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The Hindu
13-05-2025
- Business
- The Hindu
China hosts Latin American leaders in move to deepen ties amid U.S. tariff war
China on Monday (May 12, 2025) welcomed Latin American leaders and officials to Beijing as it seeks to draw the region closer in response to the trade war with the United States. Beijing has stepped up economic and political cooperation with Latin American nations in recent years and has urged a united front against U.S. President Donald Trump's recent maelstrom of tariffs. Two-thirds of Latin American countries have joined Beijing's trillion-dollar Belt and Road (BRI) infrastructure programme, and China has surpassed the U.S. as the biggest trading partner of Brazil, Peru and Chile, among others. The forum between China and the 33-member Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) is due to formally begin on Tuesday. Brazil in Beijing A notable attendee is Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who arrived in Beijing on Saturday for a five-day state visit. Mr. Lula has sought to improve ties with both China and the U.S. since returning to power in early 2023. Brazilian exports to China reached more than $94 billion last year, according to the United Nations Comtrade Database. The South American agricultural power sends mainly soybeans and other primary commodities to China, while the Asian giant sells semiconductors, telephones, vehicles and medicines to Brazil. On Monday, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi hosted his Cuban counterpart Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla, Venezuela's Yvan Gil, Peru's Elmer Schialer and Uruguay's Mario Lubetkin for talks at Beijing's ornate Diaoyutai State Guesthouse. Other expected participants include Colombian President Gustavo Petro and Chilean President Gabriel Boric. Mr. Xi will address the summit at its opening ceremony on Tuesday.
Emirates Woman
25-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Emirates Woman
7 fabulous Eid staycation deals for the upcoming long weekend
Life by Alice Holtham-Pargin 3 hours ago Golden beaches, gourmet dining, and sensational five-star resorts await… If you're spending the long weekend in the UAE and making plans to check-in to one of the alluring resorts on our doorstep, then consider one of these fabulous Eid staycation deals. From opulence in Dubai to relaxing retreats on the shores of the Northern Emirates, check out our EW-approved guide to Eid staycations in the UAE. Raffles The Palm Elegance and glamour come together on the shores of Palm Jumeirah's West Crescent for a relaxing retreat against the backdrop of one of Dubai's most ornate resorts. With rates starting from AED1,870 for UAE residents, check-in to one of the grand rooms or suites for a minimum of two nights, and enjoy 20% off stays and dining across the resort's portfolio of gourmet restaurants. From modern Japanese flavours at Matagi to a dazzling afternoon tea at Bluthner Hall, it's a culinary escape with lots to look forward to. There's also 20% off pampering spa treatments in the sensational Cinq Mondes Spa, perfect for a few days of serene relaxation. Complimentary breakfast is also included for club rooms and suite guests. From AED1,870. Burj Al Arab Be a guest of one of Dubai's most iconic resorts with an Eid staycation at Jumeirah Burj Al Arab. A beacon of ultra-luxury hospitality for the last 25 years, this show-stopping stay is a lesson in all-out Dubai luxury. The suites are all laced with decadent touches and complete with private butler service, while gastronomic and leisure delights range from a Michelin Star restaurant with panoramic views in Al Muntaha, to underwater dining at L'Olivo and the sensational beach club terrace of SAL. From AED4,982. Banyan Tree Dubai Benefit from a blissful wellness break where you can switch off and reset on the shores of Bluewaters at Banyan Tree Dubai. Check-in to one of the contemporary rooms and suites – opt for a sea view to make the most of the serene setting. Then there's a whole host of perks for UAE residents, with 20% off the best available rate, daily breakfast included at the pretty poolside restaurant, Alizee, and a 20% discount on further dining and pampering spa treatments. Elongate your stay with early check-in and late check-out (subject to availability) and maximise those blissful extra days off. From AED2,480. Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island On one of the world's most alluring beaches, enjoy sugary sands, crystalline waters and an all-inclusive stay at Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island. A fabulous destination for families, there's up to 26% off the best available rates for Eid Al Fitr with a minimum two-night stay. Plus, you'll get to enjoy contemporary guest rooms – some of which even come with direct pool access and a myriad of villa categories to choose from. Once you're at the resort, there are plenty of dining options to try, plus wellness and fitness facilities included, from the spa pool and jacuzzi to fitness and yoga classes. Live performances during the evening include guitarists, DJs and more talented musicians. From AED9,018 for two nights. FIVE LUXE, JBR For a lively stay of contemporary suites with private plunge pools, high-octane dining with panoramic views and a vibrant pool scene for sun-drenched days, head to FIVE LUXE for an Eid staycation. With the pay three, stay four offer, you'll get your fourth night for free when checking-in for a minimum of four nights at Dubai's hedonistic new seaside address. But it's not just about the party scene, the modern spa is a haven of relaxation where guests can bliss out and use the five-star facilities. From AED2,000. Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi Retreat to the calm shores of Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi for a family retreat where cultural charm and relaxed luxury take centre stage. Available until April 12, book a three-night stay and enjoy 15% off the rate and a complimentary suite upgrade. Each morning, you'll also get to wake up to daily breakfast at Sofra Bld, where an extensive spread awaits. Enjoy serene flame-hued sunsets from the beach, discover the nearby souk, and even enjoy an abra ride across the resort's waterways. From AED829. Sofitel Al Hamra Immerse yourself in French luxury by the sea with a stay at the family-friendly Sofitel Al Hamra on the relaxed Ras Al Khaimah beachfront. Benefits for UAE residents this Eid include complimentary room upgrades, breakfast for two, and 20% off spa treatments. Rooms are dotted between the main resort and an array of chalets within the grounds – some complete with their own private pools, and when you can tear yourself away from your room, enjoy some fun in the sun at one of the UAE's largest swimming pools, featuring a splash pad, in-water loungers and a swim-up bar. Alfresco dining adds to the serene on-holiday feel. From AED1,950.
Forbes
23-03-2025
- Forbes
Here's The Best Time To Travel To Thailand, According To Experts
Thailand boast picturesque landscapes for visitors to embrace. Season three of 'The White Lotus,' the popular TV series that follows the exploits of various guests and employees of the fictional White Lotus resort chain, introduced millions of viewers to the picturesque country of Thailand. At first, they congregated on the Thai Gulf island of Koh Samui, where the Lotus resort is set, and which at the time was a palm-fringed paradise best known for farming coconuts. This southeast Asian country, known for tropical beaches, opulent royal palaces, ancient ruins and ornate temples, also boasts a vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, bustling cities and the famous floating markets. Beach resorts include bustling Pattaya and fashionable Hua Hin. Thailand's peak travel season is from November to February. Thailand's peak travel season, from November to February, offers pleasantly cool and dry weather, making it the perfect time to explore the country's breathtaking beaches, vibrant cities and stunning landscapes. This is also when Thailand comes alive with festive celebrations, including the world-famous Loy Krathong Festival in November and the exciting New Year celebrations in December. Dani Redd, Deputy Editor of the Much Better Adventures Magazine, says, 'To enjoy the warm weather and avoid the Christmas crowds, I suggest visiting Thailand between mid-November and mid-December. The landscape will be lush and green from the monsoon season, and the rivers will be high enough for kayaking.' If you're looking for perfect weather, November to early April is ideal. The skies are clear, the humidity is lower and the temperatures are comfortable, especially in northern regions like Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Whether you want to relax on the stunning islands of Phuket and Ko Samui or embark on a cultural journey through Bangkok's temples, this period offers the best conditions for exploration Jennifer Gardner, product manager at Kensington Tours, adds, 'We like to say that the best time to travel to Thailand depends on what you are looking for. The period between November and February, during the country's cool and dry season, offers pleasant temperatures, ideal for exploring both cultural sites and natural attractions without the intense heat or humidity. If you're seeking fewer crowds and lower costs, visiting in the shoulder months of October or March and April can also offer a balanced experience with slightly warmer weather and fewer tourists.' Visitors can experience numerous festivals throughout the year. Travelers to Thailand between November and February are in for the best weather and an incredible experience. Gardner says, 'Visitors can witness some of the country's most vibrant festivals, like Loy Krathong and Yi Peng in November or the lively Chinese New Year celebrations.' The beaches in places like Phuket, Krabi and Koh Samui are at their most beautiful, with clear skies and calm waters, perfect for relaxing or island hopping. Up north, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai offer amazing trekking opportunities through lush mountains, while history lovers can explore the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya. 'If you're into diving, the Andaman Sea is stunning this time of year, with incredible visibility. Of course, Bangkok is a must. This is the perfect season to explore its temples, floating markets and legendary street food without the intense heat.' Southeast Asia specialist Grant Ekelund says, 'While Thailand is a popular travel destination year-round, InsideAsia Tours recommends visiting between November and February as this is the cool dry season, offering pleasant temperatures in the 70s-80s, and minimal rainfall, making the winter season ideal for sightseeing, island-hopping and outdoor adventures.' Visitors can get up close and personal with the local culture. For visitors who are more interested in local festivals & culture, April is a great time to visit when the Thai New Year Festival occurs. Known locally as 'Songkran' the festival is celebrated in mid-April with nationwide water fights, symbolic cleansing rituals and lively street parties. Gardner adds, 'November hosts two of my personal favorite Thai festivals, Loy Krathong & Yi Peng. During this time, locals and tourists-alike release decorated floating baskets onto waterways and launch glowing lanterns into the sky to symbolize letting go of negativity and making wishes for the future.' Kakaking offers a splendid way to appreciate the sights. Thailand's peak travel season offers an endless array of experiences. Some must-see and must-do activities include: The countryside becomes lush and green during rainy season. Although Thailand is an all-year-round destination, its monsoon season typically occurs from June to October, bringing heavier rains, especially on the Andaman Coast (Phuket, Krabi, Koh Phi Phi). However, this can be a magical time for those who love lush, green landscapes and fewer crowds. It doesn't rain all day. Monsoon showers tend to be intense, heavy deluges not day-long drizzle so you can have plenty of dry-time outdoors. Ekelund explains, 'The tropical rain can be super refreshing. It's like a warm shower, a welcome relief after the heat. Some evenings, you get to see stunning storms. Lots of the countryside becomes lush and green, so you get great photos compared to the grumpy dry grass and empty paddy fields of the dry season. Also, it's the quietest time to visit since there are far less people in your classic tourist photos of temples, and it's cheaper.' Plus, the Gulf of Thailand (Ko Samui, Ko Phangan, Ko Tao) still enjoys relatively good weather during this time of year. During this period is usually when the tropical fruits are in season. So while the rainy season may not be for everyone, it offers a different kind of beauty – peaceful, refreshing and budget-friendly. Redd says, 'I am a fan of off-season travel, so I would always recommend it. Prices are lower and tourist hotspots are less crowded. Besides, an afternoon downpour can actually be quite refreshing when the temperatures are high, and offer a break from the humidity. More rain means lusher landscapes, and higher water levels in the river, great for kayaking. Also, the staggered rainy season in Thailand means that there's normally a drier region you can visit.' Each month of the year has its own special appeal. No matter when you choose to visit, Thailand welcomes you with its rich culture, stunning scenery and warm hospitality.
Yahoo
22-03-2025
- General
- Yahoo
The world's largest bowl of pasta, near the French Quarter!
NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — March 21 may have been a lenten 'Fish Fry Friday,' but the Italian-American St. Joseph Society had an extra-large pasta for lunch. Every year, they say it's the world's largest bowl of pasta. Delicious, but hard work for the chefs! Crawfish Mania! 13 different crawfish dishes during Lent 'You have 80 to 100 gallons of the sauce, gravy, sugo. A thousand pounds of the pasta. There's many other ingredients that goes into this dish. It's a very ornate chore, and a labor of passion and love,' said Peter Gilberti, president of the Italian-American St. Joseph Society. The chefs worked on the meal for nearly eight hours, and the line to devour it stretched out the door. The Italian-American St. Joseph's parade is Saturday night, March 22, through downtown New Orleans, and starting at 6 world's largest bowl of pasta, near the French Quarter! Crawfish Mania! 13 different crawfish dishes during Lent Meteorologist Carrigan Chauvin visits Bourg Elementary LSU's Aneesah Morrow and Flau'Jae Johnson foreshadow strong returns in their March Madness opener 18 Surviving Rosie the Riveters Visit the National WWII Museum Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
New York Times
11-03-2025
- Entertainment
- New York Times
Serious Intrigue at Loewe
One of the most delightful shows in Paris wasn't a show at all. It was a — what? Exhibition? Career retrospective? Opportunity to snack on gossip along with some croissants? Officially it was the Loewe Fall 2025 men's and women's wear presentation, held in the ornate halls of the 18th century Pozzo di Borgo, the hôtel particulier residence of Karl Lagerfeld that, since his death, has become one of fashion's favorite venues. (In the hopes, perhaps, that some of that Lagerfeldian mystique remains in the halls.) Unofficially, it was — maybe, possibly — the last chance to see the version of Loewe that emerged from the mind of the designer Jonathan Anderson, who is widely expected to be leaving the brand to move to Dior. LVMH, which owns both houses, has resolutely refused to comment. Loewe employees at the presentation smiled coyly and offered to talk about the collection. Mr. Anderson, who had recently posted on Instagram what seemed like a two-and-a-half-minute greatest hits compilation of his 10 years at the house (Look, there's Daniel Craig in a weird woolly jumper! Look, here's a puzzle bag! Look, Rihanna at the Super Bowl!) was nowhere to be seen. He had reportedly checked the setup, and left the building. No matter. You could see him in the clothes. In the giant pumpkin by the British artist Anthea Hamilton, which had appeared at a 2022 show, that greeted everyone at the entrance. And in the fact that even Jamie Dornan, one of the house's ambassadors, was strolling through the rooms, perhaps contemplating how he would look in some giant leather boots that resembled a pair of waders from the closet of a Three Musketeer. If this was, indeed, a last collection, it was a telling one. The house called it a 'scrapbook' of ideas, but it served as a reminder of all the elements that made Mr. Anderson's Loewe one of the most exciting brands in the post-Covid fashion world: the sophisticated craftiness and counterintuitive choices; the impossibility of predicting where things would go next; the sense that if you wore any of this stuff, you would immediately feel like the most unexpected, interesting person in any room. Also, there were always great coats. In one still life, for example, mannequins wearing dresses made of loops and loops of beaded organza in coral, evergreen and azure, clustered like a group of sea anemones schmoozing at a cocktail party. A strapless frock with a top composed entirely of what seemed like iridescent soap bubbles was suspended in a window frame. Another frame contained more of those gargantuan boots paired with a leather pea coat, as if an invisible woman had been caught in midentrance. Some nymph-like draped jersey gowns were positioned in front of a giant green apple. Tempting! There was a cabinet of curiosities — sorry, shoes, including a Mary Jane covered in little crystals and a ballet flat, knit like a cable sweater. More jackets and trench coats made of wide strips of leather, hung from epaulet to blouson waist, in case anyone forgot Loewe was born as a Spanish leather house (Mr. Anderson never did). And a collaboration with the Josef & Anni Albers Foundation, so the work of the Bauhaus artists inspired nubby coats in the pixelated patterns of Ms. Albers' textiles and skirts derived from Mr. Albers' painting series 'Homage to the Square.' Only because this was Mr. Anderson, he made his homage to the homage in — circles. Anyway, there were also handbags with the squares reproduced in caviar beading to make the connection clear. Upstairs, past some supersize reproductions of Mr. Anderson's flower figure jewelry charms apparently in the midst of sliding down a banister, there was a men's wear room set up like a consciousness-raising session, filled with mannequins perched in chairs in various iterations of knitwear (the jacket and tee turned into a twin set, a lavishly Fair Isle quarter-zip) and more leather. The clothes were so intriguing it seemed sad not to have been able to see them come to life on a runway. At the same time, even without the magic of a show — no hair, no makeup, no strut — they still looked magnetically original. If they could do that for a mannequin, just imagine what they could do for you.
