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The life-saving item no Grey Nomad should travel without

When General Practitioner Paul Kelly hung up his stethoscope after nearly 40 years of dedicated service, he had a retirement dream shared by many Australians – hitting the open road and exploring the world with his wife, Robyn. However, with a history of heart problems, he was understandably hesitant about venturing far from medical facilities. His concerns were put to rest when a groundbreaking device, <a href="https://cellaed.io/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the CellAED personal defibrillator</a>, became available. Compact enough to fit in the glove box, this innovative device has opened up a world of possibilities for adventurers like Paul and Robyn. In Australia, a staggering 20,000 people suffer sudden cardiac arrests outside of hospitals each year. Sadly, only 10% of them survive. The introduction of CellAED, a handheld defibrillator, is changing these grim statistics by providing a lifeline to those in remote areas. Paul and Robyn are enthusiastic members of this country's growing community of grey nomads. According to ABS data, nearly 16 million caravan and camping trips were made last year, with the majority taken by individuals in the age group most at risk of cardiac arrest. Therefore, it's not surprising that an increasing number of travellers, like Paul, are arming themselves with a CellAED as they embark on adventures across the country. Paul attributes the device to giving him the peace of mind and confidence to travel far and wide. In the past year alone, he has spent over four months caravanning along the picturesque Murray River, explored the coastlines of New South Wales and Victoria, and even managed a European holiday to France. With no intention of slowing down, Paul's trusted travel companion, the handheld defibrillator, has granted him the freedom to explore the heart of Australia without constant worry. "Hopefully, we'll never have reason to use it," Paul says, "but it sure takes the stress out of wondering what we'd do in an emergency." The CellAED defibrillator was developed by the Australian startup, Rapid Response Revival. This groundbreaking device is a game-changer because it's more affordable, portable and easier to use than conventional Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs). Luke Starr, a spokesman for CellAED, emphasised the importance of addressing the issue of cardiac arrests in remote areas. He noted, "A key reason why so few survive sudden cardiac arrest is because help is too far away or too slow. CellAED was created to tackle that problem. "Travelling with a CellAED personal defibrillator isn't just about looking after yourself. It's about giving your traveling companions and the people you meet along the way a fighting chance if the unthinkable happens. Sudden cardiac arrest is survivable if it's witnessed by someone who knows what to do," Starr added. Starr further advised, "One of the best gifts you can give your travelling companions is learning how to recognise cardiac arrest and what to do if it happens. If someone has collapsed, is unresponsive, and isn't breathing normally, call emergency services, start CPR, and get a defibrillator onto their bare chest. If you can do this within the first couple of minutes of an arrest, you'll be giving the patient their best chances of survival." The CellAED invention aims to offer more people the opportunity to survive cardiac arrest without relying on sheer luck. With CPR training and a CellAED handy, individuals are prepared to save lives from cardiac arrest wherever they go. The groundbreaking invention comes after new research pointed towards alarming statistics about heart conditions in Australia, revealing that people living in regional, rural, or remote areas are 90% more likely to die from heart conditions caused by high blood pressure than their urban counterparts. The Heart of Inequality report from the Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research (MMIHR) at ACU underscores the stark disparities in heart disease outcomes across Australia, particularly affecting regional and Indigenous communities. Key findings from the report include the continuous increase in the burden of chronic heart disease, with hundreds of thousands of hospital admissions for heart-related conditions among Australians aged 35 and over. Moreover, Indigenous Australians living in remote areas develop heart failure on average 20 years earlier than the general population. So, as Australians continue to explore this vast and varied country, lifesaving innovations like the CellAED defibrillator are playing an increasingly crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of adventurers, particularly those in remote areas. Images: CellAED

Travel Trouble

As countries ranging from Indonesia to Mexico aim to attract digital nomads, locals say ‘not so fast’

Should your community welcome <a href="https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/digital%20nomad">digital nomads</a> – individuals who work remotely, allowing them freedom to bounce from country to country? <a href="https://global.oup.com/academic/product/digital-nomads-9780190931780?cc=us&lang=en&">Our research</a> has found that workers are eager to embrace the flexibility of not being tied to an office. And after experiencing economic losses due to the COVID-19 pandemic, cities and countries are concocting ways to entice visitors. One idea involves stretching the meaning of tourism to include remote workers. Today, a growing number of countries offer so-called “<a href="https://nomadgirl.co/countries-with-digital-nomad-visas/">digital nomad visas</a>.” These visas allow longer stays for remote workers and provide clarity about allowable work activities. For example, officials in Bali, Indonesia, are looking to formalize a process for remote workers to procure visas – “<a href="https://coconuts.co/bali/features/the-faster-the-better-bali-tourism-agency-head-tjokorda-bagus-pemayun-talks-digital-nomad-visa-plans-and-what-it-means-for-the-island/">the faster, the better</a>,” as the head of the island’s tourism agency put it. Yet pushback from locals in cities ranging <a href="https://time.com/6072062/barcelona-tourism-residents-covid/">from Barcelona</a> to <a href="https://nypost.com/2022/07/28/mexico-city-residents-angered-by-influx-of-americans-speaking-english-gentrifying-area-report/">Mexico City</a> has made it clear that there are costs and benefits to an influx of remote workers. As we explain in our new book, “Digital Nomads: In Search of Freedom, Community, and Meaningful Work in the New Economy,” the trend of “work tourism” <a href="https://global.oup.com/academic/product/digital-nomads-9780190931780?cc=us&lang=en&">comes with a host of drawbacks</a>. <h2>Wearing out their welcome</h2> For as long as there’s been tourism, locals have griped about the outsiders who come and go. These travelers are usually a welcome boost to the economy – <a href="https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/overtourism">up to a point</a>. They can also wear out their welcome. Perhaps the classic example is <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-06-25/venice-reinventing-itself-as-sustainable-tourism-capital">Venice</a>, where high numbers of tourists stress the canal-filled city’s fragile infrastructure. In the U.S., New Jersey shore residents have long used the term “<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shoobie">shoobies</a>” to denigrate the annual throng of short-term summer tourists. In our research on digital nomads in Bali, locals referred to digital nomads and other tourists as “bules” – a word that roughly translates as “foreigners.” Generally the terms are used to express minor annoyance over crowds and increased traffic. But conventional tourists come and go – their stays usually range from a couple of nights to a couple of weeks. Remote workers stay anywhere from weeks to months – or longer. They spend more time using places and resources traditionally dedicated to the local residents. This raises the chances that outsiders become a grating presence. Excessive numbers of visitors can also raise sustainability concerns, as waves of tourists tax the environment and infrastructure of many destinations. Many of Bali’s beautiful rice fields and surrounding lush forests, for example, are being converted into hotels and villas to serve tourism. <h2>Digital nomads look to stretch their dollars</h2> Whether they’re lazing around or plugging away on their laptops, privileged tourists ultimately change the economics and demographics of an area. Their buying power increases costs and displaces residents, while traditional businesses make way for ones that cater to their tastes. <a href="https://theconversation.com/how-food-became-the-perfect-beachhead-for-gentrification-167761">Where once there was a neighborhood food stand</a>, now there’s an upscale cafe. This dynamic is only exacerbated by long-term tourists. Services like VRBO and Airbnb make it easy for digital nomads to rent apartments for weeks or months at a time, and <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/business-45083954">people around the world are increasingly alarmed</a> at how quickly such rentals can change the affordability and character of a place. Living a vacation lifestyle on a long-term basis implies a need to choose lower-cost destinations. This means that remote workers may particularly contribute to gentrification as they seek out places where their dollars go furthest. In <a href="https://travelnoire.com/digital-nomads-see-why-mexicans-are-fed-up-with-them">Mexico City</a>, residents fear displacement by remote workers able to pay higher rents. In response to calls to choose Mexico City as a remote working destination, one local succinctly expressed opposition: “<a href="https://www.vox.com/the-goods/22999722/mexico-city-pandemic-remote-work-gentrification">Please don’t</a>.” And in <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2019/mar/13/new-orleans-airbnb-treme-short-term-rentals">New Orleans</a>, almost half of all properties in the historic <a href="https://nola.curbed.com/2018/5/16/17356630/treme-new-orleans-neighborhood-history-pictures">Tremé district</a> – one of the oldest Black neighborhoods in the U.S. – have been converted to short-term rentals, displacing longtime residents. <h2>Culture becomes commodified</h2> <a href="https://suitcasemag.com/articles/neocolonial-tourism">Neocolonialism</a> in tourism refers to the way processes such as overtourism and gentrification create a power imbalance that favors newcomers and erodes local ways of life. “There’s a distinction between people who want to learn about the place they are in and those who just like it because it’s cheap,” one digital nomad living in Mexico City <a href="https://www.latimes.com/world-nation/story/2022-07-27/americans-are-flooding-mexico-city-some-mexicans-want-them-to-go-home">recently told the Los Angeles Times</a>. “I’ve met a number of people who don’t really care that they’re in Mexico, they just care that it’s cheap.” Bali, where <a href="https://www.aseantoday.com/2020/10/balis-economy-struggles-to-survive-without-tourists/">as much as 80%</a> of the island’s economy is estimated to be affected by tourism, offers a stark example. People come to Bali to be immersed in the culture’s spiritual rituals, art, nature and dance. But there’s also resentment over yoga lovers, resortgoers and digital nomads “taking over” the island. And some locals come to see the tourism in and around temples and rituals as the transformation of something cherished – the nuanced and spiritual aspects of their culture – into experiences to be bought and sold. For instance, Balinese dance performances are huge tourist draws and are even featured in global promotions for tourism on the island. Yet these performances also have cultural and spiritual meaning, and the impact of tourism on these aspects of dance is <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/37628994_Authenticity_and_commodification_of_Balinese_dance_performances">debated even among performers</a>. So there is inevitably friction, which can be seen in the high levels of <a href="https://coconuts.co/bali/features/living-in-a-petty-crimes-paradise-balis-unreported-thefts-and-muggings/">petty crime</a>against foreigners. Neocolonialism can also pit people from the same country or culture against one another. For example, <a href="https://www.travelmole.com/news/bali-taxi-wars-flare-again/">conflicts arise</a> between local Balinese taxi cooperatives and taxi services that employ drivers from other parts of Indonesia. Although remote employees still make up a small portion of the overall tourist population, their work-related needs and longer stays mean they’re more likely to use services and places frequented by locals. Whether this leads digital nomads to be welcomed or scorned likely depends on both government policies and tourists’ behavior. Will governments take measures such as protecting locals from mass evictions, or will landlords’ desire for higher rents prevail? Will guests live lightly and blend in, trying to learn the local language and culture? Or will they simply focus on working hard and playing harder? As remote work reaches an unprecedented scale, the answers to such questions may determine whether “<a href="https://coconuts.co/bali/features/the-faster-the-better-bali-tourism-agency-head-tjokorda-bagus-pemayun-talks-digital-nomad-visa-plans-and-what-it-means-for-the-island/">the faster, the better</a>” attitude toward digital nomad visas and other incentives continues. Image credits: Getty Images This article originally appeared on <a href="https://theconversation.com/as-countries-ranging-from-indonesia-to-mexico-aim-to-attract-digital-nomads-locals-say-not-so-fast-189283" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a>.

Travel Tips

The rise of the brown nomads and tips on how to do it

Grey Nomads are a stalwart of the outback campsite, but COVID has seen a surge in younger families hitting the road: the Brown Nomads. These are people whose interstate or overseas jaunts have been thwarted by closed borders, or who have been freed from the 9-to-5 grind and want to take the “work from anywhere” concept literally. However, while adventuring sounds fun, it doesn't always generate a secure income. Consider some good financial planning so you can enjoy the nomadic life and still maintain financial security. Before the trip The options for how to stretch finances depends on your specific circumstances. It's important to see a financial planner early on in this process, but there are a few general tips I can offer. Reduce debt. Pay it down as much as you can and see if consolidation makes sense. Do not carry credit card debt into this adventure. Plan your income and expenses. Income sources include savings, investment dividends, long service leave, redundancies, ongoing business, or profits from asset sales. Plan expenses, including buying your start-up gear. Many nomads budget for $1000 per week, but it varies. Once you know how much you'll need you can start planning where to take the funds from. Interrogate your tax and maximising options. If you’ve received a lump sum and want to use it to kick start your nomadic life, there may be some tax-efficient ways to stretch this amount. Consider various strategies, including a variety of superannuation strategies, consider paying down debt and investing in the name of the partner who didn’t earn an income, or earned less. Time your trip to suit your finances. Are there are any benefits to going this or next financial year based on your circumstances? Get your financial foundations in place. There are a few things you’ll need to get right as a basis for any secure financial future. These include having an emergency fund, creating a spending plan, getting the right insurances, optimising all aspects of superannuation including fees and investments inside, and having an up to date estate plan. On the trip Now you’ve hit the road and money is flying out the door and not so much is flying back in. Review your tax. With the income changes there may be tax incentives you are now eligible for. You could make a spousal superannuation contribution, which will reduce your tax bill. You may also be eligible for the Family Tax Benefit. Manage your income streams. Are you relying on income from dividends, term deposits that pay interest or rental income? Should you be? Any income linked to investments can change. Make sure you have enough money parked somewhere to see you through. Spend less money. It sounds obvious, but in my experience, people spend what they have. I’ve had clients go from spending $200,000 per year to $40,000 after switching to a nomadic life for a year. When you aren’t in the ‘rat race’ you’ll be surprised how much joy life gives you for free and all the expenses you no longer have. Use the nomad community. Experienced nomads will tell you their biggest expense is usually fuel. Find the cheapest with apps like Fuel Map Australia. Second to fuel is accommodation. WikiCamps Australia is one of many apps that has information about sites, including where the free ones are. Packing up and hitting the road does not have to cripple you financially. If you set yourself up right and plan well, you could have the adventure of a lifetime while you’re young, fit and healthy and return to a solid financial foundation. Helen Baker is a licensed Australian financial adviser and author of two books: On Your Own Two Feet – Steady Steps to Women’s Financial Independence and On Your Own Two Feet Divorce – Your Survive and Thrive Financial Guide. Proceeds from the books’ sales are donated to charities supporting disadvantaged women. Helen is among the 1% of financial planners who holds a master’s degree in the field. Find out more at <a href="http://www.onyourowntwofeet.com.au">www.onyourowntwofeet.com.au</a> Note this is general advice only and you should seek advice specific to your circumstances.

International Travel

The different styles of nomad travellers

Nomads are just like everybody else, except that the nomadic lifestyle tends to bring out the more extreme version of who you already are with all the advantages and disadvantages that that implies. There are a few broad approaches to life, and they’re all represented in the nomad population. Mr and Ms Spontaneity No planning, no forethought, no thinking ahead, just impulse. This is the nomad who wants the ‘ultimate freedom’ without bounds and limitations. Advantages: serendipity and surprise, because anything can happen anytime and there’s a certain feeling of romantic adventure to everything that happens because, when you live like this, everything is just so fresh, new and surprising. Disadvantages: unpreparedness, which, in Australia, when combined with unfettered impulse, might result in clueless and fatal forays into genuine danger. Having said that though, unpreparedness more often than not just leads to unnecessary headaches and drama. Best suited: for those who stay somewhat on the beaten track where more, shall we say, ‘conscientious’ people who think things through more thoroughly can rescue them if Mr and Ms Spontaneity get into too much trouble through lack of forethought Mr and Ms Prepared-for-Anything The possessors of lots of ‘things’. This nomad is extremely well- equipped for a broad range of eventualities and often has the latest state-of-the-art camping paraphernalia and creature comforts. Advantages: if there’s a problem, they usually have the right tool, piece of equipment or supply to fill the need or solve the problem. Disadvantages: since there are so many things that might happen, or things you might need, it usually means lugging around a lot of stuff and you need to have a vehicle that can handle this and the budget for the increased petrol costs. Best suited: for those who seek security in things and who don’t feel that they have to compromise on comfort or security when they’re away from civilisation. It also helps to have deep pockets for all the extra expenses incurred in lugging around so much stuff. Mr and Ms Organised While ‘the spontaneous’ should be prepared to live on beans (because they’ve run out of anything else) and ‘the prepared’ won’t be able to do without their portable television sets and frozen, gluten-free bread, ‘the organised’ prefer to have the best of both worlds, but this means having to think ahead and doing some research. It’s likely if you're reading this that you’re an ‘organised’, or you have an organised friend who has given you this book in the hopes that your adventure won’t hurt you or kill you unnecessarily. The prepared will have this book, just in case, but have never read it and will only read it when they have to, and the spontaneous might have bought this book on impulse, but they have misplaced it and forgotten about it, because they got distracted by some shiny thing somewhere, which could be why you’re reading it now, having picked it up where they left it behind. Advantages: they’ve done the homework so are less likely to get into trouble and are less likely to have to carry around so much. Disadvantages: might fall into the trap of being over-organised, with a timetable that has no flexibility or give. You might then get upset if you don’t get to that music festival right on time. Or you might miss that spectacular sunset because you’re too busy looking at the map. Best suited: for those who have confidence in their ability to do the necessary research and planning, but who also know that they can improvise if something doesn’t go exactly to plan. We hear this a lot about people who micro-plan their trip, then put so much pressure on themselves when they fail to see things, or don’t allow much time to enjoy simple things or to stop and smell the roses. The Big Pluses of the Nomad Way of Life There’s no doubt that nomadding is very attractive to a lot of people, otherwise there wouldn’t even be a term for this way of living. Some of the pluses include: <ul> <li>You’re not tied down to any particular place because you have a lease or a mortgage that you’re obliged to maintain.</li> <li>You’re not tied down to any time because you’re retired or have a super- flexible job, either because you can take your job anywhere (it can all be done on a laptop) or there’s a need for you even in more remote or far- far flung places (you’re an agency nurse or a freelance electrician).</li> <li>You’re not answerable to anyone, because you’ve either freed yourself from relationship obligations (boss/employee) or your relationships have evolved (parent/grown-up children). There are so many amazing experiences that you could have, but they won’t come to you, you have to go to them and this lifestyle helps you do that.</li> <li>The opportunity for personal growth is there if you want it. You’ll often find yourself doing things you never thought you would do or were even capable of doing. You’ll discover potential that you might not have known you had. You’ll become a different, and, if you do it right, a better version of yourself – more resourceful, more resilient, more capable and more confident.</li> <li>One of the best things you can do to boost confidence in this whole nomadding, camping thing is to do a bit of rehearsal, in fact, a lot of rehearsal. Practice makes perfect, especially if you’ve never done anything like this before.</li> </ul> Credit: The Grey Nomad's Ultimate guide to Australia, New Holland Publishers, RRP $32.99 available from all good book retailers or online at <a href="http://www.newhollandpublishers.com">www.newhollandpublishers.com</a>.

Domestic Travel

Eating out as a "grey nomad"

Eating is one of many people’s favourite subjects, here we’d like to go into a bit of detail about food and cooking in general as a nomad. Food Storage and Preservation Not all RVs have refrigeration or freezing, and those that do will require electricity to run them, which might not always be available. When you consider the space limitations that you’ll have to deal with then nomads have to rethink the way that they do food. Consider the following options <ul> <li>Dried ingredients, such as nuts, dried fruit and grains are high-density, lightweight foods that you can graze on all the time.</li> <li>Leaf vegetables, like Chinese greens and spinach, as well as cauliflower and broccoli, don’t store well, so consume them as soon as possible.</li> <li>Root vegetables and squashes like pumpkin store for a long time especially in cold conditions, but ‘a long time’ doesn’t mean ‘forever’ so don’t wait until they start sprouting before you consume them.</li> <li>Cans are wonderful for wet foods, but they are heavy, so where possible see about buying foods in UHT or Tetra Parks.</li> <li>You might be amazed at what you can accomplish with limited utensils. Clever cooks just love sharing their cleverness with other people and if you just ask around, you’ll get some great tips. For those of you who like watching videos, we have links to several below to get you inspired.</li> <li>If you can, stick to meals that are simple to prepare. This is where a slow cooker might be of great help. The great advantage of slow cooking is that you can buy cheaper but tougher cuts of meats that are more flavoursome, but that lend themselves to long, slow cooking to bring their flavours out and to tenderise them until they melt in your mouth. Slow cooking is also easy, you can just bung in a whole bunch of ingredients in the morning, set and forget, and by evening your meals are ready. Of course, you need a steady supply of power to make this work, but that’s what trailer parks and/or solar electricity are for. Slow cooked meals also freeze really easily, so leftovers become the gift that just keeps on giving.</li> <li>Alternatively, if you have above-average re-making and maintaining skills you can cook anywhere that you can get your hands on firewood, as long as you’re not using an open fire at a time or place where there’s an extreme fire danger.</li> <li>If you’re in a town for a while and have made friends and contacts with access to a kitchen, it might pay to make up a whole bunch of meals like curries, soups, stews and the like that can be frozen and reheated in a microwave later.</li> </ul> We’d strongly recommend getting your hands on a copy of an excellent book by Lisa Kathleen Daly, Healthy Eating for the Time Poor (New Holland, 2018). The book was written for stressed-out urban parents who want to spend far less time in the kitchen but still give their families nutritious meals, but the principles in the book can be easily applied to nomads who want to spend more time enjoying Australia and less time cooking but who don’t want to compromise too much on flavour and healthy eating. Lisa lived in Kakadu in the Northern Territory and in Monkey Mia in Western Australia for over a year, so she’s no stranger to camping and nomadding. Credit: The Grey Nomad's Ultimate guide to Australia, New Holland Publishers, RRP $32.99 available from all good book retailers or online at www.newhollandpublishers.com

Domestic Travel

Stone tools reveal epic trek of nomadic Neanderthals

Neanderthal (Homo neanderthalensis) fossils were first discovered in western Europe in the mid nineteenth century. That was just the first in a long line of surprises thrown up by our closest evolutionary cousins. We reveal another in <a href="https://www.pnas.org/content/early/2020/01/21/1918047117">our new study</a> of the Neanderthals who lived in Chagyrskaya Cave in southern Siberia around 54,000 years ago. Their distinctive stone tools are dead ringers for those found thousands of kilometres away in eastern and central Europe. The intercontinental journey made by these intrepid Neanderthals is equivalent to walking from Sydney to Perth, or from New York to Los Angeles, and is a rare example of long-distance migration by Palaeolithic people. Knuckleheads no more For a long time Neanderthals were seen as intellectual lightweights. However, <a href="https://theconversation.com/neanderthals-were-no-brutes-research-reveals-they-may-have-been-precision-workers-103858">several recent finds</a> have forced a rethink of their cognitive and creative abilities. Neanderthals are now believed to have created 176,000 year-old enigmatic structures made from broken stalactites in a <a href="https://www.nationalgeographic.com/news/2016/05/neanderthals-caves-rings-building-france-archaeology/">cave in France</a>, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/how-we-discovered-that-neanderthals-could-make-art-92127">cave art in Spain</a>that dates back more than 65,000 years. They also used <a href="https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0045927">bird feathers</a> and <a href="https://doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.aar5255">pierced shells</a> bearing traces of red and yellow ochre, possibly as personal ornaments. It seems likely Neanderthals had cognitive capabilities and symbolic behaviours similar to those of modern humans (Homo sapiens). Our knowledge of their geographical range and the nature of their encounters with other groups of humans has also expanded greatly in recent years. We now know that Neanderthals ventured beyond Europe and western Asia, reaching at least as far east as the Altai Mountains. Here, they interbred with another group of archaic humans dubbed the <a href="https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/scientists-recreate-face-denisovan-using-dna-180973177/">Denisovans</a>. Traces of Neanderthal interactions with our own ancestors also persist in the DNA of all living people of Eurasian descent. However, we can still only speculate why the Neanderthals vanished around 40,000 years ago. Banished to Siberia Other questions also remain unresolved. When did Neanderthals first arrive in the Altai? Were there later migration events? Where did these trailblazers begin their trek? And what routes did they take across Asia? <a href="https://www.antiquity.ac.uk/projgall/derevyanko345">Chagyrskaya Cave</a> is nestled in the foothills of the Altai Mountains. The cave deposits were first excavated in 2007 and have yielded almost 90,000 stone tools and numerous bone tools. The excavations have also found 74 Neanderthal fossils – the richest trove of any Altai site – and a range of animal and plant remains, including the abundant bones of bison hunted and butchered by the Neanderthals. We used <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/520438a">optical dating</a> to determine when the cave sediments, artefacts and fossils were deposited, and conducted a detailed study of more than 3,000 stone tools recovered from the deepest archaeological levels. Microscopy analysis revealed that these have remained intact and undisturbed since accumulating during a period of cold and dry climate about 54,000 years ago. Using a variety of statistical techniques, we show that these artefacts bear a striking similarity to so-called <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Micoquien">Micoquian</a> artefacts from central and eastern Europe. This type of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Middle_Paleolithic">Middle Palaeolithic</a> assemblage is readily identified by the distinctive appearance of the bifaces – tools made by removing flakes from both sides – which were used to cut meat. Micoquian-like tools have only been found at one other site in the Altai. All other archaeological assemblages in the Altai and central Asia lack these distinctive artefacts. Neanderthals carrying Micoquian tools may never have reached <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-019-00353-0">Denisova Cave</a>, as there is no fossil or sedimentary DNA evidence of Neanderthals there after 100,000 years ago. Going the distance The presence of Micoquian artefacts at Chagyrskaya Cave suggests at least two separate dispersals of Neanderthals into southern Siberia. Sites such as Denisova Cave were occupied by Neanderthals who entered the region before 100,000 years ago, while the Chagyrskaya Neanderthals arrived later. The Chagyrskaya artefacts most closely resemble those found at sites located 3,000–4,000 km to the west, between the Crimea and northern Caucasus in eastern Europe. Comparison of genetic data supports these geographical links, with the <a href="https://www.eva.mpg.de/genetics/genome-projects/chagyrskaya-neandertal/home.html">Chagyrskaya Neanderthal</a> sharing closer affinities with several European Neanderthals than with a Neanderthal from Denisova Cave. When the Chagyrskaya toolmakers (or their ancestors) left their Neanderthal homeland in eastern Europe for central Asia around 60,000 years ago, they could have headed north and east around the land-locked <a href="https://www.britannica.com/place/Caspian-Sea">Caspian Sea</a>, which was much reduced in size under the prevailing cold and arid conditions. Their intercontinental odyssey over thousands of kilometres is a rarely observed case of long-distance dispersal in the Palaeolithic, and highlights the value of stone tools as culturally informative markers of ancient population movements. Environmental reconstructions from the animal and plant remains at Chagyrskaya Cave suggest that the Neanderthal inhabitants survived in the cold, dry and treeless environment by hunting bison and horses on the steppe or tundra-steppe landscape. Our discoveries reinforce the emerging view of Neanderthals as creative and intelligent people who were skilled survivors. If this was the case, it makes their extinction across Eurasia even more mysterious. Did modern humans deal the fatal blow? The enigma endures, for now. Written by Kseniya Kolobova, Maciej T. Krajcarz and Richard 'Bert' Roberts. Republished with permission of <a href="https://theconversation.com/stone-tools-reveal-epic-trek-of-nomadic-neanderthals-129886">The Conversation.</a>

Travel Tips

How “Grey Nomads” are travelling around Australia

Many of us have heard the term “grey nomads” being thrown around, but what does it actually mean? The term is used to describe Australian retirees who travel around Australia for an extended period of time in a caravan or motorhome. A recent study found that grey nomads represent the highest proportion of those staying in caravan parks, at a massive 40 per cent. Jill Weeks, author of Where to Retire in Australia spoke to <a href="https://thenewdaily.com.au/life/travel/2019/05/31/grey-nomad-australia/">The New Daily</a> about grey nomads who travel the country. “There’s not exactly a typical [grey nomad],” she said. “You’ve got the initially retired ones who like to do a lap of Australia. They’re thinking, ‘Right, we’ll buy the caravan, and we’ll take trips around Australia’,” “You’ve got these other ones that might do shorter trips, just to test things out. Or maybe they’re going to visit family or friends. Or they might have a specific destination they’re travelling to for a reason,” she explained. “Then you’ve got these other ones that I find particularly interesting. Because they either work or volunteer around Australia.” There are grey nomad volunteer and work programs across Australia, which have some volunteers helping out at local history centres or on community projects. “They say to the grey nomads that come in, ‘What did you do, or what do you do now?’ – for example, they had people painting picket fences, they had people helping out at the school,” Weeks said. “They had one chap that came along and they said, ‘What’s your expertise?’,” and he said, ‘I don’t have any skills, I can’t do anything’. “And they found he was a judge, and they said, ‘Right, well we’ve got a task for you. You’re going to lecture at the local high school in legal studies’.” Some grey nomads have gotten their days down to a perfected routine. That’s the case for Jock McLean and his partner Robyn. “When I stopped flying after 40-odd years, I decided I’d buy myself a little camper van, and travel around Australia to see the things I’d visited but [this time] have a good look around each town. So, that’s how I started,” Jock said. They definitely have their favourite spots around the nation. “The seafood [in Port Lincoln, South Australia] is magnificent, and we used to go to Fisherman's Wharf, and buy a dozen oysters and half a kilo of prawns and then drive somewhere and park the van where we had a magnificent view of the sea. We’d eat the oysters and have a glass of white wine,” Jock said. “I describe [the grey nomad lifestyle] to people as sitting in your lounge room, and looking out through a big picture window at a whole panorama going by. You see the countryside, you see fellow travellers, you see animals. You’ve got this whole kaleidoscope moving past you. It’s constantly changing.”

Domestic Travel

8 must-dos before setting off on your grey nomad adventure

Travelling around the country is a wonderful and rewarding experience. Whether you are planning a seasonal trip to the north to evade the winter, a short holiday excursion or are exploring Australia for the foreseeable future, you should plan your travels ahead of time to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. To help you prepare, take a look at our top 8 things to do before you set off on your adventure 1. Plan the route There are several things you should consider before you hit the road. You don’t have to always stick to a strict itinerary, but it is good to plan the basic route, where you would like to stop, where you can fuel up and the attractions you want to see on the way. 2. Update your maps If you are using a GPS device to get you to your destination, make sure that you have updated it to the latest maps before you go. You can also buy a hardcopy map to make planning easier by giving you a bigger view of your trip, and use as a backup should technology ever let you down. 3. Get insurance Your car, trailer or caravan is worth a lot and any damages to it whether by accident, fire, theft, storms or any other issues out of your control can be a major financial problem. Make sure your possessions on the road and back home are adequately covered. Also check that you are fully insured medically, should you require any medical treatment during the trip. 4. Look after your health It’s always a good idea to take care of any health issues before you travel. Schedule a health check with your doctor and organise advanced prescriptions if needed. Pack a first aid kit, any medicine you may need and copies of your prescriptions. 5. Stay connected You may see this trip as a way to get away from technology and noisy day-to-day life. But technology has its upsides and can keep you connected and safe on a long trip. Save important contact information and emergency service numbers on your phone, and pack a tablet or laptop for keeping in touch with loved ones, booking and travel services, and even diarising your trip. Don’t forget to pack the chargers! 6. Prepare your vehicle You can avoid most, if not all, breakdowns or car issues, by ensuring that your car is serviced and in a good condition before you depart. Check the water and oil, tires, lights, breaks and windscreen wipers. Also check the windscreen and mirrors for cracks or chips which you should fix before you go. 7. Don’t forget the entertainment Long trips may become tedious and tiring if you haven’t packed enough items to keep you entertained. What you take along really depends on your interest and hobbies, but can include music, audio books, a novel or two, a journal, games or puzzles. 8. Pack the camera Digital cameras make it easy to capture and diarise your trip, and to share it with loved ones. Remember to pack your camera, memory cards, batteries, charger and accessories such as a mini tripod. Also consider investing in a portable hard drive on which to back your photos up. If your car requires a new windscreen or windscreen repairs before your trip, <a href="http://www.windscreenreplacementperth.com.au/">Autoscreens</a> can help. They are a family-owned and operated business that does easy and convenient windscreen repairs in all Perth areas. For more information visit their <a href="http://www.windscreenreplacementperth.com.au/">website</a> or call 0400 200 086 today. Have you arranged your travel insurance yet? Tailor your cover to your needs and save money by not paying for things you don’t need. <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> For more information about Over60 Travel Insurance, call 1800 622 966. Related links: <a href="/travel/travel-tips/2016/08/is-it-safe-to-travel-to-france/">Is it safe to travel to France?</a> <a href="/travel/travel-tips/2016/08/5-sounds-you-hear-on-the-plane-explained/">5 strange sounds you hear during a flight explained</a> <a href="/travel/travel-tips/2016/08/secret-way-to-raise-the-armrest-on-your-aisle-seat/">There is a secret way to raise the armrest on your aisle seat</a>

Travel Tips

Senior Nomads share Airbnb travel tips

We’ve <a href="/travel/accommodation/2016/03/couple-airbnb-travel-world-retirement/">already introduced you</a> to Michael and Debbie Campbell, now-intrepid travellers and authors of the highly-popular <a href="http://seniornomads.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">Senior Nomads travel blog</a>. Michael and Debbie Campbell are currently in the midst of their once-in-a-lifetime trip around the world, which they have managed to extend indefinitely by cleverly managing their accommodation expenses with <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/?af=61160407&c=apac_au_over60_guest" target="_blank">Airbnb</a>. We had a chat with Debbie to see just how the Senior Nomads do it. While this sort of around the world adventure may seem like a pipe dream to many of us, Michael and Debbie are proof that with a bit of planning anything is possible. What prompted you to start your adventure around the world? We have been very fortunate in our careers and are in good health. As we approached the question of what retirement might look like, we realized we had one more adventure in us, and maybe full-time travel could be a possibility. Especially after Mary, our youngest daughter who lives in Paris with her French husband and our three youngest grandchildren suggested we might like to spend more time in Europe - with an emphasis on spending time in France, of course. She got us thinking. We'd always travelled, and maybe we could turn that into a lifestyle - if we could afford it. Since then we have been to 47 countries outside of America, 136 cities, and stayed in 95 different Airbnbs. What has it been like staying in Airbnb accommodation? Would you recommend it? The other question Mary posed was "had we heard of Airbnb?". That was in December of 2013, and at that time, we had not. But after some initial research, we realized traveling the world staying in Airbnb homes in just about any city, in any country could be a way of "retiring" as we might have in our own city of Seattle. We would be living in other people’s homes instead of our own in cities around the world. So we downsized. We sold most of our worldly goods, including our 41' Beneteau sailboat (that was hard). We rented our home for the first two years of our travels (and recently sold it - so now we are true Nomads). And now we rely on whatever we find behind our next front door to match our vision of "home". So far, as we close in on our 95th Airbnb, we have had success, although bringing our pillows from home goes a long way in that regard. Especially since you can choose your price point and the type of accommodation. We usually rent an entire home with a kitchen so we can cook most of our own meals. That is one way we can afford this lifestyle. We also search for wifi, and scrutinize the pictures to see just what the house or flat might be like to live in for several days to two weeks. Does it have a big table where we can work? Does the kitchen look adequate? Are there reading lights on both sides of the bed? Can we walk to the city centre and are there stores nearby? Once you have been doing this for a while you get to know what you need. The great thing about Airbnb is you can use the filters to find just the right place at the right price that works for you. We also take the time to communicate with our hosts before we arrive so we have a relationship with someone who cares about you before you arrive, and almost always becomes a friend you can count on in an unfamiliar city. What has been the most memorable experiences up until this point (for good or bad reasons)? We have so many memories good and bad at this point it is hard to choose "the most" of either! The day we left for the first time with everything we'd be travelling with stuffed into two suitcases, two small daypacks, and an over-sized purse was certainly memorable! Locking Michael in our Airbnb in Athens without a way for me to get in, or him to get out was memorable. That took some serious scrambling to find our host and a second set of keys. Having an hour long parade pass literally two feet from our front door in San Miguel de Allende in Mexico was interesting. Having the ruins in Ephesus, Turkey almost to ourselves in the off-season was amazing. And visiting our three young grandchildren in Paris creates wonderful memories every time we visit. Is there a particular destination that stands out as a favourite? Any time we come home to Seattle! And of course when we can see our daughter and her husband and our three grandchildren in Paris. What advice would you give to travellers looking to undertake a similar journey? Be flexible. Be curious. Be patient. Arrive early. Enjoy the day - you don't have to do everything. That's the beauty of this lifestyle. You live in your home for the moment just like you would wherever you travelled from. You can read the paper, make a pot of soup, go for a long walk and visit the Eiffel tower tomorrow. On a more practical note - resist over packing or you'll miss the chance to enhance your wardrobe or collect small souvenirs. We are constantly fighting weight (our own and our baggage limits). We don't buy anything we can't eat, drink, or buy tickets to attend or ride in. Take the latest (and smallest) devices and know how to use them so you can stay in touch with friends and family, log your adventures and share photos. Our current plan is to continue to do this as long as we are still in love, learning every day, close to budget and have our health! <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/?af=61160407&c=apac_au_over60_guest" target="_blank">Whether you want to make money by renting your place or to find affordable accommodation options and stretch your travel budget further, head over to Airbnb now and have a look around.</a> Related links: <a href="/travel/international-travel/2016/01/how-i-drove-a-motorhome-around-the-world/">When I retired I drove a motorhome around the world</a> <a href="/travel/domestic-travel/2015/12/walking-the-heysen-tail/">How I walked the 1,200km Heysen Trail</a> <a href="/travel/accommodation/2016/03/widow-new-lease-on-life-thanks-to-airbnb/">Widow’s new lease on life thanks to Airbnb</a>

Accommodation

How to plan a grey nomad adventure

If you’re planning the retirement road trip of a lifetime, effective planning is key to a great experience. Here are a few tips to help you get ready to roll. Trip planning – Making sure your vehicle of choice is right for the job is vital. Give it a full service and check that the tyres are in good condition. You should also look at taking a towing course if you’re towing make sure that the towing vehicle and caravan/trailer are set up and packed correctly. You need to be sure that the appropriate towbar is being used, a suitable braking system is in place, and that the rig complies with all weight restrictions. Itinerary – Invest the time in researching your route, destinations, attractions and features to ensure you make the most of the trip. Also check for likely weather where you’re travelling. Avoid rainy seasons and temperature extremes. Health check - Make sure you’re in tip-top shape as you may not have direct access to consistent medical care on the road. Consider the following: <ul> <li>A full check-up with your doctor and assessment of any medications as well as optical and dental. Ask for advance prescriptions if possible.</li> <li>Purchasing a fully equipped first aid kit and take a first-aid course. It will help you cope with emergencies and will also give you extra peace of mind.</li> <li>Check that you have adequate health and travel insurance and that it includes appropriate ambulance cover.</li> </ul> Bills and letters – Unfortunately the bills won’t magically disappear while you’re away so make sure of the following: <ul> <li>Redirecting mail or having someone pick it up.</li> <li>Make sure you document the due dates for all of your bills.</li> <li>Organise direct debits for your bills and look at setting up internet banking. These days you can be conducting most of your banking and bill paying via your mobile phone . </li> </ul> Keeping in touch – Make sure you’re set up and familiar with free social media tools like Skype, Facebook and Twitter to keep in touch with loved ones. If you are not technologically savvy ask the grandkids for a lesson or two before you leave. What to pack – Bring a range of clothing to suit different climates but don’t go over the top. Travelling light allows you to pack more quickly and efficiently and it will also save money on fuel. You can always top up clothing and other items on the way. Don’t forget to pack a folding table and camp chairs for sitting outside. There are also lots of ingenious camping gadgets available which may enhance your trip. A vehicle-mounted shower device powered by car battery is very useful in bush camping situations if your rig doesn’t have its own shower. Hammocks, Swiss army knives, portable water filters and battery-less torches are just a few other handy items to consider bringing along. Budget – It’s vital to develop a comprehensive budget well in advance of your trip that factors your major costs like petrol, food and accommodation. It’s also important to consider cost variations in regional areas, across different states, and peak vs. low seasons. A solid budget also takes into account contingency funds for those once in a lifetime opportunities like a helicopter ride, while an emergency stash is essential for unexpected circumstances that may arise.

Travel Tips

Incredible images of nomadic Mongolian tribe with wild animals will leave you speechless

The Dukha people have lived in the same region of Mongolia for centuries. During that time, they’ve developed a special relationship with the wild animals of the area. When photographer Hamid Sardar-Afkhami visited the tribe, he documented his experience with these stunning images.<img width="497" height="330" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/4592/dukha_497x330.jpg" alt="Dukha"><img width="497" height="330" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/4593/dukha2_497x330.jpg" alt="Dukha2"><img width="497" height="330" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/4594/dukha3_497x330.jpg" alt="Dukha3"><img width="497" height="330" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/4595/dukha4_497x330.jpg" alt="Dukha4"><img width="497" height="370" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/4596/dukha5_497x370.jpg" alt="Dukha5"><img width="497" height="330" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/4597/dukha6_497x330.jpg" alt="Dukha6">Related links:<a href="/news/news/2015/03/dragon-lizard-playing-a-leaf-guitar/" target="_blank">This dragon lizard has been snapped using a leaf like a guitar</a><a href="/news/news/2015/03/endangered-kitten-born-lowry/" target="_blank">See the gorgeous new clouded leopard cub</a><a href="/news/news/2015/03/cat-map-of-australia-nose/" target="_blank">Meet the cat with a map of Australia on her nose</a>

News

Five money tips for planning the grey nomad lifestyle

Do you have a retirement bucket list? It seems many Australians do, with over half the population compiling a list of all the experiences, adventures, holidays and achievements they wish to accomplish in their lifetime.The research by Rest Industry Super found that out of the 1000 people over the age of 55 it surveyed earlier this year, one in two had a bucket list. Top of their list? Travel! While many wanted to go on once-in-a-lifetime adventures to places like the US or Brazil, 43 per cent want to go on a road trip. With long stretches of road, isolated towns and geographical diversity, Australia is one of the best places in the world to live and go on a road trip.The tradition of grey nomads is strong and proud in this country, with the number of grey-haired retirees packing their RV and taking to the open road growing each year. And why not? It’s cheaper than flying overseas, you don’t need to squeeze yourself into your economy class seat while getting your elbow bumped by the refreshments cart and, most importantly, you’re seeing more of the beautiful country you call home. However, it can also take a financial toll, so you need to be prepared to ensure you’re not worrying about money while trying to take a photo of Uluru.Helen Baker, a Brisbane-based financial planner and author of On Your Own Two Feet: Steady Steps to Women’s Financial Independence, says grey nomads have slugged it out in workplaces and raising a family to enjoy the fruits of their hard work, but if you’re not financially secure, the dream may stay as just that – a dream. She suggests developing a financial plan for those who are looking to live the grey nomad life for at least 12 months.“I love that retirees are fitter than ever and more adventurous. Those who do the ‘grey nomad’ life well retire with finances to support their ability to trek around this beautiful big nation and still ‘live’ when they decide it’s time to settle down,” she says.“Grey nomads appear to have proudly taken a decision that they are not going to pass on all their money to their kids. They have worked hard all through their lives, walked through the recession with gritted teeth, raised and educated their children; now they want to enjoy the fresh air, the beauty of Australia, enjoy living and be adventurous.”When developing a financial plan, Ms Baker suggests planning as far in advance as possible, with some of the following key things to consider:<ul><li>Investigate the transition into retirement scheme, allowing you to reduce your work hours and have more ‘fun’ time, easing into retirement.</li><li>Think about contributing more into your superannuation in your last few years of working. It’s an effective way of forced savings with tax benefits.</li><li>Calculate how much money you’ll need on the road. You may want to pick up part-time work. How much could you realistically earn? There’s plenty of work around for grey nomads.</li><li>If you do a stint of fruit picking on your journey, know how that will affect your pension and tax.</li><li>Have you allowed for the grey nomad ‘toys’ – the caravan or motorhome, the 4WD, the boat? How will you fund those?</li></ul>

Money & Banking

Five money tips for planning the grey nomad lifestyle

Money & Banking

How to prepare for a road trip

Planning a road trip? Even if you’re a seasoned traveller, it’s important to prepare properly to ensure you’re ready for whatever is thrown in your direction.Road trips are a popular way to see some of the most out-of-the-way places in Australia that aren’t as accessible via plane or train. Whether you’re planning on driving to a secluded coastal spot or a lovely little town with cafes and historic attractions, planning beforehand is the best way to ensure your trip gets off to a good start. Here’s what to do before starting that engine:Research is key. Good planning is vital to any road trip or adventure. Knowing the address of where you’re going and how to get there, the areas you expect to travel through, what to expect along the way including rest spots, and your estimated time of arrival is all important information to plan.It’s a good idea to write down your travel plans as one big itinerary and give it to a close friend or family member before you leave. Having someone else know where you’ll be and when can be very helpful if you were to get stuck somewhere without any phone reception.Know when the wildlife is most active. While this may sound like a bit of an odd thing to know before your trip, it’s a good one. Through the winter months, daylight is shorter and we are on the roads more at the very time of day when animals tend to be more active and invade our roads.If an animal does cross your path, brake gently and don’t swerve wildly to avoid it. If you hit an animal and stop to check its welfare, be mindful of traffic and remember that animals can get aggressive when injured or frightened.Pack water and food. Keep water in a shaded part of your car, particularly if it’s in plastic bottles or containers. A good rule of thumb is to have enough supplies to last you at least three or four days. With this in mind, it’s a good idea to also pack non-perishable items, like muesli bars.Carry extra petrol. We live in a big vast land with long stretches of road without roadhouses or petrol stations. Carrying an extra petrol tin could be a life saver when you’ve gone in circles for the last hour or so and are running dangerously light on fuel. Having extra fuel on hand for long trips minimises the risk of being stranded in the middle of nowhere.Be ready for an emergency. It’s always better to be over-prepared than under-prepared. Some useful items to bring along with you include: rope, car jack, spare tyre, jumper cables, tool kit and of course, a first aid kit. A UHF radio or satellite phone can also be a good idea if you plan on travelling to remote areas of the outback.Be sure to get your vehicle serviced. Before heading out on any road trip, always check the oil and water levels, as well as your tyres. On top of that, a well-serviced vehicle will give you peace of mind knowing it’s been put through the rigour in ensuring it’s going to get you from A to B safely.

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The life-saving item no Grey Nomad should travel without

As countries ranging from Indonesia to Mexico aim to attract digital nomads, locals say ‘not so fast’