Lifestyle

Chikungunya is breaking out in China. Photo Credit: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (Unsplash) The World Health Organisation (WHO) issued an urgent alert last month against the latest outbreak of mosquito-borne Chikungunya. Authorities in China are now scrambling in order to contain the spread of the disease after nearly 8,000 new cases have appeared in less than one …

Low fuel light on? Pull over safely and signal—letting the car splutter to a halt can lead to a €200 fine in Spain. Credit: TetyanaRusanova / Shutterstock We’ve all done it. As you cruise along listening to your favorite podcast, the low-fuel indicator blinks. I’ll be fine until the next station. After a few kilometres the engine starts to sputter, …

Long eyelashes close-up. Credit: Lisa Pexels. Are the potential side effects of eyelash serums worth it? Long, fluttery eyelashes are a long-standing symbol of femininity. They frame and open the eyes, creating a coquettish appearance that attracts attention. It’s no surprise that lash serums – promising to lengthen, thicken, and strengthen lashes – have become a beauty must-have. A common …

When you thaw your meat on a counter, it increases the risk of contamination. Photo credit: Freepik Many households freeze meat at room temperature, but experts in food safety warn that it can be unsafe. The convenience of defrosting at room temperatures is outweighed by the increased risk of bacteria growth. This could lead to foodborne illness. If meat is …

Tunisia undertakes urgent and important efforts to protect the Sloughi. An ancient sighthound, the Sloughi holds a unique place in Tunisia’s cultural heritage. The Central Canine Tunisienne estimates that less than 200 purebred Sloughis are left in Tunisia, sparking concerns over the breed’s survival. Since centuries, the Sloughi has been closely linked with North African nomad tribes. Its lean and …

A typical roadside speed camera in Spain — the DGT is rolling out 32 new devices this summer, including 25 average-speed sections and 7 fixed units across 11 regions. Credit : Pablo Prat Shutterstock Spain’s summer holiday has a brand new co-pilot. 32 speed cameras have been installed in 11 regions. In addition to the 7 fixed cameras, there are …

Avoid high mountain areas, where fires spread rapidly. Credit: Sua Sponte Photography /Shutterstock.com The summer in Spain is marked by an increase in wildfires. Most of these are the result of human negligence. When fires break out near roads, the danger level rises sharply — making it vital to know how to react if you come across one while driving. …

Spain’s first dynamic hard shoulder: the AP-4 southbound by Las Cabezas de San Juan (km 41.12–44.5), which DGT will open to cars at peak times when signposted. Credit : X – Ministerio Transportes y Movilidad Sostenible @transportesgob Holiday traffic to Cádiz is about to get a little less hair-pulling. In a first for Spain, the DGT will let cars use …

What about a power nap while driving? In Spain it’s legal if you’re properly parked and everything stays inside the vehicle — but turn it into “camping” and local fines of €60–€600 can follow. Credit: LightField Studios and Shutterstock The red-eye, heavy eyelids and the lack of a hotel are all signs that you’re on your way. All of us …

New 2+1 road sign in Spain (S-1c) — three lanes with an alternating centre lane for overtaking. Misuse can mean a €200 fine and 4 points. Credit : Screenshot taken from the website revista.dgt.es Spain’s road network is getting a quiet upgrade this summer – and one new road sign is already catching drivers out. It’s the S-1c ‘Carretera 2+1′ …