My Wider Work

See below for some further examples of my published articles

Travel

Entering Egypt just got easier with new, on-arrival digital visa  - Wanderlust

If you’re planning a trip to visit the incredible new Grand Egyptian Museum, the world’s largest museum devoted to a single civilisation, or Egypt’s other iconic sites, a new Digital Visa-on-Arrival System may make your entry into Egypt much easier.

Launching at Cairo International Airport on 1 August, a new visa QR code system will soon replace the traditional paper visa sticker. The move is designed to speed up processing at border control and reduce reliance on paper documentation.

The Di...

5 reasons to visit Istria, Croatia's underrated Adriatic peninsula - Wanderlust

Consequently, having witnessed the inner workings of Britain’s political and legal systems, as well as the enduring legacy of colonialism on societies across the world, I am eager to deepen my understanding of modern international politics and the historical forces that have shaped it. I hope this degree will equip me with the knowledge and analytical skills needed to advocate effectively for those who have been unjustly treated and to pursue a career as a human rights lawyer.

The 25 Latin America trips we are most excited about right now - Wanderlust

Discover Peru’s Inca history on a women-only trip with Intrepid Travel through the Sacred Valley. The new Peru: Women’s Expedition small-group tour is led by a local female guide and begins in Cusco, the former religious centre of the Inca Empire, where you will meet female entrepreneurs at a local market before participating in a bracelet-making workshop.
Dive into authentic Andean flavours at a female-owned restaurant and take a chocolate-making class at a social enterprise providing training...

Europe's least visited country to get a new route from London  Gatwick   - Wanderlust

Travellers will soon be able to fly from London Gatwick to the Moldovan capital of Chișinău as Wizz Air launches a new route starting in late October 2026.

The new year-round service adds to the airline’s existing connection between London Luton and Chișinău, and will operate four times a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.

This latest connection is scheduled to begin on 25 October and makes it easier for British travellers to explore Moldova, often cited as an undiscovered and...

Foreign Office lifts ‘do not travel’ advisory for UAE and Qatar  - Wanderlust

An upturn in confidence to travel is expected following the memorandum of understanding between the US and Iran, with the UK Foreign Office lifting the ‘do not travel’ advisory for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Qatar.

Cyprus, Turkey, Oman, Bahrain, Jordan, Yemen, Syria, Palestine, Israel, Iran and Kuwait have also received updated travel guidance.

The Foreign Office confirmed that “The US and Iran have announced a memorandum of understanding in relation to the conflict in the Middle Eas...

Etihad offers free medical travel insurance to visitors to Abu Dhabi - Wanderlust

Launched in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) Abu Dhabi and the National Insurance Company (also known as Daman), Etihad’s new initiative aims to make visiting the UAE capital easier for travellers.

Antonoaldo Neves, group chief executive officer of Etihad Airways, added: “Giving comprehensive medical insurance with every eligible Etihad ticket means our guests can focus entirely on experiencing the extraordinary Emirati hospitality Abu Dhabi has to offer.

“This is...

Bradt publishes first guide to Afghanistan in almost 20 years - Wanderlust

From the searing deserts of the south to the high peaks of the Hindu Kush, Afghanistan has long been the graveyard of empires, yet it is also a country with a rich tradition of hospitality.

Once a key stop on the hippie trail, Afghanistan has almost disappeared from travel itineraries in recent years. It strikes an interesting paradox: a nation so well-known on the world stage, yet one so rarely explored.

Written by James Willcox and frequent Wanderlust contributor Dana Facaros, the guide cove...

Everything you need to know about the 2026 solar eclipse  - Wanderlust

A total solar eclipse is set to occur on 12 August 2026 and will be visible from mainland Europe.

This astronomical event occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and the Earth, completely obscuring the face of the Sun. In a total solar eclipse, all direct sunlight is blocked, turning day into night at a stroke. 

Beginning over northern Siberia, the shadow of the Moon will pass over eastern Greenland, glide down the west coast of Iceland and across the Atlantic to northern Spain, before he...
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Wildlife & the Outdoors

Step into nature and discover more about our incredible planet.

This new Dominican Republic conservation experience brings travellers face-to-face with baby sea turtles - Wanderlust

A new turtle hatching experience is being launched in the town of Miches in the Dominican Republic (DR) to allow visitors to witness a responsible, controlled and sustainable hatchling release, a bucket-list moment for many travellers.
Sand to Sea is a small-scale, expert-led sea turtle release experience run by Protortuga, a sea turtle conservation programme in the DR. Participation costs US$80 per person, with a portion of the proceeds supporting Protortuga’s conservation efforts.
Protortuga p...

Estonia opens hundreds of working farms to the public this weekend - Wanderlust

More than 300 farms across Estonia will open their gates to visitors this weekend as the country’s annual Open Farm Days returns on 25 and 26 July.

Running for just two days, from 10am to 5pm on 25 and 26 July, the event gives visitors behind-the-scenes access to working farms that are normally closed to the public.
Now in its twelfth year, the event has grown from around 100 participating farms and fewer than 50,000 visitors in 2015 to more than 300 farms and agricultural enterprises in 2026....

New 120-mile Cumbrian walking route launches this September - Wanderlust

The UK’s newest long-distance walking route will comprise six sections and take walkers through the North Pennines National Landscape, the Yorkshire Dales National Park, the Lake District National Park and the expanse of Morecambe Bay. Using existing trails where possible, the Westmorland and Furness Way creates a continuous route from Alston, England’s highest market town, in the north, to the sandstone ruins of the 900-year-old Furness Abbey in the south.
The adventure begins with Over the Pen...

UNESCO designates 14 new biosphere reserves - Wanderlust

To mark World Environment Day and the 55th anniversary of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves, UNESCO has designated 14 new biosphere reserves across 14 countries.

The latest batch includes three nations that welcome their first biosphere reserves: Montenegro, Timor-Leste and Aruba. What’s more, Aruba’s entire territory has been designated as a biosphere, making it one of only a select handful of island nations to become a reserve.
In a first for the programme, the entire metropolitan area...

South Africa’s Table Mountain receives accessibility upgrade  - Wanderlust

A Universal Access Walkway has been installed at the summit, making it easier for wheelchair users, pram users and those with mobility challenges to navigate the peak. This adds to the already accessible cable cars, restaurant and restroom facilities. Now, all can enjoy uninterrupted views of the Atlantic Seaboard below.

Led by South African National Parks in partnership with Table Mountain Aerial Cableway, the development aims to make the summit experience more inclusive without interrupting...

Remembering Wildlife reveals the 20 winning entries to be included in its new book: Remembering Giraffes - Wanderlust

The fundraising photography book series Remembering Wildlife has revealed the names of the photographers whose winning photos will be included in its upcoming title, Remembering Giraffes.
The winners will have their photos featured alongside incredible imagery of all four species of giraffe (northern, southern, Masai and reticulated), donated by some of the world’s foremost wildlife photographers, including two of this year’s competition judges, Wim van den Heever and Daryl Balfour.
The latest b...

Kazakhstan announces a huge expansion to its parks and reserves  - Wanderlust

Kazakhstan is a nation of soaring mountains, wide-open plains and crystalline lakes. One of the largest countries in the world by land area, it encompasses a wide range of ecosystems, from the towering peaks of the Tian Shan mountains and the dunes of the Aral Karakum desert to the expansive grasslands of the Kazakh steppe and the forests of Qarqaraly.  

Many of these landscapes are set to be protected under a new national biodiversity strategy, which will see its nature reserves and national p...

UNESCO has just named 12 new Global Geoparks  - Wanderlust

UNESCO has designated 12 new geoparks across 10 countries, with one nation joining the list for the very first time.

A geopark designation recognises an area of rich geological heritage, ranging from rock formations to volcanic ranges, which needs to be preserved. These new additions bring the current number of UNESCO Global Geoparks to 241 sites across 51 countries.

This network of protected geological spaces now covers more than 882,000 sq km, an area slightly larger than Pakistan.

Tunis...
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Music

From hip hop to traditional flamenco, music is a universal language. Read reviews of up-and-coming and established artists below.

Dolly Parton opens her first roadside services in Tennessee - Wanderlust

Dolly Parton is still going strong as she enters her 80th year, opening a brand-new travel stop in Tennessee, a soon-to-come flagship Nashville hotel and a record-breaking new attraction set to land at Dollywood.

First on Dolly’s development set list is the Travel Stop in Cornersville, Tennessee. Just off Interstate 65, and opening on 24 June, this rest stop allows travellers to take a load off and recharge with a mug of Dolly’s Cup of Ambition Coffee, or enjoy a barbecue meal. Exclusive merch...

Half Moon Putney and the decline of London's live music venues

With pubs, clubs and music venues closing down, London’s live music scene is under threat. Yet iconic venues like the Half Moon Putney give a glimmer of hope; a promise that all is not yet lost.


Everyone knows it. Music is better live. So much energy, passion and power is lost in the recording studio.


The magic of the spontaneous is sacrificed on the false altar of perfection. 


Grassroots independent venues are at the heart of this magic. The sticky floors, the expectant tension, the ni...

The ancient tradition of Wassail takes centre stage at The Union Chapel

In front of a packed house in the Union Chapel in Islington, Eliza Carthy and Jon Boden transported their audience to an earlier time.


Flanked by festive fir trees and backlit by the chapel’s gorgeous stained glass windows, the pair kept an old English tradition alive: Wassail.


Wassail is a Twelfth Night tradition with pagan roots which has been practised in Britain for centuries, manifesting itself in many forms, depending on local tradition.


Long before carollers were the norm, festiv...

Loronic launches: A new addition to London's club scene | North East Londoner

A new bespoke event has launched in London’s club scene, seeking to blend the elegance of Mayfair venues with the gritty underground of London rave culture.Loronic put on its opening event, Dark Desires, at Studio 45 in Shoreditch on December 12.Started by three friends: Loran, Ron and Nic Cammelli, they hope to be a point of difference for London’s nightlife. Cammelli said: “We don’t care about money, we don’t care about quantity. We just care about the experience.”Loronic intends to put on a l...

Introducing juubi: the new grassroots music collective sparking hope for London’s independent music scene

In a city where music venues and local pubs are closing their doors, a new London-born grassroots music collective celebrated its first birthday.


At Brixton Jamm, the juubi collective celebrated the continuation of their mission to keep grassroots music and nightlife alive in London.


Under the tagline ‘enjoyment is your birthright’, this group of 12 friends has developed an idea into a reality and have enjoyed seeing the event blossom. 


Busayo Adeniran, a founding member of juubi, said:...

'FLAMENCURA'... MATISSE CLUB’S WEEKLY FLAMENCO EVENT • 24/7 Valencia

The show was performed by Tomas de los Cariños Jr as the singer, Dani de Francisco as the dancer and Juanjo Amador on the guitar. Tomas and Juanjo collaborated beautifully to begin the performance, voice and strings complimenting each other beautifully as they rolled through fandangos, tangos and bulerías, accompanied by the rhythmic claps and stamps of the crowd.
The crowd participation of this event added another layer to the music, giving it a greater depth and emotion than what one would see...

MUSIC AND DANCE WITH ‘PANORAMA FLAMENCO’ • 24/7 Valencia

November 5th: Panorama Flamenco hosts Lucerito de Las Marismas at Valencia’s iconic ‘16 Toneladas’.
Since moving to Madrid and starting work as a dancer for various singers and TV channels, Lucerito de las Marismas has become steeped in different artistic styles on stage, flamenco as well as other disciplines. It is here we can appreciate  influences, from cabaret to Canalla Bachata and covers of traditional music as well as other songs closer to pop… without losing the spirit nor the emotion of...

L'ÚLTIM EUROPEU RELEASES NEW ALBUM: CORREDOR MEDITERRANI • 24/7 Valencia

L’Últim Europeu was started by the Lacasa twins during their stay in Poland and the Czech Republic, maturing further in the cities of Barcelona and Valencia. The group debuted in 2019 with their first album under the name Naus espacials i altres objectes per identificar (Autoeditado, 2019). They were able to present this album in different spaces and events in Catalonia and Valencia, gathering a substantial following. In 2020 they published their single ‘Eme’.
Their second album kicks off with i...

Maruja Limón play '16 Toneladas' on November 19th! • 24/7 Valencia

Exclusive ‘24/7 Valencia’ Interview with ‘Maruja Limón’
24/7 Valencia: Tell me a bit about the story of the start Maruja Limón
Esther Gonzalez: Maruja Limón was born four or five years ago because some friends and I got together and decided we wanted to make music and do a project together. We had a residency in the Centro Civico de Beijos in Barcelona. There we started to compose music and do covers. We didn’t have a name at that point but we wanted the name of the group to be a woman’s name an...

BRITISH PUNK IN VALENCIA: THE LOUNGE SOCIETY’S SPANISH DEBUT ON NOVEMBER 9th! • 24/7 Valencia

The Lounge Society’s Spanish tour will feature a performance in Madrid on November 8th at Siroco Club, November 9th in Valencia’s 16 Toneladas, finishing up in Barcelona on November 10th at Razzmatazz 3.
The Yorkshire born group brought out their first single in the middle of May 2022 ahead of the album with the same name “Blood Money.” This song was constructed around a smooth riff and an expansive chorus as “a response to the culture of greed” as the band put it, accompanied by a hallucinogeni...

LUCERITO DE LAS MARISMAS At '16 TONELADAS' ON NOVEMBER 5th • 24/7 Valencia

EXLCUSIVE ’24/7 VALENCIA’ INTERVIEW WITH LUCERITO DE LAS MARISMAS: FLAMENCO DANCER, SINGER AND CABARET STAR
24/7 Valencia: How does it feel to be starting the ‘Panorama Flamenco’ festival this year and what can people look forward to in your show this Saturday?
Lucerito de las Marismas: I feel a great responsibility in starting the festival, as I’m the only Valencian performing, and I have to set the bar high, because there are some amazing artists coming to perform. I want to leave my mark. I t...

ENJOYING A LIVE CONCERT AT ‘LOCO CLUB’ (VALENCIA) • 24/7 Valencia

If you walked into a bar and saw five men on stage in tight flares, colourful shirts, with long hair and sporting mutton chops and moustaches, you might be forgiven for wondering what time portal you’d just stepped through. However you would in fact be seeing psychedelic french rock band ‘Komodor’, who graced the stage at Valencia’s ‘Loco Club’ on the 24th of October.
At first I cringed at the clear emphasis on the retro, thinking that this would be yet another tribute act to 70s rock, trying ve...

LOVE TO ROCK FESTIVAL (EXCLUSIVE '24/7 VALENCIA' REPORT) • 24/7 Valencia

On what started as a blistering October afternoon, the Love to Rock festival entered its second day. Vibrant energy pulsated through the audience, all seeming to share that most sought after yet most fleeting of emotions: happiness.
Comprising two stages, Marina Norte and La Pergola, Love to Rock provided an eclectic mix of big name acts and DJs designed to get the crowd dancing. With the main stage “Marina Norte”, not opening till four, we made our way to the singular source of sounds, which di...

Culture

See below for some cultural insights.

Shanghai's much anticipated Grand Opera House set for October opening - Wanderlust

Rising from the banks of the Huangpu River in the shape of an unfolding Chinese fan, the Shanghai Grand Opera House is set to open on 17 October 2026.
Comprising three auditoriums designed to support performances across different scales and genres, a dedicated arts education space and a publicly accessible spiral rooftop, the opera house is expected to become one of Shanghai’s flagship cultural venues and one of the largest opera houses in Asia when it opens this autumn.
With its opening perform...

Guggenheim Abu Dhabi confirms its opening date - Wanderlust

Guggenheim Abu Dhabi has finally confirmed it will open on 11 December 2026, after two decades of planning, construction and development.
Taking its place in the Saadiyat Cultural District, the 80,000 sq metre museum of modern and contemporary art will house 30 galleries and is the largest of the four Guggenheim institutions. Guggenheim Abu Dhabi will join other landmark cultural institutions in the cultural district, such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, teamLab Phenom...

The Ocean Film Festival World Tour is set to splash down in the UK this autumn - Wanderlust

Ocean lovers should have their diaries ready as the Ocean Film Festival World Tour returns to the UK, visiting more than 25 cities between September and November.
Now in its 13th year, the ocean-themed festival showcases short films that capture the ocean from every angle, from underwater encounters with whales to heart-pounding surfing adventures. The tour will travel across England, Scotland and Wales, showing in cities including London, Bristol, Edinburgh, Llandudno and Brighton.

UK tour di...

Southern China’s largest natural history museum set to open in Shenzhen - Wanderlust

A new natural history museum is rising from the shores of Yanzi Lake in Shenzhen, China, and will allow visitors to explore 4.6 billion years of Earth’s history.
Dedicated to exploring the story of evolution, the museum opens on 28 July with eight themed exhibition halls. Together, they link the grand cosmic landscape with Shenzhen’s local mountains and seas, inviting visitors on an immersive journey through Earth’s natural and human history.

Internationally renowned  artist  presents new lakeside exhibition in Finnish  forest  - Wanderlust

Set in natural surroundings and framed by lakes and forests, internationally acclaimed artist Anish Kapoor presents a new long-term exhibition at the Serlachius Museums in Mänttä, Finland. 

The exhibition fills three gallery spaces and is made up of intense large-scale paintings, objects coated in Vantablack paint, and a vast new sculpture, the nature of which has not yet been revealed, specifically designed to complement Serlachius Manor’s main hall. 

This display will run from 23 May 2026 to...

'Dan Snow’s Great Egyptian Adventure'  to air this month - Wanderlust

From the pyramids to the Nile, the packed streets of Cairo to the silent tombs of ancient pharaohs, renowned historian Dan Snow is all set to take viewers on an exciting journey through Egypt. 

Dan Snow’s Great Egyptian Adventure takes audiences through a country steeped in history and rich in legend. Egypt has always held an important place in Dan’s heart, after a family holiday as a 12-year-old sparked not only his love for the country but also a curiosity about history that has shaped his ad...

The Vikings return to  London with an immersive experience on the Thames  - Wanderlust

“The Vikings were seen as a natural force: storms, tornadoes, fire in the heavens. It was as if they were a natural disaster.” – Professor Rudolf Simek 

Rather than gurning on longships while bearing axes and swords, ready to plunder and pillage, the Vikings have returned as part of an immersive experience that transports visitors to the icy forests of Scandinavia and into the realms of the Norse gods. Vikings: The Immersive Experience arrived on the shores of the Thames at Dock X, Canada Water...

Channel 5 announces new birdwatching series to hit UK screens in April  - Wanderlust

A new three-part TV series is set to have birdwatchers out there twitching with excitement, and could well do for the hobby what Bob Mortimer and Paul Whitehouse’s Gone Fishing has done for the pastime of angling by motivating those who are curious about birdwatching to get out there and finally give it a go.

Sam is a long-time birdwatcher and has travelled the length and breadth of the UK and across the world in pursuit of his passion. This time, he brings along Adrian, a complete birding novi...

Japan's Edo-Tokyo Museum reopens after four years of renovations  - Wanderlust

The Edo-Tokyo Museum, also known as Edo-Haku, tells the story of 400 years of Tokyo history, from the dawn of the Tokugawa shogunate of Edo to the present day. Located in the Sumida Ward, it is known for its large-scale recreations of historical city landmarks, from the Nihonbashi Bridge (once the starting point for five major roads across the country) to the Nakamura-Za Theatre, one of the three main kabuki theatre venues in the city during the Edo period (1603–1868).

The museum has been clos...

The Moroccan city of Fez launches new cultural programme at Bab  Boujloud Square  - Wanderlust

The city of Fez (Fes) in Morocco has launched a new weekly cultural and entertainment programme in its iconic Bab Boujloud Square, with performances running every Friday through Sunday from 5pm.  

The programme showcases a rich selection of Morocco’s oral and dramatic traditions, drawing on the city’s melting pot of Andalucian, Sufi and Amazigh (Berber) cultural heritage. These include theatrical and musical shows, street parades and sessions by traditional hlayqiya (storytellers), who narrate...

A night out in Bishkek wins  Bradt’s New Travel Writer of the Year competition  - Wanderlust

A tale of a memorable night out in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan has won 1st prize at travel guide publisher, Bradt’s, New Writer of the Year competition. 

The winner was Lucy Evanson, a student journalist from Stoke-on-Trent, which was announced on 18 March at Stanfords, London, as part of a special evening featuring the Edward Stanford Travel Writing Awards. 

Evanson wins an all-expenses-paid, guided tour to China for two, courtesy of Wendy Wu Tours, and a commission to write about her trip for Wander...

Tate Britain announces extended opening hours for  Lee Miller and Turner & Constable  exhibitions - Wanderlust

The Tate Britain announced that, by popular demand, it would extend weekend opening hours for its acclaimed Lee Miller and Turner & Constable exhibitions. 

Both shows will now stay open until 10 pm on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays for the next three weeks, until Lee Miller closes on 15 February. 

Alex Farquharson, Director of Tate Britain, said: “From historic landscape painting to groundbreaking modern photography, these inspirational exhibitions invite you to see the world through artists’...

New large-scale sculptures unveiled along New Zealand's Forgotten World Highway - Wanderlust

New Zealand’s Forgotten World Highway is the country’s oldest heritage trail, a 155km road trip following the path of ancient Māori trade routes through historic settlements, into wild bushland and into the heart of New Zealand’s incredible landscapes.

A series of three-metre-high sculptures has been installed at key points along the highway by Māori artists from the iwi Ngāti Maru, Ngāti Hāua and Ngāti Ruanui. These works tell the story of legendary Māori explorer Tamatea-Pōkai-Whenua.

The de...
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Society

LISTEN: Camden Town - from punk to postcard | North West Londoner

Camden Town has many faces, from a trading hub to a home for punks, goths and outsiders.


Yet today it is a tourist hotspot and a background for TikTok videos.


There is a fear that Camden has lost its soul, that what was once punk has now become a postcard.


Listen below for more.


Read next: Half Moon Putney: Last of the legendary live music venues?

Camden Town has many faces, from a trading hub to a home for punks, goths and outsiders.

Yet today it is a tourist hotspot and a backgro...

Rising Stars: how international nurses are powering London’s healthcare

Amid doctors’ strikes, pay disputes and anti-migration rhetoric, the dedication and excellence of London’s international nurses and healthcare staff has been recognised by the Royal College of Nursing’s Rising Star awards.


These awards celebrate those who go above and beyond in their roles, improving patient outcomes, supporting colleagues, and shaping the future of care. 


This year’s awards shine a particular light on internationally trained nurses working across London, whose contributio...

Food banks in London reach breaking point as usage skyrockets | North West Londoner

Food bank usage across London has increased more than fivefold in the last decade, while the number of food bank locations has failed to keep pace, according to new data.


The distribution of food parcels at Trussell Trust food banks during the 2024/25 period was the highest on record, surpassing even COVID-19 levels.


Food banks distributed over 450,000 food parcels this year, a 431% increase on the 86,000 distributed in 2017-18. 


The number of Trussell Trust food banks has not matched t...

Pedro puts up its gloves: Hackney youth and boxing club stages activity day to raise refurbishment funds | North East Londoner

In its fight for refurbishment, one of London’s oldest youth clubs opened its doors to the community for a fundraising activity day.Pedro Youth and Boxing Club in Hackney, founded in 1929 by Baroness Harwood, is a vital component of this community. New chair Derek Williams said: “Pedro club is a beacon of the community, a refuge for those who need companionship.”The Club and its members were devastated when their former chairman, ex-boxing champion James Cook MBE, died of cancer in June.Yet the...

TfL shortlists Putney Bridge station for accessibility study after years of campaigning

Transport for London (TfL) has announced the shortlist of the next stations to undergo an accessibility study to become ‘step-free’.


TfL has published a list of 17 shortlisted stations that will now undergo accessibility feasibility studies, as part of the Step-Free Access programme, including Putney Bridge, East Putney and Edgware Road.


Accessibility feasibility studies assess the viability of installing access upgrades at relevant stations, based on whether installing lifts is possible a...

‘Dear Suella, try living for a week in Rwandan centre’

YOUNG people challenged the home secretary to live for a week in Rwanda at a Camden children’s charity event at the House of Lords.
Teenagers supported by Coram, based in King’s Cross, had joined the campaign event against the Illegal Migration Bill last Wednesday.
The Bill would see people coming to this country claiming asylum without prior permission flown out to temporary facilities in the East African country Rwanda.
Amina Meshnuni, in a message for Suella Braverman, said: “T...

VALENCIA’S GRAFFITIED STREETS: ARTWORKS AND EYESORES • 24/7 Valencia

Valencia is a city that bears the marks of many peoples and ages. The Romans left their imprint on the city by giving it its name “Valentia”. The Visigoths left behind cathedrals and the Moors made their mark with language, architecture and cuisine. The modern inhabitants of Valencia, or at least a specific section of them, are no different, determined to leave their own mark upon the city.
Are you in Valencia? Good, you’ve made the right choice. Go out your front door and walk down any street y...

History

London's forgotten flood: 50 years since the Hampstead Storm

On the afternoon of 14 August 1975, as part of a developing thunderstorm across eastern England, the clouds split apart and unleashed a downpour on North London.
The storm was triggered by a combination of a slow-moving low-pressure system, a frontal system near the United Kingdom, a low-pressure system over France, and warm air from the continent.
It had been an exceptionally hot summer that year, with the UK receiving less than half the usual rainfall. B...

FOOD, LANGUAGE AND ARCHITECTURE: THE REMNANTS OF MUSLIM VALENCIA • 24/7 Valencia

However the walls that have seen the rise and fall of empires, caliphates and kingdoms almost came crashing down, never to endure to this modern age. The first emir of Cordoba, Abd al-Rahman I, ordered the city destroyed in 755. Luckily for all of us in love with Valencia’s vibrant energy and culture, these orders were never carried out and several years later his son, Abd Allah, had a form of autonomous rule over the province of Valencia. He established a palace on the outskirts of the old city...

LA RIADA DE VALENCIA: THE FLOOD THAT SUBMERGED A CITY • 24/7 Valencia

Just like all cities built on the banks of rivers, Valencia suffered an eternal paradox: a river is a source of life and economic prosperity, but also the source of serious damage from sporadic flooding. In the autumn of 1957, what had once been a trickling brook winding through mudflats, broke its banks after a weekend of torrential rain, sweeping through Valencia’s streets, leaving devastation in its wake. Residents were forced to climb up buildings, lampposts and statues to escape the clutchi...

VALENCIA’S TRIBUNAL DE LES AIGUES: EUROPE’S OLDEST LEGAL BODY • 24/7 Valencia

The court’s primary concerns are issues of stolen water amongst Valencia’s farmers, when water is being used by a farmer when it is not their turn to irrigate their crops, a serious issue in drought-prone Spain and the irregular amounts of water provided by the River Turia. Issues have also occurred of farmers’ building works polluting the water channels, which are also brought swiftly before the court. Disputes can occur at any point throughout the year but they are more frequent during drought...

Food

A PLETHORA OF PAELLA • 24/7 Valencia

This dish stems from humble peasant origins with paddy field workers using the rice, beneath their feet, as the basis for their midday meal. Under the famous Valencian orange groves, these workers would use whatever they had to hand, whether that was duck or rabbit or chicken or seafood and cook it in the paellera, the pan which gives the dish its name. Now it has achieved international fame and is not only synonymous with its birthplace of Valencia but also with Spanish gastronomy as a whole. T...

WINNER OF THE PREMI CACAU D’OR ANNOUNCED • 24/7 Valencia

The eighth edition of the Premis Cacau D’Or has distinguished the best lunches of the Valencian community, adding 10 names to the list of restaurants that practise the gastronomic tradition of l’esmorzar in the most genuine way and with the best culinary offering. This edition of the Premi Cacau D’Or Especial Amstel attempts to educate on the importance of using local products and techniques in hospitality, especially when dealing with such a genuine tradition.  Its aim is not only to promote a...

TEN FINALISTS BATTLE IT OUT IN THE FINAL OF THE SOM ESMORZADORS COOKING COMPETITION   • 24/7 Valencia

In Valencia’s La Feria exhibition centre, Amstel’s live cooking competition  to create a new Valencian sandwich that displays all the most authentic values of the Valencian gastronomic culture, reached its delicious conclusion
La Gastrónoma, the Valencian high cuisine showcase, was the stage for the live cooking competition this week, surrounding the tradition of l’esmorzar, one of the most popular and authentic Valencian traditions. As one of the judging panel replied when asked how important t...

LIDL REINVENTS THE CHRISTMAS TABLE WITH THE GYOZA DELUXE • 24/7 Valencia

Changes in consumption habits have led to international dishes being introduced to Spanish Christmas tables, a trend which has been increasing in recent years. Following the success of Lidl’s Roscón de Reyes created by Carlos Maldonado, winner of MasterChef3 and owner of the Raíces restaurant, Lidl and the Michelin Star chef have collaborated again to create the Deluxe Gyoza. The innovative and unique limited edition Deluxe Gyoza created by Maldonaldo can be found in two varieties: a salad with...

Lindt Chocolate Launches its First Vegan Chocolate Bar in Spain • 24/7 Valencia

The Swiss purveyor of premium chocolate continues to delight chocolate lovers everywhere with its creamy and delicious chocolates, now with a vegan alternative. The new product “Lindt Original Vegan Recipe” can be found in two different flavours: Lindt Vegan Original and Lindt Vegan Hazelnut.
For the World Veganism Day event on the First of November, Lindt & Sprüngili have launched their first line of vegan chocolate bars. Looking to respond to the ever growing demand for vegan products, Lindt’s...

TV & Movies

Bettany Hughes' Treasures of the World to return this week - Wanderlust

Renowned historian and Wanderlust contributing editor Bettany Hughes is set to return to our screens soon with the latest instalment of her Channel 4 series Treasures of the World.
 
Working together with historians, archaeologists and other experts, Hughes shares her exclusive access to new digs and discoveries with viewers, taking armchair travellers on a voyage of historical discovery.
 
Now in its fourth season, Treasures of the World will cover destinations in Europe, Central Asia and the M...

The Hobbit: 10 Best Quotes From The Movies

Before Frodo and Sam, Pippin and Merry, there was Bilbo, Gandalf, and the Company of Thorin Oakenshield. The events of The Hobbit laid the foundation for The Lord of the Rings, and Bilbo's theft of the One Ring from Gollum is what kickstarts Hobbit involvement in the final war against Sauron. The Hobbit trilogy greatly expands on the original book, featuring details from the appendices to the LOTR series. RELATED: Every Important Quest of Middle Earth Would Have Failed If Not For Hobbits W...

Firefly: The 5 Best Episodes Of The Sci-Fi Classic

So many shows have been canceled before their time, yet the cult Sci-Fi classic Firefly is perhaps one of the hardest to swallow. This genre-blending of Sci-Fi and Western, spaceships and cowboy-like characters, was not really given a chance to succeed by the executives at Fox. The network aired the show on the Friday night death slot and putting out its episodes in the wrong order, forcing producer Joss Whedon to do a flashback episode halfway through the season to explain who all the character...

Lord Of The Rings: Aragorn’s 10 Best Quotes From The Movies

From stoic ranger to noble king, Aragorn’s journey in The Lord of the Rings is extremely moving and compelling. Viggo Mortensen excelled in this role, truly embodying Tolkien’s character and adding so much to the role. RELATED: Who Is The Ultimate Warrior For Middle Earth? Full of sword skill, loyalty, and courage, Aragorn has been a fan favorite since the movies first came out. His inspirational speeches are second only to Theoden’s legendary speech at Pelennor fields, and Aragorn's compa...

Quantum Leap: The 9 Best Episodes of Scott Bakula's Time Travelling Saga

With the sequel to the 90s American Science Fiction series Quantum Leap airing in 2022, it has caused fans to compare it to the original. Created by Donald P. Bellisario, the series starred Scott Bakula as quantum physicist Dr. Sam Beckett. Theorizing that he could travel through time within his own lifetime, Beckett invents a time machine and tests the program before it is ready, against the advice of hybrid supercomputer ‘Ziggy’. Sam is catapulted through space-time and stuck temporarily inhab...

Harry Potter: 24 Funniest Quotes

Harry Potter is undeniably one of the most influential and successful franchises the world has ever seen, with fans regularly reading and re-reading the books and rewatching the movies. Despite the darkness of these films, especially in the later installments, they still provide viewers with moments of humor and amusement. These moments helped Harry Potter find its place in the hearts of millions across the globe. With such a colorful cast of characters, it should come as no surprise that many o...

Vikings: 14 Strongest Fighters

Vikings has been a fan favorite for many years, consistently delivering high-quality TV, along with some incredible and complex characters providing some truly inspired performances. Full of drama, action, and intrigue, Vikings has had its viewers locked in from the very beginning. While the show has undoubtedly taken liberties with historical accuracy in its portrayal of the life of Ragnar Lothbrok, it's undeniably stayed true to the viciousness and brutality that was part of everyday life d...

The Last Kingdom: 10 Things Missing From The Series

Based on Bernard Cornwell's book series The Saxon Stories, The Last Kingdom has been a hit period drama. With its first two seasons airing on BBC, the show was purchased by Netflix in 2018. The Last Kingdom tells the tale of Uhtred, a Northumbrian Lord during the Viking invasions of Britain in the 9th century. RELATED: The Last Kingdom: The Best Quotes In The Series So Far The books and show depict this Saxon boy's childhood among the Danes; becoming one of them, worshiping their gods, and...

Harry Potter: 10 Great Quotes That Are Only In The Books

Making books into movies is never easy, there are always things missed out, things that can’t translate from the written to the visual medium, and scenes which couldn't be fit in due to the time constraints of a feature film. Related: Harry Potter: Characters That Are Far More Important In The Books Than The Movies The Harry Potter movies were no different. So many great scenes, characters and lines that filled readers with laughter, inspiration and joy were left out of the final movies du...

The 8 Strongest Fighters of Vikings: Valhalla

After the fall of Rome and during the Dark Ages, the world was a brutal and violent place, where the strong survived and preyed on the weak. Violence was common and there were battles a-plenty. Netflix’s Vikings: Valhalla focuses on Northern Europe at the arrival of the 10th century, a time of great political and religious turmoil. RELATED: The Ancient Epic That Inspired The Northman To survive and thrive in these times, you needed to be a strong and capable fighter, not just with a sword...

10 Best Episodes of Star Trek: Voyager

Star Trek: Voyager made history with its first female Captain in the form of Katherine Janeway, played by Kate Mulgrew. Transported across the galaxy by a mysterious entity, the crew of the Intrepid Class ship, the USS Voyager, must make their journey home across unknown space. Voyager has arguably one of the best theme tunes of any of the Star Trek series, a swelling orchestral number that fills audiences with hope for the Voyager crew on their long journey. Spanning seven years, this series...

Technology

Why Combine Artificial Intelligence with Additive Manufacturing? - AMFG

Report by Danny Weller
In an ever-progressing world, many companies are leveraging digitization and automation for additive manufacturing advancement. More and more manufacturers are turning to cloud-based solutions and integrated algorithms in 3D printing maximize its potential in Industry 4.0. As part of this digital realm, 3D printing aligns with AI, like machine learning, in optimizing the value chain. AI’s rapid data processing capacity makes it a crucial decision-making tool. Machine learn...

Will Additive Manufacturing Power the Evolution of Nuclear Energy? - AMFG

Report by Danny Weller
Fukushima. Chornobyl. Three Mile Island. All stark reminders that nuclear energy has the potential to be catastrophic. Stringent security measures are in place to prevent repeats of these disasters and the materials used in constructing reactor cores and nuclear fuel pellets are meticulously chosen. They must be robust enough to withstand the extreme environment of a nuclear reactor. 
However, many experts believe that 3D printing technology is capable of creating these ma...

Safeguarding CNC Machines in Networked IT/OT Environments - AMFG

Report by Danny Weller
Navigating the intersection of Informational Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT) environments can be a tricky business. Safeguarding CNC machines in this space is an essential process. Striking a balance between advancing intelligence and efficiency while mitigating the risks of exposing OT systems to the broader digital landscape is crucial. Explore the intricacies with our insightful guide.
IT/OT networking stands as a pivotal element in the realm of Industry...

Machine Shop Essentials to Stay Competitive - AMFG

Report by Danny Weller
To remain competitive in today’s manufacturing landscape and optimize production processes, relying solely on a standard three-axis CNC mill or two-axis CNC lathe, along with basic measuring tools, is no longer sufficient.
Over the past 50 years, the essential technology required for a modern machine shop has undergone significant transformations. Gone are the days of manual milling machines, lathes, and drill presses being the primary tools. Embracing CNC-powered equipmen...

What is Swiss Machining? - AMFG

A Swiss CNC machine, also referred to as a Swiss-type lathe or Swiss automatic lathe, is a cutting-edge precision manufacturing tool. This advanced machine excels in swiftly and precisely crafting minute components with remarkable efficiency.
From spinal implants and medical tools to miniature aerospace components, ultra-precise parts are vital for the smooth operation of critical aspects in today’s world. Crafting these minuscule components with near-perfect tolerances demands cutting-edge mach...

Increasing Productivity with 5-axis Machining - AMFG

Report by Danny Weller
In 5-axis machining, programmers harness the potential of the three linear axes alongside two of the rotary axes: A (rotational movement around the X-axis), B (rotational movement around the Y-axis), and/or C (rotational movement around the Z-axis).
Multiaxis machining involves the dynamic movement of a cutting machine, significantly expanding its capabilities beyond the basic linear axes (X, Y, and Z). A multiaxis machining center offers the flexibility to maneuver eithe...

What is Material Requirements Planning? - AMFG

Material Requirements Planning (MRP) is an essential system for efficiently determining the necessary materials and components to produce a product. 
This process involves three crucial phases: assessing current inventory, pinpointing required additional resources, and effectively managing their production or procurement. 
MRP assures that materials and components will be available when needed, minimizes inventory levels, reduces customer lead times, and improves customer satisfaction.
 
 
Mater...

Latest Developments in Additive Manufacturing: November 2023 - AMFG

The Additive Manufacturing landscape is constantly evolving, with new developments and innovations reshaping the future. From new software and 3D printing machines, to 3d- printed weapons systems and water taxis, additive manufacturing is shaping the future of the manufacturing industry, and the world.
Read on to discover all the latest advancements this month.
Additive manufacturing has made a splash in the maritime sector, shaping vessels from kayaks to opulent super yachts. While renowned for...

CNC Machining Materials: Make The Right Choice - AMFG

CNC machining is inarguably the lifeblood of the manufacturing industry with applications such as aerospace, medical devices, and electronics. In recent years, there have been incredible advancements in the field of CNC machining materials. Their wide portfolio now offers great combinations of material properties, cost, and aesthetics.
In this article, we will delve into the diverse world of CNC materials, and provide you with a comprehensive guide to selecting the right materials for CNC machin...

CNC Machining Quality Control: Strategies for Precision & Quality - AMFG

Computer numerical control (CNC) machines have become standard fare in the machining industry. Their accuracy, speed, and ease of use make them indispensable tools for manufacturers. Yet nothing is perfect. Quality control remains an essential element in catching and preventing defects.
Although errors are much less likely with CNC machining than with traditional manual manufacturing processes, they can still occur. These errors can have significant knock-on effects, including bottlenecks, and w...

How to Improve Accuracy and Speed in CNC Machining with Quoting Software - AMFG

Machine shops encounter a wide array of obstacles, and among the most critical is enhancing the accuracy of their quoting process. Estimators invest significant hours in meticulously crafting quotes, only to later discover that the production of a particular component is hindered by a specific callout or a buried line item within the RFQ. 
These challenges may lead to:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
With quoting software, you can ensure reduced quoting times, more accurate quotes with reduced chances...

How Digital Quotation Can Accelerate CNC Machining Revenue - AMFG Whitepaper

When you visit any website, it may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. This information might be about you, your preferences or your device and is mostly used to make the site work as you expect it to. The information does not usually directly identify you, but it can give you a more personalized web experience.

When you visit any website, it may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. This information might be abou...

What’s the difference between 3, 4 & 5 Axis CNC Milling? - AMFG

Recent years have witnessed significant advancements in parts manufacturing techniques, driven by the ever-evolving demands of diverse production sectors. Among these techniques, machining stands out as a fundamental method, involving the precise removal of material to fashion high-accuracy components.
Now, let’s delve into the distinctions between 3, 4, and 5-axis CNC milling. Discovering the right choice for your CNC machining projects—whether it’s a 3-axis, 4-axis, or 5-axis CNC machine—is a...

When Should You Combine 3D Printing and CNC Machining? - AMFG

Report by Danny Weller
3D printing has transformed the world of prototyping, assembly, and manufacturing in unprecedented ways. The CNC machining industry has seen remarkable growth, with its market value already exceeding $81 billion. Projections indicate that this thriving sector is set to surpass the $126 billion mark by 2028. So when should you combine 3D printing and CNC Machining?
Nowadays, most designs that reach the production stage have injection molding and CNC machining as their basis...

CNC Machining: A Path to Sustainability - AMFG

The Computer Numerical Coding (CNC) Machining industry has seen remarkable growth, with its market value already exceeding $81 billion. Projections indicate that this thriving sector is set to surpass the $126 billion mark by 2028. As the demand for CNC machines continues to surge, one critical question looms large: what is the environmental footprint of CNC machinery, and what can be done to make it more sustainable?
In an era where sustainability is a global imperative, industry must be aware...

The Latest Developments in Additive Manufacturing: October 2023 - AMFG

Report by Danny Weller
3D printing and additive manufacturing are revolutionizing global industries. They are reshaping traditional production methods, enhancing supply chain resilience, and expediting the introduction of new products.
In addition to these advantages, additive manufacturing also supports sustainability objectives. Businesses can now create precise product quantities, minimizing material waste compared to conventional manufacturing. This approach not only caters to market demand...