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Italian village offers $1 homes to Americans upset by US election results

<p>An Italian village in Sardinia, Italy is offering one-euro homes to Americans seeking a new start following the results of the 2024 U.S election that saw Donald Trump being re-elected as president. </p> <p>Ollolai has long been trying to persuade outsiders to move in to revive the community after decades of depopulation. </p> <p>Now, it's selling dilapidated houses for as little as one euro — just over a US dollar or $AU1.60 — to entice Americans to move abroad. </p> <p>Following the November 5 outcome, they have launched a website aimed at potential American expats, offering cheap homes in hopes that those disappointed by the result and seeking a fresh start will snap up one of their empty properties. </p> <p>"Are you worned (sic) out by global politics? Looking to embrace a more balanced lifestyle while securing new opportunities?" the website read. </p> <p>"It's time to start building your European escape in the stunning paradise of Sardinia."</p> <p>Mayor Francesco Columbu told CNN that the website was specifically created to attract American voters in the wake of the presidential elections.</p> <p>The mayor loves the United States and is convinced Americans would be the best people to revive the community. </p> <p>"We just really want, and will focus on, Americans above all," he said. </p> <p>"We can't of course ban people from other countries to apply, but Americans will have a fast-track procedure. We are betting on them to help us revive the village, they are our winning card."</p> <p>The village is offering three tiers of accommodation: Free temporary homes to certain digital nomads, ($1.6) homes in need of renovations, and ready-to-occupy houses for prices up to $160,000.</p> <p>The mayor also set up a special team to guide interested buyers through every step of the process including finding contractors, builders and navigating required paperwork. </p> <p>"Of course, we can't specifically mention the name of one US president who just got elected, but we all know that he's the one from whom many Americans want to get away from now and leave the country," Columbo added. </p> <p>"We have specifically created this website now to meet US post-elections relocation needs. The first edition of our digital nomad scheme which launched last year was already solely for Americans."</p> <p>Photos and plans of available empty properties will soon be uploaded to the website. </p> <p>The website has since received nearly 38,000 requests for information on houses, with most of them coming from the United States</p> <p>In the past century, Ollolai's population has shrunk from 2,250 to 1,300 with only a handful of babies born each year. </p> <p>Over the last few years, this has dropped 1,150 residents. </p> <p><em>Image: Shutterstock</em></p> <p> </p>

International Travel

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First look at Rebel Wilson's Italian wedding

<p>Rebel Wilson has <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/relationships/rebel-wilson-ties-the-knot-in-italian-destination-wedding" target="_blank" rel="noopener">tied the knot</a> with her partner Ramona Agruma, with the Aussie actress sharing the first glimpse into their special day. </p> <p>Sharing a picture of herself and new wife, who donned matching white wedding dresses by designer Pronovias, Wilson captioned the snap: "Married" alongside a ring emoji. </p> <p>She added their wedding date, writing: "Sardinia 28.9.24."</p> <p>The happy couple smiled widely as they looked loved-up while holding their bouquets, with the stunning Italian water behind them. </p> <p>Wilson's bridal gown featured an off-the-shoulder design and a full, A-line skirt, while she had her blonde hair pinned back on one side with a jewelled hair clip. </p> <p>Fans and followers flocked to comment underneath, including Wilson's former Pitch Perfect co-star, Adam Devine, who wrote, "Both of you look stunning! Congrats Rebs. Look at us all grown up! So happy for you!"</p> <p>After the wedding, Rebel shared more photos with Ramona of the newlyweds enjoying their honeymoon in Paris as they attended Paris Fashion Week shows.</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/DAlXAZvMc3w/?utm_source=ig_embed&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/DAlXAZvMc3w/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Rebel Wilson (@rebelwilson)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>"Serious honeymooning going on in Paris," she wrote as the pair donned black outfits to sit in the front row of the Maison Yoshiki fashion show. </p> <p style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; caret-color: #212529; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji';">The couple got married in the Italian island of Sardinia, which holds special significance to the pair as it was the place where they took their first holiday as a couple, days after going public with their relationship on Instagram in 2022. </p> <p style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; caret-color: #212529; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji';">“I thought I was searching for a Disney Prince… but maybe what I really needed all this time was a Disney Princess #loveislove,” Rebel wrote in a heartfelt Instagram post of the pair shortly after they went public with their romance. </p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram </em></p> <p> </p>

Relationships

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Rebel Wilson ties the knot in Italian destination wedding

<p>Rebel Wilson has reportedly tied the knot with her partner Ramona Agruma. </p> <p>Sources told <a href="https://people.com/rebel-wilson-marries-ramona-agruma-italy-exclusive-8705241" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>People</em></a> the nuptials went ahead on September 28, in Sardinia, Italy. </p> <p>Sardinia holds special significance to the pair, as it was the place where they took their first holiday as a couple, days after going public with their relationship on Instagram in 2022. </p> <p>“I thought I was searching for a Disney Prince… but maybe what I really needed all this time was a Disney Princess #loveislove,” Rebel wrote in a heartfelt Instagram post of the pair shortly after they went public with their romance. </p> <p>After just seven months of dating, the couple were engaged, with Wilson announcing the happy news of their fairytale Disney proposal on Instagram. </p> <p>“We said YES!” wrote Wilson alongside a series of photos taken in front of the Sleeping Beauty Castle. </p> <p>“Thank you Tiffany &amp; Co. for the stunning ring and to Bob Iger and the incredible team at Disneyland for pulling off this magical surprise!”</p> <p>That same month, the pair welcomed a baby girl, Royce, via a surrogate. </p> <p>The couple have been together since around January 2022, having been introduced to each other by their mutual friend,  Aussie actor Hugh Sheridan.</p> <p>In an interview with People magazine she recalled the origins of their relationship, telling the outlet that ahe and Agruma were speaking “on the phone for weeks” after they were introduced to each other. </p> <p>“It was a bit old-school in that sense – very romantic,” she said.</p> <p>“I think going through the process of finding more self-worth, I think that what you want in a partner is elevated, so it’s great to have someone who feels like an equal partner and to be in a healthy relationship.”</p> <p>“I thought I was really looking for a husband, dating about 50 guys in one year. I was always a bit of a girls’ girl and had deep friendships with women, but this was the first time that it was a romantic connection,” she added. </p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p> <p> </p>

Relationships

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Gold medallist sleeps in Paris park to protest "disappointing" Olympic village conditions

<p>A gold medallist has been spotted sleeping in a Paris park in protest of the conditions in the Olympic village. </p> <p>Italian swimmer Thomas Ceccon was captured sleeping atop a white towel in a park located inside the Olympic village by Saudi rower Husein Alireza. </p> <p>Alireza posted the photo to Instagram with the caption, "Rest today, conquer tomorrow."</p> <p>The Italian swimmer, who won gold in the 100m backstroke, had already complained publicly about the accommodations in the Olympic Village, after he failed to reach the 200m backstroke final on Wednesday.</p> <p>Since the commencement of the Paris Games, many athletes have spoken out about the conditions in the Olympic village, saying the beds are uncomfortable, the rooms are poorly air conditioned and the food is poor quality. </p> <p>“There is no air-conditioning in the village, it’s hot, the food is bad,” Ceccon said, according to <a href="https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/29673636/thomas-ceccon-sleeping-park-conditions-olympic-village-paris/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>The Sun</em>. </a></p> <p>“Many athletes move for this reason: it’s not an alibi or an excuse, it’s the reality of what perhaps not everybody knows."</p> <p>“I’m disappointed that I didn’t make the final, but I was too tired. It’s hard to sleep both at night and in the afternoon. Here, I really struggle between the heat and the noise.”</p> <p>Andy Anson, the chief of the British Olympic Association, also voiced concerns about how the quality of the village is affecting athletes, telling <em>The Times of London</em>, “There are not enough of certain foods: eggs, chicken, certain carbohydrates.”</p> <p>“And then there is the quality of the food, with raw meat being served to athletes.”</p> <p>A number of athletes, including the entire US women’s tennis team (with the exception of Coco Gauff) have left the village and searched for alternate accommodation for the duration of the Games. </p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram/Panoramic/SIPA/SIPA/Shutterstock Editorial </em></p>

Travel Trouble

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Read this before choosing a retirement village

<p>Making the move from your own home into a retirement village is a huge decision. And with more than 2,000 villages around the country there’s a world of choice. These are some of the things you need to know before you make the move.</p> <p><strong>Get your priorities straight</strong></p> <p>Think about the kind of village you can see yourself living in. Make a list of features that you absolutely must have and a list of those that are desirable but not essential. Don’t be tempted to compromise on the first list because you could end up very unhappy in the long run.</p> <p>Do your research and find a village that meets your requirements. Don’t rush into somewhere that you aren’t completely sure about.</p> <p><strong>Money, money, money</strong></p> <p>Retirement villages aren’t cheap so you’ll need to be realistic about what it’s going to cost and how much you have to spend. It’s a good idea to see a professional financial adviser to get a complete picture of your financial situation, including things like selling your current home, super and any shares you own.</p> <p>You will have to sign a contract with the village before you move in, so get your financial adviser or a lawyer to go over it with you and make sure you understand all your obligations.</p> <p><strong>Location is key</strong></p> <p>As with any move, you need to think carefully about location. If the village is a long way from your current residence it can drastically alter your social life and connections with friends and family.</p> <p>You also need to think about proximity to public transport, shops, health services and community activities.</p> <p><strong>Choose your style</strong></p> <p>Retirement villages range from self-contained independent living to serviced accommodation and residential aged care. They also vary greatly in size from just a handful of units to villages with hundreds of residents. Larger villages tend to have more facilities, so if you’re an active person who loves to swim or play tennis then this could be the choice for you.</p> <p>However, extra facilities come with extra costs so if these aren’t important to you then you could find a cheaper option. You’ll also want to find out about communal dining options and social activities or groups within the village.</p> <p><strong>Get the help you need</strong></p> <p>As with accommodation styles, there is a wide range in the levels of assistance available. This can be as basic as having a cleaner come once a week right up to full nursing care. Some villages have the option to raise your level of care as you age or become unwell, which can be a better option than moving into a new village.</p> <p><strong>Stick to the rules</strong></p> <p>Can visitors stay the night? Can I have a pet? Is there a system for resolving disputes? You’ll want to be familiar with the rules and regulations of the village so read the fine print in your contract or ask questions before you commit.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images </em></p>

Retirement Life

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Sia gets married in intimate Italian wedding

<p dir="ltr">Australian superstar Sia has tied the knot with Dan Bernard in an intimate ceremony in Portofino, Italy on Monday.</p> <p dir="ltr">The ceremony was held at Villa Olivetta, the home of designers Stefano Dolce and Domenico Gabbana, and the same location where Kourtney Kardashian wed Travis Baker in April.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Chandelier singer donned a light pink, lace embroidered fishtail gown, with long sleeves and a matching veil.</p> <p dir="ltr">Her hair was styled in an intricate updo in true Sia style.</p> <p dir="ltr">The singer’s new husband matched the wedding’s pastel colour palette in a light blue suit with a bow tie and black dress shoes.</p> <p dir="ltr">In one photo, staff were seen helping the singer climb up a set of stairs as she headed to the cliffside ceremony.</p> <p dir="ltr">The newlyweds sealed their marriage with a kiss under an archway of pastel flowers and were smiling from ear to ear as they exchanged their rings.</p> <p dir="ltr">Sia has kept the romance with Bernard low-key, so it is unknown when the pair first started dating, but has <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cj-p6FXLyBK/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">shared a snap </a>with him back in October 2022.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CsCTdW-Pkf3/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Instagram</a></em></p>

Relationships

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Italian historian makes major Mona Lisa breakthrough

<p dir="ltr">A small town in Tuscany is revelling in excitement after it was claimed that a bridge in the backdrop of the Mona Lisa belongs to the town. </p> <p dir="ltr">Italian historian Silvano Vinceti determined that the bridge in the background of the most famous portrait in the world is in fact the Romito di Laterina bridge in the province of Arezzo: about 80km southeast of Florence. </p> <p dir="ltr">Leonardo da Vinci painted the masterpiece in Florence in the early 16th century, and ever since, it has been subject to disputes over the inspiration for the portrait. </p> <p dir="ltr">The identity of the woman in the painting - who is widely believed to be Lisa del Giocondo – has triggered as much speculation as the distant backdrop.</p> <p dir="ltr">Past theories have identified the bridge as Ponte Buriano, close to Laterina, as well as Ponte Bobbio in the northern Italian city of Piacenza.</p> <p dir="ltr">Using historical documents and drone images, and by making comparisons between the painting and photographs of the area, Vinceti said he is confident it was “the Etruscan-Roman bridge, Romito”.</p> <p dir="ltr">Vinceti told reporters in Rome that the most telling detail of the bridge’s identity is the number of arches. </p> <p dir="ltr">The bridge in Leonardo’s painting had four arches, as did the Romito. Ponte Buriano, on the other hand, has six arches, while Ponte Bobbio has more than six.</p> <p dir="ltr">Another telltale sign, according to Vinceti, is the fact that the bridge was once a “very busy, functioning bridge”, that provided a shortcut between Florence and Arezzo.</p> <p dir="ltr">Simona Neri, the mayor of Laterina, said Vinceti’s theory had caused a lot of excitement in the town of just over 3,500 people. </p> <p dir="ltr">She said, “We need to try to protect what’s left of the bridge.”</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

Art

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Planning the move to a retirement village

<p>For many, retirement brings with it a new lease on life – whether that comes in the form of an opportunity to seek fresh challenges, studying something you’ve always been interested in, volunteer, travelling, help looking after your grandchildren or learning new skills. In any case, planning what you want your retirement years to look like is the best way to discover what direction you might like to go in.</p> <p>Planning allows you to be well prepared – both financially and emotionally – and gives you the best chance of achieving the financial security and lifestyle you would like in the years ahead. Ultimately it also gives you the ability to take control of your life. Do it when you are healthy and independent and can make well-informed decisions. Here are some things to consider when you start making plans to move to a retirement village.</p> <p><strong>A time of change</strong></p> <p>Where you live in retirement can greatly affect your quality of life. It is hard to predict what the type of housing that suits you early in your retirement may not suit your needs later. The need to change housing or location can be triggered by changing health needs, the loss of a driver’s licence or the need to be closer to essential services. You may need to occasionally reassess where you are living to see whether it still suits your needs.</p> <p><strong>What are your options?</strong></p> <p>Only you can decide what housing will suit you best but here are some option and issues to consider, whether you choose to stay in your home, or move either to other private accommodation, public housing, a retirement village or nursing home.</p> <p><strong>Location, location, location</strong></p> <p>Before you decide to move, ask yourself the following questions:</p> <ul> <li>What type of accommodation will suit your needs?</li> <li>Where are the shops, support services and transport located?</li> <li>What is the cost of public transport and how accessible is it?</li> <li>How accessible will your family and friends be?</li> <li>Will the activities you enjoy be easily accessible?</li> </ul> <p>Also consider all options before you move to your favourite destination. It can be very different when you are living somewhere rather than just visiting on holiday. Sometimes holiday destinations lack a range of suitable amenities and you could be forced to relocate if your needs change.</p> <p><strong>Retirement villages</strong></p> <p>Retirement villages usually have self-contained units with one or two bedrooms and some communal facilities and regulated by the Retirement Villages Act 2003. </p> <p>While retirement village living does not suit everyone, many people thrive on the companionship and feel safe and secure in the environment.</p> <p>It is important to be fully aware of the economic, legal and lifestyle implications involved in moving to a retirement involved in moving to a retirement village. Some of the issues to consider include:</p> <p><strong>Money wise</strong></p> <p>The earlier you develop a financial plan, the more likely you are to achiever your financial goals and preferred lifestyle in retirement. Do you need a financial advisor?</p> <p>It is worthwhile taking to an experienced and licensed financial advisor to review your total financial status and offer advice about what might make your assets work for you in the best way, taking into consideration your income, goals, objectives and attitude towards financial risk.</p> <p><em>Images: Shutterstock</em></p>

Retirement Life

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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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Tips for choosing a retirement village

<p>Making the decision to move to a retirement village is a big step. There is a lot to consider and it’s something you want to make sure you get right the first time. Given all of that, take your time. You're more likely to choose the right place to retire if you don't make a quick decision. Here are our top tips to help you make the right choice.</p> <ul> <li>Think ahead and consider what you might need in the future - will you be able to continue to live there if your health or mobility declines?</li> </ul> <ul> <li>Imagine the lifestyle you'd like to have in a retirement village, and make a list of the things you think are most important.</li> </ul> <ul> <li>Visit different villages and find out about the lifestyles they offer, including housing options, facilities and services.</li> </ul> <ul> <li>Talk to the residents - they know better than anyone what life is like in the village they live in.</li> </ul> <ul> <li>Read the disclosure statement and occupation right agreement for the village.</li> </ul> <ul> <li>Find out the total costs. What will you have to pay on entry? What are the ongoing expenses? Will you share in any capital gain when you leave? Will you have to pay for any capital loss? How will these affect your future and the choices you have?</li> </ul> <ul> <li>Get independent financial advice from a financial planner or accountant with experience in retirement villages.</li> </ul> <ul> <li>Get independent legal advice from a lawyer with experience in retirement villages. Ask them about the different legal titles and what they mean.</li> </ul> <ul> <li>Involve your family or friends in your decision.</li> </ul>

Retirement Life

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Garlic pizza

<p>For the perfect starter to any Italian feast, you’ll want to try this garlic pizza.</p> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Serves</span>:</strong> 6</p> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Ingredients:</span></strong></p> <ul> <li>3 cups plain flour, sifted</li> <li>2 teaspoons dried yeast</li> <li>1 teaspoon salt</li> <li>1 ¼ cups warm water</li> <li>3 garlic cloves, diced  </li> <li>½ cup olive oil, plus extra to brush</li> <li>1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped</li> <li>Salt and pepper, to season</li> </ul> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Method:</span></strong></p> <p>1. Mix flour, yeast and salt in large bowl. Make a well in the centre and gradually pour water and one tablespoon of oil. Using your hands, combine the mixture until dough forms. Place on lightly floured surface and knead dough until smooth and elastic. Store dough in covered bowl and set aside for an hour or until dough has risen in size.</p> <p>2. Meanwhile, combine olive oil, garlic and rosemary together in bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Let sit so flavours infuse.</p> <p>3. Preheat oven to 220°C. Grease baking trays with olive oil.</p> <p>4. Divide dough into 6 portions and roll each out to equal-sized discs. Sprinkle with olive oil mixture and bake in oven for 10 minutes or until pizza is crisp and puffed. Cut into wedges and serve with salad.</p> <p><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

Food & Wine

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Man’s huge legal debacle after mother dies in retirement village

<p dir="ltr">Heartbroken Aussies who have lost a family member at retirement villages have been left fuming after being slapped with hidden fees. </p> <p dir="ltr">Gerard Grant lost his mother Dulcie almost two years ago and grieved her death, hoping her affairs would be a simple process. </p> <p dir="ltr">Mr Grant decided to lease the unit that his mother had been staying at for 15 years when he was shocked to find that he would instead be faced with a $55,000 bill for renovations. </p> <p dir="ltr">"It was listing everything from changing over toilets, to door handles, to electrical work," he told <a href="https://9now.nine.com.au/a-current-affair/aussies-warn-about-retirement-village-exit-fees/2c9a556c-c0ae-479b-be91-e33065392676" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A Current Affair.</a> </p> <p dir="ltr">"It was basically gutting the entire unit and installing everything brand new, which, in our view, was incredibly unreasonable and unwarranted, an absolute waste of money.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Mr Grant was not having any of it and challenged the retirement village, which is now run by Centennial Living, who then lawyered up. </p> <p dir="ltr">Lawyers sent Mr Grant letters of demand to settle the sale of the lease which should see the family pocket a huge $500,000.</p> <p dir="ltr">However, the lawyers argued that the retirement village was entitled to the $55,000 for refurbishments. </p> <p dir="ltr">It was then that Mr Grant suspected that his mother’s unit was not empty, so he called the landline and a woman called telling him that she had moved in. </p> <p dir="ltr">Mr Grant told the woman that she shouldn’t be there because they haven’t yet given over the certificate for the lease.</p> <p dir="ltr">Ian Henschke, the chief advocate for National Seniors Australia, noted it was important for families to understand what they were getting into with retirement villages. </p> <p dir="ltr">"A lot of people don't realise is what they're often doing is simply buying a lease on the property. They don't own it," he said.</p> <p dir="ltr">He warned that families are left with costs and exit fees they never expected due to the complicated contract. </p> <p dir="ltr">Mr Henschke said it was up to the state governments to make it an easier process stating it was not fair on older citizens. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: A Current Affair </em></p>

Retirement Life

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An Italian lodge jumps the Swiss border

<p dir="ltr">The borders in the European Alps have been the source of some strange happenings recently, including a border-jumping ski lodge.</p> <p dir="ltr">Refugio Cervino, a two-storey lodge built on the Italian side of Theodul Glacier, has been slowly moving towards Switzerland - and its international movement has called its ownership and national boundaries into dispute.</p> <p dir="ltr">The border between Italy and Switzerland has previously been defined at the boundary of the Theodul drainage divide, the point where melted water either flows south to Italy or north towards Switzerland.</p> <p dir="ltr">However, rising temperatures have changed the flow of water.</p> <p dir="ltr">As a result, two-thirds of the Refugio sits in Switzerland while the remaining third is in Italy, and has become a subject of diplomatic negotiations.</p> <p dir="ltr">According to Agence France Presse, a compromise to redraw the boundaries was reached last year - but that doesn’t stop the ever-increasing glacier melt.</p> <p dir="ltr">Swisstopo, which stays on top of the official boundaries of the Confédération Helvétique, will be changing the boundaries in 2023.</p> <p dir="ltr">"We agreed to split the difference," chief border official Alain Wicht told AFP.</p> <p dir="ltr">Though international surveyors have previously been brought in to determine where the boundary should sit previously, Mr Wicht says the Refugio is a sensitive issue as the Theodul Glacier is “the only place where we suddenly had a building involved”.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Swiss have taken a more neutral stance in the debate, but the Italians are unwilling to part with the building without compensation, </p> <p dir="ltr">"The refuge remains Italian because we have always been Italian," Refugio’s caretaker, 51-year-old Lucio Trucco, says.</p> <p dir="ltr">For now, the refuge will be an enclave of Italy within Switzerland until the borders are changed.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-3d7b9463-7fff-3769-cf91-d68e9a97682f"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Getty Images</em></p>

International Travel

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Why Richard Gere is set to testify in Italian kidnapping trial

<p dir="ltr">Actor Richard Gere has been named as a witness in a high-profile Italian kidnapping trial involving former government minister Matteo Salvini. Salvini, the populist leader of the right-wing League Party, is facing kidnapping charges for refusing to let a migrant ship dock in the country. If convicted, he faces up to 15 years in jail and being barred from running for office.</p> <p dir="ltr">Gere was in Italy in August 2019, when Salvini refused for days to let a boat carrying about 150 migrants rescued at sea to dock in Italy. The vessel was operated by the NGO Proactiva Open Arms, and Gere visited the boat in an effort to draw international attention to the situation. Activists described the conditions on board and the Italian government’s failure to act as a humanitarian crisis at the time.</p> <p dir="ltr">Salvini has said that the inclusion of Gere in the list of witnesses proves the case against him should not be taken seriously. "Now you tell me how serious is a trial where Richard Gere comes from Hollywood to testify on how bad I am," Mr Salvini said. Other witnesses include former Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, as well as other senior Italian political figures.</p> <p dir="ltr">Proactiva Open Arms told the court that Gere could give a direct account of the conditions on board the vessel, which was stranded off the Italian island of Lampedusa for 19 days before prosecutors ordered its evacuation. At present, it is not clear whether Gere will appear in person or via video.</p> <p dir="ltr">Salvini, a populist known for his anti-immigrant campaigns, argues that he was simply doing his duty as minister by refusing to allow the migrants to disembark. He said, "Defending a country's borders, security, honour and dignity is not just a minister's duty but everyone's duty.</p> <p dir="ltr">"Being put on trial for just doing my duty is surreal. A Spanish boat refusing to go to Spain commits an abuse. If Spain gives its flag to boats it does not manage to control, then there is a problem".</p> <p dir="ltr">The next hearing is scheduled for December 17.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Michael Loccisano/WireImage/Getty Images</em></p>

Legal

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Man arrested for allegedly dealing drugs from retirement home

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A man has been arrested after allegedly dealing drugs from his unit at a retirement village in Sydney’s north-west.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">62-year-old Gary Halford has allegedly been selling ice, cannabis, and LSD from his home at Mountainview Retreat in Dural.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Detectives had been monitoring the facility for several months in the lead-up to the man’s arrest, after neighbours reported people coming and going without masks to Crime Stoppers.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“It’s dreadful … and we’ve been advocating for quite a while for something to be done,” resident Elaine said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Mr Halford was arrested last week in Baulkham Hills, about 10 kilometres from his home, with police allegedly finding ice and cannabis inside his Ford Falcon.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“In a subsequent search of the Ford Falcon, investigators seized cannabis, methylamphetamine (ice) and a mobile phone,” NSW Police said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Police then searched the Dural unit, where they seized 12 grams of cannabis, six LSD tabs, a baton, and electronic devices.</span></p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height:281px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7843564/https___prodstatic9net-12.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/4eeaf771d9f94f05a76369cc139cc805" /></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: Supplied</span></em></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Mr Halford now faces six charges of possessing prohibited drugs, supply, and possessing a prohibited weapon.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">He has been released on bail and is due to face court in September.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">His passenger, 37-year-old Lyndall Cook, was charged with breaching COVID-19 rules and is due to face court at a later date.</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: Supplied</span></em></p>

Legal

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Have a peek inside George Clooney’s dreamy Italian mansion

<p>George Clooney is easily one of the most recognisable faces in the western world.</p> <p>He is also renowned for his international property portfolio.</p> <p>One of his favourite places is surely one of yours as well – his idyllic mansion in Lake Como, Italy.</p> <p>The star bought the Italian villa in 2002 and paid an eye-watering €11.7 million (NZD $19.7 million) for the property.</p> <p>The 18<sup>th</sup> century estate features several extraordinary features including 25 rooms, an outdoor theatre, a swimming pool, and a garage big enough to house his number of vehicles and motorcycles.</p> <p>This luxurious home has a tennis court as well, along with a full gym, landscaped gardens, incredibly ornate ceilings, a separate “pizza room”, and a meticulously constructed wall to keep water from pouring directly into the house.</p> <p>Lake Como is home to many international celebs, including Donatella Versace who is reportedly within walking distance from Clooney.</p> <p>George Clooney is reported to have said that his villa is one of his best purchases.</p> <p>“[It] changed my life in a very pleasant and unexpected way…</p> <p>“I realized how beautiful life was in Italy and how it really helped calm me and not feel so pressured.”</p>

Real Estate

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An Italian museum’s innovative way of tracking viewer interactions

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Art researchers in Italy have discovered a new way to help more accurately curate popular museum exhibitions. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Working with the Italian national agency for new technologies, the Istituzione Bologna Musei in Bologna has installed 14 small cameras that use artificial intelligence (AI) to study the reactions of viewers. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The cameras pick up facial expressions, posture and positioning of those who pass through the gallery on a daily basis. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The data collected by these cameras is then used to draw broader conclusions about future exhibits and specific artworks. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Researcher Riccardo Scipinotti came up with the initiative, referred to as ShareArt, to record how long visitors look at art, the paths they take through galleries, where their eyes are drawn to on particular canvases.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">All of these factors make up each piece of art’s “attraction value”, as well as analysing which exhibits are the most popular. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The ShareArt technology has the potential to revolutionise the museum and art world, as the data shared from the AI could determine placement of certain works in a gallery, how works are lit or hung, or how works are displayed in relation to one another.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The team of researchers began to roll out ShareArt in early July as COVID-19 restrictions were lifted in Italy, and has already started to yield interesting results. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The technology is also fitted to detect if museum-goers are flouting making-wearing rules.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The AI device is programmed to flash red if a visitor is wearing their mask incorrectly, or not wearing one at all. </span></p> <p><em>Image credit: Shutterstock</em></p>

Art

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Bargain Italian homes sell for under $2

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Houses in Italy are selling for as little as one euro, thanks to a new initiative started by several Italian municipalities.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The 1 Euro House Project hopes to revitalise particular areas of the country and stem the rate of residents moving away.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sambuca di Sicilia, a municipality in the region of Sicily, has seen incredible success from the initiative, with approximately 16 dwellings being purchased since the scheme was announced in 2019.</span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CODg8wLNIqu/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="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;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CODg8wLNIqu/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Bell’Italia (@bellitalia_magazine)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Since then, Sambuca has attracted reporters and foreign buyers looking for a bargain home.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Though the reasons behind Sambuca’s huge popularity in comparison to other unpopulated towns involved in the scheme are unknown, the area has hopes to replicate its initial success.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A second batch of abandoned homes have been put on the market for a symbolic two euros (NZD $3.38).</span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CKG2wZbslyR/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="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;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CKG2wZbslyR/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Sambuca di Sicilia (@sambucadisicilia)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Since the 2019 scheme, local authorities have continued to receive requests from foreigners interested in buying a bargain property. In response to the continued interest, they have decided to sell about 20 abandoned buildings, many of which are adjacent houses, giving buyers an opportunity to buy more than one and knock them through.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The chosen properties are all within the old “Saracen” neighbourhood, which were abandoned after a catastrophic earthquake devastated the area in 1968.</span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CQbEoqpsUP8/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="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;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CQbEoqpsUP8/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Sambuca di Sicilia (@sambucadisicilia)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The homes will be going to auction at a starting price of two euros and will be sold to the highest bidder.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Most of the homes are in need of repairs, while others are still filled with forgotten items and broken furniture.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Any who are interested in partaking can complete and submit an application - available from the </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.comune.sambucadisicilia.ag.it/Case%20a%202%20Euro/Index.htm" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">town’s website</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> - until November 5, with the public auction likely to take place several weeks later.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In 2019, the homes sold for prices ranging from one euro to </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">€</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">25,000 (approximately $40,000 NZD).</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">However, most went for somewhere between </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">€5000 and €10,000 (NZD $8000 to $16,000).</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: irusya_busya / Instagram</span></em></p>

International Travel

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The last surviving village is a portal to the past

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Nestled across three acres of land in north-eastern Singapore lies Kampong Lorong Buangkok, Singapore’s last surviving village where fragments of the 60s are still kicking on.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Unlike Singapore’s towering skyscrapers and urban sprawl, the squat bungalows of the village remain as a snapshot of how the city used to look.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">kampong</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> - meaning “village” in Milay - is made up of about 25 wooden, single-storey dwellings with tin roofs scattered around a </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">suaru</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> (small mosque).</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Native flora that has since disappeared from the city - such as the </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">ketapang</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">, a native coastal tree - grow freely around the kampong.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Though Singapore is now known for its soaring skyline and iconic landmarks like the Marina Bay Sands towers or colourful Gardens by the Bay, up until the 1970s kampongs were found everywhere, with researchers from the National University of Singapore estimating there were as many as 220 found on the island.</span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CF7WSk1p5to/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="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;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CF7WSk1p5to/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by William Ong/Singapore (@ongwill)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Now, a few still exist on surrounding islands, but Lorong Buangkok is the last on the mainland.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">As Singapore underwent industrialisation, hundreds of traditional villages were bulldozed to make way for high-rise flats and skyscrapers.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Lorong Buangkok escaped the fate of many other kampongs partly as the area surrounding it was less desirable for development than elsewhere in Singapore.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The other reason is Sng Mui Hong, who has lived nearly her whole life in the village and has a resolute commitment to preserve the sole surviving kampong.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Since the end of Singapore’s lockdown, local guide Kyanta Yap has noticed growing interest in Luong Buangkok.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“It’s not that surprising since no-one can travel, and this is a unique local tourist spot,” he said. “There are also many who visit on their own; the general public, bikers, joggers and even groups organised on Meetup.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Though the Singapore government has attempted to redevelop the area in the past, an uproar of objections have seen the government grow to appreciate the rural relics and culture the village represents.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“When the time comes for us to finalise our plans for the entire area, the government should work closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure developments are carried out in a holistic and coherent way,” Desmond Lee, the Minister for National Development, has said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“This must involve deep engagement with the kampong families living there at that time, to understand and consider their needs and interests.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Nassim, one of the kampong’s residents, said: “It’s good the government now sees the importance of our kampong.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“You need to leave something behind that reminds our young of how this country came about. We came from these humble huts.”</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image credit: Grps / Wikipedia</span></em></p>

International Travel

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Lost Italian village emerges after decades under water

<p>A "lost" village has emerged from an Italian lake after 71 years under water.</p> <p>Curon is a village in north Italy that was purposefully drowned in 1950 to become a reservoir for a hydro-electric plant.</p> <p>The reservoir is known as Lake Resia and usually the only sign of the 163 lost homes beneath it is a 14th-Century church tower that protrudes above the surface.</p> <p>Temporary draining at the lake has revealed the former alpine village, which was flooded despite protests from residents.</p> <p>It was flooded when a dam was built to merge two natural lakes and create the local hydro-electric plant.</p> <p>Lake Resia quickly became a tourist attraction due to the scary abandoned church tower sticking up in the middle.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CO9-7DYpRYx/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="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;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CO9-7DYpRYx/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Luisa A. 🇮🇹 (@luisa2506)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Around 1000 people were displaced when the village was purposefully flooded in 1950.</p> <p>Around 400 of those created a new village close by while the rest are said to have moved away.</p> <p>The past has been brought to life once again as repairs at the site have revealed quite eerie remains.</p> <p>Tourists and locals have been able to walk over the site and that’s resulted in some cool photography.</p> <p>Some great examples can be seen on Instagram account luisa2506 which shows some spooky buildings and rubble.</p> <p>The Instagram belongs to a local called Luisa Azzolini who has also been tweeting the amazing images.</p>

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