Indoor smoking bans could also be extended to some outdoor places like children’s playgrounds. READ MORE from The Independent
Wednesday, November 06, 2024
Our outdated mental health laws are as old as I am – and treat people more like criminals than patients
Police cells should be for people who have committed a crime, not for those in desperate need of medical help, writes health secretary Wes Streeting – who has vowed to dramatically update protections for the most vulnerable in society. READ MORE from The Independent
A record number of US states are in drought during what may be Earth’s warmest year
New York City residents were told to conserve water this week after the driest October on record. READ MORE from The Independent
Paul Mescal says he has a plan for if "Gladiator 2" makes him ‘too famous’
Paul Mescal has revealed ahead of the release of "Gladiator II" how he intends to balance out any fame that he gains from the film. READ MORE from The Independent
I’m happier now than I was being a ‘smug married’
After spending a lifetime pursuing a dream marriage Stacey Duguid is now a single mother divorcee. Here, she unpicks the latest survey which claims marriage staves off low mood and depression, and says the pursuit of happiness is a messy business, but getting hitched isn’t necessarily the answer. READ MORE from The Independent
‘It’s time to unite’: Donald Trump’s victory speech in full
Donald Trump has declared victory in the presidential election, telling Americans that it is “time to unite” and vowing to “Make America Great Again”. READ MORE from The Independent
Can’t work, sing, travel, study: All the ways the Taliban are restricting lives of women in Afghanistan
Afghan women cannot be heard in public, even if it is to offer prayers, and have been banned from schools, workplaces, salons, gyms and national parks under the current Taliban rule. READ MORE from The Independent
What is the tourist appeal of Vietnam?
SOURCE: Gemini
Vietnam offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, making it an alluring destination for travelers seeking unique experiences.
Breathtaking Landscapes: Vietnam boasts stunning natural wonders, from the iconic Halong Bay with its thousands of limestone karsts rising from emerald waters, to the lush rice terraces of Sapa, and the serene beaches of Nha Trang.
Historical and Cultural Treasures: The country's history is deeply woven into its landscape, with ancient temples like My Son Sanctuary, the bustling Ho Chi Minh City, and the charming Hoi An Ancient Town offering glimpses into Vietnam's past.
Vibrant Culture: Vietnam's diverse ethnic groups contribute to a rich tapestry of traditions, festivals, and arts. Visitors can immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere of local markets, witness traditional water puppetry performances, or explore the vibrant street art scene in cities like Hanoi.
Warm Hospitality: Vietnamese people are renowned for their warmth and friendliness, making visitors feel welcome and creating memorable interactions.
Affordable Luxury: Vietnam offers a range of experiences to suit every budget, from budget backpacker adventures to luxurious resorts.
Delicious Cuisine: Vietnamese cuisine is a delightful fusion of flavors, with fresh ingredients and bold spices creating dishes like pho, banh mi, and spring rolls.
Whether you're seeking adventure, cultural immersion, or simply relaxation, Vietnam has something to offer every traveler.
100-year-old chemistry rule proven false, updating textbooks comes next
Ever heard of a rule that’s been around for so long, everyone just assumes it’s unbreakable? Well, a team of scientists is turning that notion on its head by proving wrong a key rule of organic chemistry.
Neil Garg, a distinguished professor of chemistry and biochemistry, is leading the charge to rewrite a fundamental principle that’s been part of organic chemistry for the past hundred years.
In a recent study published in Science, Garg and his colleagues at UCLA revealed that Bredt’s rule — a staple in chemistry textbooks since 1924 — might not be as ironclad as we’ve been led to believe.
But before we get into how they’re shaking things up, let’s take a step back and understand what this rule is all about. READ MORE from Earth.com
RSF reveals the 2024 shortlist for its Press Freedom Prize ahead of the awards ceremony in Washington DC this December
The 32nd ceremony for Reporters Without Borders (RSF)’s Press Freedom Prize will be held on 4 December 2024 in Washington DC, hosted by journalist Lulu Garcia-Navarro. Twenty-five individual journalists, teams of journalists, photographers and media outlets from around the world are up for prizes from RSF’s four traditional categories — courage, impact, independence and the Lucas Dolega-SAIF Photo Prize, added in 2023 — as well as the Prize for African Investigative Journalism - Mohamed Maïga, a brand new award added this year. READ MORE from Reporters Without Borders
Quotable quote
- Is something on your mind?
- I forgot to say something before I left.
- Maybe they heard it anyway. Sometimes hearts have their own conversations.
From "The Wild Robot"
Tuesday, November 05, 2024
BOOK REVIEW: “The Book of Laughter and Forgetting” by Milan Kundera
"Physical love was merely a sign, merely a symbolic act that confirms friendship," writes Kundera.
If you think you have heard this phrase before, you are right. It was uttered by Shah Rukh Khan's character in Karan Johar's "Kuch Kuch Hota Hai".
Johar reinforces this concept in a later film titled "Ae Dil Hai Mushkil".
I have always been of the view that love, romantic love too, can exist only if it was based on some sort of friendship and respect. In fact, for me, saying "I love you" to someone is equal to saying "I respect you".
Then there is death, which makes everything invaluable.
"Death's proximity makes life burn all the brighter," said a character in Chris Sanders's animated movie "The Wild Robot" based on Peter Brown's book.
Kundera echoes how we, all living things, are on a trajectory toward death, no matter what our life's timeline is.
Writes Kundera: "Jan said that we are all seated on the direct line to death. That the whole world, which is being assailed by violence, cruelty, barbarism, was seated on that line."
Kundera’s “The Book of Laughter and Forgetting” delves into the nature of forgetting, memory, history, and the individual's relationship with the past.
The novel explores how regimes manipulate history and memory to control the present, and how individuals resist and subvert these attempts.
The novel is composed of seven separate narratives that are loosely connected by recurring themes and characters. This fragmented structure reflects the fragmented nature of memory and history.
The characters are complex and often morally ambiguous. They are caught between the forces of history and their own desires, and they struggle to find meaning and freedom in a world that seems to be slipping away from them.
Kundera's writing is known for its precision and wit. He uses language to explore the complexities of human experience and to expose the absurdities of political power.
The novel is a scathing critique of totalitarianism and the manipulation of history. It highlights the dangers of forgetting the past and the importance of individual memory in resisting oppression.
Kundera blends elements of realism, magical realism, and philosophical inquiry. This creates a unique and thought-provoking reading experience.
"The Book of Laughter and Forgetting" is considered one of Kundera's most important works and a significant contribution to 20th-century literature. It has been widely translated and has influenced countless writers and thinkers.
These are just a few of the notable aspects of his novel which is a rich and complex work that rewards careful reading and reflection.
Quotable quote
"Once, there was an island with all sorts of animals, and they fought and they ran and they hid. But mostly, they were scared. But then a robot fell right out of the sky. Roz. She had some strange ideas. Thought kindness was a survival skill. And you know what? She was right."
From "The Wild Robot"
French parents whose children took own lives sue TikTok over harmful content
Lawsuit alleges TikTok’s algorithm exposed teenagers to videos promoting suicide, self-harm and eating disorders. READ MORE from The Guardian
Exercise in a pill: have scientists really found a drug that’s as good for you as a 10km run?
Just how excited should we be about LaKe, the substance discovered by researchers at Denmark’s Aarhus University? READ MORE from The Guardian
The big idea: is convenience making our lives more difficult?
Everything is easier with modern technology – except fulfilling your true potential.
The convenience of modern life is nothing short of astounding. As I write this, my phone is wirelessly sending some of the greatest hits from the 1700s (Bach, if you must know) to my portable speaker. I could use that same device to, within moments, get a car to pick me up, have food delivered to my house, or start chatting with someone on a dating app. To human beings from even the recent past this technology would be, to quote Arthur C Clarke’s third law, indistinguishable from magic. READ MORE from The Guardian
I used to think Googling my symptoms kept me healthy. My mother’s death showed me I had to quit
Tragedy, and an OCD diagnosis, reshaped my understanding of what I was doing – and why. READ MORE from The Guardian
‘One thing goes wrong and that’s it’: how Janet Jackson’s career was wrecked in a split second
Paula Varjack’s theatre show Nine Sixteenths looks back at the 2004 Super Bowl ‘Nipplegate’ controversy and what it reveals about the pressures on black women in the public eye.
It has been just over two decades since Justin Timberlake ripped off a piece of Janet Jackson’s bustier at the 2004 Super Bowl half-time show – an incident that saw her right breast briefly exposed to 70,000 in-person spectators and more than 140 million TV viewers in what became known as “Nipplegate”. Despite both singers chalking the moment up to a “wardrobe malfunction”, it sparked international outrage and left Jackson, then 37, blacklisted from a significant portion of the music industry for years. In contrast, 23-year-old Timberlake (having just left the boyband ’NSync) went on to thrive as a solo artist.
The role that race, age and gender played in the aftermath is the inspiration for US-born theatre-maker and performer Paula Varjack’s new play, Nine Sixteenths. As a black woman, “it feels like you are not allowed to put a foot wrong”, says 46-year-old Varjack, who now lives in London. “One thing goes wrong, and that is it,” she adds. “The terrifying thing for me about [Jackson’s] story is that I strongly believe it was an accident.” READ MORE from The Guardian
Sri Lanka arrests man accused of planning to kill a Maldivian gang leader
... The intended victim, however, was summoned to the Police station, where he was warned of the attack. Details of relevant text messages and financial transactions were also shared with him. READ FULL REPORT from The Edition
Pros and cons of Maldives "strongly conflicting" over issue of female model participating in an overseas beauty pageant
The government and Islamic religious scholars all voiced opposition to the news, calling it non-Muslim.
... "Miss Universe should be called 'Miss Hell' because women compete naked," religious scholar Sheikh Zamman Parisi said on Facebook. "Women participating in the competition are evil and corrupt people who encourage nakedness around the world for money."
... However, there were voices refuting the criticism, saying it was excessive. "Our (Maldiv) economy is supported by the sale of drugs, alcohol, and pig highlands," a social media user said on X (X, formerly Twitter), adding, "It is ridiculous to try to prevent a woman from participating in a beauty pageant at a time when most (Maldiv) people are involved in usury and bribery (forbidden in Islam)."
... Some netizens pointed out that the Maldives government's criticism of Miss Universe while hosting competitions such as "Mr. Maldives" is a measure of hypocrisy. READ MORE from Maeil Business Newspaper
‘Selling juice after getting PhD’: Desperation in Kashmir over lack of jobs
Realities on the ground belie government’s claims that it brought prosperity to the disputed region by imposing New Delhi’s direct control in 2019. READ MORE from Al Jazeera
Bangladesh skips India, reroutes global textile exports through Maldives
Bangladesh is rerouting its textile exports to the Maldives by sea and then dispatching cargoes by air to its global customers including H&M and Zara. READ MORE from Mint
Why did so many die in Spain? Because Europe still hasn’t accepted the realities of extreme weather
Severe flooding is, unfortunately, inevitable. What isn’t inevitable is how ready we are, from early warning systems to emergency services. READ MORE from The Guardian
Climate crisis leaves European farmers vulnerable to far right, say campaigners
Populist groups capitalising on costly environmental policies that affect farmers by offering them support. READ MORE from The Guardian
Maldives calls for special fund to protect biodiversity
... "Such a fund would enable small island developing nations like Maldives to secure the necessary funding and resources to conserve wildlife species and environments, and strengthen implementation of the Convention," the Ministry said in a press release. READ FULL REPORT from The Edition
Maldives strengthens whale shark conservation with new national regulation
... This new policy is set to enhance the experience for tourists interacting with whale sharks in the Maldives while also safeguarding the vital ecosystem that supports whale sharks in their natural habitat. With this regulation, the Maldives continues to lead by example in marine conservation efforts, ensuring that future generations can appreciate the beauty of these gentle giants. READ FULL REPORT from TTG Asia
Degradation of land is threat to human life, Saudi government says
Deputy environment minister calls for urgent action as Riyadh prepares for global summit on issue next month. READ MORE from The Guardian
Maldives collects biometrics to tackle illegal immigration issues
The Maldives government has expanded its national campaign, Operation Kurangi, aimed at curbing illegal immigration across the island nation. As part of Operation Kurangi, a program initiated in May by the Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology to regularize undocumented expatriates, biometric data has been collected for more than 8,000 individuals, the Edition reports. READ MORE from Biometric Update
Emerging travel trends: Move over Maldives, Paris! Millennials, Gen Z are now chasing these offbeat tourist destinations
From Vietnam to Georgia: Here are the unexplored tourist destinations that are taking Indian millennials and Gen Z travel by storm. READ MORE from Hindustan Times
MIB introduces revolutionary new services in Maldives
Maldives Islamic Bank (MIB) has last night (1 November 2024) unveiled a variety of new services in a special ceremony held at Central Park in Hulhumale'. READ MORE from The Edition
From walking the ramp, holidaying in Maldives to attending Diwali parties, breast cancer fighter Hina Khan's journey with self love
From gracing the ramp to relaxing on tropical shores, breast cancer survivor Hina Khan embraces every moment with renewed strength. Her journey highlights the power of self-love as she balances career, wellness, and personal joy. With unwavering determination, she continues to inspire fans with glimpses into her courageous and fulfilling life. READ MORE from The Times of India
Maldives tourism insights October 2024: Trends, visitor demographics, and growth
October 2024 has been a remarkable month for the Maldives tourism industry, which saw 155,389 arrivals, marking a 7.7% increase compared to the same period last year. With an average of 5,550 tourists arriving each day, October 27 set a record as the busiest day, bringing in 7,902 eager travelers looking for a slice of tropical paradise. READ MORE from Travel and Tour World
Maldives does not feature on ’World’s best beach of 2024’ top 10 list; check these THREE Asian shores instead
Entalula Beach in the Philippines and Pink Beach in Indonesia are highlighted as exclusive retreats, with natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and unique features, providing ideal spots for relaxation and adventure away from crowded tourist areas. READ MORE from Mint
What is the tourist appeal of Georgia?
SOURCE: Gemini
Georgia, the country nestled between Europe and Asia, offers a captivating blend of ancient history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality.
Here's a glimpse of its tourist appeal:
1. Ancient History and Culture:
* UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Explore the historic city of Mtskheta, the Gelati Monastery, and the Upper Svaneti region, all recognized by UNESCO for their cultural significance.
* Medieval Architecture: Admire the stunning churches and fortresses that dot the landscape, showcasing the country's rich architectural heritage.
* Wine Culture: Discover a centuries-old winemaking tradition and sample the unique flavors of Georgian wines.
2. Diverse Landscapes:
* Caucasus Mountains: Embark on breathtaking hikes through the Caucasus Mountains, with peaks like Mount Kazbek and Mount Shkhara.
* Black Sea Coast: Relax on the beautiful beaches of the Black Sea coast, enjoy water sports, or explore charming coastal towns like Batumi.
* Kartli Plains: Experience the fertile plains of Kartli, home to ancient ruins and picturesque villages.
3. Warm Hospitality:
* Georgian Cuisine: Indulge in delicious Georgian cuisine, known for its hearty dishes like khachapuri (cheese bread) and khinkali (dumplings).
Friendly Locals: Immerse yourself in the warm and welcoming culture of the Georgian people, known for their hospitality.
4. Affordable Luxury:
* Budget-Friendly Travel: Enjoy a comfortable and affordable travel experience, with budget-friendly accommodations and delicious local cuisine.
Whether you're seeking adventure, history, or relaxation, Georgia offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience.
History in the making: is the US finally about to elect its first female president?
Nail-biter of an election could result in Harris being the first female and first Asian American president. READ MORE from The Guardian
Is the race for the White House ‘a real Armageddon election’?
The outcome could have profound implications for the wars in Gaza and Ukraine as well as the climate crisis. READ MORE from The Guardian
What if Trump’s campaign is cover for a slow-motion coup?
Even if Trump can’t really mobilize large numbers of people to the streets, just prolonging a sense of chaos might be enough. READ MORE from The Guardian
On November 5, I will vote against genocide
What I have seen in Palestine has convinced me not to vote for Kamala Harris for the sake of the Palestinian and American people. READ MORE from Al Jazeera
US election campaigns shift strategies as Latino voter allegiances change
Latinos have long been considered Democratic supporters, but the demographic has been shifting to the right. READ MORE from Al Jazeera
Iran arrests female student who stripped to protest harassment
An Iranian woman was arrested after reportedly stripping down to her undergarments to protest an alleged assault by security forces for not following strict hijab laws.
The woman was reportedly assaulted, and her clothes were torn inside Tehran’s Islamic Azad University science and research branch on Saturday for not following strict hijab rules, Iran International reported. READ MORE from The Independent
"Concord" Dev Firewalk Studios is being closed, and Sony blames everyone but itself
We’re all trying to find the guy who did this.
When the ill-fated PlayStation 5 exclusive Concord was pulled offline earlier this year, it wasn’t clear yet whether Sony would spend time to rework the game or simply shut it down for good. Now we have the answer, and it’s the worst case scenario for the game’s players and developers alike. Sony is abandoning Concord, dissolving the studio that made it, and closing an unrelated mobile game studio while it’s at it.
Sony announced that it’s closing Firewalk Studios in an October 29 press release from PlayStation CEO Hermen Hulst. “After much thought, we have determined the best path forward is to permanently sunset the game and close the studio,” he said. ”I want to thank all of Firewalk for their craftsmanship, creative spirit and dedication.” READ MORE from Inverse
What are farmers in the EU required to do to protect the environment?
Greenhouse gases and pollutants from farms urgently need reducing but green policies have triggered furious protests. READ MORE from The Guardian
Monday, November 04, 2024
BOOK REVIEW: “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho
The Alchemist by Paulo CoelhoMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is my number four book of all time. I don’t have a rounded figure of my favorite books’ list such as a Top 5 or Top 10 or even a Top 20. I just have a Top 4 and that’s all: all other books are somewhere after that in no particular favorite ranking. I have blogged about my Top 4 books over the course of the last two weeks.
Coelho’s prose in the “Alchemist” could be easily mistaken for poetry. His language flows so smooth.
It’s a compelling exploration of self-discovery, spirituality, and the pursuit of one's dreams.
The message is that as human beings we will not settle ourselves until we have embarked on a journey of self-discovery: we will touch fire to confirm it’s hot even if we are previously given warnings; but that may not be a bad thing because experience makes us grow and lead fulfilled lives.
Simple and yet profound, the novel uses simple language and a straightforward narrative to convey complex ideas about life, purpose, and the universe. This accessibility allows readers from diverse backgrounds to connect with the story and its underlying themes.
A central idea in the book is the "Personal Legend," which represents an individual's unique destiny or life purpose. Santiago, the protagonist, embarks on a journey to fulfill his Personal Legend, which involves finding a treasure buried at the Egyptian pyramids. However, as we learn from our own lives, the metaphorical treasure is inside us or sometimes near us and we don’t need external sources to look for it in order for our minds to enjoy calm and peace. In a nutshell, true happiness, contentment, and joy lie inside us.
Hence, the story emphasizes the importance of the journey itself, rather than solely the destination. Santiago encounters numerous challenges and experiences along the way, which ultimately shape his character and understanding of the world.
Inspirational and motivational, the novel has become a popular choice for readers seeking inspiration and motivation. Its message of following one's dreams and trusting in the universe has resonated with millions of people worldwide.
It has cross-cultural themes in that the novel draws on elements from various cultures, including Arabic, African, and Spanish traditions. This cross-cultural approach adds depth and richness to the story.
Coelho has fashioned a timeless tale, a masterpiece and a gem of a book that encourages readers to embrace their passions, overcome obstacles, and believe in the power of their dreams.
View all my reviews
Tunnel Beach Dunedin: Cliffs, Tunnels & Ocean Views
WATCH: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YhA2jjiaqbM
OUTDOOR AND TRAVEL: Join us as we explore the captivating Tunnel Beach in Dunedin, New Zealand! Known for its dramatic sandstone cliffs, hand-carved tunnel, and secluded beach, this spot is a must-visit – but currently, the track is closed due to safety concerns. The Department of Conservation has temporarily shut down the track after heavy rains caused multiple large slips (as of Nov. 2024). In this video, we take a virtual tour, sharing highlights of Tunnel Beach's geology, history, and safety tips for future visits. Stay tuned for updates on when it will reopen!
Maldives ends bonding option for tobacco
Tobacco products can no longer be bonded in the Maldives following an amendment of the island nation’s customs regulations, reports The Edition. READ MORE from Tobacco Reporter
Maldives raises import duties on tobacco products, electronic smoking devices
Effective from 1 November 2024, the amendment establishes an import duty of 50% plus MVR 8 per item on cigarettes and beedies. General tobacco products, including prepared tobacco and alternatives, will incur a duty of 200%. READ FULL REPORT from Maldives Republic
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