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Yahoo
3 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Voices from the Arab press: Trump's first 100 days in office
A weekly selection of opinions and analyses from the Arab media around the world. Asharq al-Awsat, London, May 25 For more stories from The Media Line go to In late April and early May, I was visiting the US. It was the 100th day since Donald Trump's inauguration as president of the US. Traditionally a symbolic milestone, this occasion carried far more weight than usual – for the president himself, his supporters, his critics, the American media, and much of the world. The reason was simple: the sheer volume of executive orders Trump had signed, the sweeping ambitions he laid out, and the grandiose language he employed to do so. Among the more outlandish goals he floated were making Canada the 51st state, annexing Greenland, taking control of the Panama Canal, turning Gaza into a Riviera-style tourist haven, restricting foreign nationals, deporting undocumented immigrants, attacking the ideological bent of universities, dismantling government institutions, slashing federal budgets, and downsizing various bureaucracies. But perhaps the most consequential element of Trump's early presidency has been his aggressive approach to trade policy. He imposed tariffs on imported goods from countries considered close allies, including Canada and Mexico – America's partners in long-standing economic agreements – as well as from Western European nations. The most significant tariffs, however, targeted goods from China, the largest exporter to the US. These tariffs were framed as tools to boost US government revenue, narrow the trade deficit, increase domestic manufacturing, and create jobs. The result was a profound shock to the global economy, the likes of which had not been seen in recent memory. Uncertainty spread rapidly, investments dried up, and the financial markets – especially in the US – suffered, marked by volatile swings in stocks, bonds, currencies, oil, gold, and other commodities. The American economy slipped into recession during the first quarter of the year. A question now dominates discussions among citizens, analysts, and policy-makers both inside and outside the US: Why did Trump enact such measures, and why did he do so in such unusually blunt, confrontational language, rarely seen in American diplomacy? Some observers attribute this to Trump's personality – an approach shaped by years in real estate, where asking for the moon is a tactic to secure what one truly wants. Others argue that he is acting strategically, with a small group of conservative Republicans, to pursue clearly defined short- and long-term objectives. Still others warn that Trump and his loyalist faction are seeking to reshape America into a quasi-authoritarian state – one that maintains democratic appearances, such as elections, a legislature, and courts, but is guided by centralized power. The slogan that fueled Trump's campaign – 'Make America Great Again' – continues to guide his administration's rhetoric and priorities. There is no denying that America remains the world's dominant superpower. Its economy accounts for roughly a quarter of global GDP, and the dollar serves as the backbone of international financial transactions. Wall Street is the central node of the global financial system. American universities, research institutions, and technological leadership in fields like artificial intelligence remain unrivaled. Militarily, the US has no true peer. It possesses the most advanced offensive and defensive systems, operates around 800 military installations worldwide, and maintains a constant global presence with its fleets of warships and aircraft carriers. Yet despite this, Trump and much of the Republican Party continue to frame their mission as one of restoring lost greatness. Anyone familiar with America four decades ago can attest to the changes it has undergone – shifts that are relative in nature but undeniable. America's infrastructure, in many areas, has deteriorated compared to both its own past and other nations' present. Homelessness is on the rise. But perhaps more striking is the cultural shift: a diminishing work ethic and a waning appetite for skilled trades and manual labor. Internationally, the US now faces growing industrial and technological competition from countries once considered peripheral – China,India, Indonesia, Mexico, and Brazil. For now, the challenge remains economic rather than military or political, but it could evolve. The US once contained Japan's rise in the 1980s, but China and India present a very different scale of threat. The most pressing question is whether Trump can truly reverse these domestic and global tides. Or is the task too vast, too complex, too deeply embedded in broader structural forces? Evidence suggests the latter. Consider, for example, the delicate balance between military spending and civilian investment. A nation cannot endlessly expand its defense budget without undermining infrastructure, education, healthcare, and innovation. Likewise, bringing manufacturing back to American soil would require a robust labor force – particularly in skilled and semiskilled sectors – which the US currently lacks. Labor in America costs roughly twice as much as in many other countries, and as growth accelerates, so will demand and, with it, wages. The logical solution is to increase immigration, but not from the European sources some conservatives idealize. In reality, the labor will have to come from Latin America, Africa, and Asia – regions that Trump's base is often vocally hostile toward. Immigration policy, therefore, stands at the heart of the contradiction. If domestic opposition to Trump's agenda gains traction, it could erode the coalition that brought him to power. His political alliance, which includes Evangelical Christians, hardline nationalists, and economic conservatives, is already strained. Take energy, for example: Trump promises to cut gas prices by 40% while simultaneously ramping up domestic production, including from costly oil and gas sources – two goals at odds with each other. Still, Trump has shown a knack for pragmatism and political agility. We saw this in his handling of China trade policy, where he pivoted multiple times to secure perceived wins. May brought several achievements he could claim – domestically, a reduction in drug prices, a critical issue for many Americans; internationally, preliminary efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict. His trip to Saudi Arabia and the Gulf states, along with the agreements signed, further elevated his status at home and abroad. Yet from what I observed of America's infrastructure during my visit, it seems unlikely the country can regain its former domestic stature – at least not without sacrificing part of its expansive military footprint. Trying to rewind the clock on multiple fronts at once is an almost impossible endeavor. – Ibrahim Abdulaziz Al-Muhanna Al-Masry Al-Youm, Egypt, May 30 The situation in Gaza and the condition of its people have descended into the unimaginable. Destruction blankets the landscape; the dead, wounded, starving, and dehydrated are everywhere, while the political world looks on in silence and the humanitarian world cries out in anguish alongside those trapped in this catastrophe. The Israeli occupation forces continue their campaign of devastation with impunity, unfazed by the growing chorus of condemnation from within Israeli society and from Jewish communities around the world which reject these violations of human rights. As the Israeli military escalates its assault onGaza, more than 100,000 Palestinians have been forcibly displaced into central Gaza City, fleeing the bombardment in the northern parts of the strip. Once the cultural and economic heart of Palestinian life, Gaza City has been reduced to a chaotic sprawl of rubble and makeshift tents, where people now live without access to even the most basic necessities, surrounded by mountains of debris and despair. In the midst of cries of hunger, thirst, and sickness, the specter of death looms over tens of thousands – especially children – as Israel's relentless bombing campaign continues unabated. In recent days alone, more than 1,000 Palestinians, the majority of them women and children, have been killed by airstrikes and artillery barrages. The overall death toll, not counting the thousands still buried beneath the rubble, now exceeds 53,000 in what has become a 20-month campaign of extermination. Reports from non-Arab media outlets have documented harrowing scenes of this ongoing tragedy, as Israel's intensified aggression has coincided with an ongoing blockade of desperately needed humanitarian aid. According to these accounts, every street is crowded with displaced people living among garbage heaps and pools of sewage, swarming with flies and mosquitoes. There is no clean water. No food. Nothing. Hunger gnaws at the population, and still, no meaningful assistance is reaching them. UN experts had long warned of an imminent famine engulfing the entire Gaza Strip, with UN food warehouses nearly depleted. Despite the dire circumstances, humanitarian organizations have managed to keep some community kitchens running, producing around 300,000 meals a day. Under mounting international pressure, Israel has recently permitted limited aid to trickle into Gaza following a total blockade imposed in March. But theUnited Nations continues to report that Israel is obstructing the entry of aid and that airstrikes persist even as supplies are being distributed. In the words of Secretary-General António Guterres, what has entered Gaza so far is 'only a teaspoon,' when what is needed is a deluge. The suffering is especially acute for the sick and wounded, with most hospitals in northern Gaza bombed out of operation, and the few remaining ones overwhelmed and unable to cope. This cannot be described as war; it is, by every measure, a genocide of civilians, carried out under the justification that Hamas is embedded among the population. Gaza is gasping its final breaths, and its people – joined by those of us who stand in solidarity – are left to say what the world's silence has made clear: 'No one cares if we all die. This is a world built on deception and hypocrisy, one that calls itself civilized and humane but chooses to see with only one eye.' – The Rev. Rafic Greiche, head, Egyptian Coptic Church press office Al-Ittihad, UAE, May 31 Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's decision to appoint Maj.-Gen. David Zini as the new head of the Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency), in direct defiance of the state-attorney's ruling barring him from the role, signals a looming confrontation between Israel's political-military establishment and its judiciary. This marks a new escalation in the ongoing power struggle among Israel's key institutions – revolving around Netanyahu himself, who seeks to consolidate power and impose a singular national direction under his leadership. The clash between the judiciary, the government, and Netanyahu remains unresolved, largely due to the prime minister's combative style and long-standing expertise in maneuvering around institutional restraints, blocking legislation that might limit his authority, and reshuffling priorities within his own cabinet. In response, ministers loyal to Netanyahu have adopted a clear, unified stance to neutralize any effort by the attorney-general to intervene – not only in matters of military appointments, particularly in the intelligence services, but also in the broader push by Netanyahu to politicize the judiciary. The prime minister has now escalated the confrontation to the military level, where he has already managed to suppress dissent within the defense establishment. Those who oppose his directives are either removed or pushed to resign, forcing key figures in the military to capitulate. This capitulation, however, has stirred significant unease among senior Israeli commanders, many of whom have aligned with broader protest and resistance movements in society, reinforcing speculation that the political and military balance of power may soon shift. At the center of this turmoil isGaza – its devastation, and how the war might end. Former military officials warn that Netanyahu's style of governance is not only unsustainable but dangerously destabilizing and could drive Israel toward catastrophe. Against this backdrop, the notion of ousting Netanyahu or reshaping the government has become increasingly central, particularly with parliamentary elections approaching. Netanyahu, however, sees this as an opportunity to intensify his efforts, projecting strength to demonstrate his control over Israel's direction. He argues that his trial should not proceed amid such volatility and maintains that unresolved security and political decisions – many of which remain flash points of disagreement – should be handled exclusively under his authority. Netanyahu is working to block alternative strategies from emerging at both the political and security levels, having successfully positioned himself as the indispensable figure in Israeli governance. He refuses to compromise his methods or present a conciliatory vision, claiming unapologetically that he alone is fit to lead. Meanwhile, President Isaac Herzog has failed to offer meaningful guidance or foster consensus for a national dialogue, underscoring the depth of Israel's internal divisions. These tensions are unlikely to ease before the elections, especially as Netanyahu cements his hold over the current ruling coalition. After capitulating to nearly all demands from Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, Netanyahu has ensured the coalition's continued stability. The opposition, led by Yair Lapid, remains fragmented and weak, lacking a unified platform. Neither Lapid nor Benny Gantz, both contenders for leadership, currently enjoys significant public support. Netanyahu continues to outmaneuver them all, sidelining rivals and consolidating control. For now, no credible challenge has emerged to his war management, even though deep questions persist over Israel's long-term objectives in Gaza. Military operations will soon give way to a more politically sensitive phase: who will govern Gaza, how Hamas will be dismantled, and what political or security framework Israel intends to impose. These unresolved issues have exposed friction within the IDF general staff over priorities and roles, fueling a sustained but quiet power struggle between the military and political echelons. Until these matters are clarified, Netanyahu remains the primary political beneficiary, with opinion polls continuing to favor him. One development that should not be overlooked is the US administration's recent reengagement with Israel's domestic political scene. Washington has begun establishing lines of communication not only with former prime minister Naftali Bennett but also with Lapid and Gantz, signaling a readiness to reassess its options should a coalition realignment become necessary. Netanyahu is acutely aware of these moves and remains determined to maintain a firm grip on power, adapting his tactics while working relentlessly to bring all internal factions under his control. – Tarek Fahmy Al-Watan, Saudi Arabia, May 27 The world is seething – angry, enraged, oppressed, provoked, and helpless – in the face of the horrors unfolding in the Gaza Strip. And yet, it seems resigned to a fate authored by the minds of brutal extremists and enabled by the Israeli war machine. Resigned, perhaps, because the US and other Western powers have not objected to Israel's warfare. This warfare uses advanced weaponry, deep-penetration bombs, and artificial intelligence not to fight terrorism, but to uproot Palestinians from their homes, level Gaza's buildings, hospitals, schools, and mosques, reduce its heritage to rubble, and erase any trace of its people's history, presence, or rights to the land. Nearly 20 months into the war, Israel articulates its objectives openly and carries them out with daily massacres – many targeting women and children. On Saturday, May 24, pediatrician Alaa Al-Najjar arrived at work at the Nasser Medical Complex in Khan Yunis. Minutes later, the bodies of nine of her children were delivered to the same facility, killed by an Israeli missile. Her husband and 10th child were injured. This is but one example of how entire families have been erased. Nearly two million Gazans are now corralled into a tiny enclave in the Strip's southwest corner – effectively a concentration camp – before being killed or deported. Israeli officials do not shy away from invoking the term 'Final Solution,' echoing the Nazi terminology once used to exterminate Jews. It is no longer a secret: The plan is to annihilate the people of Gaza, to erase it from the map of Palestine. Major world powers have failed to act despite mounting evidence of a campaign that bears the hallmarks of genocide – signs they refuse to acknowledge even now. Washington and its allies have endorsed Israel's 'right to self-defense,' armed it with the world's deadliest weapons, and watched them rain down on civilians under the familiar justification that Hamas and other militants were hiding among the population. These same allies have shielded Israel at the UN Security Council and theInternational Court of Justice. When South Africa brought a genocide case against Israel, the US responded with hostility. President Donald Trump even orchestrated a smear campaign against South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, promoting a doctored video that falsely accused South Africa of committing atrocities against white farmers. When the footage was later traced to the Congo, the White House offered no correction, let alone an apology. What mattered was silencing the South African leader – truth be damned. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his inner circle ran circles around the previous American administration, exploiting its loyalty and sabotaging every proposal for postwar planning. Israel could not imagine an end to this war, with Gazans still inhabiting Gaza. Days into his presidency, Trump eagerly adopted a plan to displace Gaza's population, hailing it as a natural outcome of Israel's gains. Though he tempered his rhetoric after pushback from Arab allies, he never truly let the idea go. To bolster Trump's real estate vision for Gaza, Israeli forces are now methodically demolishing every standing structure. In his latest statements, Netanyahu emphasized his intention to continue controlling the entire Strip 'until the displacement of its residents in accordance with Trump's plan,' which, in truth, is wholly Israeli in origin. Netanyahu has also dismissed European criticism with characteristic disdain – criticism over both military conduct and Israel's blockade of humanitarian aid as famine begins to claim children and the elderly. While Germany continues to support Israel unflinchingly, other allies – Britain, France, Canada, and to a lesser extent Belgium – have begun to break their silence. London suspended trade talks and sanctioned settler-linked individuals. Paris called for revisiting the EU-Israel partnership, and all three floated recognition of a Palestinian state. But while these gestures mark a rhetorical shift, they fall far short of halting military support, and thus remain toothless in the face of a bloodthirsty war machine. After two Israeli Embassy staffers were killed in Washington, DC, by a man shouting 'Free Palestine,' Israel's propaganda apparatus seized the moment, accusing Europe of fueling antisemitism. Netanyahu equated the phrase 'Free Palestine' with the Nazi chant 'Heil Hitler.' Despite reports of friction between Netanyahu and Trump, and rumors of US pressure to secure a ceasefire and prisoner deal, the Israeli delegation walked away from Doha negotiations with nothing to show. No sign of American pressure followed. Instead, after a Trump-Netanyahu phone call, the Prime Minister's Office reported that the US president reaffirmed his support for 'securing the release of all hostages and the elimination of Hamas' – a clear signal that he rejected European objections and was doing nothing to restrain Israel. – Abdulwahab Badrakhan Translated by Asaf Zilberfarb. All assertions, opinions, facts, and information presented in these articles are the sole responsibility of their respective authors and are not necessarily those of The Media Line, which assumes no responsibility for their content.
New York Post
01-05-2025
- Entertainment
- New York Post
The new Four Seasons Cabo del Sol resort is a secluded Mexican paradise
In 1535, Hernán Cortés established the first Spanish settlement at Cabo San Lucas, on Mexico's Baja peninsula. In the 1960s, Hollywood stars like Charlie Chaplin and John Wayne flocked to the then-remote area as an escape from the limelight. Drawn by its year-round sunny climate, they sought its promise of la buena vida — the good life — a blend of relaxation and adventure. The Four Seasons Resort and Residences Cabo San Lucas at Cabo Del Sol is a new stunning resort in this now-famous destination, offering visitors the chance to indulge in their own version of la buena vida. The secluded paradise sits within the exclusive community of Cabo del Sol, midway along the corridor between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, and is inspired by both the charming Riviera-style villages of Europe and the magical towns of Mexico, known as pueblos mágicos. Embodying the country's deep cultural richness, art, food and traditions, the Four Seasons' latest Los Cabos property deftly combines luxury with the authentic spirit of Mexico. 3 The destination lures guest with its sparkling pools and its hacienda-style set up of villas, estates and guest houses. Courtesy of Joe Thomas for Four Seasons Resort and Residences Cabo San Lucas Advertisement The heart of the resort is La Casona — a nontraditional lobby and central gathering space. Upon check-in, guests are invited to order a spicy margarita crafted with house-flavored mezcal from La Casona Bar, settle into a plush sofa under the wall-sized local art and make themselves at home while gazing upon the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The resort's design mirrors the elegance of a hacienda-style village, with 96 spacious guest rooms and suites, alongside 61 residences, villas and estates. Every room offers breathtaking views of the Sea of Cortez, but the oceanfront casitas take things a step further, with their private plunge pools, outdoor showers and easy access to the property's pools and the ocean beyond. Spread across a sprawling 1,800-acre property, the accommodations combine modern luxury with traditional Mexican charm. 3 Perched on the Baja peninsula, Palmerio restaurant serves Mediterranean-inspired meals — and stunning ocean views. Courtesy of Four Seasons Resort and Residences Cabo San Lucas As for the outdoor spaces: A palm-lined, family-friendly pool takes center stage, offering a variety of activities to keep everyone entertained beyond the kid's club. Across the lawn, a line of lounge chairs dot the small beach, providing an illusion of seclusion as you face the water. The adults-only infinity pool, meanwhile, has the professional sybarites covered with uninterrupted ocean views and unlimited service. Here, the attentive staff ensures every need is met, whether it's a refreshing horchata popsicle, a piña colada shot or binoculars for a spontaneous whale-watching experience from your poolside cabana. Advertisement Culinary excellence is also a cornerstone of the Cabo Del Sol experience, with world-class dining options curated by renowned, contemporary-Latin chef Richard Sandoval. The beachfront Coraluz offers a childhood favorite of Sandoval's — guacamole adorned with beef cicerones, while Palmerio serves Mediterranean-inspired dishes like black ink pasta with lobster. Sandoval's Cayao blends Japanese and Peruvian cuisine, giving local seafood and produce an elevated twist with familiar Mexican ingredients. (Think: Japanese-inspired scallop ceviche.) At sunset, the place to be is Sora rooftop bar, where el sol sets on the fireside couches and the must-haves include the soft-shell crab and lobster tacos. 3 Exquisite culinary creations at the property are overseen by chef Richard Sandoval. Courtesy of Four Seasons Resort and Residences Cabo San Lucas Active types will find plenty to do at the resort's Baja 360° Adventure Center, from whale watching at the iconic granitic rock formation, El Arco, to snorkeling, free diving and world-class golfing at the Cabo Del Sol course. For those seeking rejuvenation, the resort's Tierra Mar spa offers holistic treatments inspired by the Kumiai indigenous people of Baja. Set in a lush tropical sanctuary, the spa offers both indoor and outdoor treatments, including a stretching massage with a traditional woven scarf. Advertisement The heart of the property is La Plaza, an outdoor gathering area where guests can stroll through Mercado (the village's mini marketplace) for a morning pastry or midday ice cream, pop into Mandala for authentic fashion and jewelry, and peruse El Taller Artisan Studio, where local crafts and artwork are on display and guests are invited to create their own art under the tutelage of resident artists. It's an opportunity to connect with the culture in a meaningful way through lasting memories and personal mementos. While time at the resort doesn't stand still, it stretches out — much like the vibrant bands of color that light up the Baja sky. Rooms from $1,200 per night at The Four Seasons Cabo San Lucas
Sydney Morning Herald
24-04-2025
- Business
- Sydney Morning Herald
The cyclone that took the wind out of Peter Dutton's sails
There was dread in Labor's huddled ranks that the weeks of forced hesitation would erode Labor's chances of gaining sorely needed lift-off from the interest-rate reduction announced by the Reserve Bank in mid-February. Worse, the postponement meant the government would have to host a budget it did not want to deliver. It could only herald a sea of red running into the hazy distance, guaranteeing the taunt that Labor can't handle the economy. Instead, the forced interregnum allowed weeks for a witch's brew to begin bubbling – one that would turn close to toxic for the surging Dutton. Predominant among the ingredients was Donald Trump. It is strange now to recall that Trump's latest elevation to the US presidency at the start of this year was thought, at least by some conservatives, to bestow a sort of blessing upon Dutton and his agenda. The stance against 'woke' culture, the plan to take an axe to the public service, the talk of deporting dual citizens; these, it was said quietly, blended handily with the sort of approach that had reunited Trump with the world's most powerful job. Dutton got so carried away that he spoke of Trump as 'shrewd' after the president proposed turning the ruins of war-shredded Gaza into a Riviera-style Middle Eastern playground. It's worth recalling Dutton's words of the time, for you will never hear them from any sensible mouth again: 'People who dismiss President Trump and say that he's not serious or whatever derogatory comments they want to make, I just think it defies the reality of the gravitas he brings to the situation.' Time passed, Trump's name became more poisonous daily, and Dutton, as the campaign finally got under way and Trump blew up the world's trading and economic systems, was hoist with his own petard. We don't need to examine this in much greater detail. It has already become the stuff of numerous columns. Meanwhile, the budget so feared by shaky Labor strategists turned out to be not much more than a ho-hum event, with – surprise, surprise – slim tax cuts getting the headlines. Much of it was forgotten in days. Any hope Dutton might have had in gaining traction with his budget-in-reply – resting on that old standby, tax relief on fuel for a year – stalled when Albanese called the election the following morning. The Liberal campaign was caught in neutral. Mysteriously, it took Dutton a whole week to find himself in proximity to a petrol bowser, where he might have been able to get pedalling by spruiking his promise to reduce fuel prices by 25¢ a litre for a year. When he finally got to the fuel pumps, the novelty wore off as fast as the campaign was sprinting away from him. If luck's a fortune in politics, momentum is the holy grail in election campaigns. After the Cyclone Alfred pause and the subsequent later date for the election gave time for the Trump dump to begin turning voters sour on the Liberals, according to polls and bookies, Dutton desperately needed to find momentum from somewhere. Momentum in a five-week campaign is always in short supply. Those with memories recalled Malcolm Fraser's decision to briefly suspend campaigning in 1983 after the Ash Wednesday bushfires. He never regained whatever momentum he might have had, and soon Bob Hawke was prime minister. Three weeks after Albanese and Dutton began touring the nation in their compulsory high-vis jackets, Easter arrived, clogging the roads with families escaping hearth, home and electioneering doorknockers. Loading The campaign was suspended to allow the leaders to prove their God-fearing credentials. By Easter Monday, with combat renewed, Dutton proved mad keen to regain momentum by announcing that crime was so bad down south, Victorians were afraid to go to the shops. And then word came that the Pope had ended his earthly duties. Albanese, a Catholic of Italian heritage, was off to Mass on Tuesday morning, announcing, with Dutton's concurrence, that the campaign should pause for the day. Dutton, who has said he 'identifies' with the Catholic Church, also attended Mass., went to Mass too. Loading The mourning period gave them time to prepare for the evening's third televised debate of the campaign. Two of the three journalists asking the questions thought they detected a pulse – Dutton and Albanese briefly abandoned their recitations of talking points to call each other liars – and gave the event, possibly out of pity, to Dutton. Our astute political editor, David Crowe, called it a draw, politely avoiding scoring it nil-all.
The Age
24-04-2025
- Business
- The Age
The cyclone that took the wind out of Peter Dutton's sails
There was dread in Labor's huddled ranks that the weeks of forced hesitation would erode Labor's chances of gaining sorely needed lift-off from the interest-rate reduction announced by the Reserve Bank in mid-February. Worse, the postponement meant the government would have to host a budget it did not want to deliver. It could only herald a sea of red running into the hazy distance, guaranteeing the taunt that Labor can't handle the economy. Instead, the forced interregnum allowed weeks for a witch's brew to begin bubbling – one that would turn close to toxic for the surging Dutton. Predominant among the ingredients was Donald Trump. It is strange now to recall that Trump's latest elevation to the US presidency at the start of this year was thought, at least by some conservatives, to bestow a sort of blessing upon Dutton and his agenda. The stance against 'woke' culture, the plan to take an axe to the public service, the talk of deporting dual citizens; these, it was said quietly, blended handily with the sort of approach that had reunited Trump with the world's most powerful job. Dutton got so carried away that he spoke of Trump as 'shrewd' after the president proposed turning the ruins of war-shredded Gaza into a Riviera-style Middle Eastern playground. It's worth recalling Dutton's words of the time, for you will never hear them from any sensible mouth again: 'People who dismiss President Trump and say that he's not serious or whatever derogatory comments they want to make, I just think it defies the reality of the gravitas he brings to the situation.' Time passed, Trump's name became more poisonous daily, and Dutton, as the campaign finally got under way and Trump blew up the world's trading and economic systems, was hoist with his own petard. We don't need to examine this in much greater detail. It has already become the stuff of numerous columns. Meanwhile, the budget so feared by shaky Labor strategists turned out to be not much more than a ho-hum event, with – surprise, surprise – slim tax cuts getting the headlines. Much of it was forgotten in days. Any hope Dutton might have had in gaining traction with his budget-in-reply – resting on that old standby, tax relief on fuel for a year – stalled when Albanese called the election the following morning. The Liberal campaign was caught in neutral. Mysteriously, it took Dutton a whole week to find himself in proximity to a petrol bowser, where he might have been able to get pedalling by spruiking his promise to reduce fuel prices by 25¢ a litre for a year. When he finally got to the fuel pumps, the novelty wore off as fast as the campaign was sprinting away from him. If luck's a fortune in politics, momentum is the holy grail in election campaigns. After the Cyclone Alfred pause and the subsequent later date for the election gave time for the Trump dump to begin turning voters sour on the Liberals, according to polls and bookies, Dutton desperately needed to find momentum from somewhere. Momentum in a five-week campaign is always in short supply. Those with memories recalled Malcolm Fraser's decision to briefly suspend campaigning in 1983 after the Ash Wednesday bushfires. He never regained whatever momentum he might have had, and soon Bob Hawke was prime minister. Three weeks after Albanese and Dutton began touring the nation in their compulsory high-vis jackets, Easter arrived, clogging the roads with families escaping hearth, home and electioneering doorknockers. Loading The campaign was suspended to allow the leaders to prove their God-fearing credentials. By Easter Monday, with combat renewed, Dutton proved mad keen to regain momentum by announcing that crime was so bad down south, Victorians were afraid to go to the shops. And then word came that the Pope had ended his earthly duties. Albanese, a Catholic of Italian heritage, was off to Mass on Tuesday morning, announcing, with Dutton's concurrence, that the campaign should pause for the day. Dutton, who has said he 'identifies' with the Catholic Church, also attended Mass., went to Mass too. Loading The mourning period gave them time to prepare for the evening's third televised debate of the campaign. Two of the three journalists asking the questions thought they detected a pulse – Dutton and Albanese briefly abandoned their recitations of talking points to call each other liars – and gave the event, possibly out of pity, to Dutton. Our astute political editor, David Crowe, called it a draw, politely avoiding scoring it nil-all.
Yahoo
16-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Vegas Pool Parties Have Become the Ultimate Luxury Experience—Here's Why
The sun was high, the champagne was flowing, and Tiësto was on the decks. I was dancing with half a dozen friends in our VIP villa's private pool at LIV Beach, the latest addition to Las Vegas' elite dayclub scene, watching the crowd go wild below as the beat dropped. Pool parties have long been a staple of Vegas entertainment, dating back to iconic events like Rehab at the Hard Rock in the early 2000s. But today's Vegas pool scene in 2025 has evolved into something entirely different—dramatically more luxurious, more extravagant, and infinitely more exclusive. Sure, the casinos are still buzzing, and the nightclubs still pack in crowds, but the real epicenter of luxury and excess has undeniably shifted poolside. Resorts are investing millions into sophisticated daylife experiences with private villas, European-inspired terraces, celebrity DJs, and ultra-lavish bottle service that now rivals, or even surpasses, Vegas' legendary nightlife. From Fontainebleau's Riviera-style Oasis Pool Deck to Encore Beach Club's glamorous daytime scene, the hottest reservations in town aren't for late-night tables anymore—they're for poolside VIP cabanas stocked with chilled Veuve Clicquot and endless sunshine. Here's how to experience the most exclusive side of Sin City, where the pool is the main event, and the party doesn't stop when the sun sets. Pool party season in Las Vegas typically kicks off in early March, but the real energy ignites around early April, hitting its peak between Memorial Day and Labor Day. This prime period runs through late September, and many resorts extend their season into October with heated pools and special events. Plan your visit between April and August for optimal energy and big-name DJs. Choosing where to stay in Vegas sets the tone for your entire trip, especially if you're here for the city's iconic pool parties. In a city overflowing with luxury accommodations, these three hotels stand apart, offering stunning suites, world-class service, and some of the most exclusive pool experiences you'll find anywhere on the Strip. Opened in late 2023, Fontainebleau Las Vegas is the north Strip's most glamorous debutante. With a price tag of $3.7 billion, every inch of this hotel screams extravagance. Guest rooms feature velvet furnishings, intuitive smart-room tech, and marble-clad bathrooms with oversized soaking tubs perfect for a late-night soak after a day in the sun. But the standout here is its 25-acre Oasis Pool Deck, designed to mimic the cliffside terraces of Antibes in the French Riviera. Imagine multi-tiered infinity pools, VIP villas, chic European-style cabanas draped in crisp white linen, and personal butlers at your beck and call. LIV Beach is the high-energy dayclub within Fontainebleau's Oasis Pool Deck, where world-class DJs spin on weekends in season. Admission is primarily through the guest list, though reserving a VIP cabana, daybed, or private pool villa (like the one I was in) guarantees entry and an upgraded experience. Each reservation includes premium bottle service, with minimum buy-ins varying based on the DJ and event. Whether you're dancing in the water or sipping champagne from a shaded cabana, this is where Vegas' daylife reaches peak luxury. The Bellagio Resort is timeless—its fountain show is still an iconic Vegas image—but its recent upgrades have kept it fresh and irresistibly luxurious. Rooms are newly renovated, sophisticated yet comfortable, boasting plush bedding, Italian marble bathrooms, and intuitive touchpad controls for lighting and drapes. The Bellagio's pool area offers serene Mediterranean elegance. Five distinct pools are tucked within lush gardens filled with citrus trees and blooming flowers. There's an atmosphere of refined exclusivity—perfect if you prefer relaxation over revelry. For after-hours sophistication, The Vault, a hidden speakeasy-style lounge, serves rare spirits and crafted cocktails, adding to the hotel's exclusive allure. With sprawling Italian-inspired suites—among Vegas' largest—complete with sunken living rooms and elegant marble baths, The Venetian and Palazzo offer the feeling of luxurious private residences. Their real draw is the Canyon Ranch spa-adjacent pool deck, a calm, ultra-exclusive escape with heated infinity pools, private cabanas, and attentive personal butlers. Guests staying here can elevate their experience further by securing access to the Prestige Club Lounge, which features complimentary afternoon teas, premium cocktails, and terrace views over the glittering Strip—ideal for sunset viewing before your evening begins. Venues like Encore Beach Club and Fontainebleau's LIV Beach aren't just popular—they're where A-listers regularly spend their weekends. Encore Beach Club at Wynn remains one of Vegas' most elite dayclub destinations, consistently attracting top DJs like Kygo and The Chainsmokers. Its lively atmosphere is perfect for dancing in the sunshine, with private cabanas, luxurious daybeds, and an impeccably stylish crowd. Stars like Kendall Jenner, Justin Bieber, Adele, and Leonardo DiCaprio frequently reserve VIP sections, where chilled Dom Pérignon bottles arrive with unmatched discretion. But when the sun goes down, the party doesn't stop—it just moves indoors. LIV Nightclub at Fontainebleau has quickly become the late-night counterpart to its daytime scene, drawing celebrity guests, top-tier DJs, and the kind of high-energy, champagne-fueled revelry that defines Vegas nightlife. On any given night, you might find yourself dancing under neon lights while Peggy Gou, Calvin Harris, or Diplo spins from the booth. Whether you want to be seen—or disappear into the VIP lounge—LIV is where Vegas' most exclusive after-hours moments unfold. The Vegas dining scene is as vibrant as its day life, boasting spots worth traveling for. The smoked salmon towers at Sadelle's, adjacent to The Bellagio's ever-changing Conservancy & Botanical Gardens, are legendary. They are piled impossibly high and sliced tableside. Pair these with house-made cream cheese, warm, hand-rolled bagels, and an atmosphere reminiscent of a sophisticated New York brunch scene. Book the garden table for a special experience. At The Cosmopolitan, LPM delivers flawless French Mediterranean fare and an effortlessly chic ambiance—complete with live music on select evenings and outdoor terrace seating overlooking the Strip. Caspian's Cocktails & Caviar in Caesar's Palace brings unmatched decadence to the Strip. It serves luxurious caviar flights alongside innovative cocktails in a setting oozing old-school glamour. Also at Caesars Palace, Hell's Kitchen brings Gordon Ramsay's fiery television show to life. Signature dishes like Beef Wellington and sticky toffee pudding immerse you in Ramsay's culinary drama. Drawing inspiration from Miami nightlife, Papi Steakhouse at The Fontainebleau brings vibrant energy to Vegas dining. The party-like atmosphere includes live DJs, flamboyant champagne presentations, and steaks seasoned and seared tableside. Mott 32 in the Palazzo at the Venetian sets upscale Chinese cuisine standards. Their famous 48-hour pre-ordered Peking duck is a must, but their vegan soup dumplings are equally unforgettable—delicate and flavorful. Las Vegas entertainment remains world-class, even as its daytime scene steals the spotlight. At The Sphere, U2's groundbreaking residency has completely redefined live performance, offering immersive, wraparound visuals and 4D sound that must be experienced to be believed. The venue itself is an engineering marvel, boasting the largest spherical screen on the planet, transforming concerts into a sensory overload unlike anything you've witnessed before. If you don't want to commit to a full concert, check out Darren Aronofsky's Postcard from Earth, an awe-inspiring cinematic experience exclusive to The Sphere. This immersive film takes viewers on a breathtaking visual journey around the globe, using cutting-edge visual effects that make you feel as though you're soaring through the sky or diving deep beneath the ocean. Meanwhile, at Area 15, you'll find Meow Wolf's Omega Mart, a delightfully surreal interactive supermarket filled with hidden doors and secret portals. Area 15 has quickly become one of Vegas' most captivating destinations—offering virtual reality adventures, indoor zip lines, axe-throwing lounges, and unique art installations, all housed within a neon-lit warehouse that feels straight out of a sci-fi film. At Wynn's Awakening, prepare to have your expectations shattered. This extraordinary stage production combines acrobatics, stunning choreography, and innovative storytelling into one captivating performance. The technologically advanced stage—complete with dynamic lighting, shifting platforms, and breathtaking special effects—makes Awakening a must-see, mesmerizing experience that continues to captivate audiences nightly. In the Bellagio, Pinky Ring by Bruno Mars feels like stepping into an ultra-stylish speakeasy. Vintage décor, cozy booths, and a perfectly curated playlist complement old-school cocktails. As I packed my bags and bid farewell to Sin City, it hit me that Las Vegas hasn't simply reinvented itself—it has perfected its long-running obsession with excess by moving the hottest scenes outdoors. Pool parties have been a Vegas staple for decades, but today's dayclubs have elevated the experience to an entirely new level of sophistication, luxury, and celebrity appeal. From extravagant cabanas at Fontainebleau's Oasis Pool Deck to electrifying DJ sets at Encore Beach Club and Wet Republic, the poolside has truly become the new heart of Vegas' vibrant social scene. As I left town, it was clear: Sin City's future—and perhaps its true soul—is now found under the desert sun, champagne in hand, surrounded by the glimmering promise of endless summer.
