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Little House on the Prairie star passes away

Hersha Parady, renowned for her role in Little House on the Prairie, has passed away at the age of 78. According to a statement provided to The Hollywood Reporter by her son, Jonathan Peverall, Parady passed away at her residence in Norfolk, Virginia on Wednesday August 23. Her son had been actively seeking financial assistance before her demise, as Parady had been diagnosed with meningioma, a prevalent type of brain tumour. Peverall initiated a <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/helping-hersha" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GoFundMe campaign</a> with the intention of aiding his mother's escalating medical expenses. In a heartfelt plea on the fundraising page, he recounted how the illness had depleted her vitality, memory and vibrant demeanour, rendering her predominantly bedridden and struggling with day-to-day tasks. Relocating his mother to his own home, Peverall worked diligently to ensure she received the necessary medical attention. He emphasised that the associated costs extended beyond medical procedures, encompassing aspects such as moving expenditures, at-home nursing care and medical equipment. "While we contemplate a surgery to potentially ameliorate her condition, the path to recovery is an arduous one," he stated, acknowledging the substantial financial burden posed by these circumstances. Balancing a full-time job and caring for his three children added to the challenge, yet he reassured that they were providing the best care they could, regardless of external contributions. "Rest assured, we are taking care of her to the best of our ability, and we will continue to do so, regardless of any contributions made here," Peverall wrote. "This GoFundMe is about improving my Mom’s quality of life and giving her the support she needs during this difficult time. It's also about showing her that she is not alone in her fight. "Her family and friends have been here supporting her through everything, but there is only so much help she is willing to accept from the people she loves. My Mom has always been a fiercely independent woman, and asking for help isn't in her nature. That's why I'm stepping in to do it on her behalf." Peverall expressed his gratitude and urged supporters to rally around Parady, demonstrating that her on-screen "Little House" family was united in this battle, just as she had been a presence in their lives through the show. In an update dated August 1, Peverall shared that his mother had undergone a "successful" surgery. However, complications arose as Parady developed pneumonia during her recovery, leading to her admission to the intensive care unit. Unfortunately, her condition deteriorated to a point where she couldn't regain full consciousness. The medical team at the hospital launched an investigation into her condition. Peverall maintained ongoing communication with the medical professionals, seeking insights to guide the best decisions for her care. Despite the trying circumstances, he expressed hope and called upon others to remain optimistic. Parady embarked on her career in theater after graduating from Berea High School in 1963. Her journey took her to Los Angeles, where she secured a role opposite Jon Voight in a production of A Streetcar Named Desire. Subsequently, she transitioned to the silver screen, featuring in an episode of Bearcats!. However, it was in 1977 that Parady achieved widespread recognition for her portrayal of school teacher Alice Garvey in the fourth season of Little House on the Prairie. Appearing in 35 more episodes, her character, Alice, met a tragic end in season six, perishing in a fire. The actress also appeared in other shows including Kenan & Kel, The Phoenix, and The Quest, and movies like The Break and The Babysitter's Seduction. Parady is survived by her son Jonathan Peverall and her three grandchildren. Images: GoFundMe / Instagram

News

The real reason your luggage is lost in transit

There’s nothing worse than that moment of realisation you get when, standing at an empty luggage carousel, you realise your bags are anywhere in the world but here. SITA, a company specialising in air transport, has published a study revealing the most common reasons bags are misplaced in transit and tips on how to avoid it. 2015 it turns out was a historically good year for luggage retention, with the total number of mishandled bags diminishing about 50 per cent from 2007 to 2015. Worldwide, out of every 1000 passengers only around six bags are being misplaced. But it still wasn’t perfect, and 23 million bags were still misplaced. SITA has outlined the top reasons luggage doesn’t make it to where it’s supposed to be, as well as some tips to help make sure your bags makes the trip safely. Reasons for lost luggage: <ul> <li>Lost during a transfer – This was the major reason for luggage being misplaced and the cause of over half the reported misplaced luggage occurrences.</li> <li>Ticketing errors, bag switches or security issues – Around 19 per cent of lost bags fell into this category, suggesting that human error still plays a role.</li> <li>Delayed due to airport, customs, and weather or space/weight restrictions – This broad category accounted for almost 16 per cent of the lost luggage.</li> <li>Failure to load the bag or mishandling at arrival station – This was the reason behind four per cent of the bags that were mishandled.</li> <li>Tagging Error – With significant advancements in bag handling technology tagging errors accounted for only four per cent of lost luggage.</li> </ul> SITA also offered some advice for making sure your bag makes it all the way to the desired destination, suggesting air passengers take the following precautions: <ul> <li>Avoid short connections.</li> <li>Put a form of identification on the bag.</li> <li>Double check the destination tag.</li> <li>Pack luggage carefully avoiding restricted items.</li> <li>Consider purchasing a personal luggage tracking device.</li> </ul> Images: Getty

Travel Trouble

Terminally-ill rugby player carried across marathon finish line by his best mate

There wasn’t a dry eye in the crowd when best friends Rob Burrow and Kevin Sinfield crossed the finish line of the inaugural Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon. The two Leeds Rhinos players have been raising money and awareness for people with Motor Neurone Disease since Burrow’s 2019 diagnosis, with the two raising an impressive total in the millions. And now, the pair have raised spirits and warmed hearts with Sinfield’s act at the end of their Leeds race, when he picked Burrow up from his chair and carried him over the finishing line. Before that, Sinfield had been pushing Burrow’s chair for 26.2 miles (42.2 km). The moment was met with cheering and applause as the wo concluded their marathon just after the 4 hour 22 minute mark, both from those who were there to witness it in person and from those who saw footage later when it circulated online. One Twitter user even went on to dub Burrow an “absolute gem of a human”, while another was certain that they were a “pair of absolute heroes”. “What a mate! Unbelievable in a world full of cr*p at the moment there are some genuinely lovely moments. These lads have been into battle together on the pitch for club and country,” one wrote. “It’s choked me up, I’m not going to lie.” “A bunch of legends,” someone else declared. “I’ve properly welled up watching this, this is what friendship is, to the ends of the earth and back.” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Beautiful. Kevin Sinfield carried Rob Burrow over the finish line at the end of the first Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon 🥹 <a href="https://t.co/JFdd9XGgV4">pic.twitter.com/JFdd9XGgV4</a> — BBC Sport (@BBCSport) <a href="https://twitter.com/BBCSport/status/1657736670458916865?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 14, 2023</a></blockquote> Prior to the event, Sinfield had spoken about the race to The Sun, and its 12,500 reported participants, as well as the thousands lining the streets to watch, and what it meant to be undertaking the marathon together. “Even if it was just Rob and I, we’d have a great time,” he said, “there’s no better way to do it than with your mate. The fact people want to share in it and do their own little bit is incredible. “This will be with mates, for mates and alongside mates, absolutely. Look across the world at big cities where marathons are run, there’s nothing like this. “We’ve not done any training. We ran a 10km together last July and that’s part of the challenge, doing something neither of us have done before. The unknown adds to the fun of it. “He’s in a custom-made chair but it could be a bumpy ride. I’ll try and find him the safest, comfiest route but if there are hills, there are hills. If it rains, it rains.” And as Burrow himself said to The Guardian, when asked about the seven marathons in seven days that Sinfield had run on behalf of Burrow, his family, and their fight against MND, “we all need a friend like Kevin.” Images: Getty

Caring

How to pack like a pro

Whether you’re journeying overseas or enjoying a staycation, you’re likely to leave packing until the last minute. It is the one essential task that must be taken care of before any of the fun can begin! Here’s how to make the most out of your suitcase and be prepared for anything. 1. Check the weather Before you start packing, check the upcoming weather forecast for your destination. This way it’ll be easier for you to decide what kind of clothes you need to bring. It will also help to eliminate over-packing and save unnecessary weight in your luggage, and it'll leave some room for you to bring things home without another bag. 2. Pack based on your itinerary Depending on the kind of activities you have planned, there will be certain clothing items you must bring. Make sure you check your itinerary and bring the appropriate clothing. 3. Roll your clothes If you’re on a longer holiday and need to maximise the space in your bag, roll your clothes. Roll each clothing item separately and you’ll discover just how much more you can fit into your suitcase. 4. Limit your toiletries Toiletries can be heavy and space consuming, so only include what you will really need. You can buy reusable, travel-sized containers and fill them with your own products to save space. If you're flying, do not fill the containers completely to the top as changes in air pressure during flights can cause the contents to expand and leak. 5. Make a list and check it twice A list can help you see if you’re over or under-packing. Make sure you tick off all of your essentials as you go along. Make packing hassle-free and focus on the fun that's ahead of you. Image credit: Shuterstock

Travel Tips

Carrie Fisher finally receives star on Hollywood Walk of Fame

The late star Carrie Fisher is finally being honoured with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Best known for her role as Princess Leia in original Star Wars films, Fisher was an icon in the industry. Fisher sadly passed away on December 27th 2016, following a sudden cardiac arrest, but is making news again after being honoured with a well-deserved star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. She will be honoured on the most appropriate of dates, May 4th, which is unofficially known as Star Wars Day. The actress’ daughter, Billie Lour, will accept the star on her behalf. "Fans will be over the moon to know that their favourite movie princess Carrie Fisher will be honoured with her star on the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame," Anna Martinez, producer of the Hollywood Walk of Fame said in a statement. “Carrie will join her Star Wars costars and fellow Walk of Famers Mark Hamill and Harrison Ford on this historic sidewalk.” Fisher’s star will be just a few feet away from her fellow Star Wars actor and on-screen brother Mark Hamill, and across the street from her mother Debbie Reynolds. Hamill shared the news on his Twitter, saying “Long overdue & so well-deserved,” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Long overdue & so well-deserved.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CarrieOnForever?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CarrieOnForever</a>❤️ <a href="https://t.co/0pWxcfjoRB">https://t.co/0pWxcfjoRB</a> — Mark Hamill (@MarkHamill) <a href="https://twitter.com/MarkHamill/status/1650615522344710144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2023</a></blockquote> Her star will serve as a reminder that although she is gone, her influence will remain for years to come. Image credit: Getty

Movies

106-year-old tattoo artist becomes Vogue’s oldest cover star

Apo Maria ‘Whang-Od’ Oggay has made history as the oldest woman to have featured on the cover of Vogue. Regarded as the last mambabatok of her generation, Whang-Od was born in the remote village of Buscalan in the northern Philippines’ province of Kalinga in 1918, and entered the world of tattooing at just 16 years old. As Vogue Philippines’s editor-in-chief Bea Valdes explained of their decision to feature her on the cover, “we felt she represented our ideals of what is beautiful about our Filipino culture. "We believe that the concept of beauty needs to evolve, and include diverse and inclusive faces and forms. What we hope to speak about is the beauty of humanity.” And Whang-Od was the perfect choice. Vogue Philippines’ demonstrated as much when they wrote on Twitter that “the symbols of the Kalinga tribe signifying strength, bravery & beauty” are imprinted on her skin, and that Whang-Od embodies the “strength and beauty of the Filipino spirit”. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Apo Maria “Whang-Od” Oggay symbolizes the strength and beauty of the Filipino spirit. Heralded as the last mambabatok of her generation, she has imprinted the symbols of the Kalinga tribe signifying strength, bravery & beauty on the skin. Read more on <a href="https://t.co/2F1mJ5iQWG">https://t.co/2F1mJ5iQWG</a>. <a href="https://t.co/urVcA3g2Ek">pic.twitter.com/urVcA3g2Ek</a> — Vogue Philippines (@vogueph) <a href="https://twitter.com/vogueph/status/1641276503433572353?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 2023</a></blockquote> As tattoo anthropologist Dr Lars Krutak found out for Vogue, it was through Whang-Od’s father’s mentorship that she launched her career in tattooing. She was the first - and only - mambabatok of her time, and would spend her time visiting neighbouring villages - and beyond - to “to imprint the sacred symbols of their ancestors on individuals who have crossed or about to cross a threshold in their lives.” Her own life story can be found on her skin - featuring everything from her accomplishments to her ailments, and even the names of past lovers - in a story of beauty, bravery, and the heritage of the Kalinga tribe. For men, tattoos reflected them as “a headhunting warrior”, while women were typically tattooed for “fertility and beautification”. As Vogue reported, the elder women of Kalinga say that “when they die, they can’t take their beads and gold with them to the afterlife. They only have the markings on their body.” As Vogue went on to cover, decades of colonial erasure had a significant impact on batok - in Kalinga, village girls had to cover their arms, while many others abandoned the art. But through Whang-Od and her descendants, the ancient art of batok will continue - both in Buscalan and the rest of the world. Batok itself, as explained by the Vogue team who had the honour of receiving a tattoo from Whang-Od, involves “an unused gisi, a bamboo stick with a thorn attached to one end” and a pattern traced “using a length of grass dipped in the soot and charcoal mixture”. The process then sees Whang-Od hold the inked gisi in one hand, while she “uses a larger stick to whack it with her right hand, driving it over a hundred times per minute into the flesh until the three dots are filled and oozing with blood and ink. She dabs at them with a wet wipe before deciding to go over the freshly wounded spots again for good measure.” And now, Whang-Od has been teaching her craft to her grand-niece, Grace Palicas. Under Whang-Od’s mentorship, the thousand-year-old tradition will live on, as the next generation of stick-and-thorn artists strive to preserve their craft, and share it with the world. As for Whang-Od herself? Her plans are quite simple, with the artist explaining that “when visitors come from far away, I will give them the tatak Buscalan, tatak Kalinga for as long as my eyes can see.” Images: Instagram

Beauty & Style

Bring your furry friend’s face along on your next big trip

Devoted pet lovers around the world are no stranger to the struggle of setting out on their next adventure without their faithful companions at their side. And while it can help to set a paw-fect portrait as a phone wallpaper to check in everytime the distance feels too much, it isn’t always enough - especially when you’re used to seeing their sweet little faces every single day. Luckily, the people over at July have come up with a solution in ‘Petsonalisation’. It’s something sure to set tails wagging, offering pet parents the exciting opportunity to have their best friend’s face on their suitcase and travel accessories. Forget limiting yourself to lettered monograms, all customers have to do is upload their desired pet pic, and then July will do the hard part for them - illustrating the image, and personalising the luggage, tags, bottles, kits, and notebooks on offer with the friendliest of faces. “People love their pets, and often pets are the ones you leave behind when you’re off travelling. We wanted to create a way for all travellers to be able to take their pets with them, no matter the journey,” July’s Richard Li explained. “Our personalisation offering has always been unique,” July’s Athan Didaskalou added. “We know that for something to be truly personal the offering needed to be diverse and inclusive. Multiple fonts, colours, emojis, and languages. In a world-first, I am excited to extend our personalisation service once more to include the most loveable beings in people’s lives: their pets. “We’re a customer-centric business and our products are derived from what people want, with over 50% of orders already opting for personalisation. Your suitcase stands out even more on a luggage carousel and is less likely to be mistaken for someone else’s bag when it’s got your initials on it. “A lot of people would love to be able to take their dog or cat on holiday with them, but with cost and customs, that’s just not an option. We like to think this is our way of enabling our customers to bring their pets on their travel adventures.” Since launching in 2019 with their Carry On suitcase, July have progressed in leaps and bounds, now offering <a href="https://july.com/nz/shop/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">an entire suite of travel products</a> - from luggage to backpacks, bottles, phone cases, notebooks, and various other travel accessories. And now, the code ‘Petsonalisation’ can be applied for up to two pets per product on all of July’s luggage and accessories until April 25th - at $25 for accessories, and $65 for luggage. While dates are limited for July’s pet offering, they’re no stranger to personalisation, and have been offering enthusiastic customers the chance to create truly unique items since 2019. Their efforts are no small feat either, with shoppers able to “personalise up to five characters with 11 different font styles and 28 colours to choose from, even adding emojis”. And for those worried that they may not be limited in what they can write, July have an answer - they’re one of a limited number of companies worldwide, and the only one in Australia, to offer “personalised Chinese characters and additional Latin based languages such as French and Spanish for monogramming.” There’s no stress when it comes to having it sent your way either - as anyone in Australia or New Zealand is aware, postage costs can be half the battle - as with orders over $100, July offer free shipping. So, if you want to show the world your best pet friend, it’s time to hop on over to check out July’s range before April 25th, and <a href="https://july.com/nz/pet-personalisation/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">get their face put front and centre</a>! Images: July [supplied]

International Travel

Cruise passenger left without a single change of clothes in a lost luggage nightmare

When Australian grandmother Cheryl Stuchbery and her husband, John, set sail with Royal Caribbean cruises from Sydney to New Zealand, they thought they were embarking on their dream holiday. But some dreams are destined to turn into nightmares, as Cheryl soon learned, when it was revealed that staff aboard the cruise liner had lost her suitcase. For the next 11 days, Cheryl was left without so much as a change of clothes, forced to wear the same outfit time and time again. John helped as much as he could, offering his own underwear so that his wife wasn’t entirely going without. Speaking to Australia’s A Current Affair, Cheryl admitted that the entire experience had left her “very depressed. I was in tears a lot at the time.” “Cheryl ended up wearing my knickers,” John explained, adding that it only made sense, because his clothes had actually been available. "I've put a pair on, but the only thing is, I couldn't fill out the little pouch in the front," Cheryl added. When the staff were unable to locate her bag on the second day of the trip, they offered to wash her one outfit for her. Every morning, they would drop by, collect her things, and take them off to wash and dry. While this ensured Cheryl had clean clothes to wear each day, it also meant she started them with three hours sitting in her cabin and waiting. “They [would] give Cheryl a t-shirt and a dressing gown,” John explained, “so for the first sort of three hours each day, we're sitting in the room waiting for the clothes to come back.” In the time since, Cheryl has tried to find humour in the whole situation, though she certainly hadn’t even been able to consider it at the time. It wasn’t the first time the couple had set out on a cruise, it was just the first that their belongings hadn’t made it along with them. “They did say it was very unusual for a suitcase not to turn up at all,” Cheryl noted. “For quite a bit of time we felt that it had been stolen because they'd searched the ship," John said. And, in timing that came as no help to the cruising couple, Cheryl’s bag turned up the very day after they’d arrived back in Sydney. To make matters even worse, it had been onboard the whole time. As John put it, “it had been on [the] boat all the time and they say, 'well, that's okay, you've got your case back'.” Royal Caribbean have since issued a statement in apology, writing that they “sincerely apologise for misplacing Mr and Mrs Stuchbery's luggage. During their cruise, Mr and Mrs Stuchbery were provided with complimentary express laundry, an onboard credit to assist with purchasing incidental items, and specialty dining. “The luggage was located on return to Sydney and Mr and Mrs Stuchbery have been offered additional compensation and documentation to support a claim via their travel insurance.” But it hasn’t done anything to help the sour taste of the whole ordeal left in the Stuchbery’s mouths, with Cheryl declaring that she still “feel[s] very angry.” Images: A Current Affair / Nine

Cruising

12 items you shouldn’t carry in your handbag

Passwords If you have trouble remembering passwords, you might be tempted to carry them with you in your bag. “Some people feel passwords are safer in their bag than at home because it’s always on them, but nothing could be further from the truth,” says Eva Velasquez, CEO and president of Identity Theft Resource Center. “You’re much more apt to lose your purse or wallet than have a break-in.” Memorising all your login information is the safest, but if that’s not practical, she recommends storing your passwords in a passcode-protected smartphone app. Debit card Without the same protections as credit cards, debit cards put you at higher risk when making purchases. “I’m not a huge fan of always having a debit card with you, because the cash disappears from your account and you have to prove it was you before you get it back, unlike a credit card, where you can stop the charges and the money never leaves your account,” says John Sileo, CEO of cybersecurity group Sileo Group. Swipe a credit card for most purchases, and use an ATM-only card with a PIN to get cash, he recommends. Laptop A computer is probably the heaviest thing in your bag. The weight of a laptop can strain your shoulder, causing imbalanced posture, or even neck, spine, and shoulder injuries, says chiropractor Dr Steven Shoshany. If you need to have your laptop on hand, use a messenger bag or a backpack, which will distribute the weight more evenly, Shoshany suggests. Receipts A crook won’t be able to steal your identity with receipts alone, but pairing them with other documents could make it easier to pretend to be you. “It’s giving a thief a great picture of who you are and where you shop,” Velasquez says. “All fraud analytics look for anomalies in behaviour, and your receipts show where you shop.” With your old receipts, a thief might be able to make more purchases before you can cancel the card, so empty them from your bag once you’re home. Unprotected phone “A lot of people think of their smartphone as a phone instead of a mobile computer that happens to make calls,” Sileo says. Leaving your phone unprotected makes it easy for strangers to access any information you have stored in your apps. Even a four-digit password can be easy for thieves to crack, so use a longer code, or log in using fingerprint, face, or voice recognition, Sileo says. Umbrella You might be prepared for that 30 per cent chance of rain, but a bulky umbrella adds unnecessary weight. “Keep an umbrella in your car, or keep one at work and one at home,” Shoshany says. Cheque book Depending on your bank, getting your money back from cheque fraud could take anywhere from a day to four months, Sileo says. He recommends finding an alternative way to pay because cheques are so easy to steal. If you can’t bear to give up cheque writing, keep just a couple of cheques in your bag, not the whole book. Full-size beauty products Don’t weigh down your back by lugging around big bottles of hairspray. Over time, the repetitive strain of that added weight could start pulling your shoulder out, Shoshany says. “Downsize from full sizes to travel sizes to lighten the load,” he says. Work badges Giving a stranger access to your workplace could cause major problems in your job, Sileo says. Have a separate bag for the weekend or take your work ID out when you leave the office. Gift cards Like cash, you won’t get gift cards back if you lose them, so keep them with you only if you plan to use them in the store, Sileo says. If you’re afraid you’ll forget them when you do get around to shopping there, leave gift cards in your car in a disguised container like a breathmint tin, he says. Medicare number “Your medicare number is the critical piece of information a thief needs to carry out identity theft,” Velasquez says. Unless you need a copy for a new employer or are heading to a medical appointment, leave your medicare card at home in a secure place. Passport Because passports are hard to forge, a real one will be accepted more easily than other stolen documents, Velasquez says. Only carry it when absolutely necessary if it’s your primary identifier. Image credits: Getty Images This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.co.nz/healthsmart/tips/12-items-you-shouldnt-carry-in-your-handbag?pages=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>.

Beauty & Style

10 things that are always a waste to pack

All travellers know the hardships of packing the necessities for the trip ahead. And everyone knows how many things you haven’t actually used by the time you get home again – what a waste of precious space in your luggage. Here is a list of 10 things to not bother packing in your suitcase. 1. Shampoo and conditioner You can purchase these items at the places you travel. If the locals have easy access to hair products then so will you. Hotels should provide little travel-sized minis which will last a few days. Travelling with liquids can also lead to delays at security check points. 2. Shoes Don’t pack more than two pairs of shoes – they take up unnecessary weight and space. Ensure you have a comfortable pair of walking shoes and some shoes that are nice enough to go out in at restaurants and other events. 3. Jewellery Don’t bring your favourite expensive jewellery, you are only human and can accidentally leave items behind in hotels or apartments. You could also increase your risk of becoming a target for pickpockets. Try swapping out your diamond earrings for some cheaper substitute studs while you’re away. 4. Laptop Don’t bring your laptop. Unless you’re travelling for work, you probably don’t need to bring a computer on your holiday. You could also become a target for thieves while travelling if they notice you have an expensive technological device with you. 5. Swimming costume Don’t bring more than two swimming costumes. They are easy to wash and having two on hand always ensures you have a dry one to wear for the next day. Just put the swimmers in the sink filled with cool water and add some mild detergent before rinsing and wringing out to dry. 6. Hair dryer Hair dryers are heavy and bulky, so they aren’t the easiest thing to try and squeeze into your suitcase. Hairdryers are usually provided by hotels and although yours may be nicer, they both do the same job in the end. 7. Out of season clothing Avoid packing out of season clothing – if you’re going on a summer holiday in Europe, you probably don’t need that heavy winter coat. The excuse for packing these unnecessary items is always “just in case,” but if the situation does arise where there is an uncharacteristic change in weather, you can always buy what you need to face the day. 8. Books Turn to paperback books or electronic tablets instead of hardcover novels. The electronic tablets are most helpful as they can contain a whole library of book options without adding the weight of a library in your suitcase. Paperback books are good when you don’t have an electronic tablet, but maybe avoid packing seven books! 9. Traveller’s checks Traveller’s checks aren’t used anymore. Although they were once the safeguard of money while on holidays, the traveller’s checks have gone out of style. It’s unlikely you will come across a place that will accept the checks, as these have been replaced by the use of ATMs for cash and the ability to use your debit and credit cards that don’t charge an international transaction fee. 10. Double-ups Finally, don’t bring anything your travel partner is also packing. For instance, don’t pack more than one thing that can be shared. You don’t need two tubes of toothpaste, for instance! Images: Getty

Travel Tips

Airline sends woman 13 brand new suitcases as compensation

A woman has been left shocked and confused after being sent 13 brand new suitcases as compensation. Giséle Rochefort was flying with Delta Airlines in the US when her luggage was badly damaged on her flight. "Delta destroyed my suitcase. I filed a claim, they agreed to replace it," Rochefort explained in a now-viral TikTok video. Giséle’s suitcase had some of the fabric ripped off the cover, while one of the wheels had been completely knocked off. Soon after filing her claim with the airline, Rochefort received a notification that she had been issued a replacement for her luggage and it was ready to be picked up. However, she was greeted with 13 boxes, each one containing a new suitcase in varying sizes and designs: all the same brand of her destroyed luggage. <div class="embed" style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; outline: none !important;"><iframe class="embedly-embed" style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border-width: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; width: 610px; max-width: 100%; outline: none !important;" title="tiktok embed" src="https://cdn.embedly.com/widgets/media.html?src=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tiktok.com%2Fembed%2Fv2%2F7205751910886837547&display_name=tiktok&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tiktok.com%2F%40gisele_rochefort%2Fvideo%2F7205751910886837547%3Fq%3DGis%25C3%25A9le%2520Rochefort%26t%3D1678421013573&image=https%3A%2F%2Fp16-sign.tiktokcdn-us.com%2Fobj%2Ftos-useast5-p-0068-tx%2F0c0dca39b4c14fafa59759c9312e38ad%3Fx-expires%3D1678442400%26x-signature%3DnoEZd10erItVG8BuGildr1uEaAk%253D&key=59e3ae3acaa649a5a98672932445e203&type=text%2Fhtml&schema=tiktok" width="340" height="700" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></div> "I was crying laughing, It felt like an April Fools' prank. I thought I was done, only to realise 3 of the large bags had small ones inside them," she added in the comments section of her video. "I think they made a mistake," she added. Rochefort said the bags, which retail for as much as $300 (AUD) each, are currently stacked up on a wall at her home. "It's called interior design sweetie, look it up," she joked, adding, "Thanks Delta!" Her video has been viewed one million times, with many of her followers wondering how they can get their hands on such a haul. "I think I know what everyone is getting for their bday or the holidays," one commented. "Keep two and sell the rest," another suggested. "And here's an extra 12 Incase we break anymore," another joked. Image credits: TikTok

Travel Tips

Fiddler on the Roof star passes away

Chaim Topol has passed away at the age of 87. The Israeli actor, known around the world for his role as Tevye the Milkman in Fiddler on the Roof, died at home with his loved ones at his side. He is survived by his wife and three children. Topol’s son had previously confirmed that the actor had been diagnosed with dementia in 2022, while The Times of Israel reported that the 87-year-old had been battling with Alzheimer’s for years. Israel’s president Isaac Herzog announced Topol’s death in a statement, describing him as a “gifted actor who conquered many stages in Israel and overseas, filled the cinema screens with his presence, and most importantly entered deep into our hearts.” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> President <a href="https://twitter.com/Isaac_Herzog?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Isaac_Herzog</a> mourns the passing of Chaim Topol: <a href="https://t.co/PXWYUKq8iY">pic.twitter.com/PXWYUKq8iY</a> — Office of the President of Israel (@IsraelPresident) <a href="https://twitter.com/IsraelPresident/status/1633716213925724160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2023</a></blockquote> Topol was just 30 years old when he first stepped into the role of Tevye in 1996 for the stage musical Fiddler on the Roof. At the time, he was required to wear makeup and special costuming to make him look older than he was, but by the time he finished performing in 2009, he had to act younger, as he was then in his 70s. It has been estimated - and claimed by Topol himself in 2014 - that he had portrayed Tevye in the stage play over 4000 times. His credits weren’t limited just to the stage, however, with the actor also diving in as the beloved character for the 1971 screen adaptation. For this work, he secured himself nominations for both an Academy Award and a Golden Globe. While he did not win the Oscar, he did go home with the Golden Globe award. He also received a Tony Award nomination in 1991 for the Broadway revival. Throughout his career, Teyve was the first character people recognised him for, though Topol didn’t seem to mind. In a 2015 interview, he said “how many people are known for one part? How many people in my profession are known worldwide?” Production took him across the globe with Fiddler on the Roof, and saw him visit everywhere from Australia to Europe, Asia, and Israel. “Sometimes I am surprised when I come to China, or when I come to Tokyo, or when I come to France, or when I come to wherever, and the clerk at immigration says ‘Topol, Topol, are you Topol?’” he said, “many people saw [the play] and it’s not a bad thing.” Topol also starred in the likes of Galileo, Flash Gordon, and For Your Eyes Only, as well as providing his voice for Hebrew dubs of both The Jungle Book and two Harry Potter films. His later years, however, saw him turn to writing and illustrating books. And in 2015, the actor was awarded The Israel Prize by the State of Israel, something that is considered to be one of the state’s top cultural honours. Images: Getty

News

TV host humiliated live on air by 9-year-old daughter

A TV host has been left mortified after her 9-year-old daughter embarrassed her live on air. Jenna Hager Bush, one of the hosts of the US morning show Today with Hoda & Jenna, had her daughter Mila on the show to chat about fashion. The 9-year-old then shocked her mum by telling viewers that Hager “never wears underwear.” She continued, “She is not wearing it right now! I saw her change!” The little one’s confession came one month after the journalist first confessed that she often skips underwear for a “more pretty silhouette” after co-host Hoda Kotb called her out. Hager, who also shares daughter Poppy, 7, and son Hal, 3, with husband Henry Hager, explained that her controversial wardrobe choice makes her life “easier.” “You don’t have to pack as much,” she pointed out last month. “There [are] a lot of pros to it.” While Mila wasn’t the first to out her mother’s lack of underwear, she did continue to embarrass Hager with another story on Tuesday. “One time she was laughing in our living room and she peed her pants!” Mila said, noting that Hager had to “change [her] pyjamas” at the time. Hager was a good sport, sarcastically thanking Mila before saying, “I think Hoda is trying to get the truth bombs out [of you] but no more.” <div id="ad-hybrid-banner-1" data-type="unruly" data-ad-size="4x4" data-device-type="web"> <div> </div> </div> When Mila showed no signs of keeping quiet, Hager abruptly concluded, “OK, goodbye! Goodbye, I love you!” As Mila exited the stage, Kotb gushed, “What a great kid. … You and her are very similar because you’re both just exactly who you are.” Image credits: Today with Hoda & Jenna

Dog found hidden in carry-on bag at airport security

A US Transportation and Security Agency (TSA) officer has discovered a small dog stashed in a traveller's carry-on luggage. The animal was found in a backpack when going through the X-ray machine at the Dane County <a title="Airport " href="https://www.9news.com.au/airport" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Airport</a> in Wisconsin. TSA told a local news outlet that the passenger was unaware of the screening protocol and did not tell security officers about her dog. After an officer explained the proper process and confirmed she disclosed she was travelling with a pet to the airline, she proceeded to her gate to board her flight. TSA Great Lakes confirmed that the woman's error was an accident on social media, while alerting people to the proper flying rules. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Video: Here’s the proper way to travel with your pet. Note: This is a <a href="https://twitter.com/TSA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TSA</a> PreCheck passenger traveling with a cat. If you think your pet will attempt an escape, ask to speak with a supervisor before removing the animal. Alternative screening options may be available. (2/2) <a href="https://t.co/NL2jNjni2l">pic.twitter.com/NL2jNjni2l</a> — TSA_GreatLakes (@TSA_GreatLakes) <a href="https://twitter.com/TSA_GreatLakes/status/1600210121136537600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2022</a></blockquote> "A dog was accidentally sent through the X-ray @MSN_Airport this week," it tweeted. "When travelling with any animal, notify your airline and know their rules." "At the checkpoint, remove your pet from the bag and send all items, including the empty carrier, to be screened in the machine." It then uploaded a video showing "the proper way" to travel with pets. Image credits: Twitter

Travel Trouble

Cruise ships are back and carrying COVID. No, it’s not 2020. But here’s what needs to happen next

Cruise ships carrying passengers with COVID are back in the news. The Coral Princess, with an unconfirmed number of people testing positive on board, is <a href="https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/7959796/virus-infected-cruise-ship-to-dock-in-wa/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">set to dock</a> at Fremantle, Western Australia. The Quantum of The Seas, with passengers reportedly testing positive, <a href="https://twitter.com/9NewsQueensland/status/1585194230825246721" target="_blank" rel="noopener">is heading for</a> Brisbane. There have been similar situations at other ports in <a href="https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/477429/cruise-ship-with-covid-19-cases-failed-to-follow-current-isolation-guidelines" target="_blank" rel="noopener">New Zealand</a> and <a href="https://www.cruiselawnews.com/2022/10/articles/disease/covid-cruise-ships-return-down-under-with-hundreds-of-infected-guests/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the Pacific</a>. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> FIRST ON 9: A COVID-riddled cruise ship is heading for Brisbane, with passengers reporting hundreds of people are confined to their rooms. <a href="https://twitter.com/Anna_Rawlings?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Anna_Rawlings</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/9News?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#9News</a> <a href="https://t.co/ygLdE5FlqG">pic.twitter.com/ygLdE5FlqG</a> — 9News Queensland (@9NewsQueensland) <a href="https://twitter.com/9NewsQueensland/status/1585194230825246721?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 26, 2022</a></blockquote> But this isn’t 2020. The cruise ship industry and health authorities have learned much from large outbreaks linked to the Ruby Princess and Diamond Princess cruise ships early in the pandemic. Yet, there’s even more we can do to limit the impact of SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID) spreading from cruise ships to communities on land. Why are we worried about cruise ships? Cruise ships can have epidemics of a variety of infectious diseases, <a href="https://theconversation.com/cruise-ships-can-be-floating-petri-dishes-of-gastro-bugs-6-ways-to-stay-healthy-at-sea-this-summer-126351" target="_blank" rel="noopener">not just COVID</a>, facilitated by large numbers of people in close proximity, especially during indoor social activities. We know SARS-CoV-2 is spread mainly by <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-pressure-is-on-for-australia-to-accept-the-coronavirus-really-can-spread-in-the-air-we-breathe-160641" target="_blank" rel="noopener">inhaling contaminated air</a>, so indoor activities may pose a risk if ventilation is poor. Cruises typically last at least a week, which covers the incubation period for infections such as influenza and COVID. So all it takes is for one infected person to be on the ship to set off an epidemic. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> More than 130 passengers and crew on the first cruise ship to arrive in the country in two years have tested positive for Covid-19.<a href="https://t.co/tA73LTzQad">https://t.co/tA73LTzQad</a> — RNZ (@radionz) <a href="https://twitter.com/radionz/status/1584959572342878208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 25, 2022</a></blockquote> Staff stay on ships much longer than passengers, and can continue to infect new passengers, perpetuating a cycle of outbreaks. But <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-020-0869-5#Fig1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">almost half</a> of infections are transmitted asymptomatically. So, without testing everyone on board (before they board and during outbreaks), infectious people can board a ship without being aware they are infected and cause an epidemic. Infected staff can also infect new passengers, and passengers can infect communities they visit on land. What happened with cruise ships and COVID in 2020? Early in the pandemic, large outbreaks on ships, such as the <a href="https://theconversation.com/yes-australians-on-board-the-diamond-princess-need-to-go-into-quarantine-again-its-time-to-reset-the-clock-131906" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Diamond Princess</a> made the headlines. Some 634 of 3,711 (17%) people on board <a href="https://www.eurosurveillance.org/content/10.2807/1560-7917.ES.2020.25.10.2000180" target="_blank" rel="noopener">tested positive</a> for COVID. The ship was quarantined for two weeks. An <a href="https://elifesciences.org/articles/58699?utm_source=content_alert&utm_medium=email&utm_content=fulltext&utm_campaign=26-August-20-elife-alert" target="_blank" rel="noopener">estimated 69%</a> of transmissions on board were transmitted asymptomatically. The Ruby Princess had a COVID outbreak in March 2020 with <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-10-12/nsw-ruby-princess-class-action-trial-covid-19-testing-sydney/101527156" target="_blank" rel="noopener">around 700 cases</a>. Yet health authorities allowed passengers to disembark in Sydney without testing, who then dispersed around the country at a time we had no vaccines. Our research <a href="http://www.ijtmgh.com/article_119534_550421b9e1139603f85c3fc9af97d25a.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">showed</a> this resulted in growing community clusters for weeks afterwards. But it’s not 2020 We now have vaccines. But vaccination rates vary globally (and cruise passengers are often from many countries). Some vaccines are <a href="https://pmj.bmj.com/content/postgradmedj/98/1159/389.full.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">less effective than others</a>, not everyone is up-to-date with their <a href="https://theconversation.com/millions-of-australians-still-havent-had-their-covid-boosters-what-message-could-convince-them-now-190482" target="_blank" rel="noopener">booster shots</a>, <a href="https://www.bmj.com/content/377/bmj-2022-071113" target="_blank" rel="noopener">vaccine immunity wanes</a> (even after having a booster), and current vaccines are generally <a href="https://theconversation.com/whats-the-difference-in-protection-against-omicron-between-2-doses-and-3-doses-of-vaccine-176447" target="_blank" rel="noopener">less-effective</a> against currently circulating Omicron subvariants. This means people can be infected and infectious despite being vaccinated. Many of us have also had COVID, especially in 2022. But our immunity following infection (whether or not we’re also up to date with our vaccines) wanes too. People who were infected with older variants may also have a <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.abq1841" target="_blank" rel="noopener">dampened immune response to Omicron</a>, which means limited protection. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Australia’s COVID vax program has lost all momentum: booster rates are going nowhere. The $11 million winter booster communication campaign had no impact. An updated Omicron vaccine is on the way, but have we lost the motivation to get a shot? <a href="https://twitter.com/GrattanInst?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GrattanInst</a> <a href="https://t.co/DjHeW59ssT">pic.twitter.com/DjHeW59ssT</a> — #UnhealthyIndustries (@WePublicHealth) <a href="https://twitter.com/WePublicHealth/status/1575705478461419520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2022</a></blockquote> Cruise ships and health authorities have also tightened up their COVID protocols. The New South Wales government, for instance, publishes on its website <a href="https://www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/travel/cruising-rules" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the COVID risk</a> of in-coming vessels. It places ships in one of three categories according to a number of factors, including the number of COVID cases on board. Cruise ships also have <a href="https://cruisepassenger.com.au/news/coral-princess-covid-outbreak/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">strict protocols</a> for controlling and managing outbreaks. This includes masks for close contacts, mandatory isolation for infected passengers for five days, and testing of anyone with symptoms. The problem is that transmission can continue because of asymptomatic infections. The ship may need medical evacuations or assistance for severely ill people. There is also the problem of infection being transmitted to communities on shore after people without symptoms disembark. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> .<a href="https://twitter.com/PrincessCruises?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PrincessCruises</a> Majestic Princess had at least 116 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/cruise?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#cruise</a> guests with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> when it arrived in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tahiti?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tahiti</a>, according to a local newspaper. <a href="https://t.co/LtvDaVKIaR">https://t.co/LtvDaVKIaR</a> — James (Jim) Walker (@CruiseLaw) <a href="https://twitter.com/CruiseLaw/status/1585389753591279616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 26, 2022</a></blockquote> We can do more People disembarking and unknowingly spreading the virus is especially a problem for small towns. The itinerary of the Coral Princess, which has since been modified, included the Western Australian towns of Broome and Geraldton, both of which have large Aboriginal communities, and other towns, such as Albany and Busselton. Small towns may not have a hospital, may have limited access to health care, and would not have capacity to deal with many severely ill patients. Capacity for medical evacuations are also limited. In the map below, we can see how hospitals are distributed in rural areas around Broome. Most hospitals are near Perth and the southwest coast. Broome has one hospital with about 40 beds. Large hospitals in Perth and Darwin are about 2,000 kilometres away, which would be the destinations for medical evacuations of severely ill patients. <figure class="align-center zoomable"><a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/492085/original/file-20221027-36452-5tqk25.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/492085/original/file-20221027-36452-5tqk25.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/492085/original/file-20221027-36452-5tqk25.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=849&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/492085/original/file-20221027-36452-5tqk25.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=849&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/492085/original/file-20221027-36452-5tqk25.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=849&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/492085/original/file-20221027-36452-5tqk25.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=1067&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/492085/original/file-20221027-36452-5tqk25.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=1067&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/492085/original/file-20221027-36452-5tqk25.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=1067&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" alt="Map showing distribution of hospitals in Western Australia" /></a><figcaption>Most major hospitals are near Perth, which is about 2,000 kilometres from Broome. Samsung Lim, author provided</figcaption></figure> So it’s important to monitor for outbreaks in Broome after the Coral Princess docked there this week, and ensure availability of testing to enable early intervention (such as antiviral drugs) to control outbreaks. Cruises with outbreaks on board should ideally <a href="https://ozsage.org/working_group/regional-rural-and-remote/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">avoid</a> small towns or remote locations with limited health services or vulnerable populations, as the impacts on these communities may be much greater than in a large city. Visiting small towns during an on-board epidemic <a href="https://ozsage.org/media_releases/ozsage-position-statement-cruise-ship-epidemic-and-risk-to-small-towns-in-western-australia/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">would be safer</a> if everyone who disembarks is tested first, is negative, and wears a mask on shore. What else could we do? The cruising industry has acknowledged the reality of COVID being a continuing threat. This could be improved by recognising the role of asymptomatic transmission in testing policies. For instance, all passengers and crew should have a negative rapid antigen test at the start of the cruise, and during an outbreak. All close contacts and all disembarking passengers should be tested for COVID, regardless of symptoms. The cost of testing would be much less than the lost costs of large epidemics. During a cruise epidemic, companies also need to consider the locations being visited, how much COVID is already present there (some remote towns have very little COVID) and available health-care systems for locals. Rapid use of antivirals may also help to control epidemics on board as these allow passengers testing positive to <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/laninf/article/PIIS1473-3099(22)00644-2/fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noopener">clear the virus faster</a>. The aviation industry <a href="https://www.ashrae.org/file%20library/technical%20resources/covid-19/12-19_walkinshaw.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">does well</a> in providing safe air in-flight. The cruise industry has also started <a href="https://www.cruisecritic.com.au/articles.cfm?ID=5474" target="_blank" rel="noopener">changing ventilation</a> to add fresh air instead of recirculated air indoors. But there is still some way to go before we can say the threat of COVID is over, on-board or on land.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/193384/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> Writen by C Raina MacIntyre. Republished with permission from <a href="https://theconversation.com/cruise-ships-are-back-and-carrying-covid-no-its-not-2020-but-heres-what-needs-to-happen-next-193384" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a>. Image: Getty Images

Cruising

Camilla’s ex-husband carries out official duty on her behalf

Queen Consort Camilla's ex-husband, whom she shares two kids with, has carried out an official duty on her behalf. Brigadier Andrew Parker Bowles formally represented the Queen Consort at his cousin John Bowes-Lyon’s funeral at the London Oratory. This is the first official duty he has performed on behalf of his ex-wife and it is believed that it won’t be the last time the 82-year-old former Army officer would represent the Queen Consort. “Andrew is happy to do anything he is asked. He still enjoys a warm relationship with Camilla,” a source told Daily Mail. Camilla and Andrew married in 1973 before they separated in the 1980s and divorced in 1995. They share two children, Tom and Laura. Earlier this year, the Queen Consort spoke candidly about cooking for her children despite not being a great in the kitchen. “I always cooked for the children growing up, and they were good eaters, but I was never the most adventurous of cooks,” she said. “I was sent on a cooking course in Sussex when I was young but, really, I learnt from my mother. I’ve never followed a recipe in my life... “I could fill a book with all my cooking disasters. I’m not a natural baker, to say the least. “As for baked potatoes… many a poor, incinerated specimen has been found in the bottom of the Aga, put in, then forgotten about.” Camilla married King Charles III in 2005 following a whirlwind romance and affairs dating back to when Charles was married to Diana. Image: Getty

Family & Pets

Hard vs soft luggage – which is better?

Your suitcase will be your most faithful travel partner, so make sure you choose the right one. 1. How are you travelling? When you’re checking your luggage in for a standard flight, it makes very little difference whether it’s hard or soft. But other modes of transport can be difficult with a hard suitcase. It’s much harder to fit in the back of a taxi or car, and it can be trickier to stow on a bus or train. If you’re taking flights on very small planes your luggage might be restricted even further and hard sided bags can even be banned, so read the fine print. 2. What are you taking? Hard suitcases can provide more protection if you travel with a lot of breakables, like glass cosmetic bottles or electronics. It’s also good for flimsy souvenirs that you might pick up along the way. If you like to keep all your breakables in your carry on, then soft luggage should suit you fine. 3. Are you an organised packer (and unpacker)? Soft suitcases will generally come with a few more internal pockets or dividers, allowing you to separate out your items. Hard suitcases tend to be a big empty space. If you like things to be organised, soft luggage is the best bet. Hard suitcases also take up more room than soft, so if you like to live out of your case on the floor of your hotel room (rather than hanging things up) you could find it gets in the way. 4. How often do you travel? Hard luggage is more durable than soft and will usually stand up to the rough treatment of time in the cargo hold or being dragged around cobblestone streets. If you travel frequently, you’ll want your luggage to be able to survive multiple journeys without showing too much wear and tear. 5. Do you worry about security? It can be easier to break into a soft suitcase, if only because thieves can simply slash the fabric sides. It’s not usually possible to do this to a hard suitcase, so you are giving yourself an extra layer of protection. However, keep in mind that a good travel lock will usually deter most opportunistic thieves, so most types of suitcase are relatively safe. Image: Getty

Travel Tips

Hotel worker busted going through traveller’s luggage

A traveller has shared a hotel story from hell, revealing he secretly filmed a hotel worker going through his possessions after he checked in and unpacked. The guest captured the footage of a housekeeper appearing to sift through his belongings and look in his safe, after he utilised the hidden webcam on his laptop. Sharing the video on TikTok, the traveller issued a warning to his followers, with the caption, “Pro travel tip: you can turn your laptop into a security camera.” The video then shows the housekeeper helping himself to a beverage out of the mini fridge, before starting to rummage through the wardrobe. “Be careful when you’re travelling. This was the first time I set up a camera and caught this.” Luckily, the housekeeper didn’t take any belongings from the savvy traveller, although they still reported the incident to hotel management. They said the hotel “managed the situation professionally”, and the housekeeper was fired “on the spot”. The guest said when booking the hotel, they noticed a series of reviews mentioning thefts but weren’t able to find any proof, hence they felt the need to set up the camera. The video has racked up over 170,000 likes, with many people in the comment section saying they rely on similar technology to keep their belongings secure. One nervous traveller commented, “This is exactly why I barely take anything out of my suitcase, always keep my lock on it and always travel with the keys.” Image credits: TikTok

Travel Tips

The best way to carry travel documents

If something happens overseas and you need to produce an important travel document, you want to be able to do so without having to empty half your suitcase. Keeping your travel documents organised can save you quite a lot of stress when you’re abroad. But what’s the best way to do so? We’ve taken a look at the options for getting your travel documents together, and provided some tips and tricks to do so. Organising ahead of time might be the difference between passing a border easily, and having to deal with an irate customs official. Travel folder There is a range of specialised travel folders on the market at the moment, but even something as simple as a standard A4 folder can do the job well enough, protecting your important documents from the elements while ensuring they all remain in the same place. The advantage of using a travel folder is that it’s a relatively inexpensive solution, but at the same time if it’s not specifically designed for travel, some bulkier items like your passport can be loose. Travel wallet These items are becoming increasingly popular and it’s easy to see why, as they provide a neat little way to store all your important documents. They can also provide a stylish accessory, as we can see in this video which shows how anyone can make their own <a href="../travel/travel-insurance/2016/03/how-to-make-a-diy-travel-wallet/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">great DIY travel wallet</a>. Travel wallets are lightweight, easy to carry and reliable. The only disadvantage is that they are not really suitable for larger documents like booking confirmations. Money belts Another neat way to carry travel documents around, money belts are generally pretty discreet. Strapped around your stomach, it can be a great way to carry around your important travel documents without running the risk of them being nabbed by pickpockets. That being said, money belts are only so big, and might not be suitable for all of your travel documents. Additional hints and tips <ul> <li>Before you go, take time to make copies of your travel documents such as your passport and airfares, and be sure to carry these around in a separate place.</li> <li>Consider making digital copies of your travel documents as well. Save these on a USB, in an email or on an <a href="https://www.tripit.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">itinerary storage website such as TripIt</a>.</li> <li>Review the <a href="../travel/travel-insurance/2015/11/destinations-you-need-a-visa/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Visa entry requirements</a> of the destination you’re visiting.</li> <li>Be wary when a hotel or travel company asks you to <a href="../travel/travel-tips/2015/12/handing-your-passport-to-a-hotel/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">hand over your passport</a>.</li> </ul> Image: Shutterstock

Travel Tips

Tips for designing a garden on a budget

Whether you are new to gardening or a garden guru, if you are thinking of redesigning your garden, the process can be a little intimidating and the costs can really add up. But with some planning and research and a little imagination it can be a very enjoyable project. Plan and do it yourself Gardening is a great way to spend a Sunday, but if you’re planning to design or redesign your whole garden, it might be a bit daunting. The trick is to plan what you want to do and pace yourself. You don’t want to exhaust yourself in a single day; and gardening should be fun not a chore. The beauty of planning out your garden design is that you’ll be able to see where you can save money, and where you might need some help from the professionals. Don’t be afraid to ask family and friends for help either; they’ll usually be happy to lend a hand. Gardening can also be a great activity to do with the grandkids. Propagate using cuttings The best way to determine what will grow best in your garden is to look around the neighbourhood. What plants in your neighbour’s garden are thriving? Once you have a list of the best plants for your area, visit some neighbours and ask if you can take some cuttings. Plants that will propagate from a cutting include geraniums, gardenias, camellias, lavender, hydrangea, azaleas, many succulents and native plants, to mention just a few. Often all you’ll need to do is cut away stems and leaves so roots can grow in their place and plant the cutting in the ground. But you can also add growth hormone to help propagate a cutting. Consider native plants As mentioned above, native plants can often be propagated using cuttings, but they are also naturally suited to your area. While you might not want to fill your garden with native plants, you can use smaller native plants and grasses for smaller spaces in your garden and take advantage of their easy manageability. Because native plants have evolved to withstand the climate and can survive with less fertiliser, pesticides and water, a native garden can be easier and much cheaper to maintain. This gives you greater flexibility; if you were to go on holiday, you won’t have to rely on the kids to look after the garden while you are gone. Find uses for common household items When you are designing your garden on a budget you should have a look around the house for ways to save on your garden budget. You can get plenty of ideas on the internet for how to repurpose old and vintage items in your garden. And there are many ways to recycle household items in the garden that you may have been planning to throw out. Newspaper mulching is a prime example of repurposing a household item. Use your old newspapers to smother weeds, allowing your flowers and veggies to grow unhindered. Have your grandkids grown out of their nappies? Use left overs in the place of water hydrating crystals in the bottom of pot plants. They’ll act as a reservoir and will keep the plant moist without drowning it. Egg carton seed storage Egg cartons and toilet rolls can be used as seed starters, while toilet paper makes great seed paper. You could even try your hand at composting. But if that’s a little too much for you, you can just use your tea leaves as a nutritional boost for your plants. So start planning your new garden, enlist the help of family and friends and have a look around your house and online for some inspiration. Did you design your own garden? Share your tips with the Over60 community in the comments below. To find more great tips on gardening and design, please visit the Australian Outdoor Living <a href="https://www.australianoutdoorliving.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">website here</a>. Image: Getty

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