tower fire start? A visual guide to the disaster - "Just before 1am on June 14, 2017, a fire broke out in the kitchen of flat 16, on the fourth floor of the 24-storey Grenfell Tower in North Kensington, west London. It began in or around a Hotpoint fridge-freezer. A smoke alarm woke the flat's resident, Behailu Kebede, who called the fire brigade."
• Australia’s Great Barrier Reef tries to make sustainability cool - "Australia is offering discounts to tourists who watch science videos. Will it work?"
• the best watches of geneva watch days & Watches & Wonders shanghai special 2024 - "This past week, two major events of the industry took place: Geneva Watch Days and Watches & Wonders Shanghai. As you can probably guess, this led to a massive amount of novelties from numerous brands, not just from the participants of the events themselves, but also to all those who wanted to benefit from the enormous media coverage at this moment. We did our best to include as many of our favourites below as possible."
• Independent Russian watchmaker upends race to design world’s thinnest wristwatch - "Luxury brands Bulgari, Piaget and Richard Mille have all, since 2018, held the coveted record, which was most recently broken by Bulgari’s sleek 1.7-millimeter-thick Octo Finissimo Ultra Mark II, in April. But now, an independent Russian watchmaker and inventor may have trumped them all. Moscow-based Konstantin Chaykin says his new ThinKing prototype, which he debuted at the Geneva Watch Days fair in Switzerland last week, is just 1.65 millimeters (less than one-fifteenth of an inch) thick. He also believes it to be among the world’s lightest watches, weighing just 13.3 grams (less than 0.47 ounces), without its strap."
• Sitting All Day Can Cause Dead Butt Syndrome - "The name might make you snicker, but addressing 'gluteal amnesia' can help you avoid chronic pain."
• The experts: dietitians on 20 ways to cut down on UPFs while still eating what you love - "Ultra-processed foods are everywhere - but a few small tweaks to your diet can minimise the damage they cause. Here’s how to go about it."
• A 'Life Review' Can Be Powerful, at Any Age - "Reflecting on the past, through writing or conversation, can help us better appreciate where we are - and where we’re going."
• This airport was once the gateway to Europe. Now no one’s heard of it - "The words 'Croydon' and 'destination' are not what you’d call soulmates. Britain’s first international airport."
• 'Chic is chic, right?' Designer Christian Siriano on plus-size fashion & reality TV - "As New York fashion week kicks off, US designer Christian Siriano talks reality TV, his celebrity clients - and proving the doubters wrong."
• Keanu Reeves at 60: from surfer dude to action hero, his 20 best films - ranked! - "Good cop, bad cop, Shakespearean villain - he’s done the lot. To mark the milestone birthday of one of the nicest men in Hollywood, we run down his finest works."
• Scandal-hit Fyre festival is back with tickets at nearly $8,000 - "Event in 2017 was axed over inadequate accommodation, food and water - and landed its co-founder in jail for fraud."
• The Perfect Couple review - Nicole Kidman’s gorgeous murder mystery is ludicrously good - "It’s almost impossible to resist bingeing the entirety of this classy detective drama set around a posh wedding in Nantucket. It’s a glorious, perfectly paced delight. The Perfect Couple is on Netflix."

September 4, 2024

• The ‘glory days’ for global automakers in China are over - "The rapid rise of China’s homegrown electric vehicle (EV) makers, such as BYD and Xpeng (XPEV), is upending the largest passenger car market on the planet and leaving the world’s biggest carmakers on the losing end."
• OpenAI, Still Haunted by Its Chaotic Past, Is Trying to Grow Up - "The maker of ChatGPT is struggling to transform itself into a profit-driven company while satisfying worries about the safety of artificial intelligence."
• How Should We Mourn the End of Summer? - "It comes gradually at first, then, like the Hemingway-ism, suddenly. Beach chairs fold up. Kayaks return to garages. Speculative camping trips remain just that. The plans and possibilities of summer cease. The season’s conclusion can spark a sense of loss."
• This tourism experience costs $800 for an hour. Here’s why it’s worth it - "One country is easily forgotten when it comes to spending time in true wilderness and getting up close to nature: Uganda. This East African gem has it all for the wildlife obsessive: the plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park, home to tree-climbing lions and leopards; the Kazinga Channel with its hippos, elephants, crocodiles and stunning fish eagles; and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Quite simply, it’s underrated and waiting to be explored - especially one profound tourism experience that costs $800 an hour, but is said to be worth every single dollar."
• Do You Have Healthy Brain Habits? - "These 12 questions can help assess your risk for dementia, stroke and depression, and identify ways to reduce it."
• Hydrogen-powered skyscraper set for Egypt’s new capital - "Egypt’s 'New Administrative Capital,' a new city deep into construction outside Cairo, has prompted plenty of blue-sky thinking. But few ideas have been as ambitious as powering a skyscraper with hydrogen."
• The $10 million cocktail everyone is drinking at the US Open - "At the US Open currently underway in New York, a single cocktail will surpass $10 million in sales before the tennis grand slam event ends September 8. The Honey Deuce - a mix of vodka, lemonade and a raspberry liqueur, plus its signature melon balls - has become a major success for both Grey Goose and the tournament. It’s the result of a strategic marketing campaign that exploded as tennis’ popularity did."
• Slow Horses: The anti-James Bond that gets to the heart of Britishness - "With a new series launching today, Apple TV+'s spy show about MI5 rejects is more popular than ever. As with the Mick Herron books it's based on, it has lots to say about the UK today."
• ‘Fake heiress’ Anna Sorokin will compete on ‘Dancing With the Stars’ amid deportation battle - "Described as the 'notorious ankle bracelet fashionista' in a press release, Sorokin was announced Wednesday on 'Good Morning America' along with the likes of former NBA star Dwight Howard, actor Tori Spelling and Jenn Tran, 'The Bachelorette' lead whose season ended in heartbreak just Tuesday night. Tran, the first Asian American 'Bachelorette,' was a contestant on Joey Graziadei’s season of 'The Bachelor' - and he, too, will be vying for the trophy."
• 12 Limited Edition Nespresso Pods That We Need Year-Round - "Nespresso has a pod flavor for every type of coffee drinker. Here are a few Nespresso's best-loved limited edition pods, that deserve to be available all year."
• This Five-Second Hack Makes One of Your Swiss Army Knife’s Coolest Tools Work Much Better - "The pen included in many newer models is handy but also quite flimsy until you try this quick trick. Now you can essentially hold the knife by the handles, with your index finger near the tip of the pen, and write in a much more comfortable and natural fashion. Probably not Moby Dick but at least The Old Man and the Sea."
• Macallan debuts world's oldest single malt Scotch - "Scotch whisky brand The Macallan has released its oldest single malt to date, an 81-year-old bottling called The Reach. The 41.6% ABV expression is limited to 288 decanters globally, priced at RRP US$125,000/£92,000/€110,000."

September 3, 2024

• Apple Phone 16, iPhone 16 Pro Release Date Schedule: Your Complete Countdown - "The iPhone 16 series, that is, the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max, are almost here. Here’s your complete guide to what, I believe, will happen when, before Apple confirms stuff. One of the key questions about what’s being revealed (and actually, when it will be released) is exactly what Apple means with the tagline 'It’s Glowtime.'"
• Top 10 Richest Countries in the World - "Luxembourg leads global GDP per capita rankings, outpacing countries like Ireland and Macao SAR. This analysis highlights the impact of population size and specialized economies on wealth distribution, with insights into how smaller nations with rich resources, like San Marino and Qatar, achieve high per capita income."
• 5 Things To Buy To Be Happier, According To Psychology - "This article explores five scientifically backed ways to spend money that can lead to increased happiness: 1. Invest In Experiences. 2. Prioritize Health And Wellness Products. 3. Embrace Time-Saving Services. 4. Practice Prosocial Spending. 5. Invest In Education And Skill-Building."
• 10 wonders of the world & countries to find them - "A top-10 list of the greatest wonders in the world and the countries where they will be found."
• You really do need to wash fruits & vegetables before eating them. Here’s the best way - "Fresh produce may also become contaminated during packaging, preparation or storage. Even produce grown in greenhouses hydroponically can still harbor germs and pesticides. Washing fruits and vegetables is of real food safety importance. But what’s the best way to do it?"
• I Paid My Child $100 to Read a Book - "Every lifelong reader knows why reading books is important. But how do you convey all that to a reluctant 12-year-old?"
• Over or underdressed - which tribe are you? - "Amal Clooney is part of a select club of globally famous, immaculately turned-out women. Why wear jeans and a T-shirt when you could wear Versace instead, asks Hilary Rose."
• Larry the cat has a young rival in Downing St - "Sir Keir Starmer’s new family pet, a Siberian kitten, faces a unique challenge - there is no cat flap in Downing Street’s bomb-proof doors."
• Financial infidelity? ‘I bought a villa, my husband didn’t know’ - "You may not tell your partner about new shoes, but the rich hide whole houses."
• You Probably Need to Clear Your iPhone Cache - "Give your browsing an autumnal reset by refreshing your browsers cache: 1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone. 2. Select Safari from the list of apps. 3. Go to Clear History and Website Data. 4. Choose Clear History and Data in the pop-up box."

September 2, 2024

• Daily croissant can take a toll on your heart in under a month - "Eating buttery foods such as pastries and cakes every day for three weeks can increase the risk of serious heart problems."
• Where’s James Bond gone? How an Amazon deal put 007 on hold - "As the hiatus between films reaches three years this month, there is still said to be no script, no director and no actor to succeed Daniel Craig."
• I’m 36 - when do I have to give up crop tops? - "Cropped shirts began making my way into my wardrobe at 31, after several major upheavals caused me to rebuild my life in the way that I saw fit."
• The Finest, Funnest, Most Freeing Footwear - "Go ahead and wear your rubber sandals - even in New York City."
• Ballet pumps: 30 of the best - in pictures - "Minimal and versatile, these shoes balance style with comfort."
• Wolfs review: George Clooney & Brad Pitt reunite in 'genial' crime caper - "Ocean's Eleven stars Clooney and Pitt reunite as underworld fixers who have more in common than they'd like to admit - the result is a laidback bromantic comedy which lacks spark."
• Watch: George Clooney praises 'selfless' Joe Biden - "George Clooney has praised Joe Biden's decision to quit the presidential race as the most selfless thing a president has done since George Washington."
• The Rise Of Wearable Smart Rings - "The leader in this area is the Oura Ring, which started as a Kickstarter project in 2015. It went through two models before the Ring 3, introduced in 2021, took off, and to date, it has sold 2.5 million rings. The Oura Ring 4 could be released by the end of 2024."
• A Perfumer Who Sees & Feels Scents - "Christine Nagel, the head perfumer at Hermès, has synesthesia, a neurological condition that mixes the senses. Christine Nagel, the head perfumer at Hermès, works from an office on the ninth floor of the luxury brand's headquarters near the Élysée Palace in Paris."
• 21 Things in Grandma's Living Room That Are Worth a LOT of Money - "These days, a grandma’s living room is decorated with more than doilies and porcelain figurines. Chances are, your grandparents’ home design peaked in the 1960s and might include treasures such as a Noguchi coffee table or collectible museum posters."
• ‘The new digital flex’: the airport tray trend stirring outrage & delight - "High-end possessions artfully placed in grey plastic security trays are giving #foodstagram a run for its money."
• Airport security trays carry more germs than toilets, study reveals - "What’s the most germ-filled spot in an airport? The bathrooms? Those crowded waiting areas? The passport checking counter? Surprisingly, none of the above. A new study has revealed those airport security plastic trays are the biggest culprit for spreading germs in airports."
• 6 Best Zipperless Luggage Brands Our Editors Recommend for Travel - "We review popular options from Away, Rimowa, Samsonite, and more. When you're traveling, you want the whole process to feel as smooth as possible - and this all starts with picking out the right luggage. No one wants to narrowly miss their flight because of sticky wheels, broken zippers, or a cracked suitcase exterior, which is why we're here to make a case for the best zipperless luggage."
• Norwegian outdoor tourism campaign shelved over environmental fears - "State-owned company halts initiative after warnings over opening up ‘right to roam’ laws to large numbers of visitors."
• Some Swiss Army Knives Have a Secret Tool Under the Handle - "The classic Swiss Army knife is known around the world for its versatility, with every edition of the multitool packing a variety of handy functions into a pocket-sized form factor."
• The History of Longines: Pioneering Spirit - "Today, Longines is one of the most successful Swiss watch brands and Longines timepieces can be found in many sports. One of the reasons for this is that Longines has a rich company history. After all, the brand has been writing watch history for over 180 years. Today, we’ll explore the evolution of Longines and the successes the luxury watch manufacturer has achieved in that time."

September 1, 2024

• These 100-year-old silhouettes ruled the Venice red carpet - "What year is it again? Some of the looks on the red carpet at the 81st Venice Film Festival could suggest the year was 1924, rather than 2024."
• The 50 Best Movies on Netflix Right Now - "There are so many film experiences to choose from on Netflix, let us help you narrow down your choices."
• The 50 Best TV Shows on Netflix Right Now - "New shows come to the streaming giant all the time - too many to ever watch them all. We’re here to help."
• The Best Movies & Shows on Hulu Right Now - "We’ve handpicked the finest movies and television shows currently streaming on Hulu in the United States. Take a look."
• The 50 Best Movies on Max Right Now - "In addition to new Warner and HBO films, the streamer has a treasure trove of Golden Age classics, indie flicks and foreign films. Start with these."
• The Best Movies on Amazon Prime Video Right Now - "New films, and classics, just keep coming, but you don’t have to drill down to find the finest selections to stream. We’ll do the heavy lifting. You press play."
• The 50 Best TV Shows & Movies to Watch on Disney+ Right Now - "The Disney streaming platform has hundreds of movie and TV titles, drawing from its own deep reservoir of classics and from Star Wars, Marvel, National Geographic and more. These are our favorites."
• Here’s everything new coming to Apple TV+ in September - "The Apple TV+ September lineup kicks off with the return of Slow Horses, then debuts new series and a prestige movie. Here's what's new."
• African nations hit by mpox still waiting for vaccines - despite promises by the west - "Last week’s planned rollout of doses faces further delays as campaigners complain of greed and inequality."
• New Covid Vaccines Are Coming. Here's What to Know - "We asked experts about the right time to get a shot, and how long protection will last."
• The 7 workout exercises personal trainers can't go without - "Fitness trends come and go. So we asked the PTs what moves they include in every workout: 1. The best stretch. 2.Burpee. 3. Dead bug. 4. Push-up. 5. Romanian deadlift. 6. Squat. 7. Hip thrust."
• All the New Watches From Watches & Wonders Shanghai 2024 - "New innovations and designs, with some paying heed to the year ahead."
• My months researching Queen Elizabeth II - she was stranger than most admit - "Yachts, tantrums and horses: the acclaimed biographer Craig Brown reveals what he discovered about the former monarch to write his quirky, honest portrait of her."
• What is Ticketmaster, the $22bn music giant under fire for ‘dynamic pricing’? - "The company has been at the centre of numerous controversies, its latest being technical difficulties and the price of Oasis tickets."
• An F1 racer's guide to Milan - "F1 racer Pierre Gasly loves living in fashion-forward Milan. Here are his top weekend picks, from shopping in Quadrilatero della moda to walking his puppy in Parco Sempione."
• The Household Chores You’re Avoiding Are Key to a Deeper Life - "Scientific studies provide evidence for this phenomenon. Researchers have found that we’re more likely to overcome a relational or work-related impasse not when we are hunched over our desks in rapt concentration or collaborating in a Zoom meeting, but rather on breaks when we do boring activities or when our minds wander. Approximately one-fifth of our most creative ideas emerge during those times."
• The rise of Ganni - the Danish fashion label that appeals to everyone (& their mum) - "The brand, hot with Taylor Swift and anyone from gen X to gen Z, will make its debut at Paris fashion week."
• Hvaldimir, a Celebrated ‘Spy’ Whale, Is Found Dead in Norway - "The beluga whale, who was first spotted in 2019 wearing what looked like a camera harness, was seen floating in Norwegian waters on Saturday."

August 31, 2024

• New Apple Leak Reveals iPhone 16 Pro Problems - "The current thinking is that the iPhone 16 range will be 8 GB across all four models. And for many Apple watchers, that amount of memory will be a problem. The proposed higher memory of 12 GB across the iPhone 17 family will be needed to run a significant volume of artificial intelligence routines on the handset, which means more processing of personal data on the device rather than in the cloud. Yet these handsets won’t be on sale for 12 months."
• iPhone 16, Apple Watch X, iOS 18 & everything coming in Apple’s biggest month - "Get ready for a loaded event—and much more."
• Weight-loss jabs could ‘slow down the clock’ on biological ageing - "Scientists say semaglutide, also known as Ozempic or Wegovy, has ‘far-reaching benefits beyond what we initially imagined’."
• End of an era: The big change coming to European travel in November - "Paper mementoes of our travels, from boarding cards to even passports themselves, are fast moving into obsolescence. The inky, smudgy joy of a fresh passport stamp will be a thing of the past for visitors to the 29 countries of the European Union Schengen Area starting November 10. That’s when the new automated Entry/Exit System (EES) comes into effect."
• The EU's new hand luggage rule starts next week - here's what you need to know - "Tourists travelling to EU countries this year may face issues and delays at airports regarding their hand luggage, experts have warned."
• Telegram: 'The dark web in your pocket' - "'There is no doubt that criminality is happening on other social networks too, but my experiment hints at a broader problem that many in law enforcement have been concerned about for years. Here is a flavour of some of the groups to which I have found myself added.'"
• The burger is a portrait of America - "Here are 11 vaqriations that reflect the country's many facets, and limitless things a great hamburger can be."
• 11 of the best TV shows to watch this September - "From Marvel's witchy new series Agatha All Along to the return of Slow Horses and a new Nicole Kidman domestic thriller on Netflix."
• ‘Maria’ Review: Angelina Jolie Is Commanding as Maria Callas in Pablo Larraín’s Lavish but Overly Fatalistic Drama - "This chronicle of the final week in the life of the opera legend follows ‘Jackie’ and ‘Spencer’ in the Chilean director’s trilogy about famous women caught in the emotional headlights."
• Google Maps just got a welcome redesign - here’s what’s new - "Softer edges and new colors are coming to Maps."
• How soon is too soon to visit after a disaster? - "As floods, storms and wildfires intensify around the world, these are a few key questions to ask when considering travelling to a destination recovering from a natural disaster."
• These 6 Exercises Are Fundamental to How You Move - "Practicing these movements can make everyday tasks - like carrying groceries and walking up stairs - easier. Training these six fundamental movements - hinge, squat, lunge, push, pull and rotation - can help you accomplish daily tasks more easily and without pain as you age."
• A. Lange & SÖhne Introduces the Datograph Handwerkskunst - "The final anniversary edition. For the milestone anniversary of its famed chronograph, A. Lange & Söhne hasn't held back on commemorative editions."
• A Classic Necklace Gets an Update - "The rivière traditionally featured the same gem in a graduated display, but jewelers such as Sophie Bille Brahe have put their own stamps on the style."

August 30, 2024

• Key Takeaways from CNN’s interview with Harris & Walz - "In the interview, Harris explained how her positions on issues including fracking and border security have evolved since she first ran for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2019."
• Tom Hanks warns against deceptive AI ads with his image: ‘Do not be fooled’ - "'There are multiple ads over the internet falsely using my name, likeness, and voice promoting miracle cures and wonder drugs,' Hanks wrote on his Instagram page Thursday. 'These ads have been created without my consent, fraudulently and through AI.'"
• Gary Oldman: I've been overlooked by the honours system - "There's something missing from Gary Oldman's trophy cabinet. One of the most decorated actors of his generation, he won a best actor Oscar, Bafta and Golden Globe for playing Sir Winston Churchill in Darkest Hour, plus two Baftas for Nil by Mouth, which he wrote and directed. However, unlike those acting knights of the realm, such as Sir Anthony Hopkins, Sir Daniel Day Lewis and Sir Kenneth Branagh, he says that he has been completely overlooked by the honours system."
• Norway princess & US shaman's wedding begins after years of 'turmoil' - "Festivities have begun for the wedding of Norwegian Princess Märtha Louise and her American partner, self-styled shaman Durek Verrett."
• A spirit so good people are smuggling it in suitcases - "Strong, sweet and steeped in history, viche could become to Colombia what mezcal is to Mexico. But Afro-Colombians are having to fight to save it from cultural appropriation."
• 10 phrases that instantly make you sound less intelligent, according to psychology - "Have you ever noticed how some people wow the crowd when they talk, while others just don’t? It’s not only about what they say, but how they say it. And guess what? Some phrases might even make you seem less bright than you really are."
• Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis 1960s Style File From the Archives [PHOTOS] - "A lookback at Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis's style in the 1960s from the Archives."
• MacBook Pro vs. MacBook Air: How to decide which Apple laptop is best for you - "Considering buying a new MacBook, but unsure about all the differences between the Pro and the Air? Here's how to determine which one is the best fit for you."
• Top 10 Back-To-Office Essentials To Achieve A Streamlined Work Routine & Peak Productivity - "I’ve discovered that adding limited, quality, and innovative products to my desk setup can help me in achieving my goals! From a quick-access organizer for all your essentials to a letter cutter that doubles up as a paperweight - these nifty accessories are the perfect additions to your workdesk."
• I gave away my Kindle & iPad within hours of testing this tablet - "I've been a Kindle user for over a decade, but the TCL Tab 10 Nxtpaper 5G is my new favorite e-reader for its versatile display and value. Nxtpaper is a paper-like display that helps reduce eye strain and improves readability over traditional screens. This display reduces blue light, doesn't have a conventional backlight, and eliminates flickering, making it easy on the eyes while displaying the different types of content you'd expect from a tablet or smartphone."

August 29, 2024

• Spectacular opening ceremony ignites Paris Paralympics - "A spectacular opening ceremony marked the start of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games as athletes paraded along the iconic Champs-Elysees to Place de la Concorde in glorious conditions."
• Paris Paralympics 2024 opening ceremony: ‘revolution of inclusion’ - in pictures - "Across three and a half hours of spectacle and speeches at the Place de la Concorde, the opening ceremony showcased 500 performers and a parade featuring 128 competing nations."
• This city is developing the world’s tallest timber tower, again - "The US city of Milwaukee is already home to the world’s tallest timber tower. But another, even taller, wooden skyscraper could be added to its skyline, designed by Vancouver-based studio Michael Green Architects (MGA)."
• For three religions, this quiet city is sacred - "It has a 7,000-year-old history, was home to two of Christianity and Islam’s most important figures. Tarsus - in eastern Turkey, around 180 miles from the Syrian border - is a gumbo of history, religion and food."
• Adam Sandler, Hollywood’s ultimate dad dresser, doles out fashion advice - "There’s dadcore, and then there’s Adam Sandler core. And while there is a family resemblance, the two should not be confused."
• Prince Harry’s not updating Spare in paperback. So I’ve done it for him - "Prince Harry has decided not to update Spare for the paperback edition, which is a terrible shame and a missed opportunity. Many things have happened in the 18 months since his autobiography was published - it would be a pity to miss them out."
• 35 Products I Wish Everyone Knew About - "You gotta check these things out." BuzzFeed.
• 33 Products With A Calming Aesthetic You'll Love Having In Your Home - "You're just one moon phase garland and hummingbird night-light away from the peaceful space of your dreams." BuzzFeed.
• The best hard-shell carry-on luggage of 2024, tested by editors - CNN Underscored.
• The cheeseburger that fuelled the Manhattan Project - "If New Mexico could have one state food, it would be the green chile cheeseburger, with each restaurant, diner and roadhouse cafe claiming to have the ultimate version."
• ‘Ten minutes a day will make you significantly fitter’: personal trainers on the best home exercise kit - "From skipping ropes to kettlebells, six leading PTs reveal the best home fitness equipment, for all ages and abilities - and the kit you don’t need."
• Nvidia rides big tech’s AI investment to beat Wall Street’s sky-high expectations - "Chipmaker, third most valuable company in world, records $30.04bn in revenue, showing AI demand continues to rise."
• Lego plans to make half the plastic in bricks from renewable materials by 2026 - "Toymaker hopes to bring down oil-based plastic it uses by paying up to 70% more for certified renewable resin to encourage production."
• Golden-age Hollywood stars (& their pet lions) - in pictures - "From Marilyn Monroe getting her hair done to a bird-balancing Alfred Hitchcock, these images from the Life magazine archive exude glamour and intrigue."
• Heinz launches canned carbonara for Gen Z - our expert gives his view - "The company has billed its new product as 'no cooking skills required', and 'fail-safe', allowing home cooks to get a perfect carbonara every time. It cited a survey which found 32 per cent of Gen Z wanted their food to be both fast and convenient, suggesting it would be a hit with younger consumers."
• If Liza Minnelli’s Jewelry Could Talk - "Studio 54. Versailles. The Oscars. Some of the pieces worn by Ms. Minnelli have seen a lot."
• Rear Window At 70: Fathom Events Celebrates The Alfred Hitchcock Masterpiece - "Rear Window, the Alfred Hitchcock classic is celebrating 70 years with a two-night screening by Fathom Events."

August 28, 2024

• All the parts of a watch, explained - "Whether you’re fresh to watches and need a glossary explaining all the common elements of what makes up a watch, or you’re a dyed-in-the-wool watch nerd who’s secretly always been confused by some terms, we’ve put together this helpful guide."
• Heat-related deaths have increased by 117% in the US since 1999 - report - "More than 21,500 US deaths over last two decades were connected to heat, top medical journal finds."
• What the Telegram founder’s arrest means for the regulation of social media firms - "Pavel Durov’s detention by French authorities is a major break from the norm - but his low-moderation, non-encrypted app is an anomaly."
• The Hidden Grammatical Reason Why 'Weird' Works - "In Old English the word meant, believe it or not, 'what the future holds,' as in what we now refer to as fate. In the 20th century, the word lost its hint of the macabre as its meaning became something quieter. 'Weird' now means peculiar - perhaps passingly so, but against what one would expect."
• Silent Sherlock Holmes film to be screened for first time since 1922 release - "The Golden Pince-Nez features Eille Norwood as the detective and has been restored by the BFI national archive."
• Map Shows Most Religious Countries in the World - "The concept of religion has played a significant role in shaping the development of many societies. In some nations, religion continues a central part of everyday life, whilst in others very much less so."
• Gossiping Is Fun. It's Natural & These People Won't Do It - "In its most recent survey on the topic, the polling giant YouGov found that half of Americans admit to having “spread a piece of gossip."
• 5 Ways to Feel More Connected, According to Dr. Ruth - "In ‘The Joy of Connections,’ a book set to publish shortly after her death at 96, America’s best-known sex therapist offered practical strategies for anyone feeling lonely: 1. Be a turtle. 2. Lose count. 3. Broaden your 'friendcabulary.' 4. Make your town smaller. 5. If you're lonely, say it out loud."
• I've tested dozens of power banks, but I haven't seen one quite like this - "The Cuktech P-series power bank may look like something out of a sci-fi movie, but its efficiency, premium build, and durability are very real. And right now, it's on sale on Amazon for $89."
• Are LED beauty masks worth the hype? Scientists say no - "One study found that the light emitted by the devices favoured by celebrities had little effect on deeper layers of the skin where ‘real change happens’."
• This Tiny, TSA-Friendly Multi-Tool Boasts an Unexpected Feature - "Among the Screwpop Toolkey II’s 17 functions is a handy one we’ve never seen in this type of EDC item: a strong rare-earth magnet near the tip. Among its most useful other functions are as a bottle and can opener, a bike spoke key, a hex bit driver and a rope and wire cutter (thanks to a serrated edge). Up to 17 functions."
• 5 Tips For Creating The Best Coffee Cocktails - "The ubiquitous espresso martini has served as a gateway libation into the world of coffee cocktails. Its velvety balance of sweet coffee liqueur and bitter caffeine fuse for a sip so delightful that its renaissance is equivocal to a movement. Still, the espresso martini can’t reign forever, and there’s other coffee cocktails deserving of your time. Here are five tips for elevating your coffee cocktail game: 1. Use a quality infused coffee spirit. 2. Dry shake for a creamy foam. 3. Use Espresso. 4. Be aware of curdling. 5. Don't underestimate the garnish."

August 27, 2024

• iPhone 16 Release: Apple Confirms Special Event, On A Surprise New Date - It’s Monday, September 9 at 10 a.m. Pacific, with an in-person press event at the Steve Jobs Theater in Apple’s Cupertino HQ.
• A Russian Elon Musk with 100 biological children: Meet Pavel Durov - "Pavel Durov, the elusive founder of Telegram, is a lot of things to a lot of people. Programming prodigy. Billionaire entrepreneur. Kremlin stooge. Free-speech fighter. Biological father to at least 100 kids."
• Are phone-addicted Gen Zers losing the ability to type? - "In 2000, 44% of American high school students had taken a keyboard skills course, but by 2019 this had fallen to 2.5%. Take the test to see how fast you are."
• The cocaine kingpin’s wildest legacy: what can be done with Pablo Escobar’s marauding hippos? - "The Colombian drug lord’s exotic menagerie fell apart after his death, and now wild hippos are breeding out of control."
• Mary Poppins at 60: a dazzling Disney masterpiece that hasn’t lost its shine - "Julie Andrews makes for a pitch-perfect lead in a studio-saving hit that offers a spoonful of sugar with a side of salt."
• Parisians Are Choosing Bikes Over Cars. Will New Yorkers Do That, Too? - "The transformation of cycling access in Paris over the past few years may have lessons for New York and its car-clogged streets. Copenhagen still has the 'gold standard' of bike infrastructure design, he said, and it does a better job of considering bikes, pedestrians and cars at intersections. 'Paris lacks that.'"
• Be kind, rewind: is backwards walking any better than walking forwards? - "It places less strain on the knees and can help with coordination - as long as you do it with structure and purpose, experts say. Backwards walking is so hot right now, literally and figuratively. The practice has apparently been common in China for some time."
• 12 bodyweight exercises that build muscle without equipment - "Bodyweight exercises are great for building functional strength, especially when you’re on the go and don’t have access to a gym. They’re also great for building body awareness and stability. While free weights are more effective for actually growing and building muscle, bodyweight exercises still deserve a place in your exercise routine."
• Is It Better to Be Over- or Underdressed? - "A reader seeks guidance on striking the right balance between casual and formal attire at events without a defined dress code."
• What You May Not Know About the Fish You Eat - "Too Much of Our Seafood Has a Dark Secret. More than 2,000 species of seafood from all over the world for sale in the United States."
• 2,000 species of seafood from all over the world for sale in the United States - "The Seafood List (SFL) is FDA's Guidance to Acceptable Market Names for Seafood sold in Interstate Commerce."
• Ruby Wax: 'The night OJ Simpson pretended to stab me with a banana' - "The presenter spent 17 manic hours with the disgraced NFL star. In a succession of disturbing moments his Psycho re-enactment may not even make the top three."
• All 13 Stanley Kubrick Movies, Ranked Worst To Best - "Kubrick directed only 13 feature films from 1952 to 1999, showcasing his meticulous dedication to each project. Kubrick initially faced challenges, but demonstrated extraordinary talent in filmmaking, eventually creating iconic cinema. Key films like '2001: A Space Odyssey' and 'The Shining' cemented Kubrick's legacy as a visionary director ahead of his time."
• Every iconic role Cary Grant turned down - "Grant’s filmography was hardly lacking in classics, but like many in-demand actors of his era, he found himself turning down more than a few legendary parts to focus his energies on the parts that spoke to him on a deeper level. Every single one of them is memorable in its own way, and more than a couple of them could have changed the course of cinema history if Grant had signed on."

August 26, 2024

• How it all went wrong for tourism - "It feels like this was the year that tourism turned nasty – and local communities started pushing back. Venice has started charging daytrippers an entry fee, while one busy Swiss town has announced it wants to follow suit. Locals have staged protests in Mallorca and Barcelona."
• ‘It’s about money’: doubt over America’s Cup benefits in tourist hotspot Barcelona - "Authorities say event will bring in €1bn but local people fear little will remain in city on frontline of overtourism."
• Portofino has become a living nightmare - "Nestled in the Italian Riviera, the picturesque Portofino has long been a playground for the world’s rich and famous. Portofino, then, is a perfect example in microcosm of the carcinogenic effect of tourism on the soul and spirit of a place."
• Tourist dies after ice collapse in Icelandic glacier - "Ice collapsed as the group of 25 people were visiting an ice cave along with a guide on Sunday."
• Coating clothes with this simple material could cool your body by up to 8 degrees - "Researchers at the University of Massachusetts Amherst have developed a flexible, chalk-based coating which can be added to fabrics. During tests in scorching summer heat, they found it reduced the temperature underneath clothes by up to 8 degrees Fahrenheit compared to the air, and by up to 15 degrees compared to untreated fabrics."
• Why Didn't Jennifer Lopez & Ben Affleck Sign a Prenup? - "We called a divorce attorney for some answers."
• Matthew Perry's death reveals Hollywood's ketamine 'wild west' - "Climbing into his backyard jacuzzi that overlooked the Santa Monica Mountains, Matthew Perry uttered the seven words that would ultimately lead to his death: 'Shoot me up with a big one.'"
• How do restaurants actually get a Michelin star? - "It's one of the highest culinary honours to be bestowed on a restaurant, but for decades, the process around how they're awarded has been shrouded in secrecy."
• Never take health tips from world’s oldest people, say scientists - "Scientists still trying to work out why some people live beyond 100, but agree it is best to avoid taking advice from centenarians themselves."
• Medication Mistakes Pharmacists Want You to Stop Making - "Common habits like storing pills in your medicine cabinet can reduce their effectiveness, experts say."
• ‘Whatever Happens in the Sauna Stays in the Sauna’: Diplomacy, Conducted in the Nude - "The Finnish Embassy offers one of the hottest invitations in Washington: a chance to discuss serious topics in a sauna."
• Fjords & seaweed safaris: a new cycle trail along Denmark’s east coast - "A cycling holiday on the Jutland peninsula’s ‘Fjordmino’ is a gentle procession of quiet roads, ferry rides, cute B&Bs and islands."
• Sockless in Sardinia? Oh Tony, you're not in Miami Vice - "The former PM’s holiday attire has finally broken this loyalist’s support. If God had wanted us to go without socks He would've given us hairy Hobbit feet."

August 25, 2024

• Mpox ISN'T the new Covid, WHO announce in urgent update on spread of deadly virus - "Europe is registering 100 new mpox cases every month, a World Health Organization (WHO) chief warned today."
• Elon Musk was just forced to reveal who really owns X. Here's the list - "Here's the list: Bill Ackman, Sean 'Diddy' Combs, Elon Musk and Saudi Prince Alwaleed bin Talal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud are connecting with the ownership of X, formerly Twitter."
• The world’s best city for nightlife, according to Time Out - "Rio de Janeiro: The Brazilian seaside city is home to annual over-the-top Carnival celebrations and, according to Time Out, the best place in the world for nightlife right now."
• How to spend a weekend in Amsterdam - "Former Formula 1 and IndyCar driver Robert Doornbos has called Amsterdam home since 2018. This is the Dutch speedster's guide to enjoying the Dutch capital, during F1 and beyond."
• Ranked: The 10 Fastest Trains in the World - "In many countries, high-speed rail networks offer a more convenient and greener alternative to flying. In terms of carbon footprint per kilometer of travel, taking the train is often one of the greenest options available. However, in many cases, low-cost plane fares are still cheaper than train tickets, especially in Europe."
• A woman got tired of her mail getting stolen. She sent herself an Apple AirTag to help catch the thieves - "Authorities in Los Alamos arrested two suspects on Monday with the help of an Apple AirTag locator device the woman had mailed to herself, the sheriff’s office said in a news release."
• 11 Canned Foods That Are Just As Good As Fresh, According To Chefs - "Canned foods often get a bad rap, with many believing they're unhealthy or inferior to fresh options. However, this is more myth than fact, and both chefs and science can back this up."
• 5 things to do in the morning for a long & healthy life - "Mornings set the tone for the rest of the day, and the habits we cultivate during these early hours can significantly impact our long-term health and longevity: 1. Start the day with meditation. 2. Drink warm water with lemon. 3. Being physically active is important. 4. Eat a nutrient-dense breakfast. 5. How does gratitude help us?"
• I took 250 photos with Google Pixel 9 Pro XL vs. iPhone 15 Pro Max - here's the winner - "The new Pixel 9 Pro takes on the king of iPhones in this epic camera battle."
• Want Decades of Passive Income? Buy This ETF & Hold it forever - "Here are three reasons to buy and hold the Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD 1.43%). 1. It's an all-in-one blue chip stock portfolio. 2. A generous and growing dividend. 3. Future total return potential."

August 24, 2024

• Porticello, the quiet fishing village where yacht tragedy has awakened grief - "The small Sicilian port town is all too familiar with loss at sea. Now it is united again in mourning as the final bodies from the Bayesian are carried through its harbour."
• Human brains contain surprising levels of plastic, study says - "Tiny shards of plastic are increasingly infiltrating our brains, study says."
• TikTok blamed for hit to Iceland cucumber supply - "It comes after social media influencers in the small Nordic country began sharing a salad recipe of grated cucumbers, sesame oil, garlic, rice vinegar and chilli oil."
• Burning Man: Why the US festival could be in trouble - "As news of rising prices, intolerable weather and poor ticket sales have hit the Nevada desert event in recent years, some speculate its days could be numbered."
• Elizabeth Rush on her epic journey to Earth's 'doomsday glacier' - "In 2019, 57 scientists and crew embarked on a 54-day journey to the farthest reaches of Antarctica. Their mission: Thwaites Glacier, a rapidly crumbling block of ice the size of Britain melting so fast it's known as the world's 'doomsday glacier'."
• The Countries With The Cleanest Air In The World, Ranked In new report - "In fact, Estonia, Denmark, United Kingdom, Finland, Sweden, Luxembourg, Austria, Norway and Switzerland have held spots on the list of the world's cleanest countries since 2020."
• Alain Delon to be buried in grounds of his estate in ‘strictest privacy’ - "Carefully selected group of 40 mourners reportedly told to seal away phones at ceremony for French actor."
• Why We Love a Movie Star in a White T-Shirt - "It's the perfect garment for the heroic figure who bears our dreams and aspirations. Its simplicity and adaptability make it a powerful tool, communicating understated sexiness and absolute coolness, a combination that's birthed many a cinematic legend."
• Gillian Anderson on pleasure, powerful women & collecting secret fantasies: ‘We’re not as open about sex as we imagine’ - "When the actor asked women to share their erotic secrets for a new book, she found herself rethinking her own relationship with desire - and deciding to have more fun."
• David Copperfield Vanished. The Problem of His Penthouse Remains - "Residents of the Galleria, a Midtown Manhattan apartment building, sued Mr. Copperfield, saying he left his once-ornate condominium in disrepair."
• Downing Street’s plan for when Larry the Cat runs out of 9 lives - "He’s seen off a few mice - and five prime ministers. At the ripe old age of 17, arrangements have been made (when the time comes) to break the news to a grateful nation. Senior officials working in Downing Street over the past year have drawn up a plan for announcing the death of Larry the Cat."
• Scientists Made a List of Lost Birds & Now They Want Us to Find Them - "Some 144 bird species had not been seen in at least a decade, but a project by conservation organizations proposes they all may still be hidden somewhere in the wild."
• Yves Saint Laurent: From Costume Balls to the Stage (1956) - "Baron Alexis de Redé, a vital fixture in high society at the time, was looking for an artist to design the set and costumes for the Bal des Têtes he was holding at the Hôtel Lambert on the Île Saint-Louis in 1956. Lilia Ralli, an influential figure in the fashion world, recommended Christian Dior’s new assistant Yves Saint Laurent. In the process, Saint Laurent met the choreographer Roland Petit and the dancer Zizi Jeanmaire, who became his friends and for whom he would go on to design many costumes. Saint Laurent let his imagination run wild, creating extravagant outfits for the Bal des Têtes in 1956 and later for the Bal oriental in 1969 and the Bal Proust in 1971."
• iOS 18 Notes App: All the New Features - "Math Notes - Audio Recording and Transcription - Collapsible Sections - Highlight Colors - Attach Files - Notes Settings - Lock Screen Notes - Writing Tools (Apple Intelligence) - Image Wand (Apple Intelligence)."
• One of the best features of the Apple TV 4K is one you might not know about - "The feature in question is known colloquially as the ‘what did they say?’ feature, and it’s really just a neat Siri-related trick."

August 23, 2024

• Democratic national convention: the best images from the final day - in pictures - "Kamala Harris accepted the Democratic presidential nomination on the final day of the conference in Chicago, laying out the stakes of the election and delivering a forceful rebuke of her Republican opponent Donald Trump."
• Fact-checking six of Kamala Harris's campaign claims - "BBC Verify examined claims made by Harris, about her record and Trump's on the economy, abortion and immigration."
• iPhone 16 Pro: These new features are coming next month - "Apple is set to unveil its iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max in the coming weeks at its September event. Here are the new features coming soon."
• Google Releases Powerful AI Image Generator You Can Use for Free - "Google has released an updated version of its AI image generator to everyone in the U.S. via the company’s AI Test Kitchen service."
• Typing these four characters could crash your iPhone - "A newly discovered bug causes iPhones and iPads to briefly crash. All you need to trigger the bug are just four characters."
• Huge 2,492-carat diamond, believed to be world’s second-largest, unearthed in Botswana - "The huge stone is thought to be the biggest found since the 3,106-carat Cullinan Diamond was discovered in South Africa in 1905. Canadian mining company Lucara Diamond Corp. announced Thursday that the 'exceptional' gem was found intact in its Karowe mine."
• Kanye West tour demands REVEALED - "Rapper insists on having 24 rooms in a five-star hotel just for his own personal use, his crew must wear all black and one product is BANNED backstage."
• Tourists scaling the Great Wall of China can now get takeout delivered by drone - "Chinese food delivery giant Meituan says its new drone service, announced last week, will bring food, drinks and other goods such as medical supplies to customers at a far-flung section of the ancient monument on the outskirts of Beijing."
• The Ancient Oracle of Delphi, Greece - "The Oracle of Delphi, the Pythia, who was also referred to as the sibyl, was a priestess who would prophesy from the tripod in the sunken adyton of the Temple of Apollo. The god himself was believed to speak through this oracle."
• Sphen, Penguin Whose Gay Love Story Earned Global Fame, Dies - "For six years, Sphen and Magic were devoted partners, adoptive parents and queer icons. After Sphen died this month at age 11, Magic began singing."
• Off the Grid, Extremely Online - "In corners of the internet - and in wooded, undeveloped parts of the country - young men are documenting their efforts to to live off the land."
• The sleeper train that’s a wild ride to another world - "It’s a Tuesday night on the Caledonian Sleeper, which runs six days a week from London to Scotland, and the Club Car is in full swing. Having feasted on fare such as Scottish haggis, neeps and tatties, passengers are sampling malt whiskies and Edinburgh gins as they make new friends across the swivel seats and cozy booths, smartly upholstered in burnt orange and teal blue."
• Eight of the world's most extraordinary tiny hotel rooms - "From Colombia's upcycled sewer pipes to spheres suspended in the sky in Canada, capsule hotels have been reinvented for a new generation of travellers."
• North Korea is reopening to tourists after almost five years, but will anyone go? - "After the isolated country closed its borders to keep out Covid-19, tour companies are celebrating the resumption of travel. Experts have warned that the long-awaited opening up could fall victim to political tensions and the country’s brutal winters."
• This superyacht hot spot for the uber-wealthy is heating up & becoming more dangerous - "The storm that sank the 'Bayesian,' a luxury yacht anchored off the Sicily coast, was sudden, violent and deadly - and scientists say it may be a warning of what’s to come as global warming fuels more extreme weather in the Mediterranean."
• Chess: Carlsen & Niemann impress as Paris grudge rematch approaches - "The pair will meet early next month for the first time across the board since the 2022 Sinquefield Cup, where their game sparked cheating allegations and a $100 million lawsuit."
• Incognito mode: how dressing under the radar became the ultimate humblebrag - "When it comes to getting dressed, A-listers like Kylie Jenner and Naomi Campbell are masters of disguise - but in the digital age, is this now a look for everyone?"
• Top 8 Car Brands Driven By the Wealthy - "The richest households are significant savers, keeping the majority of their gross income and investing money rather than spending it on status symbols that depreciate in value. When it comes to buying vehicles, they spend money in the right way. They don’t 'drive rich.' The wealthy tend to snap up higher trim models from 'regular' brands and less expensive models by luxury brands."
• What is a GMT watch? It’s a must-have for all watch collections - "What you need to know about GMT watches. For watch enthusiasts, there’s no watch complication more renowned in recent times than the GMT. The GMT watch from Rolex has become one of the most well-known watches in recent times, thanks to its sleek and simple design. For those looking for a luxury watch that they can use in everyday situations, there’s no better option than a GMT watch."
• The History of The Rolex Batman GMT-Master II - "The 'BLNR' portion of the 'Batman' reference number is short for 'Bleu Noir,' which is French for 'Blue Black.' Not only was the original Batman the first bi-color ceramic bezel, but it was also the only one available on a stainless steel GMT-Master II watch for several years."
• Rolex Coke vs. Pepsi Watches: Exploring A Timeless Dilemma - " In this article, we embark on a horological journey that pits two iconic timepieces against each other: the Rolex Coke and Pepsi. These two names might conjure up images of your favorite carbonated beverages, but in the world of luxury watches, they represent something far more enduring. The Rolex GMT-Master II in its Rolex Coke collection and Rolex Pepsi watch variations has captured the hearts of watch enthusiasts, collectors, and connoisseurs for decades."

August 22, 2024

• Thailand Confirms Asia's First Case of New Mpox Virus Strain - "Thailand has detected the new mutated strain of mpox virus, as the pathogen spreads to more geographies after the World Health Organization declared the outbreak in Africa a new global health emergency. The patient who tested positive for clade Ib was a European male who arrived in Bangkok last week from Africa, according to the Department of Disease Control of Thailand's health ministry."
• The new mpox variant may appear to be less deadly but it is spreading fast. Complacency would be a grave error - "If the world has learned anything from the Covid pandemic, it is that new viruses must be stopped in their tracks."
• Heat deaths in Europe may triple by end of the century, study finds - "Countries in south most at risk, with rise likely to outstrip fall in cold-related deaths if global heating hits 3C or 4C."
• Ranked: The Top 10 Countries by Gold Reserves in 2024 - "The country with the most gold is the United States, holding 8,133 tonnes valued at $628 billion. Half of the country’s reserves are stored at the United States Bullion Depository, commonly known as Fort Knox, a United States Army installation in Kentucky. Germany ranks second with 3,351 tonnes, followed by Italy with 2,452 tonnes."
• Ranked: The Countries That Added the Most Gold Reserves (2013-2023) - "Russia's reserves jumped from 1,035 tonnes in 2013 to 2,333 in 2023. China's reserves rose from 1,054 tonnes to 2,235 in 2023. In third place in our ranking of central bank gold additions, Türkiye increased its reserves from 116 tonnes in 2013 to 540 tonnes in 2023."
• Ranked: The Countries With the Highest Wealth Inequality - "This graphic visualizes the 10 countries with the most wealth inequality as measured by the Gini index, using figures from the UBS Global Wealth Report 2024."
• 5 Cities with the Highest Homeless Population in the World - "Homelessness is a significant humanitarian concern across the globe. Although the exact number of homeless people around the globe is tricky to estimate, the World Economic Forum estimates that around 150 million people were homeless in 2021, which amounts to around 2% of the world’s population."
• A Waterspout Was Seen When a Luxury Yacht Sank. What Is It? - "Witnesses reported seeing the tornado-like phenomenon hit the Bayesian, a sailing yacht that sank off the coast of Sicily on Monday."
• Starbucks new boss under fire for 1,000-mile commute by corporate jet - "The newly announced boss of Starbucks, Brian Niccol, has come under fire after it was revealed he will commute almost 1,000 miles (1,600km) from his family home in Newport Beach, California, to the firm's headquarters in Seattle on a corporate jet."
• These are the 10 best luxury train rides in the world - "Tripadvisor reviews, Instagram hashtags and global search volumes have been analysed to produce this list."
• The pretty little town frozen in time that's one of Europe's most beautiful - "Named a UNESCO World Heritage site, Hallstatt is rarely visited by tourists but is a great place to go for a day trip."
• 4 Questions to Ask Before Reuniting With an Ex-Partner - "As Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck show, rekindling an old romance is risky. We asked couples counselors what you should ask before diving back in. 1. Do we both understand why we broke up? 2. Am I just lonely? 3. What has changed this time around? 4. How will we know if this is working?"
• Thin eyebrows are back, but should they be? - " Good news for anyone who permanently decimated their eyebrows in the 1990s with a pair of tweezers and bad lighting: the barely-there brow is making a comeback."
• How the lobster became an unlikely status symbol & a ‘cultural icon’ - "Despite its shiny red exoskeleton and reputation as a bug of the sea, the lobster - though far from the world’s strangest delicacy - has long reigned as an unlikely luxury staple. As well as a high-ticket menu item, the crustacean is also a longstanding symbol of opulence in art and fashion, reaching cultural status beyond other culinary indulgences like caviar or pricey cuts of steak."
• Pixel 9 Pro XL review: Google’s AI-packed superphone to rival the best - "Top-class camera, huge screen, long battery life, Add Me photo trick and advanced Gemini Live are impressive."
• How to make vegetarian scotch eggs - recipe - "A convincing and lip-smacking vegetarian alternative to the UK’s favourite portable snack."

August 21, 2024

• Day one of the Democratic national convention in Chicago - in pictures - "The 2024 Democratic national convention kicks off with speeches by Hillary Clinton, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and a brief one by Kamala Harris."
• A gold bar is now worth $1 million - "The price of spot gold reached more than $2,500 per troy ounce Friday, hitting a record high. The average gold bar weighs 400 troy ounces - which, when you do the math, hits a million dollars."
• Scientists find humans age dramatically in two bursts - at 44, then 60 - "US findings suggesting ageing is not a slow and steady process could explain spikes in health issues at certain ages."
• There is a link between the meat you eat & a chronic disease, according to new research - "Worried about your type 2 diabetes risk? You might want to look at the kinds of meat you are eating, according to a new study."
• Are you as rude as Trump? (according to the Queen) - "The former president peered over Elizabeth’s shoulder while talking. Here’s how to best his bad manners. Interestingly, looking over someone’s shoulder - whether at the bingo, the school prom or the Duke of Westminster’s wedding - is still in the top ten big rude behaviours."
• Australian slang terms every visitor should know - "Australians have long prided themselves on putting their own twist on the English language. Do you know your 'yeah, nah' from your 'nah, yeah'? Or your 'woop woop' from your 'wig out'?"
• The art of small talk: 9 phrases great conversationalists always use - "Mastering the art of small talk isn’t simply about filling silence. It’s about making connections, building rapport, and encouraging others to open up. The trick isn’t in talking more, but rather, saying the right things. The best conversationalists know how to use specific phrases to steer the conversation and engage others."
• Alain Delon's family deny his request to euthanise dog - "The family of Alain Delon have overruled the late French actor's request for his pet dog Loubo, a 10-year-old Belgian malinois, to be put down and buried with him."
• A rare look at one of Earth's most remote places - "Frozen in for nine months every year and located 800km from the next town, Ittoqqortoormiit, Greenland, offers a fascinating glimpse at life at the edge of the world."
• 8 famous architects in the modern & contemporary era - "With big ideas and distinct philosophies, some architects have crafted spaces defining eras, cultures, and the essence of human experience. They have eternally etched their names in history, so this exploration will highlight 8 famous architects whose legacy reflects their profound contributions to architecture."
• iPhone 17 Air won’t be the best iPhone, but it will be the future - "Apple’s iPhone 17 lineup will be weird. We’re just weeks away from the iPhone 16 launch, but it’s 2025’s models at the center of lots of rumors. Specifically, the ultra-slim ‘Air’ model stands to shake up the iPhone 17 lineup. Here’s why next year’s innovative iPhone Air won’t be the best model, but it will be the future."
• The most iconic watches for men of all time - "These are the watches that changed the world."
• The undisputed GOAT of perfumers just remixed Dior's most famous scent - "Sauvage has sold millions of bottles around the world. Under the grandmaster of fragrance Francis Kurkdjian, it's about to sell a lot more."
• How to Make a Chet Baker, a Summery Twist on the Old Fashioned - "It's the rare spirit-forward cocktail you'll enjoy in August: 1. 2 oz. aged rum. 2. 0.25 oz. sweet vermouth. 3. 1 barspoon (about 0.125 oz, or a shade less than a teaspoon) honey syrup. 4. 2 dashes Angostura Bitters."
• Top Gucci, Balenciaga & Louis Vuitton sneakers which are trending now - "Luxury sneakers are trending due to their unique blend of high fashion and everyday comfort, making them versatile for various occasions. These sneakers often feature premium materials, innovative designs, and the prestige of designer labels, appealing to fashion-conscious consumers who seek both style and quality."
• Disgraced designer John Galliano back in fashion after award nomination - "The creative director at Maison Margiela, who shunned the spotlight after a public fall from grace in 2011, will contest the top gong at the British Fashion Awards."

August 20, 2024

• Supermoon lights up the sky around the world - "The first of four full supermoons this year has lit up the night skies around the world. In some places, the supermoon - also a blue moon - turned red due to smoke from wildfires in North America. Smoke particles mean that light passing through the atmosphere is scattered in such a way that the orange and red colours of the spectrum are more visible than usual. Blue moons are not that common - it's thought this is where the phrase 'once in a blue moon' comes from. The full moons of September, October - the closest moon this year - and November will also be supermoons."
• Rare full blue supermoon lights up the sky - in pictures - "Stargazers around the world enjoyed a visual treat of the supermoon - which appears as red or yellow at dusk."
• The world’s most welcoming hotel for 2024 - "Royal Mansour Marrakech, situated within the ancient walls of old Marrakech, is being singled out for its 'outstanding' service. It was designed by the King of Morocco, and this luxury Marrakech resort has been pulling out all the stops to make guests feel like royalty since its launch back in 2010."
• ‘World’s most famous’ helipad on Burj al Arab turns 25 - "Dubai in 1993 was a world away from the global capital of today. That year, British architecture firm Atkins Global was approached by the Dubai ruler’s office with a brief to design a building that would 'create an identifiable link for people around the world with the UAE.' In other words: put the Emirates on the map."
• British tycoon among the missing after deadly tornado sinks luxury yacht - "Why did the yacht Bayesian sink? How the tragedy unfolded. Mike Lynch, the 59-year-old multimillionaire entrepreneur, his teenage daughter and four others are missing and presumed dead after a freak storm. A waterspout, a rare form of tornado that forms over water, toppled the aluminium mast, one of the world's tallest at 248ft. It caused the boat to keel over and take on water before sinking rapidly."
• World’s most expensive painting to form centrepiece of ‘Saudi Louvre’ - "Mohammed bin Salman intends to build a gallery in Riyadh to display Salvator Mundi, attributed to Leonardo da Vinci and the most costly artwork ever sold at auction."
• Warren Buffett Says True Success in Life Comes Down to Just 12 Key Decisions - "'Develop your eccentricities when young.' Here's your checklist: 12 life decisions that lead to success, using Buffett's example."
• 8 of the richest kings in history - "Throughout history, numerous kings have amassed immense wealth, often through conquest, trade, and strategic marriages. These monarchs wielded significant power and influence, leaving a lasting impact on their nations and the world. Here are eight of the richest kings in history, whose fortunes and legacies continue to fascinate us."
• 7 of the Biggest Palaces Ever Built - "Throughout human history, leaders have built huge palaces to exude power and wealth."
• Increase your carbs - why we should all eat more than we think - "By cutting out carbohydrates you risk damage to your arteries and organs, say experts. The government recommends that about half our energy should come from healthy carbs but, in theory, the more fat and fewer carbs you consume, the better the body becomes at burning up its reserves."
• Sorry, red wine drinkers: alcohol is only ever bad for your health - "We needn’t be puritanical about having a drink, but we can no longer deny that it harms us, even in small quantities."
• Why You Should Be Snapping Up Neo-Vintage Watches & How to Start Collecting Them - "Aged between 20 and 40 years, neo-vintage watches present a most challenging and rewarding collecting niche."
• The 7 Best Watch Boutiques in Copenhagen, Denmark - "If you love your watches - from Rolex to Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, Omega, and wonderful vintage, neo-vintage, and pre-owned pieces - Copenhagen is like a small dog with a big dog mentality. Most luxury watch brands can be found within a few short blocks in the Danish capital."
• Why you should stop using your solar-powered power bank - "Using such a device means placing a power bank, a box filled with lithium-ion batteries, in direct sunlight. And that's a big problem. I've found that a power bank left in the sun on a modestly hot day can hit temperatures as high as 80°C/176°F, which is incredibly hot for lithium batteries. I've spent the summer testing solar-powered power banks. It turns out the devices are universally rubbish and potentially unsafe. Here's what to use instead."
• How to Use Nearly Any Watch Face on an Apple Watch, Not Just the Built-In Ones - "Every Apple Watch release includes new watch faces, and we expect more to come when the upcoming watchOS 11 arrives this fall. But after almost 10 years of Apple's smart timepiece, there's still a glaring limitation - we can't add any face we want. Well, officially that is. It is possible to install other watch faces, and you don't even need to hack or modify your Apple Watch."

August 19, 2024

• How to glimpse August’s rare super blue moon - "August continues to be an exciting month for sky-gazers. Closely following the peak of the Perseid meteor shower last week, the first of the year’s four consecutive supermoons is set to rise on August 19. The rare cosmic combination of a supermoon and blue moon peaks at 2:26 p.m. ET Monday."
• What to expect from the 2024 Democratic National Convention - "With just three months to go before the 2024 election, thousands are set to gather in Chicago this week for the Democratic National Convention. It’s a tradition dating back to the 1830s, when a group of Democratic delegates supporting President Andrew Jackson gathered in Baltimore to nominate him for a second term."
• Wealth tax on super-rich could raise $2tn globally, campaigners say - "The Tax Justice Network said trillions could be raised with a ‘featherlight’ tax on the 0.5% of richest households, copying a current Spanish tax."
• More people leaving money for pets in their will - "Britons are following in the footsteps of Oprah Winfrey and the late Karl Lagerfeld and making plans to provide for their pets when they die."
• Every Nespresso Machine, Ranked Worst To Best - "Nespresso's Vertuo Lattissima model is more affordable than the Vertuo Creatista - but it's not as fancy. Looks aren't everything, though."
• 6 Health Myths About Oils - "The focus on oils isn’t exactly new; they’ve been praised and debated for eons. The difference today is that scientific research can help separate fact from fiction. Here are the biggest oil myths going around the internet, according to scientists."
• Airline with the least legroom is named & it's not easyJet or Ryanair - "Aer Lingus, Lufthansa, and KLM soared above the rest, offering a generous seat pitch of 31-32 inches, 29-33 inches, and 30-32 inches respectively. On the flip side, Wizz Air and TUI trailed behind, both providing a rather snug seat pitch of just 28 inches. When it comes to seat width - the actual gap between the two arm rests that border your seat - most airlines' are of a similar size, approximately 17 inches."
• The Amazon Kindle is in a state of decline - "The Kindle is having lots of issues. Excessive battery drain, disappearing Kindle Unlimited Books, slow and sluggish performance."
• Ghosting is usually a terrible thing to do. Here’s when it’s OK - "If you’re actively considering ghosting someone, ask yourself if it’s necessary or if you just want to avoid an awkward situation. Is ghosting going to solve the problem in a way that makes sense for you? Do you feel good about it?"
• These remarkable horse breeds are like no other on Earth - "In the middle of the North Atlantic Ocean, about 100 miles from the Canadian province of Nova Scotia, there’s a small sliver of land that is populated entirely by wild horses. These horses - about 450 of them - are the only full-time residents of Sable Island."
• 62 Years Later, This John Wayne War Movie Still Has One Of Hollywood's Most Impressive Casts Ever - "The Longest Day is a 1962 war film that chronicles the D-Day invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944, from both the Allied and German perspectives."
• Alain Delon: Tragic finale as film great's family is torn apart - "His three children had been fighting over the traces of memory and paternal love."
• Alain Delon: how family feud brought Shakespearean tragedy to final years - "Tensions between his children had erupted behind the gates of the French actor’s home in the village of Douchy."

August 18, 2024

• Failure to deal with mpox outbreak ‘is risk not just to Africa but whole world’ - "Health leaders warn that global response to virus is test case for equity and preparation for future pandemics."
• Alain Delon, French movie legend, dies at 88 - "The celebrated actor and star of 'Plein Soleil,' 1960, titled 'Purple Noon' in the United States, Luchino Visconti 'Rocco and his Brothers,' 1960, and 'The Leopard,' 1963 and Jean-Pierre Melville 'Le Samouraï,' 1967 has died, his children have said."
• Alain Delon: a life in pictures - "French actor Alain Delon has died aged 88. Best known for his cinema work in the 1960s, he starred in a string of works by auteur directors before turning producer. Here we look back at his life and career."
• Alain Delon’s children at war over €245m fortune & ‘lover’ - "The 1960s cinema heart-throb’s family squabble over his estate and turn their ire on the Japanese woman who has lived with him for 18 years."
• Black Caviar - unbeaten in 25 races - dies aged 17 - "The unbeaten Black Caviar - nicknamed the 'Wonder from Down Under' - has died at the age of 17. The retired Australian mare won a record 25 consecutive races in her career from 2009 to 2013. Her triumphs included a dramatic victory at Royal Ascot in 2012, when jockey Luke Nolen won despite easing up before the line."
• Blake Lively recently wore a $19,000 pair. How much is too much to spend on jeans? - "Featuring thigh-to-heel cut-outs and hibiscus-shaped embroidery, the denim pants by Italian fashion house Valentino, were styled with a simple white tank, Christian Louboutin heels, hoop earrings and Lively’s signature long tousled hair. How much is too much to spend on jeans? They are a conversation starter; they are about fantasy, they are not for the school drop-off."
• Tom Cruise pulled off the best Scientology stunt ever. If only he could really levitate - "Waving the Olympic flag in Paris, the cult’s star made the world forget about the unpleasant bits."
• Shopping hauls are so back - "One factor fueling purchase growth may be the ubiquity of Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) offerings like Klarna and Afterpay that are becoming increasingly mainstream. Even a lack of immediate cash has become less of an impediment to shopping."
• This Country Has the Most Clean Beaches in the World & They're All Gorgeous - "Spain is home to the most blue flags, with 748 sites boasting the designation, including 639 beaches. Next time you need an excuse to go on a beach vacation, just remember that the very act of being around water is scientifically proven to be good for you. Just looking at a body of water can make you feel more relaxed and actually lower both your heart rate and your blood pressure."
• 20-ish Things You Still Want to Do This Summer - "Taking beach trips, finishing a novel, shifting careers and falling in love are some of the things on readers’ summer bucket lists that they are still getting around to."
• Kea: The tiny, idyllic island where Greeks escape the heat - "For generations, this teardrop-shaped isle has been known as a cool summer escape for Greek families from the mainland."
• Germany's most walkable city has fairytale-inspired buildings & a famous beer festival - "Munich, Germany's most pedestrian-friendly city, with its fairytale-like architecture and renowned festival, offers a unique holiday experience."
• I wag, therefore I am: the philosophy of dogs - "What makes human existence worth the bother? How can we free ourselves of inner conflict and live with joy? In an extract from his new book, philosopher Mark Rowlands seeks canine counsel in answer to these eternal questions."
• 10 of the best regions in Europe for sparkling wine - "The bubbles don’t just stop in champagne country. Here’s where to find the fizz from Germany to Romania via Dorset and Catalonia."
• What People Wear in One of the Happiest Places on Earth - "At Copenhagen Fashion Week, outfits on and off the runway had a lively spirit that reflected the event’s location in a country known for its quality of life."
• The Painkiller Used for Just About Anything - "In huge numbers, older people are taking gabapentin for a variety of conditions, including itching, alcohol dependence and sciatica."

August 17, 2024

• Travellers advised to consider mpox vaccine - "Travellers should consider getting vaccinated against mpox if they will be visting affected areas in Africa, new advice says. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has updated its recommendations in response to outbreaks of a new strain of the virus. Other continents, including Europe, can expect some cases too, it says."
• Mpox cases 'highly likely' to rise in Europe, health chiefs warn - "Bavarian Nordic, which supplies Imvanex injections to the NHS, is seeking approval to offer the drug to children after global emergency declared."
• Who is the 'Ketamine Queen' accused of supplying Matthew Perry? - "Dubbed the 'Ketamine Queen' by US prosecutors, alleged drug dealer Jasveen Sangha is one of five people who US officials say supplied ketamine to Friends star Matthew Perry, exploiting his drug addiction for profit, and leading to his overdose death."
• ‘Shoot Me Up With a Big One’: The Pain of Matthew Perry’s Last Days - "Court papers show that Mr. Perry, the 'Friends' star who had long struggled with addiction, was increasingly taking ketamine, a powerful anesthetic, in the days before he died."
• Solar-powered boats are silently sailing through Ecuador’s Amazon rainforest - "Solar-powered boats are being used in remote areas of the Ecuadorean Amazon to transport indigenous Achuar people. The boats are provided by the non-profit Kara Solar."
• St-Tropez: The town telling visitors to stay away this summer - "Once a sleepy fishing village, this picture-perfect town on the French Riviera has transformed into one of the Mediterranean's most overcrowded summer destinations."
• Monaco to commemorate 80th anniversary of liberation, special tributes to American forces - "The Principality of Monaco will mark the 80th anniversary of its liberation during World War II on Tuesday, September 3, commemorating the end of successive occupations by Italy and Germany. This year, HSH Prince Albert has ensured that the anniversary holds special significance, particularly by honouring the crucial role played by the American army in the liberation."
• I live better in Iceland than in the U.S. - "38-year-old American expat lives on $73,000 in one of the world’s most expensive countries: ‘I feel safe, I feel at home’."
• Indiana Jones's Temple of Doom hat sells for $630k - "The brown felt fedora - specifically made for the Temple of Doom film - fetched $630,000 in Los Angeles on Thursday. The hat was part of the personal collection of Ford's stunt-double, Dean Ferrandini."
• 18 Things Your Nose Shape Says About You - "Who knew your nose had so much to say? 'Every feature on your face tells you something about yourself and who you're intended to be.'"

August 16, 2024

• Sweden confirms first case of mpox - "Global health officials on Thursday confirmed an infection with a new strain of the mpox virus in Sweden and linked it to a growing outbreak in Africa, the first sign of its spread outside the continent a day after the World Health Organization declared the disease a global public health emergency."
• How Did Mpox Become a Global Emergency? What's Next? - "The virus is evolving, and the newest version spreads more often through heterosexual populations. Sweden reported the first case outside Africa."
• Late-Summer Travel Plans? You Might Want to Put On a Mask - "With U.S. Covid-19 cases at very high levels and new vaccines still several weeks away, we asked experts for their advice on when and where to wear a mask."
• Ukrainian team blew up Nord Stream pipeline, claims report - "Spokesperson for Volodymyr Zelenskiy denies WSJ claims and again accuses Russia of carrying out the sabotage."
• 5 Health Trends We Debunked This Year - "Apple cider vinegar, pimple patches, under-eye creams - do any of these actually work?"
• You’ve Lost Weight Taking New Obesity Drugs. What Happens if You Stop? - "Many patients are eager to discontinue Wegovy or Zepbound when their weight loss plateaus. But doctors say it’s difficult to go cold turkey."
• Are Robot Massages Worth the Hype? - "A.I.-informed massage robots will arrive at some Equinox gyms this month. I gave one a try."
• The 100 bestselling books of the past 50 years - "To celebrate 50 years of the Sunday Times bestseller list, we have calculated the nation’s most popular books over the past five decades - how many have you read?"
• Former Nazi bunker turned into hotel & leisure complex in Germany - "At 58 meters tall - just a little taller than the Leaning Tower of Pisa, but with considerably more heft - the St. Pauli bunker in Hamburg, Germany, has dominated the city skyline for just over 80 years. The relaunched Hamburg Bunker is now packed with two restaurants, a five-story Hard Rock Hotel and a newly built pyramid-like rooftop bar and garden from which greenery flows abundantly over the concrete facade."
• Five charged over Matthew Perry's death - "Five people have been charged in the drug-related death of Matthew Perry last year, police say, including two doctors and the actor's personal assistant."
• Michael Moore on how Harris-Walz can defeat Trump: ‘Do weird & cringe until the debate, then nail him’ - "Progressive film-maker says he’s more optimistic than he’s ever been since Trump announced first run eight years ago."
• Donald Trump’s weird clothes: from shoulder pads to extremely long ties, what do they mean? - "His sartorial choices are nothing if not bamboozling – so we went in search of some logic to the strange proportions and shiny fabrics."
• The Walserweg Gottardo: A new trail tells the story of Switzerland's forgotten people - "Crossing the High Alps through Switzerland and Italy, this 210km hiking route unravels some of the region's most intriguing human history."
• Hans Niemann closes on world top 20 as US star impresses in London - "The ambitious American leads narrowly after four games in his five-day match against the England No 1, Nikita Vitiugov, which includes classical, rapid and blitz sections."
• Gena Rowlands - a life in pictures - "Rowlands, best known as the star of groundbreaking movies directed by her husband John Cassavetes, has died aged 94. Here we look back on her career highs."

August 15, 2024

• WHO declares mpox a global public health emergency for second time in two years - "The World Health Organization on Wednesday declared mpox a global public health emergency for the second time in two years, following an outbreak of the viral infection in Democratic Republic of Congo that has spread to neighbouring countries."
• Unprecedented number of heat records broken around world this year - "In 2024, 15 national temperature records have been set as weather extremes grow more frequent, climate historian says."
• How does today’s extreme heat compare with Earth’s past climate? - "Viewed through a long enough lens, our climate can seem unremarkable - but for humans it is unprecedented."
• Stonehenge megalith came from Scotland, not Wales, ‘jaw-dropping’ study finds - "In a discovery described by one of the scientists involved as 'genuinely shocking', new analysis has found that the largest 'bluestone' at Stonehenge was dragged or floated to the site from the very north-east corner of Scotland - a distance of at least 466 miles (about 750km)."
• Why Switzerland is home to two of the world's most liveable cities - "With high scores in culture and environment in the liveability index, Swiss cities' proximity to nature contributes highly to residents' sense of happiness, especially since governmental and cultural norms allow ample time and space to enjoy it."
• The Most Liveable Cities in the World in 2024: Discover Top Quality of Life Locations Globally - "The pursuit of an ideal city has long been a topic of debate among architects and urban planners. In addition to aesthetic identity and cultural heritage, the quality of life in every city represents perhaps the most important marker in this pursuit."
• The beautiful town dubbed the 'Pearl of the Riviera' that boasts 300 days of sunshine - "The lovely microclimate, which grants the southern France town over 300 days of sunshine each year, allows Menton's famous lemon trees to flourish even in winter, and the town experiences very few rainy days. Nestled on the French Riviera right at the border between France and Italy, this town is renowned for its vibrant buildings and sandy beaches."
• Why Ibiza is having a fashion moment once again - "Fashion is just one aspect of Ibiza’s growing international reputation as a creative hub once again."
• A style icon's expert guide to shopping in Paris - "French 'it girl' and creative director of Rouje, Jeanne Damas gives her insider Parisian shopping recommendations from art books at Ofr to lingerie at Yasmine Eslami."
• Gena Rowlands, star of 'The Notebook,' dies at 94 - "Gena Rowlands, star of 'The Notebook' and 'A Woman Under the Influence,' dead at 94. Oscar-nominated actress Gena Rowlands, whose screen career spanned nearly seven decades."
• George Clooney & Brad Pitt: a Hollywood love story - "Their relationship reveals a lot about all male bonding, says Simon Mills. Plus: I have a BFF like George and Brad."
• Kim Dotcom to be extradited from New Zealand to US - "Justice minister signs extradition order for Megaupload founder 12 years after FBI-ordered raid over file sharing site."
• Musk’s ‘fun’ AI image chatbot serves up Nazi Mickey Mouse & Taylor Swift deepfakes - "Grok doesn’t reject prompts depicting violent and explicit content as X owner calls it ‘the most fun AI in the world!’"
• The Orient Express Is Bringing Its Luxury Train Tours to Italy - "Orient Express is rolling out its La Dolce Vita train in Italy in the spring of 2025. The locomotive will offer eight luxurious itineraries to explore Venice, Sicily, Tuscany, and more. Bookings for the eight new itineraries have just opened."
• THE 5 FASTEST HIGH-SPEED TRAINS IN OPERATION TODAY - "1. Shanghai Maglev - 286 mph - China. 2. CR400 Fuxing - China. 3. Deutsche Bahn ICE 3 - Germany. 4. JR East E5 - Japan. 5. TGV - France."
• Steve McQueen's Final 'Le Mans' Watch Is Coming to Auction - "Now, the fourth McQueen-worn Monaco is coming to auction as the crown jewel of Sotheby's New York auction on December 11th."

August 14, 2024

• George Clooney has some choice words for Quentin Tarantino, who said he doesn’t think Clooney is a movie star - "George Clooney has a profanity-laced bone to pick with director Quentin Tarantino."
• Five years after a $124-million museum heist shocked the world, recovered jewels returned home - "In November 2019, thieves stole pieces that contained more than 4,300 diamonds with an estimated value of over 113 million euros ($124 million), from the Gruenes Gewoelbe (Green Vault) museum in Dresden, in the eastern German state of Saxony."
• White jeans for gents: can you pull them off? - "Yes, they're a divisive summer choice, but here's why I'm a White Trouser Fella, says Simon Mills. For the devoted WTF (White Trouser Fella) — Mick Jagger, Paul Weller, Brad Pitt, Prince Harry, Steve McQueen, JFK, Matt Damon, Andrew Garfield and Ryan Reynolds et al - white jeans are the very essence of summer. Sunny, fresh, versatile, sporty, preppy and fabulously Euro-sprezzaturian."
• Norway's new ad has attracted nearly 20 million views since its release in late June - "How a viral ad campaign is teaching us to 'life-see', not sightsee. In a summer of overtourism, a viral Oslo travel advert with nearly 20 million views is turning the tables on what travellers want."
• Billionaire, Nerd, Saviour, King by Anupreeta Das review - an appeal to cancel Bill Gates - "An attempt to expose the billionaire founder of Microsoft fails to land a killer blow. There are 2,781 individuals in the world worth more than a billion dollars, according to Forbes, and together these people have a net worth of $14.2tn, roughly the GDP of the Eurozone. The book sets itself up as an exposé of the billionaire’s life and secrets, his 'hidden truth', as the subtitle puts it."
• Vivaldi taught Venetian orphan girls - did they help write his music in return? - "A chance discovery introduced me to the composer’s work with abandoned children. The more I learned, the more I wondered about the creative role they played in his music."
• Google Unveils Pixel 9 Phones to Beat Apple's iPhone - "The internet giant unveiled the next generation of Pixel phones, headphones and watches to stand out in a hardware market that has mostly ignored it."
• Google Pixel’s ‘Add Me’ lets the photographer join group picture - "Company brings forward announcement of new features to ‘upstage’ Apple iPhone event in September, analyst says."
• How to Send Secret Encrypted Messages Using Your iPhone Notes App - "You can send and receive secret messages straight from your iPhone. The built-in Notes app for iOS is a secret weapon for private conversations."
• We Bet You've Never Heard of These 23 Secret iOS Settings - "Seasoned iPhone user? There are still a few tricks up your smartphone's sleeve."
• Best chef's knives for 2024, tested & reviewed - "We tested popular brands like Wüsthof, Mercer and Shun to see which knives are the best. The winner cuts through food like it's Marshmallow Fluff."
• private jet shopping service helping the super-rich skip VAT - "Naran is offering his customers a service that allows them to effectively courier their goods on a jet through a freight forwarding licence. The good news is that Naran has found a work-around to avoid paying the VAT. The bad news is that it is only good news if you’re a member of the private jetterati."
• Highest-Paid CEOs 2024 - "CEO pay continues to outpace the pay of working people across the country. In the past 10 years, typical CEO pay at S&P 500 companies increased by more than $4 million, to an average of $17.7 million in 2023. Meanwhile, the average U.S. worker saw a wage increase of $18,240 over the past decade, earning on average just $65,470 in 2023. Included in the survey are the CEOs of TPG Inc. (over $198 million), Carlyle Group Inc. (over $186 million), Broadcom Inc. (over $161 million), Palo Alto Networks Inc. (over $151 million), and Coty Inc. (over $149 million)."

August 13, 2024

• American cities are getting unbearably hot. These ones are roasting the most - "All of the country’s 50 most-populated cities all have gotten hotter over the past 50 years, and all but three are experiencing more 'extremely hot' days above 95 degrees."
• Familiar vitriol & Musk the enabler: key takeaways from Trump’s X interview - "After a 45-minute delay, the former president ran through his greatest hits - and biggest lies - to a fawning Elon Musk."
• This man has dined at every three-star Michelin restaurant in world - "A German software engineer based in San Francisco has been on a 17-year mission to visit all 145 restaurants."
• The era of freeloading is officially over - "Once upon a time, you could have yourself a nice little Saturday of stocking up at Costco (using your sister’s membership card, naturally), before hitting up a museum (free admission with your 15-year-old expired student ID) or settling into a reality TV binge sesh (streaming on your college roommate’s ex-boyfriend’s Netflix login). You wouldn’t call it stealing, per se. Mooching, perhaps. Exploiting a loophole in a system of commercialized culture you didn’t create but are forced to participate in - and what could be more capitalist than that? But thanks to the fine-tuning of the tech that Corporate America uses to police subscriptions, those freeloading days are over."
• Are we happy yet? The Endless Quest to Max Out on Happiness - "There is a great deal of disagreement on how even to measure happiness and fairly weak evidence that doing so makes us significantly happier."
• Rarely seen Titanic artefacts kept in secret warehouse - "A handbag made from alligator skin and tiny vials of perfume that still release a potent scent are just some of the precious artefacts recovered from the world’s most famous shipwreck - the Titanic."
• Celebrity Sunglass Sightings at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games - "As athletes break records and push boundaries, celebrities in the stands will dazzle us with their chic outfits, making headlines with each stylish glance."
• Unlock the Full Power of Google Maps: 10 Expert Tips - "Get the most out of Google Maps with these 10 practical tips. Perfect your navigation skills and explore advanced features. Google Maps is a powerful tool that can help you navigate the world around you. Whether you’re driving, biking, walking, or taking public transportation, Google Maps can provide you with turn-by-turn directions, real-time traffic updates, and a variety of other helpful features."
• The Top 10 Swiss Watch Brands in 2024 - WatchGecko.
• Don’t throw away your old sunglasses - "What to do with those broken or outdated sunnies instead. From upcycling projects to sustainable brands, there are countless creative options to consider. Recycling sunglasses helps reduce waste and supports environmental sustainability. Many local recycling facilities accept eyewear for recycling and often partner with optical shops to repurpose the materials."
• Leica D-Lux 8 review: the best Leica camera for most people - "Is the Leica D-Lux 8 the best cheap Leica? We think it might be. The Leica D-Lux 8 is unquestionably the best value-for-money camera in the Leica family. Image quality is magnificent, with the iconic look the brand is famed for. It's not perfect, but it's the cheapest way of getting that iconic style, and that's a great thing, indeed."

August 12, 2024

• 5 takeaways from an extremely memorable Olympics closing ceremony - "It was a party in the Stade de France as an electric two-and-a-half weeks of the Summer Olympics wrapped up on Sunday with a celebration of the athletes, the people who made the Games happen and a preview of what to expect in four years."
• The best photos of the Paris Olympics - "The Paris Olympics wrapped up Sunday with the closing ceremony at the Stade de France, and the baton was passed to Los Angeles, which will be hosting the Games in 2028. The United States won the most medals in Paris (126) and tied China for the most gold medals (40)."
• Tom Cruise performs crazy stunt jump from stadium roof during Olympics closing ceremony - "The Olympic Games are about to go Hollywood, and Tom Cruise just gave everyone a taste of what it’s going to be like."
• Paris 2024 Olympics: lifts, laughs & love on day 16 - "As the Games of the XXXIII Olympiad draws to a close, we take a look at of the best images from day 16 in Paris."
• Paris 2024 Olympics Medal Table - "Official medal standings for the Paris 2024 Olympics (Jul 26-Aug 11, 2024). Find out which athletes are bringing home medals and breaking records."
• Meet ‘Eve’ the DNA-collecting robot fish - "Some 400 kilometers (250 miles) from the nearest sea, engineering students at Switzerland’s ETH Zurich are hard at work on cutting-edge robots that may change the way the world’s oceans are studied."
• ‘Cruisezilla’ passenger ships have doubled in size since 2000, environmental group warns - "'Today’s cruisezillas make the Titanic look like a small fishing boat,' Inesa Ulichina, sustainable shipping officer at T&E, said in a statement."
• Scientists Revealed a Healthier Way to Cook Broccoli - "Unfortunately, studies have shown that common broccoli cooking methods, like boiling and microwaving, seriously reduce the amount of glucosinolates in the vegetable - even if you just zap it for a couple minutes. And myrosinase is super-sensitive to heat, too."
• Fasting-Style Diet Seems to Result in Dynamic Changes to Human Brains - "Intermittent calorie restriction leads to significant changes both in the gut and the brain, which may open up new options for maintaining a healthy weight."
• UK's most walkable city that's constantly named one of the prettiest - "The site named Oxford the UK's most walkable city as there are just 1.1 miles between the city's five biggest tourist attractions, and you could get between them in just 22 minutes."
• The Newport Mansions: Everything You Need to Know - "Inside the opulent Newport, Rhode Island, properties where visitors can step back in time to the Gilded Age."
• Madonna's Pompeii party for 500 A-list guests sparks outrage among Italians - "They discover just how 'cheaply' she is renting historic site for. An American events company is believed to have booked the site for €30,000."
• A Scientist Says Humans Will Reach the Singularity Within 21 Years - "Futurists have long debated the arrival of the singularity, when human and artificial intelligence will merge, a concept borrowed from the world of quantum physics."
• The Most Wanted ‘Girl’ in Fashion - "How did Miu Miu become fashion’s biggest success story - halfway to $1 billion in sales for 2024?"
• How Long Should Your Nespresso Machine Last? - "Find out which maintenance steps you should be taking regularly to help your Nespresso perform well for several years. For most users, technical problems tend to arise somewhere between the fifth and tenth years of service. With meticulous care, however, it's not rare for a Nespresso machine to continue brewing delicious coffee for over a decade. Read on for tips on keeping your appliance in tip-top shape."
• This 52-Year-Old Single Malt Is the Rare Macallan That’s Aged in a Bourbon Barrel - "Don't expect this half-century-old whisky to be a sherry bomb. Ducan Taylor is releasing a 52-year-old Macallan single malt that was aged for years in a bourbon barrel."

August 11, 2024

• Paris 2024 final day of Olympics - "Sifan Hassan wins women’s marathon in sprint finish; cycling finals & more - live."
• From Biles to Yee & Bol: 10 great moments at the Paris Olympics - "Abiding memories of the Games included Marchand’s dominance, Ngamba’s bronze and 100m and 1500m thrillers."
• Does a Speedsuit Make You Faster? Maybe. Does It Look Cool? Absolutely - "Once an outfit strictly worn by sprinters, the single-piece speedsuit has become common among middle-distance runners. Its efficacy is beside the point."
• There Is Still a Biden Scandal - "America could stand to learn a bit more about how the White House has been working recently."
• My Travel Tips for Seeing the World’s Best Places - "From fake wedding bands to decoy wallets, here's some advice for safely roaming our planet."
• 10 Personal Safety Devices That Will Make Every Hotel Room Feel Secure - "From portable door stop alarms to carbon monoxide detectors, the 10 devices every solo traveler needs."
• 7 must-have gadgets for your desk to make you more productive - "Time is money. Spend a little to save a lot with a macro pad, a smart notebook, and other efficiency boosters."
• Is There Anywhere You Can’t Wear a Baseball Cap? - "A reader reflects on the proliferation of baseball caps in men’s fashion - 'The tiara of America'. The cap craze may have reached its apex with the $625 Loro Piana cashmere-blend number worn by Jeremy Strong’s character in the HBO show 'Succession,' which became the embodiment of the stealth wealth surge. Our critic offers an explanation."
• Wallet, Keys, Personal Fan? The New Must-Have - "With temperatures rising, small electric fans have become a go-to accessory at bars, restaurants and even the post office."
• 8 things successful people do before 10 am every day, according to psychology - "There’s a significant difference between those who are successful and those who are not, and often it comes down to routine. Specifically, the morning routine. Successful people understand that how they start their day can set the tone for everything that follows. 1) They wake up early. 2) They engage in physical activity. 3) They practice mindfulness. ) They prioritize their tasks. 5) They connect with loved ones. 6) They practice self-care. 7) They educate themselves. 8) They practice gratitude."
• The art of small talk: 10 phrases great conversationalists always use - "Small talk is often seen as trivial, but it’s a vital social tool. It’s the way we connect with strangers, build rapport, and set the stage for deeper discussions. This phrase is a gem when it comes to connecting with others. It's a great way to show enthusiasm and interest in what the other person is ..."
• The 10 Most Expensive Cars (by Estimate) Heading to Auction at Monterey Car Week - "Monterey Car Week is a huge occasion for both the vintage car-obsessed and the extremely wealthy. This year's auction lineup promises to be particularly stellar ... or at least pricey."
• Cinema posters through the decades - in pictures - "In the age of streaming, we may not think too deeply about the impact of film posters, but for decades these designs played a vital part in guiding cinemagoers on what to see."

August 10, 2024

• Paris 2024 Olympics day 15 - "Men’s marathon, golf, basketball, athletics & more - live."
• Paris 2024 offers new Olympic medal after Huston says bronze looks ‘like it went to war’ - "Skateboarder shows medal looking scuffed and dull. Bronze degrades when exposed to oxygen."
• Otherworldly spectacle of beach volleyball under the Eiffel Tower rocks Paris - literally - "Any cynicism there may be about the sport’s place at the Olympics was silenced as stands at the makeshift venue shook on finals night."
• Seven of the Paris Olympics' most striking images - as artworks - "As the 2024 Paris Olympics draws to a close, the BBC rounds up some of the most stunning photos captured from the Games - and reveals their similarities to historic works of art."
• Tom Cruise to Perform Stunt at the Paris Olympics Closing Ceremony - "Cruise will reportedly be performing some big stunts to close out the 2024 Summer Games and help pass the Olympic flag to 2028 host Los Angeles. TMZ, which was first to report on the stunt, said the plan includes Cruise rappelling down from the top of the Stade de France."
• Start your day on a strawberry: 15 microhabits for calmer, healthier mornings - "From cold showers to mini meditations, experts share really simple tips for a brighter start to the day."
• Why champagne’s formula is changing for the first time in 90 years - "After nearly 90 years, the French have allowed a new grape variety to be added to the sparkling wine in attempt to future-proof production of the beverage."
• Seoul has become a global beauty capital. Here’s what three days of treatments are like - "What it’s like to undergo 15 beauty treatments in just 3 days in South Korea."
• Zero calorie sweetener linked to blood clots & risk of heart disease, study finds - "Consuming a drink with erythritol - an artificial sweetener used to add bulk to stevia and monk fruit and to sweeten low-carb keto products - more than doubled the risk of blood clotting in 10 healthy people, according to a new pilot study."
• The European nation ruled by sheep - "Meaning 'Sheep Islands', the Faroe Islands owe much of their unique identity to these hardy, tangle-haired creatures."

August 9, 2024

• Paris 2024 Olympics day 14 - "Open water swimming, athletics, golf and more - live."
• Paris Olympics 2024: thrills and gold grills on day 13 - in pictures - "The best images from around Paris, with diving, sailing, athletics and swimming all taking centre stage."
• Lyles' bid for Olympic sprint double wrecked by Covid - "Noah Lyles said he was 'proud' to win 200m bronze after being hit by Covid-19 wrecked his bid to become the first man since Usain Bolt to complete an individual Olympic sprint double."
• No marathon runner has ever done what Eliud Kipchoge is about to try - "Eliud Kipchoge: The two-hour marathon man has unprecedented Olympic glory at his feet."
• Breaking for beginners: all you need to know about Olympics’ newest sport - "Our guide will help sort your downrock from your freeze as 60-second blasts of dance take over the Paris Games."
• Meet Dominika BaneviČ, teenage breaking superstar who wants to ‘write history’ in the Olympics’ newest sport - "She was exposed to the newest Olympic sport while watching cartoons online, and now the Lithuanian prepares for her debut at the Paris Games as the defending world champion after beating more than 90 other B-girls in Belgium in 2023."
• Ranked: Athletes with the Most Olympic Medals - "Phelps is Oceans Ahead. In this graphic, we show the top nine athletes by the total number of Olympic medals won, including one who medaled at Paris 2024."
• Razor-thin solar panels could be ‘ink-jetted’ onto your backpack or phone for cheap clean energy - "A coating 100 times thinner than a human hair could be 'ink-jetted' onto your backpack, cell phone or car roof to harness the sun’s energy, new research shows, in a development that could reduce the world’s need for solar farms that take up huge swaths of land."
• Harris-Walz’s campaign hat says more than you might think - "What do sport hunters and fans of breakout queer pop star Chappell Roan have in common? Well, not much, perhaps. But now you can add at least one item to that list: Kamala Harris’ and Tim Walz’s new campaign cap."
• Travel fan's headphones hack for long-haul flights 'helps so much' - "The clever technique involves placing the airline-provided earpieces in your ears first, then topping them with your own headphones, creating an effective shield from any external noise. However, it only works if you have over-the-head/earphones rather than those that sit in the ear canal."
• New artefacts found on ‘holy grail of shipwrecks’ off Colombia - "New artefacts have been uncovered on the 18th Century Spanish galleon dubbed the 'holy grail of shipwrecks' off the coast of Colombia. It is estimated to be laden with as much as £16bn in treasure, sea including chests of emeralds and some 200 tons of gold coins."
• 2024 wellness trend to help you switch you off - "Mindfulness retreats: The quiet travel solution to a noisy world. In a world simultaneously connected through and plagued by social media, silence is becoming an ever-appreciating commodity."
• 10 Reasons to Wait for Next Year's iPhone 17 - "If you plan to skip this year's iPhone 16, or if you're just plain curious about what's on the horizon, here are 10 rumored features that we are expecting to arrive in time for its successor, the iPhone 17 series, which is likely to be released in September 2025."
• What lies beneath: the growing threat to the hidden network of cables that power the internet - "Last month large parts of Tonga were left without internet when an undersea cable was broken. It’s a scenario that is far more common than is understood."
• Countries Named From the Greek Language - "1. Argentina: the land of silver. 2. Azerbaijan and the ancient city of Atropatene. 3. Egypt's name comes from two words in the Greek language. 4. Ethiopia and Eritrea. 5. Georgia, named after a Greek Saint. 6. Indonesia, Micronesia, and Polynesia. 7.Malta, named after its famous honey."
• 5 Things to Know Before Buying a Longines watch - "Longines is one of the best kept secrets in the watch industry despite having an immensely rich history and solid value for money."
• 5 common medicines you must never have with tea or coffee - "Antibiotics, thyroid, asthma, diabetes, and Alzheimer's medications were notably affected. Caffeine interfered with these drugs' absorption, metabolism, and excretion, leading to issues such as restlessness, headache, and reduced medicine efficacy."

August 8, 2024

• Paris 2024 Olympics day 13 - "Heptathlon begins, plus taekwondo, diving, golf and more - live."
• Paris Olympics 2024: day 12 - in pictures - "The best images from around Paris, with diving, basketball, sailing, athletics, golf, cycling and wrestling all taking place."
• Paris Olympics 2024: projecting the light fantastique - in pictures - "Parisienne Projections is a Getty Images project throughout the host city of Paris, which displays the action and competitors’ reactions during their Olympic competitions."
• Tug of war, pistol dueling & other strange Olympic Games - "Live pigeon shooting only appeared once - at the 1900 Olympics in Paris. Nearly 300 birds were slain in the bloody spectacle. Today, clay targets are standard."
• Apple releases iOS 17.6.1 for iPhone with ‘important bug fixes’ - "According to the release notes, iOS 17.6.1 contains several bug fixes, including an issue 'that prevents enabling or disabling Apple’s Advanced Data Protection feature.'"
• Why the super rich are building super luxury bunkers - "Operating theaters, bowling alleys and home cinemas: Not happy with safe rooms, the super-rich are building luxury fortresses."
• Secrets of the wedding planners to the uber-rich - "Banana Split went from mobile discos to organising the megarich’s biggest parties and celebrations. Sophia Money-Coutts visits the north London industrial estate where they’ve got Ed Sheeran on speed-dial."
• Warren Buffett now owns more T-bills than the Federal Reserve - "The Omaha, Nebraska-based conglomerate held $234.6 billion in short-term investments in Treasury bills by the end of the second quarter."
• Steve Jobs' widow's $140M megayacht SMASHES into another monster vessel owned by telecoms billionaire - "The high-value crash involved the 78-meter Venus, commissioned by the late Apple founder and now owned by Laurene Powell Jobs, and the 105-meter Lady Moura, owned by Mexican billionaire business titan Ricardo Salinas. The two liners, that cost a combined $265 million, slammed into each other after a vicious gust of wind off the Italian coast of Naples put them on a collision course."
• Where foodies eat on holiday: the top 28 places in the Med - "From Giles Coren’s favourite Spanish restaurant - it serves only one dish, milk-fed lamb - to langoustines in Liguria and a delightful, menu-less grill in Greece."
• The beautiful European city that's just like Majorca but with hardly any tourists - "Between the Italian island of Sicily and Northern Africa lies the Maltese archipelago, famed for its iconic architecture, hot Mediterranean weather and beautiful beaches. Mdina was Malta’s capital until 1530 and is still confined within its stone walls."
• This Country Was Just Named the Best Place to Live for Digital Nomads for Its Affordability & High Quality of Life - "The report identified Spain as the best place to work and live as a digital nomad."
• The next world’s tallest building could be a 3,000-feet-high battery - "3,000 feet of steel and concrete could solve renewable energy’s biggest problem. Skyscrapers could soon have a new purpose: storing renewable energy."
• No god in the machine: the pitfalls of AI worship - "The rise of artificial intelligence has sparked a panic about computers gaining power over humankind. But the real threat comes from falling for the hype."
• Why the Classic Fisherman Sandal Is the Perfect Summer Shoe - "'Whatever it is you wear,' Diana Vreeland said in the 1975 style guide Cheap Chic, 'I think shoes are terribly important.'"
• Sea, sand & sky-high fees: Italians tussle over their right to lie on the beach - "Much of Italy’s beachfront is in the hands of family-run concessions who operate exclusive clubs or charge big money for umbrellas and loungers. But a new ruling is rallying activists on both sides."
• Vanuatu presidential palace funded by China stirs debt fears - "Beijing says ‘no strings attached’ to the complex unveiled last month amid wider concerns over loans the Pacific country owes to China."

August 7, 2024

• Paris 2024 Olympics day 12 - "Women’s golf begins, athletics, diving and more - live."
• Paris Olympics 2024: kites, kayaks and kicks on day 11 - in pictures - "The best images from day 11, with diving, javelin, sailing, athletics, skateboarding and wrestling all in action."
• Ryan Gosling, mullets & golden grills: all the latest in Olympics fashion - in pictures - "While Hollywood A-listers dress up and dress down, the real stars of the Games continue to dazzle with their tatts, teeth and questionable hair choices."
• The tech that showed Noah Lyles winning gold - "When judges needed to determine who won Sunday's Olympic 100-meter race, they drew on some fancy new technology - a camera from Omega that shoots 40,000 frames per second, aimed right at the race's last few millimeters."
• Looking Back At All The Omega Speedmaster Olympic Games Special Editions - "Speedmasters made to mark the global sporting event."
• Elon Musk sues Unilever, Mars, CVS Health & Danish renewable energy firm Ørsted over X 'boycott' - "Elon Musk's X/Twitter is suing a group of major companies, alleging that they unlawfully conspired to boycott the site."
• How did ancient Egyptians stack those heavy stones of the oldest pyramid? Scientists float new theory - "The Step Pyramid of Djoser, Egypt's oldest pyramid, could have been built using hydraulic lift technology, according to a new study."
• Einstein's letter that changed the course of history - "On 2 August 1939, Albert Einstein wrote to the US President Franklin D Roosevelt. His letter would result in the Manhattan Project, and one of history's most significant - and destructive - inventions. On 10 September 2024, Einstein's consequential and carefully worded letter will be auctioned at Christie's New York, and is expected to fetch in excess of $4m."
• 20 Most Advanced Countries in the World - "Over the past few years, the global technology landscape has witnessed a significant transformation. The two most dominant trends that emerged in 2023 were generative AI and electrification."
• 'Quietest city in Europe' named where tourists can explore without being crowded - "Luxembourg has been crowned as Europe's quietest destination by Riviera Travel, indicating it receives the least number of tourists, allowing visitors to explore without the hassle of crowds."

August 6, 2024

• Paris 2024 Olympics day 11 - "Athletics, cycling, boxing and more - live."
• The best photos of the Paris Olympics - "Updated 7:00 PM EDT, Mon August 5, 2024."
• How the Olympics Brought the Omega Speedmaster Back to Its Roots - "American sprinter Noah Lyles won the Olympic gold medal at the men's 100m sprint, and he did it with a surprising Omega on his wrist."
• Beautiful holiday destination is the worst European country for pickpockets - not Spain - "The worst country in Europe for pickpockets has been named, and it's bad news for Britons heading to popular holiday destinations this summer. The Trevi Fountain in Rome is pinpointed as the worst offender for pickpocketing with over 470 mentions of 'pickpockets' in Tripadvisor critiques."
• The Oldest City In Italy Is An Underrated Ancient Gem Where History Lovers Will Thrive - "Matera Is A Must For History-Lovers Visiting Italy. The city of Matera has been inhabited since the Paleolithic Age, and many of those who've resided there over the centuries had dwellings carved right out of the soft tufa rock."
• Hamburg, Known As The 'Venice Of The North,' Has The Most bridges in Europe - "Sitting around 60 miles from the North Sea, Hamburg features almost 2,500 bridges, with some from the modern era and one from as far back as the 17th century."
• 10 Habits the Wealthy Abandon After Leaving Poverty - "Wealth and poverty are two sides of a coin that can flip with the right mindset and actions. The journey from financial struggle to prosperity is often paved with significant changes in habits and behaviors."
• 15 most expensive & coveted Patek Philippe watches - "Among the greats of high horology, Patek Philippe has presented numerous extraordinary timepieces over the years - many of which are deserving of attention and interest."
• 10 Best Quotes from The Godfather Trilogy, Ranked - "These lines capture the essence of the characters and highlight what the films are about: power, loyalty, betrayal, and the dark, gritty world of the Mafia."
• Charted: Alcohol Preferences Around the World - "In this visualization, we show the distribution of alcohol consumption by beverage type in different regions worldwide."
• Every Sommelier I Spoke to Recommends This $25 Tool for Getting the Most From Your Wine - "No need to wait hours for decanting."
• this is the only proper shirt you'll evver need - "Yes, the humble Oxford shirt is an icon of American design - but it's also the only button-down you'll ever need. Good enough for Davis, Newman, and Dean - good enough for the next generation of style icons, too."
• It's a Big Day for a Very Important Oyster - "On National Oyster Day, the River Project celebrates a colossal oyster in New York Harbor."

August 5, 2024

• Paris 2024 Olympics day 10 - "GB triathlon bronze, athletics, cycling, gymnastics and more - live."
• Noah Lyles takes the Olympic gold in the 100-meter dash by the slimmest of margins - "An American is once again the world’s fastest man. Noah Lyles earned that title and the gold medal in the men’s 100-meter dash by the slimmest of margins - just five-thousandths of a second - on Sunday night outside Paris."
• Global stock markets sink on US economy fears - "Stock markets across Europe and Asia tumbled on Monday, spooked by fears that the US economy is heading for a slowdown."
• ‘Astonishing’ Antarctica heat wave sends temperatures 50 degrees above normal - "The latest data shows high temperatures in portions of East Antarctica - where the most abnormal conditions are ongoing - that are typically between minus 58 and minus 76 degrees Fahrenheit are now closer to minus 13 to minus 22 degrees Fahrenheit."
• Has the Long Friendship of Bill Gates & Warren Buffett Reached Its Final Act? - "Growing tensions between the two billionaires, over issues both substantive and stylistic, have roiled the world of philanthropy."
• Sea moss punch: The Caribbean's cooling, healthy elixir for summer - "Plucked from the ocean, Trinidad's answer to the summer milkshake is now part of a frenzied craze around the world."
• 7 of the 10 most expensive cities to live in the world are in the United States - "Last month, data company Numbeo released its annual Cost of Living Index by City."
• 6 Private Jet Interiors That Are Like Penthouses in the Sky - "These six private jet interiors are like penthouses in the sky, showing how diverse tastes can be in the world's largest business aircraft. The bespoke bizliner concepts include fireplaces, 'smart fabrics,' and rain showers. The two real cabins also have flashes, but without the bling."
• Why female friendships can be so fragile - "Fragile and complex, female friendships hinge on the three S’s, a new book says. Author Danielle Bayard Jackson says the three concepts of support, symmetry and secrecy help women feel close and connected."
• The second act of Sam Neill: ‘The truth was, I didn’t know how long I had to live’ - "He is one of the world’s best actors - but can still go to Starbucks without anyone recognising him. He discusses cancer, remission, happiness, fame and video nasties."
• ‘One of the most charismatic artists ever’: Piero della Francesca, adored by everyone from Hockney to Heaney - "He transfixed Pasolini and painted Seamus Heaney’s favourite artwork - and now David Hockney is paying tribute to this very modern Renaissance master in a joint show."
• ‘The obnoxious one’: new book by Trump’s nephew exposes a sordid past - "Fred Trump III’s portrayal of the Queens-born former president shows him as volatile, uncaring and racist."
• Eau de Fido: Dolce & Gabbana launches luxury perfume for dogs - "Vet says dog perfume shows only that the wealthier demographic are finding new ways to spend their money and that canines will be unimpressed."
• 6 underused AirPods tips & tricks I use to improve my listening experience - "Here are six awesome AirPods Pro (1st generation and 2nd generation) features, the first four of which also support AirPods (3rd generation), that are very underused. 1 Rename your AirPods. Something to make them easy identifiable. 2 Answer phone calls. Also, end them. 3 Mute yourself during calls. With a single press. 4 Customize your tap gestures. Press and hold. 5 Personalized volume. Automatically volume based on your environment. 6 Conversation awareness. Lower volume when you speak."
• The man who was in more James Bond movies than any 007 - "The late Sir Roger Moore, who died aged 89 in 2017, spoke at his funeral. As it stands, the popular Desmond Llewelyn remains the actor who has appeared in the most Bond films, and playing the same character, ahead of Lois Maxwell who played Miss Moneypenny in 14 films."
• The Oldest Languages in the World & the Origins of Writing - "Determining the exact 'oldest' languages can be challenging as the origin of many ancient languages is often shrouded in mystery. However, based on historical evidence and linguistic research, historians and philologists can make educated guesses."

August 4, 2024

• Paris 2024 Olympics day nine - "Athletics, tennis, golf, dressage and more - live."
• Paris Olympics 2024: day eight - in pictures - "Track and field heats up, plus the best of the rest as we bring you our favourite images from Paris."
• Why are women’s running uniforms more revealing than men’s? - "Dress Codes: How high is too high? The evolution of the women’s running brief."
• Death Valley records its hottest month ever in July - "The national park had an average 24-hour temperature of 108.5F (42.5C), that month, beating its previous record in 2018."
• Charted: The Countries Using the Most Energy per Capita - "Qatar and Iceland Consume Most Energy Per Capita."
• Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway cuts stake in Apple by nearly 50% - "Berkshire Hathaway disclosed its holdings in Apple were valued at $84.2 billion at the end of the quarter, dropping from 790 million shares to 400 million shares. The sharp selloff is notable for Buffett, who is known for holding onto stocks for long periods of time."
• A Beginner’s Guide to Investing in Luxury Watches: How to Start, Model Comparisons & More - "When you hear the word 'investment', what comes to mind? We’re guessing traditional instruments like stocks, real estate or bonds. But what about luxury watches? Luxury watches are more than just fancy timepieces. They’re also specimens of precision and craftsmanship, make beautiful family heirlooms, and can be good investments - if you pick the right ones."
• Will A.I. Kill Meaningless Jobs? - "And is that so bad?"
• Life with the 'ugliest' dog-turned Hollywood star - "The transformation of Britain's 'ugliest' dog into a Hollywood star has been unexpected and 'surreal', her owner has said."
• Your Feet Are Killing Me - "Are sandals in the city an insult to the eye or the advent of a digital revolution?"
• Can You Defrost & Refreeze Foods? - "Shuttling dishes and ingredients from fridge to freezer and back again can be totally fine, as long as you follow some guidelines."
• What Is the 'It' Water Bottle for Back-to-School Shopping? - "The mighty Stanley’s reign appears to be ending, with Owala, Lululemon and Hydro Flask all competing for affection - and cachet - among teens and tweens."
• 5 Ways to Make Friends (Without Joining a Book Club) - "Experts share strategies for connecting that actually work."
• Dogs Are the Best! But They Highlight Our Hypocrisy - "Over the past couple of decades, dogs have evolved into humans. Some 97 percent of Americans consider dogs (or other pets) part of their families. A majority of dog owners celebrate canine birthdays, and nearly two-thirds report that they take more photos of their dogs than of family members."
• Forget high-heels - women are choosing flats instead - "Living in flip flops and slippers during lockdowns could partly account for the shift, say podiatrists, as feet spread out and softened."
• Is It Time To Return To Handwritten Notes? - "You'll remember it better. Writing by hand can significantly improve memory retention; studies show it. I can't remember which studies; I typed them out. But I do know this! When you write something down, you engage more with it than when you type, and this helps you store it in your memory more effectively."

August 3, 2024

• Paris 2024 Olympics day eight - "Athletics, men’s cycling road race, rowing bronze for GB and more - live."
• 10 biggest stories of the first week of the 2024 Summer Olympics - "The 2024 Summer Olympics are heading into their second weekend, and it’s truly been one for the history books. From Simone Biles’ incredible comeback story to Léon Marchand’s week for the ages in the pool to that blue guy in the opening ceremony, the Paris Olympics have already produced some indelible images that will live on long after they’re over."
• Don’t try this at home: experts warn against copying Olympic feats - "Physiotherapists and doctors say people run risk of serious injury or even death without proper training."
• Champagne, Soft Piano & No Lines: Luxe Life at the Olympics - "A new program allows spectators at the Paris Games to upgrade their seats, eat tastier food, tip glasses of bubbly and avoid the throngs."
• A crucial ocean system could collapse within our lifetime, leaving parts the world unrecognizable - "A vital system of Atlantic Ocean currents that influences weather across the world could collapse as soon as the late 2030s, scientists have suggested in a new study - a planetary-scale disaster that would transform weather and climate."
• UNESCO Just Added 24 New World Heritage Sites for 2024 - "Including remarkable archaeological sites in South Africa and Brazil's stunning Lençóis Maranhenses National Park. In total, there are 1223 properties on the list spanning nearly 170 nations."
• Industry season three: Why you need to watch 'the most cynical show on TV' - "Set in the cutthroat world of UK high-finance, Industry is a Gen-Z Succession that's as ruthless as it is entertaining - here's why it deserves to be on your radar."
• 'Cold Hawaii': Denmark's unlikely surf town where old-school fishermen & surfers live in harmony - "Klitmøller has been transformed from a fishing village into a buzzing and gnarly surf spot, where newcomers are welcomed to join Cold Hawaii's growing community of transplants."
• Discovering Calabria in Italy, where tourists are seen as a blessing, not a curse - "It has sandy beaches, hilltop towns and emerald seas to make fans of Italy swoon, yet this southernmost region remains an undiscovered gem."
• Why have the big seven tech companies been hit by AI boom doubts? - "Their shares have fallen 11.8% from last month’s peak but more AI breakthroughs may reassure investors."
• How to turn your TV into a smart home center with Alexa, HomeKit, or Google Home - "Pair your streaming device with a set of smart speakers to create an immersive smart home and entertainment hub."
• The 10 Most Expensive Watches of 2024 (So Far) - "From Patek Philippe to Audemars Piguet, Breguet and Jacob & Co, these are the priciest—and most astounding—watches of the year."
• The 9 Best Pinot Noirs to Buy Right Now - "We picked our favorites from each of the world's top regions."
• I tested Apple Intelligence on my iPhone 15 Pro Max: 3 ways it spoiled me rotten - "Apple Intelligence indulges my laziness - and I can't get enough."
• Protect Your Credit Card by Changing This iPhone Setting - "If your iPhone's case holds your credit card, you should tweak this setting now: 1. Tap Settings. 2. Tap Face ID & Passcode. 3. Enter your Passcode. 4. Under Allow Access When Locked, tap the slider next to Reply with Message. Now when you receive a text, you'll need to unlock your phone to reply."
• Golfshot's Swing ID on the Apple Watch Ultra 2: Real-World Test & Tutorial - "I tested the GPS golf app's new shot-tracking feature at TPC Harding Park in San Francisco to see how it works."

August 2, 2024

• Paris 2024 Olympics day seven - "Athletics, golf, rowing, swimming and more - live."
• Paris Olympics 2024: day six - in pictures - "Judo, rowing and swimming are all happening on day six of the games as we look at some of the best images from Paris."
• The best photos of the Paris Olympics - "Snoop Dogg and Andy Murray among the best photos from Paris. Here are the most compelling photos we’ve seen from these Olympics so far." CNN.
• Is It a Bad Idea to Drink Alcohol on an Airplane? - "Experts suggest caution before ordering an in-air beverage. Here’s what to keep in mind."
• Is Decaffeinated Coffee Bad for You? - "Some worry that a chemical used to strip caffeine from coffee beans can increase the risk of cancer. Experts explain if you should be concerned."
• Scientists Keep Finding Heavy Metals in Dark Chocolate. Should You Worry? - "New research adds to the evidence that certain cocoa products contain lead and cadmium."
• A 10-Minute Workout for People Who Don’t Like Working Out - "It’s hard to get motivated when you dread exercise. Here’s how to get started."
• More Evidence Links Ultraprocessed Foods to Dementia - "Recent research, including a new study on processed meat, has suggested these foods can affect brain health. Experts are trying to understand why."
• These Nutrients Can Strengthen Aging Bones - "Bone loss is a natural part of getting older, but prioritizing certain foods can help slow the process down. 'Exercise and a nutrient-rich diet with adequate calcium, vitamin D and protein are the foundation stones for healthy bones,' Dr. Shapses said. They'll work together to benefit 'multiple organs in the body,” she said, “but especially bone.'"
• Which Type of Tool Watch is Right For You? - "These watches that were built and designed for a purpose are still fully capable of fulfilling their job roles. Therefore, it is important to understand why tool watches function, look and feel the way they do. As watch lovers the design and history of tool watches is what we buy into."
• How Ferdinand Porsche Built an Automotive Legend - "Porsche didn’t just start the sports-car company that bears his name—he is inextricably associated with the history of the automobile."
• I’ve been using iOS 18 since the beta came out, and this updated app has blown me away - "Notes has the best additions of any built-in iPhone app."
• I returned my Apple Vision Pro & Meta Quest 3 for these XR glasses & they're much cheaper - "The Viture One XR glasses can pair to any phone, tablet, or laptop, expanding your viewing experience for less money than popular VR headsets."
• Bentley's new Continental GT powered by "an engineering masterpiece" - "The new Continental GT is the company's first high performance car with a V8 hybrid engine. This milestone is described by Bentley as 'a landmark moment' in the brand's 105 year history."

August 1, 2024

• Paris 2024 Olympics day six - "Golf, rowing, tennis, gymnastics and more - live."
• Paris 2024 Olympics Medal Table - "Official medal standings for the Paris 2024 Olympics (Jul 26-Aug 11, 2024). Find out which athletes are bringing home medals and breaking records."
• Paris Olympics 2024: day five - in pictures - "Triathlon, diving and rowing among sports on show as we look at the best images on day five of the Games."
• Extreme ‘heat dome’ hitting Olympics ‘impossible’ without global heating - "Scorching temperatures in Mediterranean countries and north Africa already causing increase in premature deaths."
• Earth Overshoot Day 2024 - "Country Overshoot Day Calendar & Calculations. A country’s overshoot day is the date on which Earth Overshoot Day would fall if all of humanity consumed like the people in that country."
• 33 Of The World's Greatest Places To Travel - "Here, I’ve got a preview of 33 places from the Time list, which are not ranked in any specific order. I’ve organized them by destination, followed by some of the cruise and train winners."
• This city has 18,000 restaurants - but diners are spending $100 to eat at someone’s home - "Dubai has so many restaurants, you could eat at a new one every day and it’d take you nearly 50 years to get through them all. Spoilt for choice with cuisines from all over the globe, it’s a wonder anyone in the city eats at home. Yet people are shelling out to do just that. Not their own home, though: diners are handing over upwards of $80 to have complete strangers cook for them at 'supper clubs'."
• Copenhagen's new 'CopenPay' scheme rewards tourists - but does it actually work? - "Scoop up litter from canals. Volunteer on an urban farm. Pedal by bike instead of driving. As a reward for green deeds, visitors to Denmark's capital, Copenhagen, can get perks like free ice cream, glasses of wine and discounted museum entry."
• Breaking the bank: are Hollywood stars getting paid too much? - "Robert Downey Jr’s return to the Marvel universe will make him the highest-paid actor in the industry but post-strikes, should A-listers be taking all the cash?"
• ‘She lived so much life so quickly’: the lost tapes of Elizabeth Taylor - "A new documentary assembles hours of the famed actor unpacking her life and career - and reveals the misogyny she faced."
• Totally bananas! Gian Paolo Barbieri’s wild fashion shoots - in pictures - "The Italian photographer was inspired by cinema and art history to create outlandish images depicting Audrey Hepburn, Naomi Campbell and others."
• 18 Rules for Wearing a Suit in 2024 - "Tailoring experts weigh in on the ideal first suit, the proper shade of gray, and more vital sartorial questions."
• Meet The Sisters Behind Mongolia’s Hottest - & Most Progressive - Fashion Brand, Michel&Amazonka - "Style. Not everyone has it. But the designer duo Michel&Amazonka, the hottest - and most progressive - design team in Mongolia at the moment, they do."
• Almost half of dementia cases could be prevented or delayed, study finds - "Researchers name 14 factors for people to address to ‘hugely’ reduce risk of developing condition."
• You Can Use Your iPhone Notes App to Send Secret Messages - "There's a handy tool to facilitate private conversations, and it's built right into your iPhone: To communicate, simply type something into the note, which the other person will be able to see in real-time without you having to hit send. They'll also receive a notification any time the note is altered."
• How to enable Apple Intelligence on your iPhone - "1. Open the Settings app. 2. Go to the Apple Intelligence & Siri menu. 3. Tap on the 'Join the Apple Intelligence waitlist' option."

July 31, 2024

• Paris 2024 Olympics day five - "Men’s triathlon, Beaugrand wins women’s race for France - live."
• Picturesque Paris makes Olympic triathlon the most beautiful ‘venue’ of the Games - "'The Seine is swimmable,' says French president Emmanuel Macron as triathlon action underway."
• The highest-scoring wave in Olympic history produces a photo for the ages - "A perfect 10 pose for an (almost) perfect 10 wave goes viral."
• South Korea’s ‘coolest’ markswoman Kim Yeji shoots to fame after Paris Olympics - "Social media erupts over ‘main character energy’ and cool demeanour of pistol shooter Kim Yeji, who won silver at Paris 2024 Games and the title of the 'coolest person ever.'"
• Paris Olympics 2024: day four - in pictures - "Swimming, judo and water polo were just a few of the sports on show as we look at some of the best images from day four from Paris."
• 5 things we learned from Secret Service boss about Trump shooting - "The new acting head of the US Secret Service said he 'lost sleep' over security failures that led to the attempted assassination of Donald Trump during a testy congressional hearing on Tuesday."
• The 25 Greatest Independent Watchmakers in the World - "From F. P. Journe, MB&F, Kari Voutilainen and Greubel Forsey to fresh names on the scene, these are the best small-scale, high-end watchmakers working today."
• COMPACT EDC MULTI-TOOL IS A TOOLBOX IN YOUR POCKET THAT’S READY TO FIX ANYTHING - "It’s not that easy to find an EDC tool that perfectly balances quality, functionality, and accessibility. The OmniPro Tool is such a marvel of design and engineering, cramming no less than nine features in a single tool that’s no bigger than a credit card."
• Swish, Spit, Repeat: Is Oil Pulling Good for Your Teeth? - "It has been said to reduce cavities, whiten teeth and minimize bad breath. Here’s what the research suggests. In a 2022 analysis of nine small clinical trials, researchers concluded that oil pulling could indeed help reduce the bacteria in the mouth, but that it does not reduce plaque (the sticky film of bacteria that adheres to teeth), gum redness, inflammation or bleeding."
• This is the new Siri with Apple Intelligence in iOS 18.1 beta 1 - "The start of ‘a new era for Siri’ has arrived in iOS 18.1 beta 1. The new beta provides the first hands-on experience with an Apple Intelligence-infused Siri. Here’s what the new Siri can do and what it’s like to use it."
• Why, Exactly, Are Ultraprocessed Foods So Hard to Resist? This Study Is Trying to Find Out - "A Look Into Ultraprocessed Foods and Their Effect on Health. Understanding why they’re so easy to overeat might be key to making them less harmful, some researchers say."
• All 27 James Bond Movies Ranked by Tomatometer - "You know his name. You got his number. Since 1962, James Bond has been the spy whose reputation precedes him: As international man of mystery, as guru of gadgets and espionage thrills, and as the agent who never encountered a boundary – country, or personal space - he couldn’t sneak across. Now, we’re reaching into the classified files for every James Bond movie ever ranked by Tomatometer!"
• Lobster dinner for King Charles cost France €450,000 - "The extravagant banquet at the Palace of Versailles was part of King Charles' three-day state visit to France in September. President Emmanuel Macron pulled out all the stops for the monarch's visit in September - with guests being treated to blue lobster, crab and an assortment of cheeses."
• The female travellers who shaped the ancient world - "In the 1800s, a trio of women forever changed the study and understanding of ancient Egypt. So why have their legacies remained overlooked?"
• How ‘world’s first oil town’ is wrestling with fossil fuel legacy - "Cop29 host Baku has cleaned up since its Black City days - but this summit needs to do more than whitewash the facade of a petrostate."
• 6 Things You Didn't Know About Godawan Indian Whisky - "Godawan Whisky Has More Than 46 Awards. Their craftsmanship has paid off as collectively Godawan 01 and Godawan 02 have received 46 awards since 2022. In addition Godawan 100, which is a bespoke collector's edition, was awarded Single Malt Whisky of the Year at the 2024 London Spirits Competition."
• Winston Churchill’s 1946 Movado Was in Steve Forbes’s Collection for 30 Years. Now It’s Up for Sale - "A gift from the people of Switzerland after World War Two, this triple-calendar watch is loaded with provenance. Gifted to Churchill after WWII, Steve Forbes's collection has been home to this 1946 Movado Calendograf gem for 30 years."

July 30, 2024

• Paris 2024 Olympics day four - "Triathlon postponed due to pollution; swimming, rowing to come - live."
• What's the problem with swimming in the Seine? - "It should be a stunning set piece of Paris 2024 - triathletes competing in the River Seine, bringing swimming back to the centre of this city. But concerns about water quality mean the first event has had to be postponed for a day. France lags behind the European Union’s average score for top-quality bathing water conditions."
• The Olympic Flame Isn’t a Flame at All - "Two torches may have lit it to open the Paris Games, but that’s not a fire in the cauldron."
• Develop a winner’s brain by thinking like an Olympian - "How to think like an Olympian and develop a winner’s brain."
• The world is getting so hot & humid, parts of it will be uninhabitable - "Heat is testing the limits of human survivability. Here’s how it kills."
• Germans Combat Climate Change From Their Balconies - "Plug-and-play solar panels are popping up in yards and on balcony railings across Germany, driven by bargain prices and looser regulations."
• Apple Releases iOS 17.6 With Bug Fixes & Security Improvements - "Available for: iPhone XS and later, iPad Pro 13-inch, iPad Pro 12.9-inch 2nd generation and later, iPad Pro 10.5-inch, iPad Pro 11-inch 1st generation and later, iPad Air 3rd generation and later, iPad 6th generation and later, and iPad mini 5th generation and later."
• How to install the iOS 18.1 beta & get early Apple Intelligence access - "After installing the iOS 18.1 beta, open Settings - Tap the new Apple Intelligence & Siri button (just below Accessibility) - Choose to Join the Apple Intelligence Waitlist at the top."
• Weight-loss drugs may help smokers quit - "Semaglutide has been shown to protect against heart disease and may also stave off Alzheimer’s. Now it could also be of use in easing tobacco addiction."
• Timing, luck or talent - what makes a billionaire? - "What do an Italian communist student of mime, a toddler with an eye for a ball and a comedian who jokes about nothing have in common? They all went on to become members of a very select global club. Miuccia Prada, Tiger Woods and Jerry Seinfeld are among about 2,800 people on the planet who are US-dollar billionaires."
• We’ve been wrong about a key contributor to human happiness - "Money can’t buy happiness, of course. Of course. But it can really, really help. Here’s the deal: For years, there’s been a popular theory in behavioral science research that people hit a kind of 'happiness plateau' around the $75,000 a year threshold (or around $100,000 adjusted for inflation), and above that level, more money isn’t going to make you significantly happier. But according to new research from Matt Killingsworth, a senior fellow at the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School, there is an 'ever-increasing association between more money and higher happiness.'"
• In-Depth: The Patek Philippe Ref. 2497, Part 2 - "It's almost more freeing to gawk at the rarest watches without worrying if you'll be able to buy them. But if you are buying, we’ve got you covered too."
• Nine of the best TV shows to watch this August - "From the latest series of Industry and Only Murders in the Building to a dark comic drama about Greek gods starring Jeff Goldblum."
• Can't Find Anything Good on Netflix? Try the Secret Menu to Find Movies & Shows - "The Netflix secret menu is your key to unlocking hundreds of new movies. Netflix is hiding things from you. There are hundreds more TV shows and movies on the streaming service than what you know. You aren't locked out of the content. You just need to learn how to use the Netflix secret menu. Only then will you unlock access to everything the service has available and more."
• My Scandinavian summer: a campervan trip across Denmark & southern Sweden - "Our writer, partner and dog hit the road to Malmö, joining the locals at campsites and pausing for swims, walks and sauna sessions en route."

July 29, 2024

• Paris 2024 Olympics day three - "Tom Daley in diving action; mountain biking, rugby sevens and more - live."
• Why in the World Are We Sending 11-Year-Olds to the Olympics? - "The International Olympic Committee imposes no limits on competitors’ ages, leaving that decision to the international federations that govern each sport, so standards vary."
• Vegan diet may reduce biological age, twin study finds - "'The vegan diet appeared to turn back the clock on certain ageing processes within just eight weeks,' said Dr Lucia Aronica of Stanford University, one of the lead authors of the study. 'If our biological clock ticks slower, we might have a better chance of staying healthy for longer.'"
• The One Thing Watermelon Experts Do to Pick Sweet Ones - "It’s not a myth: You really do need to slap them and listen carefully. Don't worry, it's not just you. It's hard to pick a good watermelon. So much of what determines its sweetness is beyond your control."
• How Long Is Covid Contagious? - "It’s a tricky question to answer, but experts say symptoms and rapid tests are still good guides. 'There isn't any one time period where people are no longer infectious.” Some people may be contagious for just a few days, while for others it can be a few weeks.'"
• Alzheimer’s blood test catches 90% of early dementia cases, study finds - "A combined blood test for cognitive decline has a 90/ accuracy rate in determining whether memory loss is due to Alzheimer’s disease, a new study found."
• John Hinckley Jr. & the Madness of American Political Violence - "Forty-three years ago, he shot the president in a delusional bid for attention - one in a long line of disturbed young men who have bent the arc of the nation’s history."
• This $56 Casio watch is a retro step tracking dream - "It doesn’t do anything other than track steps, but that’s all I want it to do. And at this price? I ain’t complaining."
• Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport Carbon - "Hypercar goes a mere 62 miles on a full tank of fuel. Former President of Bugatti, Wolfgang Dürheimer, famously told Bloomberg: 'The average Bugatti customer has about 84 cars, 3 jets and one yacht'."
• 10 Most Rewatchable Classic Film Noir Movies, Ranked - "Film noir is one of the most popular film genres that initially gained notoriety in the United States during the 1930s as a result of the rise in pulp fiction and detective novels. Known for its black-and-white cinematography, cynical undertones, and hard-boiled characters, film noir continues to captivate film fans today with classics such as The Maltese Falcon, Gilda, and White Heat."

July 28, 2024

• Paris 2024 Olympics day two - "Swimming, gymnastics and basketball as Games continue - live."
• Paris 2024 Olympics Medal Table - "Official medal standings for the Paris 2024 Olympics (Jul 26-Aug 11, 2024). Find out which athletes are bringing home medals and breaking records."
• Going for gold: Olympic greats in pictures - "From Berlin 1936 to Beijing 2008, we revisit some of the Games’ most moving moments including the ‘black power’ salute, perfect 10.00s and the athlete who pioneered riding for the disabled."
• Five things to watch from the swimming competition at this year’s Olympic Games - "The first week of the Olympics and with it comes one of the Games’ signature events: Swimming."
• What to expect in the 100 days until Election Day & beyond - "Far from the boring rematch that had many Americans tuning out politics, the 2024 presidential election has had wild twists and scary turns."
• Oprah Winfrey & Gayle King break silence on THOSE lesbian lover rumors - "While appearing on Melinda French Gates' Moments That Make Us interview series, the 70-year-old media mogul, who has been with partner Stedman Graham for over 35 years, reflected on her close bond with King, 69. Oprah Winfrey shut down the longstanding rumor that she and her longtime best friend, Gayle King, have secretly been in a decades-long romantic relationship."
• The 36 Best Gifts for Frequent Travelers - "Give the globe-trotter in your life a gift that will appeal to their sense of worldly wonder. These items will make flights, long lines at customs, and hotel stays feel less arduous and more comfortable."
• Not Too Hot, Not Too Crowded: 6 Spots for a Late Summer Trip - "Let others fight the lines and the heat while you relax on a secluded beach or bike a trail through the mountains."
• 36 Hours in Nice, France: Things to Do & See - "The French Riviera resort town brims with the unexpected, including a wealth of prehistory, ancient ruins and newer attractions."
• Rediscovering Dubrovnik: the pearl of the Adriatic - "Turkish baklava, Greek moussaka, Italian pasta - the Croatian city’s complex history is reflected in its food. And then there’s its filmic looks and stunning location."
• 6 of the best lobster rolls in Maine - "Here's where a fourth-generation lobsterman goes for lobster rolls in Maine. Heather Strout Thompson has been hauling lobster since traps were wooden. Here are her top lobster rolls in her home state of Maine, from Chipman's Wharf to Luke's Lobster."
• Something in the water? Why we love shark films - "From the Steven Spielberg classic Jaws, to predators stalking the Seine in Under Paris, there is no shortage of shark films. Even Donald Trump is a fan - he was reportedly due to play the US president in a Sharknado film, before becoming the actual president."
• Buying Twitter was Elon Musk’s $44bn gamble. It might be working - "Two years after the takeover the platform ‘X’ is losing billions, but it’s still setting the political agenda and has had some success in promoting his libertarian views."
• Dementia is preventable: here are 12 things that put you at risk - "Research released this week will spell out the lifestyle and environmental issues that can lead to the condition and the steps that can cut your risk of developing it. The previous edition of the Lancet Commission, published in 2020, listed 12 modifiable risk factors: blood pressure, obesity, alcohol intake, smoking, lack of exercise, diabetes, brain injury, social isolation, hearing loss, depression, keeping the brain active and air pollution."
• Lyst Index - Fashion's Hottest Brands & Products - "The Lyst Index is the industry's quarterly report that ranks fashion's hottest brands and products."

July 27, 2024

• Paris 2024 Olympics day one - "Swimming, cycling, rowing, hockey and more - live."
• In pictures: The opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics - "For the first time in the history of the Summer Olympics, the opening ceremony took place outside of a stadium."
• Olympic flag raised upside down at end of rain-soaked opening ceremony - "A spectacular ceremony on the River Seine produced an embarrassing moment at the very start of the Olympics."
• ‘They just won the Olympics’: Internet goes wild for Mongolia’s Paris 2024 outfits - "Move over Lululemon, Berluti and Ralph Lauren. The internet has chosen its new favorite national uniform at the forthcoming Paris 2024 Olympics: Mongolia’s. Featuring intricately embroidered vests, pleated robes and accessories inspired by traditional attire, the country’s opening and closing ceremony outfits have taken social media by storm since being unveiled earlier this month. The designs are the work of Michel&Amazonka, an Ulaanbaatar-based label producing couture and ready-to-wear garments that 'express the essence of Mongolian tradition and culture' in what the brand calls a 'contemporary light.'"
• Paris Olympics opening ceremony review - soaring ambition deflated by patchy delivery - "This ceremony's creative director, Thomas Jolly, had the inspired idea to lean into Paris's famed romance by using the city itself as a stage. River, roads and rooftops were in play on rain sodden night that lacked usual class of French capital."
• For Paris Olympics, Surfing Will Head to Tahiti’s ‘Wall of Skulls’ - "Instead of the coast of France, surfers in 2024 will travel to Teahupo'o, home to some of the world's most dangerous waves."
• The new A-list must-have? An £80,000 protection dog. Called Kevin - "Foreign royalty, billionaires and celebrities are replacing their private security with four-legged bodyguards that are also devoted family pets. Hilary Rose on the rise of the furry status symbol."
• Meet the man building bunkers for billionaires - "They are thousands of miles from conflict zones, but these home-owners are still prepping for Armageddon."
• What you get on a £285,000-a-day superyacht - "Carinthia VII has a £2.6 million infinity pool, a helipad that doubles as a golf tee, three staff for each guest - and a dark past."
• Hidden element traced in remains of Renaissance astronomer Tycho Brahe’s secret alchemy lab - "While Danish astronomer Tycho Brahe is best known for his celestial discoveries made in the 16th century - before the invention of the telescope - he was also an alchemist who brewed secret medicines for elite clients. But what exactly Brahe worked on in his alchemical laboratory, located beneath his castle residence and observatory called Uraniborg, has been something of a historical enigma."
• Warren Buffett’s breakup with the Gates Foundation will hurt the world - "Buffett’s decision to put his money into a foundation controlled by his kids is a mistake. 'Three eccentrics have to agree on how to spend $135 billion' sounds more like the premise for a sitcom than a process that will accomplish real good with that much money."
• The Cut Of Steak Anthony Bourdain Loved - "During an interview with Insider Tech before his passing, he made clear that one class of steak stands above all others: the rib cut. Unlike the tenderloin, which he claims chefs will never order, Bourdain says rib cuts have the perfect mix of fat for flavor, and lean, tender meat."

July 26, 2024

• Paris Olympic Games 2024 - "Countdown to opening ceremony as travel network targeted – live."
• Seven things to look out for during the Olympic opening ceremony - "With an anticipated 10,000 athletes parading through the heart of Paris, Friday's Olympic opening ceremony promises a spectacle par excellence. Many of the details have been kept secret, so expect plenty of surprises. The ceremony begins at 18:30 BST, and will last just under four hours. Here are some of the things to watch out for during the curtain-raiser."
• Where every sport is being held at the Paris Olympic Games - "The Olympic Games are coming to the French capital and homes have been found for all 32 sporting disciplines. In a totally unique event, the Opening Ceremony will be held along the Seine River, marking the first time that the ceremony has not taken place inside a stadium."
• French rail lines disrupted by ‘coordinated sabotage’ ahead of Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony - "Olympic Opening Ceremony to kick off on Paris’ River Seine amid rail line disruption."
• This word is the ‘key’ to being treated well in France, experts say - "If there’s one thing Parisians want tourists to know before millions of people descend on their city for the Olympics, it’s a simple, seven-letter word: 'Bonjour.'"
• Lausanne: The Swiss city that runs the Olympics - "Set dramatically among a picture-perfect lake, mountains and hillside vineyards, this unassuming city offers a unique glimpse at how the modern Games came to be."
• Omega's New Paris Olympics Watch Is an Instant Classic - "The Paris 2024 Bronze Gold Edition is a vintage-inspired timepiece in honor of the Summer Games. Omega unveiled its Paris 2024 Bronze Gold Edition watch, which honors the Olympics by using gold, silver, and bronze."
• Where To Find Paris’ Historic Literary Sites: From Hemingway To Hugo - "Paris has been a literary haven for centuries, serving as both a home and a muse for many famous writers. Here are some historic sites associated with prominent literary figures who lived and worked in Paris, along with their addresses and description."
• Drink around Europe in Ernest Hemingway’s favourite bars - "We recount 5 of Ernest Hemingway's favourite European bars. A cultural trip across the modern age."
• The world’s greatest places of 2024, according to TIME - "Make sure you’ve got enough pages in your passport, because TIME has just released its list of the world’s 100 greatest places to visit in 2024."
• WORLD'S GREATEST PLACES OF 2024 | TIME - "100 extraordinary destinations to explore." Official website.
• OpenAI is taking on Google with a new artificial intelligence search engine - "OpenAI on Thursday announced its most direct threat yet to its stalwart Big Tech rivals: a search engine that uses artificial intelligence baked in from the beginning."
• Why experts worry about the end of cash - "The CrowdStrike software meltdown proves society cannot go fully cashless just yet. A full transition to digital payments, even if the system could be shown to be robust enough to protect against technology meltdowns, viruses and hackers, would risk alienating parts of society. Some older people, for example, rely on cash and have never adopted payment cards or smartphones."
• Alien: Romulus to The Crow: 10 of the best films to watch in August - "Including Alien: Romulus, The Crow and the latest from M Night Shyamalan - this month's unmissable movies to watch and stream."
• Israel tried to frustrate US lawsuit over Pegasus spyware, leak suggests - "Officials seized documents from NSO Group to try to stop handover of information about notorious hacking tool, files suggest."
• Auto-Populate iPhone Home Screen With Your Most Used Apps - "Do you find yourself frequently scrolling through multiple Home Screen pages on your iPhone to get to the apps you access most often? If so, chances are you've already filled up the first page with some of your favorite apps. But what if you could automatically make all of your most-used apps appear on page one? With the Siri Suggestions widget, you can."

July 25, 2024

• Lady Gaga & CÉline Dion to perform duet at Paris 2024 Olympic opening ceremony - "And not any old duet. The global superstars are expected to perform Édith Piaf’s ‘La Vie en Rose’, in a show of soft French power."
• Hear Biden's full historic address on leaving 2024 race - "President Joe Biden addressed the nation from the Oval Office of the White House about his decision to drop his Democratic presidential reelection bid."
• Soaring rhetoric, thin voice - Joe Biden meets his tragic end - "The Oval Office address was a historic moment for what feels already like a historical presidency. There was no surer, sadder proof Joe Biden is not up to the task that is no longer ahead of him than the manner in which he asked the American people to take it up instead."
• Japanese restaurants say they’re not charging tourists more - they’re just charging locals less - "Kudos to you if you can speak perfect Japanese and order food at a neighborhood sushi bar in Tokyo. If you can, chances are that on your next trip to Japan, you may be able to score a better deal by blending in as a local."
• What it's like to live in the world's most liveable cities for 2024 - "After years of pandemic-induced changes, the world's cities have finally settled into a new normal, at least according to the latest liveability data. We spoke to residents of the top ranked places about what they love most about living in their cities and what keeps them most excited for the future."
• Are cold showers good for you? What the science says - "You may have seen people jumping into frigid seas or stylish ice baths, claiming these dunks are good for heart health, muscle recovery, stress and more. 'The research is very, very thin as it pertains to cold showers itself,' said Dr. Corey Simon. But experts have ideas for why cold showers might work, based on what scientific and anecdotal evidence there is, he added."
• How Fit Are You? Test Yourself to Find Out - "There are many ways to gauge how strong and healthy you are. Here are some of our favorites."
• Swiss limit tourist access in bid to bring back edelweiss - "One of Switzerland’s most stunning spots has become the latest to try to limit tourist access, in a bid to protect the environment from becoming overrun by Instagrammers. Above the famous resort of Zermatt, the Riffelsee lake is more than picture perfect. Not only can you see the iconic Matterhorn in all its glory, you can capture its reflection in the glacial waters of the lake."
• Brawn, bazookas & killer bots: Arnold Schwarzenegger’s finest films - ranked! - "In anticipation of his 77th birthday, we appraise the monolithically musclebound Austrian’s action-packed oeuvre."
• ‘It’s been a fun ride’: former Bond George Lazenby announces retirement at 84 - "The star of On Her Majesty’s Secret Service is standing down in order to spend more time with his family."
• 100 bottles of champagne found in 19th Century wreck - "When divers in the Baltic Sea first saw the wreck on the sonar, they thought it was a fishing boat. But when they went to investigate, they found a 19th Century sailing ship, 'loaded to the sides' with champagne, wine, mineral water and porcelain. They counted more than 100 bottles of champagne in the wreck, off the coast of Sweden."

July 24, 2024

• The planet saw its hottest day on record - "Sunday was the hottest day in recorded history. July 21 clocked in at 17.09 degrees Celsius, or 62.76 Fahrenheit. Despite being based on data from the mid-20th century, the temperature records represent the warmest period the planet has seen in at least 100,000 years."
• After Tokyo’s Covid Olympics, Paris has been reframed as the Conflict Games - "Any relief at moving back to normality has disappeared but at least there will be fans (and no bears) this time."
• The world’s most powerful passports for 2024 so far - "See which countries made the top 10. For the past 19 years, the Henley Passport Index, created by London-based global citizenship and residence advisory firm Henley & Partners, has been tracking global freedoms in 227 countries and territories around the world, using exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA)."
• The Best & Worst Moments From Night 4 of the Convention - "‘One of the Truly Awful and Self-Indulgent Performances of Our Time.’"
• Hillary Clinton: How Kamala Harris Can Win & Make History - "'Elections are about the future. That's why I am excited about Vice President Kamala Harris. She represents a fresh start for American politics.'"
• McDonald's has been BANNED for athletes as the Paris Olympics goes for vegetarian 'not dogs' instead - "Usain Bolt claimed he gorged on 1000 McDonald's chicken nuggets when he won Olympic gold in 2008, but today's Olympians will get none after the Paris Games banned the fast food giant as part of a health kick."
• Charlotte Dujardin out of Olympics 2024 over allegedly ‘whipping horse 24 times like circus elephant’ - "Dujardin was bidding to become Britain’s most decorated female Olympian in Paris but was filmed ‘engaging in conduct contrary to the principles of horse welfare’."
• Nomad’s Olympic Games Apple Watch Band Is Limited-Edition, So Move Fast - "Nomad has just launched another of its limited-edition products, and they sell fast. Don't say we didn't warn you."
• The godfather of competitive eating on secrets, success & physical stress: ‘I am always close to danger or death’ - "Takeru Kobayashi can eat 50 hotdogs, 41 lobster rolls or 159 tacos in 10 minutes - and it has brought him fame and a healthy income. As he returns to the fray after five years, what will he do next?"
• Anchovies Are Always a Good Idea - "This diminutive fish has been making other things taste great for millenniums. To understand anchovies, you need to understand umami. Preserved anchovies - whether salted, packed in oil or transformed into fish sauce - have extraordinarily high levels of umami."
• 5 herbs that help increase brain functioning & memory power - "Discover the ancient herbs that can supercharge your brain! These herbs can be easily integrated into your lifestyle for improved mental acuity and cognitive well-being."
• 10 Everyday Habits That Are Harming Your Longevity The Most - "Doctors share what you shouldn't be doing if you want to live a long and healthy life."
• 3 Best Yoga Mats of 2024 | Reviews by Wirecutter - "A yoga mat should be comfortable and supportive, provide sufficient grip to keep you from slipping, and be easy to clean and carry."
• A.I. Can Write Poetry, but It Struggles With Math - "A.I.’s math problem reflects how much the new technology is a break with computing’s past."
• Ranked: Average Working Hours by Country - "In this graphic, we’ve ranked OECD countries based on average working hours per year, as of 2023. It reveals a wide gap between the longest and shortest-working countries, to the tune of 864 hours (36 days)."
• Italy's "Path of Love" reopens after 12 years - "Cinque Terre's most romantic trail has been closed for 12 years, but thanks to new safety measures it's about to reopen to visitors."
• 3 Reasons Why You Should Wear A Smartwatch When You're Sleeping - "1. Sleep tracking and schedules. 2. Health monitoring. 3. Alarms and alerts."
• Why Is My iPhone Battery Draining So Fast? Here Are 8 Ways to Extend Battery Life - "Is your iPhone dying too quickly? Whether due to overuse or an aging battery, here are several ways to keep your iPhone lasting through the day. Some apps drain more of your iPhone's battery than others, and it's no surprise that the biggest offenders are those that track location, stream video or generate graphics (games, for example, especially fast-paced online ones)."
• iOS 18 Beta Cheat Sheet: An Expert's Guide to Exploring New iPhone Features - "The new iPhone update is available for public testing, but you might run into some bugs."
• Death Wish at 50: a reactionary & repugnant revenge thriller - "Michael Winner’s violent 1974 thriller demonized inner-city living and rationalised bloody revenge, a film that still acts as a telling Republican text."
• John Mayall, pioneering figure of British blues, dies aged 90 - "Influential musician, whose band the Bluesbreakers played leading role in 60s blues revival, dies at home in California."

July 23, 2024

• Recycled bottle tops & tables made from shuttlecocks - the greenest Olympics? - "The organising committee of Paris 2024 has vowed to make it the greenest Games in Olympic history, with half the carbon footprint of London 2012 and Rio 2016."
• Timeline of Summer Olympic Games that went on amid global conflict - "The 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris are unfolding against the backdrop of growing instability around the globe, as Russia pushes on with its yearslong invasion of Ukraine and the war between Israel and Hamas rages on in Gaza. Here’s a look at other times in modern Summer Olympics history where war and political unrest played out as the world’s greatest athletes took center stage, and how it impacted the Games."
• Hosting the Olympics Costs Billions. What Does a City Get Back? - "What Does a City Get Back From Hosting the Olympics? Every couple of years, when another Olympics rolls around, a familiar story is recycled: The Games are a way for host cities to fast-track infrastructure and urban-redevelopment projects. But there is surprisingly little evidence to back this story up and examples galore suggesting the reverse."
• How to eat like an Olympian: from caffeine gum to beetroot shots - "You don’t have to be sporty to benefit. Load up on leafy greens and take your tea black - you might not win any races but your body will thank you."
• How Heat Affects the Brain - "Heat's Physical Toll: High temperatures can put the body under immense stress. Effect on the Brain: While heat can have an alarming impact on our bodies, it can also impair cognition and make us irritable, impulsive and aggressive."
• Natural fibers & no heathered grey: what to wear when it’s really, really hot out - "The biggest concerns are a) maximizing comfort and b) masking sweat so one doesn’t look like a sentient pile of wet laundry."
• These Nutrients Can Strengthen Aging Bones - "'Bone loss is a natural part of getting older, but prioritizing certain foods can help slow the process down. Exercise and a nutrient-rich diet with adequate calcium, vitamin D and protein are the foundation stones for healthy bones.'"
• How often you poop could influence multiple health factors, study finds - "How often you poop may influence more than whether you’re uncomfortably bloated. The frequency may also affect your gut microbiome and risk of chronic disease, a new study has found."
• ‘It’s the best job! But it will kill you’: four restaurant critics on the battle to stay healthy - "Last week, the New York Times’s restaurant critic left his job after a worrying medical checkup. How do others keep going?"
• Louis Armstrong: The US jazz icon with a controversial legacy - "With the release of new, previously unheard live recordings from the BBC, questions remain over Louis Armstrong's complicated and controversial career and persona. More than half a century after the death of Louis Armstrong, fans and critics are still arguing over his name. Is it pronounced Lewis or Louie?"
• Glamorous 75th Red Cross Gala shines into the night - "The Principality’s most prestigious event of the season, the Red Cross Gala, dazzled attendees this Friday, July 19, at the Salle des Étoiles in Sporting Monte-Carlo."
• Meghan Markle sports outfit & accessories worth £61,795 as she visits Montecito restaurant - "The Duchess of Sussex, 42, was photographed as she left trendy Italian restaurant Tre Lune on Sunday."
• Friendship bracelet - "Decorative bracelet given by one person to another as a symbol of friendship. Friendship bracelets are often handmade, usually of embroidery floss or thread and are a type of macramé. There are various styles and patterns, but most are based on the same simple half-hitch knot. They represent a friendship that is strong and everlasting."
• British Library wanted to buy archive of double agent Kim Philby from his widow - "National Archives files show officials were troubled by idea of institution enriching widow of Cambridge Five agent."
• How to Upgrade Your Kitchen Without Actually Renovating - "You don’t have to spend a lot to remake your kitchen. Instead, try these six D.I.Y. hacks: Step No. 1: Paint the Cabinets. 2: But Don't Stop There ... 3: Change the Backsplash. 4: Swap Out the Hardware. 5: Try New Lighting. 6: Add Some Furniture."
• Now your iPhone can have a Notes app & a notepad - "Imagine answering ‘yes’ to ‘do you have a pen and paper handy?’ Moft is launching a new MagSafe accessory that adds a literal notepad and pen to the back of your iPhone."

July 22, 2024

• The 25 days that unraveled Biden’s campaign - "Age had been President Joe Biden’s biggest political weakness ever since he launched his first campaign against former President Donald Trump five years ago. But his faltering debate performance on June 27 shocked many Americans in what was their most extensive exposure to the president since the last round of debates in 2020."
• The rise & fall of Joe Biden - "Biden overcame a speech impediment, early tragedy and being constantly underestimated to become the 46th US president - but only for one term."
• Joe Biden’s political career across the decades - in pictures - "The oldest-ever American president’s political career is coming to an end as he yields to pressure to step aside. We look back at a journey that began in 1972."
• Who is the real Kamala Harris & can she beat Donald Trump? - "The California-born vice-president, and frontrunner to become the Democratic nominee for the US election, has not had an easy time at Joe Biden’s side."
• Trump tells Michigan rally he 'took a bullet for democracy' - "He also derided President Joe Biden and Vice-President Kamala Harris at the event in Grand Rapids - his first with new running mate JD Vance and the first since he survived the assassination attempt."
• What billionaire Elon Musk said after hearing Kamala Harris officially launched her campaign for president - "'Imagine 4 years of this...,' Musk quipped in posting the clip showing Harris chairing the meeting."
• Where every sport is being held at the Paris Olympic Games - "The Olympic Games are coming to the French capital and homes have been found for all 32 sporting disciplines. In a totally unique event, the Opening Ceremony will be held along the Seine River, marking the first time that the ceremony has not taken place inside a stadium."
• Watch Steve Jobs describe the future & AI a year before the Mac - "The Steve Jobs Archive has released a fascinating video of a 28-year-old Jobs explaining computers to a skeptical crowd in 1983."
• Do you want to be happier? Here are 5 habits to adopt - "If you look around at your friends and family - and even at yourself - it is apparent that some people perceive the glass to be half full, while others view it as half empty."
• How to choose the best & most eco-friendly - swimwear - "Make a splash this summer - from luxury vintage to sustainable fabrics, here's our smart guide to swimming in style."
• Why do tourists behave badly on holiday? - "Stories of travellers behaving badly seem to be on the rise. But why do people misbehave when they're on holiday?"
• A Milan Airport Is Now Named for Berlusconi. Cue the ‘Bunga-Bunga’ Memes - "The renaming of Milan Malpensa Airport as International Airport Milan Malpensa - Silvio Berlusconi has unleashed a maelstrom of protests. 'Why not Bunga-Bunga airport,' said one, in a German-language publication, referring to the sex-fueled bacchanals at Mr. Berlusconi’s villa that he described as merely 'elegant dinners.'"
• I Keep the Family Tree & I’m Flummoxed About Whom to Include - "If the shape of family trees is a matter of convention, so is your status as keeper of the family tree. Nothing stops other ancestry-minded people from keeping different trees that acknowledge different kinds of family relationships."
• Test Your Focus: Can You Spend 10 Minutes With One Painting? - "Focus Is a Skill. We’ll Help You Practice."
• The Ancient Greek Secret to Attaining Super Memory - "Science has shown that anyone can attain a super memory by using and ancient Greek and Roman technique called 'memory palace.'"
• Yes, you can get fit in front of the television. Here's how - "Watch the Olympics while you work out. Here are five exercises you can do while keeping your eyes on the screen. 'Short bursts of exercise can be as effective as a longer session,' says Lavina Mehta, a personal trainer and the author of The Feel Good Fix."
• From trash to treasure: emerald hunters in Colombia - in pictures - "Every year, hundreds of emerald hunters dig through mining debris in Las Animas River, in the foothills of the eastern Andes mountain range. Colombia is by far the world’s largest producer of the precious stones, and the mining municipality of Muzo is known as the emerald capital of the world."
• 126M LÜrssen superyacht OCTOPUS rejoins yacht charter fleet following nine-month refit - "Delivered in 2003, Lürssen charter yacht OCTOPUS is among the most expensive charter yachts on the market with a 13-cabin layout for up to 12 sleeping charter guests and a dedicated crew of 45." 37 photos.

July 21, 2024

• Biden drops out, endorses Harris - "Biden drops out of presidential race and endorses Harris to be nominee."
• Tour de France 2024: Stage 21 - "Sunday 21 July: Monaco to Nice individual time trial, 33.7km." A first-ever finish outside Paris, due to the Olympics starting later that week. The Tour hasn’t ended in a time trial since the LeMond-Fignon epic of 1989; if the top of the standings is tight, this could be equally memorable but usually by now the race is nailed down. It’s far from flat, and very technical, which suggests Pogacar or Vingegaard rather than Evenepoel for the win, but on day 21 it’s largely a matter of who has anything left in the tank.
• Where to watch final stage of Tour de France in Monaco - "Monaco is set to host the final stage of the 111th Tour de France on Sunday, July 21. This marks the 12th time Monaco has hosted the Grande Boucle and the 7th time it has served as a stage town. The 21st and concluding stage is an individual time trial starting in Monaco and finishing in Nice, which could be decisive for the overall victory. Riders will set off from Port Hercule, navigating through the streets of Monaco towards Beausoleil. The 34 km stage features two significant climbs: La Turbie (8.1 km at an average gradient of 5.6 percent) and Col d’Eze (1.6 km at 8.1 percent), before descending towards Nice via Villefranche-sur-Mer."
• The super-rich are paying $15,000 an hour to party on an airplane - "The Dubai party jet for hire for $15,000 an hour. A lot of habits picked up in the pandemic era have stuck around."
• How to Tell If Someone Is Actually Rich - "1. No flash. Rich people don't flash their wealth for one simple reason: They don't think about it. 2. Experience. We all know the old adage that 'time is money' is actually the inverse - money is time. 3. Absence of brands. 4. Price awareness. 5. Lack of luggage."
• What is ‘mogul style’? Why billionaire bland has had its day - "It’s not that the outfits are necessarily bad, although many of them are. Have we lost something in the transition away from the coat-and-tie?"
• Kate Hudson says she could ‘smell’ Matthew McConaughey ‘from a mile’ - "Years ago, Matthew McConaughey shared that while he and Kate Hudson were filming 'Fool’s Gold' in 2008, she made a hygienic request of him."
• Marathon-winning ‘spray-on’ running shoes could shake up Olympics - "Swiss sportswear brand On is the latest company to embrace advanced 'spray-on' materials with a 'revolutionary' robot-made sneaker it believes can improve performance at this month’s Olympics."
• 5 tips to make the most of your new MacBook - "Do these things first to make your MacBook your own: 1. Set up Touch ID. 2. Lay down Widgets. 3. Customize Hot Corners. 4. Fine-tune your trackpad. 5. Tailor your Dock."
• The World’s Best Pinot Noir According To The Decanter World Wine Awards - "Six Pinot Noir wines won Platinum medals at the 2024 Decanter World Wine Awards (DWWA). The competition is the largest wine competition in the world and is considered among the most prestigious. Over 18,000 wines were entered."

July 20, 2024

• Tour de France 2024: Stage 20 - "Saturday 20 July: Nice to Col de la Couillole, 133km." Shorter than the day before, but even more vertical metres of climbing. By now most of the questions should have answers: can Pogacar hang on to the form that won him the Giro, can Evenepoel find some climbing legs in his first Tour, have Roglic and Vingegaard recovered from their horrific crash in April, and is Egan Bernal anywhere near his old self? As on Friday, this is a day for the overall contenders in a totally unique final weekend to the Tour.
• How the world's tech crashed all at once - "A software update from a single cybersecurity company, US-based CrowdStrike, was the root cause of the chaos, underlining the fragility of the global economy and its dependence on computer systems to which relatively few people give a passing thought."
• What is CrowdStrike, the company linked to the global outage? - "CrowdStrike's cybersecurity software - used by numerous Fortune 500 companies, including major global banks, healthcare and energy companies - detects and blocks hacking threats. Like other cybersecurity products, the software requires deep-level access to a computer's operating system to scan for those threats."
• A confusing portrait of Trump rally shooter emerges - "After conducting more than 200 interviews and combing through his phone and internet search history, federal investigators have pieced together an early portrait of the man who sought to assassinate former President Donald Trump: Thomas Matthew Crooks was an intelligent, unassuming loner, who expressed an interest in guns and was far from outspoken about politics."
• Why your Mediterranean beach vacation might be bad for your health - "The Mediterranean Sea may evoke images of luxurious beach holidays, scrumptious seafood meals and endless sandy beaches, but this body of water is increasingly toxic. More than 87% of the Mediterranean Sea, which extends from the Atlantic Ocean to Africa, Europe and Asia, is polluted with microplastics and other pollutants including toxic metals and industrial chemicals, according to a July 2024 report by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)."
• Ice baths & bone broth: inside the hot new members' club - "Remedy Place in New York is the hip place for date night. But it won’t serve you a cocktail. Instead, there are cold plunges, intravenous infusions and lymphatic drainage. Could it catch on over here? Will Pavia books in."
• Novo Nordisk obesity feast no longer a free lunch - "Novo Nordisk (NOVOb.CO), opens new tab is going to have to work hard to justify its bulging valuation. The $603 billion obesity drug maker’s shares have more than trebled since 2021 thanks to insatiable appetite for its weight-loss drug. But with rivals like Pfizer (PFE.N), opens new tab and Roche (ROG.S), opens new tab working on their own breakthroughs there’s little room for error."
• The Best Value Champagnes for 2024 - "Often associated with the finer things in life, these 10 Champagnes prove you can have all that without straying into ruin."
• The world’s tallest hotel is set to be completed this year - "Meet Yahya Jan, the architect building the world’s tallest hotel, Dubai’s Ciel Tower. Due for completion by the end of 2024, the Ciel Dubai Marina, colloquially called Ciel Tower, will have more than 1,000 rooms and suites spread over 82 floors - and at around 1,200 feet (365 meters) high, it is set to become the world’s tallest hotel."
• 5 ChatGPT Prompts To Improve Your Writing (With Instant Results) - "Writing is a valuable skill, but getting good takes intentionality. Learn, then practice. Repeat. ChatGPT can help (with the right prompts, of course). Compelling copy will propel your business to new heights when customers connect with your sales pages, resonate with your emails, and believe your social media posts really get them. Don’t miss the chance to make connections with your words. Get good at this today."
• For a Strong Body, You Need Strong Feet - "These three simple tests could save you a lot of pain in the long run. Why foot strength is important. In some ways, simply moving through life on your feet gives them a workout, said Martin Ellman, a podiatrist at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. You engage the foot core - a network of tiny muscles in your feet that create balance and provide stability - every time you stand or walk."
• An Index of Everything (& Everyone) Mentioned in Barbra Streisand’s Memoir - "It only took Barbra Streisand six years to complete her EGOT, but it took her more than 20 to pen My Name is Barbra, her recently-released memoir from Viking Press. And if two decades sounds like a long time, you must not have picked up your copy yet. Clocking in at 966 pages - 48 hours and 14 minutes if you’re listening to the read-by-Babs audiobook - the tome spans the singularly prolific artist’s 81 years on earth."
• 7 Tricks to Spot Hidden Cameras in Your Next Airbnb - "Cams really may hide in Airbnb bedrooms, but there are cheap and effective ways to sniff them out: 1. Check out the local Wi-Fi network. Most Airbnbs offer some kind of guest Wi-Fi. 2. Bring up your Bluetooth. If cameras aren't connected to Wi-Fi, you can still pick them up with your Bluetooth. 3. Do a pass with a flashlight. 4. Scan for infrared eyes. 5. Use a camera-spotting app. 6. Inspect the vents. 7. Bring out an infrared scanner."
• The 3 Best Automatic Espresso Machines for 2024 - "For when you want a coffee shop-level drink, without the work to get it."
• The 5 Best Nespresso Machines for 2024, According to Our Tests - "Sleek machines. Consistent quality. Easier mornings."

July 19, 2024

• Tour de France 2024: Stage 19 - "Friday 19 July: Embrun to Isola 2000, 145km." An early green jersey sprint is the last time we will see the sprinters in action, and after that it’s a climber’s day. The Col de Vars is a brute, but the Bonette is in a class of its own, the highest ascent the Tour tackles. Some will recall Robert Millar’s gutsy escape over that monster in 1993; as on that day, the chances of a break getting to the finish are minimal as the overall battle will take centre stage.
• Trump closes RNC with lengthy speech - "Trump formally accepts GOP nomination at RNC."
• 'I had God on my side': Trump speaks about assassination attempt - for first & last time - "'There was blood pouring everywhere, and yet, in a certain way I felt very safe because I had God on my side. "The amazing thing is that prior to the shot, if I had not moved my head at the very last instant, the assassin's bullet would have perfectly hit its mark, and I would not be here tonight.'"
• Fact check: Trump makes more than 20 false claims in RNC acceptance speech - "Former President Donald Trump accepted the Republican presidential nomination on Thursday with the most dishonest speech of the four-day Republican National Convention, making more than 20 false claims by CNN’s count."
• Trump fans wear bandages on ears to show support - in pictures - "Some people plastered over ears at Republic national convention, in solidarity with Trump after assassination attempt."
• Inside the ‘doom loop’ of Joe Biden’s campaign - "Multiple leading Democrats tell CNN they feel caught in what one described as a 'doom loop,' with every move to keep President Joe Biden in or push him out further destroying their chances against Donald Trump."
• Widespread technology outage disrupts flights, banks, media outlets & companies around the world - "A global technology outage grounded flights, knocked banks offline and media outlets off air on Friday in a massive disruption that affected companies and services around the world and highlighted dependence on software from a handful of providers."
• Objects of Our Life - "Steve’s talk at the 1983 International Design Conference in Aspen. Exclusive video footage of Steve Jobs talking about his design vision and philosophy and how design worked at Apple."
• Floating hotel’s maiden voyage will be from Monaco - "The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection welcomes its second ultra-luxury superyacht, Ilma, to its fleet after a two-year construction period. With a length of 790ft and 224 suites, each featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and private terraces, Ilma sets new standards for luxury and guest experience. The yacht will make its maiden voyage from Monaco on September 2 with a crew to guest ratio of almost one-to-one."
• 8 Eating Habits That Actually Improve Your Sleep - "About 1 in 3 Americans say they’re sleep deprived, and these deficits are linked to serious illnesses like heart disease, stroke, diabetes, cancer, and depression. Certain patterns of eating could lead to more nightly rest, translating into healthier, more satisfying lives. Good sleep also stabilizes the body’s hunger hormones for less impulsive snacking the next day."
• Grains High In Protein: 7 Types to Try - "Whole grains are a healthy source of carbohydrates and contain critical nutrients like B vitamins, iron, and even plant-based protein. Grains certainly won’t make up the bulk of your protein intake, but high quality starches can contribute to your daily protein goal. Here are seven grains that can add a surprising amount of plant-based protein to your plate."
• In Extreme Heat, Do You Need More Electrolytes? - "We asked experts when you need to replenish these essential minerals, and how best to do so."
• The Eruption of Mt. Vesuvius Wasn't Pompeii's Only Killer - "While the volcano’s eruption was deadly, research shows that many people in the ancient Roman city died in building collapses from the earthquake associated with the outburst."
• How to buy a Rolex, according to the experts - "A no-fuss guide to getting your hands on your ultimate grail watch."
• 5 ChatGPT Prompts To Start A Successful Business - "Start a business with these ChatGPT prompts: set up for success. Find a profitable niche that fits with your skills, and craft that winning offer that will be irresistible to customers."
• Should you keep your MacBook plugged in when you're using it? - "You can use your laptop while plugged in and not worry about whether it's at or above 80 percent. Just make sure you didn't change a default setting at  > System Settings > Battery > Options: Optimized Battery Charging should be turned on. Make sure you're using optimized battery charging for best battery health."
• Nice & easy: a leisurely cycle, with dog, along the final stage of the Tour de France - "The riders won’t have time to take in the beauty of Nice’s Promenade des Anglais, but they’re missing two centuries of seaside architectural treasures."
• Tourist Attractions That Disappointed Me Most After Seeing 40 countries - "These are 6 of the most overrated tourist attractions I've ever seen."
• 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."
• The 9 Best Gin Cocktails to Drink This Summer - "From the Eastside Rickey to the French 75, we've got you covered."

July 18, 2024

• Tour de France 2024: Stage 18 - "Thursday 18 July: Gap to Barcelonnette, 180km." A last chance for a breakaway before the overall battle takes centre stage, although the continual ups and downs over five third category climbs mean that this stage might just interest a sprinter who can climb a bit, particularly if the green jersey is still up for grabs. If Pedersen or De Lie is feeling good, their Lidl-Trek and Lotto-Dstny teams could try to keep a lid on this one, but good luck with that given the terrain.
• Costumed & colourful: 2024 Tour de France fans - in pictures - "As the cycling race approaches its climax in Nice, fans continue to line the roadsides of its 3,492km route."
• Takeaways from the third night of the Republican National Convention - "Two days after being tapped as Donald Trump’s running mate, Ohio Sen. JD Vance introduced himself to voters in a speech that highlighted the populist direction the two aim to take the Republican Party - and the nation."
• President Joe Biden tests positive for Covid-19 at pivotal moment in reelection campaign - "Biden, 81, was experiencing mild symptoms and has received his first dose of the antiviral drug Paxlovid, according to his doctor."
• Ivanka Trump said she was done with politics - but is the Maga Princess plotting a return? - "The former first daughter has spent the past few years distancing herself from Donald. Now she’s voicing fond memories of working in the White House."
• Emmys 2024: List of Nominees - "'Shogun' leads the nominations, which were unveiled Wednesday morning. Other top nominees include 'The Bear,' 'Only Murders in the Building,' 'True Detective: Night Country' and 'The Crown.'"
• What's it like to live in the world's 'smartest cities' for 2024 - "Smart City Index offers a balanced focus on economic and technological aspects of smart cities on the one hand, and 'humane dimensions' of smart cities (quality of life, environment, and inclusiveness) on the other."
• Ranked: Average Annual Salaries by Country - "There are many reasons for why salaries vary between countries: economic development, cost of living, labor laws, and a variety of other factors. Because of these variables, it can be difficult to gauge the general level of income around the world. With this in mind, we’ve visualized the average annual salaries of 30 OECD countries, adjusted for purchasing power parity (PPP). This means that the values listed have taken into account the differences in cost of living and inflation between countries."
• The power of proprioception: how to improve your ‘sixth sense’ & become healthier & happier - "It is our physical sense of where we are in space and is essential to our quality of life as we age. Here are simple, everyday ways to test and train it."
• Why You Don’t Need to Exercise Every Day - "Why Rest Days Are Important for Your Fitness Routine. Scheduling time to recover can help you avoid injury and enhance performance."
• Dinosaur skeleton fetches record $44.6m at auction - "The plant-eating stegosaurus - nicknamed Apex - is 11ft (3.4m) tall and 27ft long from nose to tail, and 'ranks high among the most complete skeletons ever found', Sotheby's said."
• Apple is finally ready to unleash the full potential of the iPhone, iPad, & Mac - "Apple Intelligence could put power back in the hands of users."
• Eyes Wide Shut: The remarkable afterlife of a notorious 1990s misfire - "Starring Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman, Stanley Kubrick's final film was poorly received on its release in the summer of 1999. But 25 years on, it's been reappraised as a masterpiece and endlessly theorised over."
• A pastry chef's favourite bakeries in Paris - "David Lebovitz shares his ultimate guide to the best bakeries in Paris right now, from croissants at Tout Autour Du Pain to babka at Mamiche."

July 17, 2024

• Tour de France 2024: Stage 17 - "Wednesday 17 July: Saint-Paul-Trois-Châteaux to Superdévoluy, 178km." A “transition” stage, to get the riders into the Alps for the final showdown which should be a good chance for the all-rounders to get in a break and contest the finish, so the early kilometres will be intense. Stage hunters such as Magnus Cort, Ben Healy, Pello Bilbao or Simon Yates will fancy this one. With a very demanding final weekend on the horizon, the favourites will watch and wait.
• Takeaways from the second night of the Republican National Convention - "Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, in her speech to the Republican National Convention on Tuesday, cheered America’s 'incredible ability to self-correct.' Haley, so recently a political rival and fierce critic of former President Donald Trump, might have been talking about herself."
• Elon Musk is going all-in on Donald Trump - "Musk is now publicly endorsing Trump’s presidential reelection bid. And the Wall Street Journal, citing people familiar with the matter, reported Monday that Musk is now planning on supporting Trump’s presidential campaign by committing $45 million a month to a new super PAC backing the former president."
• Covid-19’s back. Should you be worried? - "Covid-19 levels have been rising in the United States again."
• The Key to Longevity Is Boring - "'The other day, someone at my gym approached me and lamented that he could spend nearly every waking hour of his life executing the countless viral health and longevity recommendations popularized by internet influencers and podcast hosts, and he’d still feel that he is falling behind.'"
• Paris mayor swims in Seine as river is cleaned up just in time for Olympics - "Anne Hidalgo fulfils pledge after cleanup operation makes water quality safe enough to host events at Games."
• These Olympic uniforms have gone viral - "‘They just won the Olympics’: Internet goes wild for Mongolia’s Paris 2024 outfits. Move over Lululemon, Berluti and Ralph Lauren. The internet has chosen its new favorite national uniform at the forthcoming Paris 2024 Olympics: Mongolia’s."
• Asia’s 50 best bars for 2024 have been announced. A newcomer has earned the top spot - "Bar Leone - an Italian cocktail spot in central Hong Kong - has been crowned the best bar in Asia. It’s an impressive achievement, considering the venue has only been open for about a year."
• Futuristic designs unveiled for ‘world’s greenest highway’ - "Not content with Dubai having the tallest building, the deepest pool or the highest hotel, urban design firm URB hopes to add one more superlative feather to the city’s cap: the world’s 'greenest' highway."
• I Ate at Bistro Owned by Europe's Richest Man - "I ate at the Paris bistro that's now owned by the richest man in Europe. It has many critics, but one dish won me over. I dined at the Chez L'Ami Louis in Paris, which was just bought by the richest man in Europe. The bistro's famous $130 roast chicken was incredible, and the portion was large."
• 10 Best Things to See, Do & Eat in Copenhagen - "Denmark’s capital of cool is a haven for art, architecture, cuisine, and outdoor adventure - and a model for sustainable tourism. Here’s how best to enjoy all this Scandinavian city has to offer."
• 11 Trips in Europe Everyone Should Add to Their Bucket List - " From embracing slow travel in stunning Northern Italian villas to Greek island hopping in the Aegean, from embarking on a top-to-bottom roadtrip through Norway to taking the scenic route from Istanbul to Paris in the plush cars of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, these are the European destinations our well-traveled team have put at the top of their bucket lists."
• A Look Inside Louis Vuitton's Family Home & Atelier, Just Outside Paris - "At the French fashion house's workshop, meticulous craftsmanship is a way of life. In the mid to late 19th century, Asnières-sur-Seine's streets, lined with elegant brick villas, became a charming refuge from city life for the burgeoning middle class. This was the appeal for a trunk maker named Louis Vuitton, who built a workshop here in 1859. From this base, Vuitton, who became the official packer and box maker for Empress Eugénie de Montijo, wife of Napoleon III, established his leather-goods empire - helped by the advent of train travel and his ingenious courier trunks."
• Phone mirroring on the Mac might change how you use your phone - "Instead of a separate device, your iPhone is now just an app on your Mac. There’s a lot left to finish and fix, but it’s a really cool start."
• 10 BEST STATIONERY PRODUCTS TO ASSIST YOU IN YOUR ART & DESIGN PROJECTS - "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. It’s imperative to have a collection that really lets you work easily, efficiently, and effectively."
• how to make dirty socks white again - "A young Australian woman has revealed exactly how to make white socks white again after testing out a viral cleaning hack for herself."

July 16, 2024

• Tour de France 2024: Stage 16 - "Tuesday 16 July: Gruissan to Nîmes, 189km." The final sprint stage on a generally flat route. “Les grosses cuisses” won’t want to let this one go, although if the wind blows, the race could split apart as it has done in the past here. That could suit the big Dane Mads Pedersen or the diminutive Frenchman Bryan Coquard, either of whom could have an interest in the green jersey of points winner, given the number of stages where the pure sprinters will struggle to score.
• Trump appears at RNC with VP pick JD Vance after assassination attempt - "Takeaways from the first day of the Republican National Convention."
• Republican national convention: day one - in pictures - "Delegates from across the country are in Milwaukee to formally nominate Donald Trump as the Republican presidential candidate."
• 27 Facts About J.D. Vance, Trump's Pick for V.P. - "Mr. Vance spilled scores of details about his life in his coming-of-age memoir. We’ve collected the highlights."
• What the Trump rally gunman did before the attack - "A shooting range, a gun store, and a ladder purchase: Tracking the Trump rally gunman’s movements leading up to his attack."
• Climate crisis is making days longer, study finds - "Melting of ice is slowing planet’s rotation and could disrupt internet traffic, financial transactions and GPS. The climate crisis is causing the length of each day to get longer, analysis shows, as the mass melting of polar ice reshapes the planet. The phenomenon is a striking demonstration of how humanity's actions are transforming the Earth, scientists said, rivalling natural processes that have existed for billions of years."
• What Does It Mean to Dress Like a Zillennial? - "Our fashion critic offers advice to a young-adult reader struggling to maintain a sense of style during a transitional period of life."
• Is This the Craziest Sneaker You Have Ever Seen? - "On and Hellen Obiri are taking the running-shoe game to a whole new level. Yes, spray-on shoes are happening."
• The Best & Worst Habits for Your Teeth - "Dentists talk charcoal toothpastes, flavored coffees, post-meal water rinses and more. The secret to healthy teeth and gums isn't much of a secret: Brush twice a day, floss once a day and visit a dentist regularly for cleanings."
• Revealed: the UK's 50 best beaches - "We’ve travelled 5,583 miles, visited 543 beaches and sampled 17 chip suppers to discover the nation’s superior stretches of sand for this year’s regional guide."
• What China’s ancient emperors & their families really ate while living inside the Forbidden City - "Tiger testicles and mythical banquets: What China’s emperors inside Beijing’s secretive Forbidden City really ate."
• An Iconic iPhone Travel Accessory is Better Than Ever - "You thought iPhone battery cases were a thing of the past? Not so fast. The dedicated iPhone battery case - a protective sheath with a built-in battery - was once among the most beloved and popular smartphone accessories around ... but it seemingly died a few years back."
• A Complete History of the Cartier Tortue - "Conceived well before the Tank, this compelling Cartier watch named after the tortoise it resembles is only just beginning to receive due attention."

July 15, 2024

• How the assassination attempt on Trump unfolded - "Minute-by-minute: Visual timeline of the Trump assassination attempt."
• India’s wedding of the year is over. Here's what happened - "Prime minister Modi’s blessing and a Kardashian cameo - here’s what happened at India’s wedding of the year."
• Copenhagen offers tourist rewards as other EU nations clamp down - "The Danish capital hopes to lure climate-friendly and well-behaved travellers with perks such as free drinks and skiing."
• Here's how Apple Intelligence will improve your writing in iOS 18 - "Analyze and summarize text. Finally, Apple Intelligence can also analyze your text and draw out key points. Apple's writing tools include two available buttons - Summary and Key Points - that will help you hone in on what the text is all about."
• 5 ChatGPT Prompts To Create 30 Pieces Of Content In 30 Minutes - "Tell ChatGPT what you are and what you’re here to do. Without this, the content will be generic and vague. And no one wants that. Include details of your business, your dream customer and how you transform their world. Let ChatGPT into the inner workings of their mind so it’s on the same page. Don’t skip this essential step for content creation that fits the bill."
• 215+ ChatGPT Prompts & How to Write your Own - "Here in this guide, we are going to cover everything about ChatGPT prompts. Starting from a step-by-step guide on effective prompting strategies to a complete list of ChatGPT prompts for various use cases."
• 7 Words That Suggest a Text Was Written With AI - "Scientists analyzed millions of texts from before and after the ChatGPT era to see which words were hallmarks of AI writing. What are the telltale signs of AI writing? 1. Delves 2. Showcasing 3. Underscores 4. Comprehensive 5. Crucial 6. Intricate 7. Pivotal."
• How to Score a First-class Seat This Summer, According to Flight Attendants - "Nabbing a first-class upgrade might be easier than you think."
• Shannen Doherty - a life in pictures - "Best known for her roles in Beverly Hills, 90210, Heathers and Charmed, the former child star has died aged 53. We look back at some of her key roles"
• Ruth Westheimer obituary - "American therapist, author and broadcaster known as Dr Ruth who talked openly about sex on her radio and TV shows."
• The Bloomsbury Group: Britain's most stunning bohemian gardens - "An exhibition at London's Garden Museum reveals the vital role nature played in the lives and work of Britain's radical creative collective, the Bloomsbury Group."
• Jimmy’z Monte-Carlo celebrates 50 years of glamour & parties - "Founded in 1971, Jimmy’z quickly became a magnet for the international jet-set. Originally located at the site of the current Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort, it moved to the Sporting Monte-Carlo complex in 1974."

July 14, 2024

• Tour de France 2024: Stage 15 - "Sunday 14 July: Loudenvielle to Plateau de Beille, 198km." More Pyrenean nastiness; anyone who is struggling will dread the start straight up the Col de Peyresourde. Three early first category climbs soften the legs, the Col d’Agnès will create an initial selection before a climax up the 15km “Plateau of the Bees”. It’s Bastille Day, so the French climbers will be buzzing: a final flourish for Romain Bardet or Warren Barguil, perhaps, or a breakthrough for Romain Grégoire or Lenny Martinez. More likely, a foreigner will win.
• In pictures: Trump injured in shooting at Pennsylvania rally - "Former President Donald Trump was injured Saturday after a shooting at his campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Blood is seen on Trump's right ear as he is helped off the stage."
• Witness at Trump rally claims he saw purported shooter on nearby rooftop - "CNN's Anderson Cooper and John Miller discuss an interview with a witness who was at former President Donald Trump's rally in Pennsylvania."
• FBI identifies Trump rally shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks - "The FBI has identified Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the subject involved in the assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump on July 13, in Butler, Pennsylvania."
• Donald Trump & America’s dark history of presidential assassinations - "From Kennedy to Reagan, Lincoln to Roosevelt, the fate of the republic has long been dictated by gunmen, writes an Oxford professor of US political history."
• Who is the Hamas military chief Mohammed Deif? - "Mohammed Deif is the head of the military wing of Hamas and one of the masterminds of the group's bloody surprise attack on 7 October which triggered the latest war in Gaza."
• Films, fashion, law, politics: George & Amal Clooney’s growing global reach - "While George is busy urging Biden to bow out of the presidential race, Amal has Netanyahu firmly in her sights."
• Nicole Brown Simpson’s sisters hope film sheds light on domestic violence - "New documentary tells story of woman emotionally and physically abused by husband OJ Simpson, who was acquitted of her murder."
• Cindy Crawford Is Here to Stay - "Three decades ago she invented the modern playbook by which the current generation of professionally beautiful people flourish."
• 33 wine questions you were embaressed to ask - answered - "How can you tell if wine is corked? Why is rosé pink? How much is a decent bottle these days? And if I bring a nice bottle to a party, how do I make sure I get some of it? Our expert, Will Lyons, knows."
• Paramedics Share One Tip That May Save Your Life - "Every second counts, experts say: Step one: Write down your details. Step two: Keep the sheets somewhere that's easy to find."
• What happened when Norway banned smartphones in schools? - "As Eton and the Italians promise their own bans, we visit Oslo to see how it works - and how pupils try to cheat."
• The car that can power your home for days & cut your bills - "Drivers could soon be using their electric vehicles’ batteries to power domestic appliances, lowering energy costs. Nissan, Hyundai, Volkswagen and Volvo have all previously tested bi-directional charging, where drivers can not only top up their car using home mains power but also use the energy stored in the battery to run appliances."
• I Didn't Realize How Car Sick My Phone Made Me Until I Enabled This iOS 18 Feature - "Apple's new accessibility feature, Vehicle Motion Cues, helps reduce motion sickness while using iPhone in a moving vehicle. Vehicle Motion Cues displays dots on the screen that shift with the vehicle's movement, reducing the chances that motion sickness will be triggered."
• Apple now makes it easier to switch from Google Photos to iCloud Photos - "Apple and Google have teamed up to introduce a new data portability tool that lets users transfer their Google Photos collections straight to iCloud Photos. This follows the launch of a tool that lets you transfer iCloud Photos to Google Photos back in 2021."

July 13, 2024

• Tour de France 2024: Stage 14 - "Saturday 13 July: Pau to Saint-Lary-Soulan/Pla d’Adet, 152km." The Tour returns to this legendary finish for the 50th anniversary of Raymond Poulidor’s improbable win ahead of Eddy Merckx. With two “super-category” climbs, it’s a good day for someone to stake a firm claim on the polka-dot King of the Mountains jersey. A large break of riders outside the circle of favourites should contest the stage; the 10km finish climb will suit Vingegaard - if he has regained anything like his old form - or the young Spaniard Carlos Rodríguez.
• This European City Has the Highest Quality of Life in the World for Climate, Safety & Health Care - "As of the mid-year 2024 review, The Hague (Den Haag), a city located near the North Sea in the Netherlands, is at the top of the list. And it's a position it's held for more than a year. As the findings show, The Hague scored an overall 223.8, with its highest marks in climate, health care, and safety."
• Charted: The World's Top 100 Universities, by Country - "We breakdown which countries host the most top 100 universities in the world, as per the World University Rankings 2024, sourced from Times Higher Education. The ranking measures 1,906 universities across 108 countries on 18 performance indicators across broad pillars like teaching, research environment, research quality, industry, and international outlook."
• Rare, nearly complete fossilized stegosaurus skeleton set to be auctioned by Sotheby's in New York - "The nearly complete fossilized remains of a 161-million-year-old stegosaurus discovered in Colorado in 2022 will be auctioned by Sotheby's in New York next week, auction house officials said."
• Judge dismisses charges against Alec Baldwin after defense alleges government misconduct - "The involuntary manslaughter case against actor Alec Baldwin was dismissed in dramatic fashion on Friday after the judge overseeing the case ruled prosecutors did not properly turn over evidence to the defense."
• Meta lifts restrictions on Trump’s Facebook & Instagram accounts - "‘Guardrails’ that previously existed removed as Meta says voters should be able to hear from presidential nominees."
• 'Rat' George Clooney hit with savage nine-word warning from Donald Trump - "Donald Trump had a strong warning for George Clooney as he urged him to stay out of politics."
• Indian billionaire heir Anant Ambani weds at lavish, star-studded ceremony - "After seven months of extravagant pre-wedding celebrations, Anant Ambani, the son of India’s richest man, completed his long-awaited marriage to pharmaceutical heiress Radhika Merchant before thousands of guests on Friday."
• Ambani wedding: guests from Bollywood stars to global statesmen attend lavish event - in pictures - "Guests arrive at the extravagant wedding of power couple Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant."
• Who Is Bill Gates' Girlfriend? All About Paula Hurd - "News of their relationship came roughly two years after Gates and his ex-wife, Melinda French Gates, announced their divorce."
• Five doctors on the supplements they swear by, from Vitamin D to lion’s mane - "Which vitamins does a GP specialising in hormones take to help her mood? And what does a medic reach for when someone they live with has a cold?"
• How Heat Affects the Brain - "High temperatures can make us miserable. Research shows they also make us aggressive, impulsive and dull. High temperatures can have an alarming effect on our bodies, raising the risk for heart attacks, heatstroke and death, particularly among older adults and people with chronic diseases. But heat also takes a toll on our brains, impairing cognition and making us irritable, impulsive and aggressive."
• BP-owned company is selling carbon credits on trees that aren’t in danger, analysis finds - "Satellite analysis looked at credits sold by Finite Carbon, which runs some of North America’s largest offset projects."
• Apple Issues New Spyware Attack Warning To iPhone Users - "Apple has issued a new spyware attack warning to users in 98 countries. It's the second time the iPhone maker has released an alert of this nature over the last few months. Apple issued a similar spyware alert back in April when it warned iPhone users in 92 countries they had been targeted in attacks."
• Scientists Identify a Speech Trait That Foreshadows Cognitive Decline - "Can you pass me the whatchamacallit? It's right over there next to the thingamajig. Many of us will experience 'lethologica', or difficulty finding words, in everyday life. And it usually becomes more prominent with age."
• How a 'boring' Arctic town became Europe's Capital of Culture - "Set in an otherworldly landscape surrounded by glaciers, forests and lakes, this once-sleepy town has transformed into the ultimate gateway to the great outdoors."
• LVMH Has Already Won Gold at the Paris Olympics - "LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE has spent €150 million ($163 million) to be one of the premium sponsors of the Olympic and Paralympic Games. With top-end demand in the doldrums, Bernard Arnault is sponsoring what amounts to the first luxury games."
• Multicultural final of Euro 2024 stands against murky history of Berlin stage - "Olympiastadion was built on Adolf Hitler’s orders but remains as part of pledge to confront Germany’s history."
• James Bond Collection - "Shop James Bond shirts and ties from Turnbull & Asser. Inspired by the original pieces created for Dr. No, Casino Royale, Die Another Day and more, recreated using authentic records from the archive."
• The Chrysler Building, the Jewel of the Manhattan Skyline, Loses Its Luster - "Is the building’s reputation enough for it to endure as an icon, even as its ownership and interior crumble?"

July 12, 2024

• Tour de France 2024: Stage 13 - "Friday 12 July: Agen to Pau, 165.5km." The 75th time the Tour has visited the “belvedere of the Pyrenees.” After this there is only one sprint stage left, so the pressure will be on those fast men left in the race, particularly if they have missed out so far. There are a couple of climbs in the finale which will could catch out anyone who is struggling, but this will be another day for Philipsen, Jakobsen, Groenewegen et al.
• Joe Biden fumbles his make-or-break moment - "Biden stressed that the 'UAW endorsed me, but go ahead', referring to the United Auto Workers. He then mixed up Harris and Trump, saying, 'I wouldn't have picked vice-president Trump to be vice-president if she wasn't qualified'. Biden did not immediately correct himself."
• What a Linguist Hears When Biden Speaks - "In his interview last week with George Stephanopoulos, Biden repeatedly used verbless chunks in the place of sentences, with utterances such as 'No indication of any serious condition,' 'Nobody’s fault, mine' and 'Large crowds, overwhelming response, no slipping.'"
• Obama, Pelosi privately expressed concerns over Biden - "Barack Obama and Nancy Pelosi have spoken privately about Joe Biden and the future of his 2024 campaign. Both the former president and ex-speaker expressed concerns about how much harder they think it’s become for the president to beat Donald Trump. Neither is quite sure what to do."
• 'Hard to imagine' Biden serving full term, says Michael Douglas - "Actor Michael Douglas has said it would be "hard to imagine" President Biden serving his full term as president if he is re-elected. Mr Douglas, who has previously fundraised for the president, said he was disappointed at his 'inability' to 'challenge all the lies' of Donald Trump during the first debate."
• Shelley Duvall - a life in pictures - "Best known for her roles in The Shining, Annie Hall and Nashville, the actor has died aged 75. We look back at some of her key roles."
• If King Charles is fist bumping all over the place, should we be doing it too? - "The gesture has become racially complicated over the years, sending white progressives into flurries of awkwardness."
• Iceland's First Lady takes you on a tour of her super chill nation - "Eliza Reid moved to Iceland 20 years ago for love and now she's the First Lady. Here are her favourite ways to enjoy a 'chill' Icelandic weekend, from public pools to Icelandic literature."
• What it’s like to go to summer camp in North Korea - "Russian teen shares his experience at North Korea summer camp."
• Heatwave tourism in Death Valley - in pictures - "Hundreds of Europeans touring the American west and adventurers from around the US are being drawn to Death Valley national park, even though the desolate region known as one of Earth’s hottest places is being punished by a dangerous heatwave, which was blamed for a motorcyclist’s recent death."
• Titanic mission to map wreck in greatest-ever detail - "A team of imaging experts, scientists and historians will set sail for the Titanic on Friday to gather the most detailed photographic record ever made of the wreck."
• 25 UNESCO World Heritage Sites to Add to Your Architecture Bucket List - "Consider this your cheat sheet to the UNESCO World Heritage List."
• Every Mercedes SL, Ranked - "Mercedes-Benz's SL-Class has always been a car for the discerning and powerful, or those that aspire to be so. There’s a reason that the SL has been ride of choice for the discerning for nearly 70 years."

July 11, 2024

• Tour de France 2024: Stage 12 - "Thursday 11 July: Aurillac to Villeneuve-sur-Lot, 204km." Over “heavy” terrain where it will be hard for a team to organise a chase, this should offer a classic battle between the breakaway and the sprinters’ teams; the last two finishes here went the way of the break. The lumpy profile will suit a Tour newbie: such as 22-year-old Belgian Arnaud de Lie. “The bull” comes from the Ardennes, can get over a climb, and has won classics such as the GP de Québec and the Tro-Bro Léon.
• Rouen Cathedral fire: ANOTHER French landmark ablaze - "Terrifying footage shows the gothic building on fire as thick plumes of black smoke fly into the sky."
• American tourists are outraged at the tap water situation in Europe. What’s really going on? - "Americans on TikTok are outraged about European tap water. Here’s what’s really going on."
• The marathon Indian wedding turning heads around the world - "How much is too much? That's the question many in India are asking as the months-long wedding festivities for the youngest son of Asia's richest man enter their final phase."
• Alec Baldwin 'played make-believe' with gun, Rust trial hears - "Mr Baldwin has pleaded not guilty and maintains he never pulled the trigger when the gun went off."
• George Clooney, a Major Biden Fund-Raiser, Urges Him to Drop Out - "Mr. Clooney, who co-hosted a lavish fund-raiser for President Biden last month, wrote in a guest essay in The New York Times that Democrats ' are not going to win in November with this president.'"
• The experts: oncologists on the simple, doable, everyday things they do to try to prevent cancer - "Cancer doctors know better than anyone how you can give yourself the best possible chance of avoiding a disease that one in two of us will get. Here, they share the 15 tips that they live by."
• Night owls’ cognitive function ‘superior’ to early risers, study suggests - "Research on 26,000 people found those who stay up late scored better on intelligence, reasoning and memory tests."
• The world's biggest restaurant is coming to Paris - "As the Olympic and Paralympic Games kick off in Paris, more than 200 chefs will be tasked with preparing more than 13 million meals. Here's what athletes can expect."
• China building two-thirds of world’s wind & solar projects - "Country on track reach 1,200GW of installed wind and solar capacity by end of 2024 - six years ahead of Beijing’s target."
• The Fastest Growing Millionaire Populations, by Country (2013-2023) - "The world’s economic powerhouses, like the U.S. or China, hold the majority of millionaires in absolute terms. But which countries are growing their millionaire populations at the fastest rate?"
• Logical fallacies: Seven ways to spot a bad argument - "When people are trying to persuade you, they sometimes reach for underhand tricks like the 'appeal to ignorance' or 'whataboutism' to seem more convincing. Amanda Ruggeri explains how to identify these logical fallacies."
• Coffee a 'miracle' drink with many health benefits, experts say - "In addition, people who consumed more than 60 cups of coffee per month - or more than two a day - were found to have a nearly 70% lower risk of liver cancer, a nearly 50% lower risk for colon and breast cancers and a nearly 30% lower risk for thyroid cancer, according to a 2021 study."

July 10, 2024

• Tour de France 2024: Stage 11 - "Wednesday 10 July: Évaux-les Bains to Le Lioran, 211km."
• Dubai wasn’t always skyscrapers & luxury resorts. This photographer shows what it looked like before its boom - "How an Indian migrant became the UAE’s ‘royal photographer’ and captured the birth of modern Dubai."
• ‘Orange madness:’ Meet the man behind the viral dance craze sweeping Euro 2024 - "A dance tune with two simple instructions and involving thousands of bouncing, orange-clad soccer fans has gone viral at this year’s European Championships. ‘Links Rechts’ or ‘Left Right’ by ‘Snollebollekes’ has become the unofficial anthem of the Dutch national team and videos of fans dancing in their thousands before matches have spread joy around the world. The song is simple - in the best possible way - and listeners are enthusiastically waiting to follow along to the catchy chorus."
• First peek of room behind Buckingham Palace's famous balcony - "Instead of that famous view looking up at the Buckingham Palace balcony, visitors for the first time will be able to look down from the inside."
• BUCKINGHAM PALACE - "The King's official London residence and a working royal palace." Official website.
• Big, beautiful goals - but can’t be bothered? 11 great productivity tips for lazy people - "Struggling to fit everything in? Here’s how to cross off all the jobs on your list ... without really trying."
• The $150,000 dog: meet the Svalinn - the gentle beast who can rip out an attacker’s throat - "They are agile, athletic, even-tempered, intelligent, loving, well-muscled and trained to be lethal bodyguards. The perfect pet, in fact, for a paranoid billionaire."
• World Architecture festival 2024 shortlist - in pictures - "The World Architecture festival’s 2024 shortlist has been announced, revealing projects from around the world spanning categories such as childcare, energy, transport and science. The live event will take place in Singapore from 6-8 November 2024. This year’s finalists represent 71 countries, with five shortlisted: Australia, China, India, Singapore and the United Kingdom."
• Scientists take on riddle of the shrinking & growing Maldives - "British researchers undertake £2.8 million project to understand how rising sea levels are causing islands to become ‘mobile’. A study in 2010 that found islands in the Indian Ocean are shrinking in places but growing in others. The study looked at 30 of the islands in the Maldives and found most were stable or increasing in area, with only 14 per cent experiencing a net reduction."
• Defeated by A.I., a Legend in the Board Game Go Warns: Get Ready for What’s Next - "Lee Saedol was one of the world’s top Go players, and his shocking loss to an A.I. opponent was a harbinger of a new, unsettling era. 'It may not be a happy ending,' he says."
• People have a clever way of making money off airlines to essentially travel for free - "It’s all about looking for an overbooked flight."
• The Rolex Pepsi is an iconic watch - "Everything you need to know about the Rolex Pepsi."
• The 6 Best Umbrellas for Wind & Rain of 2024 - "Trudging through rain is rarely enjoyable, but a great umbrella will reduce the misery, keep you (mostly) dry, and easily stow away when it’s not needed."
• The 10 Best Paris Watch Boutiques to Hit Up During the Olympics - "From Cartier to Omega, Paris is an international destination for luxury shopping of all kinds, and watches are among the most popular items on sale across the French capital."

July 9, 2024

• Tour de France 2024: Stage 10 - "Tuesday 9 July: Orléans to Saint-Amand-Montrond, 187.5km." Flat and innocuous on paper, but when the wind blew here in 2013 the race split to bits, with Alberto Contador putting Alejandro Valverde on the rack. With three changes of direction on the exposed roads in the final 30km, this could happen again. A chance for the hulking Norwegians of Uno-X to engineer a stage win for the seasoned Alexander Kristoff, but the winner here on that windswept day in 2013 was none other than Cavendish.
• From Scandinavia to Big Sur: Eight of the world's best beach houses - "The perfect coastal home must cope with shifting sands, heavy winds and sloped terrains - here are some of the smartest and most stunning designs in the world."
• The Gorgeous & Wildly Underrated European Country Where Public Transportation Is Free - "If you're planning European day trips that cross borders, you definitely won't want to skip a trip to Luxembourg. It's only a short trip from France, Belgium, or Germany, and as tiny as this little European nation may be, it has plenty to explore - and a lot of it is accessible by public transportation."
• Italy's beautiful little city dubbed 'Venice's little sister' but with hardly any tourists - "The Italian city of Padua is home to the first examples of pianos, cars, botanical gardens, and heart transplants, making it perfect for history lovers."
• Copenhagen Tries Rewards for Good Tourist Behavior - "The Danish capital is offering free museum tours, art workshops and more to visitors who take part in climate-friendly initiatives."
• Mapped: the vast network of security deals spanning the Pacific & what it means - "Guardian analysis shows web of agreements between Pacific countries and Australia, US and China, as experts raise concerns over rising militarisation."
• The memo: could one missed message have saved me a lifetime of regret? - "It is the one essential piece of advice you wish you had known when you were younger. I started asking women for their memos – and the results were revealing."
• The 10 Best Tech Gadgets Of June 2024 - "The month of June has been pretty interesting as it’s brought with it a storm of mind-boggling and innovative tech designs! Each design broke through some barrier or convention in the tech world, bringing us unique solutions, improved functionality, and immense value."
• The best Apple iPhones in 2024 - tested, reviewed & ranked - "Looking for a new iPhone, or a good deal on a refurbished handset? Our expert has assessed and rated the current crop of Apple smartphones."
• Trophy hunter killings spark fierce battle over the future of super tusker elephants - "The lifting of a long-held ban has angered conservationists, but others argue trophy hunting can support local economies and even help protect threatened species."
• Beethoven's nine symphonies ranked, from worst to greatest - "From the iconic knocks of fate in Beethoven’s Fifth, to the unbridled joy of the final moments of the Ninth, Beethoven’s symphonies unquestionably define the symphonic genre."

July 8, 2024

• When your home becomes a tourist attraction - "When private homes - and the people who live in them - become tourist attractions, clashes can occur. In more rural areas, people can put up fences or other barriers to access, but when these private homes are on public streets in some of the world’s busiest cities, what’s a resident to do?"
• The Holy Grail Cars? Get Them While They Last - "There are only a few that are considered the top of the collector world. The McLaren F1 may be the last of them."
• Napoleon's pistols sell for €1.69m at auction - "Two pistols owned by the French emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, with which he once intended to kill himself, have been sold at auction for €1.69m."
• Nine of the best TV shows to watch this July - "From Natalie Portman's small-screen debut to violent Ancient Roman epic Those About to Die and a reboot of cult 1980s film Time Bandits."
• The cult of 5am: is rising at dawn the secret of health & happiness? - "It has been called the morning miracle - getting up before everyone else and winning the day. But does it actually make you more productive and focused?"
• Walking vs. running: For the same distance, which consumes more energy? - "Perhaps not surprisingly, running consumes more energy than walking for the same distance covered. But why?"
• Novak Djokovic: rise of padel is putting tennis at risk - "Wimbledon star calls for the ‘king of racket games’ to be more accessible at club level to ensure its survival. Novak Djokovic has warned that grassroots tennis is 'endangered' by the rise of more accessible options such as padel. Padel is easier to master and is already played by 200,000 amateurs in the UK. It is also more profitable for tennis clubs."
• Forrest Gump at 30: a wildly popular movie that remains as light as a feather - "Tom Hanks is an affecting lead but the popularity of Robert Zemeckis’s much-loved Oscar-winner is still a curious mystery."
• 13 Thriller Movies With Perfect Endings - "There’s truly nothing worse than a film that doesn’t stick the landing in its final few moments. While a bad movie can certainly benefit from a particularly memorable ending, a great one can land it on the list of the greatest thrillers ever made."
• 21 essential workwear brands every clothing buff should know 2024 - "From the mass-market stalwarts to the small-batch upstarts, these are the rugged, hard-wearing labels every clothing buff should know."
• Eton bans smartphones for new pupils - "The school will issue boys with an offline Nokia handset instead amid wider moves to improve children’s mental health and behaviour."
• The Apple TV 4K is comfortably the best streamer, but only if you change these settings - "Change these picture settings to get the ultimate picture experience."
• What to Know About COVID FLiRT Variants - "Virologists are keeping an eye on several COVID variants that have all picked up the same set of mutations. Here’s what that means."

July 7, 2024

• Tour de France 2024: Stage 9 - "Sunday 7 July: Troyes to Troyes, 199km." As France goes to the polls in the second round of Macron’s snap election, on the Tour it’s a tense day of constant small climbs and 14 stretches of gravel roads through the Champagne vineyards. It will be dusty and spectacular, and there will be punctures and crashes, particularly if it rains. Pogacar will relish this, having twice won the very similar Italian Strade Bianche race; cyclo-cross specialists Van der Poel and Wout van Aert could also shine.
• The Conspiracy of Silence to Protect Joe Biden - "The president’s mental decline was like a dark family secret for many elite supporters."
• Fact-Checking Biden's ABC Interview - "The president defended his debate performance with exaggerations about polling, his recent appearances and his opponent."
• How Can I Dress to Stay Cool in the Heat? - "As temperatures rise, a reader wonders how to dress for sweaty summers while maintaining a sense of style." Each of the women recommended maxi dresses and skirts, with sleeves, rather than cropped tank tops and shorts. Also, loose garments rather than clinging ones. Flat shoes that are not too tight because feet swell in the heat.
• How to Clean Your Water Bottle & Avoid Mold - "It’s Probably Time to Clean Your Water Bottle. Yes, that black stuff is mold."
• The Century-Long Saga of the Caesar Salad - "The world-famous salad is the pride of Tijuana, Mexico. But 100 years later, no one can agree on who created it."
• The best tech of 2024 so far - the 11 finest gadgets we've tested & what's coming next - "You can jump straight into our list of the 11 best products we've tested so far this year below, with the list covering everything from Bluetooth speakers to OLED TVs and cameras."
• ChatGPT just (accidentally) shared all of its secret rules - "Saying 'hi' revealed OpenAI's instructions until the company shut it down, but you can still find them."
• Google’s emissions climb nearly 50% in five years due to AI energy demand - "Tech giant’s goal of reducing climate footprint at risk as it grows increasingly reliant on energy-hungry data centres."
• The Health Trends That Are Defining 2024 - "'Hurkle-durkling' is in, along with gut health and floor time." Products that claim to heal and hack your gut have become a staple of wellness culture. In 2024, the gut has gotten a glow up: Pastel cans of prebiotic sodas have popped up on store shelves; the microbiome has gone mainstream; and people are adding apple cider vinegar into their drinks, hoping to cure acid reflux.
• A Bill Gates-Recommended Read Is The Bestselling Book Of The Year So Far - "'The Women' by Kristin Hannah, which tells a fictional story of military nurses serving in Vietnam, is the bestselling book released in 2024 so far with 829,115 print copies sold."
• Are You a Checker or an Unchecker? - "One Million Checkboxes, a simple online game that invites visitors to click or unclick check boxes, has become an unintentional case study in human behavior." A Washington Post newsletter called it 'the most pointless website on the planet' - which it seemed to mean as a compliment.
• The White Party That Brought Kim Kardashian, Drake & Tom Brady to the Hamptons - "Michael Rubin, the billionaire e-commerce mogul, hosted a celebrity-filled, Independence Day bash at his beachfront mansion on Long Island."

July 6, 2024

• Tour de France 2024: Stage 8 - "Saturday 6 July: Semur-en-Auxois to Colombey-les-Deux-Églises, 183.5km." The breathtaking run of cultural, culinary and historic reference points continues: now we’re off to the home and burial place of Charles de Gaulle. In 1960 en route to Troyes the riders stopped to greet France’s wartime leader; anti-climactically, lowly placed Pierre Beuffeuil took advantage of the halt to nip off up the road and win the stage. No chance of that today; expect a fourth bunch sprint.
• Biden's TV interview: self-confident but in denial - "President recalls much more about his record but his attitude to poor approval ratings was more like his Republican rival. Biden said it 'depends on if the Lord Almighty comes down and tells me that, I might do that.' Democrats hope he will take the counsel of mortals.
• 6 takeaways from President Joe Biden’s high-stakes ABC interview - "Biden takes ownership of debate performance, but offers a new excuse."
• Warning signs: a history of Joe Biden’s verbal slips - "Signs were hiding in plain sight well before the US presidential debate against Donald Trump."
• This Italian vacation hotspot is turning tourists away as it runs out of water - "Set atop a hill on the Italian island of Sicily, Agrigento is a heritage tourist’s paradise. Beneath the archaeological structures and relics of its Valley of the Temples lies an ancient maze-like aqueduct system that still captures water today. But the aqueduct, and others built in modern times, are running dry."
• UK's five most beautiful national parks - "For a small country, the United Kingdom packs a hefty punch when it comes to the diversity and beauty of its landscapes."
• Elephants, Michelin stars & Mughal jewels: Indian weddings are a $130 billion business - "In less than a week, Anant Ambani, son of Indian billionaire Mukesh Ambani, will marry his girlfriend Radhika Merchant. India is no stranger to opulent weddings, but the preparations and parties for this particular union have transfixed the country."
• Clothes of the Rich, Famous & Fabulous - "At couture week in Paris, fashion fans peacocked with industry fixtures in a whirl of formal attire and street wear."
• World's richest countries in 2024 - "Here is the ranking of countries with the highest GDP per capita in 2024, based on data from the International Monetary Fund (IMF)."
• Prince William rides e-scooter to Windsor Castle - "The Prince of Wales, well-known for his environmental views, left his car behind for the short trip from his home."
• James Bond has an Andrew Tate problem. The answer is to set it in the 1960s - "Whoever plays the role, it would be wise if the franchise rebooted in period costume - so that 007’s sexism and toxic masculinity seem less anachronistic"
• Stomach Pain, Diarrhea & More Overlooked Covid Symptoms - "Gastrointestinal issues are a common but often unrecognized sign of infection."
• Like, really? Academic says stop sneering at the word 'Like' - "Criticising the filler word interrupts thought and shows bias against young women, according to a professor of sociolinguistics."

July 5, 2024

• Tour de France 2024: Stage 7 - "Friday 5 July: Nuits-Saints-Georges to Gevrey-Chambertin, individual time trial, 25.3km." A time trial between two names that will have wine buffs salivating offers a tasty third snapshot of the favourites’ form after days one and four. This is pancake flat so will favour Remco Evenepoel, the reigning world champion, who dominated a similar stage in last year’s Giro, and should be almost unbeatable here. If Roglic, Pogacar and Vingegaard - and 2019 winner Egan Bernal - can limit their losses to a few seconds, it’s game on.
• Disney heir joins other Democrat backers to pause donations until Joe Biden steps aside - "Abigail Disney says choice to suspend donations is based on ‘realism, not disrespect’, and suggests Kamala Harris as an alternative."
• Mark Zuckerberg & the tech tycoons carving up Lake Tahoe - "Silicon Valley billionaires are driving a property boom on the California-Nevada border. But vast mansions and crystal clear waters aren’t the only draw."
• This country has a national happiness index. But what is it really like to live there? - "Located between China and India, the world’s two most populous countries, high in the Himalayas, sits Bhutan. Known as the Land of the Thunder Dragon, it’s a Buddhist monarchy of 700,000 residents that has only had regular television broadcasts since 1999."
• Confessions of a spin doctor for the world's worst people - "Phil Elwood is an American PR man who worked for Colonel Gaddafi and got Assad’s wife in Vogue. Can he ever buy back his soul?"
• Hippos can 'glide through the air' says zoo study - "Hippos can trot so fast they can glide through the air for a period of time, according to animal experts. Research from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) suggests that all four of their feet can leave the ground for up to 0.3 seconds at a time."
• Amazon at 30: What next for 'The Everything Company'? - "The story of Amazon, since it was founded by Jeff Bezos in 1994, has been one of explosive growth, and continual reinvention. As the company itself once joked, pretty much the only way you could get though a day without enriching Amazon in some way was by 'living in a cave'."
• 7 Frugal Living Tips That Work: Warren Buffett’s Money-Saving Habits - "Warren Buffett, one of the world’s most successful investors, is renowned for his financial acumen and frugal lifestyle. Despite his immense wealth, Buffett’s money-saving habits offer valuable lessons for anyone looking to improve their financial health. Let’s explore seven essential frugal living tips inspired by the Oracle of Omaha himself."
• 7 signs you’re going to be wealthy, even if you haven’t achieved much yet - "Wealth is a mindset, a way of thinking and behaving. It’s a journey, not a destination. You don’t have to be a millionaire to be wealthy (though that certainly doesn’t hurt)."
• A foot hammock was the best thing I packed on a 10-hour economy flight - "I took a 10-hour flight, and one carry-on item made sitting in economy more comfortable. I loved the accessory, which allowed me to bend my knees and get comfortable in the cramped seat."
• Flying abroad? These are the last travel-size minis you’ll ever need to buy - "I enjoy the challenge of squeezing my essentials into a polythene bag at security. Here’s how I do it."
• What a patchwork kimono can teach us about sustainability - "What the Japanese Edo period, from 1603 to 1868, can teach us about today. This culture of deep sustainability was reinforced by strict regulations to deal with timber shortages. Japan's economy was as dependent on wood."
• The unlikely origins of the hot dog - "The truth about the US’ most iconic food. As many Americans fire up the grill to celebrate Independence Day this Fourth of July, we're revisiting one of our favourite stories about the unlikely origins of one of the nation's most popular foods: the humble hot dog."
• Kill These 2 iOS Settings to Maximize Your iPhone's Battery Life - "If you're traveling this summer, you don't want your iPhone to die while you're looking up directions."
• David Duchovny: ‘I’m not just throwing on a kilt willy-nilly’ - "The actor and musician answers your questions on Twin Peaks, that song by Catatonia and the importance of failure."

July 4, 2024

• Tour de France 2024: Stage 6 - "Thursday 4 July: Mâcon to Dijon, 163.5km." The first of two days among some of France’s most legendary vintages, passing Meursault, Chassagne-Montrachet and Pouilly, and this should follow the same pattern as the day before: a doomed breakaway and a hectic finale before a bunch sprint. By now it should be clear which of the sprinters is this year’s premier cru; Philipsen will be favourite, but there’s plenty of competition with Cavendish, Bennett, Dylan Groenewegen and Fabio Jakobsen all likely to threaten.
• This city’s most expensive hotel room starts at $100,000 per night - "These are some of Dubai’s most expensive luxury hotel rooms." The City of Gold is known for its all-out glitz and glamour - and with good reason: Dubai is bursting with five-star hotels that ooze opulence. With over 150 luxurious resorts located across the city, travelers who are willing to splash the cash are spoilt for choice.
• How not to be a bad tourist & still travel - "Why it's time to rethink what it means to be a tourist. A new book chronicles the power that travel has to transform places around the world, for better or worse - and asks us to consider that the label 'tourist' can be a good one."
• Palace of Versailles evacuated with security operation underway: Authorities say to avoid the area - "An official announcement told people to avoid the area, saying that an 'intervention' was underway and that security forces were on the scene."
• Hollywood stars’ estates agree to the use of their voices with AI - "Earlier this week, AI company ElevenLabs said it is bringing digitally produced celebrity voice-overs of deceased actors, including Garland, James Dean and Burt Reynolds, to its newly launched Reader app. The company said the app takes articles, PDF, ePub, newsletters, e-books or any other text on your phone and turns it into voice-overs."
• Can the climate survive the insatiable energy demands of the AI arms race? - "New computing infrastructure means big tech is likely to miss emissions targets but they can’t afford to get left behind in a winner takes all market."
• Why GPS Is Under Attack - "Satellite signals run the modern world. See just how vulnerable they are."
• Our Favorite Nutrition Takeaways from 2024, So Far - "Is red wine good for your heart? Are ultraprocessed foods really that bad for you? We have answers to these questions and more: 1. A Mediterranean eating pattern may be worth a try. 2. A glass of wine a day will not keep the doctor away. 3. Avocados really are that good for you. 4. Don't fall for the myth that you should delay your morning caffeine."
• Revolution in the air: how laughing gas changed the world - "Since its discovery in the 18th century, nitrous oxide has gone from vaudeville gimmick to pioneering anaesthetic to modern party drug."
• Blindness fears over weight-loss drug Ozempic - "A Harvard study found people taking semaglutide were significantly more likely to develop a rare and irreversible eye condition."
• Why Does Humidity Make Me So Miserable? - "Heat is only part of the picture. Here’s why humid air makes us irritable and exhausted - and how you can cope."
• How to Stay Safe in Extreme Heat - "We asked emergency room doctors for their advice on protecting yourself from dehydration, heat stroke and other serious health problems: Go to a cooling station or mall, even if only for a couple hours, if you lack air conditioning at home. When you do go out or exercise in the heat, wear loosefitting, light-colored clothing, which will absorb less heat and help keep your body cool. Stay hydrated, even when you don't feel thirsty."
• Do You Really Need Sunscreen Every Day? - "Some worry it robs you of the benefits of sunshine, like vitamin D. We asked experts to weigh in."
• Everything You Need to Know About USB Ports & Speeds (2024) - "USB-C was supposed to make everything simple. Instead, it’s more complicated than ever. So let's clear up the confusion."

July 3, 2024

• Tour de France 2024: Stage five - "Wednesday 3 July: Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne to Saint-Vulbas, 177.5km." A run out of the Alps through Chambéry, home of the Decathlon-Ag2R team since its foundation in 1992. This should be a second sprint stage, and Decathlon will be fired up to launch their Irish sprinter Sam Bennett, set to return to the Tour for the first time since 2020. He’s won four sprints this year but whether he has the legs of last year’s points winner, Jasper Philipsen, remains to be seen.
• India has a taste for mega-weddings. This is expected to be one of the biggest yet - "The son of Asia’s richest man is getting married in one of India’s most anticipated - and lavish - weddings of the year."
• A.I. Begins Ushering In an Age of Killer Robots - "The pressure to outthink the enemy, along with huge flows of investment, donations and government contracts, has turned Ukraine into a Silicon Valley for autonomous drones and other weaponry."
• Steve Ballmer, who was once Bill Gates’ assistant, is now richer than his onetime mentor - "But now, his skyrocketing Microsoft holdings have made him richer than the company's founder. The 68-year-old former Microsoft CEO squeaked by his onetime boss Bill Gates to become the sixth richest person in the world on Monday with a net worth of $157 billion."
• This arm exercise helps you strengthen your whole body - "The hammer curl. This powerful movement not only builds impressive arm muscles but also enhances overall body strength, function, stability and resiliency. Hammer curls are a variation of regular bicep curls. Like their traditional counterpart, one of the primary muscles targeted by hammer curls include the biceps brachii, the muscle best known as 'the bicep.' However, hammer curls also emphasize two other arm muscles: the brachialis, a muscle beneath the biceps brachii that helps support the elbow joint, and the brachioradialis, a forearm muscle that enhances grip strength."
• What does a world without Airbnb look like? - "With Barcelona announcing a total ban on short-term rentals from the end of 2028, how will decisions to curb Airbnb and others in the world's major cities change how we travel?"
• Inside The Ultimate $127000 Luxury Whisky Weekend - "The Balmoral Hotel In Edinburgh has teamed up with The Macallan to offer the pinnacle of luxury whisky weekends for discerning fans. The three night stay will set you back $127,000 (£100,000) and as well as allowing you to own the Macallan Horizon whisky it is sure to be an unforgettable experience."
• THIS LEGO ROLEX SUBMARINER IS A MASTERPIECE FOR LUXURY WATCH & LEGO FANS - "The robust and angular aesthetic of the Submariner’s 'super' case design seamlessly translated into the LEGO system. This transformation resulted in an impressive and eye-catching exhibition piece, perfect for display in a home study or office."
• Apple now considers its first HomePod to be 'vintage' - "The original AirPods are also a new addition to Apple's vintage and obsolete list."
• Apple Watch Ultra 3: Everything We Know So Far - "The Apple Watch Ultra 3, likely to be released in September 2024 alongside the iPhone 16, is expected to offer fewer upgrades compared to its predecessor, the Apple Watch Ultra 2. Keep reading to learn what the rumored changes are."
• Oura Ring review: Sleek, smart & great for sleep tracking - "The Oura Ring is best for anyone who doesn't want to wear something bulky on their wrist, but still wants to track some health and fitness habits. It delivers very accurate sleep and health data, and doesn't require much input from the wearer."
• I changed these 10 iPhone settings to dramatically improve the battery life - "Finding it hard to get through the day on a single iPhone charge? Tweak these settings for an endurance boost."

July 3, 2024

• Tour de France 2024: Stage four - "Tuesday 2 July: Pinerolo to Valloire, 140km." Gone are the days when the Tour’s opening week was a stultifying succession of sprint stages: this is pure climbing. The first 50km are uphill, but the sting comes at the end; it’s unprecedented for the Tour to go over a pass as high as the Galibier this early on. If the defending champion, Jonas Vingegaard, is short of form we will find out here; the downhill finale will suit Tom Pidcock, arguably the fastest descender in the bunch.
• The Rubik’s Cube Turns 50 - "Mathematicians and hobbyists have had a half-century of fun exploring the 43 billion billion permutations of Erno Rubik’s creation."
• This is why US tourists have a reputation for being ‘stupid’ - "How to avoid the ‘stupid American’ stereotype while traveling abroad."
• Istanbul's plan to save its cultural soul - "An extensive culture and heritage restoration campaign is revealing previously overlooked layers of the world's most visited city."
• Ranked: The 30 Most Walkable Cities In The World, According To A New Report - "There’s nothing like walking in a city, absorbing the local culture and stumbling upon hidden gems. So what are the most walkable cities in the world? A new report has the answers."
• Judge orders surprise release of Epstein transcripts - "A judge in Florida has ordered the surprise release of graphic transcripts from the state's 2006 prosecution of paedophile Jeffrey Epstein - a probe that ended with the millionaire financier receiving a legal slap on the wrist."
• ‘They always got away with it’: new book reveals Kennedys’ shocking treatment of women - "Maureen Callahan’s eye-opening exposé looks back at the Kennedy men and the women they ‘destroyed’, digging into a long and grisly history."
• Smudgy chins, weird hands, dodgy numbers: seven signs you’re watching a deepfake - "Look out for surplus fingers, compare mannerisms with real recordings and apply good old-fashioned common sense and scepticism, experts advise."
• 'We are famously unprofitable': A 36-year-old Jeff Bezos on Amazon - "Amazon was once Jeff Bezos's "famously unprofitable company", as the former CEO said in an exclusive 2000 BBC Newsnight interview. Nearly 25 years on, the ubiquitous company has become one of a handful of companies in the world valued at over $2 trillion."
• How Healthy Is Watermelon? - "It’s hydrating, to start. It's heart healthy, to some degree. Watermelon is fat- and sodium-free, which is good for your heart. But the jury is still out as to whether watermelon plays an active role in lowering heart disease risk, Dr. Slavin said. Here’s what else experts had to say about this warm-weather treat - along with some refreshing recipes."
• These ultraprocessed foods may shorten your life, study says - "Eating higher levels of ultraprocessed food may shorten lifespans by more than 10%, according to a new, unpublished study of over 500,000 people whom researchers followed for nearly three decades."
• LVMH billionaire Bernard Arnault enters race to acquire Venice’s iconic Hotel Bauer - with bids rising over €275 million - "Billionaire Bernard Arnault has joined the chase to purchase a storied Venice hotel, one of the trophy assets put on the market in the messy fallout from the implosion of Rene Benko’s Signa Group. Despite its prime location and a history dating to 1880, the sales process has been caught up in Signa’s complex creditor entanglements."
• Can AI boom drive Nvidia to a $4tn valuation despite investor doubt? - "Powerful new chips are on the way but there are questions over whether tech firm’s growth can be sustained."
• The Patek Philippe Alarm Travel Time 5520RG - "Monday Morning With The Patek Philippe Alarm Travel Time Ref. 5520RG - A Two-Tone Grand Complication."

July 1, 2024

• Tour de France 2024: Stage three - "Monday 1 July: Piacenza to Turin, 230.5km." After Gino Bartali on Saturday, Pantani on Sunday, if it’s Monday it must be a stage that tips its hat to Fausto Coppi, passing through Tortona, home town of the campionissimo. As far as the action goes, today things should settle down - briefly - with a relatively innocuous, if lengthy, sprint stage, offering a first chance to assess the form of the fastmen, and a first opportunity for Mark Cavendish to tilt for that record-breaking stage win.
• Five Wimbledon storylines to look out for - "Strawberries. Pimm's. The Hill. The Queue. And, most importantly, the world's finest players battling it out on the ultimate test of grass-court tennis."
• New rules for Mount Fuji climbers start today - "Mount Fuji, a UNESCO World Heritage site and an icon of Japan, has put new regulations in place for climbers amid concerns about overcrowding. Beginning July 1, climbers must pay 2,000 yen ($12.40) per person, with a daily maximum of 4,000 climbers per day."
• The Meme-ification of Anthony Bourdain - "The beloved chef's admirers have given him a distinctly modern kind of digital afterlife - at the center of fondly parodic jokes."
• The big Glastonbury 2024 review - "The Last Dinner Party justify the hype, Dua Lipa nails it and Coldplay go over the top."
• The Science of Dogs - "We explore a boom in research into our furry friends."
• Apple is finally adding RCS texting to the iPhone - "Shortly before Apple was forced to bring RCS to the iPhone through European regulators, the company announced the technology would trickle onto its devices later on in 2024. Now, we have confirmation that the feature will officially arrive as a part of iOS 18."
• 7 underrated HomeKit features you need to know - "Apple HomeKit is an accessible way for users to create a smart home. While it’s true that HomeKit is optimized for Apple’s own HomePod speakers, there are hundreds of HomeKit compatible devices from well-known IoT brands."
• The actor who “underestimated the role” of James Bond, according to Sean Connery - "As one of the most coveted roles in cinema, there’s a huge amount of pressure and expectation that comes with playing James Bond. Being the originator of cinema’s most famous secret agent, Sean Connery knows what it takes to succeed."
• How Coffee Helped the Union Caffeinate Their Way to Victory in the Civil War - "Coffee replaced tea as the U.S. drink of choice around the time of the American Revolution. From the moment patriots tossed chests of tea into Boston Harbor in December 1773, drinking coffee - and boycotting tea - became a sure sign of loyalty to the cause of independence."
• New Release: Hautlence Retrovision '47 Watch - "Earlier this year, the Swiss luxury watch brand Hautlence (owned by the same folks who also own H. Moser & Cie.) created a one-of-a-kind timepiece for Watches & Wonders Geneva 2024. Inspired by the General Television & Radio Corp. 'Model 5A5' radio broadcast receiver from the 1940s, the piece-unique was created as a talking point for the show."