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"I’ve had nine melanomas - now I help others detect skin cancer before it’s too late"

You never know when a moment could change your life. Just ask Melissa Bates. At 43, Melissa was rundown and exhausted, focused solely on caring for her sick daughter. But during a routine GP visit, the doctor noticed something unusual – not in her child, but in Melissa. "You don’t sound too great either – mind if I listen to your chest?" the GP asked. What followed was a chance discovery of a suspicious spot on her back and a suggestion she never expected: get it checked. Melissa admits she didn’t rush. "It took me six months to get a biopsy and it turned out to be melanoma." That was just the beginning. Over the next seven years, Melissa had nine melanomas removed – from her back, left leg and left arm. But here's the surprising part: Melissa had always played it safe in the sun. "I don’t tan. I don’t lie in the sun. I’ve never touched a solarium in my life. I’ve always worn sunscreen and hats." Growing up with a GP stepdad who drilled in sun safety, Melissa followed all the rules. "Don’t go out between 11 and 2,” he’d say. Even so, her fair skin, blonde hair and blue eyes made her high-risk. "I played sports outdoors constantly as a kid – tennis, surfing, little athletics, horse riding. Even with all the caution, my skin’s always been high-risk." The good news? Melissa’s melanomas were all caught early. "I feel very fortunate they were melanoma in situ, and I only had to have 9 biopsies and 10 operations without chemotherapy or radiation because they were detected early." Today, at 49, Melissa lives on 130 acres with 20 head of cattle, raising two teenage daughters – and she’s passionate about encouraging others to stay vigilant. "I have a mission to help others catch skin cancers early." Leading dermatologist <a href="https://www.getmoshy.com.au/?utm_source=paid-search&utm_medium=adwords&utm_campaign=Moshy_Cross_Search_Brand&utm_content=150994372969&utm_term=get%20moshy&hsa_acc=9605530456&hsa_cam=19998630651&hsa_grp=150994372969&hsa_ad=690117752345&hsa_src=g&hsa_tgt=kwd-2273660214860&hsa_kw=get%20moshy&hsa_mt=b&hsa_net=adwords&hsa_ver=3&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=19998630651&gbraid=0AAAAApT1_CN5CSXJEVhBexqHMmCQF3We2&gclid=CjwKCAjwvO7CBhAqEiwA9q2YJUsDL3T-6Mwc8iq0OJi6CBWpC2YlJaV_dUCWiU5AW4kz2zhkc542NhoCqS4QAvD_BwE" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Moshy</a>'s Dr Ludi Ge agrees that year-round protection is key. She warns that even in winter, UV levels can reach 3 or higher – high enough to damage skin. And while most people remember sunscreen in summer, winter is just as important. Making a skin check part of your yearly routine might just save your life – just like it did for Melissa. Images: Supplied

Body

Older Australians are also hurting from the housing crisis. Where are the election policies to help them?

<div class="theconversation-article-body"> It would be impossible at this stage in the election campaign to be unaware that housing is a critical, potentially vote-changing, issue. But the suite of policies being proposed by the <a href="https://theconversation.com/how-do-the-coalition-and-labor-plans-on-housing-differ-and-what-have-they-ignored-253337">major parties</a> largely focus on young, first home buyers. What is glaringly noticeable is the lack of measures to improve availability and affordability for older people. Modern older lives are diverse, yet older people have become too easily pigeonholed. No more so than in respect to property, where a perception has flourished that older people own more than their fair share of housing wealth. While the value of housing has no doubt increased, home <a href="https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/australias-welfare/home-ownership-and-housing-tenure#:%7E:text=The%20home%20ownership%20rate%20of,compared%20with%2036%25%20in%202021.">ownership rates</a> among people reaching retirement age has actually declined since the mid-1990s. Older people can also face <a href="https://www.anglicare.asn.au/research-advocacy/rental-affordability/">rental stress and homelessness</a> – with almost 20,000 <a href="https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/people/housing/estimating-homelessness-census/latest-release">homeless people</a> in Australia aged over 55. Severe housing stress is a key contributing to those homelessness figures. It’s easy to blame older Australians for causing, or exacerbating, the housing crisis. But doing so ignores the fact that right now, our housing system is badly failing many older people too. <h2>No age limits</h2> Owning a home has traditionally provided financial security for retirees, especially ones relying on the age pension. This is so much so, that home ownership is sometimes described as the “fourth pillar” of Australia’s retirement system. But housing has become more expensive – to rent or buy – for everyone. Falling rates of <a href="https://grattan.edu.au/report/money-in-retirement/">home ownership</a> combined with carriage of mortgage debt into retirement, restricted access to shrinking stocks of social housing, and lack of housing affordability in the private rental market have a particular impact on older people. <h2>Housing rethink</h2> Housing policy for older Australians has mostly focused on age-specific options, such as retirement villages and aged care. Taking such a limited view excludes other potential solutions from across the broader housing system that should be considered. Furthermore, not all older people want to live in a retirement village, and fewer than <a href="https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/health/disability/disability-ageing-and-carers-australia-summary-findings/latest-release#:%7E:text=5.5%20million%20Australians%20(21.4%25),a%20profound%20or%20severe%20disability.">5% of older people</a> live in residential aged care. During my <a href="https://www.churchilltrust.com.au/fellow/victoria-cornell-sa-2019/">Churchill Fellowship study</a> exploring alternative, affordable models of housing for older people, I discovered three cultural themes that are stopping us from having a productive conversation about housing for older people. <ul> <li> Australia’s tradition of home ownership undervalues renting and treats housing as a commodity, not a basic need. This disadvantages older renters and those on low income. </li> <li> There’s a stigma regarding welfare in Australia, which influences who is seen as “deserving” and shapes the policy responses. </li> <li> While widely encouraged, “ageing-in-place” means different things to different people. It can include formal facilities or the family home that needs modifications to make it habitable as someone ages. </li> </ul> These themes are firmly entrenched, often driven by policy narratives such as the primacy of home ownership over renting. In the past 50 years or so, many have come to view welfare, such as social housing, as a <a href="https://www.ahuri.edu.au/research/final-reports/390">last resort</a>, and have aimed to age in their family home or move into a “desirable” retirement village. <h2>Variety is key</h2> A more flexible approach could deliver housing for older Australians that is more varied in design, cost and investment models. The promises made so far by political parties to help younger home buyers are welcome. However, the housing system is a complex beast and there is no single quick fix solution. First and foremost, a national housing and homelessness plan is required, which also involves the states and territories. The plan must include explicit consideration of housing options for older people. Funding for housing developments needs to be more flexible in terms of public-private sector investment and direct government assistance that goes beyond first home buyer incentives. <h2>International models</h2> For inspiration, we could look to Denmark, which has developed numerous <a href="https://www.spatialagency.net/database/co-housing">co-housing communities</a>. Co-housing models generally involve self-managing communities where residents have their own private, self-contained home, supported by communal facilities and spaces. They can be developed and designed by the owner or by a social housing provider. They can be age-specific or multi-generational. Funding flexibility, planning and design are key to their success. Institutional investors include <ul> <li> so-called impact investors, who seek social returns and often accept lower financial returns </li> <li> community housing providers </li> <li> member-based organisations, such as mutuals and co-operatives. </li> </ul> Government also plays a part by expediting the development process and providing new pathways to more affordable ownership and rental options. Europe is also leading the way on social housing, where cultural attitudes are different from here. In Vienna, Austria, more than 60% of residents live in 440,000 <a href="https://www.wienerwohnen.at/wiener-gemeindebau/municipal-housing-in-vienna.html">socially provided homes</a>. These homes are available for a person’s entire life, with appropriate age-related modifications permitted if required. At over 20% of the total housing stock, <a href="https://lbf.dk/om-lbf/english-the-danish-social-housing-model/">social housing</a> is also a large sector in Denmark, where the state and municipalities support the construction of non-profit housing. <h2>Overcoming stereotyes</h2> Our population is ageing rapidly, and more older people are now renting or facing housing insecurity. If policymakers continue to ignore their housing needs, even more older people will be at risk of living on the street, and as a result will suffer poor health and social isolation. Overcoming stereotypes - such as the idea that all older people are wealthy homeowners - is key to building fairer, more inclusive solutions. This isn’t just about older Australians. It’s about creating a housing system that works for everyone, at every stage of life.<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/255391/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> By <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/victoria-cornell-2372746">Victoria Cornell</a>, Research Fellow, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/flinders-university-972">Flinders University</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/older-australians-are-also-hurting-from-the-housing-crisis-where-are-the-election-policies-to-help-them-255391">original article</a>. Image: Shutterstock </div>

Money & Banking

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

Do any non-drug treatments help back pain? Here’s what the evidence says

<div class="theconversation-article-body"> Jason, a 42-year-old father of two, has been battling back pain for weeks. Scrolling through his phone, he sees ad after ad promising relief: chiropractic alignments, acupuncture, back braces, vibrating massage guns and herbal patches. His GP told him to “stay active”, but what does that even mean when every movement hurts? Jason wants to avoid strong painkillers and surgery, but with so many options (and opinions), it’s hard to know what works and what’s just marketing hype. If Jason’s experience sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Back pain is one of the most common reasons people visit a doctor. It can be challenging to manage, mainly due to widespread <a href="https://theconversation.com/having-good-posture-doesnt-prevent-back-pain-and-bad-posture-doesnt-cause-it-183732">misunderstandings</a> and the <a href="https://ebm.bmj.com/content/early/2025/03/02/bmjebm-2024-112974">overwhelming number</a> of ineffective and uncertain treatments promoted. We assessed the best available evidence of non-drug and non-surgical treatments to alleviate low back pain. <a href="https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD014691.pub2/full">Our review</a> – published today by the independent, international group the Cochrane Collaboration – includes 31 Cochrane systematic reviews, covering 97,000 people with back pain. It <a href="https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD014691.pub2/full">shows</a> bed rest doesn’t work for back pain. Some of the treatments that do work can depend on how long you’ve been in pain. <h2>Is back pain likely to be serious?</h2> There are different types of low back pain. It can: <ul> <li>be short-lived, lasting less than six weeks (acute back pain)</li> <li>linger for a bit longer, for six to twelve weeks (sub-acute)</li> <li>stick around for months and even years (chronic, defined as more than 12 weeks).</li> </ul> In <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/article/S0140-6736(16)30970-9/abstract">most cases</a> (90-95%), back pain is non-specific and cannot be reliably linked to a specific cause or underlying disease. This includes common structural changes seen in x-rays and MRIs of the spine. For this reason, imaging of the back is <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(09)60172-0/abstract">only</a> recommended in rare situations – typically when there’s a clear suspicion of serious back issues, such as after physical trauma or when there is numbness or loss of sensation in the groin or legs. Many people expect to receive <a href="https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD013815.pub2/full">painkillers</a> for their back pain or even surgery, but these are no longer the front-line treatment options due to limited benefits and the high risk of harm. International <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(18)30489-6/fulltext">clinical guidelines</a> recommend people choose non-drug and non-surgical treatments to relieve their pain, improve function and reduce the distress commonly associated with back pain. So what works for different types of pain? Here’s what <a href="https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD014691.pub2/full">our review found</a> when researchers compared these treatments with standard care (the typical treatment patients usually receive) or no treatment. <h2>What helps for short-term back pain</h2> 1. Stay active – don’t rest in bed If your back pain is new, the best advice is also one of the simplest: keep moving despite the pain. Changing the way you move and use your body to protect it, or resting in bed, can seem like to right way to respond to pain – and may have even been recommended in the past. But we know know this excessive protective behaviour can make it harder to return to meaningful activities. This doesn’t mean pushing through pain or hitting the gym, but instead, trying to maintain your usual routines as much as possible. Evidence suggests that doing so won’t make your pain worse, and may improve it. 2. Multidisciplinary care, if pain lingers For pain lasting six to 12 weeks, multidisciplinary treatment is likely to reduce pain compared to standard care. This involves a coordinated team of doctors, physiotherapists and psychologists working together to address the many factors contributing to your back pain persisting: <ul> <li> neurophysiological influences refer to how your nervous system is currently processing pain. It can make you more sensitive to signals from movements, thoughts, feelings and environment </li> <li> psychological factors include how your thoughts, feelings and behaviours affect your pain system and, ultimately, the experience of pain you have </li> <li> occupational factors include the physical demands of your job and how well you can manage them, as well as aspects like low job satisfaction, all of which can contribute to ongoing pain. </li> </ul> <h2>What works for chronic back pain</h2> Once pain has been around for more than 12 weeks, it can become more difficult to treat. But relief is still possible. Exercise therapy Exercise – especially programs tailored to your needs and preferences – is likely to reduce pain and help you move better. This could include aerobic activity, strength training or Pilates-based movements. It doesn’t seem to matter what type of exercise you do – it matters more that you are consistent and have the right level of supervision, especially early on. Multidisciplinary treatment As with short-term pain, coordinated care involving a mix of physical, occupational and psychological approaches likely works better than usual care alone. Psychological therapies Psychological therapies for chronic pain include approaches to help people change thinking, feelings, behaviours and reactions that might sustain persistent pain. These approaches are likely to reduce pain, though they may not be as effective in improving physical function. Acupuncture Acupuncture probably reduces pain and improves how well you can function compared to placebo or no treatment. While some debate remains about how it works, the evidence suggests potential benefits for some people with chronic back pain. <h2>What doesn’t work or still raises uncertainty?</h2> The review found that many commonly advertised treatments still have uncertain benefits or probably do not benefit people with back pain. Spinal manipulation, for example, has uncertain benefits in acute and chronic back pain, and it likely does not improve how well you function if you have acute back pain. Traction, which involves stretching the spine using weights or pulleys, probably doesn’t help with chronic back pain. Despite its popularity in some circles, there’s little evidence that it works. There isn’t enough reliable data to determine whether advertised treatments – such back braces, vibrating massage guns and herbal patches – are effective. <h2>How can you use the findings?</h2> If you have back pain, start by considering how long you’ve had it. Then explore treatment options that research supports and discuss them with your GP, psychologist or physiotherapist. Your health provider should reassure you about the importance of gradually increasing your activity to resume meaningful work, social and life activities. They should also support you in making informed decisions about which treatments are most appropriate for you at this stage. <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/253122/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" />By <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/rodrigo-rossi-nogueira-rizzo-1544189">Rodrigo Rossi Nogueira Rizzo</a>, Postdoctoral Research Fellow, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/neuroscience-research-australia-976">Neuroscience Research Australia</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/aidan-cashin-2355450">Aidan Cashin</a>, NHMRC Emerging Leadership Fellow, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/neuroscience-research-australia-976">Neuroscience Research 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/do-any-non-drug-treatments-help-back-pain-heres-what-the-evidence-says-253122">original article</a>. Image: Shutterstock </div>

Body

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

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

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

How downsizing helps create a more comfortable home

Many older Australians find their home doesn’t work for them anymore. It might feel like there’s too much space, too much maintenance or simply too many unused rooms. This is a common experience across the country, with more than <a style="color: blue;" href="https://www.downsizing.com.au/news/1391/new-data-shows-top-barriers-to-downsizing">1.8 million households</a> planning to downsize in the next five years. Downsizing offers a fresh start in a space that fits your current priorities, but it’s not always easy to figure out the best way forward. If you’re considering this step, these <a style="color: blue;" href="https://www.metricon.com.au/home-truths/here-are-10-top-tips-to-make-downsizing-into-your-dream-home-easy">downsizing tips</a> from Australia’s leading home builder, <a style="color: blue;" href="https://www.metricon.com.au/">Metricon</a>, can help you get started. <h2 style="margin: 12pt 0cm 2pt; line-height: 24.5333px; break-after: auto; font-size: 16pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-weight: normal;"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2025/02/Metricon2.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></h2> <h2 style="margin: 12pt 0cm 2pt; line-height: 24.5333px; break-after: auto; font-size: 16pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-weight: normal;">How does downsizing help you?</h2> There are a lot of ways <a style="color: blue;" href="https://www.metricon.com.au/downsizing">downsizing</a> can make life easier. With less space to look after, cleaning and maintenance become much easier. You’ll spend less time worrying about the house and more time doing things you actually enjoy. Your energy bills might also go down since it takes less power to heat or cool a smaller home. Downsizing can also give you more financial freedom. Selling a larger property means you can put that value toward what matters most, like travelling, pursuing hobbies or helping out loved ones. <h2 style="margin: 12pt 0cm 2pt; line-height: 24.5333px; break-after: auto; font-size: 16pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-weight: normal;"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2025/02/Metricon3.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></h2> <h2 style="margin: 12pt 0cm 2pt; line-height: 24.5333px; break-after: auto; font-size: 16pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-weight: normal;">Is downsizing right for you?</h2> When your home starts to feel impractical or harder to manage, downsizing could be the right choice. Unused rooms and constant upkeep can quickly become overwhelming, making it clear that your current space no longer meets your needs. Moving to a smaller, more manageable home can simplify your life and let you focus on what matters most. <h2 style="margin: 12pt 0cm 2pt; line-height: 24.5333px; break-after: auto; font-size: 16pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-weight: normal;">When should you downsize?</h2> There’s no single right time to downsize, as it depends on your situation. However, moving earlier often makes the transition less stressful and gives you more control over the process. If managing your home is becoming physically or financially demanding, or if the upkeep feels too much to handle, it might be time to consider your options. <h2 style="margin: 14pt 0cm 6pt; line-height: 24.5333px; break-after: auto; font-size: 16pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-weight: normal;"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2025/02/Metricon4.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></h2> <h2 style="margin: 14pt 0cm 6pt; line-height: 24.5333px; break-after: auto; font-size: 16pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-weight: normal;">How to declutter when you’re ready to downsize</h2> Decluttering for downsizing is easier when you focus on what truly matters. Ask yourself if each thing you own is something you use or genuinely value. Anything you no longer need can be donated, sold or given to family or friends. For sentimental items, keep a few meaningful pieces and take photos of the rest to preserve memories without cluttering your new space. <h2 style="margin: 12pt 0cm 2pt; line-height: 24.5333px; break-after: auto; font-size: 16pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-weight: normal;">What to look for in your next home?</h2> Your downsized home should be manageable, comfortable and practical. Think about how much space you really need. Homes with two to three bedrooms usually provide enough room for guests, hobbies or even extra storage without being overwhelming. To make the most of your new space, look for smart layouts that are easy to navigate and keep organised. Don’t forget about the location. Being close to shops, medical centres, and public transport makes getting around easier and saves you time. You might also prioritise energy-efficient <a style="color: blue;" href="https://www.metricon.com.au/house-designs/melbourne">house designs</a>, open layouts and low-maintenance gardens to enjoy a more manageable lifestyle. <h2 style="margin: 12pt 0cm 2pt; line-height: 24.5333px; break-after: auto; font-size: 16pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-weight: normal;"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2025/02/Metricon5.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></h2> <h2 style="margin: 12pt 0cm 2pt; line-height: 24.5333px; break-after: auto; font-size: 16pt; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-weight: normal;">Start downsizing today</h2> Downsizing can feel like a big decision, but it’s also an exciting chance to find a home that fits your lifestyle now and in the years to come. With so many options, having experts guide you through the process can make everything easier. <a style="color: blue;" href="https://www.metricon.com.au/">Metricon</a> offers a wide range of thoughtfully designed, easy-to-manage homes. Visit their website to explore the options or chat to their friendly team today on 1300 786 773. Images: Supplied This is a sponsored article produced in partnership with Metricon

Home & Garden

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

To keep your cool in a heatwave, it may help to water your trees

<div class="theconversation-article-body"><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/gregory-moore-1779">Gregory Moore</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-melbourne-722">The University of Melbourne</a> <a href="https://knowledge.aidr.org.au/resources/heatwave/">Heatwaves</a> are among the world’s <a href="https://wmo.int/topics/heatwave#:%7E:text=Impact,died%20from%20heat%2Drelated%20stress.">deadliest</a> weather hazards. Every year, vast numbers of people are <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1462901114000999">killed by heat stress</a> and it can worsen health problems such as <a href="https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/climate-change-heat-and-health">diabetes, asthma and heart disease</a>. Unfortunately, the bitumen roads, brick and concrete structures and roofing tiles in cities can absorb and retain vast amounts of heat, much of which is released after the sun has set. This creates what’s known as the <a href="https://www.climatechange.environment.nsw.gov.au/impacts-climate-change/built-environment/urban-heat">urban heat island effect</a>. In fact, temperatures can be <a href="https://www.climatechange.environment.nsw.gov.au/impacts-climate-change/built-environment/urban-heat#:%7E:text=and%20rural%20environments.-,In%20large%20cities%2C%20average%20temperatures%20can%20be%201%C2%B0C,parts%20experiencing%20even%20higher%20temperatures.">significantly higher in cities</a> than in <a href="https://greenly.earth/en-us/blog/ecology-news/6-key-things-to-know-about-urban-heat-islands">surrounding or rural areas</a>. Trees and greenspace can <a href="https://wwf.org.au/blogs/trees-lower-temperatures-in-a-sydney-street-by-20-degrees/">drive down urban temperatures</a> – but they must be able to draw water from the soil to achieve these massive cooling effects. In other words, it can sometimes be helpful to water your trees during a heatwave. <h2>How trees keep us cool (and no, it’s not just about shade)</h2> Trees reduce urban temperatures in two significant ways. One is by the shade they provides and the other is through their cooling effect – and no, they’re not the same thing. Water is taken up via a plant’s roots, moves through the stems or trunks and is then misted into the air from the leaves through little holes called stomata. This is called transpiration, and it helps cool the air around leaves. <figure class="align-center zoomable"><a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/640861/original/file-20250107-15-dfepgd.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/640861/original/file-20250107-15-dfepgd.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/640861/original/file-20250107-15-dfepgd.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=600&h=615&fit=crop&dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/640861/original/file-20250107-15-dfepgd.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=600&h=615&fit=crop&dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/640861/original/file-20250107-15-dfepgd.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=600&h=615&fit=crop&dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/640861/original/file-20250107-15-dfepgd.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=754&h=772&fit=crop&dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/640861/original/file-20250107-15-dfepgd.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=30&auto=format&w=754&h=772&fit=crop&dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/640861/original/file-20250107-15-dfepgd.jpg?ixlib=rb-4.1.0&q=15&auto=format&w=754&h=772&fit=crop&dpr=3 2262w" alt="A diagram shows how transpiration happens." /></a><figcaption>Transpiration helps cools the air around a plant’s leaves. <a class="source" href="https://www.shutterstock.com/image-vector/transpiration-stages-plants-roots-absorb-water-1856372440">grayjay/Shutterstock</a></figcaption></figure> Water can also evaporate from soil and other surfaces. The combined loss of water from plants and soil is called evapotranspiration. The cooling effects of evapotranspiration vary but are up to <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2095311913605432#:%7E:text=Our%20literature%20review%20suggests%20that,ways%20of%20reducing%20urban%20temperatures">4°C</a>, depending on other environmental factors. <h2>Watering your trees</h2> If heatwaves occur in generally hot, dry weather, then trees will provide shade – but some may struggle with transpiration if the soil is too dry. This can reduce the cooling effect of trees. Keeping soil moist and plants irrigated, however, can change that. The best time to irrigate is early in the morning, as the water is less likely to evaporate quickly before transpiration can occur. You don’t need to do a deep water; most absorbing roots are close to the <a href="https://theconversation.com/here-are-5-practical-ways-trees-can-help-us-survive-climate-change-129753">surface</a>, so a bit of brief irrigation will often do the trick. You could also recycle water from your shower. Using mulch helps trap the water in the soil, giving the roots time to absorb it before it evaporates. All transpiring plants have a cooling effect on the air surrounding them, so you might wonder if trees have anything special to offer in terms of the urban heat island effect and heatwaves. Their great size means that they provide much larger areas of shade than other plants and if they are transpiring then there are greater cooling effects. The surface area of tree leaves, which is crucial to the evaporative cooling that takes place on their surfaces, is also much greater than many other plants. Another advantage is that trees can be very long lived. They <a href="https://www.epa.gov/heatislands/using-trees-and-vegetation-reduce-heat-islands">provide shade, cooling and other benefits</a> over a very long time and at relatively low cost. <h2>Not all trees</h2> All that said, I don’t want to overstate the role of urban trees in heatwaves when soils are dry. Some trees cease transpiring early as soils dry, but <a href="https://auf.isa-arbor.com/content/39/3/109">others will persist</a> until they wilt. Careful tree selection can help <a href="https://treenet.org/resource/it-isnt-rocket-science-street-trees-can-make-a-difference-in-climate-change/">maximise the cooling effects</a> of the urban forest. Trees that suit the local soil and can cope with some drying while maintaining transpiration can provide greater cooling And, of course, it is important to follow any <a href="https://www.water.vic.gov.au/for-households/water-restrictions-and-rules/permanent-water-saving-rules">water restriction</a> <a href="https://www.nsw.gov.au/environment-land-and-water/drought/water-restrictions">rules</a> or <a href="https://www.sydneywater.com.au/water-the-environment/what-we-are-doing/water-wise-guidelines.html">guidelines</a> that may be operating in your area at the time. <h2>Trees keep us cool</h2> Despite the clear benefits trees can provide in curbing heat, tree numbers and canopy cover are declining annually in many Australian cities and towns. Housing development still occurs without proper consideration of how trees and greenspace improve residents’ quality of life. It is not an either/or argument. With proper planning, <a href="https://theconversation.com/adelaide-is-losing-75-000-trees-a-year-tree-removal-laws-must-be-tightened-if-we-want-our-cities-to-be-liveable-and-green-216990">you can have both</a> new housing and good tree canopy cover. We should also be cautious of <a href="https://au.news.yahoo.com/trees-butchered-by-power-company-highlight-common-problem-its-sad-012952515.html?guccounter=1">over-pruning</a> urban trees. Trees cannot eliminate the effects of a heatwave but can mitigate some of them. Anything that we can do to mitigate the urban heat island effect and keep our cities and towns cooler will reduce heat-related illness and associated medical costs.<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/246486/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/gregory-moore-1779">Gregory Moore</a>, Senior Research Associate, School of Agriculture, Food and Ecosystem Sciences, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-melbourne-722">The University of Melbourne</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/to-keep-your-cool-in-a-heatwave-it-may-help-to-water-your-trees-246486">original article</a>. </div>

Home & Garden

Most retirees who rent live in poverty. Here’s how boosting rent assistance could help lift them out of it

<div class="theconversation-article-body"><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/brendan-coates-154644">Brendan Coates</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/grattan-institute-1168">Grattan Institute</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/joey-moloney-1334959">Joey Moloney</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/grattan-institute-1168">Grattan Institute</a>, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/matthew-bowes-2316740">Matthew Bowes</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/grattan-institute-1168">Grattan Institute</a> Most Australians can look forward to a comfortable retirement. More than three in four retirees own their own home, most report feeling comfortable financially, and few suffer financial stress. But our new Grattan Institute <a href="https://grattan.edu.au/report/renting-in-retirement-why-rent-assistance-needs-to-rise/">report</a> paints a sobering picture for one group: retirees who rent in the private market. Two-thirds of this group live in poverty, including more than three in four single women who live alone. <hr /> <iframe id="x2VND" class="tc-infographic-datawrapper" style="border: 0;" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/x2VND/" width="100%" height="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe> <hr /> Retirees who rent often have little in the way of retirement savings: more than half have less than A$25,000 stashed away. And a growing number of older Australians are at risk of becoming homeless. But our research also shows just how much we’d need to boost Commonwealth Rent Assistance to make housing more affordable and ensure all renters are able to retire with dignity. <h2>Today’s renters, tomorrow’s renting retirees</h2> Home ownership is falling among poorer Australians who are approaching retirement. Between 1981 and 2021, home ownership rates among the poorest 40% of 45–54-year-olds fell from 68% to just 54%. Today’s low-income renters are tomorrow’s renting retirees. Age pensioners need at least $40,000 in savings to afford to spend $350 a week in rent, together with the <a href="https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/age-pension">Age Pension</a> and <a href="https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/rent-assistance">Rent Assistance</a>. That’s enough to afford the cheapest 25% of one-bedroom homes in capital cities. But Australians who are renting as they approach retirement tend to have little in the way of retirement savings. 40% of renting households aged 55-64 have net financial wealth less than $40,000. <h2>Rent assistance is too low</h2> Our <a href="https://grattan.edu.au/report/renting-in-retirement-why-rent-assistance-needs-to-rise/">research</a> shows that Commonwealth Rent Assistance, which supplements the Age Pension for poorer retirees who rent, is inadequate. The federal government has <a href="https://ministers.treasury.gov.au/ministers/jim-chalmers-2022/speeches/budget-speech-2024-25">lifted the maximum rate of Rent Assistance</a> by 27% – over and above inflation – in the past two budgets. But the payment remains too low. A typical single retiree needs at least $379 per week to afford essential non-housing costs such as food, transport and energy. But we found a single pensioner who relies solely on income support can afford to rent just 4% of one-bedroom homes in Sydney, 13% in Brisbane, and 14% in Melbourne, after covering these basic living expenses. With Rent Assistance indexed to inflation, rather than low-income earners’ housing costs, the maximum rate of the payment has increased by 136% since 2001, while the rents paid by recipients have increased by 193%. <h2>A boost is needed</h2> Our analysis suggests that to solve this problem, the federal government should increase the maximum rate of Rent Assistance by 50% for singles and 40% for couples. The payment should also be indexed to changes in rents for the cheapest 25% of homes in our capital cities. These increases would boost the maximum rate of Rent Assistance by $53 a week ($2,750 a year) for singles, and $40 a week ($2,080 a year) for couples. This would ensure single retirees could afford to spend $350 a week on rent, enough to rent the cheapest 25% of one-bedroom homes across Australian capital cities, while still affording other essentials. Similarly, retired couples would be able to afford to spend $390 a week on rent, enough to rent the cheapest 25% of all one- and two-bedroom homes. <hr /> <iframe id="EZBuw" class="tc-infographic-datawrapper" style="border: 0;" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/EZBuw/" width="100%" height="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe> <hr /> <h2>Unlikely to push up rents</h2> One common concern is that increasing Rent Assistance will just lead landlords to hike rents. But we find little evidence that this is the case. International studies suggest that more than five in six dollars of any extra Rent Assistance paid would benefit renters, rather than landlords. <hr /> <iframe id="qGxQE" class="tc-infographic-datawrapper" style="border: 0;" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/qGxQE/" width="100%" height="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe> <hr /> In Australia, there’s little evidence that recent increases in Rent Assistance have pushed up rents. Our analysis of NSW rental bond lodgement data suggests areas with higher concentrations of Rent Assistance recipients did not see larger rent increases in the year after the payment was boosted. That’s not surprising. Rent Assistance is paid to tenants, not landlords, which means tenants are likely to spend only a small portion of any extra income on housing. Since rates of financial stress are even higher among younger renters, we propose that any increase to Rent Assistance should also apply to working-age households. Boosting Rent Assistance for all recipients would cost about $2 billion a year, with about $500 million of this going to retirees. These increases could be paid for by further <a href="https://grattan.edu.au/report/super-savings-practical-policies-for-fairer-superannuation-and-a-stronger-budget/">tightening superannuation tax breaks</a>, <a href="https://grattan.edu.au/report/housing-affordability-re-imagining-the-australian-dream/">curbing negative gearing and halving the capital gains tax discount</a>, or counting more of the value of the family home in the Age Pension assets test.<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/249134/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/brendan-coates-154644">Brendan Coates</a>, Program Director, Housing and Economic Security, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/grattan-institute-1168">Grattan Institute</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/joey-moloney-1334959">Joey Moloney</a>, Deputy Program Director, Housing and Economic Security, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/grattan-institute-1168">Grattan Institute</a>, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/matthew-bowes-2316740">Matthew Bowes</a>, Associate, Housing and Economic Security, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/grattan-institute-1168">Grattan Institute</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/most-retirees-who-rent-live-in-poverty-heres-how-boosting-rent-assistance-could-help-lift-them-out-of-it-249134">original article</a>. </div>

Money & Banking

What are cooling blankets? Can they really help me sleep?

<div class="theconversation-article-body"> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/linda-grosser-1461631">Linda Grosser</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-south-australia-1180">University of South Australia</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/luana-main-2270550">Luana Main</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/deakin-university-757">Deakin University</a> You wake up exhausted from yet another hot night of tossing and turning, with very little sleep. So you might be tempted to buy a “cooling blanket” after reading rave reviews on social media. Or you might have read online articles with <a href="https://www.news.com.au/checkout/home-and-garden/bedroom/bedding/best-cooling-blankets/news-story/118ce05eba1e7d5cdff3aeadae5ae940">taglines such as</a>: <blockquote> Stop waking up in a puddle of sweat with our roundup of the best cooling blankets – including a top-rated option from Amazon that ‘actually works’. </blockquote> But what are cooling blankets? And can they help you get a restful night? <h2>We know a cooler bedroom is best</h2> First, let’s look at why a cooler environment helps us sleep better at night. Our body’s internal temperature has a <a href="https://www.sleepfoundation.org/circadian-rhythm">circadian rhythm</a>, meaning it fluctuates throughout the day. A couple of hours before bed, it drops about <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1087079203000236">0.31°C</a> to help you fall asleep. It will drop about <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7323637/">another 2°C</a> across the night to help you stay asleep. During sleep, your internal temperature and skin work together to achieve a balance between losing and producing heat. Your skin has sensors that pick-up changes in the environment around you. If it gets too warm, these sensors let your body know, which may cause you to kick-off blankets or bed clothes and wake more often leading to poorer sleep quality. <a href="https://www.thensf.org/what-is-sleep-quality/">Sleep quality</a> is an important component of sleep health ensuring you get the physical, mental and emotional benefits that come from a good night’s sleep. The <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0360132318300325">ideal temperature</a> for sleep varies depending on the season and type of bedding you have but falls between 17°C and 28°C. Keeping your sleeping environment within this range will help you to get the best night’s rest. <h2>So what are cooling blankets?</h2> Cooling blankets are designed to help regulate your body temperature while you sleep. Different technologies and materials are used in their design and construction. We’re not talking about <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2206487/">hospital-grade</a> cooling blankets that are used to reduce fever and prevent injury to the nervous system. These use gel pads with circulating water, or air-cooling systems, connected to automatic thermostats to monitor someone’s temperature. Instead, the type of consumer-grade cooling blankets you might see advertised use a blend of lightweight, breathable materials that draw moisture away from the skin to help you stay cool and dry through the night. They look like regular blankets. Common materials include cotton, bamboo, silk or the fibre <a href="https://goodonyou.eco/how-ethical-is-tencel/">Lyocell</a>, all of which absorb moisture. Manufacturers typically use a <a href="https://www.sleepfoundation.org/best-sheets/best-thread-count-for-sheets">thread count</a> of <a href="https://www.trustsleep.com/how-do-cooling-blankets-work/">300-500</a>, creating air pockets that enhance airflow and moisture evaporation. Some blankets feature a <a href="https://getrest.com.au/blogs/all/unveiling-the-secrets-of-q-max-the-key-to-a-perfect-nights-sleep">Q-Max rating</a>, which indicates how cool the fabric feels against your skin. The higher the value, the cooler the fabric feels. Others feature <a href="https://www.trustsleep.com/how-do-cooling-blankets-work/">phase change materials</a>. These materials were developed by <a href="https://spinoff.nasa.gov/Spinoff2009/ch_4.html">NASA</a> for space suits to keep astronauts comfortable during a spacewalk where temperatures are from roughly <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/humans-in-space/spacewalk-spacesuit-basics/">-157°C to 121°C</a>. Phase change materials in cooling blankets absorb and hold heat producing a cooling effect. <h2>Do they work?</h2> If you believe online reviews, yes, cooling blankets can cool you down and help you sleep better in warmer weather or if you get too hot using normal sheets and blankets. However, there is little scientific research to see if these consumer-grade products work. In a 2021 <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/13/16/9099">study</a> exploring sleep quality, 20 participants slept for three nights under two different conditions. First, they slept with regular bed sheets in an air-conditioned room with the temperature set to their preference. Then, they used cooling bed sheets in an air-conditioned room where the temperature was set 3°C higher than their preference. Participants reported good sleep quality in both conditions but preferred the warmer room with its cooling sheets. This may suggest the use of cooling bedding may help provide a more comfortable night’s sleep. But everyone’s cooling needs varies depending on things like age, health, body temperature, the space you sleep in, and personal preferences. So while these products may work for some people who may be motivated to leave a good review, they may not necessarily work for you. <h2>Are they worth it?</h2> There’s a wide variety of cooling blankets available at different prices to suit various budgets. Positive customer reviews might encourage a purchase, especially for individuals experiencing disrupted sleep at night due to heat. Yet, these cooling blankets have limited scientific research to show they work and to say if they’re worth it. So it’s up to you. <h2>What else can I do if I’m a hot sleeper?</h2> If a cooling blanket isn’t for you, there are other things you can do to stay cool at night, such as: <ul> <li> using air conditioning or a fan </li> <li> placing a damp towel under or over you </li> <li> wearing lightweight or minimal sleepwear and avoiding thick or synthetic fabrics, such as nylon, that can trap heat </li> <li> if you usually share a bed, on hot nights, consider sleeping by yourself to avoid excess body heat from your partner. </li> </ul> On a final note, if you often struggle with hot, disturbed sleep, you can check in with your health-care provider. They can see if there is a medical explanation for your disturbed sleep and advise what to try next.<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/244158/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/linda-grosser-1461631">Linda Grosser</a>, Research Associate, Behaviour-Brain-Body Research Centre, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-south-australia-1180">University of South Australia</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/luana-main-2270550">Luana Main</a>, Associate Professor in Applied Sport Science, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/deakin-university-757">Deakin University</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-cooling-blankets-can-they-really-help-me-sleep-244158">original article</a>. </div>

Home & Garden

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

Electrolyte beverages can help your body stay balanced − but may worsen symptoms if you’re sick

<div class="theconversation-article-body"><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/bryn-beeder-2260643">Bryn Beeder</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/miami-university-1934">Miami University</a> For generations, <a href="https://performancepartner.gatorade.com/products">Gatorade</a> and similar electrolyte beverages have been helpful tools for athletes seeking a competitive edge. In 1965, <a href="https://explore.research.ufl.edu/historical-markers/gatorades-birthplace/">Dr. Robert Cade and a team of scientists</a> at the University of Florida College of Medicine created Gatorade to help their football players combat heat exhaustion and muscle cramps during long practices in extreme temperatures. The drink’s winning formula of water, sodium, potassium and sugar works effectively with the human body to keep users hydrated, refueling them with energy and optimizing muscle function. While I don’t work for or receive funding from Gatorade, <a href="https://miamioh.edu/profiles/ehs/bryn-beeder.html">as a registered dietitian and nutrition instructor</a>, I’ve watched how specific electrolyte beverages can be handpicked to boost hydration in hospitalized patients, student athletes and even myself. And while Gatorade was one of the first electrolyte beverages heavily marketed to consumers, its ingredient combination has paved the way for the creation of even more sport and electrolyte beverages on the grocery store shelves today. If you’re looking to gain a specific nutritional edge from a sports drink, you can seek out a registered dietitian for an individualized plan. Otherwise, if you’ve ever wondered what makes these colorful beverages a nutrition attraction, here’s a closer look at some key ingredients. <h2>The importance of hydration</h2> Whether people are athletes or not, the human body is constantly losing water through normal human functions such as sweating, urinating and even breathing. When water is lost, the body also excretes key electrolytes such as <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/salt/sodium-potassium-health/index.html">potassium and sodium</a>. These electrolytes are crucial for everything from heart function to muscle contractions. <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/21790-electrolytes">Electrolytes</a> get their “electro” name from having an electrical charge when dissolved in water. This charge allows them to work throughout the body in chemical reactions that maintain normal brain functioning, balance fluids inside and outside of body cells and even balance how acidic or alkaline your blood is. <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/l3VWb0mUS7Y?wmode=transparent&start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe><figcaption>Electrolytes can help you rehydrate after a workout by balancing fluids in our cells.</figcaption></figure> Major stress on the body can accelerate the <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9013-dehydration">dehydration process</a> – whether it’s intentional, like running a 5K, or unintentional, like getting a nasty stomach bug. If left unchecked, dehydration can cause more serious complications, such as fainting and irregular heartbeats. To prevent these complications, you need to replenish the fluids and electrolytes you’re losing. Stressful scenarios such as exercise and sickness are a perfect time to consider an electrolyte replacement drink. <h2>A closer look at Gatorade’s ingredients</h2> Water, the main ingredient in most sports drinks, <a href="https://www.eatright.org/health/essential-nutrients/water/how-much-water-do-you-need">hydrates you</a>. The human body is made up of <a href="https://www.usgs.gov/special-topics/water-science-school/science/water-you-water-and-human-body">approximately 60% water</a>, so to stay hydrated, it is important to listen to your body and drink water regularly. When the body’s water volume is decreased, it sends thirst signals to the brain. However, these signals often lag behind your hydration status. So, once you feel thirsty, your body is likely already slightly dehydrated. For a more accurate hydration assessment, check the <a href="https://health.clevelandclinic.org/what-urine-color-means">color of your urine</a>. Darker yellow or golden urine? Grab some water. Pale yellow or clear urine? Keep up the good hydration. <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/21790-electrolytes">Sodium, another ingredient in Gatorade, attracts water</a>. When you are dehydrated, the body’s blood is more concentrated because less water is circulating overall. When you have a lower blood volume, your blood vessels don’t expand as much as they normally would – ultimately lowering blood pressure. If blood pressure drops too quickly due to dehydration, you might feel dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea or weakness. The good news is that sodium actively pulls water into the bloodstream. So during an intense workout or while dealing with a dehydrating illness, consuming a salty snack or sports beverage can help. <a href="https://health.clevelandclinic.org/potassium">The potassium in Gatorade regulates muscle contractions</a>. This electrolyte is especially critical for regulating your heartbeat, and it also aids in normal skeletal muscle contractions. If the body lacks enough potassium, painful muscle cramps or dizziness can disrupt your workout or day. <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/15416-carbohydrates">Sugar provides quick energy</a> and nutrient absorption power. A traditional Gatorade beverage contains glucose and dextrose, which are both known as simple sugars. A simple sugar is one that the body can quickly digest and absorb, with the goal of quickly increasing blood sugar. Strenuous aerobic exercise or strength training for longer than 60 minutes, performing activities in very hot or humid climates, or the physical strain of an unwelcome illness can all rev the body’s metabolism and quickly deplete <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/bloodglucose.html">blood glucose</a>. When glucose levels drop, you may experience fatigue, weakness, lightheadedness, nausea or difficulty concentrating. The nutrient combination found in Gatorade was designed with athletes in mind, but it is also sometimes discussed as a remedy to consider during an unpleasant bout of gastrointestinal illness. <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4108-diarrhea">Diarrhea</a> and <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/8106-nausea--vomiting">vomiting</a> are easy routes for electrolytes such as sodium and potassium to escape. Energy drinks’ combination of simple sugars, water and electrolytes may be one strategy to maintain hydration during a time when food and fluids are difficult to stomach. However, be cautious – many traditional sports drinks have a high sugar content aimed at refueling lost energy during a workout. When that same sugar content is introduced to an upset gastrointestinal tract, it can pull in extra water, leading to more diarrhea. If you find yourself in this situation, here are some other options to consider. Opt for a lower-sugar electrolyte beverage. Beverages to consider include Pedialyte or even a broth-based soup. Both will hydrate with minimal added sugar content. The human body is incredibly efficient at managing nutrients in the blood. In most cases, balanced meals and water consumption are enough to meet your daily nutrient needs. During intense physical exercise or an unexpected illness, however, the body may struggle to maintain its usual balance. If you notice unusual symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue or persistent thirst, your body will need attention. In specific cases of dehydration from exercise or illness, a sports drink like Gatorade can be a simple tool to help you bounce back to your best self.<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/243763/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/bryn-beeder-2260643">Bryn Beeder</a>, Visiting Instructor in Kinesiology, Nutrition, and Health, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/miami-university-1934">Miami University</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/electrolyte-beverages-can-help-your-body-stay-balanced-but-may-worsen-symptoms-if-youre-sick-243763">original article</a>. </div>

Body

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

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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