oleh admin | Apr 1, 2025 | hotels, tourist attractions, Travel, travel destinations, vacations
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Chris Mooney checks in to the adult-only TUI Blue Seno hotel in Turkey
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EXPLORE FURTHER: Understanding the secret messages embedded in check-in passcodes
Carved into the rockface of the Turquoise Coast in Turkey, the perfectly manicured hotel grounds careen from the top of a secluded cliff to the golden sands below.
At the end of a winding path that curves softly to both sides, a tranquil beach comes into view, nestled securely inside its own secluded bay. A mild wind from the Aegean Sea rustles through as visitors bask in the ideal climate here (approximately 20-25°C during April/May; even warmer during summertime).
This is the adult-only
T
UI Blue Seno hotel, near the town of Sarigerme on Turkey’s southwest coast, a slice of perfection in an area of breathtaking natural beauty.
The approach into the nearby Dalaman Airport – just a 20-minute bus trip away from the small town of Sarigerme – offers a breathtaking dive into an area rich with vegetation and mountains that remains mostly unaltered by contemporary development.
The TUI Blue Seno, too, is a perfect example of conformity to its surroundings. It manages to blend the ancient with the contemporary seamlessly, with its 34 two-storey accommodation buildings, numerous swimming pools and glamorous dining facilities only just discernible in an explosion of colourful blooms and woodland.
During our initial visit to an all-inclusive resort, the Seno went above and beyond to convince us that we had been missing out significantly throughout all those years of managing everything ourselves.
Displaying a masterclass in customer service, exceptional levels of cleanliness and a varied choice of food and drink, it felt like a steal for the price.
Whether you want to just sit and relax on the beach or at any one of the resort’s four pools, or five bars for that matter, or find something more adventurous, Seno has it. The resort also features a spa and a gym.
A range of aquatic activities can be enjoyed here, such as canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, and waterskiing, alongside boat tours to discover the series of coves, bays, and shores scattered along the beautiful Dalaman coastline.
If you are more comfortable on dry land, the hotel has a dedicated entertainment team providing games throughout the day – the regular afternoon volleyball match was a must watch – as well as those which require a little less physical enthusiasm, like seated darts. There are even cooking classes for those not content with being waited on hand and foot.
Maybe you’d rather take a trip to the Blue Lagoon in neighboring Olu Deniz, where a beautiful sandy spit extends into the sapphire waters of the Mediterranean, surrounded by eateries, pubs, and opportunities for even more aquatic activities.
If you’re historically inclined, consider taking a day trip to the archaeological site of Kaunos, which boasts ancient baths and an amphitheater, located approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes away.
Ephesus, formerly the second-largest metropolis of the Roman Empire and regarded as Europe’s most intact ancient city, offers substantial rewards; however, it requires a more extensive trip north along the coastline toward Kuşadası.
For us? This meant a week off from work and an opportunity to rejuvenate. Whether at the beach, the bar, the restaurant, or back in our room, we wandered about freely.
The accommodation, part of the 314 available at the location, was cozy and spotless, situated high up on the cliff face offering breathtaking vistas over the bay.
Regarding the food, those loose-fitting clothes weren’t as spacious when returning home.
The primary buffet restaurant provided an array of delights limited only by imagination: freshly caught seafood, aromatic curries, crisp salads, artisanal pizzas, and even roasted specialties—all prepared just for you upon request.
Even though we were told that nearly all the rooms were reserved, it didn’t feel crowded at all, and the service remained outstanding.
On the shore, plenty of complimentary beds were available, and the Beach Snack restaurant once more provided an extensive selection of pasta, fish, and meat dishes all day long, prepared fresh upon request.
Do not let the sharp incline deter you; a team member was available to transport both us and our baggage between the room and reception using a golf cart.
Additionally, there is a frequent minibus service that operates in a circular route from the top of the resort to the bottom, approximately every 10 minutes, allowing you to disembark at your desired location.
Even the gardeners halted their carts to provide rides if they noticed a guest having difficulty.
The cliffside path is quite steep. Walking down to the main restaurant posed no problem, but ascending back up after enjoying a fulfilling dinner and several glasses of wine proved to be an entirely different challenge.
We were never left without options for getting back to our place of stay.
Additionally, guests could enjoy à la carte meals at the Culinarium restaurant and the Grill House, though reservations were required for both. The panoramic vistas from the Culinarium’s terrace stood out as exceptionally beautiful.
Additionally, the Starlight bar adjacent offers entertainment, and we had a fantastic time when we visited as the group of three singers had filled up the (outdoor) venue.
However, if you’re planning a getaway similar to ours, aimed at escaping the urban chaos and filth for a bit of calm rest, evenings typically wind down early – midnight marks the end of lively activities – and peace is readily available.
It’s obvious really; we’re already making reservations for next year.
TRAVEL FACTS
TUI provides a 7-day beach vacation for two adults at the 4-star resort.
TUI BLUE Seno
In Sarigerme, Turkey, starting at £1,116 per person for departures on June 1, 2025, from London Stansted Airport.
This comprises flights along with accommodation in a double room featuring a balcony, transportation services, and up to 20kg of baggage allowance.
Prices are accurate as of 01/04/2025.
Read more
oleh admin | Apr 1, 2025 | biometrics, digital authentication, facial recognition, identity verification, technology
New Delhi [India], April 1 (ANI): The AI and ML-based Aadhaar facial authentication solutions, created internally by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), have been developed.
UIDAI
It has experienced significant expansion, as more than 78 percent of all transactions occurred through this platform during the fiscal year ending March 31, 2025, according to an announcement made by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology on Tuesday.
Since the
face authentication
The solution was launched in October 2022.
UIDAI
Has logged a total transaction count exceeding 130.5 crore, with nearly 102 crores transacted within the fiscal year 2024-25. This reflects the increasing utilization and acceptance of this service, smoothly enhancing benefits for Aadhaar number holders.
Over the last three months (January-March), approximately 39.5 crores were involved.
face authentication
Transactions have been logged. Specifically, in March, facial authentication solutions documented over 15.25 crores of transactions, marking a 21.6 percent increase from the prior month.
This accomplishment highlights the confidence and widespread use of this novel biometric verification method across various industries such as financial technology, banking, and telecoms.
Many governmental services provided by central and state authorities utilize this system for efficiently delivering benefits to specific recipients. Numerous key initiatives such as PM Avas (Urban), PM E-Hrushti, PM-JAY, PM-Ujjwala, PM-Kisan, and PM Internship Program rely on Aadhaar for their operations.
face authentication
.
Facial recognition is also serving as a reliable substitute and assisting elderly individuals and anyone facing difficulties with fingerprint quality because of various factors such as physical labor or health problems.
Currently, 102 organizations from both governmental and private sectors are utilizing Aadhaar.
face authentication
This AI-driven feature functions across both Android and iOS platforms. It safeguards against video replay attacks and static image verification efforts from malicious individuals. Additionally, it operates without physical contact and can be accessed at any time and location, according to the announcement.
This authentication modality enables users to verify their identity with just a face scan, ensuring convenience while upholding stringent security standards, the release added. (ANI)
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.
Syndigate.info
).
oleh admin | Apr 1, 2025 | agriculture, biotech & biomedical, biotechnology, technology, technology trends
During the latter part of the 20th century, genetic material from various organisms was inserted into seeds, resulting in what we now call Genetically Modified Organisms, or GMOs. This technological approach aims at cultivating plants that are more robust and capable of higher yields.
Roughly twenty years ago, the European Union established stringent regulations governing authorization, labeling, and risk evaluation. However, recently it has suggested loosening these controls regarding New Genomic Techniques, which alter the genetic makeup of plants themselves.
“The European Commission has opted to establish two classifications: one for items derived from these advanced methods and another for those produced using traditional approaches, which will adhere to current regulations. Nevertheless, certain individuals believe that these novel forms of genetically modified organisms may pose similar hazards as their predecessors, potentially leading to unforeseen consequences for the ecosystem,” says Robert Hodgson, reporting on this topic for Euronews.
The dispute is expected to heat up once more since the governments from the 27 member countries have come to an accord regarding the proposition this month. Now, these ministers must achieve a unified stance alongside the European Parliament, despite differing viewpoints on contentious topics like patents and labeling.
During a brief visit to multiple cities, Euronews gathered some European viewpoints. “I am not entirely opposed to it. Conducting comprehensive studies to assess whether it has any adverse effects would be crucial,” remarked a person from Berlin.
“Over the past few decades, significant progress has been made in this technology, yet we still lack complete mastery over it,” stated another individual from Warsaw (Poland).
“It is essential for them to be labeled so that consumers can make an informed decision. Personally, I would not purchase them,” stated a pedestrian in Lyon (France).
Experts in biotechnology contend that these plant varieties will exhibit greater resilience against drought, pests, and necessitate reduced use of fertilizers. They are also addressing health concerns like allergies by developing low-gluten grain options, for instance.
Critics highlight the dangers: interference with pollinators, potential pollution of organic crops, limited seed availability for small-scale farmers, and unknown impacts on human well-being.
Could patents result in the exclusion of small farmers?
The European Council was split regarding the approval of patents, with discussions centered around potential limitations these might impose on farmers’ options and the possibility of forming monopolies. It required nearly a year before they reached an agreement to permit patents, provided that certain specified reporting conditions were fulfilled.
One of the shadow rapporteurs overseeing the legislation stated that the European Parliament’s stance is to entirely prohibit patents.
“If several major global agricultural chemical companies monopolize seed production, farmers will face higher costs, lose their ability to make choices, and worst of all, genuine innovation in crop varieties will come to an end,” stated Christophe Clergeau, a French centre-left MEP.
Only a few member states have demonstrated significant interest in GM crops, with Spain being an outlier. Many nations have gone so far as to ban these technologies outright, allowing governments to exercise their choice to opt out. However, this might not remain possible for every category of such products.
Approximately ten years back, this matter turned into a significant political concern, particularly with considerable public resistance across Europe. The governments called for an exemption and received one,” clarifies Hodgson, further stating: “Since the plants in this new classification will essentially mirror typical naturally occurring plants, authorities won’t have the choice to prohibit their growth anymore.
Politician Clergeau emphasizes that they are just starting with this innovative technology, asserting that the EU needs to proceed cautiously since “intervening in nature can lead to chains of alterations which might threaten biodiversity.”
A whole new realm of opportunities is quickly emerging in the field of food production, as scientists are now investigating the application of generative artificial intelligence to this sector. As expected, this development has sparked some debate!
Watch the video here!
Journalist: Isabel Marques da Silva
Content creation: Pilar Montero López
Video production: Zacharia Vigneron
Graphism: Loredana Dumitru
Editorial coordination: Ana Lázaro Bosch and Jeremy Fleming-Jones
oleh admin | Apr 1, 2025 | air travel, airline industry, flights, flying, Travel
From the cabin temperature to disruptive passengers sitting nearby, various factors can cause anxiety among nervous fliers, according to a recent survey.
Larger seating, meditation applications, and calming music are alternative features that could assist in easing travelers’ anxieties.
Selecting the appropriate airline can significantly impact your experience. By examining safety records and onboard amenities, a luggage storage company
Bounce
has listed the top airlines suitable for passengers who experience anxiety during flights.
Three of the top 10 spots were held by European airlines.
What causes discomfort for passengers during flights?
Bounce polled more than 2,000 travelers to identify which elements of air travel have the biggest effect on passengers during their trips.
More than 50% of travelers mention loudchildren as an issue.
turbulence
Make their flight experience unpleasant. This figure is more than twice as high as the number of individuals who find crowded airplane restrooms distressing.
Randomly assigned seats make nearly one in every three individuals uneasy. Women are more prone to feeling discomfort about this arrangement, with over 31 percent expressing unease, as opposed to fewer than a quarter of men.
While serving too much
alcohol
Only approximately one in five individuals find this issue troubling. Concerns over heavy alcohol serving increase more than twofold as people get older. About one in every six persons within the 18-24 age group feels uncomfortable because of this, whereas nearly a third of those aged 65 and above share these worries.
The top airlines globally for anxious flyers
Based on the survey findings, Bounce identified the aspects within an airline’s control that contribute to enhancing passenger comfort.
The firm evaluated leading airlines based on various criteria such as Skytrax rating for assessing the performance of flight attendants, data related to seating arrangements, and the level of assistance provided to travelers.
Singapore Airlines tops the list with flawless reviews.
safety
One notable aspect is its economy class seat width of 47 cm, the broadest among the top 10, providing greater space for comfort during lengthy trips.
Although Singapore Airlines does not have a specific nervous flier support program, it still offers various amenities.
in-flight
Meditation Playlists: Our selections feature specially crafted Spotify playlists with natural soundscapes along with calming instrumental collections known for their gentle beats.
In the second position, Korean Air offers one of the most spacious economy class seats with a pitch of 82.5 cm. Additionally, it shares top honors with Singapore Airlines for safety, achieving a flawless 7/7 score, along with receiving a commendable 5/5 rating from airlines reviews.
Rounding out the top three is Cathay Pacific, headquartered at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG).
Similar to the leading airlines, this carrier does not have a specific program for anxious fliers, but it provides calming playlists on board to assist with stress relief.
Nevertheless, this airline stands out among the top three as the sole one with an official collaboration with the mental health application called Headspace. This alliance enables them to offer meditation services aimed at alleviating anxiety for their passengers.
passengers
while in the sky.
The top European air carriers suitable for anxious fliers
The London Luton Airport-headquartered easyJet secured the sixth spot in the ranking. The airline’s seat width is only slightly narrower than that of the top-ranked carrier, Singapore Airlines, which has a width of 45 cm.
EasyJet stands out with its support program for anxious fliers. The Fearless Flyer course can be taken online and is conducted by both a specialist in phobias and an experienced easyJet captain.
British Airways ranks ninth. Despite having a review score of just 3 out of 5, it boasts a flawless safety record.
The
airline
Additionally, it provides a support program. The Flying with Confidence courses, conducted at various locations globally, are led by British Airways pilots and cabin crew members, assisted by a clinical psychologist.
SWISS concludes the list at number 10. The airline boasts spacious seats in economy class and holds a rating of 4 out of 5. Although SWISS lacks a specific program for anxious fliers, passengers can utilize the meditation and sleep app called Headspace.
In what ways can airlines enhance passengers’ comfort levels?
Alongside these features,
airlines
can take steps to make passengers feel more comfortable in the air, the report found.
According to the survey, most travelers do not concern themselves with physical facilities such as noise-canceling headphones or pillows and blankets.
Rather, amiable cabin crew are at the top of passengers’ preference list for comfort, with seat choice coming in as a close second.
Availability of Wi-Fi and in-seat power outlets are highly appreciated, particularly among younger travelers.
oleh admin | Apr 1, 2025 | business, commerce, news, oil, petroleum
Accra, April 1 – Christian Li has been named as the new Managing Director at Vivo Energy Ghana, which handles Shell-branded fuel and lubricant products.
Following the departure of ex-Managing Director, Jean-Michel Arlandis, this has occurred.
Christian, who hails from Mauritius, boasts close to three decades of expertise in general management, business expansion, and sales and marketing across over 20 African nations.
Starting from 2022, he has taken up the position of Head of International Business at Engen. In this role, he oversees and supports Engen’s activities outside South Africa, which encompass operations in various countries such as DRC, Namibia, Botswana, Mauritius, Lesotho, and Eswatini.
Before this, he spent four years as the Managing Director of Engen Namibia, during which he was consistently ranked among the top 10 executives for three consecutive years.
Christian has also previously taken on various leadership positions in South Africa, Mauritius, and the Republic of Congo.
He was associated with Chevron for approximately eight years prior to moving to Engen Mauritius in 2011.
When announcing his appointment, Franck Konan-Yahaut, the Executive Vice President for West and Central Africa at Vivo Energy, showed faith in Christian, stating: “With his extensive expertise, dedication to achieving outstanding results, and drive for ongoing enhancement, Christian will be a highly valuable asset to our team.”
Thankful for his nomination, Christian committed to collaborating with the team and various stakeholders such as industry leaders to foster innovation and achieve excellence within the downstream sector.
“Given my experience spanning several industries, I’m confident that we can raise our already strong business to unparalleled levels,” states Christian.
GNA
GRB
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).
