News.Life

TotalEnergies Caps Three Major Global Renewable Energy Deals

Unknown alternative energy, energy sector, energy sustainability, europe, renewable energy

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  <p>
   <p>
    – Europe: 500 MW installed or underway with over 15 GW of solar and wind projects in development
   </p>
   <p>
    – Africa: 255 MW installed in Uganda with an additional 560 MW from hydropower projects
   </p>
   <p>
    — Canada: 180 MW installed with over 600 MW of solar and wind projects underway
   </p>
  </p>
  <p>
   <strong>
    Paris —
   </strong>
   In accordance with the accords finalized in 2024, TotalEnergies has confirmed the completion of its purchases of VSB Group—a major European firm focused on developing wind and solar energy solutions, notably within Germany—and SN Power, an entity specializing in hydroelectric power development across Africa, specifically in Uganda. Additionally, TotalEnergies disclosed fresh arrangements with renewable-energy company RES aimed at procuring renewable projects located in Alberta, alongside concluding their initial project purchase.
  </p>
  <p>
   Europe: TotalEnergies has closed the acquisition of VSB, and is strengthening its integrated electricity business, particularly in Germany
  </p>
  <p>
   This agreement bolsters TotalEnergies' comprehensive electrical operations in Germany, covering roughly fifty percent of VSB's assets. It complements their recent purchases of Kyon Energy, a company specializing in battery storage development, and Quadra Energy, an energy management firm, along with the firm's existing investments in offshore wind projects within the nation.
  </p>
  <p>
   VSB's extensive portfolio exceeding 15 GW will boost TotalEnergies' renewable energy capabilities in Europe, pushing their total capacity beyond 40 GW, on top of the existing 7 GW either operational or under development. Considering its focused approach towards specific major European markets, the company plans to initiate the sale process for the VSB-developed Puutionsaari project in Finland, which includes both wind and solar components totaling 440 MW.
  </p>
  <p>
   In Africa, TotalEnergies has completed the purchase of SN Power and is now working towards executing its diversified energy strategy, with specific focus on operations in Uganda.
  </p>
  <p>
   The acquisition of SN Power will allow TotalEnergies to implement its multi-energy strategy in Uganda, where the Company is already active in exploration and production. The Bujagali hydropower plant (225 MW), for example, meets more than 25% of the country’s peak electricity demand. The transaction gives TotalEnergies a 28.3% stake in Bujagali, currently operating in Uganda, and a stake in two other projects under development in Rwanda (206 MW) and Malawi (360 MW). The deal also gives TotalEnergies a team of hydropower development experts, strengthening its competencies in this field.
  </p>
  <p>
   Canada: TotalEnergies has signed agreements to acquire certain wind and solar projects and closed the acquisition of a solar farm in Alberta
  </p>
  <p>
   The Company has signed agreements with RES to acquire certain wind and solar projects under development in Alberta, amounting to total capacity of more than 800 MW. TotalEnergies has also just closed the acquisition of Big Sky Solar (184 MW), a solar facility in Alberta that was commissioned at the end of February. More than two thirds of the electricity produced by Big Sky Solar will be sold under a long-term power purchase agreement (PPA). The remainder will be sold on the electricity market by TotalEnergies, which will also sell the carbon credits generated by the facility under Alberta’s regulated carbon emissions program.
  </p>
  <p>
   “The completion of these three acquisitions in Europe, North America and Africa will contribute to our targets of 35 GW of gross renewable capacity by 2025 and over 100 TWh of electricity production by 2030”, said Stéphane Michel, President, Gas, Renewables and Power at TotalEnergies. “These acquisitions strengthen our operations in markets where we are deploying our Integrated Power business, like Germany and in North America, and in countries, such as Uganda, where we can leverage synergies with our exploration and production activities. Furthermore, these acquisitions will contribute to cash flow growth and to our goal of reaching our 12% profitability target in the electricity segment.”
  </p>
 </div>
</div>
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.
Syndigate.info
).

TotalEnergies Caps Three Major Global Renewable Energy Deals

Unknown alternative energy, energy sector, energy sustainability, europe, renewable energy

– Europe: 500 MW installed or underway with over 15 GW of solar and wind projects in development – Africa: 255 MW installed in Uganda with an additional 560 MW from hydropowe…

NATO Allies Steel Themselves as US Senator Marco Rubio Delivers Tough Messages

Unknown europe, foreign policy, international relations, nato, politics

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1Caz38" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1Caz38.jpg"/>
<p>
 NATO partners are preparing for significant 'rebalancing' in their role to safeguard Europe, yet according to diplomats speaking to DIwida.Blog just before an important gathering in Brussels, this shift in responsibilities is vital to ensure continued American participation in the alliance.
</p>
<p>
 US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is in Brussels on Thursday and Friday attending his first meeting of NATO foreign affairs ministers where he’s expected to hammer home US demands that the burden of security and defence of the alliance has ‘shifted’ to Europeans.
</p>
<p>
 However, Europe will also send this message to him: attempting to act independently without the backing of its 31 allies is not advisable.
</p>
<p>
 The message from Rubio will be straightforward: Europeans must assume greater responsibility for their own conventional defense so that America can deploy its military resources elsewhere. Additionally, they aim for European countries to increase their defense spending to 5%. A senior NATO official familiar with the matter shared this information with DIwida.Blog.
</p>
<p>
 "To maintain America’s position within the alliance, burden shifting must occur," the official stated.
</p>
<p>
 The allies are preparing for a reduction in the number of U.S. troops deployed across Europe as part of their NATO commitments.
</p>
<p>
 At present, approximately 100,000 troops are safeguarding NATO territories, and member nations are contemplating whether the US might decrease these numbers by roughly 20,000 to 50,000 soldiers.
</p>
<p>
 The US has provided no official sign of this, but Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth cautioned last month that "one cannot assume America's presence will endure indefinitely."
</p>
<p>
 "We require American forces in Europe – currently at 100,000 troops, yet I believe this figure will diminish; having just half of them would suffice," stated a diplomat before today’s summit.
</p>
<p>
 The impact of the US unwinding its presence after years of engagement would be severe but allies also say that if and when an announcement comes, they expect to be fully informed directly, and not find out from the media.
</p>
<p>
 Moreover, a European diplomat has told DIwida.Blogthat it would be "hard to digest" if an announcement emerged from US talks with Russia.
</p>
<p>
 "If they do it, then the US scale back in an orderly way – we don’t want to read in the press that they’re pulling out, we need a process," the diplomat said, adding: "And It would be very dramatic if it was a result of negotiations with Moscow – that would be hard to digest."
</p>
<p>
 Despite recent confrontations from the Trump administration towards Europe, NATO allies said US membership and commitment is indispensable for NATO deterrence.
</p>
<p>
 "But we will have to drastically step up," said the diplomat.
</p>
<p>
 Although Rubio intends to present a clear message to the Europeans, the foreign affairs ministers plan to inform him that the perceived shift of US focus away from its customary allies may not be advantageous as the country redirects its attention towards addressing challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.
</p>
<p>
 "We will inform him that now is not the appropriate time for going solo; the benefit of remaining aligned with Europe compared to leaning toward China and Russia is having 32 robust democracies supporting us; Europe purchases significantly from US corporations – our imports from America far exceed those from Europe," stated the diplomat.
</p>
<p>
 Various European diplomats have informed DIWIDA.Blog that they do not anticipate the threatening statements from the Trump administration about annexing Greenland—a self-governing part of Denmark—or incorporating Canada as the 51st U.S. state will be central topics of conversation. However, Secretary of State Rubio is scheduled to hold a one-on-one meeting with Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen.
</p>
<p>
 When faced with the requirements outlined by the Trump administration, which will also be supported by Rubio, Rutte informed reporters, “let’s take pleasure in the achievement of having collectively invested €700 billion euros since 2017.”
</p>
<p>
 President Trump and US Defense Secretary Hegseth have stated that NATO expenditure must significantly rise from 2% to 5% of GDP, placing considerable strain on member countries like Spain, Italy, and Belgium, all of which currently fall short of the current target.
</p>
<p>
 Europe must "evaluate precisely the objectives we aim to reach and identify the gaps present," he stated, further noting: "There is a requirement for enhanced long-range capabilities, improved air defense systems, and increased investment in our military forces."
</p>
<p>
 When examining the overall figure, one can deduce that allies will need to spend well over 3% to achieve those goals.
</p>

NATO Allies Steel Themselves as US Senator Marco Rubio Delivers Tough Messages

Unknown europe, foreign policy, international relations, nato, politics

NATO partners are preparing for significant 'rebalancing' in their role to safeguard Europe, yet according to diplomats speaking to DIwida.Blog just before an important gathering in Brussels, this s…

Europe's Chance to Welcome Americans Fleeing Trump: Ready for a "Brain Gain"?

Unknown europe, immigrants, immigration, medicine and healthcare, politics

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1ComEi" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1ComEi.jpg"/>
<p>
 Russian-American *Julia had wanted to leave the United States for a couple of years, but the start of President Donald Trump’s second term forced her to start taking the idea seriously.
</p>
<p>
 “I observed that individuals like myself—immigrants—were much more concerned following the election,” she explained to Euronews Next. “The warning signs became evident immediately.”
</p>
<p>
 The anesthesiologist played a key role during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in New York City but now aims to secure a position within the pharmaceuticals or biotechnology sector somewhere in Europe.
</p>
<div class="c-widget-related">
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   How will the new American tariffs affect Europeans' finances?
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 </ul>
</div>
<p>
 Euronews Next agreed to change her name  to protect her identity while she looks for work overseas.
</p>
<p>
 Julia is one of dozens of people who posted on the Reddit channel Amer/Exit, a play on words referring to Brexit, the UK’s departure from the European Union. Like her, users of the subreddit are trying to figure out how to leave the US for Europe or Canada in the wake of Trump’s second mandate.
</p>
<p>
 Experts say it’s "too early" to tell whether this could be considered a "brain drain" but that the EU needs to prepare.
</p>
<h2>
 'We just could not keep up with the calls'
</h2>
<p>
 Arielle Tucker is the founder of Connected Financial Planning, a company that helps Americans relocate to Europe.
</p>
<p>
 Tucker received more than 30 new American clients in the week after Trump’s reelection, a level of interest that’s been sustained throughout the last few months.
</p>
<p>
 Many of Tucker’s clients are in their mid-30s or early 40s and work in executive roles in tech, pharmaceuticals or finance.
</p>
<div class="widget widget--type-quotation widget--size-fullwidth widget--align-center">
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   <blockquote class="widget__quote">
    <span>
     The overall sense that I got from a lot of those individuals was they felt like they couldn’t control anything and they had to do something. We just could not keep up with the calls.
    </span>
   </blockquote>
   <div class="widget__authorText">
    Arielle Tucker
   </div>
   <div class="widget__author_descriptionText">
    Founder, Connected Financial Planning
   </div>
  </div>
 </div>
</div>
<p>
 "The overall sense that I got from a lot of those individuals was they felt like they couldn’t control anything and they had to do something," Tucker said. "We just could not keep up with the calls".
</p>
<p>
 They are working for multinationals with offices in Europe or can self-finance their move from a major American city like New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, or Boston.
</p>
<p>
 Her clients thought about a move "passively" for a while but then they "realised they just do not like the political climate in the US".
</p>
<p>
 Alex Ingrim, founder of wealth management firm Liberty Atlantic Advisors, said more clients are contacting him with their visa processes well underway.
</p>
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   Working in Europe: How can social mobility boost the continent's economy?
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<p>
 His clients skew older, from the mid-40s to 60-plus who are either working "digital nomad" jobs in tech, venture capital, or planning for retirement.
</p>
<p>
 "A lot of people feel that the longer they stay in the US, the more uncertain they are about what the quality of life is going to be and how that might affect their financial well-being," Ingrim said.
</p>
<p>
 Where they go depends on what they do, Tucker said, but it’s often a game of "whack-a-mole" where they try to find the best immigration opportunity for their clients.
</p>
<p>
 Countries like Spain, Portugal, Switzerland, and Germany are becoming especially popular with Americans, Tucker and Ingrim said.
</p>
<h2>
 Europe has a 'real opportunity' to market to Americans
</h2>
<p>
 Tucker believes European companies have a "real opportunity" to market to Americans to help them fill expertise in missing sectors, like the IT sector, AI, and pharmaceuticals.
</p>
<p>
 But one of the biggest barriers for Americans coming to Europe is a change in their salaries, Ingrim said.
</p>
<p>
 "As he pointed out, you come across statistics such as those in Paris where wages could be just one-third of what they typically are in cities like Los Angeles or San Francisco." He continued, “This seems to pose a financial obstacle when considering how it will impact my future prospects.”
</p>
<p>
 Federico Steinberg, a senior economist and international trade specialist at the Elcano Royal Institute in Spain, suggested that businesses should provide American workers with better compensation packages, including increased salaries or additional perks such as housing support, to encourage career transitions.
</p>
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   <blockquote class="widget__quote">
    <span>
     If Europe wishes to remain appealing, it possesses the potential. With its balanced approach to work and life, rich cultural offerings, and ample leisure activities, the key lies in providing robust career prospects.
    </span>
   </blockquote>
   <div class="widget__authorText">
    Federico Steinberg
   </div>
   <div class="widget__author_descriptionText">
    Lead Economist and Specialist in International Trade at the Elcano Royal Institute
   </div>
  </div>
 </div>
</div>
<p>
 Steinberg said a clear long-term picture from the company for that person’s career past a five-year visa is also worthwhile.
</p>
<p>
 "Europe, if it wants to become attractive, it has the potential," Steinberg said. "It has the work-life balance, it has the culture, the leisure part… so it’s all about the career opportunities".
</p>
<p>
 It can also be complicated for Americans to move abroad because of a tax structure that makes it difficult for banks to work with them, Tucker added.
</p>
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<p>
 Tucker mentioned that if an American plans to save for retirement using a non-U.S. pension, they often face "substantial U.S. tax implications" as a result.
</p>
<p>
 Ingrim mentioned that certain European financial institutions are attempting to establish a marketplace aimed at assisting these Americans.
</p>
<p>
 “Prior to the arrival of COVID-19 and before the initial term of the Trump administration, most financial service providers were unwilling to cater to Americans as our numbers weren't significant enough,” he explained. “These days, however, I receive inquiries regarding this matter monthly.”
</p>
<p>
 To further mitigate this, Steinberg said the EU could consider a short-term tax incentive to attract top talent, like is already done for top athletes.
</p>
<h2>
 'I can imagine myself being there'
</h2>
<p>
 In New York City, Julia mentioned that she feels fine with taking about one and a half years to prepare for the move since she believes in thoroughly considering her choice.
</p>
<p>
 She’s considering Denmark, Germany, or Switzerland because she has transferable skills for many of their pharmaceutical jobs.
</p>
<p>
 Her parents are also planning their retirement in Portugal, so moving to Europe would bring her closer to them.
</p>
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   Five years on, did the COVID pandemic have a lasting effect on how we work in Europe?
  </li>
 </ul>
</div>
<p>
 She’s worried, however, that a new move could leave her feeling isolated, lonely and lost, even though she wants to settle in a vibrant city where she could meet new people.
</p>
<p>
 Despite these issues, there’s very little that would convince her to stay, except for if the "whole administration gets impeached or fired".
</p>
<p>
 “I could picture myself over in Europe,” she remarked. “The job listings make me feel quite enthusiastic.”
</p>
<p>
 *The interviewee requested that her name be altered to maintain her privacy.
</p>

Europe's Chance to Welcome Americans Fleeing Trump: Ready for a "Brain Gain"?

Unknown europe, immigrants, immigration, medicine and healthcare, politics

Russian-American *Julia had wanted to leave the United States for a couple of years, but the start of President Donald Trump’s second term forced her to start taking the idea seriously. “I observed…

Oldest Known Human Face Unearthed: Ancient Bones Revealed in Spanish Cave

Unknown africa, archaeology, culture, europe, fossils

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AMopp" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AMopp.jpg"/>
<p>
 The bone pieces discovered in an old Spanish cave are from the most ancient human face found so far in Western Europe, according to researchers.
</p>
<p>
 The fossilized remnants consist of the left cheekbone and upper jaw of an adult from an extinct human species that inhabited and perished on the Iberian Peninsula roughly between 1.1 million and 1.4 million years ago.
</p>
<p>
 This finding indicates that at least two types of early humans inhabited the area during the early Pleistocene epoch, when the cave was located amidst lush woodlands teeming with fauna and crisscrossed by various waterways.
</p>
<p>
 "This study brings forth a fresh character into the narrative of human evolution in Europe," stated Dr. Rosa Huguet from the University of Rovira i Virgili located in southern Catalonia, who assisted in discovering the fossils within the Sima del Elefante (Elephant Pit) cave close to Atapuerca in Burgos.
</p>
<p>
 Early humans migrated to Eurasia from Africa at least 1.8 million years ago, as indicated by the evidence.
 five skulls
 originating from the era of Dmanisi in Georgia. These craniums are linked to Homo erectus, the initial ancient human species to migrate out of Africa.
</p>
<p>
 So far, the oldest human remains found in western Europe dated back to between 1.1 million and 1.2 million years ago.
 jawbone and teeth
 from Sima del Elefante.
 Younger human remains
 Discovered around 800,000 years ago, these remains were found within the Gran Dolina (Giant Sinkhole) cave nearby. Specific characteristics of these fossils prompted scientists to classify them as a separate species, known as Homo antecessor, also referred to as Pioneer Man.
</p>
<p>
 Writing in the journal
 Nature
 The Spanish team indicates that the most recent findings are more archaic compared to Homo antecessor but bear similarities to Homo erectus. Due to the ambiguity surrounding the fossil’s classification, they have labeled the species as Homo affinis erectus, highlighting its strong connection to this earlier form of humanity.
</p>
<p>
 <span>
  Related:
 </span>
 Where have they all vanished to? How Homo sapiens turned into the sole surviving human species.
</p>
<p>
 The Latin name is not the only one used for the remains, however. Informally, the researchers nicknamed the fossil “Pink” after Pink Floyd, whose album The Dark Side of the Moon translates to “La cara oculta de la luna”, where “cara oculta” means “hidden face”.
</p>
<p>
 Dr María Martinón-Torres, who leads the National Centre for Research on Human Evolution in Burgos, noted that one of Pink’s distinct features was her flatter nasal structure compared to Homo antecessor. Unlike this earlier species, Pink exhibited a more contemporary facial appearance along with pronounced nasal bones similar to those found in Homo sapiens.
</p>
<p>
 Chris Stringer, who leads research on human evolution at the Natural History Museum in London, stated that the fossil was "an extremely significant discovery." In 2023, Stringer along with several others made this identification.
 period of extreme cooling
 roughly 1.1 million years ago might have pushed early humans out of Western Europe, potentially accounting for the distinct population discovered at Sima del Elefante afterward.
</p>
<p>
 Excavations at Sima del Elefante paint a picture of lush meadows and woodlands more than 1.1m years ago with oaks, pines, juniper and hazel trees in abundance. Rivers cutting through the landscape drew water voles and mice, hippos, bison and deer. Quartz and flint tools have also been recovered alongside animal bones bearing cut marks from butchering.
</p>
<p>
 Further understanding of the Sima del Elefante way of life can be gleaned from a groove spanning part of a tooth’s surface in the Pink fossil. This marking, thought to represent wear caused by early use of primitive dental tools, provides additional clues about their habits.
</p>
<p>
 This marks another stride toward comprehending the early inhabitants of Europe," stated Dr José María Bermúdez de Castro, who co-directs the Atapuerca Project. "It appears that these initial humans bore similarities to those often categorized under Homo erectus. Nonetheless, the findings from the Sima del Elefante location exhibit a distinct set of characteristics. To form a firmer conclusion regarding their specific classification, additional fossils must be discovered at other contemporaneous sites.
</p>

Oldest Known Human Face Unearthed: Ancient Bones Revealed in Spanish Cave

Unknown africa, archaeology, culture, europe, fossils

The bone pieces discovered in an old Spanish cave are from the most ancient human face found so far in Western Europe, according to researchers. The fossilized remnants consist of the left cheekbon…

NATO Chief in Warsaw Warns: Devastating Response Awaits If Russia Strikes Poland

Unknown europe, international relations, national security, nato, news

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1BK3B2" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1BK3B2.jpg"/>
<p>
 NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte cautioned on Wednesday that the organization’s reaction to an assault on Poland or other member states by Russia would be ‘catastrophic.’
</p>
<p>
 During his one-day trip to Warsaw, Rutte issued this warning while calling for solidarity among European countries to enhance their military capabilities and defense sectors, echoing the U.S.'s push for Europe to shoulder more responsibility for its own security going forward.
</p>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/video/AA1BK1bA" data-reference="video"/>
<p>
 Should someone mistakenly believe that they could assault Poland without repercussions or launch an attack against another ally, our alliance will react with strong force.
</p>
<p>
 "Our reaction will be overwhelming," Rutte stated, flanking Poland's Prime Minister Donald Tusk during a press conference.
</p>
<p>
 This should be evident to Mr. Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin and to everyone considering an assault on us,” Rutte further stated.
</p>
<p>
 The warning from the NATO leader also comes at a time when confidence within the 32-member alliance has reached an all-time low, following the Trump administration's focus on prioritizing American security interests in Asia and along its own borders.
</p>
<p>
 Let me make myself perfectly clear: now is not the time for individual action. Neither Europe nor North America should act independently," Rutte stated during his address in Warsaw. "Given the magnitude of global security challenges, none of us can confront them alone.
</p>
<p>
 He commended Poland for being a dependable partner that significantly contributes to the collective finances.
</p>
<p>
 In turn, the Polish prime minister expressed gratitude to the NATO leader for supporting Operation Shield East, an initiative set forth from 2024 through 2028 aimed at bolstering Poland’s defenses against possible assaults and hybrid warfare threats.
</p>
<p>
 The initiative was launched within the Polish Ministry of National Defence due to Russian hostilities towards Ukraine and the escalating menace posed by Russia.
</p>
<p>
 "We assume complete responsibility for securing Poland's eastern frontier, not just for ourselves but also for our allies within Europe and NATO. It is crucial for me to receive a positive evaluation of this initiative from the Secretary General of NATO," Tusk stated.
</p>
<p>
 "The geographical features we possess are unique, as are our historical circumstances; regarding defense spending, we demonstrate a commitment unmatched by any other NATO nation at present," the leader of Poland’s administration further stated.
</p>
<p>
 Currently, Warsaw allocates over four percent of its GDP to defense, with projections for 2025 aiming to increase this figure to as much as five percent.
</p>

NATO Chief in Warsaw Warns: Devastating Response Awaits If Russia Strikes Poland

Unknown europe, international relations, national security, nato, news

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte cautioned on Wednesday that the organization’s reaction to an assault on Poland or other member states by Russia would be ‘catastrophic.’ During his one-day trip t…

Over 1,100 Detained in Turkey as Massive Protests Erupt Over Mayor's Arrest – Europe Live Update

Unknown europe, news, politics, politics and law, protests

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1BwTmS" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1BwTmS.jpg"/>
<p>
 <p>
  <strong class="last-updated">
   LIVE – Updated at 16:11
  </strong>
 </p>
</p>
<p>
 <div class="intro">
  <p>
   Tens of thousands gathered in Istanbul with unrest likely to continue over treatment of presidential challenger to Erdoğan.
  </p>
 </div>
 <div>
  <h2>
   Closing summary
  </h2>
  <div class="publish-info">
   <span>
    16:11
   </span>
  </div>
  <div class="post-body">
   <p>
    The Guardian’s live coverage of ongoing events across Europe is coming to an end for today. Protests continue throughout Turkey after
    <strong>
     Ekrem İmamoğlu –
    </strong>
    Istanbul’s mayor and top rival to president
    <strong>
     Recep Tayyip Erdoğan –
    </strong>
    was jailed yesterday. Here’s what else happened today:
   </p>
   <ul>
    <li>
     <p>
      <strong>
       Turkey’s interior minister said 1,133 people had been detained since protests i turkey began on 19 March.
      </strong>
      There have been large-scale demonstrations in cities across Turkey since last Wednesday.
     </p>
    </li>
    <li>
     <p>
      <strong>
       At least ten journalists were detained in Istanbul and Izmir following the protests.
      </strong>
      In a post on X, Turkish NGO Media and Law Studies Association said its legal unit was assisting the journalists.
     </p>
    </li>
    <li>
     <p>
      <strong>
       Germany called the jailing of Istanbul mayor and Turkish opposition leader Ekrem İmamoğlu “totally unacceptable” and said it was following the developments with “great concern”.
      </strong>
      “The arrest and suspension of the mayor of Istanbul is totally unacceptable. This must be clarified very quickly and transparently,” Chancellor
      <strong>
       Olaf Scholz’s
      </strong>
      spokesman
      <strong>
       Steffen Hebestreit
      </strong>
      told a press conference.
     </p>
    </li>
    <li>
     <p>
      <strong>
       Greenland’s prime minister Mute Egede accused Washington of interfering in its political affairs with the visit of an American delegation later this week to the Danish territory coveted by US president Donald Trump.
      </strong>
      Usha Vance, the wife of US Vice President JD Vance, will visit Greenland this week with her son and a US delegation including US national security adviser Mike Waltz.
     </p>
    </li>
    <li>
     <p>
      <strong>
       Families gathered to mark the 10-year anniversary of the Germanwings plane crash that killed 150 people in March 2015.
      </strong>
      Memorials took place at the German high school that lost many students to the disaster and also in Le Vernet, near the crash site in the French Alps.
     </p>
    </li>
    <li>
     <p>
      <strong>
       A nurse accused of murdering nine palliative care patients went on trial in Germany today, with prosecutors saying he played “master of life and death” over them.
      </strong>
      Prosecutors said the unnamed 44-year-old man injected a total of 26 patients with large doses of sedatives or painkillers, resulting in the deaths of nine.
     </p>
    </li>
    <li>
     <p>
      <strong>
       French actor Gerard Depardieu went on trial today over alleged sexual assaults on a film set.
      </strong>
      Prosecutors allege assaults against two women – whose full identities have not been revealed – took place during the filming in 2021 of Les Volets Verts (The Green Shutters). Depardieu denies any wrongdoing.
     </p>
    </li>
   </ul>
  </div>
 </div>
 <div>
  <h2>
   Erdoğan says protests have turned into 'movement of violence'
  </h2>
  <div class="publish-info">
   <span>
    15:32
   </span>
  </div>
  <div class="post-body">
   <p>
    Turkish president
    <strong>
     Recep Tayyip Erdoğan
    </strong>
    has slammed his opponents, saying protests against the jailing of Istanbul’s mayor, his main political rival, had turned into a “movement of violence”, Reuters reports.
   </p>
   <p>
    Speaking after a cabinet meeting in
    <strong>
     Ankara
    </strong>
    , Erdoğan added that the main opposition CHP was responsible for any property damage and harm to police officers during the protests, which have been taking place across the country since Istanbul mayor,
    <strong>
     Ekrem İmamoğlu
    </strong>
    was arrested last week. Erdoğan also said that their “show” would eventually end and they would feel ashamed for the “evil” they did to the country.
   </p>
   <p>
    Turkey has detained more than 1,100 people, including journalists, as demonstrations continue. The mayor’s imprisonment is widely regarded as a political move to remove a major challenger to Erdoğan from the next presidential race, currently scheduled for 2028.
   </p>
  </div>
 </div>
 <div>
  <h2>
  </h2>
  <div class="publish-info">
   <span>
    15:10
   </span>
  </div>
  <div class="post-body">
   <p>
    AFP gives more details on the German Last Generation protesters who were charged earlier today, including for “forming a criminal organisation”.
   </p>
   <p>
    The Munich Public Prosecutor’s Office confirmed it had filed the charges “against five members” of the movement, which reorganised into two groups earlier this year.
   </p>
   <p>
    Members of Last Generation released a statement saying they would contest the charges, calling them “an attack on civil society engagement as a cornerstone of democracy”.
   </p>
   <p>
    Founded in 2021, Last Generation mounted eye-catching, non-violent protests in Germany for several years calling for urgent action to combat climate change. These included throwing mashed potatoes at the glass protecting a Monet painting and repeatedly glueing themselves onto busy roads.
   </p>
   <p>
    The group’s members briefly halted airport traffic several times by breaking into airports and glueing themselves to the tarmac.
   </p>
   <p>
    In May last year, prosecutors in the state of Brandenburg said they had charged five members of the group with “forming a criminal organisation” in relation to protests at two oil refineries, Berlin airport and the Barberini Museum in Potsdam.
   </p>
  </div>
 </div>
 <div>
  <h2>
  </h2>
  <div class="publish-info">
   <span>
    14:44
   </span>
  </div>
  <div class="post-body">
   <p>
    French actor
    <strong>
     Gerard Depardieu
    </strong>
    went on trial today over alleged sexual assaults on a film set, in a case that placed one of France’s best-known movie stars at the heart of the country’s broader reckoning over sexual violence, Reuters reports.
   </p>
   <p>
    The trial, expected to last at least two days, and possibly more, was initially due to be held in October but was postponed due to Depardieu’s ill health.
   </p>
   <p>
    As he arrived, Depardieu, his hand on his lawyer’s shoulder, passed calmly past reporters, looking straight at the cameras without saying a word. His lawyer, Jeremie Assous, told reporters that the accusations were false and based on lies. “Truth is on our side,” he said.
   </p>
   <p>
    Prosecutors allege assaults against two women – whose full identities have not been revealed – took place during the filming in 2021 of Les Volets Verts (The Green Shutters).
   </p>
   <p>
    The prosecutors accuse Depardieu of groping one of the women, whom they named Amelie K, on the film set. Three people witnessed the scene, prosecutors say. They say the second woman was groped by Depardieu on set and in the street.
   </p>
   <p>
    Before the opening of the trial, some activists gathered outside the courthouse in northern Paris. A dozen activists from Bruit qui court, a collective of artist and activists, chanted: “Sexist violence, complicit judicial system.” Others held signs with various slogans criticising Depardieu.
   </p>
  </div>
 </div>
 <div>
  <h2>
  </h2>
  <div class="publish-info">
   <span>
    14:38
   </span>
  </div>
  <div class="post-body">
   <p>
    Protests are still under way in Turkey, with demonstrations likely to gear up later this evening.
   </p>
   <p>
    Earlier today students at the main universities in Istanbul and Ankara called for a boycott of lectures, according to AFP. Young protesters were also preparing to hold a rally at 14.00 GMT by Besiktas port on the Bosphorus, ahead of the main nightly rally outside City Hall at 17.30 GMT.
   </p>
   <p>
    Since last week, rallies have taken place in at least 55 of Turkey’s 81 provinces, or more than two-thirds of the country, according to a tally by AFP.
   </p>
  </div>
 </div>
 <div>
  <h2>
  </h2>
  <div class="publish-info">
   <span>
    13:54
   </span>
  </div>
  <div class="post-body">
   <p>
    German prosecutors have filed charges against five climate activists of the group Last Generation, including for forming a criminal organisation, AFP reports.
   </p>
   <p>
    The Munich Public Prosecutor’s Office confirmed it had “filed charges against five members of Last Generation with the State Security Chamber... for, among other things, forming a criminal organisation”.
   </p>
   <p>
    Climate activists from the group glued themselves to the tarmac at four German airports last August, forcing a temporary halt to flights as part of their campaign against fossil fuels.
   </p>
  </div>
 </div>
 <div>
  <h2>
   Turkey talks on hold after İmamoğlu's jailing, says Greece
  </h2>
  <div class="publish-info">
   <span>
    13:38
   </span>
  </div>
  <div class="post-body">
   <p>
    A meeting between
    <strong>
     Greece
    </strong>
    and
    <strong>
     Turkey
    </strong>
    was improbable to occur shortly after the incarceration of the Istanbul mayor
    <strong>
     Ekrem İmamoğlu
    </strong>
    A Greek government representative stated according to Reuters.
   </p>
   <p>
    Greece and Turkey, despite being NATO allies with a long-standing enmity, have been at odds for many years regarding their maritime borders in the Aegean Sea, air space, and the ethnically split island of Cyprus.
   </p>
   <p>
    Having agreed in 2023 to forge ahead with their relationship and repair diplomatic links, both nations planned to convene a high-level cooperation council later this year, potentially as soon as April, to address mutual concerns.
   </p>
   <p>
    However, the meeting was not expected to occur anytime soon, according to the Greek government spokesman.
    <strong>
     Pavlos Marinakis
    </strong>
    stated during a press conference on Monday, after the arrest of İmamoğlu, the president
    <strong>
     Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s
    </strong>
    main political rival.
   </p>
  </div>
 </div>
 <div>
  <h2>
   X allegedly suspends accounts of individuals linked with Turkey's opposition.
  </h2>
  <div class="publish-info">
   <span>
    13:37
   </span>
  </div>
  <div class="post-body">
   <p>
    <strong>
     Various opposition figures in Turkey have seen their X accounts temporarily halted due to civil unrest within the nation.
     Politico
     is reporting.
    </strong>
   </p>
   <p>
    Elon Musk’s social media platform has suspended the activity of “university-associated activist accounts, basically sharing protest information, locations for students to go,” Yusuf Can, coordinator and analyst at the Wilson Center’s Middle East Program, told Politico.
   </p>
   <p>
    He added that many of these accounts are “grassroots activists” with their followings in the low tens of thousands.
   </p>
   <p>
    Politico reports:
   </p>
   <blockquote class="quoted">
    <p>
     <p>
      The suspensions come after extensive demonstrations were sparked by the arrest earlier this week of Turkish President Tayyip Erdoğan’s main political rival, Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu. İmamoğlu was arrested just hours before he was nominated to be the presidential candidate for the main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP).
     </p>
     <p>
      The opposition protests have spread despite the government banning gatherings for four days.
     </p>
     <p>
      Much of the opposition activity has centered around universities, and many of those connected to the demonstrations are now finding their X accounts suspended, observers report.
     </p>
    </p>
   </blockquote>
  </div>
 </div>
 <div>
  <h2>
  </h2>
  <div class="publish-info">
   <span>
    13:31
   </span>
  </div>
  <div class="post-body">
   <p>
    A nurse accused of murdering nine palliative care patients went on trial in
    <strong>
     Germany
    </strong>
    today, with prosecutors saying he played “master of life and death” over them, AFP reports.
   </p>
   <p>
    Prosecutors said the unnamed 44-year-old man injected a total of 26 patients with large doses of sedatives or painkillers, resulting in the deaths of nine. His motive was allegedly to minimise his workload during his night shifts, prosecutors said at his trial in the western city of
    <strong>
     Aachen
    </strong>
    . He was employed in palliative care at a hospital in the nearby town of
    <strong>
     Wuerselen
    </strong>
    .
   </p>
   <p>
    The man allegedly injected the mostly elderly and terminally ill patients and then simply walked out of their rooms, the court heard.
   </p>
   <p>
    Prosecutors said he lacked motivation in his work and was “annoyed” by the patients, adding that he had considered himself their “master of life and death”.
   </p>
   <p>
    The nurse did not speak at the start of proceedings. Former colleagues will be called as witnesses in subsequent hearings. The trial’s end date is uncertain while investigations are ongoing.
   </p>
  </div>
 </div>
 <div>
  <h2>
  </h2>
  <div class="publish-info">
   <span>
    13:14
   </span>
  </div>
  <div class="post-body">
   <p>
    <strong>
     Are you in Turkey?
    </strong>
    Share your views and experiences of recent protests with the Guardian.
   </p>
   <p>
    We would like to hear from people in Turkey about the recent protests and whether they took part. Please share your story if you are 18 or over, anonymously if you wish, by filling out the form on
    this page
    .
   </p>
  </div>
 </div>
 <div>
  <h2>
  </h2>
  <div class="publish-info">
   <span>
    13:04
   </span>
  </div>
  <div class="post-body">
   <p>
    Isar Aerospace has scrubbed its attempt to launch its first test flight of its orbital launch vehicle from Norway, AP reports.
   </p>
   <p>
    Unfavourable winds this afternoon meant that the Spectrum rocket could not be launched from the island of Andøya in northern Norway, the German aerospace company said.
   </p>
   <p>
    The company said it could also conduct the test flight later in the week. Another date has not yet been set.
   </p>
  </div>
 </div>
 <div>
  <h2>
  </h2>
  <div class="publish-info">
   <span>
    12:24
   </span>
  </div>
  <div class="post-body">
   <p>
    Portugal’s foreign minister
    <strong>
     Paulo Rangel
    </strong>
    and Chinese counterpart
    <strong>
     Wang Yi
    </strong>
    will hold talks in Beijing on Tuesday, as EU member states fret over the prospect of a trade war with both Washington and Beijing.
   </p>
   <p>
    This week’s visit would be the first to China by a high-level Portuguese government official in over five years.
   </p>
   <p>
    The United States is the main destination for Portuguese exports outside the EU, while Portugal is the only country in western Europe still signed on to Beijing’s flagship overseas infrastructure plan, the belt and road initiative.
   </p>
  </div>
 </div>
 <div>
  <h2>
  </h2>
  <div class="publish-info">
   <span>
    11:57
   </span>
  </div>
  <div class="post-body">
   <p>
    The European commissioner for trade,
    <strong>
     Maros Sefcovic
    </strong>
    , is heading to Washington to meet the US commerce secretary
    <strong>
     Howard Lutnick
    </strong>
    on Tuesday, a Commission spokesperson said, Reuters reports.
   </p>
   <p>
    Sefcovic will also meet with US trade representative
    <strong>
     Jamieson Greer
    </strong>
    . The spokesperson declined to provide more details about the discussion.
   </p>
   <p>
    Donald Trump has threatened the EU – the US’ third biggest trading partner – with 25% tariffs. The EU said last week it may delay implementing its threatened response to US steel and aluminium tariffs.
   </p>
  </div>
 </div>
 <div>
  <h2>
  </h2>
  <div class="publish-info">
   <span>
    11:41
   </span>
  </div>
  <div class="post-body">
   <p>
    The imprisonment of Istanbul’s opposition mayor has come at a time when Turkey finds itself at the centre of geopolitical turmoil that observers say has freed president
    <strong>
     Recep Tayyip Erdoğan
    </strong>
    to target his most dangerous opponent,
    <strong>
     Ekrem İmamoğlu
    </strong>
    , AP reports.
   </p>
   <p>
    Experts suggest that a combination of global elements provided Erdoğan with an opening to attempt mitigating the primary challenge he faces in upcoming elections scheduled for 2028, though they might occur earlier. "A particularly unique alignment of circumstances has made this appear relatively straightforward for him to execute without attracting significant international disapproval or repercussions," explained one analyst.
    <strong>
     Monica Marks
    </strong>
    , professor of Middle Eastern Studies at New York University Abu Dhabi.
   </p>
   <p>
    <strong>
     Berk Esen
    </strong>
    A political scientist from Istanbul’s Sabanci University stated that the CHP's choice to reaffirm İmamoğlu as their presidential nominee for 2028 played a crucial role in his detention. "Erdogan hoped he might be able to diminish, if not entirely obstruct, İmamoğlu’s chances of running," they explained. "However, once the CHP scheduled the primary elections, it became evident that İmamoğlu would emerge as the party’s candidate, prompting Erdogan to act swiftly against him."
   </p>
   <p>
    "Erdogan is adhering to the autocrat's manual, focusing on undermining the entities capable of constraining his authority – such as courts, universities, and public figures," he stated.
    <strong>
     Maya Tudor
    </strong>
    , professor at Oxford University’s Blavatnik School of Government. “It is important to remember that day-to-day democracy is not about elections, which happen infrequently and under the glare of international media. It is also about the right of opposition politicians to organise and be heard. When politicians like İmamoğlu cannot disagree with Erdogan without being jailed through trumped up charges, a vital pillar of democratic society dies.”
   </p>
  </div>
 </div>
 <div>
  <h2>
  </h2>
  <div class="publish-info">
   <span>
    11:27
   </span>
  </div>
  <div class="post-body">
   <p>
    Germany has called the jailing of Istanbul mayor and Turkish opposition leader
    <strong>
     Ekrem İmamoğlu
    </strong>
    “totally unacceptable” and said it was following the developments with “great concern”.
   </p>
   <p>
    “The arrest and suspension of the mayor of Istanbul is totally unacceptable. This must be clarified very quickly and transparently,” Chancellor
    <strong>
     Olaf Scholz’s
    </strong>
    spokesman
    <strong>
     Steffen Hebestreit
    </strong>
    told a press conference.
   </p>
  </div>
 </div>
 <div>
  <h2>
  </h2>
  <div class="publish-info">
   <span>
    11:08
   </span>
  </div>
  <div class="post-body">
   <p>
    Reuters provides further quotes from Greenland’s outgoing prime minister
    <strong>
     Mute Egede
    </strong>
    , who has criticised a visit to the self-governing Danish territory by US second lady
    <strong>
     Usha Vance
    </strong>
    planned for later this week.
   </p>
   <p>
    Egede called the delegation’s visit, which runs from Thursday to Saturday, a “provocation” and said his caretaker government would not meet with it.
   </p>
   <p>
    “Until recently, we could trust the Americans, who were our allies and friends, and with whom we enjoyed working closely,” Egede told local newspaper Sermitsiaq. “But that time is over.”
   </p>
   <p>
    The Greenlandic government is currently in a caretaker phase following a March 11 parliamentary election won by the Democrats.
    <strong>
     Jens-Frederik Nielsen
    </strong>
    , leader of the Democrats, called for political unity and criticised the timing of the visit during coalition talks with municipal elections due next week. “We must not be forced into a power game that we ourselves have not chosen to be a part of,” Nielsen said.
   </p>
   <p>
    <strong>
     Brian Hughes
    </strong>
    , spokesman for the White House National Security Council, said the visit aims to “build on partnerships that respects Greenland’s self-determination and advances economic cooperation”.
   </p>
  </div>
 </div>
 <div>
  <h2>
  </h2>
  <div class="publish-info">
   <span>
    10:54
   </span>
  </div>
  <div class="post-body">
   <p>
    The Danish national police force said it has sent extra personnel and sniffer dogs to
    <strong>
     Greenland
    </strong>
    as the island steps up security measures ahead of a planned visit this week by second lady
    <strong>
     Usha Vance
    </strong>
    , AP reports.
   </p>
   <p>
    Spokesperson René Gyldensten said the extra officers were part of regular steps taken during visits by dignitaries to Greenland, a self-governing, mineral-rich territory of American ally Denmark.
   </p>
   <p>
    Vance’s visit comes at a time when president
    <strong>
     Donald Trump
    </strong>
    has suggested the United States should take control of Greenland.
    <strong>
     Denmark
    </strong>
    , a NATO ally, insisted the island wasn’t for sale.
   </p>
  </div>
 </div>
 <div>
  <h2>
   More than 1,100 detained in Turkish protests, says interior minister
  </h2>
  <div class="publish-info">
   <span>
    10:46
   </span>
  </div>
  <div class="post-body">
   <p>
    Turkey's interior minister stated that 1,133 individuals have been apprehended since the demonstrations started on March 19th, according to AFP.
   </p>
   <p>
    Large-scale protests have taken place in numerous Turkish cities beginning last Wednesday following the arrest of the Istanbul mayor.
    <strong>
     Ekrem İmamoğlu
    </strong>
    , the primary political opponent of the president
    <strong>
     Recep Tayyip Erdoğan
    </strong>
    .
   </p>
  </div>
 </div>
 <div>
  <h2>
  </h2>
  <div class="publish-info">
   <span>
    10:37
   </span>
  </div>
  <div class="post-body">
   <p>
    Families came together to commemorate the 10-year anniversary of the GermanwINGS aircraft disaster, which resulted in 150 fatalities back in March 2015.
   </p>
   <p>
    Investigations revealed that the co-pilot, Andreas Lubitz, intentionally crashed the aircraft. Memorial services were held at the German secondary school which had numerous students perish in the tragedy, as well as in Le Vernet, close to where the plane went down in the French Alps.
   </p>
  </div>
 </div>
 <div>
  <h2>
  </h2>
  <div class="publish-info">
   <span>
    10:09
   </span>
  </div>
  <div class="post-body">
   <p>
    At least ten reporters were held in custody in Istanbul and Izmir after extensive demonstrations erupted across Turkey due to the detention of Istanbul's controversial mayor.
    <strong>
     Ekrem İmamoğlu
    </strong>
    , the primary political opponent of the president
    <strong>
     Recep Tayyip Erdoğan
    </strong>
    .
   </p>
   <p>
    Following a tweet on X, the Turkish NGO Media and Law Studies Association stated that their legal team was providing assistance to the reporters involved. The organization also mentioned that over 20 journalists were reportedly subjected to physical attacks by law enforcement during the past four days of protests.
   </p>
  </div>
 </div>
 <div>
  <h2>
   Greenland PM denounces 'foreign interference' ahead of US visit
  </h2>
  <div class="publish-info">
   <span>
    09:50
   </span>
  </div>
  <div class="post-body">
   <p>
    Greenland’s prime minister
    <strong>
     Mute Egede
    </strong>
    accused Washington of interfering in its political affairs with the visit of an American delegation later this week to the Danish territory coveted by US president
    <strong>
     Donald Trump
    </strong>
    , AFP reports.
   </p>
   <p>
    <strong>
     Usha Vance
    </strong>
    , the wife of US Vice President
    <strong>
     JD Vance
    </strong>
    , will visit Greenland this week with her son and a US delegation, which Egede said would include US national security adviser
    <strong>
     Mike Waltz
    </strong>
    .
   </p>
   <p>
    “It should be said clearly that our integrity and democracy must be respected without foreign interference,” Egede said, adding that the delegation’s visit, from Thursday to Saturday, “cannot be seen as just a private visit”.
   </p>
   <p>
    Since returning to power in January, Trump has insisted he wants the United States to take over Greenland and even refused to rule out the use of force to achieve the aim.
   </p>
   <p>
    Egede said Washington had been told there would be “no talks” until a new Greenlandic government was in place after 11 March general elections that left him heading a caretaker government.
   </p>
   <p>
    <strong>
     Jens-Frederik Nielsen
    </strong>
    , leader of the centre-right Democrats that won the election and likely future Greenlandic prime minister, has previously criticised Trump’s moves on Greenland as “inappropriate”.
   </p>
  </div>
 </div>
 <div>
  <h2>
  </h2>
  <div class="publish-info">
   <span>
    09:43
   </span>
  </div>
  <div class="post-body">
   <p>
    A private European aerospace company is set to make the first test flight of its orbital launch vehicle from
    <strong>
     Norway
    </strong>
    later today, AP reports.
   </p>
   <p>
    The launch window for its Spectrum rocket from the island of
    <strong>
     Andøya
    </strong>
    in northern Norway is 12.30pm to 3.30pm local time, said German start-up, Isar Aerospace. The launch is subject to weather, safety and range infrastructure, and the company said it also could conduct the test flight later in the week.
   </p>
   <p>
    The 28-meter- (91-foot-) Spectrum is a two-stage launch vehicle designed for small and medium-sized satellites. The company largely ruled out the possibility of the rocket reaching orbit on its first complete flight, saying it would consider a 30-second flight a success.
   </p>
   <p>
    Isar Aerospace is separate from the European Space Agency, or ESA, which is funded by its 23 members states. ESA has been launching rockets and satellites into orbit for years, but mainly from French Guiana — an overseas department of France in South America — and from Cape Canaveral in Florida.
   </p>
  </div>
 </div>
 <div>
  <h2>
   Istanbul's mayor to be presidential candidate, says CHP
  </h2>
  <div class="publish-info">
   <span>
    09:37
   </span>
  </div>
  <div class="post-body">
   <p>
    Istanbul’s embattled mayor,
    <strong>
     Ekrem İmamoğlu
    </strong>
    was officially nominated as a presidential candidate by the opposition CHP party for the 2028 elections, a party spokesman told AFP on Monday.
   </p>
   <p>
    The Republican People’s Party (CHP) – the main opposition party and the second largest party in parliament – held a primary election on Sunday, at which the only candidate was İmamoğlu, the main political rival of president
    <strong>
     Recep Tayyip Erdoğan
    </strong>
    .
   </p>
   <p>
    İmamoğlu’s arrest and detention on corruption charges has sparked huge protests in Turkey.
   </p>
  </div>
 </div>
 <div>
  <h2>
   Turkish journalists held after covering protests
  </h2>
  <div class="publish-info">
   <span>
    09:36
   </span>
  </div>
  <div class="post-body">
   <p>
    Turkish authorities have detained nine journalists who covered overnight protests against the arrest of Istanbul mayor
    <strong>
     Ekrem İmamoğlu
    </strong>
    , the Journalists Union of Turkey said, Reuters reports.
   </p>
   <p>
    A Turkish court on Sunday jailed
    <strong>
     İmamoğlu
    </strong>
    , president
    <strong>
     Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s
    </strong>
    main political rival, pending trial on corruption charges in a move that triggered the country’s biggest protests in more than a decade.
   </p>
   <p>
    Despite bans on street gatherings in many cities, mostly peaceful anti-government demonstrations were held for a fifth night in a row last night. It was not immediately clear why the journalists were detained.
   </p>
   <p>
    A post on the union’s Facebook page
    listed the names of the journalists it said had been detained in dawn raids in Istanbul and Izmir.
   </p>
  </div>
 </div>
 <div>
  <h2>
  </h2>
  <div class="publish-info">
   <span>
    09:28
   </span>
  </div>
  <div class="post-body">
   <p>
    China said it hopes a visit later this week by the French foreign minister would see the countries deepen cooperation in a world facing “turbulence and transformation”, AFP reports.
   </p>
   <p>
    France and China have sought to strengthen ties in recent years, but Paris has also pressed Beijing on its ties with Moscow, which have strengthened since the invasion of Ukraine.
   </p>
   <p>
    French foreign minister
    <strong>
     Jean-Noel Barrot
    </strong>
    is set to visit the Chinese capital Beijing and economic powerhouse Shanghai on Thursday and Friday, his first visit since becoming the country’s top diplomat last year.
   </p>
   <p>
    “The current international situation is increasingly turbulent and complex, with a notable rise in instability and uncertainty,” China’s foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said, adding that Barrot will hold talks with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi.
   </p>
  </div>
 </div>
 <div>
  <h2>
   Opening summary: huge Turkish demonstrations over mayor's arrest
  </h2>
  <div class="publish-info">
   <span>
    08:59
   </span>
  </div>
  <div class="post-body">
   <p>
    Good morning and welcome to our blog covering developments in Europe amid escalating protests in Turkey triggered by the imprisonment of the mayor of Istanbul and top rival to president
    <strong>
     Recep Tayyip Erdoğan
    </strong>
    .
   </p>
   <p>
    On Sunday, a court formally arrested mayor
    <strong>
     Ekrem İmamoğlu
    </strong>
    , sending him to pre-trial detention on the day he received his party’s nomination to run for president. His initial arrest and detention on Wednesday sparked the largest wave of street demonstrations in Turkey in more than a decade and deepened concerns over democracy and the rule of law in the country.
   </p>
   <p>
    Last night, tens of thousands of demonstrators who massed near
    <strong>
     Istanbul’s
    </strong>
    city hall for a fifth straight evening, angry at the decision to officially arrest İmamoğlu, faced police who pepper-sprayed crowds and fired teargas. In
    <strong>
     İzmir
    </strong>
    , video showed police attempting to disperse protests using armoured water cannon trucks.
   </p>
   <p>
    The mayor's detention is broadly seen as a strategic maneuver to sideline a significant opponent of Erdoğan ahead of the upcoming presidential election in 2028. However, government representatives firmly deny these claims and assert that Turkey's judicial system functions autonomously.
   </p>
   <p>
    İmamoğlu was detained amid suspicions that he led a criminal group, accepted bribes, extorted money, unlawfully collected personal information, and engaged in bid rigging—allegations which he refutes. Although a plea to incarcerate him over terrorism-linked charges was dismissed, he continues to face potential legal action.
   </p>
   <p>
    In other developments:
   </p>
   <ul>
    <li>
     <p>
      <strong>
       Usha Vance, who is married to the US Vice-President JD Vance, plans to visit Greenland on Thursday during the presidency.
       Donald Trump
       holds onto the notion of a US incorporation of the strategically important, partly self-governing Danish territory.
      </strong>
      Vance will visit
      Greenland
      on Thursday with a US delegation to tour historical sites, learn about the territory’s heritage and attend the national dogsled race, the White House said in a statement.
     </p>
    </li>
    <li>
     <p>
      <strong>
       Hundreds of victims’ families are commemorating the 10th anniversary of the crash of Germanwings Flight 9525 in the French Alps, which killed all 150 people on board.
      </strong>
      Investigators said the plane was deliberately downed by the co-pilot, Andreas Lubitz. Memorials are planned Monday for 10.41am — the moment of the crash — at the German high school that lost so many students and also in Le Vernet, near the crash site in the mountains.
     </p>
    </li>
    <li>
     <p>
      <strong>
       French actor Gérard Depardieu will face charges in a Paris court of sexually assaulting two women during the filming of a movie in 2021.
      </strong>
      Depardieu is accused of groping a set dresser and an assistant director during production of the film Les Volets Verts (The Green Shutters). The actor denies the charges.
     </p>
    </li>
    <li>
     <p>
      <strong>
       Press freedom in Serbia is facing a “dangerous turning point” after mounting pressure on independent outlets from ministers and state-backed media, a group of senior editors has warned.
      </strong>
      The editors, who are all from publications within the independent United Media group, said their reporters faced “constant harassment, physical attacks and smear campaigns” after their reporting in the country, which has been gripped by protests against its autocratic president,
      <strong>
       Aleksandar Vučić
      </strong>
      .
     </p>
    </li>
    <li>
     <p>
      <strong>
       Tuberculosis (TB) cases amongst children across Europe increased by 10% in 2023, signalling persistent circulation of the disease and underscoring the urgency for prompt public health actions to curb its propagation, according to the World Health Organization.
      </strong>
      "The alarming increase in tuberculosis cases among children is a stark reminder that our advancements against this preventable and treatable illness remain precarious," stated Hans Henri Kluge, who is the Regional Director for Europe at the WHO.
     </p>
    </li>
   </ul>
  </div>
 </div>
</p>

Over 1,100 Detained in Turkey as Massive Protests Erupt Over Mayor's Arrest – Europe Live Update

Unknown europe, news, politics, politics and law, protests

LIVE – Updated at 16:11 Tens of thousands gathered in Istanbul with unrest likely to continue over treatment of presidential challenger to Erdoğan. Closing summary …

Kluczborczanin przez ponad 400 dni przebywał w krainie wiecznego lodu. "Są tam tylko trzy podstawowe potrzeby"

Unknown climate, culture, europe, history, poland

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1Bvf9f" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1Bvf9f.jpg"/>
<div class="md">
 <div class="md">
  <p>
   Polska Stacja Antarktyczna im. Henryka Arctowskiego znajduje się na półkuli południowej archipelagu Szetlandów Południowych na Wyspie Króla Jerzego u Wybrzeża Zatoki Admiralicji. Powstała w roku 1977. Początkowo miała służyć jako zaplecze dla rybołówstwa, dokładnie połowów kryla. Z czasem stała się stacją badawczą, którą zarządza Instytut Biochemii i Biofizyki Polskiej Akademii Nauk.
  </p>
  <p>
   Prowadzone są tu badania w dziedzinie: oceanografii, geologii, geomorfologii, glacjologii, meteorologii, sejsmologii, ekologii oraz przede wszystkim biologii, a także monitoringi zwierząt.
  </p>
  <p>
   Od wielu lat stacja zapewnia zaplecze techniczne i logistyczne dla polskich oraz międzynarodowych grup naukowców prowadzących badania w Antarktyce.
  </p>
  <p>
   Pierwsza polska samodzielna wyprawa morska do Antarktyki wyruszyła pod koniec 1975 roku. W skład 48. wyprawy, która zameldowała się na stacji pod koniec 2023 roku, był Tomasz Szewczyk z Kluczborka. Przebywał tam 476 dni. Niedawno wrócił do domu.
  </p>
 </div>
</div>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/slideshow/AA1Bvd5c" data-reference="slideshow"/>
<div class="md">
 <div class="md">
  <blockquote>
   <p>
    - Jeśli ktoś myśli, że praca tutaj jest pracą marzeń i przygodą życia przypominającą dziewicze wyprawy pierwszych odkrywców i podróżników, którzy zdobywali nowe lądy, ten będzie mocno zaskoczony – opowiada kluczborczanin.
   </p>
  </blockquote>
 </div>
</div>
<h2 class="atomsHeaderSubheading atomsHeaderSubheading--level2 component" id="pierwsze-kroki-na-lodzie">
 Pierwsze kroki na lodzie
</h2>
<div class="md">
 <div class="md">
  <p>
   Przyjazd na Polską Stację Antarktyczną im. Henryka Arctowskiego to nie jest zwykła podróż. Trzeba pokonać ponad 14 tysięcy kilometrów, przesiadać się na lotniskach, ścierać z wiatrem w chilijskim Punta Arenas, a na końcu – płynąć statkiem przez wzburzone wody Cieśniny Drake’a. Ten, kto dotrze do celu, już wie – to nie jest miejsce dla każdego.
  </p>
  <p>
   Latem na stacji bywa nawet 50 osób – naukowcy z różnych krajów, a także obsługa techniczna. Zimą zostaje garstka – zaledwie 9 osób, których łączy jedno: muszą na siebie liczyć, bo nikt inny im tu nie pomoże.
  </p>
 </div>
</div>
<div class="md">
 <div class="md">
  <blockquote>
   <p>
    - Latem wielu naukowców realizuje tu swoje programy badawcze. To międzynarodowa ekipa. Od wielu lat obowiązuje zasada, że na maszcie wisi flaga obywateli krajów, które goszczą na stacji – opowiada Tomasz Szewczyk. - Czasami tych flag wisi nawet pięć. Mieliśmy swego czasu Anglików, Włochów, Peruwiańczyków, Argentyńczyków, Amerykanów i Brazylijczyków. Jedni wyjeżdżają, inni przyjeżdżają. Ale są także ci, którzy zostają.
   </p>
  </blockquote>
  <p>
   O wyprawie do krainy wiecznego lodu Tomasz Szewczyk marzył „od zawsze”.
  </p>
  <blockquote>
   <p>
    - Wiedziałem, że różne kraje mają w Antarktyce swoje stacje badawcze. Biegając po podwórkach mojego rodzinnego miasta Kluczborka, praktycznie od podstawówki wzrastało we mnie marzenie o odwiedzeniu takiego miejsca – wspomina Tomasz Szewczyk. - Doszło do tego kilka przeczytanych książek, parę obejrzanych filmów i już wiedziałem, że zrobię wszystko, by znaleźć się w takim miejscu. Po wielu latach pojawiły się w moim życiu czas, przestrzeń i odwaga, żeby marzenie przemienić w dążenie.
   </p>
  </blockquote>
 </div>
</div>
<div class="md">
 <div class="md">
  <p>
   Choć corocznie – w grudniu lub na początku stycznia - Instytut Biochemii i Biofizyki PAN rekrutuje pracowników, wcale nie jest prosto przejść przez całe procedury rekrutacyjne. Trzeba wykazać się konkretnymi umiejętnościami, a także mieć żelazną psychikę i zdrowie.
  </p>
  <blockquote>
   <p>
    - Można aplikować na pobyt w okresie letnim, czyli od listopada do kwietnia, a także na cały rok – opowiada Tomasz Szewczyk. – Ja zdecydowałem się na tę drugą opcję i to z naddatkiem, bo dostałem propozycję, by po roku zostać kilka miesięcy dłużej.
   </p>
  </blockquote>
  <p>
   Wybrani aplikanci przechodzą rozmowę kwalifikacyjną, a następnie badania w Wojskowym Instytucie Medycyny Lotniczej. Po ich zaliczeniu są kierowani na tygodniowe szkolenie w Gdyni nastawione na psychologię polarną, naukę obsługi radia morskiego, obsługę sprzętu alpinistycznego, a także ITR (indywidualne techniki ratunkowe) w razie pożaru, ewakuacji oraz wypadnięcia z łodzi. A stamtąd już droga prosta do krainy wiecznego lodu.
  </p>
 </div>
</div>
<h2 class="atomsHeaderSubheading atomsHeaderSubheading--level2 component" id="zima-i-ciemnosc">
 Zima i ciemność
</h2>
<div class="md">
 <div class="md">
  <p>
   Noc polarna nie jest tu tak całkowita jak w głębi kontynentu, ale i tak potrafi dać się we znaki. Po godzinie 15:00 świat tonie w mroku. Przez kilka miesięcy światło słoneczne jest rzadkością, a witamina D staje się towarem nie mniej cennym niż paliwo do generatorów.
  </p>
 </div>
</div>
<div class="md">
 <div class="md">
  <p>
   Tomasz Szewczyk pracował na stacji jako mechanik.
  </p>
  <blockquote>
   <p>
    - Zajmowałem się utrzymaniem sprzętów mechanicznych oraz maszyn, które cały czas musiały być na chodzie i nie można było sobie pozwolić na to, żeby coś nie działało, gdyż w każdej chwili mogło być potrzebne – opowiada kluczborczanin.
   </p>
  </blockquote>
  <p>
   Dlatego każdy dzień zaczyna się od sprawdzenia stanu technicznego stacji. Awaria w takich warunkach to nie tylko niedogodność – to realne zagrożenie. Mróz potrafi zniszczyć rurę, wiatr zrywa zabezpieczenia, a jeśli przestanie działać generator, wszystkim grozi ogromne niebezpieczeństwo. Zimą gdy zatoka zamarza nikt nie jest w stanie dopłynąć na wyspę. Śmigłowce z innych stacji również stają się bezużyteczne.
  </p>
  <blockquote>
   <p>
    - To też nie jest tak, że robiliśmy tylko to, co lubimy, bo zdarzały się sytuacje awaryjne. Jak spadło dużo śniegu, trzeba było używać spychacza lub brać się za łopaty i odśnieżać, żeby drogi były przejezdne a podczas wiosennej odwilży nie zalało agregatów czy innych rzeczy. Nie ma że boli, że pada deszcz, że wieje wiatr.
   </p>
  </blockquote>
 </div>
</div>
<div class="md">
 <div class="md">
  <p>
   Gdy pogoda pozwala, wychodzą na zewnątrz. To inny świat – pingwiny, foki, słonie morskie. Czasem trzeba kluczyć między zwierzętami, które leniwie zajmują przejścia. Ale natura jest tu ważniejsza – gdy petrelce wykradają jaja z gniazd pingwinów, nikt nie interweniuje. To nie zoo, to Antarktyka.
  </p>
 </div>
</div>
<h2 class="atomsHeaderSubheading atomsHeaderSubheading--level2 component" id="codziennosc-na-krancu-swiata">
 Codzienność na krańcu świata
</h2>
<div class="md">
 <div class="md">
  <p>
   Dni na stacji płyną według prostego rytmu: praca, jedzenie, sen. Latem to etatowy kucharz serwuje ciepłe posiłki, ale zimą, kiedy go nie ma, każdy musi zaliczyć dyżur w kuchni. Niektórzy gotują lepiej, inni gorzej, ale wszyscy się starają – nikt nie chce zjeść przypalonego makaronu po dniu spędzonym na mrozie.
  </p>
 </div>
</div>
<div class="md">
 <div class="md">
  <p>
   Wolny czas? Są książki, planszówki, puzzle. Niektórzy jeżdżą na skuterach śnieżnych, nartach, inni spędzają wieczory na rozmowach. Jest też salka gimnastyczna, z której można skorzystać, jak również siłownia. Internet działa, ale z opóźnieniem – pogaduszki z rodziną w Polsce to czasem jedyne, co łączy ze światem.
  </p>
 </div>
</div>
<div class="md">
 <div class="md">
  <blockquote>
   <p>
    - Obserwacja przyrody jest też dobrym urozmaiceniem codzienności. Zdarzało nam się podglądać pingwiny, foki, kormorany, słonie morskie. Poznawać ich zwyczaje – wspomina Tomasz Szewczyk. - Mogliśmy się też spotykać ze znajomymi z zaprzyjaźnionych stacji, np. brazylijskiej. Mieliśmy do nich dość blisko, zaledwie 20 minut łodzią motorową, jakieś 10 km na drugą stronę zatoki, ale nie dało się tam dojść na nogach.
   </p>
  </blockquote>
  <p>
   Jednak to nie samotność najbardziej doskwiera, a monotonia.
  </p>
  <blockquote>
   <p>
    - Po kilku miesiącach każdy wie, kto jak chodzi, co je na śniadanie, jakie ma nawyki – mówi kluczborczanin. - Zdarzają się napięcia. Czasem drobnostka – ktoś nie odłożył czegoś na miejsce – może stać się iskrą zapalną poważnej kłótni.
   </p>
  </blockquote>
 </div>
</div>
<h2 class="atomsHeaderSubheading atomsHeaderSubheading--level2 component" id="niebezpieczenstwo-czai-sie-wszedzie">
 Niebezpieczeństwo czai się wszędzie
</h2>
<div class="md">
 <div class="md">
  <p>
   W Antarktyce nie można być nieostrożnym. Wiatr potrafi przewrócić człowieka. Nawet zgubiona rękawiczka może oznaczać poważne odmrożenia.
  </p>
 </div>
</div>
<div class="md">
 <div class="md">
  <blockquote>
   <p>
    - Kiedyś zimą zatoka zamarzła na dwa miesiące. Nie było żadnego kontaktu ze światem. Gdyby zdarzyło się coś poważnego, pomoc mogłaby nadejść zbyt późno – opowiada Tomasz Szewczyk.
   </p>
  </blockquote>
  <p>
   Nie wszyscy to wytrzymują. Bywały przypadki depresji, załamań nerwowych. Psychologia polarna to temat, którym interesuje się nawet NASA – bo warunki tutaj przypominają te, jakie mogą panować w Kosmosie.
  </p>
 </div>
</div>
<h2 class="atomsHeaderSubheading atomsHeaderSubheading--level2 component" id="powrot-do-swiata">
 Powrót do świata
</h2>
<div class="md">
 <div class="md">
  <p>
   Po miesiącach spędzonych w surowym klimacie Antarktydy powrót do Polski może być szokiem. Hałas miast, ruch uliczny, setki twarzy mijanych każdego dnia. Po tak długim czasie w izolacji mózg potrzebuje chwili, by się przystosować.
  </p>
 </div>
</div>
<div class="md">
 <div class="md">
  <p>
   Niektórzy wracają i szybko zapominają. Inni nie potrafią już żyć inaczej – wracają, raz, drugi, trzeci. Bo Antarktyka uzależnia.
  </p>
  <p>
   Na stacji życie jest surowe, ale proste. Są tylko trzy podstawowe potrzeby: ciepło, jedzenie, bezpieczeństwo. Nie trzeba się martwić polityką, rachunkami, miejskim pośpiechem.
  </p>
  <p>
   Zawiązują się przyjaźnie, wiele z nich na zawsze. Jeśli to wszystko przeżyjesz, nigdy juz
  </p>
 </div>
</div>

Kluczborczanin przez ponad 400 dni przebywał w krainie wiecznego lodu. "Są tam tylko trzy podstawowe potrzeby"

Unknown climate, culture, europe, history, poland

Polska Stacja Antarktyczna im. Henryka Arctowskiego znajduje się na półkuli południowej archipelagu Szetlandów Południowych na Wyspie Króla Jerzego u Wybrzeża Zatoki Admiralicji. Powstała w r…

The safest country in the world to be an expat revealed - European hotspot with 'high life expectancy' takes the crown

Unknown europe, living abroad, safety, security, world

<ul class="mol-bullets-with-font">
 <li class="">
  <strong>
   <strong>
    The study looked at personal security, public health, infrastructure and more
   </strong>
  </strong>
 </li>
 <li class="">
  <strong>
   READ MORE: Italy without the crowds - the country's best hidden gems revealed
  </strong>
 </li>
</ul>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 A new ranking has revealed the world’s safest country to move as an expat and it
 ’s a European country that tops the list.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 The expat experts at
 William Russell
 looked at key factors such as personal security, public health, infrastructure and environmental safety to determine the winner.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Read on if you're looking for relocation inspiration...
</p>
<h2 class="mol-para-with-font mol-style-subhead">
 Iceland
</h2>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Iceland takes the crown as the safest country in the world to be an expat, due to its 'low
 crime
 rate', 'high life expectancy' and 'high air quality'.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 A William Russell spokesperson explains: 'Iceland’s life expectancy is currently 82.6 years, higher than the EU average of 80.9 years. In terms of accessing healthcare, Icelanders generally report low levels of unmet medical needs.'
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Iceland's air quality is so good that it 'exceeds' the
 World Health Organization
 's guidelines for air quality.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Although Iceland has 'few dangerous wildlife', William Russell warns prospective expats that '
 earthquakes
 and volcanic eruptions can occur' although they are 'rarely dangerous'.
</p>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1Bp1Xh" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1Bp1Xh.jpg"/>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1Bp3UO" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1Bp3UO.jpg"/>
<h2 class="mol-para-with-font mol-style-subhead">
 Ireland
</h2>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Second on the list is the Emerald Isle, which makes the grade for its 'strong and stable economy' and 'tolerance of migrants'.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 The country also has a life expectancy of 82.2 years, which is higher than the EU average (80.9 years).
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 A William Russell spokesperson adds that Ireland has made progress on infrastructure and public health in recent years.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 However, they say that Ireland does suffer from a 'lack of affordable housing', which could impact prospective expats.
</p>
<h2 class="mol-para-with-font mol-style-subhead">
 Austria
</h2>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Austria places third on the list and is recognised for its 'low crime rates' and 'strong judicial system'.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Expats can take advantage of Austria's 'incredibly extensive rail system' which stretches for 6,123km/3,804 miles.
</p>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1BoLnL" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1BoLnL.jpg"/>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 A William Russell spokesperson explains: 'In Austria, the health system has almost universal coverage, and accessibility is considered to be generally good.'
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 On the flipside, they warn: '[Austria's] energy infrastructure can be problematic, as, in recent years, the country has been heavily reliant on Russian oil, which is even more of an issue, given the conflict between Ukraine and Russia.'
</p>
<h2 class="mol-para-with-font mol-style-subhead">
 New Zealand
</h2>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 New Zealand lands just outside the top three in fourth place due to its 'low crime rates'.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 A William Russell spokesperson says: 'New Zealand is about as safe as it gets. The country has a remarkably low crime rate compared to global averages.'
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 New Zealand's universal healthcare and 'friendly' people also helped to land it in the top four.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 However, would-be expats are warned: 'New Zealand’s sea levels are slowly rising, meaning that flooding in coastal areas is becoming much more frequent. As such, homeowners and expats in these areas could face costs related to these environmental challenges.'
</p>
<h2 class="mol-para-with-font mol-style-subhead">
 Singapore
</h2>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1BoLnQ" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1BoLnQ.jpg"/>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1BoXvF" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1BoXvF.jpg"/>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Singapore rounds off the top five for safety due to its 'low crime rates', 'efficient infrastructure' and 'good air quality'.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 However, while Singapore's 'low crime rate' helps boost its safety scores, a William Russell spokesperson warns that this is partly due to the country's 'strict laws'.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 They say: 'You should familiarise yourself with these laws before moving, as jaywalking and littering could land you a hefty fine.'
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 While the country's healthcare is high quality, it's not free, so the expat experts advise setting up a 'comprehensive insurance plan' before moving to Singapore.
</p>
<div class="art-ins mol-factbox travel">
 <h3 class="mol-factbox-title">
  THE SAFEST COUNTRIES TO BE AN EXPAT
 </h3>
 <div class="ins cleared mol-factbox-body">
  <div class="cleared row mol-cols mol-cols-2">
   <div class="mol-col span6 mol-col-1">
    <div class="cleared mol-col-content">
     <p class="mol-para-with-font">
      1. Iceland
     </p>
     <p class="mol-para-with-font">
      2. Ireland
     </p>
     <p class="mol-para-with-font">
      3. Austria
     </p>
     <p class="mol-para-with-font">
      4. New Zealand
     </p>
     <p class="mol-para-with-font">
      5. Singapore
     </p>
     <p class="mol-para-with-font">
      6. Switzerland
     </p>
     <p class="mol-para-with-font">
      7. Portugal
     </p>
     <p class="mol-para-with-font">
      8. Denmark
     </p>
     <p class="mol-para-with-font">
      9. Slovenia
     </p>
     <p class="mol-para-with-font">
      10. Malaysia
     </p>
    </div>
   </div>
   <div class="mol-col span6 mol-col-2">
    <div class="cleared mol-col-content">
     <p class="mol-para-with-font">
      11. Canada
     </p>
     <p class="mol-para-with-font">
      12. Czechia
     </p>
     <p class="mol-para-with-font">
      13. Finland
     </p>
     <p class="mol-para-with-font">
      14. Hungary
     </p>
     <p class="mol-para-with-font">
      15. Croatia
     </p>
     <p class="mol-para-with-font">
      16. Belgium
     </p>
     <p class="mol-para-with-font">
      17. Japan
     </p>
     <p class="mol-para-with-font">
      18. Netherlands
     </p>
     <p class="mol-para-with-font">
      19. Australia
     </p>
     <p class="mol-para-with-font">
      20. Germany
     </p>
     <p class="mol-para-with-font mol-style-italic">
      Source: William Russell
     </p>
    </div>
   </div>
  </div>
 </div>
</div>
Read more

The safest country in the world to be an expat revealed - European hotspot with 'high life expectancy' takes the crown

Unknown europe, living abroad, safety, security, world

The study looked at personal security, public health, infrastructure and more READ MORE: Italy without the crowds - the country's best hidden gems revealed A new r…

Swiss Ski Resort Rises Above: Crans-Montana Shines Bright, Drawing Europe’s Elite Beyond Slopes

Unknown culture, europe, ski resorts, tourist attractions, travel

<ul class="mol-bullets-with-font">
 <li class="class">
  <strong>
   <strong>
    The historic ski resort, dating back a hundred years, is experiencing a revival due to fresh investments.
   </strong>
  </strong>
 </li>
 <li class="class">
  <strong>
   James Reynolds discovers that unwinding in chilly Crans-Montana isn't a simple task.
  </strong>
 </li>
 <li class="class">
  <strong>
   EXPLORE FURTHER: Dazzling delights: Top UK getaways for springtime beauty
  </strong>
 </li>
</ul>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Just release your grip," my trainer instructs me. However, it's quite challenging to unwind.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 There's just so much to remember.  Lean forward and I will go faster. Lean backwards I will fall.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 I admit, I'm way out of my comfort zone.  As a Londoner, my instinct is to be tense, to stand on the right and wait for everything and everyone, to pass by.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 This is perhaps why it is taking me time to get used to relaxed vibe of Crans-Montana, high in the Swiss Alps.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 It also explains, why it is the destination of choice for Europe's high-flyers who want to move down a gear. Once you 'let go', the rest of the world may well not exist.
</p>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1Bi33q" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1Bi33q.jpg"/>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1Bic4W" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1Bic4W.jpg"/>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1Bic54" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1Bic54.jpg"/>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Crans-Montana - which remains open until April 21 - is enjoying a 'renaissance' with changes to its demography and new investment. It is 'made up' of two villages - Crans from the west and
 Montana
 from the east. They are linked together by a mountainside path.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 The resort has welcomed Brits for more than a century. It was first established when Hôtel du Parc, opened its doors as a clinic in 1893, run by Swiss Doctor Theodore Stephani who treated sufferers of tuberculosis.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 There followed a golf course, constructed in 1906 and the first official ski race organised by British pioneer Sir Arnold Lunn five years later.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Thanks to its diverse array of leisure activities on offer, the resort steadily grew over the years attracting a notable clientele including Sir Roger Moore, whose home still stands, though currently obscured by construction work.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Perhaps in some sense, it is symbolic of the desire to breathe new life into the resort.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 As it happens, building work is forbidden during peak ski seasons but around the municipality it is impossible to miss the signs of an organised desire for change and the hosting of world-class sporting and cultural events and gourmet restaurants.
</p>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1Bi7JE" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1Bi7JE.jpg"/>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 There's even an art gallery, The Opale Foundation, which is solely dedicated to Indigenous Australian art, while billboards around the town boast Crans-Montana’s preparations for the World Championship for Alpine Skiing in 2027.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 The mountainous retreat also enjoys 300 days of sunshine a year.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 The resort is only too aware of the fact that its neighbouring resorts sitting at lower altitudes are battling against rising temperatures and lack of snow.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Sitting higher-up, Crans-Montana doesn't have this problem yet, but what it does do, is provide a template for how its neighbours might have to adapt in the future.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Off the snow, there are a myriad of  activities on offer and during my visit I try as many as possible.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 One evening wee enjoy a magical stroll along the seasonal walking path, The Lantern Trail, which runs between Lake Moubra and Etang Long Lake.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 The  route takes us over the Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course which has been transformed into a spectacular, immersive display of illuminated artworks and colourfully-lit trees.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 On another night, we watch a thrilling ice hockey game.  The Ycoor ice skating rink is one of the largest in Switzerland.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Afterwards, at the indoor curling rink, we sit transfixed as we cheer on teams, armed with brooms, testing their 'sweeping' skills trying to push a 20kg granite rock into a 'house' or goal.
</p>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1Bic5q" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1Bic5q.jpg"/>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1Bic5D" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1Bic5D.jpg"/>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1Bic5S" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1Bic5S.jpg"/>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Given its location and its affluent clientele, Crans-Montana has no shortage of top class restaurants. We dine at CASY - which resembles an upmarket, minimalist ski chalet with wooden walls and floors.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Their menu is billed as Modern European and includes dishes such as octopus and sweet potato, 24 CHF (£21/$26), white asparagus with cured ham and hollandaise, 21 CHF (£21/$26) and duck breast with white bean puree, goose liver and Sichuan sauce. 43 CHF (£37/$47).
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Th
 <span>
  ere is something for everyone here. At the intersection of 'beer Europe' and 'wine Europe', Crans-Montana chose both, championing a rich Après-Ski tradition that caters to British sensibilities while also growing wine locally on the slopes from Sierre.
 </span>
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Frequent skiers say the municipality has changed in recent years, in part due to the adoption of a controversial law that enforces a £33,800 minimum annual wage for chalet and catering staff. With Brexit too, it has become harder to recruit foreign staff - but residents acknowledge the opportunity for locals to fill in the spaces.
</p>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1Bi9sX" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1Bi9sX.jpg"/>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Change is certainly underway with the much-anticipated, soon-to-be-completed acquisition of Crans-Montana by Vail Resort. This is their second foray in Europe after their recent investment in Andermatt-Sedrun in central Switzerland.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 My ski Guide Anne* tells me,
 <span>
  'They have a good reputation. I am very curious about the next winter season and I hope they will make the changes needed to the eldest installations... some are ancestral.'
 </span>
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 <span>
  She also invites Vail Resorts to add routes for beginners in the Arnouva area, which is home to a restaurant with stunning views, where we stop for fondue.
 </span>
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Events like the
 City Ski Challenge
 now in its 24th year, help the resort by bringing a yearly cohort of foreign businesspeople from across Europe to compete and unwind.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 The arrival of five star retreats such as spectacular five-star
 Six Senses Crans-Montana
 , which opened in 2023, also suggest faith in the resort's wider project.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Christian Gurtner, the general manager, tells me: 'The recent acquisition by Vail Resorts has set the stage for significant growth, with anticipated additions including new luxury hotels and resorts, the introduction of thermal baths, and enhancements to ski lifts.
</p>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1Bi5fO" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1Bi5fO.jpg"/>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1Bi7Kk" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1Bi7Kk.jpg"/>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 'These developments align with the evolving demands of tourism, catering to a discerning audience seeking elevated experiences.'
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 There is a balance to be made, he says, between 'preserving the unique charm of Crans-Montana and integrating modern amenities to enhance the overall guest experience'.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 In this way, Crans-Montana has kept to its roots as a haven for outsiders seeking respite from daily metropolitan life.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 We chose to stay at a more traditional hotel, Hotel la Prairie, a charming, chalet-style property with wood-paneling galore and ideally located, just metres from the town centre.
</p>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1Bi34B" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1Bi34B.jpg"/>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1BigH6" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1BigH6.jpg"/>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 We opted to remain at the traditionally styled Hotel La Prairie, a quaint, chalet-like establishment featuring wooden panel walls and conveniently situated mere steps away from the downtown area.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 I discover an empty mini bottle of Johnnie Walker in a wooden nightstand, maybe reflecting the essence of the space itself.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 However, the employees are welcoming, the cuisine is delicious, and the bar stays open until late. No matter if you seek secluded opulence or wish to relax in a cozy, inviting setting with stunning vistas — Crans-Montana offers everything you could want.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 While European skiing could encounter several hurdles in the next few years, Crans-Montana is demonstrating precisely how to tackle these issues.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 <span>
  (*not her real name)
 </span>
</p>
<div class="art-ins mol-factbox travel">
 <h3 class="mol-factbox-title">
  TRAVEL FACTS
 </h3>
 <div class="ins cleared mol-factbox-body">
  <p class="mol-para-with-font">
   Hotel la Prairie
   provides double rooms starting at CHF240 (£211/$263) for accommodation.
  </p>
  <p class="mol-para-with-font">
   prairie.ch/en
  </p>
  <p class="mol-para-with-font">
   Six Senses Crans-Montana
   features a Terrace Room starting at CHF730 (£653/$814) for guests to enjoy.
   sixsenses.com
   (price correct)
  </p>
  <p class="mol-para-with-font">
   The Swiss Travel Pass provides three days of unrestricted travel along with complimentary entry to museums and exhibits, starting at £186 ($231).
   mystsnet.com
  </p>
  <p class="mol-para-with-font">
   Swiss
   operates regular flights from London Heathrow to Zurich.
   swiss.com
  </p>
  <p class="mol-para-with-font">
   For more information visit
   crans-montana.ch
  </p>
 </div>
</div>
Read more

Swiss Ski Resort Rises Above: Crans-Montana Shines Bright, Drawing Europe’s Elite Beyond Slopes

Unknown culture, europe, ski resorts, tourist attractions, travel

The historic ski resort, dating back a hundred years, is experiencing a revival due to fresh investments. James Reynolds discovers that unwinding in chilly Crans-Montana…

Travelers Reveal the World's Most Disappointing Tourist Attractions: Top 5 Are European Hits and Misses

Unknown europe, tourist attractions, tourists, travel, travel destinations

<p>
 A recent study revealed that several highly acclaimed global tourist spots often disappoint visitors, leaving them feeling let down.
</p>
<p>
 Luggage storage company
 <strong>
  Radical Storage
 </strong>
 analyzed 95,352 visitor reviews from 200 of the most frequented landmarks worldwide to identify the planet’s least satisfying tourist spots.
</p>
<p>
 The first five positions were claimed by European attractions, several of which are frequently regarded as must-visit locations.
</p>
<h2>
 The globe's least impressive tourist spot is located in the UK.
</h2>
<p>
 Drawing inspiration from the triumph of Disneyland in the United States, the country retreat of Alton Towers underwent a transformation.
 <strong>
  theme park
 </strong>
 In the 1980s. Spanning 910 acres with 10 distinct zones, it holds the title of being the largest in the UK.
</p>
<p>
 The research revealed, though, that nearly half of the reviews for the theme park located in Staffordshire included terms reflecting a disappointing visit. To provide some perspective, the typical percentage of unfavorable reviews in the study stands at 10.9 percent.
</p>
<p>
 Alton Towers received the largest proportion of feedback criticizing the pricing structure. Visitors frequently mentioned being misled by tickets and faced additional costs for pricey extras like costly beverages and meals or entry fees for various park zones.
 <strong>
  park
 </strong>
 .
</p>
<p>
 Feedback indicates that more frequently, it's not the rides themselves that let down patrons, but rather the quality of customer service.
</p>
<h2>
 The thermal baths in Budapest tend to be very crowded.
</h2>
<p>
 The Széchenyi Baths and Pool in Budapest, Hungary
 <strong>
  Budapest
 </strong>
 It is the biggest medicinal spa in Europe and has served as a wellness travel destination since 1913.
</p>
<div class="widget widget--type-image widget--size-fullwidth widget--animation-fade-in widget--align-center">
 <div class="widget__wrapper">
  <div class="widget__ratio widget__ratio--auto">
   <div class="widget__contents">
    <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1BfiYa" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1BfiYa.jpg"/>
   </div>
  </div>
 </div>
</div>
<p>
 Nevertheless, more than one-third of individuals who posted an online review about the baths expressed dissatisfaction. In terms of crowds and accessibility, the baths were rated as having the third-worst performance (with 16.8 percent of all reviews mentioning this issue versus a 4.4 percent average across others).
</p>
<h2>
 Spain's renowned Siam Park suffers from subpar customer service.
</h2>
<p>
 The largest water park in Europe is Siam Park, located in Tenerife, Spain.
 <strong>
  water park
 </strong>
 Opened by Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn of Thailand in 2007, this "world's best water park" experience isn’t consistently positive. Critics often highlight unfriendly service from employees and problems with access.
</p>
<p>
 Several reviewers reported experiencing shame related to their body weight and noted that the park lacked accessibility features for people with disabilities. In total, approximately one-third of the reviews expressed dissatisfaction with their visit.
</p>
<h2>
 The Time Out Market Lisbon is suffering due to its overwhelming popularity.
</h2>
<p>
 Planned and constructed by Time Out (a British media and hospitality firm) in 2014, Time Out Market Lisboa marked the company’s initial foray into this type of project.
 <strong>
  food halls
 </strong>
 .
</p>
<p>
 In 2018, the project was honored with the esteemed Hamburg Foodservice Award, which stands as one of the highest accolades within the food-service sector. However, based on recent feedback, circumstances seem to have declined somewhat. More than twenty-five percent of the reviewers expressed disappointment or dissatisfaction.
</p>
<p>
 It appears that Time Out Market Lisboa is suffering from its own popularity. The venue has seen the highest proportion of reviews referencing
 <strong>
  crowds
 </strong>
 Or accessibility problems (18.4 percent compared to the 4.4 percent average).
</p>
<h2>
 The crowds at the Trevi Fountain are overwhelming.
</h2>
<p>
 The Trevi Fountain is an iconic Baroque landmark in Rome, appearing in well-known movies like Fellini’s La Dolce Vita and Wyler’s Roman Holiday.
</p>
<p>
 Each year, visitors reportedly toss about €1 million into the fountain, with tradition holding that throwing a coin ensures they will come back to Rome someday.
</p>
<div class="c-widget-related">
 <div class="c-widget-related__title">
  <b class="c-widget-related__title__text">
   Related
  </b>
 </div>
 <ul class="c-widget-related__list">
  <li class="c-widget-related__item">
   Visitors toss more than €1 million into Rome's Trevi Fountain annually. This is what occurs with the money.
  </li>
  <li class="c-widget-related__item">
   An 'unsightly' coin-collecting structure has been constructed beside Rome’s Trevi Fountain as part of the city’s extensive renovation project.
  </li>
 </ul>
</div>
<p>
 But if you cast a wish into the fountain, you may want to time your visit wisely. After Time Out Market Lisboa, the reviews had the second greatest proportion of people mentioning
 <strong>
  crowds
 </strong>
 In total, one out of every four individuals reported having an adverse comment regarding their encounter.
</p>
<p>
 The fountain remained shut for refurbishments during portions of 2024, potentially leading to dissatisfaction among certain visitors.
</p>

Travelers Reveal the World's Most Disappointing Tourist Attractions: Top 5 Are European Hits and Misses

Unknown europe, tourist attractions, tourists, travel, travel destinations

A recent study revealed that several highly acclaimed global tourist spots often disappoint visitors, leaving them feeling let down. Luggage storage company Radical Storage analyzed 95,352 v…

Brits Reveal Top Holiday Destination for 2025: Europe's Hidden Gem with Unbeatable Prices and Stunning Beaches

Unknown cost of living, europe, food and drink, travel, travel destinations

<ul class="mol-bullets-with-font">
 <li class="">
  <strong>
   <strong>
    The study looks at the cost of flights, eating out, coffee and local beer
   </strong>
  </strong>
 </li>
 <li class="">
  <strong>
   READ MORE: I tested out whether an all-inclusive holiday is really worth the price
  </strong>
 </li>
</ul>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 A new study has revealed the world's best-value holiday destinations for Britons.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 According to the new report from Mintel and
 eurochange
 , an eastern European country is the cheapest option for holidaying British tourists in 2025.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 The experts looked at the cost of flights, a three-course meal and a beer to find the best-value holiday hotspots.
</p>
<h2 class="mol-para-with-font mol-style-subhead">
 1. Bulgaria
</h2>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Bulgaria is officially the best option for Britons looking to stretch their pounds the furthest this year.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 A three-course meal for two comes in at £27.08 while a domestic beer is just £1.42 on average.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 With return flights to Sofia from the UK starting from £28, the destination offers great-value for budget-conscious Brits.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Laura Evans Fisk, head of digital and engagement at eurochange, says: 'Bulgaria is slowly becoming a holiday hotspot for UK travellers. Research shows an 8.8 per cent year-on-year increase in British tourists visiting Bulgaria in 2024.
</p>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1B9iqm" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1B9iqm.jpg"/>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1B9nyY" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1B9nyY.jpg"/>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 'With incredibly reasonable prices and utterly stunning views, it's easy to see why. Here you'll find terracotta-tiled rooftops and beaches very reminiscent of Croatia, with a much smaller price tag.'
</p>
<h2 class="mol-para-with-font mol-style-subhead">
 2. Turkey
</h2>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Turkey just misses out on the top spot, but still offers great value for bargain-hunting Brits.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 A three-course meal for two costs just £26.71, while a domestic beer comes in at £3.03.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 And return flights to the seaside resort of Dalaman from the UK start from just £52.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Laura reveals: 'A firm favourite with British tourists, Turkey
 has so much to offer as a holiday destination
 .
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 'No matter if you're looking for a laid-back beach vacation, an adventurous hike, or a urban getaway in Istanbul,
 Turkey has it all
 Your money will also stretch quite far here.
</p>
<h2 class="mol-para-with-font mol-style-subhead">
 3. Portugal
</h2>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1B9dqG" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1B9dqG.jpg"/>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 In Western Europe, Portugal offers the most affordable option, where a three-course dinner for two costs £42.64.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 A local beer costs just £2.30 while a coffee comes in at £1.74. Brits can nab return flights for £28 from the UK to Faro.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Laura says: 'Portugal is one European destination where your cash can go further.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 'With very reasonable flight and accommodation prices, the Algarve is a brilliant holiday destination for the whole family.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 'There are many family-friendly resorts, particularly in Albufeira. If a city break is more your thing, Lisbon was recently
 ranked as one of the least expensive cities in Western Europe.'
</p>
<h2 class="mol-para-with-font mol-style-subhead">
 4. Hungary
</h2>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Landing just outside the top three, Hungary is another of Europe's best-value holiday destinations for Britons.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 A three-course meal for two comes in at £35.69 while a domestic beer is just £1.78.  Return flights from the UK to Budapest start from £28.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Laura explains: 'The Hungarian Forint is one of the best value currencies in Europe against the pound.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 'For £10, you can buy at least four beers and a coffee will cost you less than £2.'
</p>
<h2 class="mol-para-with-font mol-style-subhead">
 5. Thailand
</h2>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1B99pD" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1B99pD.jpg"/>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Britons looking to travel further afield will find the best deals outside Europe in Thailand.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Although return flights from the UK to Bangkok start from £476, a three-course meal for two costs just £18.43.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 A domestic beer costs just £1.82 while Brits can pick up a coffee for just £1.39.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Laura adds: 'It's no secret that Thailand is incredibly good value for money for British travellers. However, sometimes it is overlooked with it being a long-haul destination.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 'Even when factoring in flights and accommodation, a week in Thailand can cost around £900 including spending money, whereas a week in Spain can cost upwards of £800 per person during peak season.'
</p>
<h2 class="mol-para-with-font mol-style-subhead">
 6. South Africa
</h2>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 South Africa
 comes in as sixth cheapest for Brits with a three-course meal for two costing just £25.46.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Return flights from the UK to Cape Town are pricier, starting at £452, but Laura claims that cheap prices in South Africa mean Britons will 'make up for it' once there.
</p>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1B9dqM" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1B9dqM.jpg"/>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Laura explains: 'Whether it's a beach holiday, a once-in-a-lifetime safari trip, or a trip to its iconic wine regions,
 South Africa has so much to offer
 . A three-course meal for two, costs just £12.50 each, the price of a starter in most UK restaurants.'
</p>
<h2 class="mol-para-with-font mol-style-subhead">
 7. Costa Rica
</h2>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Its name might translate as 'Rich Coast' but Costa Rica is one of the world's best-value destinations for Britons, according to the research.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 A three-course meal for two costs £38.97 while a domestic beer costs just £1.95.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Laura comments: 'Costa Rica is increasing in popularity among UK travellers. In fact, the UK is Costa Rica's third largest European source market and visitor numbers from the UK increased by 5.5 per cent in the first half of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.'
</p>
<h2 class="mol-para-with-font mol-style-subhead">
 8. Montenegro
</h2>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 An 'up-and-coming' European destination, Montenegro is one of the continent's best-value hotspots for Britons.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 A three-course meal for two comes in at £38.61, while a domestic beer costs just £2.32.
</p>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1B9nzb" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1B9nzb.jpg"/>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Laura
 adds: 'A less crowded alternative to Croatia, it offers similar quaint towns, gorgeous beaches and a stunning coastline, but it is around 20-30 per cent cheaper.'
</p>
<h2 class="mol-para-with-font mol-style-subhead">
 9. Poland
</h2>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Poland offers an excellent option for budget-conscious British travelers, where a three-course dinner for two people costs only £33.76.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 A domestic beer comes in at around £2.45 while return flights from the UK to Gdansk cost just £26.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Laura mentions, "A short trip to Poland could
 as low as £200 covering flights, lodging, and pocket money
 .'
</p>
<h2 class="mol-para-with-font mol-style-subhead">
 10. Sri Lanka
</h2>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 A further distant travel spot, Sri Lanka completes the list of top 10 destinations. For a three-course dinner shared between two people, you only pay £15.33, whereas a local beer can be had for as low as £1.43.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 Outbound return tickets from the UK to Colombo cost more at £636 per individual; however, Laura mentions that British travelers will receive 'good value' when they arrive in Sri Lanka.
</p>
<p class="mol-para-with-font">
 She mentions, "Sri Lanka boasts an exceptionally varied array of breathtaking scenery, picturesque shores, verdant tea estates, historical remnants, fantastic wildlife observation options, and luscious culinary delights — all contained within a fairly small expanse."
</p>
<div class="art-ins mol-factbox travel">
 <h3 class="mol-factbox-title">
  BEST-VALUE HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS
 </h3>
 <div class="ins cleared mol-factbox-body">
  <div class="cleared row mol-cols mol-cols-2">
   <div class="mol-col span6 mol-col-1">
    <div class="cleared mol-col-content">
     <p class="mol-para-with-font">
      1. Bulgaria
     </p>
     <p class="mol-para-with-font">
      2. Turkey
     </p>
     <p class="mol-para-with-font">
      3. Portugal
     </p>
     <p class="mol-para-with-font">
      4. Hungary
     </p>
     <p class="mol-para-with-font">
      5. Thailand
     </p>
    </div>
   </div>
   <div class="mol-col span6 mol-col-2">
    <div class="cleared mol-col-content">
     <p class="mol-para-with-font">
      6. South Africa
     </p>
     <p class="mol-para-with-font">
      7. Costa Rica
     </p>
     <p class="mol-para-with-font">
      8. Montenegro
     </p>
     <p class="mol-para-with-font">
      9. Poland
     </p>
     <p class="mol-para-with-font">
      10. Sri Lanka
     </p>
     <p class="mol-para-with-font">
      <span>
       Source: Mintel/eurochange
      </span>
     </p>
    </div>
   </div>
  </div>
 </div>
</div>
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