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People in the world’s ‘blue zones’ live longer – their diet could hold the key to why

<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/justin-roberts-1176632">Justin Roberts</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/anglia-ruskin-university-1887">Anglia Ruskin University</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/joseph-lillis-1505087">Joseph Lillis</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/anglia-ruskin-university-1887">Anglia Ruskin University</a>, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/mark-cortnage-438941">Mark Cortnage</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/anglia-ruskin-university-1887">Anglia Ruskin University</a> Ageing is an inevitable part of life, which may explain our <a href="https://time.com/4672969/why-do-people-want-to-live-so-long/">strong fascination</a> with the <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2726954">quest for longevity</a>. The allure of <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26566891/">eternal youth</a> drives a <a href="https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/longevity-and-anti-senescence-therapy-market-A14010">multi-billion pound industry</a> ranging from anti-ageing products, supplements and <a href="https://www.everydayhealth.com/diet-nutrition/longevity-diet">diets</a> for those hoping to extend their lifespan. f you look back to the turn of the 20th century, average life expectancy in the UK was around 46 years. Today, it’s closer to <a href="https://population.un.org/wpp/">82 years</a>. We are in fact <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27706136/">living longer than ever before</a>, possibly due to medical advancements and improved <a href="https://www.health.org.uk/publications/reports/mortality-and-life-expectancy-trends-in-the-uk">living and working conditions</a>. But living longer has also come at a price. We’re now seeing higher rates of <a href="https://www.who.int/data/gho/data/themes/mortality-and-global-health-estimates/ghe-leading-causes-of-death">chronic and degenerative diseases</a> – with heart disease consistently topping the list. So while we’re fascinated by what may help us live longer, maybe we should be more interested in being healthier for longer. Improving our “<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4632858/">healthy life expectancy</a>” remains a global challenge. Interestingly, certain locations around the world have been discovered where there are a high proportion of centenarians who display remarkable physical and mental health. The <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15489066/">AKEA study of Sardinia, Italy</a>, as example, identified a “blue zone” (named because it was marked with blue pen), where there was a higher number of locals living in the central-eastern mountainous areas who had reached their 100th birthday compared with the wider Sardinian community. This longevity hotspot has since been expanded, and now includes several other areas around the world which also have greater numbers of longer-living, healthy people. Alongside Sardinia, these blue zones are now <a href="https://www.netflix.com/gb/title/81214929">popularly recognised</a> as: Ikaria, Greece; Okinawa, Japan; Nicoya, Costa Rica; and Loma Linda, California. Other than their long lifespans, people living in these zones also appear to share certain other commonalities, which centre around being <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3874460">part of a community</a>, having a <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4224996/">life purpose</a>, eating <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33514872/">nutritious, healthy foods</a>, keeping <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41398-021-01735-7">stress levels</a> low and undertaking purposeful daily <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30202288/">exercise or physical tasks</a>. Their longevity could also relate to their <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9010380/">environment</a>, being mostly rural (or less polluted), or because of <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22253498/">specific longevity genes</a>. However, studies indicate genetics may only account for <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8786073">around 20-25% of longevity</a> – meaning a person’s lifespan is a complex interaction between lifestyle and genetic factors, which contribute to a long and healthy life. <h2>Is the secret in our diet?</h2> When it comes to diet, each blue zone has its own approach – so one specific food or nutrient does not explain the remarkable longevity observed. But interestingly, a diet rich in <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3662288">plant foods</a> (such as locally-grown vegetables, fruits and legumes) does appear to be reasonably consistent across these zones. For instance, the Seventh-day Adventists of Loma Linda are <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10641813/">predominately vegetarian</a>. For centenarians in Okinawa, <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20234038/">high intakes of flavonoids</a> (a chemical compound typically found in plants) from purple sweet potatoes, soy and vegetables, have been linked with <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11710359/">better cardiovascular health</a> – including lower cholesterol levels and lower incidences of stroke and heart disease. In Nicoya, consumption of locally produced rice and beans has been associated with <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34444746/">longer telomere length</a>. Telomeres are the structural part at the end of our chromosomes which protect our genetic material. Our telomeres get shorter each time a cell divides – so get progressively shorter as we age. Certain <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21102320/">lifestyle factors</a> (such as smoking and poor diet) can also shorten telomere length. It’s thought that telomere length acts as a <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31728493/">biomarker of ageing</a> – so having longer telomeres could, in part, be linked with longevity. But a plant-based diet isn’t the only secret. In Sardinia, for example, meat and fish is consumed in moderation in addition to locally grown vegetables and <a href="https://journalofethnicfoods.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s42779-022-00152-5">traditional foods</a> such as acorn breads, pane carasau (a sourdough flatbread), honey and soft cheeses. Also observed in several blue zone areas is the inclusion of <a href="https://www.jacc.org/doi/10.1016/j.jacc.2021.10.041">olive oil</a>, <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33669360/">wine</a> (in moderation – around 1-2 glasses a day), as well as <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3830687/">tea</a>. All of these contain powerful antioxidants which may help <a href="https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10049696/">protect our cells</a> from damage <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6273542/">as we age</a>. Perhaps then, it’s a combination of the protective effects of various nutrients in the diets of these centenarians, which explains their exceptional longevity. Another striking observation from these longevity hot spots is that meals are typically <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7232892">freshly prepared at home</a>. Traditional blue zone diets also don’t appear to contain <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6538973/">ultra-processed foods</a>, fast foods or sugary drinks which may <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32330232/">accelerate ageing</a>. So maybe it’s just as important to consider what these longer-living populations are not doing, as much as what they are doing. There also appears to be a pattern of eating until 80% full (in other words partial <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9036399/">caloric reduction</a>. This could be important in also supporting how our cells deal with damage as we age, which could mean a longer life. Many of the factors making up these blue zone diets – primarily plant-based and natural whole foods – are associated with <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35706591/">lower risk of chronic diseases</a> such as <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28728684/">heart disease</a> and <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37589638/">cancer</a>. Not only could such diets contribute to a <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37836577/">longer, healthier life</a>, but could support a more <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33397404/">diverse gut microbiome</a>, which is also associated with healthy ageing. Perhaps then we can learn something from these remarkable centenarians. While diet is only one part of the bigger picture when it comes to longevity, it’s an area we can do something about. In fact, it might just be at the heart of improving not only the quality of our health, but the quality of how we age.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/221463/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/justin-roberts-1176632">Justin Roberts</a>, Professor of Nutritional Physiology, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/anglia-ruskin-university-1887">Anglia Ruskin University</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/joseph-lillis-1505087">Joseph Lillis</a>, PhD Candidate in Nutritional Physiology, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/anglia-ruskin-university-1887">Anglia Ruskin University</a>, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/mark-cortnage-438941">Mark Cortnage</a>, Senior Lecturer in Public Health and Nutrition, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/anglia-ruskin-university-1887">Anglia Ruskin University</a> Image credits: Getty Images This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/people-in-the-worlds-blue-zones-live-longer-their-diet-could-hold-the-key-to-why-221463">original article</a>.

Food & Wine

Might we see child-free zones on flights?

Ah, the joys of air travel. The excitement of jetting off to exotic locales, the thrill of new adventures, and of course, the endless possibilities for unexpected entertainment. And what's more exhilarating than finding yourself seated next to a rowdy toddler or an inconsolable infant? It's the stuff of dreams, truly. Picture this: you're settling into your seat, envisioning a serene journey ahead, perhaps catching up on your favourite Netflix series or finally finishing that novel you've been meaning to read. But wait, what's this? A couple with a baby approaching your row. You can already hear the distant wails of despair echoing through the cabin. Your heart sinks as you realise that your peaceful flight just took a nosedive before it even began. Yes, it's the age-old dilemma of child-free travellers everywhere. Whether it's the cacophony of a crying baby or the rhythmic drumming of tiny feet on the back of your seat, flying with children nearby can be an experience like no other. And let's not forget the classic game of "Will they or won't they?" as you anxiously await to see if the parents will be able to tame their pint-sized companions or if chaos will reign supreme at 30,000 feet. But fear not, dear passengers, for there may be a solution on the horizon. Could child-free zones be the answer to our airborne woes? According to a <a href="https://travel.nine.com.au/latest/planes-should-there-be-child-free-zones/d463b299-5258-418f-831c-f5fb218f1d77" target="_blank" rel="noopener">recent poll conducted by Nine News</a>, a whopping 73 per cent of respondents were in favour of such a proposition. Finally, a sanctuary where one can escape the unpredictable antics of tiny humans and bask in the tranquility of uninterrupted inflight bliss. Of course, implementing such a scheme may prove to be a tad challenging. After all, how does we go about segregating the child-rearing masses from the child-free elite without inciting a riot at the boarding gate? It's a logistical nightmare that even the most seasoned airline execs would hesitate to tackle. So, for now, it seems we child-free flyers will have to make do with our trusty noise-cancelling headphones, our steadfast eye masks, and a healthy dose of empathy for our fellow passengers. After all, parenting is no easy feat, especially at 35,000 feet. Image: Getty

Travel Trouble

Qantas to launch new ‘well-being’ zone on ultra long-haul flights

Qantas is taking passenger comfort to a whole new level by offering dedicated wellbeing zones to travellers flying on the ultra-long-haul international flights. Qantas revealed its plans to deliver non-stop flights from Australia's east coast to Europe and the United States at a press conference on Monday May 2nd. "New types of aircraft make new things possible," CEO Alan Joyce said, adding the new Airbus A350s feature "comfort in each travel class" and are set to "improve how people travel around Australia and overseas." The new Airbus A350s are capable of flying direct from Sydney to international cities like New York and London by the end of 2025, which means the Aussie carrier would officially operate the world's longest flight. Qantas revealed that the aircraft will carry only 238 passengers across four classes (First, Business, Premium Economy, Economy), compared to over 300 seats on competitor airlines. More than 40% of the cabin will be "dedicated to premium seating". "First class will have a designated bed, a designated seat away from the bed and a wardrobe. It will be the best, I believe, first-class product out there," Mr Joyce said. The cabin has been specially configured for improved comfort on long flights, with Qantas also saying economy class will have the biggest seat of any economy class the airline has ever launched. The real stand-out feature will be a dedicated 'wellbeing zone' in the centre, with enough room to be a workout area for people to exercise and re-hydrate. There will also be digital displays to provide movement recommendations and a self-serve snacking station. "It's an area we believe is very important for people travelling this ultra-long haul," Joyce added. In 2019, the airline ran a series of test flights on the Sydney to New York City and Sydney to London routes as an experiment where the crew and passengers on board had their health monitored during the journey. This was to see how such a long flight could affect future fliers. Tracking devices monitored sleep patterns, activity cycles, food and drink consumption and other data. Right now, Singapore Airlines holds the title of having the world's longest flight thanks to its Singapore to New York route. Qantas has not yet released costs for the ultra long haul flights. Images: Qantas

Travel Tips

Arrest warrant issued for man missing in bushfire zone

Image: Facebook/WA Police An arrest warrant has been issued for Jordan Marshall, a real estate agent missing in the Margaret River fire zone since last Wednesday. Mr Marshall, aged 40, was due to appear for a scheduled court matter in Fremantle Magistrates Court on Monday morning but failed to appear. His burnt-out car was found near where a bushfire broke out in Margaret River last week. Family, friends, and police are concerned for the father-of-three’s welfare, as he was on bail at the time of his disappearance. He was last spotted near Mammoth Cave on December 8th, the day the bushfire broke out. After burning out of control for several days, the fire has now been contained after burning out 5,500 hectares of land. WA Police confirmed that the arson unit, Strike Force Vulcan, is on the scene. On Saturday, the unit released a statement confirming their suspicion that the fire had been deliberately lit. “Based on initial assessment of the fire scene it is believed the fire was deliberately lit and may have been ignited near Mammoth Cave,” the statement said. Police have not stated whether they believe Mr Marshall was involved in the bushfire, but his failure to appear in court on Monday has prompted the issuing of an arrest warrant, as he failed to comply with bail conditions. Mr Marshall was due to appear on one count each of criminal damage or destruction of property and unlawfully assault and bodily harm with circumstances of aggravation. According to police, the first charge relates to an incident that happened on December 4 in White Gum Valley. The second charge is from an incident that happened on the same day in South Fremantle, and he is also charged with a further three counts of criminal damage or destruction of property. He is due to face court for these charges December the 31st. Mr Marshall’s brother has shared with The West Australian that Jordan is suffering from mental health issues. “We are pleading with members of the community to keep an eye out for Jordan, and to check their properties for any signs of him. “We would appreciate any help that will bring our Jordo home.” Mr Marshall is described as having a solid build with short brown hair and brown eyes. He is about 170cm tall. Police have asked anyone with information of the whereabouts of Mr Marshall to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a report online at crimestopperswa.com.au.

News

Holidaying in a disaster zone isn't as crazy as it seems

Holidaying in a disaster zone might seem crazy, but “volunteer tourism” can actually help communities recover from natural disasters. And if can offer a unique and rewarding experience for volunteers, if done carefully. When disaster hits a tourist destination – whether fire, flood, cyclone or earthquake – tourists usually stay away, leaving communities to deal with a loss of income on top of the costs of repair and recovery. On the other hand, people who feel a natural curiosity, as well as a natural desire to help, are keen for experiences where they can interact with locals and make a difference. This “volunteer tourism” should not be confused with “disaster tourism” in which tourists immediately travel to a scene not to help but to look. Nepal shows what can be done We examined volunteer tourism in Nepal in the wake of the April 2015 earthquake that killed nearly 9,000 people and injured nearly 22,000. We found that when it was done in an ethical manner that considered local conditions and the community, it could aid recovery and resilience. It is important that the process be controlled locally and that the invitation from locals be genuine. It is also important that volunteer tourists be prepared to engage in work that mainstream tourists would not. Our study, <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160738319301598">Engaging volunteer tourism in post-disaster recovery in Nepal</a>, has just been published in the Annals of Tourism Research. In the four months that followed the Nepal earthquake, international tourism more than halved. Initially most relief organisations asked international volunteers not to come unless they had specific expertise, such as medical skills, building skills, or experience responding to emergencies. Then the Pacific Asia Travel Association and Nepalese tourism industry leaders worked together to produce the report of the <a href="http://pata.org.np/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/A-Report-on-PATA-Nepal-Tourism-Rapid-Recovery-Taskforce.pdf">Nepal Rapid Recovery Task Force</a>, running workshops with more than 200 tourism industry leaders and professionals. Volunteer tourism led the way back The strategy they came up with prioritised potential tourism regrowth markets, including volunteer tourism. Nepal relaxed conditions to allow international tourists to volunteer on a wide range of projects including rebuilding homes and schools, interning in hospitals, supporting non-government organisations and reestablishing sustainable agriculture. It helped that Nepal was set up for it. It had already hosted organisations offering short-term travellers the opportunity to teach English and to work on health projects. In 2015 and 2016 it hosted three global celebrities whose widely-publicised visits raised the profile and popular appeal of Nepal, especially to volunteer tourists. In May 2015, Hollywood actress Susan Sarandon visited Nepal and actively promoted volunteer tourism to the North American market. In mid-2015 Hong Kong based actor Jackie Chan visited and encouraged Chinese tourists and volunteers to come to Nepal. In March 2016, Prince Harry (the younger son of Prince Charles) spent two weeks in Nepal engaged in volunteer programs. Nepal’s tourism recovery since then has been remarkable. In 2015, the year of the earthquake, just under 600,000 international tourists visited. By 2018 the number had reached an all time record of almost 1.2 million. In 2019 it grew further. Volunteer tourism drove the recovery. The Nepal Association of Tour and Travel Agents says almost one third of the tours booked to Nepal in the two years after the earthquake comprised groups who combined tourism experiences with volunteering or philanthropy. It needs to meet local needs In times of national crisis, the priority of a government has to be restoring the welfare of its people. However, the process by which that happens is multifaceted. In destinations that rely on tourism as a primary source of foreign investment, it can make sense to build tourism into the recovery process. A focus on tourism need not detract from other critical processes such as providing health care and emergency services, clearing debris and construction. But that’s easier said than done. Natural disasters by their very nature sow confusion, severely damage infrastructure and impose great strains on emergency management and administration. Volunteer tourism won’t work everywhere, but where conditions are right, international visitors can speed rather than slow recovery.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/128841/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/david-beirman-4852">David Beirman</a>, Senior Lecturer, Tourism, <a href="http://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-technology-sydney-936">University of Technology Sydney</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/simone-faulkner-911263">Simone Faulkner</a>, , <a href="http://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-technology-sydney-936">University of Technology Sydney</a>, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/stephen-wearing-7081">Stephen Wearing</a>, Associate Professor, Management, <a href="http://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-technology-sydney-936">University of Technology Sydney</a> This article is republished from <a href="http://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/holidaying-in-a-disaster-zone-isnt-as-crazy-as-it-might-seem-128841">original article</a>.

Travel Trouble

What I learned as a hairdresser in a war zone

I don’t think my life is much different from anyone else’s, except that I decided to be a hairdresser in a war zone. When I first arrived in Kabul, I felt like I had been transported to biblical times – only most of the people had guns and I only had my scissors. It wasn't until I spent time in Afghanistan that I learned how powerful my trade of hairdressing was. The minute I pulled out my scissors and cape, I felt like the most popular kid in class – everyone wanted a haircut or colour. People like to think that because women are covered, they are plain – no makeup and hair undone. Let me tell you – that is the opposite of the truth. I have always gone that extra mile with my own hair and makeup, but these women made me look like a Plain Jane. One lady told me how she drove 12 hours over the Khyber Pass to Pakistan – dodging the Taliban the entire way – just to get foils and a good haircut. The Taliban had forced the salons to close and a few had gone underground. I was stunned at the risk these women took just so they could have their hair done for a wedding party – a custom that had always been a strong part of the culture but was now against the law. It was when I walked into that first salon that I knew there was no turning back. I was going to do something for my sister hairdressers. I realised that hairdressing was a fantastic portable skill, one that was perfect for Afghanistan, and one that could give women choices and a way to feed their family. This was a skill that could be done in or out of the home, and it would be a sanctuary for women only. No man could control – or even step foot into – the salon. It would be such an empowering place for the women to be free. Opening the Kabul Beauty School was one of the most rewarding but difficult things I have done in my life. In the beginning, when I was working with so many young Afghan women at the school, I felt so overwhelmed by the traumas that each of these girls had endured for so many years. But on the other hand, I saw the strength and power that each of these young women seemed to have been born with. I was horrified when I heard about arranged marriages at the age of twelve, how so many had to flee their homes for years due to the Taliban, and about those who had to stop going to school in fourth grade because of war. I was amazed at the core strength of these women. I never had the intention of being a writer, but I always wrote. I kept daily notes and journals so that my head could purge some of the information it was gathering each day. Often, I felt that I was on overload, I was out of my comfort zone, I was out of my element, and each day, I was listening to a new and difficult story that one of the girls needed to share. The more I wrote, the more I began to understand that these women didn't need my pity, that we really are all the same. Like them, I am a woman, I am a mother, and I am a daughter. When I realised that, it all came together and the fun began. When I stopped looking at them as poor, tragic Afghan women, and instead as women who had gone through lots of stuff and who now wanted to move forward – just like most of us – everything changed. I decided I wanted the world to see these beautiful women as I did. I wanted them to be more than a news clip or a sound bite. I wanted the world to see them through my eyes. Afghanistan is a complicated place, and so when I left, I felt shattered. I had really thought that I would spend the rest of my life in Kabul; I never saw myself moving back to the United States. I missed the girls and my old life so badly, and spent the next few years grieving the loss of my Afghan family. Because I didn't want to let go of Afghanistan, the only way I could keep it close was to keep writing about it. I told my agent that I really wanted to write another book, but this time I wanted to write fiction. I wanted to write happy endings. I figured if you put it in writing, just maybe it will happen in real life. Also, I had to prove to my kids that I wasn't a one-hit wonder. I have learned so much about myself while writing my five books. I’ve learned that I am a storyteller first and a writer second. I love the process of developing a book. I love how the characters come alive and become your best friends, and how some turn into people you never want to see again. Writing is my best therapy, it is my best friend, it is a true companion. Deborah Rodriguez’s new book, The Zanzibar Wife is available now (Penguin Random House, RRP $32.99). Written by Deborah Rodriguez. Republished with permission of <a href="https://www.wyza.com.au/articles/lifestyle/wyza-life/what-i-learned-as-a-hairdresser-in-a-war-zone.aspx">Wyza.com.au.</a>

Art

10 popular cities with danger zones to avoid

Don’t venture too far away from the bright lights of the tourist strip. 1. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Millions of tourists pour into Rio each year, drawn by the vibrant culture, party atmosphere, gorgeous beaches and major events like Carnival. Visitors are going to want to stick to what is known as the ‘southern zone’, made up of suburbs like Ipanema, Copacabana and Leblon. Other areas can be dangerous, known for drugs, gang violence and petty crime. 2. Naples, Italy When a city is known as the birthplace of the Mafia, it’s no surprise it has a seedy side. In fact, the seedy side may even be larger than the good side! But that doesn’t mean it’s not worth a visit – the historic centre is lined with cobblestone streets and excellent museums, the people are welcoming and the pizza is out of this world. 3. Mexico City, Mexico All of the Mexican capital used to be considered pretty dangerous, but that’s changing. The New York Times even named it the number one place in the world to visit last year. But there are still some shady spots – steer clear of the black market neighbourhood of Tepito and Colonia del Valle, known for kidnapping. 4. Los Angeles, USA LA manages to sit at both ends of the safety spectrum at once. In some parts, like Rodeo Drive or Beverly Hills, you can wear all your diamonds at once and just blend in with the crowd. But head into South Central or Compton, known for their gang violence and high crime rate, and it’s a different story. 5. Barcelona, Spain Barcelona is one of those cities that everybody loves – the food, the wine, the music, the beaches, the history. And even though it’s largely safe and welcoming, there are still a few places where you need to be careful. Ciutat Vella, the main nightlife area off Las Ramblas, is known for its after-dark crime and tourists often make easy targets. 6. Bogota, Colombia Another South American gem that is undergoing a tourist resurgence, Bogota is bursting with colonial architecture, innovative restaurants and cool bars. But be aware that some areas still hark back to the bad old days of drugs and violence. Barrio Santa Fe, right in downtown Bogota, is a hotbed of crack cocaine and gun violence, and kidnappings are not uncommon. 7. Moscow, Russia A fascinating centre of history, art, culture and architecture, Moscow has been at the crossroads of east and west for centuries. And while it’s still a challenging destination for tourists, you can now visit Moscow in safety and comfort. Just steer clear of Solntseve, a neighbourhood in the northwest of the city that is a hub for organised crime and run by the terrifying Solntsevskaya Brotherhood. 8. Singapore This tiny Asian nation state is ranked as the sixth safest country in the world and is famous for its strict rules, covering everything from chewing gum to drinking water on trains. So it might surprise you that it has its own seedy suburb, Geylang. While not strictly dangerous, it's the red light district known for prostitutes and shady bars, and should be avoided after dark. 9. Chicago, USA America’s most famous gangster, Al Capone, ran Chicago in the 1920s and left a legacy of organised crime. The city has turned things around in recent years, becoming a centre for arts, museums and music. Even so, you will still want to stay away from some areas in the South Side, especially the Fuller Park area, which are dangerous for locals and tourists alike. 10. Paris, France The City of Light is the world’s most popular tourist destination, though sadly issues around poverty, illegal immigration and terrorism are having a negative impact. Don’t stray outside of the central 20 arrondissements as many of the outer suburbs have become home to temporary refugee camps and violence is not uncommon. Have you visited any of these cities? Have you arranged your travel insurance yet? Save money with Over60 Travel Insurance. <a href="https://elevate.agatravelinsurance.com.au/oversixty?utm_source=over60&utm_medium=content&utm_content=link1&utm_campaign=travel-insurance" target="_blank">To arrange a quote, click here.</a> Or for more information, call 1800 622 966.

Travel Insurance

Why you should push your comfort zone (and take risks in life)

We all have a comfort zone and we're told, at least occasionally, we need to break out of it if we are to achieve our potential. Whether that's mountain climbing, moving to a new country or walking over hot fiery coals – or, for that matter, stand-up comedy, performance art or skydiving – getting out of the safety of everyday life and using elevated stress levels to attain success is a formula that those who do it for a living swear by. A comfort zone is succinctly defined by American writer Judith M. Bardwick in her book Danger in the Comfort Zone as "a behavioural state where a person operates in an anxiety-neutral position", and academic Andrew Jarden says breaking out of that state can be a good thing. Jarden, head of research at the Wellbeing and Resilience Centre at the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute; and former senior lecturer in psychology at the Auckland University of Technology, says: "There is a link between failure and wellbeing known as 'positive failure' - essentially, [considering] the good things that can come from failure. Does it give you strength or build character? It can give you purpose, it's about personal growth and development. "[Positive failure is] good for you because it means you're pushing boundaries. If you're not failing [or at risk of failing], you're not really out of your comfort zone. "Also, most people don't like boredom. It's good to push ourselves." Performer Eli Joseph (stage name Victor Victorious) has been on the circuit for six years, displaying a range of artistic talents including burlesque, stilt walking and aerial acrobatics. Currently studying circus full time, he's called on to try new things like ventriloquism, regularly pushing himself out of his comfort zone and throughout his career he's used failure as a tool. "Without failure, there's no satisfaction in our successes. The harder I've had to work at learning movements or choreography, the more I enjoy being able to complete them, particularly when I'm upside down or dangling at heights. I take no pleasure or satisfaction in failure, it can hurt, it can be embarrassing, but every time I fail in a task, I'm one step closer to succeeding." As well as the ability to conceptualise failure, motivation is also a key aspect. For comedian, environmental scientist and early childhood educator, Lee Ray, it's the feeling of triumph that keeps her going. "Stand-up comedy is the most terrifying thing I do [...] I always spend the time leading into being on stage wondering how the hell I got myself into this situation and trying to think of legit ways that I can possibly get out of it "When you get off stage after a good show, the payoff for all of the nerves and terror is the euphoric release of all of those feel-good chemicals in your brain. 'Oh yeah, I remember why, that feels great'. I'm sure it is addictive." Riki Kees Jongenburger, a skydiving cameraman based in Nelson's Abel Tasman area, bikes, surfs, snowboards and rock climbs. He previously spent seven years as a nomad, visiting 19 countries and 32 cities and is building a residence off the grid with his partner of 10 years. "I think living off grid is great. It's a challenge, but I have learnt a lot of new skills [...] We have awesome friends and family who have helped us a lot. "I guess my competitive drive pushes me to better myself [...] I come from a family of three boys so I am pretty competitive." While our environment, such as growing up with ambitious siblings, does shape us, Jarden suggests that it's only a fraction of our being and that we have a greater power over who we are than we realise. "Everyone has a different recipe, but we can speculate 50 per cent of 'wellbeing' is down to genetics and the lottery of having parents who are happy and/or more likely to do things that push themselves. Forty per cent is up to the choices you make. Ten per cent is external factors, such as wealth or the country you were born in. So, most of it is actually in your control." Exploring your personal limits leads to new skills and a sense of accomplishment - but is everyone capable of doing so? Jongenburger, Joseph and Ray all agree, to varying degrees, that they are extroverts and Jarden confirms that this trait, as well as being open to new things, is prevalent in those who push themselves. Ray herself says while she loves what her profession has taught her, "it's not for everyone though, you do need to be quite robust". However, given that roughly half of our social-genetic make-up is made up of free will, such as choosing loyal friends and supportive partners, Jarden additionally says people can, and should, develop themselves to take more risks. "[It gets harder as we get older] because as we age we gain greater insight into our strengths and our values (what is important to us), and we basically get better at knowing and getting what we want and is important to us. "[People should] become their own experiment. Take a scientific approach to experimentation on the self. Develop the trait of curiosity in particular. "However, you need to factor in the risks and these need to be managed – and these need to be non-life threatening to yourself and/or others." Written by Janan Jay. First appeared on <a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/" target="_blank">Stuff.co.nz</a>.

Mind

Dilemma: Child-free zone on flights

Like a great many people I flew abroad on holiday this year at an uncivilised hour, cursing my miserliness. In darkest February it made prudent sense to book the cheapest 5am flights to and from Greece. Scroll forward to August, and rousing bleary-eyed children out of bed at 1am, half-dressing and hustling them into a cab seemed the height of penny-pinching insanity. "Stop sobbing with exhaustion," I told the weepy seven-year-old or maybe it was my husband. "We can always sleep on the plane, despite our cheapskate airline's best efforts to make their stripped-down seats substantially less inviting than Old Sparky." So we boarded, strapped ourselves in and I nodded off to the sound of loud crying. Did I say loud? I meant ear-splitting. No, make that atom-splitting. Only another parent can understand how this is possible, but once I'd established said crying wasn't emanating from anyone in my family, ergo not my problem, I switched off. Just like that. Don't hate me. I drifted blissfully away feeling nothing more than a vague sense of there-but-for-the-grace-of-God sympathy for Some Other Poor Mother, hushing and shushing, pacing and apologising. We've all been there, deflecting the slings and arrows of outraged passengers who regard a crying baby as an infringement of their human rights. Just this week, mother-of-four Nicola Colenso posted details of an on-board altercation with a fellow traveller who shouted "Shut that child up" when her very obviously disabled eight-year-old daughter, Yasmin, was wailing in distress. Yet the passenger, a woman in her twenties continued to harangue the parents and scream at the girl, who was taken to hospital after disembarkation. <img width="496" height="280" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/28145/child-free-airlines_496x280.jpg" alt="Child -free -airlines" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/> Image credit: Facebook / Nicola Colenso The post - and photograph - of the offending, offensive traveller have since gone viral. While few would actively engage in a fracas, there is an alarming groundswell of opinion that all children are a nuisance on flights. Eamonn Holmes, presenter of This Morning and a father of four, then sparked controversy by complaining that he "hates" being seated next to a child on a plane and he is all in favour of child-free zones and entire flights so he can sleep or grumble in peace. Personally I'd be happy to pay a premium not to sit next to a grumpy telly presenter. And I have no doubt there probably is moolah to be made from charging curmugeons top dollar to fly free of children, but - sorry to sound like the sort of prol who has to turn right on a plane - isn't that why business class was invented? Anyway, a survey in 2014 by the booking website LateDeals.co.uk revealed that 70 per cent of people would like to see child-free areas introduced in planes. This would take the form of compartments on long-haul flights and presumably for short hops staff would just pop the babies in the hold. It might make for a quiet night but it would be polarising. In recent years a schism the size of the San Andreas Fault has developed between those with and those without children. There's deep frustration over "family-friendly" working practices that discriminate against the child-free and growing calls for "me-ternity" leave, so those who don't have a baby can pursue what they see as equally legitimate life goals. Even making polite allowances for children has become a rarity; this year the Mortimore family from Exeter was ordered off a plane after passengers refused to move seats so the children could sit with an adult, as is the requirement. The carrier EasyJet gave them a full holiday refund plus extras, but I can't help wondering how a planeful of people could have been so bloody-minded and heartless. I once boarded a flight where seats weren't allocated, carrying my younger daughter who must have been about three years old. As I stood around waiting for help, the flight attendant eventually had the brass neck to tell me that there was no seats left together. Did I shout? Did I kick up an unholy fuss? Did I go begging round the aisles for someone to bunch up? No I did not. I beamed in fake delight, held my by now shrieking daughter aloft and said "Lovely. Now could you please explain to her why she can't sit next to her mummy?" As if by magic, two seats were found. One passenger was visibly disgruntled at having to move, but four years on, I'm sure she's got over it, the mean old boot. There's something about air travel that brings out pettiness in people and prompts them to lose their social inhibitions, as attested by the Facebook passenger shaming page, which is full of unspeakable activities and well worth a look if you've ever feeling misanthropic and have a phobia about stranger's feet. As for air rage, it's on the rise, but interestingly it isn't brought about by mewling infants but economic segregation. According to a piece I recently read in The Economist (while travelling steerage), Harvard Business School has discovered that economy travellers are four times more likely to throw a tantrum if there's a first class cabin on board. A total of 84 per cent of incidents happen in the cheap seats - another reason why child-free compartments are not a good idea. If Joe Public gets tetchy at the sight of privileged people drinking Champagne at 35,000 feet, imagine how cross we'll feel seeing smug-faced Eamonn Holmes snoozing away in his soundproofed sleeping pod? What’s your take? Do you think it’s time to introduce a child-free zone on airplanes? Share your thoughts in the comments section, we’d love to hear from you. Written by Judith Woods. First appeared on <a href="http://Stuff.co.nz" target="_blank">Stuff.co.nz</a>. Related links: <a href="/travel/travel-tips/2016/09/10-of-the-most-annoying-things-on-a-flight/">10 of the most annoying things on a flight</a> <a href="/news/news/2016/09/16-injured-after-severe-turbulence-on-flight/">16 injured after severe turbulence on flight</a> <a href="/travel/travel-tips/2016/08/6-dirtiest-places-on-a-plane-revealed/">6 dirtiest places on a plane revealed</a>

Travel Tips

Why everyone should break out of their comfort zone in retirement

Think back on what you had planned before you retired. It’s safe to assume one of your plans was to try something entirely new, perhaps a hobby or new pastime. Now that you are retired, ask yourself, “have I done what I set out to do?” If the answer is no, we’re going to show you why you should. The idea of a “comfort zone” has existed since 1908, when psychologists Robert M. Yerkes and John D. Dodson found that humans are actually more productive with a bit of stress. Without stress and anxiety, we have no driving force. This state of low-stress is known as “optimal anxiety” – the sweet spot where we’re just stressed enough to be productive, but not so anxious that we begin to shut down. It’s not only productivity that you’ll benefit from if you break out of your comfort zone. You’ll also experience these very welcome perks: <ul> <li>You’ll be more adaptive to change – as we’ve <a href="/health/mind/2016/04/ability-to-adapt-to-change-fades-as-we-age/" target="_blank">explained previously</a>, we become less tolerant of change when we age because the part of the brain responsible for accepting new things deteriorates over time. However, people who choose to take new opportunities are more prepared when other, less welcome changes are forced upon them.</li> <li>You’ll get addicted to trying new things – once you’ve done it once, the adrenaline you get from breaking out of your comfort zone will prompt you to do it again and again. That state of “optimal anxiety” will become more normal to you and you’ll keep trying to out-do yourself with new, exciting things.</li> <li>You’ll become more creative – going after new opportunities and having new experiences inspires you, makes you ponder the future and consider the past. You never know, you might just start to feel the creative juices flowing and be inspired to put pen to paper or paintbrush to canvas!</li> </ul> Doesn’t that sound good? Of course, it’s a lot easier said than done. Here are a few simple ways you can begin your journey towards living a more impulsive life. <ul> <li>Do something every day that scares you – whether it’s buying a new book or seeing a movie without reading a review, taking a new walking route, tasting a new cuisine… there are always small things you can do to push yourself just slightly outside the realm of comfort.</li> <li>Act on impulse – your intuition is rarely wrong, so instead of spending hours, days, even weeks making a decision, decide on the spot and stick to it. Once you realise how much more productive you can be this way, you’ll begin to trust yourself more.</li> <li>Go slowly – breaking out of your comfort zone isn’t about working up the courage to jump out of a plane or ride a rollercoaster. Making small changes in your attitude and the way you approach new situations is all you need to get yourself on the right path. It’s not about how big the step is, it’s about taking the step in the first place.</li> </ul> Tell us in the comments below, what’s the biggest way you’ve broken out of your comfort zone? Related links: <a href="/lifestyle/retirement-life/2016/07/reawaken-your-creativity-in-retirement/">Reawaken your creativity in retirement</a> <a href="/lifestyle/retirement-life/2016/06/over-60s-fitness-gurus/">Over-60s fitness gurus prove it’s never too late to get fit</a> <a href="/lifestyle/retirement-life/2016/06/retirement-doesnt-have-to-sap-your-self-esteem/">Retirement doesn’t have to sap your self-esteem</a>

Retirement Life

Mumbai set to become no-selfie zone

The “selfie” has become a part of modern life, but sometimes the pursuit of the perfect photo to post on social media can have tragic consequences. India is home to the highest number of people who have passed away while taking photos of themselves, with 49 recorded selfie-linked deaths since 2014, according the San Francisco-based data service provider Priceonomics. As a result, Mumbai has officially declared 16 “no-selfie zones” across the cities, with authorities warning people against taking unnecessary risks. Among the “no-selfie zones” are off-limit areas that are perceived as risky, particularly along the coastline in areas without railings or barriers. Clearly-marked signs show the selfie-free zones and anyone venturing into these off-limits areas risks beings slapped with a 1200 rupee (around $25) fine, even if they’re not taking any photographs. "This is a new problem for us," Mumbai police spokesman Dhananjay Kulkarni told CNN. "We have identified spots in Mumbai. We want to restrain people from going there so that mishaps don't happen." India is not the first country to make moves to deter people from taking dangerous selfies and tourist photographs. Selfie sticks have been banned from some train stations in Japan, amid fears people would lost balance and fall onto the tracks and Russia announced an entire campaign last year warning tourist of the most dangerous spots for selfies. So it goes without saying if you are going to take a selfie, be careful. Related links: <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/international/2016/02/a-look-inside-first-class-cabins/">Inside 8 first class cabins that will amaze you</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/international/2016/02/most-photographed-locations-in-london/">London’s 8 most photographed locations</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/international/2016/02/holiday-ideas-for-animal-lovers/">8 holiday ideas every animal lover needs to experience</a>

Travel Tips

The world’s biggest asteroid impact zone discovered in central Australia

Scientists from the Australian National University’s School of Archeology and Anthropology have discovered the world’s biggest asteroid impact zone in Central Australia.The 400-kilometre impact zone is theorised to have been created by a meteorite breaking in two just moments before it crashed into Earth. These two asteroids would have been around 10-kilometres across each, and would have signalled the end of many species of life at the time.The site is lacking in much of the evidence usually left by other meteorites, making it difficult to determine when the impact occurred. Lead researcher Dr Andrew Glikson suspects it could have been more than 300 million years ago.Related links:<a href="/news/news/2015/03/lava-lake/" target="_blank">These photos of the “Gateway to Hell” are incredible</a><a href="/news/news/2015/03/most-beautiful-hotel-in-world/" target="_blank">Is this the most beautiful hotel in the world?</a><a href="/news/news/2015/03/inside-worlds-largest-cave/" target="_blank">Watch this amazing footage inside the world’s biggest cave</a>

News

South Australia considers time zone change

The times may be changing for South Australia, with the government considering changing the state’s time zone. But which way will it go – forward or backward?There is a half-hour time difference to the eastern states, and 90 minutes difference to Western Australia, which can “cause confusion across the spectrum of our daily lives – from sporting fixtures to public service administration and business transactions,” according to Premier Jay Weatherill.There will be a state-wide consultation taking place on the issue, and the process will take at least two months. The Northern Territory government and the community of Broken Hill, two other areas who stick to Australian Central Standard Time.

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