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Forming new habits can take longer than you think. Here are 8 tips to help you stick with them

<div class="theconversation-article-body"> If you’ve ever tried to build a new habit – whether that’s exercising more, eating healthier, or going to bed earlier – you may have heard the popular claim that it only takes 21 days to form a habit. It’s a neat idea. Short, encouraging and full of promise. But there’s just one problem: it’s not true. The 21-day myth can be traced back to <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0671700758/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0671700758&linkCode=as2&tag=jamesclear-20&linkId=6DQ32IRAG3LU4PKA">Maxwell Maltz</a>, a plastic surgeon in the 1960s, who observed it took about three weeks for his patients to adjust to physical changes. This idea was later picked up and repeated in self-help books, eventually becoming accepted wisdom. But as psychologists and behavioural scientists have since discovered, habit formation is <a href="https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/how-long-does-it-really-take-to-form-a-habit/">much more complex</a>. <h2>How long does it really take?</h2> A <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ejsp.674">2010 study</a> followed volunteers trying to build simple routines – such as drinking water after breakfast or eating a daily piece of fruit – and found it took a median of 66 days for the behaviour to become automatic. We recently <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9032/12/23/2488">reviewed several studies</a> looking at how long it took people to form health-related habits. We found, on average, it took around two to five months. Specifically, the studies that measured time to reach automaticity (when a behaviour becomes second nature) found that habit formation took between 59 and 154 days. Some people developed a habit in as few as four days. Others took nearly a year. This wide range highlights that habit formation isn’t one-size-fits-all. It depends on what the behaviour is, how often it’s repeated, how complex it is, and who’s doing it. <h2>What determines whether a habit will stick?</h2> Habit strength plays a key role in consistency. A <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.626750/full">2021 systematic review</a> focused on physical activity and found the stronger the habit (meaning the more automatic and less effortful the behaviour felt) the more likely people were to exercise regularly. It’s not entirely surprising that easy, <a href="https://bjgp.org/content/62/605/664">low-effort behaviours</a> such as drinking water or taking a daily vitamin tend to form faster than complex ones like training for a marathon. But whatever the habit, <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s44159-024-00305-0">research shows</a> sticking to it is not just about boosting motivation or willpower. Interventions that actively support habit formation – through repetition, cues and structure – are much more effective for creating lasting change. For example, programs that encourage people to schedule regular exercise at the same time each day, or apps that send reminders to drink water after every meal, help build habits by making the behaviour easier to repeat and harder to forget. Our <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9032/12/23/2488">research</a>, which drew on data from more than 2,600 people, showed habit-building interventions can make a real difference across a range of behaviours – from flossing and healthy eating to regular exercise. But what stood out most was that even small, everyday actions can grow into powerful routines, when repeated consistently. It’s not about overhauling your life overnight, but about steadily reinforcing behaviours until they become second nature. <h2>8 tips for building lasting habits</h2> If you’re looking to build a new habit, here are some science-backed tips to help them stick: <ol> <li> Give it time. Aim for consistency over <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9032/12/23/2488">60 days</a>. It’s not about perfection – missing a day won’t reset the clock. </li> <li> <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3505409/">Make it easy</a>. Start small. Choose a behaviour you can realistically repeat daily. </li> <li> Attach your new habit <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9032/12/23/2488">to an existing routine</a>. That is, make the new habit easier to remember by linking it to something you already do – such as flossing right before you brush your teeth. </li> <li> <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/0144929X.2020.1801840">Track your progress</a>. Use a calendar or app to tick off each successful day. </li> <li> Build in <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2212267215011181?casa_token=-VKsr03fXOUAAAAA:pKV0oAB5VVuj8RcPAW5T7prjo3efSVpi6P6TXFoeTLHBX_vFK0ttF6tFM9-8Fp6o45XPu_lcij5d">rewards</a>, for example making a special coffee after a morning walk or watching an episode of your favourite show after a week of consistent workouts. Positive emotions help habits stick, so celebrate small wins. </li> <li> Morning is best. Habits practised <a href="https://psycnet.apa.org/doiLanding?doi=10.1037%2Fhea0000510">in the morning</a> tend to form more reliably than those attempted at night. This may be because people typically have more motivation and fewer distractions earlier in the day, making it easier to stick to new routines before daily demands build up. </li> <li> Personal choice boosts success. People are more likely to stick with habits <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2020.00560/full">they choose themselves</a>. </li> <li> <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/ejsp.674">Repetition</a> in a stable context is key. Performing the same behaviour in the same situation (such as walking right after lunch each day) increases the chances it will become automatic. </li> </ol> <h2>Why the 21-day myth matters</h2> Believing habits form in 21 days sets many people up to fail. When change doesn’t “click” within three weeks, it’s easy to feel like you’re doing something wrong. This can lead to frustration, guilt and giving up entirely. By contrast, understanding the real timeline can help you stay motivated when things feel slow. Evidence shows habit formation usually takes at least two months, and sometimes longer. But it also shows change is possible. Our <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9032/12/23/2488">research</a> and <a href="https://bjgp.org/content/62/605/664">other evidence</a> confirm that repeated, intentional actions in stable contexts really do become automatic. Over time, new behaviours can feel effortless and deeply ingrained. So whether you’re trying to move more, eat better, or improve your sleep, the key isn’t speed – it’s consistency. Stick with it. With time, the habit will stick with you.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/255118/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> By <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/ben-singh-1297213">Ben Singh</a>, Research Fellow, Allied Health & Human Performance, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-south-australia-1180">University of South Australia</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/ashleigh-e-smith-201327">Ashleigh E. Smith</a>, Associate Professor, Healthy Ageing, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-south-australia-1180">University of South Australia</a> This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/forming-new-habits-can-take-longer-than-you-think-here-are-8-tips-to-help-you-stick-with-them-255118">original article</a>. Image: Shuttertock </div>

Mind

Tragedy on first cruise: Aussie couple’s dream trip ends in heartbreak

What began as a dream getaway for Aussie couple Glenn and Beverley Stein has ended in devastating tragedy, after Glenn, 74, died suddenly during their very first cruise. Described as "humble and hardworking", the couple had never been overseas or on a cruise before. Their four-day voyage from Brisbane to Airlie Beach, a generous gift from their son after a lucky windfall, was meant to be a long-overdue escape for the pair, who had spent more than 50 years side by side. "They had never been on a cruise before, never even been overseas," daughter-in-law Sarah <a href="https://au.news.yahoo.com/carnival-cruise-passengers-8500-blow-after-on-board-tragedy-they-didnt-realise-033649566.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">shared with Yahoo News</a>. "One of their sons won some money so he thought it might be nice to buy them a cruise." According to Sarah, the couple were thoroughly enjoying their time onboard. But just a few days into the trip, Glenn began to feel unwell, suspecting it was merely “a bit of food poisoning”. True to their no-fuss nature, the Steins tried not to worry and went to bed, assuming he would feel better by morning. Tragically, Beverley awoke the next day to find Glenn unconscious. In shock, she raised the alarm with the ship’s housekeeping staff, who immediately called the onboard medical team. “The staff were amazing. We’ve got a 43-page report detailing all the care they gave him," Sarah said, commending the cruise medical team for their efforts and support during the ordeal. Glenn’s condition rapidly deteriorated. Doctors soon discovered he was suffering from a life-threatening strangulated hernia, requiring emergency surgery. As they awaited an airlift to Bundaberg Hospital, the crew urged Beverley to speak with her husband and prepare for the worst. Even aboard the emergency helicopter, Glenn’s health continued to fail. Once at the hospital, paramedics warned the couple’s children, already en route, to call in immediately. “They managed to speak to Glenn, which was really nice,” Sarah said. Heartbreakingly, just minutes later, when Sarah and her husband tried to call, they were told Glenn had passed away. "He had literally just passed away as soon as they got off the phone." Adding to the family's anguish, they soon discovered that because Glenn and Beverley had unknowingly crossed into international waters, and hadn't purchased travel insurance, Beverley was left facing an $8,500 medical bill. “This was their first cruise; they didn’t realise it was actually out of Australian waters,” Sarah explained, calling the experience a “cautionary tale” for other travellers. While understanding of the fees, the family is now hoping the cruise company might show some compassion and reduce the amount. Loved ones have <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-bev-after-the-sudden-loss-of-her-beloved-husband-glenn?cdn-cache=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">launched a GoFundMe</a> to help cover the medical costs and funeral expenses. "Bev is not only grieving the loss of her life partner but is now also facing overwhelming financial pressure," the family wrote. "Any contribution, no matter how small, will go directly toward covering the significant costs associated with Glenn’s passing and supporting Bev as she begins to navigate life without him." Despite their grief, the family has found bittersweet moments of humour in the aftermath. “It’s really funny,” Sarah recalled, “his daughter mentioned, ‘Dad always said he never wanted a fuss and just wanted to go quietly,’ and it’s ended up being a helicopter out and on the news – so he couldn’t have been more dramatic." As they rally around Beverley, the Steins’ loved ones hope their story will serve as a reminder of the importance of travel insurance — and of cherishing every moment with the ones you love. Images: GoFundMe

Cruising

Why older couples love short cruises for a quick romantic getaway

Long holidays are great, but they are not always practical, especially when you just want a quick break together. They can be expensive, require a lot of planning and sometimes feel more tiring than relaxing. A <a href="https://www.carnival.com.au/short-cruises" target="_blank" rel="noopener">smooth, short cruise</a> is the perfect balance for older couples. There’s just enough time to unwind, visit new places and enjoy amazing food and entertainment, all without the stress of organising every detail. With options from Carnival, Australia’s leading cruise line, a quick and relaxing romantic getaway is easier than ever. Everything is taken care of, so you can simply step on board and make the most of your time together. To show you what makes them special, here’s why short cruises have become a favourite getaway for couples looking to relax and reconnect. Skip the stress and start your holiday sooner Planning a holiday can sometimes feel like more trouble than it’s worth. Long flights, busy airports and endless logistics take time and effort, which can make a romantic getaway feel stressful before it even begins. But taking a break doesn’t have to be complicated. A Carnival <a href="https://www.carnival.com.au/short-cruises/sydney" target="_blank" rel="noopener">short cruise from Sydney</a> or Brisbane is an easy way to escape for a few days without the stress of flights or long drives. Enjoy slow mornings together on a peaceful deck, take in the ocean views or visit a beautiful destination like Tasmania or Moreton Island. Enjoy time together without going far You don’t need to travel far to enjoy a romantic break. A short cruise lets you escape for a few days, soak up the ocean views and spend uninterrupted time together. Set sail from Brisbane or Sydney and choose from a three-day cruise at sea, a four day cruise to Moreton Island or Airlie Beach, or a <a href="https://www.carnival.com.au/short-cruises/5-day" target="_blank" rel="noopener">five-day cruise</a> to Tasmania. Spend quality time with onboard activities <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2025/02/Carnivalimage-1.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /> Finding time to unwind together isn’t always easy, but a Carnival short cruise makes it simple. With plenty of <a href="https://www.carnival.com.au/onboard" target="_blank" rel="noopener">exciting onboard activities</a>, you can do as much or as little as you like. Lounge by the pool, enjoy some quiet time at <a href="https://www.carnival.com.au/onboard/serenity" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> an adults-only retreat</a> or watch a live music performance. You can even play video games or visit the fitness centre together. For total relaxation, book a couples’ treatment at Cloud 9 Spa* and let the stress melt away. In the evening, share new experiences together. Watch a Playlist Productions show, enjoy stand-up comedy at The Punchliner Comedy Club or settle in for a movie under the stars. If you prefer a quieter night, find a cosy spot to take in the ocean views or enjoy a drink with live acoustic music. Share great food at every meal <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2025/02/Carnivalimage-3.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /> Good food is even better when shared, and a Carnival short cruise gives couples plenty of <a href="https://www.carnival.com.au/dining" target="_blank" rel="noopener">dining </a>options to enjoy together. Start the day with a relaxed breakfast and freshly brewed coffee, or grab a quick bite from the main dining room. For a special night, Fahrenheit 555* or Luke’s Bar & Grill* serves perfectly cooked steaks and fresh seafood in a cosy setting. If you’re in the mood for something to eat, the pizzeria has fresh-made pizza, and Bonsai Sushi Express* offers quick, fresh sushi. For something classic, Guy’s Burger Joint serves juicy burgers. With so many choices, every meal is a chance to relax and spend time together. Plan your next romantic getaway A few days away is sometimes all you need to recharge and reconnect. On a short cruise, you can enjoy new experiences, soak up the ocean views and make the most of every moment together without worrying about travel logistics. All the details are sorted, so you can focus on choosing the perfect destination and how long you’d like to relax together. Visit the <a href="https://www.carnival.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Carnival Cruise website</a> to find a short cruise that fits your schedule, and start planning your next romantic getaway today. Images: Supplied *Charges apply This is a sponsored article produced in partnership with Carnival

Cruising

To tip or not to tip? Kyle weighs in on the great debate

In a country where tipping is about as popular as warm beer, Kyle Sandilands has somehow managed to ignite a national debate with his bold approach after revealing his personal tipping policy: doubling the bill. While everyday Australians are grumbling about feeling "under surveillance" by watchful waitstaff, Sandilands has effectively turned the concept of tipping on its head by making it rain on every meal. “Whatever the bill is, I’ll pay that again,” he declared on air, leaving co-host Jackie O and newsreader Brooklyn Ross stunned. The revelation has sparked a flurry of reactions, ranging from admiration to outright panic. Many hospitality workers have suddenly discovered a newfound appreciation for Sandilands, with one Sydney waiter reportedly seen frantically Googling his favourite restaurants in hopes of securing a booking. Meanwhile, local economists are nervously clutching their calculators. "If this catches on, we could see a rapid rise in inflation, an economic boom in hospitality, or Kyle Sandilands accidentally becoming Australia's next Reserve Bank governor," speculated one financial analyst. Not everyone, however, is on board with the tipping craze. Outraged anti-tipping Australians have taken to social media, decrying the practice as "un-Australian" and a gateway to the country becoming “the 51st state of America”. One particularly passionate commenter warned, "This is how it starts! First, it's tipping, then it's calling football ‘soccer’, and next thing you know, we’re driving on the right side of the road!" Despite the uproar, Sandilands seems unfazed. With his unique approach, he may have found a loophole in Australia’s new EFTPOS tipping culture – if everyone else sticks to the modest 5-25% suggested range, he might actually be saving money. “You’re doubling the cost,” Ross pointed out in disbelief. “I’ll save big time,” Sandilands responded, seemingly unconcerned with mathematical realities. As for whether his fellow Australians will follow suit or hold the line against tipping tyranny, only time will tell. One thing’s for sure: if you see Kyle Sandilands dining out, you might want to consider switching tables – and bringing an extra billfold. Images: KIIS FM

Money & Banking

Cruise passenger facing life sentence after onboard discovery

A Brazilian passenger has been charged with drug-related offences after authorities discovered a significant quantity of cocaine hidden in his cruise ship cabin upon docking in Sydney Harbour on Saturday. The Australian Federal Police (AFP) allege that the 48-year-old man had concealed 10kg of cocaine within the ceiling cavity of his room aboard the vessel, which had arrived from Argentina. During a search conducted by Australian Border Force (ABF) officials, officers reportedly uncovered 28 individually wrapped parcels of the substance, which tested positive for cocaine. In addition to the drugs, authorities also discovered "body packing material" hidden in the ceiling cavity and the wardrobe. According to the AFP, such materials are commonly used by drug couriers attempting to smuggle narcotics across international borders and security checkpoints. An examination of the suspect’s mobile phone allegedly revealed further evidence linked to drug trafficking. The AFP subsequently charged the man with one count of importing a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug and one count of possessing a commercial quantity of an unlawfully imported border-controlled drug. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. AFP Detective Superintendent Kristie Cressy highlighted the potential impact of the drug haul, noting that the seized cocaine could have been distributed in 10,000 individual street deals, with an estimated street value of $3 million. “This amount of cocaine could have been sold in the community as 10,000 individual street deals of 1 gram for about $3 million,” Cressy stated. “Drug traffickers are motivated by greed, and they do not care about the harm they cause. These drug deals put pressure on the health system.” The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reports that between 2022 and 2023, there were more than two hospitalisations per day in Australia due to drug-related incidents. ABF Superintendent Matt O’Connor acknowledged the increased risk of drug smuggling during the cruise season but reassured the public of law enforcement's vigilance in tackling such operations. “The cruising season brings with it additional opportunities for criminal syndicates to attempt to smuggle illicit drugs into the country; however, Border Force officers are very attuned to their pivoting tactics,” O’Connor said. “Our ABF officers process and border-clear thousands of passengers and crew members on every international cruise ship which arrives into Sydney and are ready to respond to any threat which may present itself.” The accused is set to appear in court as investigations continue into the broader implications of the smuggling attempt. Images: Australian Federal Police

Travel Trouble

How to prepare for a cyclone, according to an expert

<div class="theconversation-article-body"><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/yetta-gurtner-2337172">Yetta Gurtner</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/james-cook-university-1167">James Cook University</a> Tropical Cyclone Alfred is predicted to make landfall anywhere <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-03-03/tropical-cyclone-alfred-landfall-thursday-live-updates/105002038">between Bundaberg and northern New South Wales</a> this week. The Australian Bureau of Meteorology <a href="http://www.bom.gov.au/cgi-bin/wrap_fwo.pl?IDQ20023.html">has warned</a> it may bring severe hazards and “dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding”. So, how do you prepare for a cyclone – and what do you do if it’s too late to leave? <h2>How to prepare</h2> Your starting point is to consider the risk to yourself and everyone in your household (including pets). Consider ensuring you have: <ul> <li>non-perishable food that everyone in the family will eat (enough for five to seven days)</li> <li>water for drinking and cleaning (three litres per person per day)</li> <li>medication (two weeks worth)</li> <li>toiletries and first aid kit</li> <li>pet food/supplies</li> <li>torches</li> <li>batteries</li> <li>a back up battery for your phone</li> <li>baby formula and nappies if needed</li> <li>protective clothing and closed-in shoes</li> <li>cash in small denominations</li> <li>valuable documents such as passports, title deeds, ID, insurance details, photos (these can be photographed or packed in weather-proof container or envelope)</li> <li>kids’ books, card games, board games, headphones</li> <li>anything else you may need or really value (and isn’t too heavy to carry).</li> </ul> Make sure you have a grab-and-go kit that you can carry by yourself if authorities suddenly tell you to evacuate immediately. Conventional wisdom used to be to prepare enough supplies for three days of disruption. Now, experts recommend having enough for five to seven days. After the initial disaster there may be road blockages or supply chain problems. Ensure you have enough medication for a week or two, because pharmacies may take days or weeks to re-open. And remember that many medications, such as insulin, need to be refrigerated, so consider how you’d keep them cool if the power went out. Fill containers with water and stick them in your freezer now; they can keep your freezer cool if you lose power. They can also become drinking water in future. Talk to your neighbours. Do they have a generator or a camping fridge you can use? This is a great opportunity to get to know your community and pool your resources. Ask yourself if you have friends with whom you or a pet can stay. One of the main reasons people don’t evacuate is because they can’t bring their pets (not all evacuation shelters allow them, so check in advance). Consider what you can do now to prepare your house. One of the most common call-outs the SES receives is about blocked drains and gutters, so check if there’s time to clean your gutters now. You won’t be able to do it during the storm. <h2>Stay informed – and don’t rely on hearsay</h2> Have a plan for getting truthful information before, during and after the cyclone. Rely on the information provided by official sources, as they will tell you when it’s too late to evacuate or when it’s safe to come out. This is highly context-specific and will depend on where you are located. Get advice where possible from your local council’s <a href="https://www.qld.gov.au/community/disasters-emergencies/disasters/resources-translations/local-government-disaster-dashboards">disaster dashboard</a> (most councils have one). It should provide information such as where to get sandbags, which roads are closed (which can affect your evacuation plan) and evacuation centre openings and locations. Anyone who monitors social media will see how many amateur meteorologists and maps are out there, but these are often not the best source. Always rely on official sources rather than hearsay, trending footage or amateur “experts”. Always have an battery-operated AM-FM radio. If power goes out, relying on your phone to track information will drain your phone battery very quickly. You may be able to charge it via your car or laptop, but telecommunications networks may not be active. So having a battery-operated radio on hand – and plenty of batteries – is crucial. <h2>What if the cyclone hits while you’re at home?</h2> If it’s too late to evacuate, have a plan for sheltering in place. Find the smallest room in your house with the least windows (which can shatter in a storm). This is often the bathroom, but it could be under the stairs. It is usually on the lowest level of the house. Bring your food, water, radio, blankets and supplies there. Avoid walking around the house during the cyclone to fetch things; there could be glass on the floor or debris flying around. It’s hard to predict how long you will need to shelter there, but it’s important not to leave until official sources say it is safe to do so. Cyclones come in stages. They arrive from one direction, then comes an eerie calm as the “eye of the storm” passes over. Next, the other half of the cyclone arrives. Don’t go outside during the eye of the storm, because it’s not over. Outside the house, there may be powerlines down, broken glass and other hazards. Don’t venture out until you get official clearance from the disaster dashboard or official sources on the radio saying it is safe. For <a href="https://www.ses.qld.gov.au/ses-assistance">non-life threatening emergencies</a> – such as a tree on your roof, or water running through your house – call the SES on 132 500 or register on the <a href="https://apps.apple.com/au/app/ses-assistance-qld/id704964892">SES Assistance app</a> (if you’re in Queensland). They will not come during the event itself but will come later. If it’s a life threatening emergency, always call triple 0. <h2>After the storm</h2> After the storm, consider how to make your house more cyclone-ready in future. Many houses in North Queensland are designed for cyclone zones, but not as many further south will be. Climate change means cyclones are likely to be more severe in future. These days, be cyclone-ready 365 days a year.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/251251/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/yetta-gurtner-2337172">Yetta Gurtner</a>, Adjunct senior lecturer, Centre for Disaster Studies, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/james-cook-university-1167">James Cook University</a> Image credits: SBS News This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/how-to-prepare-for-a-cyclone-according-to-an-expert-251251">original article</a>. </div>

Travel Tips

Rock star's fiancée dies after falling overboard on cruise

The fiancée of famous rockstar Taime Downe has died after falling overboard on an 80s music-themed cruise. The family of Kimberly Burch announced her death in a emotional post on Facebook, writing, "It is with broken hearts that we share the sad news that Kimberly Burch has passed away." "She was a beloved Daughter, Sister, Sister-in-law and Aunt. She will be greatly missed by all that knew and loved her." "We ask for prayers during this time for our family as we try to wrap our minds around this heartbreaking tragedy. We love and miss you Kimberly Burch!!" Burch, who worked as a realtor, joined the cruise on Sunday, as her partner's band Faster Pussycat was booked as one of the musical acts on board the seven-day cruise. By Monday, Burch had gone overboard roughly 30kms from the Bahamas and was presumed dead, with her family sharing their message confirming her death on social media on Tuesday. Her body remains missing. The couple shared a loved-up photo of them on the cruise less than 24 hours before her untimely death. Downe's band Faster Pussycat, an '80s hard rock and glam metal group known for their hits including House Of Pain, had two performances scheduled over the cruise – one on Sunday and another for Tuesday night. The cruise, billed as an ideal trip for lovers of '80s music, is set to return to port on Sunday March 9th. In a statement to <a title="Variety" href="https://variety.com/2025/music/news/kimberly-burch-dies-80s-cruise-faster-pussycat-1236327187/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Variety</a>, Royal Caribbean said: "Our crew immediately launched a search and rescue effort, is working with local authorities, and we are providing support and assistance to the guest's family during this difficult time." "To respect the privacy of our guest's family, we have no additional details to share." Image credits: Instagram

Cruising

Young couple sold almost everything to live on a cruise ship

Two savvy US school teachers Monica Brzoska, 32, and Jorrell Conley, 36, have sold almost all of their possessions to live at sea. The couple fell in love with cruising after travelling to Mexico, Belize and Grand Cayman almost a decade ago. In 2023, after Monica's father fell ill, she was inspired to live the life she had always wanted. "Don’t wait for retirement to follow your dreams. Do it now," her mother had told her. That's when she and her husband made the life-changing decision. “Instead of coming back, why not keep booking consecutive cruises for as long as we could afford to?” Monica told The Sun. “It sounds mad, but the numbers made sense. Accommodation, food and entertainment would be included – we’d only need spending money. “And because we’d been on so many Carnival cruises, we’d earned access to some amazing offers. “If we chose the cheapest cabins, our savings from the pandemic would allow us to book eight months of cruising for $16,000 – some trips paid for in full, others with deposits. “We could then use the rent from our three-bedroom house in Memphis to make extra payments as needed. Many cruises start and end in the same ports, so we knew we’d be able to disembark and easily board our next ship, or otherwise fly to the port.” <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-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DEQkivEJ0DS/?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/DEQkivEJ0DS/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Monica Brzoska (@life_by_any_means)</a> </div> </blockquote> The pair quit their jobs, sold most of their possessions and rented out their three-bedroom home in Memphis, and have been cruising for almost two years now. Since making the move, the couple have completed 36 consecutive cruises and visited almost 50 countries. “I instantly felt free,” she said. “People are amazed when they hear we live on ships, and I’m always happy to share the tricks we’ve learned to save money. We’ve won excursion tickets, jewellery and spa treatments in onboard raffles, while on land, we do our own tours, using local transport to explore," she said. However, she admitted that there are a few challenges, including missing family, but regardless "it really is a dream come true". Image: Instagram

Retirement Life

"Dropping like flies": Cruise passengers ravaged by severe virus

A dream holiday has turned into a floating nightmare for passengers onboard a P&O Cruise after the vessel was ravaged with a severe strain of novovirus. The luxury ship, Iona, was sailing through Northern Europe when the virus struck, affecting over 5000 guests and nearly 2000 staff onboard. Sky News UK reported that the onslaught of the virus has caused hundreds of passengers to fall ill with the company releasing statements providing updates as the situation grows worse aboard the ship. The ship, which is currently located off shore near Belgium, is continuing on with the itinerary as planned, with staff attempting to isolate the affected passengers and restrict their movements both aboard the ship and land-based stopovers. “People were throwing up in restaurants, on decks, outside cabins,” one of the passengers told Sky News. “A large number of guests and staff are experiencing the virus symptoms. They're dropping like flies." Norovirus is the most common cause of gastroenteritis and causes diarrhoea, vomiting, and severe stomach pain. The symptoms usually develop 12 to 48 hours after being exposed and can take three days for a person to fully flush the virus from their system. P&O Cruises confirmed that some guests have reported symptoms of gastrointestinal illness but refused to provide an update on the health of cruise staffers. “P&O Cruises works with global, national and regional public health authorities on approved and proven protocols across our ships in order to protect the health and wellbeing of all on board,” a P&O spokesperson said. Image credits: Shutterstock

Travel Trouble

Man whose partner lost $1.6 BILLION at a rubbish tip now wants to buy the entire dump

In what can only be described as the most expensive game of "Where’s Wally?" ever attempted, James Howells, 39, is continuing his decade-long battle to recover a hard drive that contains 8,000 bitcoins – now worth a staggering $1.6 billion AUD – from a landfill site in Newport on the southwest coast of Wales. The saga began in 2013 when Howells’ partner, in a move that will forever be known as the most expensive spring cleaning mishap of all time, accidentally tossed out the hard drive. Since then, Howells has been on a mission to reclaim his digital treasure from what is now essentially a very smelly version of Fort Knox. However, Newport City Council has repeatedly refused his requests to excavate the site, citing environmental concerns and, possibly, an extreme reluctance to deal with a man on a personal mission to unearth a high-tech pirate's chest. A recent legal bid to force the council’s hand was swiftly dismissed by the UK High Court, with the judge describing Howells’ plight as "akin to looking for a needle in a haystack" – though in this case, the haystack is 1.4 million tonnes of garbage, and the needle is worth more than most small countries’ GDP. But Howells refuses to be deterred. His latest plan? If he can’t dig through the dump, he’ll just buy it. Yes, the father-of-three is now looking to purchase the landfill site outright, a bold strategy that has left both financial analysts and waste management professionals scratching their heads. “I have discussed this option recently with investment partners, and it is very much on the table,” he told the BBC. This development adds a fascinating twist to the drama, as parts of the landfill are slated to be turned into a solar farm in the coming years. In what might be the most ironic plot twist in financial history, the very place where Howells’ fortune lies buried could soon be used to power the homes of Newport – while he continues to live in metaphorical darkness. “If they had just worked with me, Newport could have looked like Las Vegas or Dubai,” Howells lamented, apparently envisioning a city built on the back of Bitcoin-funded extravagance rather than well-placed street lamps and reliable waste collection. Despite his enthusiasm, Newport City Council remains unswayed. “Excavation is not possible under our environmental permit,” a council spokesman reiterated, likely while rolling his eyes for the hundredth time. “Mr Howells’s claim has no merit, and the council is vigorously resisting it.” Undeterred, Howells insists he has a team of AI experts ready to streamline the search, making the job “as easy as possible”. As things stand, it appears that for now, Newport’s garbage will remain just that – garbage. But if one thing is certain, it’s that Howells is not giving up anytime soon. Whether his future includes billions in Bitcoin riches or simply a very expensive pile of rubbish remains to be seen. Image: Supplied

Money & Banking

What are sleep retreats? A sleep scientist explains the latest wellness trend

<div class="theconversation-article-body"><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/jason-ellis-280919">Jason Ellis</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/northumbria-university-newcastle-821">Northumbria University, Newcastle</a> Considering the effect of poor sleep on the individual as well as on <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5627640/">society and the economy</a>, it is hardly surprising sleep has become an intense area of research focus in recent years. Most recently we have seen an <a href="https://www.voguebusiness.com/story/beauty/the-beauty-consumer-trends-set-to-define-2025">increase</a> in the <a href="https://www.aspiretravelclub.co.uk/insight/in-focus-the-rise-of-sleep-retreats">offering of and appetite for</a> so-called <a href="https://www.countryandtownhouse.com/style/health-and-beauty/sleep-retreats/">sleep retreats</a>. But what are sleep retreats and are they helpful? As with any specialised retreat, there is no set formula for what a sleep retreat should focus on. As such, the range of what is available is incredibly variable, from retreats that just focus on a sleep-friendly environment (a cool, dark, quiet and comfortable bedroom in a luxurious location) to ones specifically aimed at managing a specific sleep disorder, using evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia. There are even ones that provide, among other things, a regimen of vitamins and minerals delivered intravenously. Most, however, fall somewhere between focusing on meditation, exercise and relaxation. Although there is good evidence that exercise, at the right intensity and duration, can be <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Helen-Driver-3/publication/10948102_Exercise_and_sleep/links/5f578ffca6fdcc9879d67d41/Exercise-and-sleep.pdf">beneficial for sleep</a>, it is unlikely that a lack of exercise alone causes poor sleep. Similarly, there is some, albeit poor quality, evidence that <a href="https://rsdjournal.org/index.php/rsd/article/view/40186">meditation and relaxation improve sleep quality</a>. As such, it is unlikely that these treatments alone will fix a sleep problem. The main challenge is that sleep, as with diet or exercise, is just an overarching term for a complex behaviour, one that is influenced and can influence almost every area of a person’s life. For example, I am <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12011-022-03162-1">hearing a lot</a> about supplementing with magnesium to aid sleep, but this is only likely to be beneficial if you are <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/B9780124201682000314">deficient in the first place</a>. <h2>What to consider before you splash the cash</h2> So, should we approach the sleep retreat with caution? Not necessarily, it is more a case of doing your homework. First, who does the sleep retreat cater for, and what do you hope to get from the retreat? The busy executive who only allows themselves four hours of sleep a night will have very different expectations and experiences to a person who has undiagnosed sleep apnoea and sleeps for nine hours but wants to know why they are so sleepy during the day. This leads to the second consideration: what kind of pre-screening (for conditions that might be causing insomnia) and personalisation do they offer? Many retreats advertise an individual consultation as part of the package but don’t really say what that will cover (a sleep, medical and psychiatric history and lifestyle assessment should be done as a <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/jsr.14035">bare minimum</a>. This is vital when we consider that while well-established, evidence-based treatments for a variety of sleep disturbances and disorders exist, they are not suitable for everyone. Also, there is a <a href="https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2024/fo/d4fo01113a/unauth">perception</a> that non-pharmacological therapies, including nutraceuticals (products derived from food sources that said to have health benefits) and over-the-counter remedies (such as antihistamines, melatonin and valerian), don’t have side-effects, which is <a href="https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2024/fo/d4fo01113a/unauth">not necessarily the case</a>. The final considerations are: who is delivering the retreat? And is what they are offering based on sound scientific evidence? Considering certification in sleep medicine is a hot topic in the sleep community at the moment, it is worth doing some research. For example, in the UK there is no pathway to becoming a sleep medicine specialist, consultant or coach. So who is leading the sleep retreat and is what they offering evidence-based?<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/247632/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/jason-ellis-280919">Jason Ellis</a>, Professor of Sleep Science, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/northumbria-university-newcastle-821">Northumbria University, Newcastle</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/what-are-sleep-retreats-a-sleep-scientist-explains-the-latest-wellness-trend-247632">original article</a>. </div>

Travel Tips

Man slapped with $76,000 bill on free cruise

A couple from the US have been slapped with a five-figure bill after embarking on a cruise that they won. Mark and Tami were onboard the Norwegian Cruise Line ship Encore, after winning their trip for free, to celebrate Tami given a clean bill of health after the successful removal of a “mass from her lungs” in October 2024 following a cancer diagnosis. Just four days after setting off on their five-week journey, Mark fell ill and was taken to the ship's dedicated ICU with flu symptoms and reduced oxygen levels. He received oxygen, a catheter, IV medications, and X-rays, and when he felt better the next morning, asked to quarantine in his cabin room for the remainder of the trip. However, he was not allowed to leave the medical ward, and so the costs of his stay there continued to climb. “Mike spent a total of four days in the medical ward and asked to be released each day,” his daughter Krystal Cameron wrote in a <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/relieve-mike-and-tamis-medical-burden?attribution_id=sl:5f4f89c5-bda8-4947-8f2b-5c9203b2cf8f&lang=en_US&utm_campaign=man_ss_icons&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-link-type="article-inline">GoFundMe</a> to help pay the $75,800 ($47,638 USD) medical bill. During that time, she said staff would not remove his IV line, or the catheter which Tamra claims had been incorrectly fitted and was “leaking”. “Not on your life would I put my life in these people’s hands,” Tamra added in a social media post. “Should have demanded to get off at (the) port (on the) British Virgin Islands, where I was lied to that they had no good hospital.” Norwegian Cruise Line confirmed to <a href="https://7news.com.au/news/mark-won-a-free-holiday-with-norwegian-cruise-line-then-he-was-slapped-with-a-75800-bill-onboard-c-17618959" target="_blank" rel="noopener">7News</a> that Mike’s medical procedures and resulting expenses have been reviewed internally by the company, writing in a statement, “Mr Cameron was admitted to the onboard medical centre and received appropriate treatment for his condition, followed by 62 hours of critical care." “We are committed to providing quality medical services and each of our ships is equipped with a state-of-the-art onboard medical centre, staffed with highly qualified physicians and nurses, to provide care for both guests and crew while at sea." The couple had purchased travel insurance and said the Norwegian Cruise Line medical secretary reassured them they were covered for $20,000 USD ($31,987 AUD) and told “not to worry” when they raised concerns. However, Norwegian Cruise Line maxed out both credit cards they had on file for the couple when charging them with the final bill, adding, “Medical insurance is not accepted onboard.” “We strongly encouraged the guest to file a claim with their health insurance provider post-cruise," Norwegian Cruise Line told 7News. “As the guest did purchase travel insurance for their vacation, we have recommended they follow up on their claim with the insurance provider, after they have filed the claim with their health insurance provider.” But Krystal said “neither their travel insurance nor their personal health insurance will cover the medical treatments received”. The travel insurance company requires the couple’s health insurance company to initially pay the bill, but their health insurance company states because the incident happened abroad it is not covered by the policy, Krystal said. “Between Tami’s recent cancer diagnosis and surgery ... and my father’s illness ... their medical debt is quickly adding up,” Krystal said. Image credits: GoFundMe / Facebook

Legal

Cabana drama: 5 expert tips on how not to be branded a twit when using a beach tent

<div class="theconversation-article-body"><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/samuel-cornell-1418374">Samuel Cornell</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/unsw-sydney-1414">UNSW Sydney</a> Debate erupted this week over the growing number of beach tents, or “cabanas”, proliferating on Australian beaches. The controversy, which <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@gunclediaries/video/7453200613170564370">began on social media</a>, was fuelled by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese who declared it was “not on” for beachgoers to reserve a spot on the sand by erecting a cabana then leaving it vacant for hours. Albanese <a href="https://www.pm.gov.au/media/television-interview-today-show-19">told</a> Nine’s Today show “everyone owns the beach” and staking a claim on the sand was “a breach of that principle, really”. Other critics deem beach cabanas an eyesore. And lifeguards say <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-01-21/busy-beaches-noosa-cabana-craze-surf-lifesavers/101875660">the structures can</a> obscure their view of the water, which poses a safety risk. Beach cabanas do, however, serve <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0190962208007330?via%3Dihub">a valid purpose</a>. They provide some <a href="https://theconversation.com/i-cant-get-sunburnt-through-glass-shade-or-in-water-right-5-common-sunburn-myths-busted-150640">protection against the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays</a> and, from a recreational perspective, can enable people to spend longer at the beach on hot days than they might have otherwise. I’m a member of the University of NSW <a href="https://www.beachsafetyresearch.com">Beach Safety Research Group</a>, and I’ve worked with local councils and national parks to address health and safety issues on beaches. So let’s look at how to strike the right balance between personal convenience and public safety when using a cabana. <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/U4W_2ti5QUk?wmode=transparent&start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></figure> <h2>A fair go for all?</h2> In years past, Aussies came to the beach with a towel and maybe a book, stayed a little while then left. But more recently, the use of beach tents and cabanas has grown. It’s likely the result of Australia’s <a href="https://soe.dcceew.gov.au/coasts/pressures/population">growing coastal population</a>, and a rising awareness of the dangers posed by sun exposure. These days, it’s not uncommon to visit a popular beach in summer and find a village of cabanas stretching as far as the eye can see. It’s great to see so many people using the beach. Beaches and oceans are <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0013935120310665">health-giving places</a>, though they come with inherent dangers. And of course, in Australia the beach is free for all who wish to use it. It’s an approach in line with our <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2020/oct/12/even-without-private-clubs-the-egalitarian-australian-beach-is-a-national-myth">supposedly egalitarian culture</a>, in which everyone gets a “fair go”. Here, beaches are a place to be shared, no matter what your income or social status. The approach contrasts to many destinations in Europe, the United States and elsewhere, where large sections of beaches are reserved for private use. At Waikiki beach in Honolulu, for example, people <a href="https://www.waikikibeachservices.com/royal-hawaiian/beach-umbrella-chair-rental/">pay US$100 or more</a> to hire an umbrella and chairs, and a place on the sand for the day. To some naysayers, cabana use in Australia <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/jan/07/everyone-owns-the-beach-prime-minister-anthony-albanese-weighs-in-cabana-debate">challenges the notion</a> that the beach is for everyone. They question whether people should be allowed to mark out beach territory no-one else can use. That’s why in 2020, a bid by a private company to introduce paid cabanas on Sydney’s Bondi Beach <a href="https://www.9news.com.au/national/bondi-beach-petition-to-open-paid-cabanas-on-sand-amalfi-beach-club/ef1ddae5-e24e-4dd8-810d-f0d9ba5c2971">prompted a public outcry</a>. Cabanas bring practical challenges, too. They represent an unplanned influx of temporary infrastructure into busy public spaces. Left unchecked, they could cause pedestrian congestion and become a flashpoint for disagreement between beachgoers. The current debate may prompt Australian beach authorities to consider bringing in cabana regulation, similar to what’s in place for <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/does-sydney-need-us-style-cabana-ban-to-curb-beach-spreading-20230202-p5chgi.html">some beaches in the US</a>. In the meantime, here are five tips for safe and fair use of beach cabanas: 1. Placement: Erect your cabana at the back of the beach and away from lifeguard towers or lifesaver tents to avoid obstructing lifeguards’ views. Clear sightlines to the water are essential for ensuring timely emergency responses. This positioning also leaves space closer to the water for other beachgoers, including children playing at the water’s edge. 2. Tying down: Secure your cabana firmly in the sand to prevent it from being blown away by strong winds. Flying cabanas are a danger to other beach users, potentially causing injuries and damage to property. 3. Spacing: Avoid overcrowding by maintaining two to three meters between structures. This ensures free movement and accessibility for all beachgoers, and ensures families and groups can enjoy the beach without feeling cramped. Also, stay within the boundaries of your cabana and don’t claim territory outside its boundaries. 4. Emergency access: Keep pathways and access points clear at all times. This is crucial for lifeguard vehicles, ambulances and surf rescue teams. Unobstructed access can make the difference between life and death in an emergency. 5. Common sense: As with using any shared space, consider the needs of others and apply common sense. How would you feel if someone set up a structure right in front of you, blocking your view of the waves or ruining your vibe? Or if you or a loved one needed medical attention on a beach, would you want an ambulance crew obstructed by an unbroken line of tents? <h2>Looking ahead</h2> In the past, some have called for <a href="https://au.news.yahoo.com/calls-grow-to-ban-cabanas-on-aussie-beaches-get-out-and-leave-051701259.html">a ban on beach cabanas</a>. But the structures appear here to stay – and that’s not a bad thing. Skin cancer <a href="https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/cancer/cancer-in-adolescents-and-young-adults-in-australi/contents/summary">affects more young Australians</a> than any other cancer, and the Cancer Council <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-01-26/cancer-council-beach-cabanas-skin-cancer-rate-highest-in-qld/101887320">applauds the use of cabanas</a>. It’s important to note, however, that cabanas do not <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3873510/">provide complete protection from UV rays</a>. If you’re at the beach all day, <a href="https://theconversation.com/do-beach-cabanas-actually-protect-you-from-the-sun-199102">you might still get too much sun</a> even under a tent. When it comes to your next visit to the coast, by all means pack your cabana. But make sure you use it carefully and responsibly, so everyone’s day at the beach is safe and enjoyable.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/246882/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/samuel-cornell-1418374">Samuel Cornell</a>, PhD Candidate, UNSW Beach Safety Research Group + School of Population Health, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/unsw-sydney-1414">UNSW Sydney</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/cabana-drama-5-expert-tips-on-how-not-to-be-branded-a-twit-when-using-a-beach-tent-246882">original article</a>. </div>

Travel Tips

Woman's "clever" Pringles plane hack sparks debate

A woman has sparked a debate online after she used a Pringles tube to stop the person in front of her from reclining their seat. Clare Duggan shared the hack on TikTok, with the video from her plane seat showing the packet wedged securely between the top and bottom of the tray table. “This is the best life hack when you’ve got someone in front who is trying to put the seat down constantly,” she said. In just a week, the video received over 1.5 million views and received thousands of comments from TikTok users divided over the act. Many described it as a “brilliant” and “genius” idea, while others were less impressed, calling the act "ridiculous". “You know, the seats go back so people can relax,” one person commented. “I would never do it,” another added. “I’d just ask the cabin crew to see why my chair won’t recline," a third wrote. Some people said that while the move was "clever" all passengers were “entitled to put seat back”. <div class="embed" style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 16px; vertical-align: baseline; color: #323338; font-family: Figtree, Roboto, 'Noto Sans Hebrew', 'Noto Kufi Arabic', 'Noto Sans JP', sans-serif; background-color: #ffffff; outline: none !important;"><iframe class="embedly-embed" style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border-width: 0px; border-style: initial; vertical-align: baseline; width: 535px; outline: none !important;" title="tiktok embed" src="https://cdn.embedly.com/widgets/media.html?src=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tiktok.com%2Fembed%2Fv2%2F7461268433301261600&display_name=tiktok&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tiktok.com%2F%40clareduggan1982%2Fvideo%2F7461268433301261600&image=https%3A%2F%2Fp16-sign-useast2a.tiktokcdn.com%2Fobj%2Ftos-useast2a-p-0037-euttp%2FoAbTEBfEQ9idhI4vCo5LLnzCwSILxAPgiI8AAL%3Flk3s%3Db59d6b55%26x-expires%3D1738278000%26x-signature%3DAJXi175GcI7KVGH1AbaDNFgzBTY%253D%26shp%3Db59d6b55%26shcp%3D-&type=text%2Fhtml&schema=tiktok" width="340" height="700" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></div> “The seats are literally made to recline,” one person wrote. “I never understand why people get annoyed about a seat going back. Doesn’t bother me,” another added. “Quite frankly, you should be banned from flying bloody pathetic," a third wrote. Following the wave of comments, Duggan explained that while she doesn't mind people reclining, the passenger in front of her kept ignoring her requests to incline his seat during meal service. “But this guy was refusing to lift his up when I was eating even though politely asked. So this seemed like a fair way of dealing with it,” she said. She added that the flight attendant had asked him to put up his seat, but he still didn't comply. “I always respect the person behind me by asking if they mind if I recline the seat back. That’s called consideration but I love this hack, well shared," one person commented. Image: TikTok

Travel Tips

How can I keep my cat happy? 5 tips from a vet to help your feline friend live their best life

<div class="theconversation-article-body"> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/anne-quain-12802">Anne Quain</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-sydney-841">University of Sydney</a> Around <a href="https://animalmedicinesaustralia.org.au/report/pets-in-australia-a-national-survey-of-pets-and-people-2/">one third of Australian households live with at least one cat</a>, yet surveys tell us the cats’ <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1098612X19890189">needs are not being met</a>. Cats may <a href="https://www.sup.org/books/media-studies/unified-theory-cats-internet">rule the internet</a>, but humans often misconstrue feline behaviour. Earlier this year, the Washington Post boldly declared <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2024/03/12/cats-behavior-misunderstood/">cat’s arent jerks – they’re just misunderstood</a>. This was prompted by research showing that, contrary to unhelpful stereotypes, <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1090023323000795">cats are not antisocial</a>. They can and do bond closely with humans. The more we learn about cats, the more we realise they are complex individuals with unique <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8300181/">personalities</a> and preferences, capable of <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-74006-2">learning</a>. From understanding your cat’s language to keeping them safe and healthy – here are science-backed tips to improve the lives of your feline flatmates. <h2>1. Pay attention to body language</h2> Cats communicate with humans using body language and vocalisation. However, while cats direct meows at humans, and the meows vary depending on the context, humans <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7765146/">are not great at decoding them</a>. But we can read cat body language. For example, slow blinking is likely to indicate a <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-73426-0">positive emotional state</a>. Cats who are not happy (for example, don’t want to be touched) will freeze, move away, flatten their ears, hiss, or – if they feel they have no other option – scratch or bite. It is better to allow cats to approach you on their terms, rather than pushing for social interaction. A cat approaching you with their tail up is giving a <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8469685/">friendly signal</a>, while a tail swishing from side to side signals annoyance. Cats should always have the option to opt out of any interaction, like being touched. If you aren’t sure, just “<a href="https://www.companionanimalpsychology.com/p/purr-science-of-making-your-cat-happy.html">ask</a>”: stop patting them. If they walk away, they’re not keen. If they rub their head against you, they want to continue the interaction. <h2>2. Provide a healthy environment</h2> The American Association of Feline Practitioners and the International Society of Feline Medicine have agreed upon <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/1098612X13477537">five pillars of a healthy feline environment</a>: <ol> <li> A safe space so that cats can retreat if frightened. </li> <li> Multiple, separated key resources (food, water, toileting areas, scratching areas, play areas and resting or sleeping areas) so that cats can comfortably conduct their daily activities. </li> <li> Opportunity for play and predatory behaviour, such as games with wand toys that simulate hunting. </li> <li> Positive, consistent and predictable human-cat interactions, respecting a cat’s choice about whether and how they interact. </li> <li> Respecting the importance of a cat’s senses by avoiding undesirable stimuli (strong smells and loud noises), and providing desirable sensory stimulation (for example, use of <a href="https://theconversation.com/are-catnip-and-treats-like-it-safe-for-cats-heres-how-they-affect-their-minds-and-moods-214947">catnip or silver vine</a>). </li> </ol> These pillars provide a useful checklist. If you read this and realise your cat’s food and water are right next to the litter tray, you can improve your cat’s environment (and their experiences of eating and toileting) by separating these resources right now. <h2>3. Clean the litter tray!</h2> A litter tray may represent an unpleasant chore to you, but the importance of a spacious litter tray to your cat cannot be overstated. Cats <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0376635716302972">prefer using a clean litter tray</a>, even if they are the only cat in the household. Cats like to <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S016815911730151X">spend time in the tray</a> before, during and after toileting, and they generally <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1558787814000033">prefer a large tray</a>. Poor litter hygiene is associated with a risk of urinary problems, which can be <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jvim.16389">life-threatening</a>. A <a href="https://doi.org/10.1177/1098612X19890189">survey of over 12,000 Australian cat owners</a> found that urinary problems were more common in households with a low number of litter trays per cat, less frequent removal of faeces from the trays, and the use of crystal-type cat litter. If you switch the type of litter you provide, a <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/12/8/946">slow transition</a> is recommended to allow cats to get used to the change. <h2>4. Read the room</h2> Do you have more than one cat? Tension between household cats is common but often overlooked, as it’s not always physical fighting. Signs of inter-cat tension can include prolonged staring, or even blocking the use of resources such as the litter tray or cat door, to prevent other cats from using them. In their <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1098612X241263465">2024 intercat-tension guidelines</a>, the American Association of Feline Practitioners note this can case chronic fear, anxiety and stress-related illnesses in cats. Learning to recognise and manage tension between household cats can improve the welfare of all parties. When you love your cat, it is tempting to seek to amplify the joy by adopting another. But many cats prefer to be the only cat in the household, and don’t cope well with a <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10083434/">feline flatmate</a>. If they have positive interactions with familiar, trusted humans, they’re unlikely to be lonely. <h2>5. Keep cats and other animals safe</h2> Historically, domesticated cats earned their keep <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0169534720300100">protecting grain stores</a> from rodents. But what constitutes responsible cat ownership has changed. Around 65% of Australia’s cat owners <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10215893/">confine their cats</a> indoors always, while 24% keep their cats confined at night. A major driver for indoor-only housing of cats is their <a href="https://theconversation.com/one-cat-one-year-110-native-animals-lock-up-your-pet-its-a-killing-machine-138412">predation of wildlife</a>. Another is concerns about roaming-associated risks to cats, including cat fights, infectious diseases (such as <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9546031/">feline immunodeficiency virus or FIV</a>), misadventure and motor vehicle trauma. But owners of cats kept entirely indoors were more likely to report <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0168159119301054?via%3Dihub">“problem” behaviours</a>. Ideally, cats shouldn’t be allowed to free-roam unsupervised where they can harm wildlife, even within the bounds of the property where you live. More than a third of local councils in Australia <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-05-19/banning-pet-cats-roaming-native-animals-billions-dollars-council/103856000">now require</a> cats to be contained overnight or 24 hours a day. Outdoor access provides sensory stimulation, with different sights, sounds and smells. Alternatives to free roaming include providing access to a well-designed cat run, harness-training your cat, or supervising your cat. Cats who don’t leave home unless they’re moving house or being taken to the vet, quickly learn to associate the cat carrier with a trip to an unfamiliar environment. It doesn’t take a genius to work out that a vet visit is imminent when the carrier comes out. But that negative association can be changed. <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0168159118302703">Cats who were rewarded with treats</a> when they approached, stepped inside or rested in the carrier for six weeks were much less stressed during veterinary visits. Cats are intelligent, and contrary to popular opinion, can be trained. The process can be enriching for cats and humans alike. With patience and commitment, <a href="http://www.smallanimaltalk.com/2017/04/book-review-trainable-cat-plus-that.html">you can train your cat</a> – from a simple “sit” to voluntarily stepping into the cat carrier. In short, give cats choice, respect their “cat-ness”, pay attention to their needs and try to see our world from their point of view. Your cat will be happier for it.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/242774/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/anne-quain-12802">Anne Quain</a>, Senior Lecturer, Sydney School of Veterinary Science, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-sydney-841">University of Sydney</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/how-can-i-keep-my-cat-happy-5-tips-from-a-vet-to-help-your-feline-friend-live-their-best-life-242774">original article</a>. </div>

Family & Pets

Expert reveals how to cope with flight anxiety

While thousands of Aussies travel by plane everyday, not everyone is so relaxed about air travel. According to recent Google data, searches for advice on flight anxiety are on the rise by more than 5000 per cent. Thankfully, there is help out there for those who struggle with anxious thoughts around flying. Researcher and neuroscientist Dr Brian Ramos from <a href="https://simplynootropics.com.au" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Simply Nootropics</a> explained why some people are impacted more than others. "People's past experiences, personality traits, and levels of general anxiety all play a role in how intensely they experience flying anxiety, making some individuals more prone to it than others," he told <a href="https://travel.nine.com.au/latest/how-to-get-over-flight-anxiety-before-holiday-expert-tips/72ff01bd-8245-4ba9-a440-8a5fa6fa74db">9Travel</a>. He went on to offer four ways to combat flight anxiety on your next trip. Reframe your anxiety as excitement Dr Ramos believes that by redefining the physical signs of anxiety as excitement for your holiday, you can fool your brain into thinking differently. "Reframing anxiety as excitement can trick your brain into receiving your nervous system's response more positively," Brian said. "Both anxiety and excitement trigger similar physical responses, like a racing heart and butterflies, but the key difference lies in how we interpret them.” "Instead of viewing these sensations as signs of danger, you can remind yourself they signal anticipation and energy." Think about the facts Looking at your situation practically can help calm your anxious mind when on a plane, according to Dr Ramos. "Look around you - is anyone else freaking out? Aeroplanes are one of the safest modes of transportation," Brian said. "Statistically, the odds of an accident are extremely low, with air travel being far safer than driving in a car - something we all do regularly and don't bat an eyelid at." Keep yourself busy By tapping into mindful activities can help push anxious thoughts to the back of your mind. As Brian says, "Distracting your mind with a good podcast or book is a great way to manage flight anxiety by redirecting your focus away from fear-inducing thoughts." "Engaging with a story or interesting conversation can keep your brain occupied.” Re-centre your brain if you feel yourself spiralling "To calm an anxiety attack during a flight, first, focus on your breathing," Brian said. "Practice deep, slow breaths; inhaling through your nose for four counts, holding for four, and exhaling through your mouth for four.” "Second, ground yourself using the 5-4-3-2-1 technique: identify five things you can see, four you can touch, three you can hear, two you can smell, and one you can taste.” "Finally, use positive self-talk." Image credits: Shutterstock

Travel Tips

"Horrifying": Cruise passengers left reeling over "KKK cruise"

Passengers onboard a P&O Australia cruise have been left reeling after staff members emerged in costumes resembling the Ku Klux Klan during a themed event. According to the cruise liner, the disturbing incident occurred onboard the Pacific Explorer during a Christmas-themed voyage, when a staff fun day went wrong. One passenger captured the "horrifying" moment the crew donned what she described as "offensive KKK costumes". The crew were believed to be part of the ship's housekeeping staff, with one member pictured holding up a housekeeping sign. Dressed in white cloaks and white masks with pointed tops and eye-holes cut out - the same as those worn by the KKK - the crew members competed in a Christmas-themed 'sports battle day'. Passenger Terri told <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-14306781/P-O-cruise-klu-klux-klan.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Daily Mail Australia</a> that many were excited about the onboard event day, which was highly publicised throughout the ship in the days before. However, everything allegedly went "quiet" when the costumed staff emerged, as Terri instructed her husband to "get the camera" and document the shocking moment. "I (requested) a please explain and have received no response," Terri said. "This is not tolerated in this current environment and education is desperately needed." Terri also shared the video on of the moment on social media, recounting the incident. "There was a lot excitement then it all went quiet… the lack of judgement was astounding," she said. "Everyone was there, everyone gathered, it was advertised, there was a lot of noise and it went dead quiet, just silent." "A lady sitting in front of me, her jaw dropped she was like 'what the hell', everyone was like OMG - they were calling it the 'KKK cruise'." "They’d gone the whole way through this ship dressed as the KKK and paraded through the Lido deck in front of basically every passenger but it was only then when senior crew saw them and they took their hats off." "I spoke ... to one of the (housekeeping) staff - they were all male - and he told me 'we didn't think we didn’t anything wrong'. They didn't say they weren't dressed as the Ku Klux Klan when I asked them but I truly believe it was an innocent mistake." Terri said she expected senior ship crew to offer an apology or explanation but none was given. After the controversy, A P&O Cruises Australia spokesperson clarified that the crew were dressed as "upside-down snow cones" and not as the Ku Klux Klan. "We regret if a recent incident on a Pacific Explorer cruise offended any guests," the spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia. "Several crew members dressed up as snow cones for a Christmas family event, not understanding how their costumes could be misconstrued. They were only in public view for a short time before management acted quickly and had them remove the costumes. The crew members were horrified and extremely apologetic when they learned of the distress their outfits could cause." Image credits: Facebook / Daily Mail Australia

Travel Trouble

Cruise line asks for travellers help with billion-dollar ship design

If you've ever been on a cruise ship and had your opinions on what elements of the ship could be improved, now is your chance to have your say. Celebrity Cruises is giving travellers the opportunity to help design the cruise line's newest billion-dollar ship, Celebrity Xcel. In a first for the cruising industry, dedicated cruisers will assist in making key decisions across culinary, entertainment and interior design for the new ship. "We want to ensure our guests love our products and experiences, so involving them in the process to perfect Celebrity Xcel was a great way to achieve this," Michael Scheiner, chief marketing and product officer of Celebrity Cruises, said. Open to anyone who wishes to have their say, the global community of travellers will test, try and vote on new experiences, through online polls and one-of-a-kind experiential in-person events. The Dream Makers community will have final say on design elements of the ship, such as textiles and interior design choices, as well as picking their favourite dining and beverage options to be served onboard. Plus, they get to provide input on headline shows, selecting playlists, and partake in selections to appoint pivotal entertainment positions onboard. "Celebrity Cruises is known for ground-breaking innovation in ship design and experiences unlike any other at sea," Michael said. "When Xcel launches guests won't have just found their happy place, they'll have helped us build it." Celebrity Xcel launches in November 2025 and will be the fifth ship in the cruise line's award-winning Edge Series. Those interested in joining Xcel Dream Makers to have their say on the new ship can learn more at <a title="" href="http://www.celebritycruises.com/xceldreammakers" target="_blank" rel="noopener">celebritycruises.com/xceldreammakers</a>. Image credits: Celebrity Cruises

Cruising

Travelling in 2025? Here’s how to become a ‘regenerative’ tourist

<div class="theconversation-article-body"><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/veselina-stoyanova-2260559">Veselina Stoyanova</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-birmingham-1138">University of Birmingham</a> At the start of a new year, many of us contemplate resolutions aimed at self-improvement and a better lifestyle. It is also a time when many of us start thinking about holidays. But have you considered combining the two? Could 2025 be the year when you resolve to be a better traveller? For in 2024, many tourists were on the receiving end of a very loud and very clear message. In some of Europe’s most popular holiday destinations, including Barcelona and Mallorca, there were <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2024/07/27/travel/why-europe-has-become-an-epicenter-for-anti-tourism-protests-this-summer/index.html">large protests</a> against the negative effects of mass tourism. Overcrowding, <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0160738319300817?via%3Dihub">environmental damage</a>, <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160738321001420?via%3Dihub">unaffordable housing</a> and cultural erosion appear to have pushed communities to their limits. There are <a href="https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20240925-the-summer-that-tourism-fell-apart">vocal demands</a> to make tourism <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160738322001621#s0045">more sustainable</a>. So, perhaps it’s time for travellers to <a href="https://www.unwto.org/tourism-data/un-tourism-tourism-dashboard">shift towards</a> a more sensitive and responsible form of travel. <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14616688.2022.2044376#abstract">“Regenerative” tourism</a>, for example, aims to enhance the wellbeing of places and the people who live in them. Unlike mass tourism, which often strains resources and compromises residents’ <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/21568316.2019.1599604">quality of life</a>, regenerative tourism is about giving back – by supporting local economies, preserving cultures and nurturing the environment. This means treating your holiday as more than a personal escape. Instead of just lying on a sun lounger, consider planting trees in a reforestation project or learning traditional crafts from local artisans and participating in cultural events. Depending on the location, there might be chances to join in <a href="https://www.volunteerworld.com/en/volunteer-abroad/voluntourism">community programmes</a> which help alleviate poverty or improve the lives of Indigenous communities. These actions can empower locals and help create a more inclusive environment. Wherever you go, you can seek out experiences which help to <a href="https://sdgs.un.org/goals">restore and sustain</a> the places you visit. Imagine, for instance, learning traditional Venetian glassblowing techniques as a way of supporting the artisans who keep this ancient craft alive in Italy. In rural Spain, you could support local communities in remote villages by staying in family-run guesthouses. Or in Bulgaria, you could join farm-to-table dining experiences and visit organic farms in the Thracian Valley to help promote local food production and <a href="https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/hunger/">food security</a>. There may be local events or workshops you can join, cooking classes you can take, or cultural festivals where you can interact with residents and appreciate their perspective. All of these – and countless other examples – are opportunities for travellers to make a contribution to the places they visit, leaving a positive impact. They also offer the traveller the chance to make personal connections and unforgettable memories – providing moments to engage directly with locals people, to ask questions and learn about local culture and history and community activities. Being a gracious guest promotes goodwill and strengthens the bond between travellers and locals. <h2>Direction of travel</h2> These connections also make holidays not merely about personal enjoyment, but about something deeper, with a positive affect on the places we visit. So as you browse the idyllic destinations you might decide to travel to in 2025, it’s worth asking yourself whether you want to be a passive tourist, or a regenerative traveller who combines a sense of curiosity with a sense of responsibility. Tourism in 2025 will be a big part of <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2211973617300922">many countries’ economies</a>, but not everyone is happy with the industry and its impact on the world. Yet, consumers can change its direction. The choices we make about our travel plans could mean the difference between a holiday that contributes to a legacy of positive change or one that perpetuates the social and environmental issues facing the planet and its people. As we look ahead, the question is not just where to travel on holiday, but how to travel. Perhaps 2025 could be the year that your adventures inspire transformation, creating a sustainable and inclusive future for tourism. It’s a resolution worth thinking about for years to come.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/245719/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/veselina-stoyanova-2260559">Veselina Stoyanova</a>, Associate Professor in Strategy & International Management, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-birmingham-1138">University of Birmingham</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/travelling-in-2025-heres-how-to-become-a-regenerative-tourist-245719">original article</a>. </div>

Travel Tips

Top 10 must-do activities around the world in 2025

Global travel brand Time Out has revealed their annual list of the best activities around the world. From a canoe trip in Australia to wildlife encounters in Singapore, here are the top 10 must-do activities and experiences around the world. 10. Take a micro cruise through the Arctic. This year, Micro-cruise specialist Secret Atlas will be taking 12 passengers at a time through the Arctic, for a more "intimate, once-in-a-lifetime, eco-conscious trip". The cruise will take guests on a wildlife-spotting journey through Svalbard's lesser-known northern reaches, while the other cruise will sail past the icebergs in Northeast Greenland, including a visit to one of the most remote towns on earth. These trips, however, aren't cheap with prices starting at £15,500 (around AUD $30,500) for two weeks. 9. Explore the cross-border towns of Gorizia, Italy, and Nova Gorica, Slovenia These three towns make up 2025's European Capital of Culture, with over 400 events to be held throughout the year, including a piano performance on a 200m-high bridge, as well as a food and wine event called Tastes Without Borders. 8. Go on a wildlife-spotting adventure in Singapore's new Rainforest Park The Mandai Wildlife Reserve is opening its fifth zoological park, Rainforest Wild Asia, this year, with 10 different zones, as well as 29 different species of animals, perfect for a family outing. 7. Discover Vietnam by a vintage steam train Time Out explained that two of the "beautifully restored vintage trains" date all the way back to the 60s, and will take passengers between "the central city of Da Nang and the former royal capital of Hue." 6. Visit the Musée Granet celebrating the father of post-impressionism Aix-en-Provence in France is celebrating the life of post-impressionist painter Paul Cezanne in his hometown, with the exhibition displaying almost 100 of Cèzanne’s works, as well as tours around the artist’s childhood home, former estate and art studio. 5. Visit the long-awaited Harlem's Studio Museum, New York The Studio Museum in Harlem, New York, was first opened 56 years ago, with an archive of almost 9,000 pieces from all kinds of creators. It was closed for construction almost seven years ago and will finally re-open in autumn. 4. Fly directly to Greenland The grand opening of their brand-new international airport will make this stunning location more accessible for travellers wanting to view the Northern Lights and all of the territory's natural wonders. 3. Visit the world's first museum telling stories of migration though art The Fenix museum in Katendrecht, Rotterdam will open on May 16 and is the first museum telling stories of migration through art. 2. Walk, ride or cycle along Murray River, Australia "The Murray River is the crowning jewel of Australia’s Echuca region," said Time Out’s Saffron Swire. With the opening of a new multisport adventure trail this year, cyclists, hikers and paddlers alike will get to enjoy the river in a new way. 1. Join a once-every-quarter-century spiritual celebration in Rome, Italy Italy's capital will celebrate its spiritual Jubilee this year, a Catholic festivity that's held every 25 years, with Italy expert Rebecca Ann Hughes recommending the Seven Churches Pilgrimage, "which began in the 16th century and involves a 25km walk through the city and countryside between the major basilicas." Check out the full list <a href="http://www.timeout.com/things-to-do/best-things-to-do-in-the-world" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>. Image: Shutterstock

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