Blue Origin will launch six tourists aboard space after a nearly two-year hiatus

 

Blue Origin's tourist rocket is set to launch passengers into space for the first time in nearly two years, ending a pause caused by a failed unmanned test flight.

The New Shepard rocket and capsule will lift off during a window that opens at 8:30 a.m. CT (9:30 a.m. ET) from Blue Origin's facility on a private ranch in West Texas. A live stream of the mission , called NS-25, will begin at approximately 7:50 a.m. CT (8:50 a.m. ET) on the website of the company founded by Jeff Bezos.

NS-25, Blue Origin's seventh crewed flight to date, will carry six clients aboard the capsule: venture capitalist Mason Angel; Sylvain Chiron, founder of the French craft brewery Brasserie Mont-Blanc; software engineer and entrepreneur Kenneth L. Hess; retired accountant Carol Schaller; aviator Gopi Thotakura; and Ed Dwight, a retired U.S. Air Force captain selected by President John F. Kennedy in 1961 to be the country's first black astronaut candidate.

Despite completing his training at Aerospace Research Pilot School and receiving an Air Force recommendation, Dwight ultimately did not enter NASA's Astronaut Corps. He later became a businessman and sculptor; A new National Geographic documentary about black astronauts, "The Space Race ," highlights Dwight's pioneering story.

“I had no intention of being an astronaut. That was the last thing on my bucket list,” Dwight said in the documentary. “But once they gave me the challenge, everything changed.”

Ed Dwight attends a January screening of the documentary "The Space Race" in Houston. At 90, Dwight is headed to space more than 60 years after President John F. Kennedy selected him as the country's first black astronaut candidate. (Credit: Bob Levey/Getty Images)

Dwight will complete that challenge and reach the edge of space at the age of 90, making him the oldest person to venture to such heights, according to a Blue Origin spokesperson.

Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck are looking for their love nest in New York. Look at them!

 

Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck are looking for a new love nest

2024 Backgrid/The Grosby Group

Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck were spotted exploring real estate options in New York's Upper East Side. The couple toured different properties, looking for a future love nest that would be spacious and bright, with space for their five children and with the best views of the city.

Shakira, tennis fan

2024 Media Punch/The Grosby Group

Shakira was photographed watching the match between Jannik Sinner and Grigor Dimitrov during the men's final of the Miami Open at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. The artist looked phenomenal in a huge pair of futuristic glasses, a cream-colored corset with a zipper in the middle and a white miniskirt.

Bianca Censori leaves little to the imagination

2024 Backgrid/The Grosby Group

Bianca Censori, Kanye West 's current wife , caused a stir on social media after her recent appearance in Oxnard, California. The young woman was seen wearing a provocative outfit that left little to her imagination.

Sofía Vergara with her boyfriend

5 luxury experiences that cost much less than you think

 Surely you often see images of people with high purchasing power indulging in those whims that you think you will never be able to enjoy. You're wrong. It is true that there are experiences that escape the vast majority of mortals, but there are many others that, behind that appearance of exclusivity , are much more attainable than you imagine.

And today we are going to give you some examples so that you can take them into account... and give yourself the gift you deserve.

Tasting oysters by boat in the Algarve (Portugal)

Oysters and boat in the same sentence? That can only mean one thing: a big investment. And no, it is not like that at all. On the beautiful coast of Portugal it is possible to book excursions in which you can taste such a delicacy while you let yourself be rocked by the waves of the Atlantic Ocean.

The plans are different depending on which agency or service you hire it with: you can, for example, take a ride of about 3 hours aboard a sailing catamaran , which leaves from Vilamoura and arrives in São Rafael, while you eat oysters and drink a good sparkling wine.

Who doesn't like tasting oysters on board a boat? - Image: Kate Tepl/Unsplash (Kate Tepl/Unsplash)

Another idea that you will also love, in case you don't like sailing (but you do like eating as if you were rich), is to visit an oyster farm in the Ria Formosa, where your guides will tell you how they are produced and processed. They are raised from birth until they reach the plate. Obviously once you have discovered all their secrets, you can proceed to taste them, accompanying them, of course, with a good Portuguese white wine.

Helicopter ride over Barcelona (Spain)

Barcelona is always one of the most visited tourist destinations when someone travels to Spain (even to Europe). The beautiful City of Barcelona has a long and rich architectural, cultural and gastronomic history, making it one of the most interesting enclaves.

When it comes to exploring it, you can do it in many ways, but without a doubt a special way to see it is from a bird's eye view , from the air. That's just what you can do aboard a helicopter specially designed for it.

A helicopter ride along the coast of Barcelona is a great (and luxurious) plan - Image: Benjamin Gremler/Unsplash (Benjamin Gremler/Unsplash)

There are different agencies that offer the possibility of taking different tours with very varied prices depending on the area and time. The most economical offers the possibility of seeing the coast, its beaches up close and the city a little further away. The entire experience lasts about 25 minutes (7 minutes for the flight itself) and the maximum number of seats is only 5 people.

Save a fortune traveling to other countries for your Botox, dentist and hair appointments

 

How far would you travel for your next hair appointment? A young influencer who loves hair extensions is apparently willing to travel up to 10,000 kilometers for the perfect look, as the latest post-inflationary wellness and beauty trend in the United States grows in popularity.

Bryn Elise Wright of Colorado says she has saved more than $40,000 on medical and cosmetic treatments by doing “beauty tourism.” In the last three years, she has flown to 14 countries to get extensions, visit the dentist, get Botox, or simply get a new tattoo.

It all started in 2021, when her regular stylist raised the prices of the extension placement service to US$4,500. “ It was astronomical, so I started thinking about other options . ” I started looking abroad,” the 29-year-old influencer told SWNS.

Wright found a stylist in Istanbul on Instagram who offered her the same service for just $500. “At first I thought there was a lack of communication, but we ended up planning the trip and it was great. I was amazed ,” she recalled.

When she was encouraged to share her experience as a “beauty tourist,” Wright began to gain greater visibility on TikTok , where she now has almost 300,000 followers and more than 5 million views. “This shouldn't surprise anyone who's seen me get my dental work done in Thailand or my tattoos in Colombia , but I'm obsessed with beauty tourism!” she said in a video with 11 million views.

Today March 31st is International Transgender Day of Visibility. This is what you should know

 

Today, transgender and non-binary people around the world commemorate International Transgender Day of Visibility .

This is what you should know.

How it began?

Transgender Day of Visibility was founded in 2009 by Rachel Crandall, a Michigan-based transgender activist and executive director of Transgender Michigan. It began as an awareness day to celebrate the successes of transgender and gender non-conforming people and is an important day for the LGBTQ community.

While Transgender Day of Remembrance is held every year on November 20 to commemorate transgender people who have lost their lives as a result of anti-transgender violence , Transgender Day of Visibility is a day dedicated to honor and empower the lives of transgender and non-binary people.

The day is celebrated annually on March 31.

The importance of transgender representation

This day illustrates the importance of transgender representation around the world, especially as transgender and gender non-conforming people face risks every day.

According to a 2021 Gallup poll, 11.3% of LGBT adults identify as transgender; However, when it comes to media representation, there are only 29 transgender characters in original primetime, cable and streaming broadcasts, according to the media advocacy organization GLAAD.

Why it matters: Recent surveys show that a quarter of people in the U.S. say they personally know someone who is transgender, meaning most Americans learn about the transgender community from what they see in entertainment media. Because of this, GLAAD says, it is imperative that entertainment media do a good job when addressing transgender stories.

How to be a good ally

Here are some ways to support the transgender community today:

Look for stories from transgender creators . Look for authentic stories and media that have been created by the transgender community, such as the Transgender Film Center, a nonprofit organization that supports transgender filmmakers and their projects.

Call your local LGBTQ center . See what kind of help they need, whether it's volunteering or offering a service you're good at.

Educate yourself. Allies can start by learning the basic terminology surrounding the transgender community. For example, people often confuse sexual orientation and gender identity. There are many places online that share tips on how to be a good ally.

Many transgender people are happy to talk about their experience, but allies should not always assume that is the case. There are so many resources available to help you if you want to learn more about the community and how to provide support.

Nestlé withdraws cups with the Starbucks logo in the United States

 

The firm Nestlé USA has withdrawn from the US market some 440,000 metal cups with the Starbucks brand logo due to dangers of burns and lacerations, the Consumer Product Safety Commission reported this Thursday ( CPSC).

The notice refers to four gift packages sold during the 2023 holiday season that include a metal-coated ceramic mug with a capacity of 11 and 16 ounces (0.3 and 0.5 liters).

The recall of cups made in China affects about 440,500 units, the agency said.

"Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled cups and can return them to the point of purchase or contact Nestlé USA for a full refund," CPSC said.

This is because there have been at least 12 incidents of overheating or breaking cups resulting in 10 injuries, including nine serious burns or blisters to fingers and hands, and one cut to a finger.

These gift packs were on sale at Target and Walmart stores, and at the Nexcom chain of military retail stores, between November 2023 and January 2024, with prices ranging from $10 to $20.

More than 3,000 people evacuated in central China after a forest fire breaks out

 China activated an emergency response to control a forest fire that began to spread this Saturday in the province of Sichuan, in the center of the country, and left 3,396 evacuees.

As reported this Sunday by the provincial emergency management department, the fire began on Saturday afternoon in Baizi village, Yajiang county, Garze Tibetan prefecture.

At this time no casualties have been reported as firefighters continue working to extinguish the fire.

First Day of the Year Traditions Across Europe

 As the clock strikes midnight on New Year's Eve, Europe awakens to a tapestry of traditions that mark the commencement of January 1st. Each country embraces the first day of the year with unique customs, reflecting a blend of cultural heritage, regional flavors, and shared joy. In this journey across Europe, we explore the diverse and captivating traditions that shape the dawn of a new year in Romania, Czech Republic, Denmark, Italy, England, Germany, and Spain.

Romania: A Tapestry of Folklore and Fortune

In Romania, the first day of the year is steeped in folklore and superstition. One intriguing tradition is the "Capra" dance, where performers adorned in colorful costumes and masks mimic the movements of a goat, symbolizing the expulsion of malevolent spirits. It's a lively spectacle that captivates both locals and visitors.

As the new year unfolds, Romanians engage in a unique custom known as "Sorcova." Youngsters visit neighbors and relatives, reciting well-wishing verses and gently tapping them with a decorated stick. This act is believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the year ahead.

Czech Republic: A Symphony of Fireworks and Feasts

In the Czech Republic, the first day of the year is celebrated with a grand display of fireworks that illuminates the night sky. The spectacle is not only a visual feast but also a collective expression of joy and anticipation for the possibilities of the coming year.

Czechs also embrace the tradition of "Dinner for Good Luck." The first meal of the year often includes lentils, a symbol of prosperity, and pork, representing progress and wealth. Families gather around tables laden with traditional dishes, sharing laughter and creating lasting memories.

Denmark: Leaping Into the New Year

Denmark welcomes the new year with a unique and exhilarating tradition known as "Gå På Skattejagt." Translated as "Go On Treasure Hunt," this custom involves crafting intricate clues that lead participants on a journey to find a treasure hidden by the host. It's a playful and engaging way to commence the year with a spirit of adventure and camaraderie.

Additionally, Danes partake in the tradition of leaping off chairs at the stroke of midnight. As the clock chimes, family and friends climb onto chairs and jump into the new year together. It's a symbolic act of leaving behind the old and embracing the new, both literally and figuratively.

Italy: A Symphony of Bells and Red Underwear

In Italy, the first day of the year is accompanied by the enchanting sound of church bells ringing at midnight. The pealing bells are believed to dispel negativity and welcome a year filled with positivity and good fortune.

Italians also have a curious tradition related to the choice of undergarments. Wearing red underwear on New Year's Eve is believed to bring love, luck, and fertility. Shops abound with red lingerie in the days leading up to the new year as Italians prepare to embrace this quirky yet charming custom.

England: First-Footing and Auld Lang Syne

In England, the tradition of "first-footing" takes center stage as the clock strikes twelve. The first person to enter a home after midnight, known as the "first-footer," is believed to bring good luck for the coming year. This visitor often carries symbolic gifts like coins, bread, and salt, representing wealth, food, and flavor.

No New Year's Eve celebration in England is complete without the singing of "Auld Lang Syne." This classic Scottish song, penned by Robert Burns, is sung with gusto as revelers join hands, creating a poignant and nostalgic moment that transcends time.

Exploring New Year's Eve and New Year Traditions Across the United States

 

As the clock ticks down to midnight on December 31st, the United States transforms into a kaleidoscope of celebrations, with diverse traditions reflecting the nation's rich cultural mosaic. From coast to coast, Americans bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new with a tapestry of rituals, festivities, and unique customs that make New Year's Eve and New Year's Day truly special. Let's embark on a detailed exploration of these vibrant traditions.

New Year's Eve: The Countdown Extravaganza

1. Times Square Ball Drop - New York City:

The iconic Times Square Ball Drop is synonymous with New Year's Eve globally. Over a million revelers gather in the heart of Manhattan, braving the chilly temperatures to witness the descent of the glittering crystal ball, signaling the arrival of the new year. The event is a spectacle of confetti, fireworks, and performances by renowned artists, broadcasted to millions around the world.

2. Fireworks Extravaganzas:

New Year Celebrations Across Europe

 

As the clock strikes midnight on December 31st, Europe comes alive with a myriad of New Year's traditions, each rooted in the rich tapestry of its cultural heritage. From the dazzling fireworks illuminating city skylines to the age-old customs passed down through generations, the continent offers a diverse array of celebrations. Join us on a journey through Europe as we explore the enchanting New Year's traditions that add charm and character to the continent's year-end festivities.

The Biodiversity Crisis: How We Can Protect Our Fauna and Flora

 In recent decades, the world has witnessed an accelerated loss of biodiversity, a crisis that threatens the very existence of numerous species and endangers the stability of ecosystems. This worrying decline in the diversity of life on Earth, known as the Biodiversity Crisis, requires urgent attention and concrete action to reverse its devastating effects.

Biodiversity: A Treasure in Danger

Biodiversity is the variety of life in all its forms, from microorganisms to plants and animals. However, factors such as habitat destruction, pollution, climate change and overexploitation of resources have led to an alarming decline in biological diversity. Species loss not only affects individual organisms, but also has serious consequences for humanity as we depend on biodiversity for food, medicine and essential ecosystem services.

Causes of the Crisis

Unlocking the Power of Your iPhone: Top 20 Must-Have Apps in 2024

 In the fast-paced world we live in, our smartphones have become indispensable tools for managing various aspects of our lives. Among these, the iPhone stands out as a versatile device, offering a myriad of applications to enhance productivity, entertainment, and overall functionality. Here are the top 20 apps that you should always have on your iPhone:

1. Google Maps: Navigate seamlessly and discover new places with real-time traffic updates.
2. Evernote: Keep your thoughts organized with this powerful note-taking app.
3. WhatsApp: Stay connected with friends and family through text, voice, and video messages.
4. Spotify: Enjoy a world of music with personalized playlists and recommendations.
5. Pocket: Save articles, videos, and web pages for later consumption, even offline.

Embracing the Spooky Spectacle: Timeless Halloween Traditions

 

As the leaves crunch beneath our feet and the air turns crisp, the enchanting season of Halloween emerges, bringing with it a tapestry of traditions that have stood the test of time. From eerie decorations to costumes that spark creativity, Halloween traditions weave a magical web that captivates both the young and the young at heart.

1. Decorative Delights:

One of the quintessential Halloween traditions is transforming homes into spooky sanctuaries. From cobwebs and creepy crawlies to grinning pumpkins with flickering candles, the art of decorating is a cherished ritual. Each neighborhood becomes a canvas of creativity, as families compete to create the most hauntingly beautiful displays.

2. Costume Capers:

Dressing up in costumes is a Halloween tradition that transcends generations. From pint-sized witches and superheroes to elaborate adult ensembles, the thrill of becoming someone—or something—else for a night is a source of boundless joy. Costume parties, parades, and contests bring communities together in a shared celebration of imagination.

3. Trick-or-Treat Triumphs:

Unveiling the Digital Nomad Lifestyle: A Guide to the Modern Wanderer

 In an era defined by connectivity and mobility, the term "digital nomad" has emerged as a buzzword, embodying a lifestyle that seamlessly integrates work and travel. But what exactly is a digital nomad, and what sets this breed of professionals apart in the contemporary workforce?

Defining the Digital Nomad:

A digital nomad is an individual who leverages digital technology to work remotely and is not bound to a fixed location. Unlike traditional workers confined to office cubicles, digital nomads have the flexibility to carry out their tasks from anywhere with an internet connection. This lifestyle allows them to explore the world, experience different cultures, and escape the constraints of a traditional 9-to-5 job.

Characteristics of a Digital Nomad:

Remote Work Enthusiast:

Digital nomads thrive on jobs that can be performed online. Whether it's freelance writing, web development, digital marketing, or other remote-friendly professions, the essence of being a digital nomad lies in the ability to execute work tasks without being tethered to a specific physical location.

Embracing Flexibility:

Flexibility is the cornerstone of the digital nomad lifestyle. These individuals often have a flexible work schedule, allowing them to adapt to different time zones and work at hours that align with their productivity peaks. This flexibility extends to their living arrangements, allowing them to switch locations frequently.

Global Oases for Digital Nomads: Top Destinations to Live and Work Remotely

 In the age of digital nomadism, the world becomes a playground for those seeking to merge work and wanderlust. As the internet connects us globally, a new breed of professionals has emerged, free from the constraints of traditional office spaces. If you're ready to untether from your desk and explore the world while working remotely, here are some of the best places to live the digital nomad dream.

1. Bali, Indonesia: The Island of the Gods

Bali has become synonymous with the digital nomad lifestyle, offering a captivating blend of culture, affordability, and stunning landscapes. With an abundance of coworking spaces in towns like Ubud and Canggu, along with a vibrant community of like-minded individuals, Bali provides an ideal environment for remote work. From lush rice terraces to pristine beaches, Bali's diverse scenery makes it a top choice for those seeking both productivity and adventure.

2. Chiang Mai, Thailand: The Rose of the North

Nestled in the mountainous region of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is a haven for digital nomads seeking a tranquil yet stimulating environment. With its low cost of living, reliable internet, and an array of coworking spaces, Chiang Mai has earned its place as a favorite among remote workers. The city's rich cultural heritage and delicious street food add an extra layer of charm to the digital nomad experience.

Halloween Around the World: Countries Embracing the Spooky Spirit

 

Halloween, with its origins in Celtic traditions and later adopted and transformed by various cultures, is a celebration that has transcended borders. While it is most commonly associated with the United States, several countries around the world have embraced the spooky spirit of Halloween in their unique ways. Let's take a journey to explore some of the countries where Halloween is celebrated with enthusiasm and a touch of local flavor.

1. United States: The Halloween Epicenter

The United States is undoubtedly the heart of Halloween celebrations. From elaborate decorations and haunted houses to the quintessential trick-or-treating, Halloween permeates every corner of American culture. Cities like Salem, Massachusetts, known for its historical witch trials, and New Orleans, with its vibrant and mystical atmosphere, take Halloween festivities to the next level. The U.S. is a melting pot of Halloween traditions, blending ancient customs with modern creativity.

Embracing Autumn's Splendor: The Best Cities to Visit This Fall

 As the leaves turn vibrant hues of red and gold and the crisp scent of autumn fills the air, cities around the world transform into enchanting havens for those seeking the beauty of the fall season. From charming cobblestone streets to parks ablaze with autumnal colors, here's a curated list of the best cities to visit this fall, where nature and urban landscapes seamlessly blend to create a symphony of seasonal delights.

1. Kyoto, Japan: A Tapestry of Fall Foliage

Known for its breathtaking temples and traditional gardens, Kyoto is a mesmerizing destination that comes alive with autumn foliage during the fall months. The city's iconic Kiyomizu-dera and Tofuku-ji temples are surrounded by fiery red and golden leaves, creating a picturesque landscape that embodies the essence of autumn in Japan. Explore the historic Gion district, adorned with traditional machiya houses, and savor the beauty of the changing seasons.

Errors that cost us a lot of money when we travel

The first thing we have to say to ourselves in the mirror is that: we may be paying more when we organize a trip, and especially when we are on our way.

For this reason, veteran travelers and industry experts have wanted to warn us about certain hidden fees that we must take into account the next time we leave the nest, looking for an appetizing vacation.

According to an article published by Reader's Digest , travel expert and blogger Elizabeth Blasi recommends taking an extra time to review the most popular reviews about tourist places, before clicking on the "book" button.

Blasi says that while many sites such as Expedia and Booking.com make it super simple to define an itinerary, many charge up to three times more than others that also offer the exact service.

"Read the comments on TripAdvisor or on Yelp, call the travel company directly and see what's included in your tour," he says. One should also compare the cost of renting a car if you want to travel to a place of interest, to determine if it is better to hire a driver for the entire day.

These are some common mistakes and times when it is very likely that we are paying more:

How to achieve the cheapest airline tickets: 7 tips to save

It is no secret that the volatility of prices when buying a plane ticket is reminiscent of the whirlwind of buying a share in the stock market, with prices that change very frequently.

While the airline business and new technologies have revolutionized ticket purchasing processes, there are practices that give good results when caring for money while traveling.

Before, when airlines were few, making a reservation at the last minute was the best trick to save, since airlines needed to sell their empty seats urgently. That changed a lot with the numerous low cost airlines. Now the ways to search for savings are a bit more sophisticated.

Consider these seven tips the next time you buy plane tickets.

Better day and time to buy

A recent Expedia study shows that when we travel we spend more than expected. If you want to save on your flight, skip a few minutes of your obligations and buy the ticket on a Tuesday, as at 3:00 PM, Eastern time. Why? Many airlines release discounts that day early and that's when the competition starts. If you give some time to get on the peak of offers, at mid afternoon there are low prices after 4:00 PM. they will have vanished.

Qatar Airways inaugurates the world's longest commercial flight

Catamaran airline Qatar Airways inaugurated the world's longest commercial flight between Doha and Auckland on Sunday, a company spokesman said.

The flight QR920 left the capital of Qatar at 05H02 local (02H02 GMT) and is scheduled to land in Auckland (New Zealand) at 07H30 local (18H30 GMT).

The Boeing 777 plans to cover the route in 16 hours and 20 minutes, cross ten time zones, fly over five countries and travel a total distance of 14,535 kilometers before arriving in New Zealand.

For the return flight, the flight takes 17 hours and 30 minutes because of contrary winds, the airline's website said.

This is the longest air flight in hours, according to Flightradar specialists24.

Qatar Airways did not give the number of crew on board, but it is known that this type of flights need four pilots and 15 flight attendants and helpers on board.

In March 2016, the Emirates company had launched what was then considered the longest flight in the world, between Dubai and Auckland, a 14,200-kilometer journey.