Friday, January 21, 2022

Best Countries to retire

 Ever wondered which countries provide the best retirement for their elderly? Developed by Natixis Investment Managers and CoreData Research, the Global Retirement Index (GRI) ranks 44 countries based on 18 indicators within four sub-indexes. 

The ranking considers a wide range of factors, rating everything from income-per-capita and inflation to life expectancy and healthcare spending. So which countries are the best to spend the golden years of retirement? Read on to discover the top 25.

25th place: France

2 of 26 Photos in Gallery: Out of the 44 countries analysed, India has the poorest overall score, while France has retained its position as the lowest-rated among the top 25 for the second year running.  In terms of the GRI's four sub-indexes – Health, Quality of Life, Material Wellbeing, and Finances in Retirement – France has a mixed bag of results. It scores well for Health, sitting in fourth place, which is little wonder given its excellent healthcare system, yet is one of the lowest-ranked on the Finances sub-index. This is due to its high taxes being a major drag on retirees' incomes.

Out of the 44 countries analysed, India has the poorest overall score, while France has retained its position as the lowest-rated among the top 25 for the second year running.

In terms of the GRI's four sub-indexes – Health, Quality of Life, Material Wellbeing, and Finances in Retirement – France has a mixed bag of results. It scores well for Health, sitting in fourth place, which is little wonder given its excellent healthcare system, yet is one of the lowest-ranked on the Finances sub-index. This is due to its high taxes being a major drag on retirees' incomes.

24th place: Estonia

3 of 26 Photos in Gallery: Estonia is also a non-mover, remaining in 24th position in the latest index. It ranks best in the Finances sub-index, which encompass inflation, tax pressure, interest rates, and more, with the nation placing seventh of those ranked.  On the flipside, Estonia has the poorest score in the top 25 for Material Wellbeing – which covers income equality, income-per-capita, and unemployment – as well as the second-lowest for Quality of Life.

Estonia is also a non-mover, remaining in 24th position in the latest index. It ranks best in the Finances sub-index, which encompass inflation, tax pressure, interest rates, and more, with the nation placing seventh of those ranked.

On the flipside, Estonia has the poorest score in the top 25 for Material Wellbeing – which covers income equality, income-per-capita, and unemployment – as well as the second-lowest for Quality of Life.

23rd place: South Korea

4 of 26 Photos in Gallery: Moving down one place is South Korea. While it sat at position 22 last year, the country's tumble is due in part to the dubious honour of having the lowest score of the top 25 in the Quality of Life sub-index. South Korea scores poorly in three of the indicators: biodiversity, happiness, and environmental.  The Asian nation is also rated relatively poorly for Health but redeems itself in terms of the Finances sub-index, coming in fifth place for the latter. Its senior citizens get a better deal than those in many other countries, especially when factoring in the likes of taxes and inflation.

Moving down one place is South Korea. While it sat at position 22 last year, the country's tumble is due in part to the dubious honour of having the lowest score of the top 25 in the Quality of Life sub-index. South Korea scores poorly in three of the indicators: biodiversity, happiness, and environmental.

The Asian nation is also rated relatively poorly for Health but redeems itself in terms of the Finances sub-index, coming in fifth place for the latter. Its senior citizens get a better deal than those in many other countries, especially when factoring in the likes of taxes and inflation.

22nd place: Japan

5 of 26 Photos in Gallery: Japan, which has moved up one position in this year's edition of the GRI, tops the Health sub-index. This makes sense given that it's the country with the greatest life expectancy (85.03 years, according to Worldometers), as well as having an exemplary healthcare system.  Japan is also joint number one for employment. Its weaker areas, however, are the Quality of Life and Finances sub-indexes. It scores the lowest out of all the 44 nations covered for old-age dependency since it has the oldest population on the planet, meaning fewer people of working age and a greater strain on the state to look after its elderly.

Japan, which has moved up one position in this year's edition of the GRI, tops the Health sub-index. This makes sense given that it's the country with the greatest life expectancy (85.03 years, according to Worldometers), as well as having an exemplary healthcare system.

Japan is also joint number one for employment. Its weaker areas, however, are the Quality of Life and Finances sub-indexes. It scores the lowest out of all the 44 nations covered for old-age dependency since it has the oldest population on the planet, meaning fewer people of working age and a greater strain on the state to look after its elderly.

21st place: Belgium

6 of 26 Photos in Gallery: Belgium retains its 21st position, although its overall score is slightly lower compared to 2020.  The country performs best in the Health sub-index (it's still a dip though, and ranks 16th) and worst in Finances. As is the case with neighbouring France, taxes can be punishing for Belgian seniors, and its population is ageing fast, which dents its total score.

Belgium retains its 21st position, although its overall score is slightly lower compared to 2020.

The country performs best in the Health sub-index (it's still a dip though, and ranks 16th) and worst in Finances. As is the case with neighbouring France, taxes can be punishing for Belgian seniors, and its population is ageing fast, which dents its total score.

20th place: Malta

7 of 26 Photos in Gallery: Likewise, Malta is a non-mover in terms of its ranking but has still scored lower in the most recent edition of the GRI.  The island nation, which is located in the central Mediterranean Sea, has decent, albeit unspectacular, ratings in three of the four sub-indexes. For Material Wellbeing, however, it's landed in at an impressive seventh place thanks to its high levels of income equality and low unemployment rates.

Likewise, Malta is a non-mover in terms of its ranking but has still scored lower in the most recent edition of the GRI.

The island nation, which is located in the central Mediterranean Sea, has decent, albeit unspectacular, ratings in three of the four sub-indexes. For Material Wellbeing, however, it's landed in at an impressive seventh place thanks to its high levels of income equality and low unemployment rates.

19th place: Israel

8 of 26 Photos in Gallery: Israel, which has moved down one spot, excels when it comes to Finances, even though its score in this sub-index is lower compared to the previous GRI.  The country also scores well in terms of Material Wellbeing. Its ratings for Quality of Life and Health, meanwhile, are stable but certainly nothing to write home about when compared to other nations in the top 25.

Israel, which has moved down one spot, excels when it comes to Finances, even though its score in this sub-index is lower compared to the previous GRI.

The country also scores well in terms of Material Wellbeing. Its ratings for Quality of Life and Health, meanwhile, are stable but certainly nothing to write home about when compared to other nations in the top 25.

18th place: UK

9 of 26 Photos in Gallery: The UK is sliding down in the rankings, having dropped one spot in the 2020 edition of the GRI and yet another in this year's. It now sits in 18th place, compared to 16th in 2019.  The country's best sub-index score is for Quality of Life, where it comes seventh overall, thanks to top scores for water and sanitation. However, Finances definitely aren't its strongest point, with the nation placed 29th due to tax pressures and debt.

The UK is sliding down in the rankings, having dropped one spot in the 2020 edition of the GRI and yet another in this year's. It now sits in 18th place, compared to 16th in 2019.

The country's best sub-index score is for Quality of Life, where it comes seventh overall, thanks to top scores for water and sanitation. However, Finances definitely aren't its strongest point, with the nation placed 29th due to tax pressures and debt.

17th place: USA

10 of 26 Photos in Gallery: The US has also moved down one position this year, losing points in three out of four sub-indexes. Most notable is the dip in Health, with the country seeing a dramatic decrease in life expectancy due to the impact of COVID-19.  America's highest-rated sub-index is Finances, for which it's placed 11th, while its poorest is Material Wellbeing. Although income-per-capita is high, income inequality is rife across the country.

The US has also moved down one position this year, losing points in three out of four sub-indexes. Most notable is the dip in Health, with the country seeing a dramatic decrease in life expectancy due to the impact of COVID-19.

America's highest-rated sub-index is Finances, for which it's placed 11th, while its poorest is Material Wellbeing. Although income-per-capita is high, income inequality is rife across the country.

16th place: Slovenia

11 of 26 Photos in Gallery: The highest climber in the latest index, Slovenia has moved up three spots, with improved scores across the Material Wellbeing, Quality of Life, and Health sub-indexes.  In contrast to the US, the Central European country has an exceptional income equality score, ranking third. Other notable achievements include its biodiversity, with the nation ranked second in the world for it in the GRI.

The highest climber in the latest index, Slovenia has moved up three spots, with improved scores across the Material Wellbeing, Quality of Life, and Health sub-indexes.

In contrast to the US, the Central European country has an exceptional income equality score, ranking third. Other notable achievements include its biodiversity, with the nation ranked second in the world for it in the GRI.

15th place: Finland

12 of 26 Photos in Gallery: Sticking in 15th place, Finland is sits first in the Quality of Life sub-index. It's ranked the happiest country in the world, and has also garnered exceptionally high scores for air quality, water, and sanitation.   Where the Scandinavian country does fall short, however, is in the Finances sub-index. This is partly due to its ageing population, as well as the heavy tax burden it imposes on its senior citizens.

Sticking in 15th place, Finland is sits first in the Quality of Life sub-index. It's ranked the happiest country in the world, and has also garnered exceptionally high scores for air quality, water, and sanitation. 

Where the Scandinavian country does fall short, however, is in the Finances sub-index. This is partly due to its ageing population, as well as the heavy tax burden it imposes on its senior citizens.

14th place: Czech Republic

13 of 26 Photos in Gallery: The Czech Republic is another non-mover. Its overriding strength is Material Wellbeing, for which it scores the joint-highest out of all countries included in the index for employment. It also scores fourth for income equality.  This is offset by relatively low ratings in the Health and Quality of Life sub-indexes. The country's environmental indicator, for example, is the 10th-lowest among all GRI nations.

The Czech Republic is another non-mover. Its overriding strength is Material Wellbeing, for which it scores the joint-highest out of all countries included in the index for employment. It also scores fourth for income equality.

This is offset by relatively low ratings in the Health and Quality of Life sub-indexes. The country's environmental indicator, for example, is the 10th-lowest among all GRI nations.

13th place: Sweden

14 of 26 Photos in Gallery: Although still a great location for retirees, Sweden has actually slipped two positions down the rankings this year. This drop is nothing, however, compared to the nine positions it has dropped since 2019, when it ranked 4th.  Quality of Life is its strongest area, for which the Nordic nation is placed fifth, while its weakest is Finances, where its score has plummeted in the past two years due to its high rates of taxation and low interest rates.

Although still a great location for retirees, Sweden has actually slipped two positions down the rankings this year. This drop is nothing, however, compared to the nine positions it has dropped since 2019, when it ranked 4th.

Quality of Life is its strongest area, for which the Nordic nation is placed fifth, while its weakest is Finances, where its score has plummeted in the past two years due to its high rates of taxation and low interest rates.

12th place: Austria

15 of 26 Photos in Gallery: Austria has maintained its position as the 12th best country, even managing to improve on its overall score in the latest GRI.  The country makes the top 10 when it comes to the Material Wellbeing and Quality of Life sub-indexes. However, it's placed at 14th in the Health sub-index, and scrapes into 35th for Finances thanks to its high taxes for senior citizens.

Austria has maintained its position as the 12th best country, even managing to improve on its overall score in the latest GRI.

The country makes the top 10 when it comes to the Material Wellbeing and Quality of Life sub-indexes. However, it's placed at 14th in the Health sub-index, and scrapes into 35th for Finances thanks to its high taxes for senior citizens.

11th place: Luxembourg

16 of 26 Photos in Gallery: The tiny principality of Luxembourg has risen two spots in the latest index. The Health sub-index is its top-scorer, with the country placed third in the world on account of its superlative health system and long life expectancy.  Like many wealthy European countries, however, the tax burden on older people is high in Luxembourg, which detrimentally impacts its ranking in the Finances sub-index.

The tiny principality of Luxembourg has risen two spots in the latest index. The Health sub-index is its top-scorer, with the country placed third in the world on account of its superlative health system and long life expectancy.

Like many wealthy European countries, however, the tax burden on older people is high in Luxembourg, which detrimentally impacts its ranking in the Finances sub-index.

10th place: Canada

17 of 26 Photos in Gallery: Back to North America. Canada easily beats its southern neighbour, making it a better place for retirees to reside when compared to the USA.  That said, Canada has still moved down two spots in the rankings compared to 2020. Despite this, it maintains respectable scores across all four sub-indexes, with the highest awarded for Finances in Retirement and the lowest for Material Wellbeing.

Back to North America. Canada easily beats its southern neighbour, making it a better place for retirees to reside when compared to the USA.

That said, Canada has still moved down two spots in the rankings compared to 2020. Despite this, it maintains respectable scores across all four sub-indexes, with the highest awarded for Finances in Retirement and the lowest for Material Wellbeing.

9th place: Denmark

18 of 26 Photos in Gallery: Although it's a non-mover in terms of its 9th place ranking, which it has retained since 2019, Denmark has still scored fractionally higher in the latest GRI.  Again, like the majority of affluent European countries, particularly those in Scandinavia, the nation shines in three of the sub-indexes but is let down by Finances as a result of its high levels of taxation.

Although it's a non-mover in terms of its 9th place ranking, which it has retained since 2019, Denmark has still scored fractionally higher in the latest GRI.

Again, like the majority of affluent European countries, particularly those in Scandinavia, the nation shines in three of the sub-indexes but is let down by Finances as a result of its high levels of taxation.

8th place: Germany

19 of 26 Photos in Gallery: Germany has shot up two spots in the latest index, landing higher scores in three of its four sub-indexes.  Material Wellbeing is its greatest strength, the country is placed fifth courtesy of its high levels of employment, while Finances is its weakest due to high taxes on seniors.

Germany has shot up two spots in the latest index, landing higher scores in three of its four sub-indexes.

Material Wellbeing is its greatest strength, the country is placed fifth courtesy of its high levels of employment, while Finances is its weakest due to high taxes on seniors.

7th place: Australia

20 of 26 Photos in Gallery: Moving Down Under, Australia maintains its position as the 7th best place for retirees, a position it has held since 2019. As opposed to the bulk of European countries that dominate the top 25, Finances is Australia's strongest sub-index thanks to its lower tax burden on seniors, although its score has dropped in the latest GRI.  Health is also highly rated, while Material Wellbeing has the worst score: Australia ranks 23rd within this sub-index.

Moving Down Under, Australia maintains its position as the 7th best place for retirees, a position it has held since 2019. As opposed to the bulk of European countries that dominate the top 25, Finances is Australia's strongest sub-index thanks to its lower tax burden on seniors, although its score has dropped in the latest GRI.

Health is also highly rated, while Material Wellbeing has the worst score: Australia ranks 23rd within this sub-index.

6th place: New Zealand

21 of 26 Photos in Gallery: New Zealand has also held on to its plum position of 6th place. The country is ranked even higher than Australia in the Finances sub-index, landing the third-best position against Australia's fourth.  It also comfortably outpaces its neighbour in Quality of Life due to its air quality, happiness, and environmental factors being particularly good, but scores lower in terms of both Health and Material Wellbeing.

New Zealand has also held on to its plum position of 6th place. The country is ranked even higher than Australia in the Finances sub-index, landing the third-best position against Australia's fourth.

It also comfortably outpaces its neighbour in Quality of Life due to its air quality, happiness, and environmental factors being particularly good, but scores lower in terms of both Health and Material Wellbeing.

5th place: Netherlands

22 of 26 Photos in Gallery: Another non-mover, the Netherlands' highest-ranked sub-index is Material Wellbeing – the country is placed joint-first for employment, eighth for income equality and ninth for income-per-capita.  Health is also highly rated, as is Quality of Life. When it comes to Finances, however, the country ranks 28th. This is due to high taxes, which help to guarantee robust income equality as well as fund the public services necessary for superior living standards.

Another non-mover, the Netherlands' highest-ranked sub-index is Material Wellbeing – the country is placed joint-first for employment, eighth for income equality and ninth for income-per-capita.

Health is also highly rated, as is Quality of Life. When it comes to Finances, however, the country ranks 28th. This is due to high taxes, which help to guarantee robust income equality as well as fund the public services necessary for superior living standards.

4th place: Ireland

23 of 26 Photos in Gallery: An excellent all-rounder, Ireland has maintained its 2020 position in the 2021 edition of the GRI, making it the fourth-best country for retirees.  It enjoys high rankings across all four sub-indexes, in contrast to the many European nations that drop points due to high tax rates. The nation lands in the top 10 for Health, Finances and Material Wellbeing, and is placed 11th for Quality of Life.

An excellent all-rounder, Ireland has maintained its 2020 position in the 2021 edition of the GRI, making it the fourth-best country for retirees.

It enjoys high rankings across all four sub-indexes, in contrast to the many European nations that drop points due to high tax rates. The nation lands in the top 10 for Health, Finances and Material Wellbeing, and is placed 11th for Quality of Life.

3rd place: Norway

24 of 26 Photos in Gallery: A wonderful place for retirees, non-mover Norway clearly has much to offer senior citizens. After all, the country placed an impressive second in three of its sub-indexes: Health, Material Wellbeing and Quality of Life.   The only fly in the ointment is the country's comparatively low score in the Finances sub-index, for which it scrapes into 25th place. Again, the nation's steep taxes are to blame for this fairly poor showing.

A wonderful place for retirees, non-mover Norway clearly has much to offer senior citizens. After all, the country placed an impressive second in three of its sub-indexes: Health, Material Wellbeing and Quality of Life. 

The only fly in the ointment is the country's comparatively low score in the Finances sub-index, for which it scrapes into 25th place. Again, the nation's steep taxes are to blame for this fairly poor showing.

2nd place: Switzerland

25 of 26 Photos in Gallery: Conversely, fellow non-mover Switzerland performs fantastically in the Finances sub-index, bagging 2nd place within the sub-index. (Singapore actually topped this sub-index but falls seriously short on other indicators, hence why it failed to make the overall top 25.)  Wealthy Switzerland has also picked up generous scores for Quality of Life and Health, placing 4th and 5th respectively. Its Material Wellbeing ranking could be better, landing an unremarkable 14th place.

Conversely, fellow non-mover Switzerland performs fantastically in the Finances sub-index, bagging 2nd place within the sub-index. (Singapore actually topped this sub-index but falls seriously short on other indicators, hence why it failed to make the overall top 25.)

Wealthy Switzerland has also picked up generous scores for Quality of Life and Health, placing 4th and 5th respectively. Its Material Wellbeing ranking could be better, landing an unremarkable 14th place.

Best: Iceland

26 of 26 Photos in Gallery: Iceland pretty much ticks all the retirement security boxes, and has held on to its top-spot ranking for the third year running.  The country is ranked 12th for Health, with health expenditure especially strong. It's the world's highest-scorer for Material Wellbeing, while its scores for Quality of Life and Finances place it in the top 10 in both sub-indexes. Just don't forget to pack your thermals...  Now discover which countries are most expensive to live in

Iceland pretty much ticks all the retirement security boxes, and has held on to its top-spot ranking for the third year running.

The country is ranked 12th for Health, with health expenditure especially strong. It's the world's highest-scorer for Material Wellbeing, while its scores for Quality of Life and Finances place it in the top 10 in both sub-indexes. Just don't forget to pack your thermals...


Info correct as of Jan 2022

Saturday, January 1, 2022

Struggles

 The Butterfly (Inspirational Short Stories)

A man found a cocoon of a butterfly.

One day a small opening appeared. He sat and watched the butterfly for several hours as it struggled to force its body through that little hole.

Until it suddenly stopped making any progress and looked like it was stuck.

So the man decided to help the butterfly. He took a pair of scissors and snipped off the remaining bit of the cocoon. The butterfly then emerged easily, although it had a swollen body and small, shriveled wings.

The man didn’t think anything of it and sat there waiting for the wings to enlarge to support the butterfly. But that didn’t happen. The butterfly spent the rest of its life unable to fly, crawling around with tiny wings and a swollen body.

Despite the kind heart of the man, he didn’t understand that the restricting cocoon and the struggle needed by the butterfly to get itself through the small opening; were God’s way of forcing fluid from the body of the butterfly into its wings. To prepare itself for flying once it was out of the cocoon.

 

Moral of the story:

Our struggles in life develop our strengths. Without struggles, we never grow and never get stronger, so it’s important for us to tackle challenges on our own, and not be relying on help from others.

Friday, December 31, 2021

Opportunity

 The Obstacle in Our Path (Inspirational Short Stories)

In ancient times, a King had a boulder placed on a roadway. He then hid himself and watched to see if anyone would move the boulder out of the way. Some of the king’s wealthiest merchants and courtiers came by and simply walked around it.

Many people loudly blamed the King for not keeping the roads clear, but none of them did anything about getting the stone out of the way.

A peasant then came along carrying a load of vegetables. Upon approaching the boulder, the peasant laid down his burden and tried to push the stone out of the road. After much pushing and straining, he finally succeeded.

After the peasant went back to pick up his vegetables, he noticed a purse lying in the road where the boulder had been.

The purse contained many gold coins and a note from the King explaining that the gold was for the person who removed the boulder from the roadway.

 

Moral of the story:

Every obstacle we come across in life gives us an opportunity to improve our circumstances, and whilst the lazy complain, the others are creating opportunities through their kind hearts, generosity, and willingness to get things done.

Thursday, December 9, 2021

A pound of butter

 A Pound of Butter (Inspirational Short Stories)

There was a farmer who sold a pound of butter to a baker. One day the baker decided to weigh the butter to see if he was getting the right amount, which he wasn’t. Angry about this, he took the farmer to court.

The judge asked the farmer if he was using any measure to weight the butter. The farmer replied, “Honor, I am primitive. I don’t have a proper measure, but I do have a scale.”

The judge asked, “Then how do you weigh the butter?”

The farmer replied;

 “Your honour, long before the baker started buying butter from me, I have been buying a pound loaf of bread from him. Every day when the baker brings the bread, I put it on the scale and give him the same weight in butter. If anyone is to be blamed, it is the baker.”

 

Moral of the story:

In life, you get what you give. Don’t try and cheat others.

Sunday, November 7, 2021

Think out of box

In a small Italian town, hundreds of years ago, a small business owner owed a large sum of money to a loan-shark. The loan-shark was a very old, unattractive looking guy that just so happened to fancy the business owner’s daughter.

He decided to offer the businessman a deal that would completely wipe out the debt he owed him. However, the catch was that we would only wipe out the debt if he could marry the businessman’s daughter.

Needless to say, this proposal was met with a look of disgust.

The loan-shark said that he would place two pebbles into a bag, one white and one black.

The daughter would then have to reach into the bag and pick out a pebble. If it was black, the debt would be wiped, but the loan-shark would then marry her. If it was white, the debt would also be wiped, but the daughter wouldn’t have to marry the loan-shark.

Standing on a pebble-strewn path in the businessman’s garden, the loan-shark bent over and picked up two pebbles.

Whilst he was picking them up, the daughter noticed that he’d picked up two black pebbles and placed them both into the bag.

He then asked the daughter to reach into the bag and pick one.

The daughter naturally had three choices as to what she could have done:

  1. Refuse to pick a pebble from the bag.
  2. Take both pebbles out of the bag and expose the loan-shark for cheating.
  3. Pick a pebble from the bag fully well knowing it was black and sacrifice herself for her father’s freedom.

She drew out a pebble from the bag, and before looking at it ‘accidentally’ dropped it into the midst of the other pebbles. She said to the loan-shark;

“Oh, how clumsy of me. Never mind, if you look into the bag for the one that is left, you will be able to tell which pebble I picked.”

 

The pebble left in the bag is obviously black, and seeing as the loan-shark didn’t want to be exposed, he had to play along as if the pebble the daughter dropped was white, and clear her father’s debt.

 

Moral of the story:

It’s always possible to overcome a tough situation throughout of the box thinking, and not give in to the only options you think you have to pick from.

Tuesday, October 5, 2021

Elephant Rope

 The Elephant Rope (Inspirational Short Stories)

A gentleman was walking through an elephant camp, and he spotted that the elephants weren’t being kept in cages or held by the use of chains.

All that was holding them back from escaping the camp, was a small piece of rope tied to one of their legs.

As the man gazed upon the elephants, he was completely confused as to why the elephants didn’t just use their strength to break the rope and escape the camp. They could easily have done so, but instead, they didn’t try to at all.

Curious and wanting to know the answer, he asked a trainer nearby why the elephants were just standing there and never tried to escape.

The trainer replied;

 

“when they are very young and much smaller we use the same size rope to tie them and, at that age, it’s enough to hold them. As they grow up, they are conditioned to believe they cannot break away. They believe the rope can still hold them, so they never try to break free.”

 

The only reason that the elephants weren’t breaking free and escaping from the camp was that over time they adopted the belief that it just wasn’t possible.

 

Moral of the story:

No matter how much the world tries to hold you back, always continue with the belief that what you want to achieve is possible. Believing you can become successful is the most important step in actually achieving it.

Thursday, September 2, 2021

Mouse and Jar

 A mouse was placed at the top of a jar filled with grains. It was so happy to find so much food around him that no longer he felt the need to run around searching for food.  Now he could happily live his life. After a few days of enjoying the grains, he reached the bottom of the jar.


Suddenly, he realize that he was trapped and he couldn't get out. He now has to fully depend on someone to put grains in the jar for him to survive.

He now has no choice but to eat what he's given. A slave to his situation. 


 A few lessons to learn from this:


1) Short term pleasures can lead to long-term traps.


2) If things come easy and you get comfortable, you are getting TRAPPED into dependency.


3) When you are not using your skills, you will lose more than your skills. You lose your CHOICES and FREEDOM.


4) Freedom does not come easy but can be lost quickly.  NOTHING comes easily in life and if it comes easily, maybe it is not worth it..


Don't curse your struggles, embrace them.  


They are your blessings in disguise. 






Wednesday, August 11, 2021

WHAT IS A METEOTSUNAMI?


 Meteotsunamis are similar to tsunamis but are not triggered by seismic activity on the ocean floor.

Instead, meteotsunamis are driven by air-pressure disturbances linked with fast-moving weather events, like severe thunderstorms.

The storm front generates the wave, which moves towards the coast, where it is amplified by a shallow continental shelf, inlet or bay.

Scientists are only just starting to understand meteotsunamis but waves of 6ft (1.8m) or more have already been observed.  

Meteotsunamis occur in a number of places around the world, including the Great Lakes, Gulf of Mexico, Atlantic Coast, Mediterranean and Adriatic Seas.

Identifying a meteotsunami presents a unique set of challenges to scientists, since the characteristics of these waves are so similar to other meteorological phenomenon, including tsunamis. 

It can also easily be confused with wind-driven storm surges or a seiche, which is a standing wave in an enclosed or partially enclosed body of water.

These uncertainties make it difficult to predict a meteotsunami and warn the public of a potential event.

Scientists are working to pinpoint the exact conditions which are most likely to generate a meteotsunami in an effort to improve advance warnings. 


Monday, August 2, 2021

Around Europe

Europe is known for its busy, culture-driven cities like Rome and Paris. But between all the landmarks and selfie-taking tourists, you'll find literally hundreds of charming little towns with populations smaller than the line for the Eiffel Tower. Whether it's a lakeside hamlet in Austria or an eerily beautiful village in Romania, these storybook towns are the stuff European vacations dream about. Hint: Get ready for a lot of bell towers and cobblestoned streets.


Ronda, Spain

Population: 33,978


One of the highlights of traveling around Andalusia is the seemingly endless supply of pueblos blancos ("white towns," named for the uniform color of the houses). While there are many that exhibit the Moorish architecture and labyrinthine streets that define the region, there's something extra special about Ronda—namely, its location. Set high in the mountains on the edge of a 400-foot cliff, the views of the valley below are stunning and the three bridges that span the canyon are mind-boggling feats of engineering.


Ribe, Denmark

Population: 8,168

Dating back more than 1,300 years, Ribe is the oldest town in Denmark—and, in fact, in all of Scandinavia. The city was established in the early eighth century, and while you can't find any structures that date back to that time still standing today, the picturesque cathedrals and half-timbered houses on cobblestoned streets are well-worth a visit.


Portree, Isle of Skye, Scotland

Population: 2,480

The Isle of Skye is known for its sublime natural beauty, but it also happens to house one of the U.K.'s most charming little towns. Situated on the edge of Loch Portree, the capital city has rows of pastel-colored homes and pubs, with a flotilla of bright fishing and lobster boats stirring peacefully at the harbor outside.


Giethoorn, Netherlands

Population: 2,620

Affectionately referred to as the "Venice of the Netherlands," this village has no roads—just bike lanes and canals. Explore Giethoorn's roof farmhouses and wooden arch bridges by boat, or by ice skating on the canals during the frozen winter months.


Hallstatt, Austria

Population: 779

There's something special about Hallstatt, made evident when you pull up by ferry across the glassy lake, with mist rolling down from the towering Dachstein mountains. Within the UNESCO World Heritage town are churches that date to the 12th century, a buzzing market square, and plenty of cozy, candlelit restaurants. Bonus: Hallstatt is only an hour’s drive from Salzburg and three from Vienna, making it a relatively easy day trip from Austria’s larger and more touristed cities.


Hvar, Croatia

Population: 3,771

One of the country’s most popular islands for sunbathers and oenophiles, Hvar is renowned for its sunny beaches, lavender fields, and lush vineyards. It also features a beautiful city center, complete with Gothic palaces and marble stone streets. (Bonus: Many of those streets are car-free.)


Rye, England

Population: 9,041

An important shipping center since Roman times, Rye in East Sussex was once entirely surrounded by sea. The best views of the hodge-podge of medieval terra cotta roofs and and timbered walls are from St. Mary's Parish Church tower or the Ypres Tower, the two oldest buildings in town. If you're visiting in late winter/early spring, don't miss the annual Bay Scallop Week (the next one will be from February 22 to March 1, 2020). Rye is a scenic, two-hour train journey from London St. Pancras International, making it an easy day trip.


Assos, Greece

Population: 88

The charming, bloom-filled village of Assos on Kefalonia is one of the most compelling reasons to visit the Greek Islands. The tiny hamlet sits at the bottom of a hill, surrounded by the strikingly blue Mediterranean Sea on three sides. Spend some time on the village's pebble beach before loading up on Greek food in one of the traditional restaurants lining the marina. Seriously, do vacations get any better than that?


Albarracín, Spain

Population: 1,016

Pink, orange, and red houses fill this isolated mountain town, set in a rocky valley on a bend of the Guadalaviar River in Spain's Aragon region. After it was all but destroyed in the Spanish Civil War, the government rebuilt houses and streets in medieval and Moorish styles, as seen in the bell towers' tiled roofs, iron bars in windows, and 12th-century Castle of Albarracín.


Kotor, Montenegro

Population: 13,510

At turns reminiscent of Norwegian fjords and Lake Como, the Bay of Kotor is lined with ancient, picturesque towns—including Kotor. Backed by steep limestone cliffs, Kotor's UNESCO-protected Old Town draws visitors for its scenic location, but also for its history. Getting lost here is not only encouraged, but expected: Centuries ago, Old Kotor was built like a maze to confuse invaders.


Ísafjörður, Iceland

Population: 2,571

Located in Iceland's unbelievably gorgeous Westfjords peninsula, the tiny town of Ísafjörður is nearly swallowed by the towering mountains surrounding it. (Does anyone else feel extremely underwhelmed by their tiny backyard right now?) With winter temperatures dipping down to the 20 degrees Fahrenheit and summer temperatures rarely reaching above the mid-50s, Ísafjörður is pretty much the opposite of your go-to Italian and Greek resort towns—and therein lies its appeal, especially if you prefer your vacations more rugged than ritzy.


Reine, Lofoten Islands

Population: 314

The beauty of the Lofoten Islands, just off of Norway's northwestern coast, is truly unparalleled: think majestic fjords, frozen beaches dotted with surfers, and colorful fishing villages. Reine on the island of Moskenesøya is one such village, located above the Arctic Circle, about 190 miles southwest of Tromsø. The town's yellow, stilted buildings surrounded by jagged mountains and icy waters is about as awesome as vistas get.


Tórshavn, Faroe Islands

Population: 13,083

Tucked between Iceland and Norway in the North Atlantic Ocean (and politically part of Denmark), the Faroe Islands have enough puffins and grass-roofed houses to keep travelers happy for days. The capital of Tórshavn is also the largest city on the archipelago, settled behind a busy harbor on the east coast of Streymoy Island. Within the 66.8-square-mile city are 18th-century churches, a handful of museums, a tiny Old Town, and rows of houses painted black and red.


Vernazza, Italy

Population: 852

Vernazza is the steepest and loveliest of the Cinque Terre villages, making it the ideal spot for a low-key romantic getaway. Its streets are lined with signature candy-colored houses and plenty of gelaterias; the town slopes down to a small, sandy beach and Cinque Terre's only natural harbor.


Kastraki, Greece

Population: 560

The idyllic, red-roofed town of Kastraki has one of the best backdrops imaginable: the famous Meteora monasteries, a UNESCO World Heritage Site surrounded by wildflower-filled countryside on mainland Greece. It's hard to imagine a more impressive "room with a view" than opening your blinds and seeing medieval buildings situated on pillars of rock stretching a thousand feet into the sky.


Cobh, Ireland

Population: 12,800

Cobh redefines charming with its rows of candy-colored homes along the water and towering cathedral standing sentry over the harbor. This town is particularly popular with cruise-lovers—about 60 ships stop there every year. In fact, Cobh was the final port of call for the RMS Titanic, and a commemorative museum stands in the city today.


Bled, Slovenia

Population: 8,171

There's a reason Lake Bled is one of Slovenia's most popular sites. With its emerald waters, church-dotted islet, views of the Julien Alps, and 12th-century castle on a hill, you won't be short of picture-perfect views. The surrounding town of Bled is just as charming, with candlelit restaurants and traditional wooden rowboats just waiting for visitors.


Angra do Heroísmo, Azores, Portugal

Population: 35,402

Further proof that the Azores is one of the most beautiful places on the planet: Angra do Heroísmo, one of the archipelago's three capital cities. Aside from the green hills and blue ocean surrounding the town, Angra do Heroísmo stands out for its lovely town square and 18th-century churches and forts.


Sighișoara, Romania

Population: 26,370

If you like your Eastern European towns to come with a fear factor, then the Transylvanian city of Sighișoara is for you. The historic town is the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the vicious Prince of Wallachia who inspired Bram Stoker's Dracula. For the best thrills, you can tour his childhood home (which includes a tiny torture museum) or brave Holy Trinity Church's eerie and creaky stairwell after dark. Not a fan of the macabre? Sighișoara's UNESCO-protected historic center and streets lined with colorful houses provide a nice fairytale vibe—minus the bad guys.


Dinant, Belgium

Population: 13,544

Nestled snugly in a cliff face on the Meuse River in Belgium’s Wallonia region, the tiny town of Dinant looks like the setting of a Disney movie—complete with skyline-defining Gothic cathedral and 16th-century castle (hedge maze included). Fun fact: Dinant also happens to be the birthplace of Adolphe Sax, inventor of the—you guessed it—saxophone.


Castelluccio, Italy

Population: <150

Located atop a steep hill 5,000 feet above sea level, Castellucio is the highest village in the Appenine Mountain Range—and arguably the most beautiful. On one side, the village is backed by snow-capped mountains, and on the other, lush, fertile plains that blossom with red poppies, violets, and rapeseed in the spring (time your visit to the “Flowering,” from late May to early June). Sadly, a 2016 earthquake rendered the village virtually uninhabitable, but some remaining residents have re-opened shops and restaurants that are currently open to visitors.


Interlaken, Switzerland

Population: 5,319

Known for its stunning lakes and old timber houses, the Swiss town of Interlaken also happens to be a mecca for adventure travelers. Aside from sledging and kayaking, the town has one of the world's most epic skydiving experiences: a 20-minute flight over the mountains, then a 45-second free fall drop before your instructor deploys the parachute. We can't think of a more thrilling way to view the Swiss Alps.



Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

Population: 10,930

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, known for its preserved medieval Old Town, draws millions of tourists each year with its made-for-Instagram multicolored facades. If you can swing it, plan your visit for December, when the town transforms into a winter wonderland with snow-dusted rooftops, glowing storefronts, and cozy taverns. And don't forget about the Reiterlesmarkt, one of the best Christmas markets in the entire country.


Flåm, Norway

Population: 350

Undoubtedly one of Europe's most beautiful cruise ports, the tiny village of Flåm welcomes ships passing through western Norway's vast Sognefjord. The town is scattered with boldly colored houses and surrounded by unblemished green hills, but it's perhaps best known for housing Flamsbana—the world's steepest railway. Hop on the train in Flåm, which will take you past waterfalls and snow-capped peaks to the summit of Myrdal Mountain.



Kaysersberg, France

Population: 4,677

France has no shortage of beautiful small towns and villages to choose from, but we're big fans of Kayersberg in Alsace—and the French people tend to agree. In 2017, the tiny, cobblestoned village was voted the country's favorite village in Village préféré des Français, a TV program that polls citizens every year to crown a winner. Kayersberg continues to win over locals and travelers alike with its friendly locals, walkable streets, and diverse architecture, like the 14th-century Oberhof Chapel and historic Château de Kaysersberg.



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Wishing you safe travel

 

Thursday, July 29, 2021

Detox Soup

Detox Soup

 Ingredients 

(Serves -8)

One tablespoon of olive oil

One leek, thinly sliced

One onion, finely chopped

Two cups vegetable stock and three cups water

420g can chopped tomatoes

One carrot, peeled and cut into cubes

500g pumpkin, cut into cubes 

Half a celery, chopped

One broccoli head, steamed

METHOD

1. Heat the olive oil with onion in a large saucepan. 

2. Add the leek and gently cook over a low heat until soft, then add the stock, tomatoes, carrot and pumpkin.

3. Bring to the boil, reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes.

4. Top with steamed broccoli and add shaved Parmesan to serve.


Thursday, July 15, 2021

How to eat better at home & Work from Home

 Whether you struggle with overeating or resisting the urge for sugary snacks, temptation is always around the corner. So, why not set yourself a tough but rewarding resolution this July. I have put together some tips on how to keep a better-balanced diet at home, to help really give a boost to your health this month.

1. Don’t work in or near the kitchen

Try to arrange your workspace away from the kitchen, or at least out of sight of the fridge. This will help to avoid temptation and the constant desire to visit the snack cupboard. Try to stick to your scheduled meal times and only go to the kitchen or fridge at these times.

2. Plan your snack and mealtime

Plan your meals the same way you would plan the rest of your day - wake-up, workout, work and sleep. When working from an office we wouldn't be eating all day - so have a plan whilst working from home. Set a time where you will have breakfast, lunch, dinner & snacks, to help reduce over-eating.

3. Prepare your lunches

Being at home, it can feel liberating to have the freedom of eating what we want, not to mention not queuing for the microwave at work. For some people, this freedom can be too much especially when it comes to weekday lunches, and we can be tempted into some unhealthy food choices. Try to prepare your meals the night before - even if you stick to basics such as salad, pre-cut vegetables, grilled chicken or fish and nuts. Alternatively, why not try a veggie omelette, but pre-cut the vegetables beforehand so it is quick to prepare at lunchtime.

4. Drink plenty of water

Dehydration can commonly lead to over-eating, fatigue and a lack of ability to focus. All the vital components you need to be able to work well. Keep a large water container near you on your desk and take regular sips throughout the day. Try to aim for at least 2-3 litres every day.

5. Focus on real foods

Nutritional, balanced food will give you more energy, lift your mood and keep you focussed for longer. Avoid processed foods and try to stick to whole grain carbohydrates, protein, fibre, healthy fats, fruit and vegetables. Although obvious, avoid snacking on chocolates and other junk foods. Buy fresh and keep your macro's in mind. Depending on your goal, we would recommend your daily food consumption to comprise of the following macros; 40-60% carbohydrates, 20-35% protein and 20-35% healthy fats.

6. Don't buy junk food

The best way to stop the urge to go to the snack cupboard is to prevent yourself from buying it in the first place. If it is not in your kitchen, you won’t eat it! Take special care with foods which you know trigger binges for you. Out of sight, out of mind is the golden rule!

7. When you eat, just eat

The temptation to sit by your desk and eat your lunch can be high, but we recommend avoiding this if you can. Take a seat at your table and take a few minutes and have a break - this will lead to better satisfaction of your meal and reduce the want to overeat. It will also give you a well-earned break to re-gain focus for the rest of your day.