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JAPAN

Plane Catches Fire At Tokyo International Airport..

Japan had a rough start for 2024.

1. On Monday, powerful earthquakes rocked Japan, leaving a devastating toll with at least 48 people dead. Fires and landslides damaged thousands of buildings across the affected areas.

2. Then, on Tuesday around 6pm local time, a Japan Airlines flight collided with a Japanese coastguard plane heading to Niigata Airport for aid delivery.

The passenger plane landed in flames at Tokyo's Haneda Airport. The situation is critical, with rescue efforts underway amidst this unfortunate series of events. In a tragic turn, 5 out of 6 personnel on the coastguard plane lost their lives during the collision.

The Good Part - However, was that 379 people aboard the Japan Airlines jet managed to evacuate safely, a testament to the skill and professionalism of the airline staff.

This heartbreaking incident underscores the critical importance of aviation safety and serves as a poignant reminder to appreciate the dedication of those ensuring our protection in the skies.

Is it safe traveling to Japan ?

• The UK Foreign Office is giving a heads up about possible aftershocks following recent earthquakes. Right now, transport links are a bit haywire.

• If you find yourself in the affected zones, the smart move is to stick to local authorities' instructions. Keep tabs on NHK World news, the Japan Meteorological Agency, and the Japan National Tourism Agency for the freshest updates.

✦ Now what should you do if an earthquake hits?

• Shield your head with a bag or any available hard object, that’s what the National Tourism Agency recommends you.

• If within a hotel or accommodation, seek refuge under a durable table.

• Alternatively, opt for an open space or position yourself near a sturdy pillar to minimize exposure to falling objects.

Once the tremor subsides, identify the nearest exit and adhere to instructions provided by staff members.

Refrain from utilizing elevators and, if inside one during the earthquake, press all floor buttons and exit when it is deemed safe to do so. Prioritize caution and follow safety protocols diligently.

✦ And if a tsunami warning is issued..

Don't take it lightly. If it's just an advisory, waves up to a meter are possible. Stay clear of the ocean, rivers, and waterfronts. Head back to your pad and keep an eye out for updates.

Now, when it's a full-blown tsunami warning, we're talking waves up to 3 meters high. A major warning? 5-10-meter waves, hitting repeatedly. Keep tabs on what folks around you are doing and make a beeline for higher ground or a tsunami shelter. Your safety comes first. Stay alert and stay safe! Keep Others Updated.

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THE TOP STORIES
Happening
Your Weekly Travel Roundup about the best of travels

Updates

1. Soon, you'll stroll through UK airports without fumbling for that passport. The United Kingdom’s Border Force Agency is shaking things up by ditching passports for facial recognition, - just smile & wave.

2. Most important travel advisories were announced in Dec. for Nepal, Afghanistan, Lebanon, Yemen, Uganda, Brunei, Guinea.

3. Expect Travel Strikes During 2-3 weeks of jan in across Europe - Spain, UK, France, Switzerland, full details inside..

Adventures & Experiences

👫 COOLEST HOODS - Laureles in Medellín, Colombia has snagged the title of the coolest neighborhood globally! Time Out spilled the beans on its annual list, and Laureles took the crown for its happening nightlife on La 70 and its laidback charm. With parks, yoga studios, and coffee shops, it's got that perfect blend of tranquility and Colombian tradition. This cool revelation comes from Time Out's latest list, where they surveyed 12,000 people, then had experts and city editors narrow it down based on community vibes, green spaces, and vibrant street life. Check out the full list; you might just find your next cool getaway! And hey, half of the top 10 coolest hoods are right in Europe.

🔓TRAPPED CAVE OPENS - Remember the gripping news about the 12 young footballers and their coach trapped in the Chiang Rai cave system for 17 days? Well, now you can explore the very cave where the dramatic rescue of the Wild Boars football team took place. The tours, running two rounds a day during summer and winter seasons, offer a 2.5-hour adventure into chambers 2 and 3. For 950 baht, Thai tourists can join, while international visitors pay 1,500 baht (excluding equipment and insurance). Don't miss the chance to visit Chamber 1, the command center during the rescue operation, with free entry to witness its crucial role in the daring mission led by former Chiang Rai governor Narongsak Osotthanakorn and the Thai Navy Seals. Considering the expected high interest, it's wise to pre-book this extraordinary journey.
Chiang Rai Cave Exploration, Time - 2.5 hours
950 baht ($27) for locals & 1,500 baht ($43). Pre-booking recommended.
Get more details in the linked article!

😎 VENICE WHO ? - Move over, Venice – Chester in England just snagged the crown for the world's prettiest city, and it's not just a Brit's biased opinion! Mathematicians took to Google Street View like virtual tourists on a sightseeing spree, armed with the "golden ratio" yardstick. These images show - Chester's got it all – a cathedral that's seen more years than your grandma's recipe book, a Roman amphitheatre that probably hosted gladiator bake-offs, and let's not forget the oldest racecourse in the UK. With a jaw-dropping 83.7% adherence to the golden ratio, Chester's architectural beauty is basically a mathematical masterpiece. Sorry, Venice, looks like the canal competition just got a bit more tilted!

Deals

• Earn 2X Bonus Points For IHG One Rewards (only for jan)

• For New Years - Hilton Honors bonus points in 2024

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📰 Read

• Safest Destinations In The Carribean ?

👁️‍🗨️ Watch

 • New Year Around The Globe

😲 React

 • Why do you have to open your window blind for takeoff? Airline safety rules explained

MY TRAVEL BUCKETLIST
Forest In The City

📍 Gardens By The Bay, 🇸🇬 Singapore
Over 43,000 Excellent Tripadvisor Reviews

Picture this: Picture this: a vast 101-hectare wonderland right in the heart of Singapore, where futuristic Supertrees stretch toward the sky, illuminating the landscape in a breathtaking display. A home to a diverse collection of over 1.5 million plants that hail from every continent, while the Cloud Forest houses the world's tallest indoor waterfall. A place you don’t want to miss, especially when it comes alive at night..

Stroll Through the Supertree Grove: Lose yourself in the futuristic charm of the Supertree Grove. These towering structures are not just for show – they come alive with a dazzling light show in the evening.

Visit the Flower Dome: Step into a world of perpetual spring. The Flower Dome's got flowers from all over the globe. It's a floral paradise that changes with the seasons, so there's always something new to see.

Cloud Forest Adventure: Get ready for a misty escapade in the Cloud Forest. Explore lush greenery, a surreal waterfall, and elevated walkways that make you feel like you're on top of the world.

OCBC Skyway Thrills: For a bird's-eye view, take a stroll along the OCBC Skyway. Suspended high above, it offers panoramic views of the Gardens and the city skyline – a perfect spot for that Instagram-worthy shot.

Light Show Extravaganza at OCBC Skyway: When the sun sets, head to the OCBC Skyway for a dazzling light show amidst the Supertrees. It's like nature's version of a futuristic disco – you can't miss it.

Satay by the Bay: Refuel your energy at Satay by the Bay, a food haven offering a variety of local and international delights. Satay skewers under the twinkling Supertrees? Yes, please!

Children's Garden Water Play: If you've got little ones, the Children's Garden is a must. Let them loose in the water play area while you kick back and enjoy some parental downtime.

Here are 2 other destinations that complement your , experience:

• Marina Bay Sands: Just a stone's throw away from Gardens by the Bay, the iconic Marina Bay Sands offers a luxurious counterpart to your nature-filled escapade. Take a dip in the infinity pool perched atop the hotel's skyscrapers, offering a stunning panoramic view of the city skyline.

• Singapore Flyer: For a unique perspective of Singapore's cityscape, head to the Singapore Flyer, one of the world's largest observation wheels. Located nearby, it provides a captivating 360-degree view, especially enchanting during the evening when the city lights come to life.

Your itinerary could look something like this:

✔️ Day 1-3

Day 1: Gardens by the Bay Delight
- Morning at Supertree Grove
- Afternoon in Flower Dome
- Evening at OCBC Skyway light show

Day 2: Marina Bay Sands Marvel
- Morning at Infinity Pool
- Afternoon shopping at The Shoppes
- Sunset at SkyPark

Day 3: Singapore Flyer and Farewell
- Morning spin on Singapore Flyer
- Afternoon exploring nearby Gardens by the Bay
- Evening at Satay by the Bay

Recent Review - It's a great way to explore the beauty of Singapore's nature and make lasting memories. With interactive exhibits, educational Discovery Gardens, and interactive play areas, it's perfect for a family outing or business trip.

This itinerary is a general guide, you’re free to choose activities based on your preferences, travel pace, and local conditions. Be sure to check weather conditions & consult with local guides for the most accurate information.

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EASE MY TRAVELS
Avoiding the jetlag..

Water, Not Whiskey: Sure, that exotic cocktail might be winking at you from the menu, consider water your new best friend. Stay hydrated and save the celebratory beverages for when your circadian rhythm isn't throwing a tantrum.

Nap Strategically, Not Sloppily: Napping is an art form. Quick power naps are your passport to avoiding the walking-dead look. Avoid the marathon siestas that leave you more disoriented than a cat in a room full of laser pointers.

Eat Local, Not Loco: Embrace local cuisine, but don't turn your dining experience into a culinary rollercoaster. Your stomach might be an adventurous thrill-seeker, but it doesn't appreciate surprises when adjusting to a new time zone.

Sweat the Jet Lag Away: Exercise is your secret weapon. Break a sweat and show jet lag that you're not one to succumb to its drowsy charms. Bonus points if you manage to look glamorous while doing jumping jacks in an airport lounge.

TRAVEL & BEYOND
Staying Connected with the world beyond your travels..

1. Epstein List Reveals High Profile People Like Bill Clinton, Donald Trump, Michael Jackson & More

2. Warning - Bomb Kills Over 100 Iran Video Reveals

3. Man Attacks Judge During His Sentencing

GUESS THE PLACE

This Place has the Largest botanical Collection In The World

- O - - - N

Last week’s answer to:
This Place Has The Largest Museum In The World - France

• The Louvre, in France is the largest museum on Earth, not only in size (73,000 sq. mtr.) but also by reputation as it holds works from world-famous Venus de Milo and the Mona Lisa.

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