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Prince Charles and Camilla to embark on first royal tour since 2019

<p dir="ltr">The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall are preparing to head off on their first royal tour in almost two years, Clarence House has announced.</p> <p dir="ltr">Charles and Camilla will visit Jordan and Egypt from November 16 to 19 as representatives of the Queen and the British government. It is the first royal tour to take place since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic (as opposed to brief visits).</p> <p dir="ltr">The couple will visit holy sites and attend interfaith events aimed at promoting tolerance between different religions. Climate change and the importance of girls’ education will also be highlighted during the visit, which will take place after the COP26 summit in Glasgow next week, and which the couple will also be attending. Queen Elizabeth, Prince William and Kate will also be attending the historic climate summit.</p> <p dir="ltr">While visiting Jordan and Egypt, Prince Charles will take part in conversations about the value of religious freedom and respect for other people’s beliefs, subjects of particular importance in countries that are home to holy sites for Muslims, Christians, Jews, and other religions. Charles has previously warned against the dangers of religious persecution and extremism, including to Christian communities in the Middle East.</p> <p dir="ltr">Jordan’s role in taking in so many refugees, including Palestinians and Syrians, in a region that has faced much conflict will be recognised, and Camilla will see work in Jordan that is being done by Queen Rania to keep girls in school and protect vulnerable children and mothers. In addition to visits to historic sites such as the city of Alexandria, there will be a focus on the importance of teaching crafts skills necessary to maintain and preserve such sites.</p> <p dir="ltr">The tour will also include a showcase of the monuments built for a far more ancient royal dynasty, with a reception overlooking the Pyramids of Giza.</p> <p dir="ltr">Charles last visited Jordan in 2015, and Camilla in 2013. The couple last visited Egypt in 2006.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Jacob King-WPA Pool/Getty Images</em></p>

International Travel

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They paid WHAT? 5 most expensive celeb houses of 2019

<p>Celebrities live a life of luxury, so it makes sense that these luxuries would also extend to the places they call home. Here are the 5 most expensive real estate transactions done by celebrities for 2019.</p> <p><strong>5. Tommy Hilfiger</strong></p> <p>The 68-year-old fashion designer and founder of Tommy Hilfiger finally sold his Plaza Hotel penthouse after a shocking 11 years on the market. The home is 6,050 square feet and has just four bedrooms. There is a formal dining room that features mirrored walls and the penthouse features a grand salon with 10-foot high ceilings, according to<span> </span><em><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/watch-tommy-and-dee-hilfiger-give-a-tour-of-their-stunning-plaza-hotel-apartment" target="_blank">Architectural Digest</a></em>.</p> <p>The penthouse sold for a shocking $USD 33.25 million ($NZD 49.93 million).</p> <p><strong>4. Mark Zuckerberg</strong></p> <p>The founder of Facebook kept the details of this sale very private as he purchased a home in Lake Tahoe for $USD 37 million ($NZD 56 million).</p> <p>The Brushwood Estate features a 5,322 square foot main house with six bedrooms as well as a separate guesthouse and a private dock, according to<span> </span><em><a rel="noopener" href="https://variety.com/2019/dirt/news/mark-zuckerberg-lake-tahoe-houses-1203209603/" target="_blank">Variety</a></em>.</p> <p>The home was built in 1964 and also features rolling lawns as well as a lakeview jacuzzi.</p> <p>The home adds to the smaller property he purchased earlier for $USD 22 million ($NZD 33.1 million) and now has a compound of up to 10 acres with 600 feet of uninterrupted lake views.</p> <p><strong>3. Adam Levine and Behati Prinsloo</strong></p> <p>The power couple were ready to say goodbye to their mansion in Beverly Hills, but it wouldn’t be an easy one as their mansion is a three-story Tudor-style home.</p> <p>The sprawling 10,376 foot mansion features five bedrooms, twelve bathrooms and features crown moulding in many of the common living areas on the first floor.</p> <p>The master suite of the mansion includes a lofted ceiling, a private terrace and an en suite bathroom that has a luxurious free-standing tub, according to<span> </span><em><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/ellen-degeneres-buys-adam-levines-beverly-hills-mansion" target="_blank">Architectural Digest</a>.</em></p> <p>The home sold to another power couple Ellen DeGeneres and her wife Portia Di Rossi for $USD 45 million ($NZD 68.05 million).</p> <p><strong>2. Sting</strong></p> <p>The iconic musician bought a luxurious 5,807 square feet penthouse which has three bedrooms and five and a half bathrooms. Although it’s not as large as some of the other mansions, it appears that stars are paying for the location as it’s on Billionaire’s Row at 220 Central Park South, according to<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/news/sting-drops-nearly-96-million-on-penthouse-in-recordbreaking-new-york-building/" target="_blank">realestate.com.au.</a></p> <p>With few details being made public about the actual apartment, there are little to no photos of this listing that he bought for a shocking USD $66 million (NZD$ 99.29 million)</p> <p><strong>1. Jeff Bezos</strong></p> <p>Last but not least, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos purchased a trio of Manhattan apartments for a combined whopping $USD 80 million ($NZD 120.32 million).</p> <p>The sizeable buy included a three-story five-bedroom penthouse apartment as well as the other two units he purchased which overlook Madison Square Park.</p> <p>The combined space of all three units create a massive 17,000 square foot, 12-bedroom estate.</p> <p>The penthouse alone has nearly 6,000 square feet of terraces and has four exposures facing the Madison Square Park. The penthouse also includes a private elevator, a grand ballroom and a library with a marble and glass fireplace, according to<span> </span><em><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.businessinsider.com.au/amazon-ceo-jeff-bezos-buys-manhattan-penthouse-apartment-80-million-2019-6?r=US&amp;IR=T" target="_blank">Business Insider</a></em>.</p> <p><em>Photo credits:</em></p> <p><em>Tommy Hilfiger’s penthouse:<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.cnbc.com/2019/10/17/photos-tommy-hilfigers-nyc-penthouse-sold-for-millions.html" target="_blank">CNBC</a><span> </span>&amp; Sothesby’s International Realty | Travis Mark</em></p> <p><em>Mark Zuckerberg’s Lake Tahoe mansion:<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://variety.com/2019/dirt/news/mark-zuckerberg-lake-tahoe-houses-1203209603/" target="_blank">Variety</a><span> </span>&amp; Oliver Luxury Real Estate</em></p> <p><em>Adam Levine’s Tudor-style mansion:<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/ellen-degeneres-buys-adam-levines-beverly-hills-mansion" target="_blank">Architectural Digest</a><span> </span>&amp; Simon Berlyn / Berlyn Photography 2019</em></p> <p><em>Jeff Bezos’ trio of Manhattan apartments:<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://visualhouse.co/work/212-fifth-avenue/" target="_blank">Visual House</a>­  <span> </span><span> </span></em></p>

Home & Garden

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2019: The year that was for the British Royal Family

<p>It’s been an interesting year for the British royal family. Some royal commentators say that the monarchy hasn’t seen such a disastrous year since 1992, which had Princess Diana writing a tell-all book about the Royal family as well as Fergie being caught having her toes sucked.</p> <p>In a 1992 speech, the Queen described the year as her “annus horribilis”, which is a Latin phrase meaning “horrible year”.</p> <p>“1992 is not a year on which I shall look back with undiluted pleasure,” she said at an event marking the <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.royal.uk/annus-horribilis-speech" target="_blank">40th anniversary of her accession to the throne</a>.</p> <p>However, the year of 2019 is set to give 1992 a run for its money. Let’s take a look back at the year that was 2019 for the British Royal family.</p> <p><strong>The birth of Prince Archie</strong></p> <p>Many were thrilled when it was announced that Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan were expecting their first child.</p> <p>The arrival of newborn Archie was positive until it was announced that the couple would be keeping details of his christening private.</p> <p>The British tabloids were fuming, especially as the couple had used taxpayer money to fund the renovations of Frogmore Cottage.</p> <p>Things only got more intense for the couple as reports came out about Meghan stopping a fan from taking a selfie with her at Wimbledon, where she was there in a “private capacity” supporting long-time friend Serena Williams.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BxNPb_9B0fn/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;"><a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BxNPb_9B0fn/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are pleased to announce they have named their first born child: Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor This afternoon Their Royal Highnesses introduced Her Majesty The Queen to her eighth great-grandchild at Windsor Castle. The Duke of Edinburgh and The Duchess’ mother were also present for this special occasion. Photo credit: Chris Allerton ©️SussexRoyal</a></p> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/sussexroyal/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank"> The Duke and Duchess of Sussex</a> (@sussexroyal) on May 8, 2019 at 8:39am PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The couple also received heavy criticism for using private jets while preaching about environmental concerns.</p> <p><strong>The engagement of Princess Beatrice</strong></p> <p>Princess Beatrice announced her engagement to Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi in September, much to the joy of her parents Prince Andrew and Fergie.</p> <p>The pair have known each other since 2011 but started dating seriously in 2018.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/B23uLfvn8Y3/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;"><a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B23uLfvn8Y3/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">The Duke and Duchess of York are delighted to announce the engagement of Princess Beatrice to Mr Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi. Her Royal Highness and Mr Mapelli Mozzi became engaged in Italy earlier this month. The wedding will take place in 2020. This photograph was taken by Princess Eugenie in Italy. Princess Beatrice and Mr. Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi said; “We are extremely happy to be able to share the news of our recent engagement. We are both so excited to be embarking on this life adventure together and can’t wait to be married.” For more click the link in our bio. 📷 © Princess Eugenie</a></p> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/theroyalfamily/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank"> The Royal Family</a> (@theroyalfamily) on Sep 26, 2019 at 3:13am PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Royal fans are curious as to where the wedding will be held, as her fiancé is Italian. However, Beatrice might decide to have the wedding in England as her family are part of the monarchy.</p> <p><strong>Prince Philip’s car crash</strong></p> <p>Prince Philip got into a car accident in early January and flipped his Land Rover while driving without a seatbelt.</p> <p>The accident occurred outside the Queen’s Sandringham estate, with the 97-year-old Duke saying he was “dazzled by bright sunlight”.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bsv05E2FsEY/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;"><a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bsv05E2FsEY/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">The Duke of Edinburgh Prince Philip was recently involved in a car crash, The Duke (97) was driving a range rover at the Queen's Sandringham estate, when his car collided with another vehicle. . Thankfully by God's grace, he was miraculously left unharmed, the other two people in the car are being treated for minor injuries... The Queen was not with the Duke at the time but is with his side now...I'm so happy that Prince Philip is fine. He's one of my favorite royals! 💕 . The eye witnesses have reported that the Duke was conscious but really shocked by the accident. 🙏🏻 🌹 #PrinceWilliam #katemiddleton #royals #British #uk #unitedkingdom #queenelizabeth #love #George #charlotte #Louis #princeGeorge #royalbaby #princesscharlotte #royalsofuk #princelouis #princessdiana #dukeofcambrige #william #duchessofcambridge #Kate #princephilip #carcrash #accidents #livereport</a></p> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/kensingtonroyalss/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank"> Lovely Cambridge Family 🌻</a> (@kensingtonroyalss) on Jan 17, 2019 at 11:24am PST</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>He flipped into a Kia car containing two women and a nine-month old baby.</p> <p>The Duke suffered criticism for being slow to apologise to the others involved.</p> <p>Kia passenger Emma Fairweather said that she was yet to hear from the Duke after the accident.</p> <p>“I’m lucky to be alive and he hasn’t even said sorry,” she said.</p> <p>“It has been such a traumatic and painful time and I would have expected more of the Royal Family … It could have been so much worse.”</p> <p>Prince Philip later wrote a note saying he was “very sorry” about what happened.</p> <p>“I was somewhat shaken after the accident, but I was greatly relieved that none of you were seriously injured,” he said.</p> <p><strong>The tell-all documentary that solidified rumours of a rift between Prince William and Prince Harry</strong></p> <p>The African tour with Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan was a last-ditch attempt to turn the public favour towards them, but a documentary that saw the duo opening up about pressures of living in the spotlight did just the opposite.</p> <p>Prince Harry explained that mental health required “constant management” and confirmed reports of a rift between himself and his brother Prince William, saying that “we’re certainly on different paths”.</p> <p>“We don’t see each other as much as we used to because we’re so busy … But I love him dearly and the majority of the stuff is created out of nothing,” he said.</p> <p>“But as brothers, you have good days, you have bad days.”</p> <p>Meghan was also criticised for saying that she was struggling to adapt to the “British sensibility of a stiff upper lip”.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/B3w2Qk1n2Ra/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;"><a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B3w2Qk1n2Ra/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">In an upcoming ITV documentary, Meghan Markle opened up about the difficulty and struggle of being in the public eye. In the interview, she admits she has not been ok behind the scenes. 😔 (📸: ITV). . . . . . . . . #princeharry #meghanmarkle #sussexroyak #meghanandharry #harryandmeghan #dutchessofsussex #dukeandduchessofsussex</a></p> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/radaronline/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank"> RadarOnline</a> (@radaronline) on Oct 18, 2019 at 7:46am PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>“I think I really tried to adopt this British sensibility of a stiff upper lip. I tried, I really tried, but I think what that does internally is probably really damaging,” explained Meghan.</p> <p>“The biggest thing I know is that I never thought this would be easy, but I thought it’d be fair, and that’s the part that’s really hard to reconcile. But I don’t know … I’m taking each day as it comes.”</p> <p><strong>Prince Charles shows more signs of taking over for Queen Elizabeth II</strong></p> <p>Prince Charles, now aged 71, is showing no signs of slowing down by consistently carrying out around 500 royal engagements per year.</p> <p>There are rumours that he is going to take over the monarchy and become King once the Queen turns 95, which she will do so in 18 months.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/ByVNAV-Aupa/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;"><a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/ByVNAV-Aupa/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">Today The Queen and The Prince of Wales attended the National Commemorative Event for the 75th anniversary of the D-Day landings at Southsea Common, Portsmouth. Her Majesty and His Royal Highness met D-Day veterans and Heads of State, Heads of Government and Representatives of Leaders of the Allied Nations. D-Day is considered one of the largest military operations in history. It included over 5,000 vessels and ships, nearly 11,000 planes and over 130,000 ground troops. Tomorrow The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall will attend #DDay75 events in Normandy.</a></p> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/clarencehouse/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank"> Clarence House</a> (@clarencehouse) on Jun 5, 2019 at 7:23am PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>This is the same age that Prince Philip withdrew from his public duties.</p> <p>The scandal that surrounds Prince Andrew and his controversial friendship with Jeffrey Epstein thrust Charles into the spotlight and gave him a chance to prove that he can be in charge.</p> <p>A royal source told <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/10430396/prince-charles-andrew-run-the-firm-queen-retire/" target="_blank">The Sun</a>: “The scandal surrounding Andrew and Epstein gave Charles an opportunity to step in to show that he can run The Firm. No one is bigger than the institution of the Royal Family. Not even Andrew, the Queen's favourite son.</p> <p>“Charles recognised that and acted decisively — like the king he may well soon be. This was the moment when Charles stepped up as Prince Regent, the Shadow King.”</p> <p><strong>The scandal surrounding Prince Andrew and his friendship with sex offender Jeffrey Epstein</strong></p> <p>Prince Andrew faced intense media speculation over his friendship with deceased paedophile billionaire Jeffrey Epstein.</p> <p>It was not speculation he handled well, as many watched on in horror during his interview on<span> </span>Newsnight<span> </span>where he gave bizarre responses to questions about his friendship.</p> <p>The interview was described as “nuclear level bad”, with Prince Andrew saying the following:</p> <p>“Do I regret the fact that he [Epstein] has quite obviously conducted himself in a manner unbecoming? Yes.”</p> <p>Interviewer Emily Maitlis said “Unbecoming? He was a sex offender.”</p> <p>Virginia Roberts is one of 16 women who says she was abused by Epstein and claimed that she was forced to have sex with Prince Andrew three times between 2001 and 2002.</p> <p>These are claims that Prince Andrew has aggressively denied, as he claims that he could not have had sex with 17-year-old Roberts on March 10th 2001 as he had been at a Pizza Express in Woking that evening.</p> <p>In the interview, Prince Andrew was told how Roberts had been “very specific” about him and the night that they met, with claims that Prince Andrew was “profusely sweating”.</p> <p>Prince Andrew said that he is unable to sweat.</p> <p>“I didn’t sweat at the time because I had suffered what I would describe as an overdose of adrenaline in the Falklands War when I was shot at and I simply...it was almost impossible for me to sweat,” he explained.</p> <p>Since that interview, he has since stepped down from royal duties after furious public backlash from the interview, ranging to lack of empathy for the victims of Epstein as well as claims that the Duke of York was supportive of the friendship with Epstein until it became publicly unacceptable to do so.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/B5GMamUpy9B/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;"><a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B5GMamUpy9B/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A statement by His Royal Highness The Duke of York KG.</a></p> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/hrhthedukeofyork/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank"> The Duke of York</a> (@hrhthedukeofyork) on Nov 20, 2019 at 10:09am PST</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>However, he has received unwavering support from his ex, Fergie.</p> <p>As the year draws to a close, it’s safe to say that the royal family are eager for a fresh start in 2020.</p>

Family & Pets

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The world’s richest royal in 2019 revealed

<p><span>When you think of royalty, the British royal family might be the first thing that comes to mind – but when it comes to wealth, other royals around the world have the edge.</span></p> <p><span>A ranking of the world’s richest royals, published by <em><a href="https://ceoworld.biz/2019/09/18/these-are-the-worlds-richest-royals-2019/">The CEOWORLD Magazine</a></em>, found that no British royals made it to the top 10.</span></p> <p><span>Earning the top spot was Thailand’s King Maha Vajiralongkorn with an estimated net worth of US$43 billion. Following as a distant second was Brunei’s Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah with US$28 billion.</span></p> <p><span>Middle Eastern royals dominated the Top 10. Saudi Arabia’s King Salman Abdulaziz bin Saud came in third with US$18 billion, while Abu Dhabi’s Emir Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Morocco’s King Mohammed VI took the fourth and fifth place.</span></p> <p><span>Queen Elizabeth II (US$520 million) and Prince Charles (US$420 million) placed at number 11 and 12 respectively, while Prince William and Prince Harry came in at number 15 and 16 with an estimated wealth of US$40 million each.</span></p> <p><strong><span>The wealthiest royals:</span></strong></p> <ol> <li>King Maha Vajiralogkorn, Thailand: $43 billion</li> <li>Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, Brunei: $28 billion</li> <li>King Salman Abdulaziz bin Saud, Saudi Arabia: $18 billion</li> <li>Emir Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi, UAE: $15 billion</li> <li>King Mohammed VI, Morocco: $8.2 billion</li> <li>Prince Hans Adam II, Liechtenstein: $7.2 billion</li> <li>Emir Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai, UAE: $4 billion</li> <li>Grand Duke Henri, Luxembourg: $4 billion</li> <li>Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Qatar: $2.1 billion</li> <li>Prince Albert, Monaco: $1 billion</li> <li>Queen Elizabeth II, UK: $520 million</li> <li>Prince Charles, the Prince of Wales, UK: $420 million</li> <li>King Carl XVI Gustaf, Sweden: $70 million</li> <li>Queen Margrethe, Denmark: $40 million</li> <li>Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, UK: $40 million</li> <li>Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, UK: $40 million</li> <li>Harald V, Norway: $30 million</li> <li>Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, UK: $30 million</li> <li>Felipe VI, Spain: $20 million</li> <li>Kate Middleton, UK: $10 million</li> <li>Meghan Markle, UK: $5 million</li> </ol>

International Travel

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Winning pictures from Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2019 revealed

<p><span>The marmot had not been out of hibernation for long when it ventured out of the burrows – but an encounter with a fox left the rodent slack-jawed and frozen in fear.</span></p> <p><span>The dramatic image, aptly titled <em>The Moment</em>, has earned Chinese photographer Yongqing Bao the Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2019 award, given by London’s Natural History Museum.</span></p> <p><span>“Photographically, it is quite simply the perfect moment,” said chief judge Roz Kidman Cox. </span></p> <p><span>“The expressive intensity of the postures holds you transfixed, and the thread of energy between the raised paws seems to hold the protagonists in perfect balance.”</span></p> <p><span>Cox added that the photograph, which was captured in China’s Qilian Mountains, “captured such a powerful interaction between a Tibetan fox and a marmot – two species key to the ecology of this high-grassland region”.</span></p> <p><span>Natural History Museum director Michael Dixon said the image shows nature’s fragility. </span></p> <p><span>“This compelling picture captures nature’s ultimate challenge – its battle for survival,” Dixon said.</span></p> <p><span>“The area in which this was taken, often referred to as the ‘third pole’ because of the enormous water reserves held by its ice fields, is under threat from dramatic temperature rises like those seen in the Arctic.</span></p> <p><span>“At a time when precious habitats are facing increasing climate pressures, seeing these fleeting yet fascinating moments reminds us of what we need to protect.”</span></p> <p><span>Bao beat out more than 48,000 entries from 100 countries to win the prestigious title.</span></p> <p><span>14-year-old Cruz Erdmann from New Zealand was named Young Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2019 for his portrait of a bigfin reef squid in Lembeh Strait, North Sulawesi, Indonesia.</span></p> <p><span>“To dive in the pitch dark, find this beautiful squid and to be able to photograph it so elegantly, to reveal its wonderful shapes and colours, takes so much skill,” judge Theo Bosboom said.</span></p> <p><span>“What a resounding achievement for such a young photographer.”</span></p> <p><span>The Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition celebrates the world’s best nature photography. The winning images are evaluated by a panel of international experts for their artistic composition, technical innovation and truthful interpretation of the natural world.</span></p> <p><span>Scroll through the gallery to see the winning pictures from the competition.</span></p>

Beauty & Style

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These are the world’s best bars for 2019

<p>The world’s best bars for 2019 have been revealed.</p> <p>The World’s 50 Best Bars, which has compiled an annual ranking of bars around the world since 2009, collected votes from more than 500 drink experts across the globe, including bartenders, cocktail specialists, consultants and drinks writers.</p> <p>Topping the list is New York’s Dante, a historic bar which was originally established in 1915 and reopened in 2015.</p> <p>“The measure of a bar is the experience of its customers – in hospitality, drinks and food Dante has the fundamentals down to a fine art, earning the deserved title of The World’s Best Bar 2019,” the list said.</p> <p>Apart from the restaurant-bar’s collection of Negronis, the panel also recommended the Garibaldi, which consists of Campari and ‘fluffy’ orange juice.</p> <p>Dante’s owner Linden Pride said he “could not be more honoured” to win the award. “We will continue to focus on our approach to hospitality and creating those special moments for every guest that comes through our door,” Pride told <span><a href="https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/worlds-best-bar-2019/index.html"><em>CNN Travel</em></a></span>.</p> <p>The UK was also well-represented on the list with 10 bars making appearances. London’s Connaught Bar placed second, emerging as The Best Bar in Europe awardee, while American Bar earned the number five spot and the Legend of the List award.</p> <p>From Asia, six Singapore bars made the list with the chart-topper Atlas coming in at number eight. The Parkview Square bar was noted for its Great Gatsby-esque interior and impressive drink collection, which boasts more than 1,300 different labels of gin.</p> <p>Australia’s only entry was Sydney’s Maybe Sammy at number 43. Located in The Rocks, the hotel bar received praises for its “inventive and delicious cocktail list, luxe surrounds and an attention to detail” as well as “great hospitality”.</p> <p><span><a href="https://www.worlds50bestbars.com/fifty-best-bars-list-2019/?ist=1"><strong>The World’s 50 Best Bars 2019</strong></a></span>:</p> <ol> <li>Dante (New York)</li> <li>Connaught Bar (London)</li> <li>Florería Atlántico (Buenos Aires)</li> <li>The NoMad (New York)</li> <li>American Bar (London)</li> <li>The Clumsies (Athens)</li> <li>Attaboy (New York)</li> <li>Atlas (Singapore)</li> <li>The Old Man (Hong Kong)</li> <li>Licorería Limantour (Mexico City)</li> <li>Manhattan (Singapore)</li> <li>Native (Singapore)</li> <li>Carnaval (Lima)</li> <li>Katana Kitten (New York)</li> <li>Guilhotina (São Paulo)</li> <li>Three Sheets (London)</li> <li>Himkok (Oslo)</li> <li>High Five (Tokyo)</li> <li>Salmón Gurú (Madrid)</li> <li>Paradiso (Barcelona)</li> <li>Indulge Experimental Bistro (Taipei)</li> <li>The Dead Rabbit (New York)</li> <li>Coupette (London)</li> <li>The SG Club (Tokyo)</li> <li>Dr. Stravinsky (Barcelona)</li> <li>Employees Only (New York)</li> <li>El Copitas (St. Petersburg)</li> <li>Scout (London)</li> <li>Jigger &amp; Pony (Singapore)</li> <li>Operation Dagger (Singapore)</li> <li>Baba Au Rum (Athens)</li> <li>La Factoría, (San Juan, Puerto Rico)</li> <li>Presidente (Buenos Aires)</li> <li>Schumann's (Munich)</li> <li>Speak Low (Shanghai)</li> <li>Little Red Door (Paris)</li> <li>Linje Tio (Stockholm)</li> <li>The Old Man (Singapore)</li> <li>Lyaness (London)</li> <li>Happiness Forgets (London)</li> <li>Swift (London)</li> <li>Trick Dog (San Francisco)</li> <li>Maybe Sammy (Sydney)</li> <li>1930 (Milan)</li> <li>Sober Company (Shanghai)</li> <li>Electric Bing Sutt (Beirut)</li> <li>Kwānt (London)</li> <li>Artesian (London)</li> <li>Coa (Hong Kong)</li> <li>Jerry Thomas Speakeasy (Rome)</li> </ol>

International Travel

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The world’s most powerful passports for 2019 revealed

<p><span>Japan and Singapore have emerged as the world’s most travel-friendly passports this year.</span></p> <p><span>The two countries offer their passport holders access to 190 countries around the world without needing a visa, according to the quarterly Henley Passport Index.</span></p> <p><span>Taking the joint second place are South Korea, Germany and Finland, with access to 188 countries while Denmark, Italy, and Luxembourg are in third place with citizens being able to visit 187 countries without needing a visa in advance.</span></p> <p><span>France, Spain and Sweden followed in number four with a score of 186.</span></p> <p><span>According to <a rel="noopener" href="https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/henley-index-world-best-passport-2019-intl/index.html" target="_blank">Henley &amp; Partners</a>, the index’s ranking goes beyond hassle-free travel.</span></p> <p><span>“Our ongoing research has shown that when we talk about ‘passport power’, we are discussing more than simply the destinations a holder can travel to without acquiring a visa in advance,” said Dr Christian H Kaelin, chairman of Henley &amp; Partners and the creator of the passport index. </span></p> <p><span>“Often, there is a strong correlation between visa freedom and other benefits such as business and investment freedom, independence of the judiciary, fiscal health, and property rights.”</span></p> <p><strong><span>The best passports to hold in 2019</span></strong><span>:</span></p> <ol> <li><span> Japan, Singapore (190 destinations)</span></li> <li><span> Finland, Germany, South Korea (188)</span></li> <li><span> Denmark, Italy, Luxembourg (187)</span></li> <li><span> France, Spain, Sweden (186)</span></li> <li><span> Austria, Netherlands, Portugal (185)</span></li> <li><span> Belgium, Canada, Greece, Ireland, Norway, United Kingdom, United States, Switzerland (184)</span></li> <li><span> Malta, Czech Republic (183)</span></li> <li><span> New Zealand (182)</span></li> <li><span> Australia, Lithuania, Slovakia (181)</span></li> <li><span> Hungary, Iceland, Latvia, Slovenia (180)</span></li> </ol> <p><strong><span>The worst passports to hold in 2019:</span></strong></p> <ol start="100"> <li><span> Lebanon, North Korea (39 destinations)</span></li> <li><span> Nepal (38)</span></li> <li><span> Libya, Palestinian Territory, Sudan (37)</span></li> <li><span> Yemen (33)</span></li> <li><span> Somalia, Pakistan (31)</span></li> <li><span> Syria (29)</span></li> <li><span> Iraq (27)</span></li> <li><span> Afghanistan (25)</span></li> </ol>

International Travel

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These are the world’s safest cities to visit in 2019

<p><span>Want to travel with a peace of mind? Consider some of the cities that have been rated as the world’s safest below.</span></p> <p><span>The Economist Intelligence Unit's 2019 Safe Cities Index (SCI) ranked 60 cities across the world based on various factors, including their digital, health, infrastructure and personal safety.</span></p> <p><span>Tokyo was crowned as the world’s safest for the third time in a row, with a score of 92 points out of 100. Following in number two was Singapore with 91.5 points, while Osaka took the third spot with 90.9 points. These cities maintained their top three positions from the two previous indexes in 2015 and 2017.</span></p> <p><span>Two Australian cities made the Top 10 – Sydney came in at number five with 87.9 points, while Melbourne received 87.3 points to place at number 10. </span></p> <p><span>Two European cities – Amsterdam at the fourth place and Copenhagen tying at number eight with Seoul – completed the list along with two American cities, Toronto and Washington, DC at number six and seven respectively.</span></p> <p><span>“Of the 14 European cities in the Index, only Istanbul and Moscow fall below the average score of 71.2 globally,” Irene Mia, global editorial director of The Economist Intelligence Unit told <a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/news-and-advice/tokyo-safest-cities-world-singapore-osaka-amsterdam-economist-intelligence-unit-safe-cities-index-a9083236.html"><em>The Independent.</em></a></span></p> <p><span>Meanwhile, Wellington was down from number 16 in 2017 to the 18<sup>th</sup> place this year.</span></p> <p><span>Hong Kong also dropped from number nine on the list in 2017 to number 20 in this index. The city has been rocked by sometimes-violent political unrest in recent months, leading to <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-49276259">a decline in the number of visitor arrivals and flight bookings</a>. </span></p> <p><span>“The situation in Hong Kong is still dynamic, so at this stage of course we cannot say exactly what the impact on the score will be,” said Simon Baptist, global chief economist and managing director for the Unit in Asia.</span></p> <p><span>“If there are sustained attacks on infrastructure, an ongoing increase in political instability, civil unrest or if relations between the police force and the community cannot be repaired, then it is likely that Hong Kong’s score would fall.”</span></p> <p><span><a href="https://safecities.economist.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/safe-cities-index-eng-web.pdf"><strong>Safe Cities Index</strong></a><strong> 2019:</strong></span></p> <ol> <li><span>Tokyo</span></li> <li><span>Singapore</span></li> <li><span>Osaka</span></li> <li><span>Amsterdam</span></li> <li><span>Sydney</span></li> <li><span>Toronto</span></li> <li><span>Washington, DC</span></li> <li><span>Copenhagen</span></li> <li><span>Seoul</span></li> <li><span>Melbourne</span></li> </ol>

International Travel

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World’s best vineyards for 2019 revealed

<p><span>The world’s best vineyards have been revealed, and two New Zealand wineries make the top 20 list.</span></p> <p><span>In the inaugural World’s Best Vineyard Awards, nearly 500 sommeliers, wine experts and luxury travel correspondents cast their votes among 1,500 nominated wineries around the world. </span></p> <p><span>“Wine is a reflection of its individual surroundings, its terroir,” said the awards founder Andrew Reed. “It’s not just about the wine; it’s a total package.”</span></p> <p><span>Argentinian winery Zuccardi Valle de Uco was crowned as the 2019 winner in July. Located at the footsteps of the Andes Mountains, the World’s Best Vineyards Academy described the winery as “one of the most impressive on the planet”. The family-run business has been making wine since 1960s.</span></p> <p><span>South America dominated the list, with eight Chilean vineyards placing in the top 50 list. Europe also featured prominently with appearances from France, Spain, Portugal, Greece, Germany, Italy, England and Austria.</span></p> <p><span>From the land of the long white cloud, Rippon Vineyard in Wanaka emerged as the best in Australasia at number eight. Following closely was Craggy Range at number 11.</span></p> <p><span>Three South Australian wineries also made the cut. Adelaide Hills’ Penfold’s Magill Estate came in at number 13, while d’Arenberg in McLaren Vale and Seppeltsfield Barossa placed at number 29 and 47 respectively. </span></p> <p><span>Find the full Top 50 list <a href="https://www.worldsbestvineyards.com/top-50/">here</a>.</span></p>

International Travel

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The heartfelt reason why the royal family wore blue to Royal Ascot

<p>The Duchess of Cambridge made international headlines for her heavenly Elie Saab blue look for the very first day of Royal Ascot.</p> <p>The dreamy ensemble was not the only blue look we saw the royal members flaunt during the annual ceremony – Queen Elizabeth, Princess Eugenie, Princess Beatrice and Zara Tindall all wowed royal watcher with their striking blue outfits.</p> <p>The strange occurrence is not at all common within the royal family – as two members being seen in the same colour can be considered as a fashion faux pas.</p> <p>In fact, royals make a conscious effort to dress in strikingly different outfits so seeing five popular royal family members rocking the same vibrant colour is an extraordinary and rare event</p> <p>However, it has been revealed the colour choice was on purpose – and indeed for an incredibly heartfelt reason.</p> <p>The colour blue is believed to be a favourite of the Queen’s, as she wears the shade nearly three times more than any other, according to <em>Vogue</em>.</p> <p>The monarch chose to don the hue for 29 per cent of royal engagements in 2012.</p> <p>Royal insiders suggest the beautiful blue tone worn by five royals during Royal Ascot this year is a nod towards their ultimate Queen and grandmother.</p> <p>The colour blue also has history within the British Royal family, as it is a shade commonly associated with royalty, art, military, business and art.</p> <p>Scroll through the gallery above to see the royal family members wearing heavenly blue during 2019 Royal Ascot.</p>

News

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These are the world's most valuable brands in 2019

<p>Apple has topped <em>Forbes</em>’ list of the world’s most valuable brands for the ninth year in a row.</p> <p>The world’s 100 most valuable brands in 2019 are worth a cumulative US$2.33 trillion (AU$3.34 trillion / NZ$3.52 trillion), increasing by 8 per cent from the previous year according to the magazine’s annual list released in late May.</p> <p>Tech giants dominated the list, led by Apple with a brand value of US$205.5 billion, up 12 per cent over the past year. The company – which was noted for its unique ability to move its customer base from one product category to another – has become the first to cross the $200 billion threshold.</p> <p>Google came in second with US$167.7 billion in brand value, followed by Microsoft (US$123.5 billion) and Amazon (US$97 billion). Facebook rounded up the top five with a value of US$88.9 billion, down 6 per cent over the past 12 months.</p> <p>Brands from 16 countries made the 2019 list. US companies comprised the majority with 56 brands among the top 100, as well as 80 per cent of the top 10. Other prolific countries included Germany with 11 brands, France with seven and Japan with six.</p> <p>No New Zealand companies made the final cut.</p> <p><strong>World’s most valuable brands:</strong></p> <ol> <li>Apple (US$205.5 billion)</li> <li>Google (US$167.7 billion)</li> <li>Microsoft (US$125.3 billion)</li> <li>Amazon (US$97 billion)</li> <li>Facebook (US$88.9 billion)</li> <li>Coca-Cola (US$59.2 billion)</li> <li>Samsung (US$53.1 billion)</li> <li>Disney (US$52.2 billion)</li> <li>Toyota (US$44.6 billion)</li> <li>McDonald’s (US$43.8 billion)</li> </ol> <p>Find the full list <span><a href="https://www.forbes.com/powerful-brands/list/#tab:rank">here</a></span>.</p>

Retirement Income

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Why reducing unemployment should have been a focus for NZ's well-being budget

<p>In its much awaited first<span> </span><a href="https://www.budget.govt.nz/budget/2019/wellbeing/index.htm">well-being budget</a>, New Zealand’s coalition government missed a major trick in not making unemployment one of their central well-being priorities.</p> <p>As of March 2019, New Zealand’s unemployment rate was at 4.4% (not seasonally adjusted). The figure is slightly below the OECD average of 5.2%, and 12 OECD countries have lower rates.</p> <p><a href="https://treasury.govt.nz/sites/default/files/2019-05/befu19.pdf">Treasury forecast</a><span> </span>the rate to decline moderately to 4% this year and then to rise to 4.3% by 2023. While some might trumpet this as success, it is not good by New Zealand’s historical standards.</p> <p>Between 1956 and 1981, our unemployment was never above 2% and often below 1%. In the mid-1980s, the then 4% rate was considered unacceptably high and offered as a rationale for<span> </span><a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/09538250120102750">the economic reforms of the time</a>.</p> <p><strong>Low unemployment is central to well-being</strong></p> <p><a href="http://eprints.lse.ac.uk/47487/1/World%20happiness%20report%28lsero%29.pdf">Considerable</a><span> </span><a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1111/j.1475-4932.2007.00415">amounts</a><span> </span>of<span> </span><a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1111/1468-0335.00111">research</a><span> </span>conclusively shows that when people become unemployed, their well-being, measured by their self-assessed life satisfaction, falls sharply. Should they remain without a job, the unemployed do not adapt to this new and traumatising experience. Their well-being remains low until they are re-employed.</p> <p>The research suggests that the main impact of unemployment on well-being is not through people’s lower income. Rather it likely hits people through the loss of social status, loss of life structure and purpose, and lack of a positive social context.</p> <p>In addition to being a direct cause of low well-being, unemployment is also strongly connected to other 2019 well-being budget priorities. Parental unemployment is a major cause of<span> </span><a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/332879595_Child_Poverty_in_New_Zealand">child poverty</a>, which is one of five budget priorities. Unemployment is also likely to contribute to<span> </span><a href="https://reader.elsevier.com/reader/sd/pii/S0001879109000037?token=F1CE3A7FAF3734BAC523AFE393C014E454B6D40020E05535CE29073467268AE2D31FA67BDF83382A859742E78834A598">mental health problems</a><span> </span>and<span> </span><a href="https://reader.elsevier.com/reader/sd/pii/S027795361530068X?token=65A8A824DF87339014265A2E7D27503221B3EDF7602E319EEEE5084FCF9A049DBB998792CFD33DDE8AF9082D706D2FB0">alcohol and drug problems</a>, another priority. A third budget priority is reducing income and employment gaps for Māori and Pacific people. Given these two groups are over-represented among the unemployed, lower overall unemployment would also contribute to achieving that priority.</p> <p><strong>Do nothing approach to unemployment</strong></p> <p><a href="https://treasury.govt.nz/sites/default/files/2019-05/befu19.pdf">Treasury’s budget assessment</a><span> </span>of the unemployment rate at which the economy is stable (strictly speaking their estimate of the Non-Accelerating Inflation Rate of Unemployment, or the NAIRU) is 4.25%.</p> <p>Following discussions with Treasury about the range of possible estimates around the 4.25% number, officials indicated they had no direct sense of its softness. But they did suggest that estimating the rate using different statistical models delivered quite different results. They didn’t state the size of these differences.</p> <p>The Treasury criteria for choosing a specific statistical model behind the budget’s stable unemployment rate was not discussed in budget documents. A cynic might suggest that proximity of the estimated stable rate to the actual current rate of unemployment – which generates a do-nothing policy conclusion – might have been on decision-makers’ minds when selecting the “best” model.</p> <p>Some indication of how different statistical models can generate quite different stable unemployment rates comes from<span> </span><a href="https://www.rbnz.govt.nz/research-and-publications/analytical-notes/2018/an2018-04">recent work</a><span> </span>at the Reserve Bank of New Zealand. The bank takes two approaches to estimating the stable unemployment rate – the results can differ at times by more than 2%. Consequently, it is difficult to take the precise 4.25% unemployment estimate, used to justify the do-nothing approach, seriously as a hard policy constraint.</p> <p>The well-being budget did contain<span> </span><a href="https://budget.govt.nz/budget/2019/wellbeing/maori-pasifika/index.htm">some new but minor unemployment initiatives</a>. But they really amount to fiddling around the micro edges of a macro unemployment problem.</p> <p><strong>Lower unemployment is achievable</strong></p> <p>Even in today’s globalised trading economies, much lower unemployment rates than New Zealand’s current 4.4% are achievable. For example, the best OECD performer is currently the Czech Republic, with an unemployment rate of 2.1%. Japan is next at 2.4% and Iceland is at 2.7%.</p> <p>The questioning of the very notion of a stable unemployment rate, and the suggestion that macro policies can have significant impacts on unemployment, is also attracting<span> </span><a href="https://pubs.aeaweb.org/doi/pdf/10.1257/jep.32.1.97">serious intellectual consideration internationally</a>. Top US economist Lawrence Summers recently<span> </span><a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2018-06-18/summers-warns-biggest-economies-not-prepared-for-next-downturn">remarked</a>:</p> <p><em>[T]he issue that’s preoccupied monetary policy for the generation before the financial crisis – the avoidance of inflation – is no longer the top issue.</em></p> <p>Rather, for Summers, that top issue was “getting to full employment”.</p> <p>The government has missed an opportunity to use macroeconomic tools to test whether we can have a society which once again has low rates of unemployment, as we used to between 1938 and the early 1980s when they were between zero and 2%.</p> <p>From the<span> </span><a href="https://nzhistory.govt.nz/social-security-act-passed">1938 Social Security Act</a><span> </span>on we have had a welfare system designed to work best when high numbers of New Zealanders are in work. Despite all the changes to the working age welfare system since the 1970s, it still functions best when the unemployment rate is considerably lower than what we have settled for today.</p> <p>Full employment and low rates of unemployment were what<span> </span><a href="https://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/news/article.cfm?c_id=3&amp;objectid=10425616">economist Wolfgang Rosenberg</a><span> </span>described in the late 1970s as the fulcrum of our social welfare system. Perhaps much lower unemployment should once again be the fulcrum of what we might now call our social well-being system. To place it in such a position of prominence would be to inaugurate policies considerably more transformational than this coalition government has thus far delivered.</p> <p><em>Written by Simon Chapple. Republished with permission of <a href="https://theconversation.com/why-reducing-unemployment-should-have-been-a-focus-for-nzs-well-being-budget-118061">The Conversation.</a></em></p>

Money & Banking

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Rumour has it Adele may launch new album in late 2019

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Adele and her husband, Simon Konecki, have announced their divorce. The pair had been together since 2011 and had welcomed a son, Angelo, in 2012.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The singer’s representatives told </span><a href="https://apnews.com/e74bd7473e7c4144941511c9abb564ae"><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Associated Press</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> that the pair had separated.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">They are committed to raising their son together lovingly. As always, they ask for privacy. There will be no further comment,” the statement read.  </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Adele has been private about her relationship, but confirmed they were married when she won Album of the Year at the 2017 Grammys.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In her acceptance speech, she said:</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Grammys, I appreciate it. The Academy, I love you. My manager, my husband and my son — you’re the only reason I do it.”</span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BSFpsJhFzUy/" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;"><a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BSFpsJhFzUy/" target="_blank">Auckland / Mt Smart Stadium / Mar 25</a></p> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/adele/" target="_blank"> Adele</a> (@adele) on Mar 25, 2017 at 9:41pm PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">However, a new album, which has been penned before the divorce, is looking to be released in 2019.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A record company insider told </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Daily Mail</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> that Adele has booked a sought-after spot to have the album put onto vinyl at a West London factory.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Adele has made sure that she has booked her work in early. It is a tell-tale sign this album is in the making and has been written over the past year or so,” the insider revealed.</span></p>

Music

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Your horoscope for May 2019

<p><strong>Gemini May 21 – June 21</strong></p> <p>With speedy Mars in your sign at the start of May, take care when running for the train, bus or taxi and don’t drive too fast if you’re late for an appointment. While you can achieve a lot with your energy dialled up high, you may come across as tense or even aggressive if you’re racing to finish a project or dashing off to meet a friend. Take time out to do what you know calms you down, such as going for a walk or listening to your favourite meditation. Getting to bed early will benefit you. Also, plan a getaway if possible, as you may be feeling worn out. Later in May, you will be supported by your ruler Mercury in having deep and meaningful conversations involving issues to do with joint finances, an inheritance, intimacy or even sex. These positive talks may be life-changing and you will come up with inspired answers to any difficult questions.</p> <p>Best days: May 1, 7-9, 21, 31</p> <p><strong>Cancer June 22 – July 22</strong></p> <p> “Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity,” said Roman philosopher Seneca. You come up with a breakthrough in matters to do with offspring, hobbies or affairs of the heart, the ‘lucky’ outcome of you putting in the hard yards behind the scenes.</p> <p>Best days: May 5, 9-11</p> <p><strong>Leo July 23 – August 22</strong></p> <p>You may dazzle your boss or higher-ups and find yourself in the spotlight for your contribution at work or to business affairs in early May. Just remember to devote time and energy to your loved ones as well.</p> <p>Best days: May 5, 11-13</p> <p><strong>Virgo August 22 – September 22</strong></p> <p>Broadening your horizons is a strong urge for you this month. Chat with an acquaintance from faraway, research an overseas trip or perhaps start learning a language. In mid-May, be prepared to make a break from your everyday routine and put your plans into action.</p> <p>Best days: May 5, 13-15</p> <p><strong>Libra September 23 – October 23</strong></p> <p>You attract a love interest or business proposition. But is the chemistry right, and do the numbers add up? A close friend is ready to offer a listening ear if things don’t pan out as you’d hoped. This event has its upside as it makes you look at what you truly value in a good partner.</p> <p>Best days: May 5, 14, 15-1</p> <p><strong>Scorpio October 23 – November 22</strong></p> <p>While it’s easy to see where others should change, it’s harder to transform our behaviour or see where we sabotage ourselves. But a full moon in your own sign, which lights up your self-expression, helps you become clear about what to do.</p> <p>Best days: May 14-15, 17-20</p> <p><strong>Sagittarius November 23 – December 21</strong></p> <p>The evidence is compelling: regular exercise and a healthy diet are essential for our wellbeing. You look into how to spice up your everyday routine and the new moon on May 5 inspires you to put your findings into action.</p> <p>Best days: May 5-6, 17</p> <p><strong>Capricorn December 22 – January 20</strong></p> <p>You’ve been tackling some heavy issues this year so take the time to balance the scales and indulge in the lighter side of life. Plan a romantic dinner with your sweetheart or dedicate a day to doing whatever makes you happy.</p> <p>Best days: May 5-6, 14, 19</p> <p><strong>Aquarius January 20 – February 18</strong></p> <p>You’re feeling the call to makeover your home or living arrangements. Simply painting a wall, recovering a chair or potting a plant could be enough of a transformation to satisfy your mood for change without straining your finances.</p> <p>Best days: May 1, 19, 24-26</p> <p><strong>Pisces February 19 – March 20</strong></p> <p>There is a friendly atmosphere on May 5 that brings you the chance to have a heart-to-heart connection with family or neighbours. You’ll also find a way to improve your daily commute or short trips in your neighbourhood.</p> <p>Best days: May 5, 19, 27-28</p> <p><strong>Aries March 21 – April 19</strong></p> <p>Your attention turns to matters of money, possessions and property with love planet Venus still in your sign and a new moon in your second house. The timing is perfect to reorganise your finances to achieve a goal. However, avoid getting into debt.</p> <p>Best days: May 1, 5, 1</p> <p><strong>Taurus April 20 – May 20</strong></p> <p>Change-making planet Uranus has been influencing your sign for a month and already you may have experienced a positive surprise or a flush of energy. When Venus partners with Uranus later in May, it may spark an event with children or a fun project</p> <p>Best days: May 5, 19</p> <p><em>Written by Janice Jones. This article first appeared in </em><a href="http://www.readersdigest.com.au/true-stories-lifestyle/thought-provoking/horoscopes-may-2019?items_per_page=All"><em>Reader’s Digest</em>.</a><em> For more of what you love from the world’s best-loved magazine, </em><a href="http://readersdigest.innovations.com.au/c/readersdigestemailsubscribe?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=articles&amp;utm_campaign=RDSUB&amp;keycode=WRA93V"><em>h</em></a><a href="http://readersdigest.innovations.co.nz/c/readersdigestemailsubscribe?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=articles&amp;utm_campaign=RDSUB&amp;keycode=WRN93V"><em>ere’s our subscription offer.</em></a></p> <p> </p> <p><img style="width: 100px !important; height: 100px !important;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7820640/1.png" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/f30947086c8e47b89cb076eb5bb9b3e2" /></p>

Retirement Life

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5 things turning 30 in 2019

<p><strong>1.The Simpsons</strong></p> <p>Ay Caramba! Bart Simpson and his fam made their series debut on FOX on December 17, 1989.</p> <p>The animated sitcom created by Matt Groening began as a series of shorts incorporated into The Tracey Ullman Show in 1987.</p> <p>The Simpsons is the longest running American sitcom with more than 650 episodes to date.</p> <p><strong>2. The fall of the Berlin Wall</strong></p> <p> It took 38 years, but in 1989 the Berlin Wall, which separated East and West Germany, came tumbling down as the Cold War began to thaw.</p> <p>It was November 9, 1989, to be exact that East Berlin’s Communist Party said at midnight their citizens were allowed to cross the border.</p> <p>According to History.com, more than 2 million East Berliners flocked to the checkpoints that once held them back to visit West Berlin that weekend.</p> <p><strong>3. GPS</strong></p> <p>We often take GPS (Global Positioning System) navigation for granted.</p> <p>It’s so easy to bring up directions on our phones, we don’t even need a separate device for guidance on the road anymore.</p> <p>But it was February 14, 1989, that the first of 24 satellites to make up the global positioning system was put into orbit.</p> <p>Using the GPS on your phonecan be a handy life saver. It can also suck all your data and become an expensive exercise.</p> <p><strong>4. America’s Funniest Home Videos</strong></p> <p>What could be more hilarious than watching people do downright silly things in the comfort of their own home while a friend or family member captured it on camcorder?</p> <p>Comedian Bob Saget hosted the first America’s Funniest Home Videos special in 1989 before it went to series in 1990.</p> <p>Saget continued to host the show for its initial eight seasons.</p> <p>Funny home videos used to be the bread and butter of television but they are now perfect fodder for Facebook.</p> <p><strong>5. Seinfeld</strong></p> <p>The self-proclaimed “show about nothing” became a whole lot of something… but not right away.</p> <p>Initially called The Seinfeld Chronicles when it premiered in 1989, the show wasn’t well received at first, according to Entertainment Weekly.</p> <p>But it wasn’t long before fans caught on to the antics of Jerry, Elaine, George, and Kramer.</p> <p><em>Written by Kelly Bryant. This article first appeared in <a href="http://www.readersdigest.com.au/true-stories-lifestyle/30-things-turning-30-2019"> Reader’s Digest.</a> For more of what you love from the world’s best-loved magazine,</em> <em><a href="http://readersdigest.innovations.co.nz/c/readersdigestemailsubscribe?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=articles&amp;utm_campaign=RDSUB&amp;keycode=WRN87V">here’s our best subscription offer. </a></em></p> <p> </p> <p><img style="width: 100px !important; height: 100px !important;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7820640/1.png" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/f30947086c8e47b89cb076eb5bb9b3e2" /></p>

Legal

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The best European destination for 2019 has been revealed

<p><span>Budapest has been named this year’s “European Best Destination”, beating out 19 other cities and regions across the continent.</span></p> <p><span>Travellers from 153 countries participated in choosing the best destination at the 10<sup>th</sup> annual European Best Destinations, with the competition receiving a record of more than half a million votes this year. </span></p> <p><span>The capital of Hungary emerged on top, with more than 62,000 votes from travellers around the world. </span></p> <p><span>The competition’s website praised the city’s culture, gastronomy scene and heritage sites. “The pearl of the Danube is not only the best European destination, it is also one of the most beautiful and safest cities in the world,” it stated. </span></p> <p><span>“Budapest offers the elegance of Paris, the architectural heritage of Vienna, the charm of Porto, Stockholm’s gentle way of life.”</span></p> <p><span>Portugal’s Braga came at number two with the most votes from Brazilian and UK travellers. “The city offers the best of Portugal in a friendly and warm atmosphere,” the website said.</span></p> <p><span>Italy’s Monte Isola and France’s Metz followed at the third and fourth rank respectively. Both became the most-voted cities in their respective countries in the competition’s 10-year history.</span></p> <p><span>Below are the 2019’s top 15 European Best Destinations:</span></p> <ol> <li><span>Budapest, Hungary</span></li> <li><span>Braga, Portugal</span></li> <li><span>Monte Isola, Italy</span></li> <li><span>Metz, France</span></li> <li><span>Poznan, Poland</span></li> <li><span>Malaga, Spain</span></li> <li><span>Geneva, Switzerland</span></li> <li><span>Cavtat, Croatia</span></li> <li><span>Bratislava, Slovakia</span></li> <li><span>Sainte-Maxime, France</span></li> <li><span>Dinant, Belgium</span></li> <li><span>Athens, Greece</span></li> <li><span>Kotor, Montenegro</span></li> <li><span>Riga, Latvia</span></li> <li><span>Florence, Italy</span></li> </ol> <p><span>Other destinations in the running included Paris, Brussels, Berlin, London and Vienna. The voting took place online across 21 days from January to February.</span></p> <p><span>Last year, Poland’s Wroclaw won the prestigious title, winning over Spain’s Bilbao, France’s Colmar and Croatia’s Hvar Island.</span></p> <p><span>Click through the gallery above to see the top 5 European destinations.</span></p> <p><span>Have you visited Budapest before? Let us know in the comments below.</span></p>

International Travel

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Packing cells will change how you travel in 2019

<p>Packing cells – people either love them or think they are a huge waste of money. We’ve detailed the pros and cons of packing cells so that you can make your own mind up.</p> <p><strong>1. What are they?</strong></p> <p>Packing cells are little cubes or zippered bags of various sizes that act as removable compartments for your suitcase or backpack.</p> <p><strong>2. How do you use them?</strong></p> <p>Packing cells allow you to organise your suitcase. You sort the items you need into individual bags. Put your dirty clothes in one, underpants in another. Put your socks in one, camera gear in another. You get the point. If you’re sharing a suitcase with a travelling companion, you can put your clothes into individual packing cells – that way your clothes won’t get all mixed up.</p> <p><strong>3. What do fans say about them?</strong></p> <p>A Facebook thread on packing cells went viral this week due to the number of people commenting. Comments such as: “Best things ever – saves so much room and keeps things tidy and organised” were common. Here’s a few more comments: “They have really changed our packing. Highly recommend. No more digging through the whole bag trying to find a pair of undies.” – Alicia thoman “We use them all the time now. Each person has their own pack and then you just take it out of the case – so much easier.” – Clare Ditchburn “They are the best, love mine, make so much more room in your suitcase.” – Kathy Stringfellow</p> <p><strong>4. What do the critics say?</strong></p> <p>Critics say that packing bags are a waste of money. Some argue that the bags are just more stuff you don’t need. Why pay the money when it doesn’t really take that long to find something in your bag. Is the 20 seconds really worth the cash?</p> <p><strong>5. Tips for using them</strong></p> <p>Generally, most people we found who have used the packing bags say they love them. So how do you use them effectively?</p> <ul> <li>Use a different colour per traveller</li> <li>Make sure you buy enough of them</li> <li>Get packing bags that have a clear window or mesh to allow you to see what is in the bag. Otherwise you’re going to spend just as much time hunting for the stuff you need.</li> <li>You can make your own packing bags from laundry bags, old airline amenities bags or plastic zip-lock bags.</li> <li>Buy a selection of different sizes</li> <li>Use them for small and necessary items.</li> <li>Use one for medications</li> <li>Keep one for chargers and phones</li> <li>Have a waterproof one for wet clothes</li> <li>Have one for dirty clothes</li> <li>Where do you buy them?</li> </ul> <p><em>Written by Alison Godfrey. Republished with permission of </em><a href="https://www.mydiscoveries.com.au/stories/packing-cells-hack/"><em>MyDiscoveries</em></a><em>.</em></p>

Travel Tips

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World’s happiest countries for 2019 revealed

<p>The World Happiness Report has just been released and the results are a little surprising.</p> <p>Finland has been crowned the happiest country in the world for a second year in a row, with another four Nordic countries following in tow and grabbing a spot in the top 10.</p> <p>The report released by United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network, ranked 156 countries by their happiness levels based on life expectancy, social support and corruption.</p> <p>The well-being of immigrants taken in by each country was also measured and added to the list.</p> <p>Britain trailed behind the likes of Israel, Austria, Costa Rica, Australia, Luxemborg and New Zealand.</p> <p>Australia ranked 11th, just missing a spot in the top 10.</p> <p>The North African nation of South Sudan placed at the bottom of the happiness index, and America is proving to be less and less happy each year as the country falls from 14th place to 19th in just two years.</p> <p>Russia ranked 68th, falling from 59th since last year while France took 24th place and China 93rd.</p> <p>The least happy countries ranking in order include South Sudan, Central African Republic, Afghanistan, Tanzania, Rwanda, Yemen, Malawi, Syria, Botswana, Haiti and Zimbabwe.</p> <p>Four different Nordic countries ranked in the highest ten places on the list.</p> <p>Meik Wiking, the CEO of the Copenhagen-based Happiness Research Institute said the five Nordic countries who were ranked high in the index were clearly “doing something right in terms of creating good conditions for good lives.”</p> <p>“'Briefly put, (Nordic countries) are good at converting wealth into well-being,” Wiking said.</p> <p>The finding on the happiness of immigrants “shows the conditions that we live under matter greatly to our quality of life, that happiness is not only a matter of choice.”</p> <p>Scroll through the gallery above to see the top ten happiest countries in the world.</p>

International Travel

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The do’s and don’ts for retirement investing in 2019

<p>When thinking of retirement, many people are not completely aware of what they should and should not do. Here are a few of our do’s and don’ts when investing for you retirement.</p> <p><strong>Do think long term</strong></p> <p>If you’re still working and investing for your retirement, then your time may be still 5-10 years away. If you plunge out of the stock market before the December plunge and then jump back in after the nasty period ends, it makes little difference over the long term.</p> <p><strong>Don’t think short term</strong></p> <p>News stories should not always require sudden re-evaluation of your portfolio. Stocks look forward, not backwards.</p> <p><strong>Do diversify</strong></p> <p>Your portfolio should look diverse and not one portfolio should exceed over five per cent of your total portfolio due to a lot of risk.</p> <p><strong>Don’t overemphasise small difference in returns</strong></p> <p>It says nothing how one fund return will do in the years to come so don’t overthink a few percentage differences – these are not the be-all or end-all of your investment portfolio.</p> <p><strong>Do embrace mistakes</strong></p> <p>Your shortcomings or small mistakes (and even big ones) are learning opportunities and ignoring them sets you up for failure.</p> <p><strong>Don’t obsess</strong></p> <p>Don’t think too much about your best or worst performing stocks in a month, quarter or year – they usually cancel each other out. The total – broad middle – is what really matters.</p> <p>What are some of your retirement investing do’s and don’ts for this year? Let us know in the comments below.</p>

Retirement Life