Valencia: Art, Cuisine, and Paella Delights
Valencia, Spain, emerges as one of the top travel destinations for 2024, as recommended by Vivian Song of The New York Times. Named the European Commission’s “green capital” for 2024, Valencia boasts miles of velvety sand beaches, a vibrant cultural scene, and a rich gastronomic tradition, including the iconic dish, paella. The city has been […]
Edward de Bono’s Roach Tale
In “The Love of Two Cockroaches,” Edward de Bono, the esteemed philosopher and pioneer of “lateral thinking,” explores themes of love and individuality through the story of Cocky and Missy, two cockroaches defying societal norms. Vanessa Thorpe of The Guardian observes this narrative exploration: One of his most idiosyncratic books, The Love of Two Cockroaches, […]
Singapore’s Luxury Hotel Boom
Singapore is currently experiencing a surge in luxury hotel development, writes Christine Chung of The New York Times. This transformation marks a significant period for the city, renowned for its cuisine, architecture, and world-class airport. In 2024, Singapore stands out as a premier destination for travelers seeking vibrant cultural experiences and the indulgence of opulence […]
Mozambique’s Democratic Journey: Joaquim Chissano’s Legacy
Former British MP and minister Chris Mullin discusses the enduring trend of despotic African leaders clinging to power, while also recognizing Mozambique’s Joaquim Chissano as a remarkable exception. Some years ago, at an African Union conference in Addis Ababa, I heard the then UN secretary general, Kofi Annan, say to an audience stuffed with life […]
Boboli Gardens: Florence’s Renaissance Retreat
Rowan Moore, a writer for The Guardian, curating a list of the most remarkable urban parks, highlights the Boboli Gardens in Florence, transporting visitors to the Renaissance era, beginning in the 16th century. These gardens are distinguished by their meticulous layout, exquisite sculptures, and the majestic presence of the Palazzo Pitti overseeing them. Once the […]
Protecting Wildlife in Tasmania’s Paradise
Tasmania, Australia’s island state, emerges as a top recommendation from Nora Walsh of The New York Times for 2024. Discover its wild beauty and unique wildlife while joining conservation efforts in pristine wilderness areas. Experience the local food scene and foraging culture, and embark on a three-day trek across rugged Bruny Island with the Tasmanian […]
Controversy Erupts Over Remarks by Singapore Fashion Designer Priscilla Shunmugam
At an event held at the Asian Civilisations Museum, Priscilla Shunmugam, the founder of the fashion label Ong Shunmugam, sparked controversy with remarks that some deemed racist. She was discussing why the cheongsam is a recurring theme in her designs, a video clip of which went viral. “Chinese women have progressed significantly faster and further […]
Montevideo, Uruguay’s Tricentennial
Montevideo, Uruguay, is recommended by Laurence Blair of The New York Times as one of the top travel destinations for 2024. Despite being South America’s most laid-back capital, Montevideo offers colonial architecture, bustling markets, and beautiful beaches, making it an ideal time to discover its subtle, easygoing charms during its 300th anniversary celebrations. Among the […]
Ingvar Kamprad: The Teenage Entrepreneur Who Built IKEA
Bob Chaundy’s BBC profile (c.2000) details how, in his teens, Ingvar Kamprad launched IKEA, capitalizing on post-war demand for affordable household goods, showcasing his remarkable foresight and resourcefulness, laying the foundation for future success: By the age of 17 he had formed a small company to enable him to bid for a contract to supply […]
Baltimore: Museums, Waterways, and Native Art
Baltimore, Maryland, emerges as a top destination for 2024, as suggested by Daniel Scheffler of The New York Times. Explore the city’s new museums, urban waterways, and Native artwork in Charm City, where cultural landmarks, delicious seafood, and lively neighborhoods await visitors. Opening the new Justice Thurgood Marshall Amenity Center marks the 60th anniversary of […]