Latest news with #KarenYoung
Bloomberg
28-06-2025
- Business
- Bloomberg
How the Israel-Iran War Could Reshape the Economic Landscape
The Middle East Institute's Karen Young breaks down the dynamics between Israel and Iran and how extended conflict will economically affect other countries in the Middle East. Young believes that although Iran is 'weakened,' it still has the ability to 'lash out." Former US Treasury Secretary Lawrence H. Summers explains why the war has had little effect on global markets. (Source: Bloomberg)
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Travel + Leisure
21-06-2025
- Travel + Leisure
Flight Attendants Reveal the Most Impractical Travel Outfits They've Seen—and What to Wear Instead, From $13
Flight attendants have a front-row seat to every travel faux pas, especially when it comes to what people wear on planes. So, I asked two seasoned pros to weigh in on the most impractical outfits they've seen—and more importantly, what to wear instead. According to two flight attendants—Karen Young, who has 47 years of experience, and Crista Treat, who takes her airport outfits just as seriously as her vacation looks—far too many travelers still fall short. From sky-high heels and stiff business attire to bulky belts and even barefoot passengers (yes, that happens), these in-flight missteps can lead to unnecessary discomfort—or worse, a hygiene horror story. Their expert advice? Dress smart. With the right pieces, you'll feel cozy, look put together, and breeze through security with ease. Ahead, Karen and Crista share the common outfit mistakes they see on board—and what they recommend wearing instead, from stylish athleisure to foldable tote bags and cozy compression socks. Prices start at just $13. Cabin temps are notoriously unpredictable, and if you're seated by the window, prepare for a deep chill. Flight attendants unanimously agree: the biggest travel mistake they see isn't what people wear, but what they don't . "It's always cold on airplanes, particularly next to the window," Karen shared. "Layering is super important." Crista echoed that sentiment, adding that a layered outfit isn't just functional—it can actually elevate your entire look. 'Dress in layers is my biggest tip,' she says. 'A sweater dropped over your shoulders elevates any look and also gives you the ability to warm up as well.' She advises you to remember: 'You can control your temperature versus relying on the airplane for temperature.' Sure, if you're heading straight into a business meeting from the gate, that pencil skirt or blazer might make sense. But for the rest of us? 'Impractical outfits to me, are the all-nighter flights where people are in suits and ties and business attire,' Crista said. 'It's time to go to sleep.' Her go-to travel outfit is a blend of comfort and style: leggings, a cropped zip-up, and a tank underneath. And when it comes to brands? She's loyal. 'I always wear Lululemon or Vuori,' she added. Barefoot on a plane? That's a hard no—and a surprisingly common offense, according to flight attendant Karen. 'Underline this: never, never go barefoot walking around an airplane,' she warned. 'There's always broken glass. Plus, the floors—particularly in the bathroom—are filthy.' Going shoeless isn't just unsanitary; it's inconsiderate. 'I've had to tell people to put their shoes back on because other passengers were complaining that their feet stink,' she added. Instead, both Karen and Crista recommend wearing compression socks, not only for hygiene but also for circulation. Karen noted they're especially important for travelers with heart or circulation concerns, while Crista praised them as a simple in-flight wellness hack. 'They're so great for you,' she emphasized. 'I have a couple of pairs that I wear on longer flights. I also do calf raises while sitting to help with blood flow.' You won't score any points with flight crews by boarding in stilettos—especially on a red-eye. 'Wearing high heels on an all-nighter flight is just ridiculous,' Crista claimed. Not only are they impractical for dashing through terminals, but they can also be downright uncomfortable once you're in the air. 'Wear shoes with plenty of room in them—especially on long flights, because your feet can swell up,' Karen added. Swollen feet and sky-high heels? That's a recipe for in-flight misery. Instead, Crista recommends the ever-comfy Adidas Sambas. They're stylish, supportive, and easy to slip off at TSA. Keep scrolling to shop these kicks and other comfy shoes we swear by. Belts might look polished, but they're more trouble than they're worth when flying. Not only can they be uncomfortable under your seatbelt for hours, but they also tend to set off alarms at security. 'Belts always go off at security,' Crista points out, which means you'll likely end up fumbling to remove it in line or getting pulled aside for a second screening. Instead, opt for drawstring bottoms or pull-on pants that don't require a belt. They're more comfortable for long stretches in the air and will help you breeze through TSA without extra hassle. Jewelry might elevate your outfit, but wearing it through the airport isn't worth the hassle. 'I pack my jewelry in my backpack or carry-on instead of wearing it, so I don't risk setting off security,' Crista said. Beyond triggering alarms at TSA, traveling with bulky or expensive pieces can increase your chances of losing something valuable, or worse, having it stolen. A better strategy? Stow your accessories in a compact, zippered travel case so everything stays organized, secure, and easy to access once you land. When it comes to carry-on extras, flight attendants know a thing or two about practicality, and Karen swears by the iconic Longchamp tote. 'They fold up to nothing,' she explained, making them perfect to stash in your personal item until you need extra space. 'If you buy duty-free items or grab food at the airport, you can just unfold it, and it opens into a really nice bag.' According to Karen, it's practically a uniform accessory: 'Longchamp tote bags are the number one tote for most flight attendants.' She also called out another flight crew favorite: the Baggalini Carry-all Expandable Tote Bagi. Designed with plenty of compartments and thoughtful organization, 'it's very popular with all of the zippered compartments,' she noted—especially for travelers who want easy access to passports, earbuds, and other essentials mid-flight. Love a great deal? 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Travel + Leisure
15-06-2025
- Health
- Travel + Leisure
Yes, You Should Wear Compression Socks on Flights—a Former Nurse Shares the Important Reason Why
While it's a completely normal occurrence to experience leg, ankle, and foot swelling on a flight, it can be pretty uncomfortable. Rather than endure the physical distress, you can invest in a pair of flight attendant-approved compression socks. Karen Young, a nurse-turned-flight attendant with nearly 50 years of experience in the latter role, shared with Travel + Leisure why compression socks should always be a part of your airport outfits. Read on to learn more about the benefits of compression socks, and shop her top picks from Amazon's fashion store, where these important travel essentials start at $20. Before becoming a flight attendant, Young was a nurse who would recommend compression socks for patients with circulatory and cardiac issues as they increase blood flow to the heart, which in turn, supports a healthy circulatory system. Now, working as a flight attendant, she says compression socks are 'wonderful' for travelers who want to ease swelling and avoid getting enlarged veins (a.k.a varicose veins); both are common during a flight because the change in air pressure, combined with dehydration and sitting down for long periods of time, leads to blood pooling in your leg veins, according to the Mayo Clinic. Fluids then leave your blood and go into the soft tissue, causing your legs and other parts of your body to swell. Compression socks use pressure on your legs to encourage blood flow, which can reduce swelling in the legs and feet, and in more severe cases, prevent blood clotting. When Young was a nurse, she and her colleagues regularly recommended Jobst compression socks, which range from $26 to $74, but Amazon has comparable picks for less than $20. Keep scrolling to shop the best compression socks ahead of your next flight. These compression socks from CharmKing use controlled pressure to help stimulate blood flow so it doesn't pool into your lower extremities from inactivity on the plane. The stretchy material makes them easy to pull over your legs, and the knee-high length will help provide relief throughout your leg. Young added that it's common to see flight attendants wearing compression socks on flights, and the reviews for this style prove it. In their Amazon review, one flight attendant said these prevent their calves from aching after a long day in the air on their feet. This three-pack of compression socks includes a mix of neutral colors you can pair with any of your airport outfits and are 'very comfortable,' according to a flight attendant. They also said that they reduced their aches and pains. Another one wrote that their legs were 'noticeably less swollen and felt less sore at the end of the day.' These compression socks have earned more than 60,000 five-star ratings, including one from a flight attendant who said that since wearing them, their feet feel better and 'recover faster.' They also have a reinforced heel for extra comfort and to help prevent uncomfortable rubbing in your shoes. Dr. Scholl's compression socks are American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)-approved for promoting good foot health. They're made with mild compression to help encourage blood circulation and have the brand's comfortable Stay-Up Top cuff to prevent the socks from rolling down. You can wear these Aoliks compression socks on the plane and your hikes; they're that versatile. The pressure provided on your legs helps with swelling and achy feet per the brand, which is especially helpful on long days of trekking up trails. One reviewer wears them on every flight, and said their legs no longer throb and they don't have restless leg syndrome. If your feet are prone to sweating, you'll want to throw on these compression socks made from a breathable and comfortable material. One shopper, who's on their feet for up to 15 hours a day working across as many as four flights, said these socks make it so their toes 'don't feel like they're going to pop off like little sausages.' They continued, 'And I can see my ankles. These are miracle socks.' Featuring a mix of nylon and spandex materials, these compression socks have a soft, stretchy feel that'll help keep your feet comfy and less swollen. The bottom comes with a non-slip design for extra stability, and the built-in heel cushion will add a layer of protection from blisters caused by shoes. One flight attendant called these their 'must-haves' for air travel, saying they noticed an immediate difference from the first wear, including their legs not being sore and feet not swollen. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
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Travel + Leisure
30-05-2025
- Health
- Travel + Leisure
Flight Attendants Share 5 Genius Ways to Make the Middle Seat the Comfiest Spot on the Plane
Just because the middle seat may seem like the least desirable spot on the plane (which is why it's often the only one left to book), it doesn't mean it has to be miserable. According to flight attendants, with the right mindset (and a few smart travel essentials), you can turn that dreaded middle seat into a surprisingly comfortable experience. 'I suggest reframing the way you view the middle seat,' flight attendant Aura E. Martinez shared. 'Instead of seeing it as a disadvantage, try to embrace the opportunity for connection.' You never know who you'll end up next to, and even if you're not in the mood to chat, being prepared can make all the difference. That means bringing your own entertainment, staying comfortable, and making the most of your personal space. From noise-canceling headphones and supportive neck pillows to slim portable chargers, these flight attendant-approved picks will help make your next middle seat feel a lot more like an upgrade. Plus, prices start at just $13. Reclaim Your Armrest Space Tip: 'The middle seat gets both armrests—that's the rule,' Karen Young, a Delta flight attendant who's been in the industry for 47 years, said. The middle seat often feels like the wild west of the cabin, where everyone seems to spill into your space. But according to flight attendants, claiming your territory starts with the armrests. 'People overflow and morph into the middle seat,' Young shared. 'Those armrests define your space—don't feel pressured to raise them.' Fellow flight attendant Crista Treat agrees: 'Establish dominance first with the armrests, because those are yours.' A good strategy? Keep your elbows gently anchored and resist the urge to cave to your seatmates' spread. If one of them reclines, Carin, a seasoned flight attendant, suggested, 'Wiggle your elbow into the back edge of the armrest. They'll likely move, and you get your space back." What to pack: EverSnug Travel Blanket Amazon This lightweight, ultra-packable blanket can double as your personal barrier. Carin swears by wrapping yourself 'like swaddling an infant' to avoid armrest disputes. 'You'll likely wake up to find your neighbors have repositioned,' she added. Bonus: This one attaches easily to your carry-on and spares you from those scratchy airline blankets. Get Comfortable Enough to Sleep Tip: "A good neck pillow is key,' Treat suggested. 'Sleeping through half the flight helps you forget you're stuck in the middle.' The best way to make the middle seat disappear? Sleep through it. A supportive neck pillow and an eye mask not only help you drift off faster but also keep your head from bobbing onto your seatmate's shoulder (never a great first impression). What to pack: Cabeau Evolution S3 Neck Pillow Amazon With memory foam construction and seat straps that anchor it in place, this Cabeau neck pillow is a game-changer. 'It comes with a small carry bag where you can put your cell phone, lip gloss, etc, in so you don't need to reach for your bag in the overhead bin,' Martinez shared after dubbing the Cabeau version as her go-to neck pillow. Now, you don't have to rummage through the overhead bin midflight. What to pack: Trtl Travel Pillow Amazon Carin, on the other hand, called Trtl's compact pick her go-to. 'I love the secure closure—it doesn't slide off while you're napping,' she explained. Its sleek, scarf-like design makes it perfect for middle seat naps, offering structured neck support without the bulk. Create a Personal Bubble Tip: 'It's about creating a little cocoon,' Martinez advised. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask can transform your seat into a private zone. The key to surviving the middle seat? Mentally checking out. Layering sound-blocking headphones with a good eye mask signals to your neighbors and your brain that you're off the clock. What to pack: JBL Noise-Canceling Headphones Amazon 'These fold up easily, last for 75 hours, and don't break your heart if you lose them,' Carin said of JBL's top-rated headphones. She added that they're preferred among her crew and way better than 'chasing them around on the dirty aircraft floor.' Plus, she noted the noise-canceling feature is one of her favorite assets and emphasized how effective they are. These headphones are also foldable, so they fit seamlessly into your carry-on. What to pack: Bose QuietComfort Noise-canceling Headphones Amazon Looking to invest in real peace and quiet? Martinez recommends this premium pair from Bose. 'They're a game changer in tight spaces,' she said, allowing you to zone out even when you're sandwiched between two strangers. What to pack: Mzoo Sleep Mask Amazon This memory foam blackout eye mask has air holes for breathability and an adjustable strap to fit every head. The best part? It contours to your eyes, so there's no pressure on your lids while you nap, even in the dreaded middle. Keep Your Circulation Flowing Tip: 'A foldable seat cushion improves circulation on long flights,' Martinez shared. Chiming in, Carin added, 'Compression sleeves are a must for anything over four hours.' Middle seats often mean less freedom to stretch, so it's extra important to keep your blood flowing. A supportive seat cushion can ease pressure points, while compression socks and sleeves help fend off swelling and fatigue. What to pack: ComfiLife Ergo-gel Travel Seat Cushion Amazon Say goodbye to numb legs. This traveler-loved cushion's gel grid relieves pressure and keeps things cool. 'I used this on two 8-hour flights,' one Amazon reviewer said, 'and it kept my sciatic pain from flaring up.' What to pack: Zensah Compression Sleeves Amazon Carin said she won't board a long-haul flight without Zensah's compression sleeves. 'They make a huge difference for circulation and fatigue,' she mentioned. Slide them on before takeoff and keep your legs feeling light, even after hours in the air. Stay Self-sufficient Tip: 'Bring your own water and snacks so you don't have to bug the aisle person,' Treat recommended. Being in the middle often means waiting until the beverage cart rolls by—or worse, asking your seatmate to get up. Avoid the awkwardness by having everything you need within reach. What to pack: Yctmall Collapsible Water Bottle Amazon This space-saving travel bottle folds down flat when empty and is lightweight enough to stash in any bag. Fill it up post-security and stay hydrated without shelling out for overpriced airport drinks. What to pack: Charmast Portable Charger Amazon With Charmast's best-selling portable charger, an outlet war between you and your seatmates isn't necessary. It works with all smartphones and saves you from digging around for cords. It's fast, reliable, and ideal for recharging on the go. Bring entertainment Tip: 'Just in case the entertainment system doesn't work, it's always best to be prepared,' Martinez said. There's nothing worse than settling into your middle seat only to find the in-flight screen frozen or, worse, not there at all. To avoid relying on glitchy airline tech, seasoned flight attendants recommend loading up your own content in advance. Whether you're bingeing a new series or catching up on your book list, coming equipped with your own screen can turn a frustrating flight into a productive or relaxing one. What to pack: Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Amazon Amazon's popular Kindle e-reader is slim, lightweight, and built for battery longevity, lasting up to 10 weeks on a single charge. The glare-free screen feels like real paper (even in direct sunlight), and it won't strain your eyes during a long haul. Load it up with travel guides, thrillers, or that beach read you've been meaning to finish—no Wi-Fi required. What to pack: Amazon Fire HD 10 Tablet Amazon This versatile Amazon Fire tablet has a 13-hour battery life, a vibrant 10-inch screen, and access to all your streaming apps—from Netflix to Prime Video. Download your shows before boarding, and you're set, even if the seatback screen lets you down. It also doubles as an entertainment hub for your next hotel night, too. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
L'Orient-Le Jour
07-05-2025
- Business
- L'Orient-Le Jour
Why Saudi Arabia isn't driving up oil prices
In a statement released Sunday after a virtual meeting of eight OPEC+ members, the expanded alliance of oil-exporting countries said it would increase its total daily output by 411,000 barrels. The number is a significant jump from the 137,000-barrel increase outlined in the initial plan released in March, which was set to take effect in news sent a jolt through global financial markets, marking a notable shift in OPEC+ policy. For years, Saudi Arabia, the group's de facto leader, has favored limited production to push prices upward. Now, Riyadh appears to be changing course.'I don't think anyone was expecting such an increase,' said Karen Young, a senior research scholar on energy policy at Columbia the announcement, the price of Brent crude, the global benchmark, fell 4.6 percent to $58 a barrel, while...
