Record rains bring Mumbai to a standstill, in photos
The disruption has hit local trains, a lifeline of the city's transport system. Many areas are inundated with knee-deep water, forcing people to wade through the floods.
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San Francisco Chronicle
2 minutes ago
- San Francisco Chronicle
Winged ferry that glides like a pelican tested for coastal transportation
NORTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. (AP) — The winged passenger ferry gliding over the surface of Narragansett Bay could be a new method of coastal transportation or a new kind of warship. Its maker, Regent Craft, is betting on both. Twelve quietly buzzing propellers line the 65-foot (20-meter) wingspan of Paladin, a sleek ship with an airplane's nose. It looks nothing like the sailboats and fishing trawlers it speeds past through New England's largest estuary. 'We had this vision five years ago for a seaglider — something that is as fast as an aircraft and as easy to drive as a boat,' said CEO Billy Thalheimer, jubilant after an hours-long test run of the new vessel. On a cloudy August morning, Thalheimer sat in the Paladin's cockpit and, for the first time, took control of his company's prototype craft to test its hydrofoils. The electric-powered watercraft has three modes — float, foil and fly. From the dock, it sets off like any motorized boat. Farther away from land, it rises up on hydrofoils — the same kind used by sailing ships that compete in America's Cup. The foils enable it to travel more than 50 miles per hour — and about a person's height — above the bay. What makes this vessel so unusual is that it's designed to soar about 30 feet (10 meters) above the water at up to 180 miles per hour — a feat that hasn't quite happened yet, with the first trial flights off Rhode Island's seacoast planned for the end of summer or early fall. If successful, the Paladin will coast on a cushion of air over Rhode Island Sound, lifting with the same 'ground effect' that pelicans, cormorants and other birds use to conserve energy as they swiftly glide over the sea. It could zoom to New York City — which takes at least three hours by train and longer on traffic-clogged freeways — in just an hour. Who will ride a seaglider? As it works to prove its seaworthiness to the U.S. Coast Guard and other regulators around the world, Regent is already lining up future customers for commercial ferry routes around Florida, Hawaii, Japan and the Persian Gulf. Regent is also working with the U.S. Marines to repurpose the same vessels for island-hopping troops in the Pacific. Those vessels would likely trade electric battery power for jet fuel to cover longer journeys. With backing from influential investors including Peter Thiel and Mark Cuban, Thalheimer says he's trying to use new technology to revive the 'comfort and refined nature' of 1930s-era flying boats that were popular in aviation's golden age before they were eclipsed by commercial airlines. This time, Thalheimer added, they're safer, quieter and emission-free. 'I thought they made travel easier in a way that made total sense to me,' Cuban said by email this week. 'It's hard to travel around water for short distances. It's expensive and a hassle. Regent can solve this problem and make that travel fun, easy and efficient.' Co-founders and friends Thalheimer, a skilled sailor, and chief technology officer Mike Klinker, who grew up lobster fishing, met while both were freshmen at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and later worked together at Boeing. They started Regent in 2020. They've already tested and flown a smaller model. But the much bigger, 12-passenger Paladin — prototype of a product line called Viceroy — began foil testing this summer after years of engineering research and development. A manufacturing facility is under construction nearby, with the vessels set to carry passengers by 2027. Taking flight but not an aircraft The International Maritime Organization classifies 'wing-in-ground-effect' vehicles such as Regent's as ships, not aircraft. But a database of civilian ships kept by the London-based organization lists only six around the world, all of them built before it issued new safety guidance on such craft in 2018 following revisions sought by China, France and Russia. The IMO says it treats them as marine vessels because they operate in the vicinity of other watercraft and must use the same rules for avoiding collisions. The Coast Guard takes a similar approach. 'You drive it like a boat,' Thalheimer said. 'If there's any traffic on the harbor, you'll see it on the screen. If you see a boat, you'd go around it. We're never flying over boats or anything like that.' One of the biggest technical challenges in Regent's design is the shift from foiling to flying. Hydrofoils are fast for a seafaring vessel, but far slower than the speeds needed to lift a conventional airplane from a runway. That's where air blown by the 12 propellers comes in, effectively tricking the wing into generating high lift at low speeds. All of this has worked perfectly on the computer simulations at Regent's headquarters in North Kingstown, Rhode Island. The next step is testing it over the water. Capitalizing on concerns over tensions with China For decades, the only warship known to mimic such a ground-effect design was the Soviet Union's hulking ekranoplan, which was built to fly under radar detection but never widely used. Recently, however, social media images of an apparent Chinese military ekranoplan have caught the attention of naval experts amid increasingly tense international disputes in the South China Sea. Regent has capitalized on those concerns, pitching its gliders to the U.S. government as a new method for carrying troops and cargo across island chains in the Indo-Pacific region. It could also do clandestine intelligence collection, anti-submarine warfare and be a 'mothership' for small drones, autonomous watercraft or medical evacuations, said Tom Huntley, head of Regent's government relations and defense division. They fly below radar and above sonar, which makes them 'really hard to see,' Huntley said. While the U.S. military has shown increasing interest, questions remain about their detectability, as well as their stability in various sea states and wind conditions, and their "cost at scale beyond a few prototypes and maintainability,' said retired U.S. Navy Capt. Paul S. Schmitt, an associate research professor at the Naval War College, across the bay in Newport, Rhode Island. Schmitt, who has seen Paladin from afar while sailing, said he also has questions about what kind of military mission would fit Regent's 'relatively short range and small transport capacity." Floating past Interstate 95 The possibilities that most excite Cuban and other Regent backers are commercial. Driving Interstate 95 through all the cities that span Florida's Atlantic Coast can take the better part of a day, which is one reason why Regent is pitching Miami as a hub for its coastal ferry trips. The Viceroy seagliders can already carry more passengers than the typical seaplane or helicopter, but a growing number of electric hydrofoil startups, such as Sweden's Candela and California-based Navier, are trying to stake out ferry routes around the world. Thalheimer sees his vehicles as more of a complement than a competitor to electric hydrofoils that can't travel as fast, since they will all use the same docks and charging infrastructure but could specialize in different trip lengths.
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Yahoo
US suspends visa processing in Zimbabwe, embassy says
HARARE (Reuters) -The United States has stopped processing most visas in Zimbabwe until further notice, its embassy in the capital Harare said on Wednesday, citing unspecified concerns with the government. "We have paused routine visa services in Harare while we address concerns with the Government of Zimbabwe," the embassy said in a post on X. It said the move was not a travel ban and that current visas would remain valid. The government of the Southern African country did not immediately reply to a request for comment. The pause took effect on August 7, according to a notice on the U.S. State Department's website, which said it applied to all visa services with the exception of most diplomatic and official visas. U.S. President Donald Trump's administration has restricted travel from a number of African countries, saying it is working to prevent visa overstaying and misuse. Zimbabwe had a visa overstay rate of 10.57% in 2023, according to a U.S. Department of Homeland Security report. Starting this week, the U.S. will require visa applicants from Zambia and Malawi to pay bonds of up to $15,000 for some visitor visas. The Trump administration has also paused visa processing in Niger. Harare resident Angella Chirombo said her 18-year-old son had received a scholarship to do his bachelor's degree at Michigan State University and had been waiting for a visa interview when the pause hit. "He was supposed to be in school already. I paid for everything else and was waiting for the visa so I could buy tickets," she told Reuters. She said other parents were considering booking interviews at other U.S. embassies in Southern Africa, but that she wouldn't be able to afford the travel. "Now they are saying we can go to Zambia and Namibia. I don't even have money right now and I don't know where to get this money. They are so many students that have been affected." Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
4 hours ago
- Yahoo
10 best onsens, jacuzzis, saunas & baths in Singapore
While Japan is synonymous with onsens (hot spring baths), there are onsens in Singapore, too. Even when they are replicated using mineral-infused or artificially-heated waters in Singapore, onsens — like saunas and Jacuzzis — provide health benefits such as pain and stress relief, as well as better cardiovascular health. Check out our list of the 10 best baths in Singapore to detoxify your body (and mind). 1. Yunomori Onsen & Spa Yunomori Onsen & Spa features a wide selection of onsen baths and amenities. Ranging from classic and traditional styles to contemporary and high-technology options, each bath delivers a soothing and healing experience, along with its unique advantages and benefits. The Cold Bath is typically utilised following heat treatments to enhance circulation and energise the body. This immersion revitalises the senses, aids in muscle recovery and assists in tightening pores, making it an essential part of the contrast bathing practice. Situated only in the male onsen, the Dry Sauna offers a hot, low-humidity setting that encourages sweating and detoxification. It helps to achieve cleansing and mental clarity. An Adult Day Pass (Onsen Entry) will set members back by S$38.15 and non-members by S$49.05. On the other hand, a Child Day Pass (3 to 15 Years Old) (Onsen Entry) will cost members S$27.25 and non-members have to pay S$38.15. 1 Stadium Place, Kallang Wave Mall, #02-17/18, Singapore 397628 +65 6386 4126 / +65 6385 7985 Daily: 10am – 10pm Facebook | Instagram | Website 2. Joya Onsen Cafe If you crave privacy, Joya Onsen Cafe is known for its private onsens that provide a personal and refreshing soak in natural hot spring water. Ideal for couples, families or individual relaxation, the private rooms offer a calm escape from the hustle and bustle. The Sanctuary Room (15 square metres) has a natural hot spring pool to relish a relaxing dip in water reminiscent of natural hot springs, a Sauna Space to relax in a soothing, warm environment and a Hair Dryer to revitalise your look after your visit. Their Zen Suite (21 square metres) offers a more roomy retreat, with all of the above functionalities but with additional comforts. These are the Relaxation Deck Chair to sit on during your breaks and the Steam Feature to elevate your experience with steam therapy. A 1 Pax Private Onsen + Meal Set starts from S$96, a 2 Pax Private Onsen + Meal Set starts from S$188 while a 3 Pax Private Onsen + Meal Set starts from S$246. 511 Upper Jurong Rd, #01-06, Singapore 638366 +65 8847 2081 Daily: 10.30am – 10.30pm Facebook | Instagram | Website 3. blends a nature-inspired retreat with a comprehensive spa experience. Operating around the clock every day, they offer an extensive selection of full-body treatments and spa amenities designed for both genders, enabling you to indulge in a pampering session. Facilities include Hot & Cold Rooms. The gentle bubbling of the pools is calming and can assist you in relaxing your mind and body. Additionally, you can get a reflexology massage by positioning your feet right in front of the water jets, which can invigorate your health. The spa in Singapore also has a Sauna and a Steam Room. Saunas utilise dry heat and are known for promoting relaxation, improving circulation and assisting in detoxification through sweating. Steam rooms, on the other hand, use moist heat and are particularly beneficial for respiratory health, helping to alleviate nasal congestion and moisturise the skin. After you are done, experience their intense deep tissue body treatment (S$180 for Non-Members & S$140 for Members, 60 mins) that focuses on pressure points to free blockages that impede the flow of energy in the body and detoxify the lymphatic system. 102 Guillemard Road, #02-02, Singapore 399719 +65 6280 8988 Daily: 24 hours Facebook | Instagram | Website 4. Shiruki Studio Shiruki Studio is best known for offering tailored ultrasonic hydrotherapy treatments to meet your needs. The whole treatment procedure is secure, utilising a straightforward blend of air bubbles and heat in the water, drawing inspiration from Japan's natural onsens. This hydrotherapy technology produces heated bubbles in the water, aiding in the release of tension and alleviating bodily discomfort. Additional advantages include thorough cleaning of your skin's pores, strengthening of the immune system and improving blood circulation. A must-try is their hot-cold contrast therapy, a technique that involves alternating between brief exposures to hot and cold temperatures, typically using water, ice packs, or saunas and cold plunge pools. This practice is thought to stimulate circulation, reduce inflammation and lead to faster healing and recovery, especially for those with muscle aches and injuries. A 30-minute Full Body Ultrasonic Bubble Bath will set you back by S$60, a 30-minute Foot Bubble Bath by S$30 and a 15-minute Ice Bath in Barrel Tub by S$15. 5 Kadayanallur Street, 02-01, Singapore 069183 +65 9199 0321 Mon to Fri: 5am – 1pm & 5pm – 11pm Sat & Sun: 5am – 6pm Facebook | Instagram | Website 5. Ikeda Spa Ikeda Spa is Singapore's first authentic Japanese onsen and spa. It offers a range of services, including Japanese massages, facials and onsen baths, designed to provide a taste of Japan without leaving Singapore. The spa emphasises a zen-inspired, tranquil environment and custom service, aiming to create an unforgettable experience. Ikeda Spa is the sole day spa in Singapore featuring a Japanese Zen garden. They welcome you to enjoy a serene stroll through the garden and partake in a traditional tea ceremony. Enjoying green tea in an atmosphere of peace is rejuvenating for the body and the spirit. Their Hinoki Onsen baths (S$100, 30 mins for Single & S$140, 30 mins for Couple) derive their name from hinoki, Japan's most esteemed cypress wood, which was historically reserved for nobility and utilised in the construction of palaces, temples and shrines. This wood emits mineral oils that provide calming fragrances and antibacterial characteristics. 787 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore 269762 +65 6469 8080 Daily: 1.30pm – 1.30pm Facebook | Instagram | Website Joya Onsen Cafe, Joo Koon: 'Simple, but you don't need very much to have a good time' 6. The Ice Bath Club The Ice Bath Club is a social recovery club in Singapore that focuses on contrast therapy, which involves alternating between heat and cold exposure, mainly through saunas and ice baths (S$55 per drop in), to promote the physical and mental well-being of clients. If you are looking for the ultimate social experience, their community sauna has fragrant, handcrafted woods and rock beds that maintain a temperature of 90 degrees. It creates the ideal setting for unwinding, detoxifying your body and enjoying meaningful conversations. Their warm magnesium salt bath aids in relieving muscle soreness, alleviating tension from the body, and revitalising your skin for a radiant appearance. Combine it with an ice bath for the perfect hot and cold therapy experience. Speaking of which, their cold baths consist of plunge pools maintained at temperatures between 3-10 degrees. This is an experience that reduces inflammation, restores the nervous system and rejuvenates the spirit. For a full list of locations, opening hours & contact numbers, refer here. Facebook | Instagram | Website 7. Elements Wellness Elements Wellness is a company located in Singapore that offers various spa and wellness services. These include massages, facial treatments and onsen experiences. Their onsen bathtubs are handcrafted from koyamaki wood (Japanese Umbrella Pine), a rare and revered tree. It is even the imperial crest of Prince Hisahito of Akishino, making it a symbol of royalty and prestige. Koyamaki is a sacred wood with therapeutic properties and there are still centuries-old imperial koyamaki baths that are still operating in Japan today. Available exclusively at their Centrepoint outlet, their Private Koyamaki Onsen (1 pax, 40-minute) costs S$95.92 for members and S$81.75 for non-members. If you are thinking of going with your other half for a shared experience, the Couple Koyamaki Onsen Ritual (60-minute Massage + 15-minute Back Scrub + 40-minute Private Onsen) will cost non-members S$299. Meanwhile, members only have to pay S$268. For a full list of locations, opening hours & contact numbers, refer here. Facebook | Instagram | Website 8. Ichiban Spa Ichiban Spa has invested almost a million dollars in its interiors, presenting more than just beauty services. Their environments, which include the relaxing 'Aromatherapy', tranquil 'Tea Space', and health-enhancing 'Shiatsu', are crafted for your well-being. Begin a path to serenity at the Japanese Jacuzzi Spa (90 minutes for S$139 for First-Timers only). Immerse yourself in the spa's bathtub for 30 minutes, followed by a 1-hour massage. Experience the relaxation of muscles, the calming of your mind and a boost in energy. This jacuzzi is ideal for alleviating tiredness, reducing stress, and enhancing sleep. Alternatively, engage in their Couple Jacuzzi Spa (90 minutes for S$268 for First Timers Only). Indulge in this experience that begins with a 30-minute soak in the jacuzzi, featuring jets and bubbles to promote relaxation. Afterwards, select a 60-minute treatment from options such as traditional Japanese massage, hot oil therapy and meridian shiatsu. This holistic combination helps you to relax, detoxify and customise your wellness journey. 9 Selegie Road, Selegie House, #01-31, Singapore 180009 +65 9636 3344 Daily: 9am – 10.30pm Facebook | Instagram | Website 9. Aramsa Spa If you like onsens but prefer baths inspired by other countries, Aramsa: The Garden Spa is a day spa known for its 'garden spa' concept. It's a pioneer in Singapore, offering a resort-like ambience with a focus on natural remedies and botanical extracts. The spa emphasises a holistic approach, partnering with Yoga Seeds and offering wellness events. Their Signature Garden Packages (S$388 for Singles & S$698 for Couples) include a luxurious spa treatment inspired by the ancient Javanese Lulur ritual, known for its skin-beautifying properties. The 150-minute session includes a full body exfoliation with a turmeric and rice powder scrub, a nourishing yoghurt wrap, an Aramsa Touch massage and an outdoor flower bath, offering a holistic experience of relaxation and skin rejuvenation. If you are looking for a tropical retreat but don't have the money for a staycay, their Bali Getaway package (S$388 for individuals & S$698 for pairs) is perfect for you. Start with a rice scrub that sloughs off dead skin, then enjoy a Balinese massage that alleviates muscle tension. Lastly, unwind in a bath filled with mineral salts that dissolve your worries. For a full list of locations, opening hours & contact numbers, refer here. Facebook | Instagram | Website 10. Singapore Swimming Club If you are a swimmer, stop by the Singapore Swimming Club's sauna and Jacuzzi amenities after your swim. Ideally situated close to the Recreation Pool and Gym, their contemporary changing rooms have the essentials for a delightful onsen-like experience. A daily fee of S$2.30 up to 5 times per month or a monthly fee of S$11.50 will be charged for use of their gymnasium facility. The admission fee for a term membership at the Singapore Swimming Club varies based on duration: S$2,000 for 1 year, S$3,500 for 2 years and S$5,000 for 3 years, with a refundable deposit of S$1,000 for all terms. 45 Tanjong Rhu Road, Singapore Swimming Club, Singapore 436899 +65 6342 3600 Daily: 8am – 10pm Facebook | Instagram | Website Mr Meepok: Fusion hawker stall serving Japanese-style bak chor mee with onsen egg The post 10 best onsens, jacuzzis, saunas & baths in Singapore appeared first on
