I first arrived in Japan in 1997, when memories of the bubble years were fresh and Tokyo was known for its frenetic nightlife and high prices. Back then I don’t recall anyone using the term “kosupa” – an abbreviation of the English words “cost performance,” which means “value for money.” If the search for kosupa has since become a pastime, its more austere cousin “setsuyaku” (economising) is something of a religion, highlighting how years of deflation and flat wages have turned Tokyoites into master bargain hunters. While I have covered elections, the Olympics and the assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, I’m mainly responsible for Reuters business coverage, a job that leaves me constantly amazed at Japan’s ability to tighten its belt, even when it seems there’s no belt...
Read MoreMonth: December 2024
Mexico study throws up surprising findings on climate change A surprising study of temperature-related deaths in Mexico upends conventional thinking about what age group is hit hardest by heat. Researchers found at higher temperatures and humidity, the heat kills far more young people under 35 than those older than 50. For decades, health and weather experts have warned that the elderly and the youngest children were most vulnerable in heat waves. But this study looking at all deaths in Mexico from 1998 to 2019 shows that when the combination of humidity and temperature reach uncomfortable levels, such as the mid to upper 80s Fahrenheit (around 30 degrees Celsius) and 50% relative humidity, there were nearly 32 temperature-related deaths of people 35 years old for every temperature-...
Read MoreThe centuries-old Paris landmark Notre-Dame Cathedral reopens on Saturday, five-and-a-half years after a devastating fire destroyed its spire and roof and brought the entire Gothic masterpiece within minutes of collapsing. The 860-year-old medieval building has been meticulously restored, with a new spire and rib vaulting, its flying buttresses and carved stone gargoyles returned to their past glory and the white stone and gold decorations shining brighter than ever. View of a light show rehearsal on the facade of the Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral, five-and-a-half years after a fire ravaged the Gothic masterpiece, on the eve of reopening ceremonies in Paris, France, December 6, 2024. REUTERS/Sarah Meyssonnier The restoration, a spectacular achievement in just five years for a str...
Read MorePrince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve has reintroduced the Persian onager to Saudi Arabia, marking the species' return to the Kingdom after more than a century of absence. In April 2024, seven Persian onagers were translocated from the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature's Shaumari Reserve in Jordan to the Reserve, establishing the first wild population in the Kingdom in over a century. Following their 935-kilometer journey, the onagers have adapted well to their new habitat, with the birth of the first foal in the Reserve—a significant milestone in rewilding efforts for both the Reserve and Saudi Arabia. "These are the first free running onager seen in Saudi Arabia since their extinction in the early 1900s. Historically celebrated ...
Read MoreExpands its seasonal experience to April 2026 Zuma Phuket, the well-loved seasonal restaurant that launched in 2016, will once again return to Anantara Layan Phuket Resort. Due to its huge popularity, this year, Zuma will extend its seasonal presence in Phuket to April 2026. Nestled in The Beach House, Zuma Phuket features a main kitchen, sushi bar and an open robata grill kitchen, inviting guests to watch the chefs at work. Set against the beautiful backdrop of the Andaman Sea, guests can savor modern Japanese dishes in a relaxed beachside atmosphere. This season, guests can enjoy the signature Daikoku dining tasting menu, offering a delightful journey through Zuma's finest dishes. Highlights include Japanese Wagyu Tataki, Truffle Ponzu, Sliced Chu Toro with Chili Ponzu Cori...
Read MoreA study indicates a remarkable growth in searches in both sectors A new analysis of Costa Rica's identity and digital footprint reveals that the country has consolidated its position by showing significant growth in tourism and exports, according to the 2022-2023 study conducted by Bloom Consulting for esencial COSTA RICA. Based on more than 12.4 million searches, this report highlights how Costa Rica has managed to capture global interest in key areas such as tourism, investment, and exports. In addition, it underlines the country's alignment with the principles of sustainability, a central issue for Costa Rica at the global level. In particular, the aspects of renewable energy, carbon neutral and sustainable products occupy a prominent place...
Read MoreAs travelers gear up for the busy holiday season, navigating the unpredictable flight landscape will be more crucial than ever. New data analyzed by InsureMyTrip researchers reveals which U.S. airports have experienced the highest (and lowest) percentage of delays and cancellations in 2024. Whether you're visiting family across the US or jetting off for a winter vacation, knowing which airports to avoid could save you time and frustration during one of the busiest travel seasons of the year. San Francisco and Buffalo: Travel Hotspots with the Most DisruptionsSan Francisco International (SFO) takes the top spot for the highest percentage of delayed flights this year, with 37.18% of flights delayed between January and June 2024. Buffalo Niagara International (BUF) saw t...
Read MoreThe American Museum of Natural History revealed the identity of its latest resident on Thursday - "Apex," one of the most complete specimens ever discovered of the plant-eating dinosaur Stegosaurus, known for the upright plates on its back and a spiky tail. To excited gasps from an audience of school children, the museum pulled back a beige curtain to reveal the 11-foot (3.4-meter) tall, 20-foot (6-meter) long skeleton of the Jurassic Period dinosaur. A Stegosaurus fossil nicknamed Apex is unveiled to the media at the American Museum of Natural History, in New York City, U.S., December 5, 2024. REUTERS/Shannon Stapleton "People are really excited about this fossil because Stegosaurus is an iconic dinosaur," said the museum's dinosaur curator Roger Benson. Stegosaurus walked on...
Read MoreA first for KSA, the triplets – two male and one female and a litter of two cubs – male and female – born earlier this summer The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) has announced the birth of a rare litter of three Arabian leopard cubs – one male and two female – marking a major milestone in efforts to safeguard the future of this critically endangered subspecies of big cats. The triplets were born at RCU's Arabian Leopard Conservation Breeding Centre this summer. The first time three cubs have been born together in captivity in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the youngsters are being closely observed by the centre's expert team who are recording their behaviour and interactions. RCU's Arabian Leopard Conservation Programme welcomes Ward's triplets Carefully obser...
Read MoreResorts in Sri Lanka, Seychelles are latest to notch top Green Growth 2050 honours Minor Hotels, a leading global hotel owner and operator, has passed a significant milestone in its commitment to sustainable hospitality with 30 of its properties earning the prestigious Green Growth 2050 Platinum certification. The achievement underscores the group's unwavering dedication to environmental stewardship across its operations in 56 countries. Since March 2024, the Bangkok-based group has added 10 more hotels to its roster of Platinum-accredited properties. The latest additions include Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort in Sri Lanka and Anantara Maia Seychelles Villas, marking the first Platinum certifications for Minor Hotels in Sri Lanka and Africa, respectively. To attain the Gree...
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