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The five best European Christmas markets

<p dir="ltr">A savvy traveller has shared her top five favourite Christmas markets in Europe, after visiting more than 100 festive markets. </p> <p dir="ltr">Originally from Texas, Helene Sula became enamoured with European festive traditions since moving to Heidelberg, Germany, in 2016. </p> <p dir="ltr">She told <em><a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/article-13982839/100-Christmas-markets-favourite-five-Helene-Sula-Germany-France-UK-Austria.html">MailOnline Travel</a></em>, “Heidelberg was my first ever Christmas market and I was obsessed. I made it my mission to see as many as possible. The feeling was like being a kid at Christmas all over again. The magic felt real.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Despite her love for her local Christmas market, Helene shared the other four markets that have captured her heart, all while paying homage to the one that kicked off her love affair with Christmas festivities. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Cologne, Germany</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">According to Helene, the Christmas market in Cologne is not to be missed. </p> <p dir="ltr">The travel blogger said, “Cologne’s Christmas market near the cathedral is breathtaking. The towering Gothic architecture of the Cologne Cathedral creates the perfect backdrop for the festive lights and stalls.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“The market is expansive, with plenty of food options - make sure to try the Reibekuchen (potato pancakes) and mulled wine. It’s also great for families, with a skating rink and carousel.”</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Strasbourg, France</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">The keen traveller said France always offers “authenticity” in their Christmas markets.</p> <p dir="ltr">Helene comments, “Known as the Capital of Christmas, Strasbourg is one of the oldest and most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe.” </p> <p dir="ltr">“The entire city is transformed into a festive wonderland, with stunning decorations, multiple market squares, and delicious local treats like tarte flambée and bredele cookies. The charm and authenticity of this market are unmatched.”</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Heidelberg, Germany</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Despite travelling all over the continent for Christmas festivities, Helene’s local market of Heidelberg is still one of her favourites. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Heidelberg holds a special place in my heart as it was the first Christmas market I visited after moving to Germany,” comments the traveller. </p> <p dir="ltr">“The market goes along the Hauptstrasse, one of the longest pedestrian streets in Europe! You'll wander through the beautiful historic old town, with the illuminated Heidelberg Castle overlooking the city.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“The ice-skating rink and warm treats like bratwurst make this market feel intimate and magical. Also, get some fries!”</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Ribeauville, France</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">According to Helene, this historic market offers a step back in time to Christmas of years past.</p> <p dir="ltr">She said, “Ribeauville is a medieval-themed Christmas market, and it's one of the most unique I've ever visited.The town feels like it's straight out of a fairytale, with medieval music, costumes, and performances that transport you back in time.” </p> <p dir="ltr">“It's only open two weekends a year so you have to plan! I also recommend this as a family-friendly one, as it's great for kids!”</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Vienna, Austria</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">The capital city of Austria is one of the largest in Europe, and is destined to impress anyone who attends. </p> <p dir="ltr">Helene explains, “Vienna’s Christmas markets are elegant and enchanting, with the market at Rathausplatz being my favourite. The backdrop of Vienna’s grand architecture combined with twinkling lights is truly magical.” </p> <p dir="ltr">“Try a Viennese sausage and a cup of punch, and enjoy ice skating at the nearby rink for a full festive experience.”</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Shutterstock </em></p>

International Travel

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"Ruined our trip": Mum shell-shocked by $130k fine

<p>A mother has been slapped with a hefty fine after her children were caught in a seemingly innocent act while on a beach holiday. </p> <p>Charlotte Russ took her five kids on a trip to Pismo Beach in California, where her children started enthusiastically collecting what they thought were ordinary seashells. </p> <p>"My kids they thought they were collecting seashells, but they were actually collecting clams, 72 to be exact,"  Russ told local news outlet <em><a href="https://abc7.com/post/fresno-woman-fined-88k-after-kids-collect-clams/14859295/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noreferrer noopener">ABC 7</a></em>.</p> <p>Clamming is highly regulated in California, meaning if you don't have a fishing license, you cannot catch the small sea creatures. </p> <p>She received a citation right there on the beach and was later notified she has to pay close to $89,000, or $133,000 AUD, for her kids' seemingly innocent treasure hunt. </p> <p>"It made me really sad and depressed, and it kind of ruined our trip," said Russ.</p> <p>Department of Fish and Wildlife's Lieutenant Matthew Gil defended the fine, saying there are rules in place for a reason. </p> <p>"The reason we got it we have these regulations is because we have to let them get to 4 and a half inches so they can spawn so they can have they can have offspring every year, and they have juvenile clams," said Lt. Gil.</p> <p>Russ said her kids have learned their lesson, saying, "They know now at the beach don't touch anything, but they know now what a clam is, compared to what a seashell is now, I've had to explain that to them."</p> <p>The mother was able to plead her case with a San Luis Obispo County Judge, who reduced her fine to $500 dollars, and after she "won" her case, Russ got a shellfish tattoo to commemorate the incident.</p> <p>"It was definitely one expensive trip to Pismo, unforgettable," said Russ.</p> <p><em>Image credits: ABC 7</em></p>

Travel Trouble

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Surprising Aussie beach crowned best in the world

<p dir="ltr">An iconic Australian beach has been named the best in the world in a prestigious list of the most picturesque coastlines on the planet. </p> <p dir="ltr">Each year, <a href="https://www.cntraveller.com/gallery/best-beaches-in-the-world" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Condé Nast Traveler</a> ranks the beaches from around the world to curate a list of 34 locations that every beach lover needs to visit. </p> <p dir="ltr">In the top ten list, five beaches from both Australia and New Zealand feature, living up to the countries reputations of stunning coastlines. </p> <p dir="ltr">With a “combination of leaning palm trees on powdery sand”, the publication crowned Palm Cove Beach as the best beach in the world, describing the spot in Queensland as “the epitome of a tropical paradise”.</p> <p dir="ltr">Located north of Cairns, the publication shared that Palm Cove is relatively “crowd free” and home to a range of unique wildlife. </p> <p dir="ltr">While many on social media were quick to agree with the winning location, others argued that there are beaches around Australia more deserving of the crown. </p> <p dir="ltr">“The only way you rank Palm Cove as the best beach in the world is if you have never been to Palm Cove or don’t like beaches,” one wrote.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Eyre Peninsula beaches leave Palm Cove for dead,” another added.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Best beach if you don’t ever want to go in the water. What about all the magic in WA?” one questioned.</p> <p dir="ltr">Check out the top 10 list of the world’s best beaches below. </p> <p dir="ltr">10. Die Plaat, South Africa</p> <p dir="ltr">9. Awaroa, South Island, New Zealand</p> <p dir="ltr">8. Noosa Beach, Australia </p> <p dir="ltr">7. Dune du Pilat, France</p> <p dir="ltr">6. Mona Vale Beach, Australia</p> <p dir="ltr">5. Ora Beach, Indonesia</p> <p dir="ltr">4. Wategos Beach, Australia</p> <p dir="ltr">3. Brekon, Shetland</p> <p dir="ltr">2. Honopu Beach, Kauai, Hawaii</p> <p dir="ltr">1. Palm Cove Beach, Australia</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Shutterstock</em></p>

International Travel

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"She was everything": Beach Boys' Brian Wilson shares devastating news

<p>The Beach Boys singer-songwriter Brian Wilson has shared that his wife of nearly 30 years has passed away.</p> <p>The 81-year-old musician broke the news on Instagram on Wednesday morning, saying that his "heart is broken" after his wife Melinda Ledbetter Wilson died aged 77. </p> <p>"Melinda, my beloved wife of 28 years, passed away this morning. Our five children and I are just in tears. We are lost," he wrote in his post, underneath two pictures of his wife.</p> <p>"Melinda was more than my wife. She was my saviour. She gave me the emotional security I needed to have a career," he said.</p> <p>"She encouraged me to make the music that was closest to my heart. She was my anchor. She was everything for us. Please say a prayer for her. Love and Mercy, Brian."</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" 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);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/C2vSn-zO_32/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <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> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <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 style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C2vSn-zO_32/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Brian Wilson (@brianwilsonlive)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>In his post, he also shared a tribute that appeared to come from their five children collectively, which read, "It is with a heavy heart that we let everyone know that our mum, Melinda Kay Ledbetter Wilson passed away peacefully this morning at home."</p> <p>"She was a force of nature and one of the strongest women you could come by. She was not only a model, our fathers [sic] savior, and a mother, she was a woman empowered by her spirit with a mission to better everyone she touched. We will miss her but cherish everything she has taught us," the statement read.</p> <p>"How to take care of the person next to you with out expecting anything in return, how to find beauty in the darkest of places, and how to live life as your truest self with honesty and pride."</p> <p>They added, "We love you mum. Give Grandma Rose and Pa our love."</p> <p>Brian and Melinda first met in 1986 and married in 1995, before adopting their five children.</p> <p>Their love story and relationship was portrayed in the 2014 biographical drama film <em>Love &amp; Mercy</em>, which starred John Cusack and Elizabeth Banks.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

Caring

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“People don’t understand boundaries”: Woman ruins couple’s romantic proposal

<p dir="ltr">A young couple has been left devastated and mortified after their marriage proposal was crashed by an inconsiderate “Karen” on the beach. </p> <p dir="ltr">Zenicca Llanza, a 24-year-old from the Philippines, shared a video of her boyfriend getting down on one knee at the beach and asking her to marry him. </p> <p dir="ltr">Her partner had arranged a romantic set up on the beach, complete with a tent, picnic table, proposal sign, a cake and rose petals. </p> <p dir="ltr">However, when the time came for him to pop the question, a beach goer began to interfere and rearrange the set up, interrupting the romantic moment. </p> <p dir="ltr">In the video posted to TikTok, Zenicca’s partner got down on one knee and began to recite a speech, as the unnamed woman walked into shot. </p> <div><iframe title="tiktok embed" src="https://cdn.embedly.com/widgets/media.html?src=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tiktok.com%2Fembed%2Fv2%2F7269928964536192298&amp;display_name=tiktok&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tiktok.com%2F%40warngwarng%2Fvideo%2F7269928964536192298&amp;image=https%3A%2F%2Fp16-sign.tiktokcdn-us.com%2Fobj%2Ftos-useast5-p-0068-tx%2F80e87476646048bca323b002688ff427_1692662253%3Fx-expires%3D1692910800%26x-signature%3D2CX7o9uY0RsEB7creGyXnWP8mas%253D&amp;key=5b465a7e134d4f09b4e6901220de11f0&amp;type=text%2Fhtml&amp;schema=tiktok" width="340" height="700" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></div> <p dir="ltr">She then moves the proposal sign before walking over to the couple to get a look at the ring, before Zenicca even got a chance to wear it.</p> <p dir="ltr">“How to quickly ruin a proposal,” Zenicca wrote on TikTok.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Please be mindful of other people's once in a lifetime event! You never know you're already ruining it,” she wrote.</p> <p dir="ltr">The video has racked up tens of thousands of views, with many people being outraged on Zenicca’s behalf. </p> <p dir="ltr">“You could excuse the first few seconds w good intentions but the rest I feel like we’re just really bad manners and not having any self awareness,” commented one person. </p> <p dir="ltr">“This made me physically ill. I'm so sorry omg,” added another. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Aw I could tell she had good intentions but was ignorant in the moment that she was slightly ruining something y’all would cherish forever,” commented a third.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Just tell her it’s a personal moment. Sometimes people don’t understand boundaries.”</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: TikTok</em></p>

Relationships

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"Get out of the water!" Huge shark spotted at crowded beach

<p dir="ltr">Dramatic footage has revealed the moment a shark was spotted swimming in shallow waters at a crowded beach in Florida.</p> <p dir="ltr">In the video filmed at Navarre beach on Monday, a sizeable fin can be spotted zipping past swimmers as panicked onlookers screamed for them to get out.</p> <p dir="ltr">"Get out of the water!" one person screamed, as stunned swimmers ran for their lives.</p> <p dir="ltr">However there was an eerie lack of urgency for a few others who took their time exiting the waters, with no worries whatsoever to the frustration of a bystander who commented: "They're still out there."</p> <p dir="ltr">Cristy Cox, who filmed the footage, told the <em>Pensacola News Journal</em> that the shark was simply chasing a fish, but warned people to be aware of their surroundings.</p> <p dir="ltr">“It all happened so fast! A dolphin was actually side by side with the shark at first and then just disappeared,” she said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The shark was just trying to feed as they are expected and just passed by swimmers.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Everyone was stunned as it moved down the beach chasing the school of fish. We all just have to remember this is natural and we are in their home, so stay alert!”</p> <p dir="ltr">Beach Safety Director Austin Turnbill confirmed to the publication that a shark had been spotted at the beach, but for people to not be alarmed.</p> <p dir="ltr">“There’s sharks in the Gulf, everywhere. We see sharks almost every day and there’s nothing to be alarmed of for 99.9% of the time,” he said.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Cristy Cox Facebook</em></p>

Travel Trouble

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8 surprising alternatives to popular European destinations

<p>That’s the problem with great destinations – they become too popular for their own good. So we’ve found some alternatives that are just as good.</p> <p><strong>Instead of: Croatia</strong></p> <p><strong>Try: Montenegro</strong></p> <p>The yacht set have known about Montenegro’s charms for years, but the rest of the world is just getting onboard. Sitting just south of Croatia, the country shares its same gorgeous coastline, beautiful beaches and historic walled cities, but with hardly any of the crowds. It’s sat at the border of east and west for more than 400 years, so expect a fascinating cultural mix and even a unique communist legacy thrown in.</p> <p><strong>Instead of: Prague</strong></p> <p><strong>Try: Brno</strong></p> <p>Hard to pronounce, easy to love. The Czech Republic’s second city is a winning combination of old and new. Baroque cathedrals and historic houses rub shoulders with lively pubs, trendy cocktail bars and contemporary art museums. Plus, as with all of the Czech Republic, Brno is great value – and you won’t come across any of the UK bucks parties that seem to trawl other capitals in Eastern Europe.</p> <p><strong>Instead of: Cinque Terre</strong></p> <p><strong>Try: Rapallo</strong></p> <p>There’s no denying that the Cinque Terre is stunning – provided you can find a hotel in high season. Instead, head around 50 kilometres north along the coast to the charming town of Rapallo. You’ll find the same brightly coloured buildings, a 16<sup>th</sup> century castle perched above the sea and pebbly beaches lined with retro changing huts. All this for a fraction of the price.</p> <p><strong>Instead of: Canary Islands</strong></p> <p><strong>Try: Azores</strong></p> <p>These Portuguese islands sit around 2,000 kilometres off the west coast of continental Europe, so they’re something of a hidden gem. They miss out on most of the tacky package tours from the UK and have less of a party vibe than other islands in the Med. Referred to as the Hawaii of the Atlantic, you’ll find a landscape volcanic peaks and dramatic crater lakes while offshore there’s world-class surfing, diving and whale watching.</p> <p><strong>Instead of: Florence</strong></p> <p><strong>Try: Bologna</strong></p> <p>Did you know some 16 million tourists visit Florence every year? That’s a lot for a town with a permanent population of less than 400,000. The university town of Bologna gets only a fraction of that and has just as much to offer. The streets are lined with historic religious architecture, the food is incredible and the whole city seems to embrace the culture of aperitivo (afternoon cocktails with friends). We’re sold.</p> <p><strong>Instead of: Berlin</strong></p> <p><strong>Try: Warsaw</strong></p> <p>Berlin is considered Europe’s capital of cool, but Warsaw can give it a run for its money. The city was largely flattened in World War II and was rebuilt in a fascinating mish mash of styles that makes it unlike anywhere else in the world. Restored Gothic buildings sit alongside Communist-era concrete blocks and sleek glass towers rise from gritty laneways. It’s also home to fantastic museums covering everything from the Jewish ghettos to Chopin.</p> <p><strong>Instead of: Interlaken</strong></p> <p><strong>Try: Bovec</strong></p> <p>Switzerland is notoriously expensive, so the Slovenian town of Bovec is a great value alternative. It’s known as the adventure capital of eastern Europe and the surrounding Julian Alps are ideal for hiking, canyoning, mountain biking, white water rafting and skiing in winter. The best part is, they will cost around half of what they would in Interlaken.</p> <p><strong>Instead of: Budapest</strong></p> <p><strong>Try: Tallinn</strong></p> <p>It wasn’t long ago that Budapest was itself an ‘alternative city’, but cheap flights and the river cruise boom have pushed it up to the top of the list. The medieval city of Tallinn, capital of Estonia, sits on the Baltic Sea and is a unique mix if Scandinavian, European and Russian culture. The magnificent onion-domed St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is reason enough to visit, though once you’re there you’ll also love the cool design shops springing up and the very cheap (and very good) local beer.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

International Travel

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World’s best beaches revealed

<p dir="ltr">Whether you prefer to spend your days lounging on the sand with a cocktail in hand, or diving beneath the surf on an underwater adventure, it’s important to find the right location to suit all of your holiday needs. </p> <p dir="ltr">And thanks to TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards, it has never been easier to narrow down your selection from the world’s 25 best beaches, and to lock in that next dream getaway.</p> <p dir="ltr">Coming in at 25th is Greece’s gorgeous Balos Lagoon, though it isn’t the only contender that brought the country success in the rankings - Falassarna Beach secured the 21st position, too. </p> <p dir="ltr">In 24th to 22nd came St Thomas’s Magens Bay, Isla Mujeres’ Playa Norte, and Cyprus’ Nissi Beach. And for the next ten spots, the ocean vistas were a sight to behold, and beloved by travellers from all across the globe.  </p> <p dir="ltr">At number 20 on the list was Tanzania’s Nungwi Beach. Next up came Brazil’s Ipanema Beach, then Costa Rica’s Playa Manuel Antonio, Spain’s Playa de Muro Beach, Bali’s Kelingking Beach, Spain’s La Concha Beach, Grand Cayman’s Seven Mile Beach, Australia’s Manly Beach, Georgia’s “haunting” Driftwood Beach, and Florida’s Siesta Beach. </p> <p dir="ltr">From there came the top 10, each boasting spectacular views, sparkling sands, and mesmerising waters. </p> <p dir="ltr">10th place went to Hawaii’s Ka’anapali Beach, perfect for those in search of a “place to find our peace!”</p> <p dir="ltr">9th went to Cuba’s “postcard perfect” Varadero Beach. </p> <p dir="ltr">8th to the Islands of Sicily’s Spiaggia dei Conigli, described by one traveller as “one of the marvels of the world.”</p> <p dir="ltr">7th to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands’ Radhanager Beach, which begs the question “what’s not to like?”</p> <p dir="ltr">6th place went to Portugal’s “white sand beach that seemingly stretches forever” Praia da Falesia. </p> <p dir="ltr">Opening the top five was Providenciales’ Grace Bay Beach, a spot that’s been known to excite many who have the opportunity to visit. </p> <p dir="ltr">From there came Iceland’s stunning and “trapped inside a dream” Reynisfjara Beach, for those looking for something a little different. </p> <p dir="ltr">Australia got another honour with Cable Beach in third place, a location known for its opportunities “to sightsee, walk, swim, rock pool, and watch the sunset.” </p> <p dir="ltr">The “tranquil and pristine” Eagle Beach in Aruba secured second spot.</p> <p dir="ltr">Meanwhile, the honour of World’s Best Beach went to Brazil’s “beautiful [and] remote” Baia do Sancho. The top location not only boasts breathtaking views and a quieter experience, but also a little fun for those who want an experience en route - a steep path, complete with stones and ladders, keeps this spot safe from the masses. </p> <p dir="ltr">See the <a href="https://www.gq.com.au/lifestyle/travel/worlds-best-beaches/image-gallery/e2715cbdf7b9c622b0d0955cedf5c6c0">full list of winners</a> here. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Getty</em></p>

International Travel

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Main bomb maker of 2002 Bali bombings released early

<p dir="ltr">Umar Patek, a convicted terrorist and the main bomb maker in the 2002 Bali bombings, has been released from jail.</p> <p dir="ltr">Patek, a leading member of the al Qaida-linked network Jemaah Islamiyah, helped build the car bomb that killed more than 200 people, including two Kiwis and 88 Australians, at two nightclubs in Kuta Beach in 2002.</p> <p dir="ltr">Patek served just over half of his original 20-year sentence and was released from jail after Indonesian authorities claimed that he was successfully reformed.</p> <p dir="ltr">"The special requirements that have been met by Umar Patek are that he has participated in the de-radicalisation coaching program," Ministry of Law and Human Rights spokesperson Rika Aprianti said.</p> <p dir="ltr">Patek will be required to report to the parole office once a week, before it becomes once a month.</p> <p dir="ltr">He is required to stay on parole until 2030, but his freedom can be revoked if he fails to report to the parole office or breaks the law.</p> <p dir="ltr">During his jail stint, Patek received a total of 33 months of sentence reduction with the most recent one on August 17, Indonesia's Independence Day.</p> <p dir="ltr">This saw Patek given a five-month reduction of his sentence after fulfilling the parole requirement of serving two-thirds of his current sentence</p> <p dir="ltr">At the time of the reduced sentence, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the government will look at making "diplomatic representations" to oppose Patek’s release.</p> <p dir="ltr">"I feel a great deal of common distress, along with all Australians, at this time," Albanese said.</p> <p dir="ltr">"We had been advised by the Indonesian government of this further reduction.</p> <p dir="ltr">"This will cause further distress to Australians who were the families of victims of the Bali bombings."</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Nine News</em></p>

Legal

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The world finally has its first ‘parastronaut’

<p>The European Space Agency made history last week with the announcement of the first “parastronaut”, 41-year-old UK citizen John McFall.</p> <p>He is the first candidate selected for the Parastronaut Feasibility project, <a href="https://www.esa.int/About_Us/Careers_at_ESA/ESA_Astronaut_Selection/Parastronaut_feasibility_project" target="_blank" rel="noopener">described by ESA as</a> a “serious, dedicated and honest attempt to clear the path to space for a professional astronaut with a physical disability”.</p> <p>McFall, a former Paralympic sprinter, had his right leg amputated after a motorcycle accident at age 19.</p> <p>Most of us are familiar with images of gruelling astronaut selection tests and training from movies such as The Right Stuff. ESA seeks to answer the practical question of what changes to training and equipment need to be made for a physically disabled person to travel to space.</p> <h2>How are astronauts selected?</h2> <p>NASA first selected astronauts, <a href="https://www.life.com/history/mercury-seven-photos-of-nasa-astronauts-in-training/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the Mercury Seven</a>, in 1959. Recruitment was limited to male military test pilots less than 40 years old, in excellent physical and mental health, and less than 1.8m tall (the Mercury capsule was tiny).</p> <p>Today, NASA uses a similar basic eligibility screening. Applicants must have 20/20 vision (corrective lenses and laser eye surgery are okay) with blood pressure under 140/90 when seated and a height between 1.49 and 1.93m (to fit <a href="https://theconversation.com/what-does-it-take-to-do-a-spacewalk-skill-courage-and-being-able-to-wear-a-mens-size-medium-163256" target="_blank" rel="noopener">available spacesuits</a>).</p> <p>However, this is the easy part. Candidates endure several rounds of interviews and testing, and if lucky enough to be selected will need to pass the long-duration flight astronaut physical. It’s a gruelling week-long test of physical abilities necessary for space, such as agility and hand-eye coordination, as well as tolerance of extreme pressure and inertial (rotating) environments.</p> <p>This is followed by a two-year training period mastering complex space hardware and software, performing simulated EVAs (spacewalks) in Houston’s <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/centers/johnson/pdf/167748main_FS_NBL508c.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory</a>, and experiencing weightlessness during <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/analogs/parabolic-flight" target="_blank" rel="noopener">parabolic flight</a>.</p> <p>Although I have described the NASA process here, similar programs are used across space agencies. Determining what adaptations to training are required to allow participation by physically disabled candidates will be one outcome of the parastronaut project.</p> <h2>Astronaut diversity is improving</h2> <p>Culturally, astronaut selection criteria have slowly evolved since the first all-male, all-military cohorts. The first female (and civilian) in space, Soviet cosmonaut <a href="https://starchild.gsfc.nasa.gov/docs/StarChild/whos_who_level2/tereshkova.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Valentina Tereshkova</a>, flew on the Vostok 6 capsule in 1963.</p> <p>It was another 15 years before NASA selected female astronauts, and a further five before <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/feature/sally-ride-first-american-woman-in-space/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sally Ride</a> became the first US woman in space aboard the shuttle Challenger in 1983. The first NASA astronaut of colour, <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/subject/11054/guy-bluford/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Guion “Guy” Bluford</a>, flew in the same year.</p> <p>The 2021 NASA astronaut class of ten candidates, <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/press-release/nasa-selects-new-astronaut-recruits-to-train-for-future-missions" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Group 23</a>, included four women and several candidates from culturally diverse backgrounds.</p> <p>It would appear that diversity in astronaut selection has lagged behind society, and ESA has made a bold step with the parastronaut project.</p> <h2>Levelling the playing field</h2> <p>ESA has initially focused on candidates with a lower-limb disability. Astronauts primarily use their upper body to get around in weightlessness, and a lower-limb disability is unlikely to impair movement. In this respect, zero-g presents a level playing field.</p> <p>Issues are likely to arise when operating existing space hardware. The parastronaut study aims to determine what modifications to launch vehicles, spacesuits and other space systems would be necessary to allow a physically disabled astronaut to live and work in space.</p> <p>There is precedent for an astronaut with a progressively disabling condition flying in space. NASA astronaut <a href="https://spacecenter.org/remembering-nasa-astronaut-rich-clifford/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Rich Clifford</a> was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 1994 after noticing a lack of movement in his right arm when walking, shortly before his third scheduled shuttle flight.</p> <p>NASA not only allowed him to launch aboard Atlantis in 1996 for his final mission, but scheduled Clifford for a six-hour EVA on the exterior of the Mir space station.</p> <p>Although his experience was largely positive, Clifford did note he had difficulty donning his spacesuit due to limited motion of his right arm. The human-machine interface may present the biggest challenge for future parastronauts.</p> <h2>Space is still risky and extreme</h2> <p>In November 2021 we passed the milestone of <a href="https://www.npr.org/2021/11/10/1054575533/spacex-launch" target="_blank" rel="noopener">600 humans having gone to space</a>. Compare that to the 674 million passengers who flew on US airlines in 2021 alone.</p> <p>If we could travel back in time to when only 600 people had flown in aeroplanes, we would find the risk of flying considerably higher than today. This is where we are with spaceflight.</p> <p>It remains a high-risk venture to an extreme environment with significant physical and mental challenges. We are still a long way from anyone being able to travel to space, although hopefully we won’t have to wait until billions of people have launched to reach a level of safety comparable to modern commercial aviation.</p> <p>Our knowledge of the physical, mental and operational risks associated with spaceflight is still incomplete. Of the 600+ space travellers to date, only 70 have been female, and an understanding of gender difference in space health is only just beginning to emerge.</p> <p>How would a physical disability affect an astronaut’s performance in space? We don’t know, but ESA is taking the first step in finding out. It would appear that space truly is the last frontier.</p> <p><strong>This article originally appeared on <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-world-finally-has-its-first-parastronaut-can-we-expect-anyone-to-be-able-to-go-to-space-one-day-195566" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a>.</strong></p> <p><em>Image: ESA</em></p>

Travel Trouble

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10 European villages you haven’t been to

<p>Of course everyone has heard about London, Paris and Rome, but sometimes it’s the hidden gems that provide the most memorable experiences for travellers.</p> <p><em>Travel + Leisure </em>has put together a 10 of the best secret European villages. They might not be as well known, but they’re just as captivating as a place to visit in their own right.</p> <p>To see the villages, scroll through the gallery below.</p> <ol> <li>Giornico, Switzerland</li> <li>Staufen im Breisgau, Germany</li> <li>Aberdour, Scotland</li> <li>Norcia, Italy</li> <li>Folégandros, Greece</li> <li>Marvão, Portugal</li> <li>Terschelling, The Netherlands</li> <li>Hellnar, Iceland</li> <li>St. Mawes, England</li> <li>Plios, Russia</li> </ol> <p>Have you been to any of these secret villages? Do you have a holiday on the cards, and if so where are you going?</p> <p><em>Images: Getty Images</em></p>

International Travel

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European droughts could jeopardise cruising’s future

<p dir="ltr">With much of Europe and the UK recording devastating droughts, plummeting water levels in rivers and lakes are posing a threat to trade, industry and another sector: tourism.</p> <p dir="ltr">According to the European Union’s European Drought Observatory, around 63 percent of the land across the EU and UK, while the UK declared a drought in eight out of 14 areas shortly after.</p> <p dir="ltr">One body of water hit hard by the hot and drying weather is the Rhine, an important trade route and a popular inclusion on cruise itineraries.</p> <p dir="ltr">A critical juncture of the river at the German town of Kaub recorded water levels of just 36 centimetres over the weekend, sinking below the level at which commercial shipping becomes unprofitable.</p> <p dir="ltr">Clare Weeden, a principal lecturer in tourism and marketing at the University of Brighton, told <em><a href="https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/europe-drought-river-cruising/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">CNN</a></em> that this isn’t news, with low levels on the Rhine and Daube rivers seeing cruise passengers bussed from one destination to another over the past five or six years.</p> <p dir="ltr">"Anybody who operates river cruise boats would have had an understanding of this because of the way the climate has changed in the last 20 years," she explained.</p> <p dir="ltr">But, with the coinciding rise of river cruising’s popularity with the climate crisis, Weeden said Europe’s traditional cruising is “definitely going to suffer”.</p> <p dir="ltr">The situation is similar across Europe, with parts of France’s famed Loire river drying up almost completely and some canals being closed.</p> <p dir="ltr">As for the Danube, emergency dredging is taking place on the lower river, through Serbia, Romania and Bulgaria, while the water levels in the Hungary stretch have meant that trade vessels, averaging 1600 tonnes, can only navigate the river without cargo.</p> <p dir="ltr">While some cruises have been unaffected, passengers on some lines have been unable to travel to Budapest by water, instead being bussed or flown from other destinations.</p> <p dir="ltr">In the UK, the source of the Thames has moved downriver by five miles (or eight metres), a first in the country’s history.</p> <p dir="ltr">For those with tours lined up, don’t cancel just yet. Helen Prochilo of Promal Vacations suggests those who have booked their trips make regular calls to their river cruise line to check the conditions.</p> <p dir="ltr">For visitors still considering booking a tour, Prochilo advises to book earlier in the season or simply wait until next year.</p> <p dir="ltr">Susanne Etti, an environmental impact manager at Intrepid Travel, has called this year’s summer “a wake-up call for the entire sector”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Travel has a front row seat as climate change unfolds in the destinations we visit and, if this becomes a standard summer, it will massively impact our industry,” Etti said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Unless urgent action is taken on climate change, the reality is that extreme weather is going to have an impact on the destinations and communities we visit.”</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-693be9c9-7fff-aaf7-af04-c5f69ee015d7"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Getty Images</em></p>

Cruising

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Your chance to finally live in a tree house!

<p dir="ltr">A lot of homes are described as “once in a lifetime opportunity” but this one certainly takes the cake.</p> <p dir="ltr">An actual tree house just three hours from Los Angeles is up for grabs after hitting the market for a solid USD $3.8 million (AUD $5.4 million).</p> <p dir="ltr">Sitting on 6.69 acres in Pismo Beach, the house has parts of the tree it's built on enveloping the main living area, twisting from beneath and through the ceiling like the fictional Kraken.</p> <p dir="ltr">Despite being built in the 1960s, the different home has been perfectly maintained to ensure its intricate features remain.</p> <p dir="ltr">The land contains five different dwelling units that include one bedroom, one bath tree house, a large museum with a studio and one bedroom apartment.</p> <p dir="ltr">There is also a carriage house with a two bedroom apartment, and a studio apartment-with two car garage.</p> <p dir="ltr">And a main house with two bedrooms, one and a quarter baths with rock fireplace and wrap around decking, a shed/studio with full bath-each one with private views.</p> <p dir="ltr">Each of the homes contains wooded settings and private yards and decks thanks to the glorious oak tree.</p> <p dir="ltr">If that’s not enough to entice you, the properties include two sea train containers that are perfect as workshop areas as well as a Zen yoga platform to reclaim your inner peace.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Zillow</em></p>

Real Estate

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Hotel staff walk out leaving guests in the lurch

<p dir="ltr">Hotel staff who walked out of their job have left their shocked and confused customers in the lobby. </p> <p dir="ltr">Employees of the Hampton Inn and Suites at Boynton Beach in Florida appeared to walk out, leaving customers out to dry and unable to check in. </p> <p dir="ltr">A video shared to <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/Wellthatsucks/comments/tlzp6q/entire_hilton_suites_staff_walked_out_boynton/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reddit</a> shows police at the front desks on the phone attempting to sort out the situation, according to the poster. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Entire Hilton Suites staff walked out, Boynton Beach,” the post read.</p> <p dir="ltr">“No one has been able to check in for over 4 hours. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Mine and another guest’s keycard are not working so we can't get into our rooms. Six squad cars have shown up to help?”</p> <p dir="ltr">It is unclear whether the staff quit, however, commenters suggested that it could be due to poor management. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Some manager must have really ticked everyone off,” one person wrote. </p> <p dir="ltr">“Do I smell a bad work environment and incompetent local leadership?” another commented. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Reddit</em></p>

Travel Trouble

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British tourist almost dies from jellyfish sting

<p dir="ltr">A British tourist enjoying his holiday in Australia was left fighting for his life after being stung by a deadly jellyfish.</p> <p dir="ltr">James Soale, 22, and his girlfriend Savannah Callaghan, 23, were swimming at Palm Cove Beach in North Queensland on March 8 when he felt an “electric shock”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“It felt like an electric shock. I suspected it was a jellyfish but didn’t know which one or the danger,” he told <a href="https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/17956048/brit-fighting-for-life-stung-worlds-deadliest-creatures/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Sun</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I tried to walk it off before the pain got too much and I told the lifeguard, who quickly evacuated everyone from the sea.</p> <p dir="ltr">“It was a scary time and the pain was excruciating. I’ve never had anything like that happen to me before.” </p> <p dir="ltr">James was stung by an Irukandji jellyfish and began suffering from chest pains and struggling to breathe.</p> <p dir="ltr">He was rushed to Cairns Hospital where medics were able to neutralise the venom but doctors still feared that he was in immediate danger. </p> <p dir="ltr">“We arrived at the hospital and the venom had leaked to James’ heart…they feared he could go into cardiac arrest but after around 10 hours there and medicating him, he was stable.”</p> <p dir="ltr">James was finally discharged and researched the jellyfish, finding out that he was lucky to be alive.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Irukandji jellyfish can grow up to 2cm in diameter and are difficult to be seen by swimmers. </p> <p dir="ltr">They’re found in tropical waters from Bundaberg in Queensland to Geraldton in Western Australia, from November to May.</p> <p dir="ltr">Signs and symptoms to be wary of, if you think you’ve been stung by the deadly sea creature, include: severe backache or headache, shooting pains in muscles, chest and abdomen, nausea, anxiety, restlessness, vomiting and breathing difficulties. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Twitter</em></p>

Travel Trouble

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Inside a $1.5 million one-bedroom beach shack

<p dir="ltr">A tiny shack in Florida with stunning beach views has hit the market for $1.5 million ($US 1.095 million).</p> <p dir="ltr">This one bedroom home in the seaside town of Santa Rosa Beach is perfect for a single person looking for simplicity.</p> <p dir="ltr">The one storey property was built in 2016 and is described as one of the most unique properties on the street.</p> <p dir="ltr">Looking at its photos you’d think this was a joke but honestly, why not? Obviously if you don’t have money that’s a whole other story.</p> <p dir="ltr">The red door unlocks all that you need, as soon as you step into the house is the bedroom, with a bathroom and a bathtub (who would’ve thought it could fit), and the kitchenette.</p> <p dir="ltr">Outside there is an outdoor shower, a stock tank splash pool with lounging area, and a privacy fence.</p> <p dir="ltr">If you had the money, would you buy this house?</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Zillow</em></p>

Real Estate

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Bruce Willis’ former beach estate to die (hard) for

<p dir="ltr">Bruce Willis knew what to <em>Die Hard</em> for when he purchased a private beach estate with his now former wife.</p> <p dir="ltr">The lavish estate located on Parrot Cay, an island in the Turks and Caicos Islands, was home for the Hollywood actor for 20 years.</p> <p dir="ltr">Bruce and his then wife Emma Heming-Willis purchased the home in 2000 and completed renovations four years later.</p> <p dir="ltr">The couple also got married at the home in 2009 and again renewed their vows in 2019 before listing the home.</p> <p dir="ltr">He sold the home in 2019 for US$27 million to Mark and Roby Jones, the husband-and-wife duo behind multibillion-dollar insurance firm Goosehead.</p> <p dir="ltr">Once again, the 12-bedroom home is up for grabs for an eye-watering $51million (US$37.5m).</p> <p dir="ltr">The lucky homeowner will boast a stunning 330m of “pristine powder white sand and turquoise waters” - perfect for some privacy.</p> <p dir="ltr">Inside has been redesigned as a two-storey main house on 1020sqm with six bedrooms, a children’s entertainment room upstairs, and a theatre downstairs.</p> <p dir="ltr">Relaxing amenities include a yoga pavilion, four swimming pools, space on the beach for volleyball, as well as a children’s playground with a pirate ship.</p> <p dir="ltr">Several guesthouses are also scattered along the property.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: Instagram and Sothebys</em></p>

Real Estate

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Sad news after fatal Sydney shark victim identified

<p>A devastated friend of Sydney shark attack victim Simon Nellist has revealed the 35-year-old British man’s wedding to the “girl of his dreams” had been delayed due to Covid before he was killed.</p> <p>The swimmer was mauled to death by a great white shark as he trained for a charity ocean swim, ahead of his planned wedding to Sydney’s Jessie Ho.</p> <p>He was only 150m away from the beach at Buchan Point, near Little Bay in Sydney, when the shark struck. This has been the first fatal attack in the area in nearly 60 years.</p> <p>The British expat’s remains were found in the water on Wednesday afternoon following the ordeal. The tragedy happened as the former Royal Air Force (RAF) serviceman was due to marry the “girl of his dreams”.</p> <p>A close friend of Mr Nellist told The Sun: “Him and Jessie were due to get married last year but that got put off because of Covid.</p> <p>“It’s just horrendous. We spent most of yesterday just hoping and praying it wasn’t him. It’s still incredibly raw.”</p> <p>“Simon was amazing. That’s all there is to say really. He was just the best.<br />“He was the nicest, kindest human. It is a huge loss.”</p> <p>The close friend of Mr Nellis revealed that Simon “fell in love” with Australia after going travelling around six years ago. He also claimed Simon was an “experienced swimmer who really knew the water”.</p> <p>“He was massively into wildlife and knew exactly what he was doing. He wasn’t daft. It’s just a freak accident.</p> <p>“Simon was doing his diving and he would send us the most amazing videos of the wildlife out there. He was so respectful of the wildlife.</p> <p>“He finished in the RAF about six years ago and he went travelling and then just fell in love with it out there. Then he fell in love with Jessie.</p> <p>Witnesses said they heard the victim yell out for help in desperation as the shark pounced just after 4:30 pm on Wednesday.</p> <p>The great white allegedly “attacked vertically” before dragging the man’s body out of the ocean.<br />Expert Lawrence Chlebeck said that the ferocious shark probably mistook the swimmer, reportedly wearing a wetsuit, for a seal when it launched and attacked.</p> <p>The 35-year-old was a regular swimmer in the bay where the frenzy occurred, according to local MP Michael Daley.</p> <p>One of the swimmer’s heartbroken friends, Della Ross, told Seven News: “Everything that is connected to Simon is connected to the ocean.<br />“He loved the water, he loved diving.”</p> <p><em>Images: Facebook</em></p>

News

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Huge underdog named best beach in Australia

<p dir="ltr">Despite its ominous name, Western Australia’s Misery Beach has been <a href="https://travel.nine.com.au/latest/misery-beach-named-best-beach-in-australia-tourism-australia/8dc02a17-949e-48b7-8553-fe6ca45fdacb" target="_blank" rel="noopener">dubbed</a> the country’s best.</p><p dir="ltr">Brad Farmer, Tourism Australia’s beach ambassador, curated a top list of the best beaches Australia had to offer in 2022, whittling a list of 11,000 candidates down to just 20. </p><p dir="ltr">Going up against international favourites like Bondi, Byron and Noosa, Misery Beach came out on top.</p><p dir="ltr">“It’s a stunning beach,” Farmer told the <em><a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-01-30/australia-best-beach-misery-beach-albany-wa/100714820" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ABC</a></em>. </p><p dir="ltr">“It just ticks all the boxes of what the typical beachgoer is looking for - uncrowded, crystal-white sand, turquoise waters and a very dramatic granite backdrop.”</p><p><span id="docs-internal-guid-2ceca9ba-7fff-060a-92ab-95fb902a2234"></span></p><p dir="ltr">Located 20 kilometres south of Albany on Western Australia’s south coast, Mystery Beach is about five hours southeast of Perth.</p><blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF;border: 0;border-radius: 3px;margin: 1px;max-width: 540px;min-width: 326px;padding: 0;width: calc(100% - 2px)" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CVB0vKnhmmK/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"><div style="padding: 16px"><div style="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="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="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><div style="padding: 12.5% 0"> </div><div style="flex-direction: row;margin-bottom: 14px;align-items: center"><div><div style="background-color: #f4f4f4;border-radius: 50%;height: 12.5px;width: 12.5px"> </div><div style="background-color: #f4f4f4;height: 12.5px;width: 12.5px;flex-grow: 0;margin-right: 14px;margin-left: 2px"> </div><div style="background-color: #f4f4f4;border-radius: 50%;height: 12.5px;width: 12.5px"> </div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px"><div style="background-color: #f4f4f4;border-radius: 50%;flex-grow: 0;height: 20px;width: 20px"> </div><div style="width: 0;height: 0;border-top: 2px solid transparent;border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4;border-bottom: 2px solid transparent"> </div></div><div style="margin-left: auto"><div style="width: 0px;border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4;border-right: 8px solid transparent"> </div><div style="background-color: #f4f4f4;flex-grow: 0;height: 12px;width: 16px"> </div><div style="width: 0;height: 0;border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4;border-left: 8px solid transparent"> </div></div></div><div style="flex-direction: column;flex-grow: 1;justify-content: center;margin-bottom: 24px"><div style="background-color: #f4f4f4;border-radius: 4px;flex-grow: 0;height: 14px;margin-bottom: 6px;width: 224px"> </div><div style="background-color: #f4f4f4;border-radius: 4px;flex-grow: 0;height: 14px;width: 144px"> </div></div><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"><a style="color: #c9c8cd;font-family: Arial,sans-serif;font-size: 14px;font-style: normal;font-weight: normal;line-height: 17px;text-decoration: none" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CVB0vKnhmmK/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by BIG Drone Prints (@bigdroneprints)</a></p></div></blockquote><p dir="ltr">Unlike its more well-known competitors, Misery Beach has a bloody history that makes its name quite appropriate.</p><p dir="ltr">Until 1978, the sand and surrounding water would be stained red with the blood of slaughtered sperm whales, due to its proximity to a major whaling station.</p><p dir="ltr">With blood, fat and teeth in the water, Misery Beach was a poor choice for swimming, though it was a good spot for spearfishing and camping.</p><p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-19af1842-7fff-1f42-57aa-31ef11dbf745"></span></p><p dir="ltr">Since the whaling station shut down 44 years ago, the beach has become the safe haven for marine life it is today, with seals, dolphins and whales appearing in its waters.</p><blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF;border: 0;border-radius: 3px;margin: 1px;max-width: 540px;min-width: 326px;padding: 0;width: calc(100% - 2px)" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CJ70gjNrmaM/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"><div style="padding: 16px"><div style="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="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="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><div style="padding: 12.5% 0"> </div><div style="flex-direction: row;margin-bottom: 14px;align-items: center"><div><div style="background-color: #f4f4f4;border-radius: 50%;height: 12.5px;width: 12.5px"> </div><div style="background-color: #f4f4f4;height: 12.5px;width: 12.5px;flex-grow: 0;margin-right: 14px;margin-left: 2px"> </div><div style="background-color: #f4f4f4;border-radius: 50%;height: 12.5px;width: 12.5px"> </div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px"><div style="background-color: #f4f4f4;border-radius: 50%;flex-grow: 0;height: 20px;width: 20px"> </div><div style="width: 0;height: 0;border-top: 2px solid transparent;border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4;border-bottom: 2px solid transparent"> </div></div><div style="margin-left: auto"><div style="width: 0px;border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4;border-right: 8px solid transparent"> </div><div style="background-color: #f4f4f4;flex-grow: 0;height: 12px;width: 16px"> </div><div style="width: 0;height: 0;border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4;border-left: 8px solid transparent"> </div></div></div><div style="flex-direction: column;flex-grow: 1;justify-content: center;margin-bottom: 24px"><div style="background-color: #f4f4f4;border-radius: 4px;flex-grow: 0;height: 14px;margin-bottom: 6px;width: 224px"> </div><div style="background-color: #f4f4f4;border-radius: 4px;flex-grow: 0;height: 14px;width: 144px"> </div></div><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"><a style="color: #c9c8cd;font-family: Arial,sans-serif;font-size: 14px;font-style: normal;font-weight: normal;line-height: 17px;text-decoration: none" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CJ70gjNrmaM/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Jetstar Australia (@jetstaraustralia)</a></p></div></blockquote><p dir="ltr">With its unique history, Farmer said it was a compelling enough reason to bestow the accolade on the beach.</p><p dir="ltr">That, and because he finds many of Australia’s beaches to be “fatigued and overexposed” to beachgoers, who are looking more for “quirky and out-of-the-box” spots to enjoy.</p><p dir="ltr">As a result, the big-name beaches are nowhere to be seen on Farmer’s list.</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Tourism Australia’s top 20 beaches in 2022</strong></p><ol><li><p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Misery Beach, Western Australia — Minang Country.</p></li><li><p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Horseshoe Bay, New South Wales — Dainggatti Country.</p></li><li><p dir="ltr" role="presentation">The Spit, Queensland — Bundjalung Country.</p></li><li><p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Flaherty's Beach, South Australia — Narangga Country.</p></li><li><p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Loch Ard Gorge, Victoria — Giraiwurung Country.</p></li><li><p dir="ltr" role="presentation">The Neck, Tasmania — Nuenonne Country on Lunnawannalonna.</p></li><li><p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Blue Pearl Bay, Queensland — Giya Country.</p></li><li><p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Depot Beach, New South Wales — Yuin Country.</p></li><li><p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Murrays Beach, Jervis Bay Territory — Yuin/Tharawal Country.</p></li><li><p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Dundee Beach, Northern Territory — Larrakia/Wadyiginy Country.</p></li><li><p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Dudley Beach, New South Wales — Awabakal Country.</p></li><li><p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Thompsons Beach, Victoria — Waveroo/Yorta Yorta Country.</p></li><li><p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Coogee Beach, Western Australia — Wajuk Country.</p></li><li><p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Mots Beach, Victoria — Kurnai Country.</p></li><li><p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Alexandria Bay, Queensland — Gubbi Gubbi Country.</p></li><li><p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Emu Bay, South Australia.</p></li><li><p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Lake Wabby, Queensland — Butchulla Country.</p></li><li><p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Congwong Beach, New South Wales — Eora/Tharawal Country.</p></li><li><p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Jellybean Pool, New South Wales — Dharug Country.</p></li><li><p dir="ltr" role="presentation">Ethel Beach, Christmas Island.</p></li></ol><p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-5b5edc5e-7fff-394c-7139-196bf626c4b9"></span></p><p dir="ltr"><em>Image: @australias_southwest (<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B9q651Tp-ea/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a>)</em></p>

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CDC and EU slap restrictions on travel to Australia

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">As Covid-19 case numbers continue to rise due to the Omicron wave, two major international governing bodies have warned against travelling to Australia. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">America’s Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the European Union have both identified Australia as a “Covid danger zone”, and warned their residents against travelling Down Under. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The EU’s concerns could see Aussie travellers banned from entering Europe or forced into mandatory quarantine when arriving on European soil. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Australia joins Canada and Argentina on the EU’s “danger zone”, as European Council officials recommend restrictions not be relaxed for these countries. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The new directive means that non-essential travel to Europe from Australia could be banned by individual EU countries, although Cyprus, Greece and Italy have already gone against the ruling. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The CDC came to a similar decision about the fate of Aussie travellers, as Australia joined the likes of Israel, Argentina, Egypt, and 18 other countries on a “very high” Covid warning. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">America’s health protection agency told US residents they should avoid travelling to the “dangerous” countries that feature in the CDC’s “level four: very high risk” list. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Australia first banned international tourists at the start of the pandemic in March 2020, but has recently started to relax restrictions as the nation’s leaders are encouraging everyone to “live with the virus”.</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image credits: Getty Images</span></em></p>

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