Seymour Cresswell from Bray says he started planning for retirement before he ever started working. Now, after years of penning hilarious pantomimes, he has published his first novel in his 70s, with a deal on the table for two more, writes reporter Tom Galvin
Seymour Cresswell with his new book, Nice Weather for a Killing, in Bray.Tom Galvin©
Pakistan’s Karachi, one of the largest urban destinations in the country, has been ranked as the second riskiest city in the world for tourists, as per a latest report published by Forbes Adviser. The Pakistani city ranked behind Venezuela’s Caracas. Myanmar’s Yangon ranked third in the list. To uncover the most and least risky cities for tourists, Forbes Adviser said it compared 60 international cities across seven key metrics, reported Dawn News. In a report published in 2017 by the Economist Intelligence, Karachi ranked among the least safe cities in the world. Singapore city topped the list of safest cities for tourists followed by Tokyo and Toronto.
July 26th 2024.
Guy Ritchie’s new star-studded film “The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare” features a special tribute to Sir Sean Connery’s James Bond, thanks to its intriguing connection to the iconic 007 franchise. Although it may not be immediately noticeable, the nod to Britain’s greatest fictional spy is a subtle yet satisfying one, and we’ll give you the inside scoop. Based on recently declassified files from the British War Department during World War Two, the film tells the story of the first-ever special forces organization formed under the order of Prime Minister Winston Churchill. After its release in the US back in April, British audiences have eagerly awaited the chance to experience this uniquely British tale, and now the wait is finally over with the film’s release on Prime Video on July 25th. The Special Operations Executive, or SOE, was a top-secret combat unit that carried out espionage, sabotage, and reconnaissance in German-occupied Europe to aid the resistance. Among the military individuals involved was Ian Fleming, the creator and author of James Bond, who worked for Britain’s Naval Intelligence Division. In “The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare,” Fleming is portrayed by Freddie Fox. The film also features other real-life figures from the SOE, including Gus March-Phillipps, Geoffrey Appleyard, Henry Hayes, and Alan Ritchson as Anders Lassen. But it’s Ritchson, known for his role in the “Reacher” series, who plays a Danish officer and Victoria Cross recipient named Lassen. And it’s thanks to him that the film incorporates a special 007 reference in honor of Fleming. The movie’s military consultant, Paul Biddiss, worked closely with director Guy Ritchie, producer and second unit director Max Keene, and the cast to ensure they convincingly portrayed their roles and the film’s story. Biddiss, who has also worked with acclaimed filmmakers like Sir Ridley Scott and Sir Sam Mendes, used his research and expertise to suggest the right weapons and devices for the film, including some that tie in with Fleming’s work. Fleming had wanted to write about the SOE missions, but he was not allowed. So, he found a way around it by incorporating them into his James Bond novels. As Biddiss shares, “Some of the gadgets you see in some of the early James Bonds were gadgets that were used by the SOE.” To make the film even more authentic, Biddiss suggested using weapons and devices that were historically accurate for the time period, like the Sten guns, Sterling submachine guns, and suppressors that were being developed. But not everything in the film is 100% historically accurate, and that’s where creative interpretation comes in. Biddiss, who served in the British Army for 24 years, understands the balance between staying true to history and making an entertaining movie. He previously worked with Ritchie on “Wrath of Man” and “The Gentlemen,” and he appreciates the director’s style and vision. For “The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare,” Biddiss initially thought the film would be a serious take on the story, but as they dove deeper into the project, he realized it was more of a tongue-in-cheek caper – a classic Guy Ritchie film featuring “soldier gangsters.” He enjoyed the opportunity to work on the film, even though it may not be completely historically accurate. As he says, “We are making movies, we’re not making documentaries. Sometimes there’s going to be some artistic license.” And while there may be purists who are unhappy with the film’s creative liberties, Biddiss has not received any backlash for his work on “The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare.” He hopes that audiences will appreciate the film’s blend of history and entertainment and enjoy the special tribute to James Bond and Ian Fleming. “The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare” is now available to stream exclusively on Prime Video.
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In her latest book, Minister of Economic Security Sanae Takaichi explores Japan’s strategies for safeguarding critical information amid rising global threats. The work is titled Japan’s Economic Security: Protecting the Nation and Its People (Nihon no keizai anzen hoshō kokka kokumin o mamoru ōgonritsu, Asukashinsha, 2024). However, currently it is available only in Japanese.
Central to the book is Japan’s newly established security clearance system, introduced in June 2024. It enforces rigorous vetting for accessing classified national and economic data. Modeled on practices from G7 countries and Australia, the system includes thorough background checks as well as assessments to prevent information leaks.
In her book, Takaichi also highlights Japan’s initiatives in managing space debris and advancing fusion energy technology. She details Japan’s leadership in incorporating space debris management into the G7 agenda. In line with the aim of boosting Japan’s energy self-sufficiency, she further outlines the Fusion Energy Innovation strategy.
LDP Policy Research Council Chair Sanae Takaichi responding to an interview with a TV station at the LDP headquarters in Nagatacho, Tokyo, July 10 (©Sankei by Yasuhiro Yajima).
Additionally, Takaichi addresses Japan’s cybersecurity challenges and advocates for active cyber defense to counter escalating threats.
New Security Clearances
Of immediate relevance, Takaichi’s book provides a detailed analysis of Japan’s newly established security clearance system. Enacted in June 2024, it introduces a formal process to vet individuals who access classified information related to national and economic security.
Based on the approach in systems of other G7 countries and Australia, information deemed critical is categorized, and only those who pass the appropriateness assessment are authorized to handle it. Additionally, these individuals, known as clearance holders, face penalties for leaking information.
The new system evolved from former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s focus on economic security. It furthermore builds on the framework of the Abe administration’s Act on the Protection of Specially Designated Secrets. This previous law safeguarded information on defense, diplomacy, and terrorism. Once in place, partners could swiftly share sensitive intelligence with Japan, such as details on North Korean missiles.
Takaichi emphasizes that the new system is also designed to address emerging technology and economic security challenges. Those include cyber threats and dual-use technologies.
Clearing Up Misconceptions
Despite its importance, the law has faced domestic criticism. Some object to the nature of individual background investigations, such as checks on family background, criminal records, substance abuse, mental health, and financial conditions. Critics say they are concerned about privacy. They also emphasize their concerns about sharing financial and mental health evaluations. However, the law ensures that investigations are conducted with the individual’s consent and in compliance with global standards.
Minister Sanae Takaichi argues for implementing revisions to the Act on the Promotion of Economic Security on October 24, 2022, in a Lower House committee. (© Sankei by Yasuhiro Yajima)
On the other hand, without a security clearance system, partners were reluctant to share a wide variety of sensitive information. “One significant benefit [of the system] is the ease of participating in international joint research,” Takaichi writes. “Dual-use technologies in fields like space, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), and quantum technology are on the rise. Having Japanese private companies involved in international joint research becomes easier if they have security clearance.”
Overall, the security clearance system aims to protect crucial information by ensuring only vetted individuals can access it. In turn, that enhances Japan’s ability to respond effectively to security threats.
Strategic Energy and Space Initiatives
One of the highlights of the book is a discussion of Japan’s efforts in managing space debris. During Tokyo’s G7 chairmanship in 2023, Takaichi successfully advocated for space debris management to be included in the agenda. “Initially, there was resistance from France and Canada, but we successfully garnered their support,” she mentioned recently. As she explains in the book, this was crucial as debris generated by satellite destruction and experiments from countries like China and Russia poses significant risks to operational satellites traveling at speeds up to 28,000 km/h.
Japan’s new Fusion Energy Innovation strategy, established in April, is also addressed in the book. With energy self-sufficiency at just 12.8%, the strategy focuses on developing nuclear fusion. This process uses deuterium and tritium from seawater and produces minimal radioactive waste. Takaichi emphasizes that successful fusion technology could “eliminate reliance on resource-rich countries and ensure a stable energy supply.”
Technologies like tokamak and laser-based systems are also explored in the book, reflecting Japan’s long-term energy plans. As Takaichi writes, the G7’s inclusion of fusion energy in its discussions underscores its global significance. Furthermore, it highlights Japan’s proactive role in promoting future energy solutions.
Strengthening Japan’s Cyber Defense
Japan experiences a cyber attack every 14 seconds, according to reports. This is a sharp increase from attacks every 8.3 minutes a decade ago. Takaichi’s book highlights this escalating cybersecurity challenge and the response measures being developed. Even hospitals in Japan have been targeted, leading to significant data losses. Similar incidents have occurred globally, including in the United States.
Takaichi emphasizes in her book and in public speaking events how cybersecurity requires a coordinated national effort. One example is a cyber attack on the Statistics Bureau that occurred when she was Minister for Internal Affairs. Although no information was leaked, the incident underscores the need for robust security measures and prompt responses to threats.
She also discusses the US approach to cybersecurity. As she notes in the book, it emphasizes proactive measures and the involvement of white hat researchers in uncovering vulnerabilities. This proactive stance includes addressing potential threats to medical devices and other critical systems.
Minister in Charge of Economic Security of Japan Sanae Takaichi (third from left), speaks at an expert panel meeting on the establishment of the security clearance system on December 20 in Tokyo. (©Kyodo)
In contrast, Japan’s sense of urgency around cybersecurity has been criticized as insufficient. Takaichi responds by advocating for active cyber defense that preemptively neutralizing threats and responding to ongoing attacks. As the book explains, implementing this strategy requires amending several laws, including those governing telecommunications, unauthorized access, and malware use.
The national security strategy approved in December includes provisions for such measures. However, legislative changes are necessary for full implementation. Takaichi emphasizes the importance of expediting these legal arrangements to strengthen Japan’s cybersecurity posture.
The Future of Japanese Security
In her new book, Minister Takaichi establishes an expectation for significant changes in Japan’s security landscape. These will come in part from the increasing focus on economic security. She explains that, historically, integrating civilian technology with military applications has been challenging. However, since August 2023, Japan has been actively adopting economic security measures across various ministries.
She also highlights how technologies once used for civilian purposes are now being repurposed for military applications. For instance, information from satellites analyzed with AI can now be used to assess strategic areas, reduce special combat attacks, and detect suspicious activities, she notes in the book.
Integrating these civilian-developed technologies with the Ministry of Defense has become more streamlined. As economic security measures advance, Japan’s overall defense capabilities will become stronger and more resilient, Takaichi writes. This shift reflects Japan’s evolving approach to enhancing its national security through advanced technology.
About the Book
Note: the book is currently available only in Japanese.
Title: Japan’s Economic Security: Protecting the Nation and Its People (“Nihon no keizai anzen hoshō kokka kokumin o mamoru ōgonritsu”)
Publisher: Asukashinsha
Language: Japanese
Publication date: July 8, 2024
To read the book or for more information: 日本の経済安全保障 国家国民を守る黄金律
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Author: Daniel Manning
Are you dreaming of embarki
ng on a new adventure without breaking the bank? Look no further! In this article, we will unveil five budget travel hacks that will help you save money while exploring new destinations. With these insider tips, you can experience the thrill of travel without compromising on the quality of your adventure. So, get ready to embark on a wallet-friendly journey and discover the secrets to cheap travel!
Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or missing out on amazing experiences. It’s all about planning smart and making informed decisions. From finding affordable flights and accommodations to exploring local transport options and embracing budget-friendly eating habits, we’ve got you covered.
So, why spend a fortune when you can save big on your next trip? Let’s dive in and uncover the ultimate budget travel hacks that will open doors to incredible adventures and unforgettable memories without emptying your wallet. Get ready to embrace the world of cheap travel, budget travel hacks, and saving big!
How to Find Cheap Flights and Accommodation
When it comes to planning your next trip, finding affordable flights and accommodation can make a huge difference in your travel budget. With a little bit of research and some smart strategies, you can save big on these two major expenses. Here are some tips to help you find cheap flights and accommodation:
Use Flight Comparison Websites
Flight comparison websites are a great tool to compare prices from different airlines and find the best deals. Websites like Expedia, Kayak, and Skyscanner allow you to search for flights based on your destination and travel dates. They also offer features such as price alerts and flexible date searches, which can help you find the cheapest flights available.
Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates
If your travel dates are flexible, you can take advantage of the price variations throughout the year. Flying on weekdays or during off-peak seasons can often result in significant savings. Consider using the “flexible dates” option on flight booking websites to compare prices and find the cheapest days to fly.
Book in Advance
Booking your flights several months in advance can often lead to lower prices. Airlines tend to increase prices as the departure date gets closer, so it’s best to secure your tickets early. Keep an eye out for flash sales or special promotions that airlines may offer, as these can provide excellent opportunities for cheap flights.
Explore Alternative Airports
Consider flying into or out of alternative airports near your destination. Sometimes, smaller airports or those located in neighboring cities offer cheaper flights. You can save money by taking a short train or bus ride to your final destination. Make sure to check transportation options and costs before booking your flight.
Look for Cheap Accommodation Options
When it comes to finding cheap accommodation, there are several strategies you can employ:
Book in advance: Many hotels and hostels offer early bird discounts for booking ahead of time. Take advantage of this and secure your accommodation at a lower price.
Consider alternative options: Look beyond traditional hotels and explore other options such as vacation rentals, hostels, or even camping. These alternatives can often be more budget-friendly.
Use comparison websites: Websites like Booking.com and Airbnb allow you to compare prices and find the best deals on accommodation. Take your time to research and read reviews to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.
By implementing these strategies, you can find cheap flights and accommodation options that fit your budget. Saving money on these essentials will free up funds for other exciting experiences during your trip. Remember, with a little bit of planning and flexibility, you can have an amazing adventure without breaking the bank.
Budget-Friendly Transportation and Local Transport Options
When it comes to traveling on a budget, transportation costs can quickly add up. However, with some smart planning and exploring local transport options, you can save money while getting around your destination. Let’s take a look at some budget-friendly transportation methods and local transport options that can help you save big.
Using Public Transportation
One of the most cost-effective ways to navigate a city is by using its public transportation system. Whether it’s buses, trains, or trams, these modes of transport offer affordable fares and extensive coverage. In addition to being budget-friendly, public transportation also provides opportunities to interact with locals and experience the city from a different perspective.
Renting Bikes or Scooters
Another great way to save money on transportation is by renting bikes or scooters. Many cities offer bike-sharing programs or scooter rentals, allowing you to explore at your own pace while enjoying the fresh air. Not only is this a budget-friendly option, but it also gives you the flexibility to stop and explore attractions along the way.
Local Transport Passes
Before setting off on your trip, check if your destination offers local transport passes. These passes often provide unlimited travel on buses, trains, and other modes of transport for a specified period at a discounted price. By purchasing a local transport pass, you can save money while having the convenience of unlimited travel, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious travelers.
By utilizing these budget-friendly transportation options and local transport passes, you can not only reduce your travel costs but also immerse yourself in the local culture and experience the destination like a true local. So, get ready to explore your dream destination on a budget-friendly adventure!
Eating Cheap and Local
When it comes to experiencing a new destination, one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the culture is through its food. However, dining out can quickly become expensive, especially in touristy areas. That’s why we’ve put together a guide on how to eat affordably while traveling, so you can satisfy your taste buds without breaking the bank.
One of the first tips is to seek out budget-friendly local eateries. These hidden gems often offer delicious and authentic meals at a fraction of the cost of tourist restaurants. Ask locals for recommendations or do some online research to discover popular spots among the locals. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also get a taste of the local cuisine.
Another great option for eating on a budget is to explore street food. Many cities and towns around the world have bustling street food scenes, where you can find tasty and affordable bites. Whether it’s a delicious taco from a food truck or a mouthwatering kebab from a street vendor, street food allows you to try a variety of local flavors without breaking the bank.
For those who prefer cooking their meals, consider booking accommodations with a kitchenette or access to a communal kitchen. This enables you to prepare your meals using local ingredients, combining cost-effectiveness with a hands-on culinary experience. Visit local markets or grocery stores to stock up on fresh produce, meats, and other ingredients, then get creative in the kitchen.
By embracing local cuisine and avoiding expensive tourist restaurants, you can save money and have an authentic culinary experience. Eating cheap and local allows you to discover new flavors, support local businesses, and make the most of your travel budget.
Conclusion
By implementing these budget travel hacks into your next adventure, you can save big without compromising on the quality of your trip. Finding cheap flights and accommodation, utilizing budget-friendly transportation options, and exploring local cuisine are just a few ways to cut costs and make the most of your travel budget. Discover why flights are so expensive right now and how to find the best deals.
Start by using flight comparison websites to score the best deals on airfare, and book your accommodations in advance to secure lower rates. Once you arrive at your destination, take advantage of public transportation, rent bikes or scooters, or use local transport passes to navigate the city affordably.
When it comes to meals, ditch expensive tourist restaurants and opt for affordable local eateries or street food options. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also get a taste of the authentic cuisine in your destination. And if you have access to a kitchen, consider cooking your meals using local ingredients from markets or grocery stores, which can be significantly cheaper than dining out.
By incorporating these budget travel hacks, you’ll be able to explore more destinations and have more enriching experiences, all while staying within your budget. So start planning your next adventure and get ready to see the world without breaking the bank!
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While finding cheap flights to European destinations is pretty straightforward, booking a long-haul trip from the UK can be a little more challenging. And while it’s only natural to look at flights departing from your local airport, this isn’t always the most cost-efficient method. In fact, in many cases, ‘positioning flights’ is the way to…
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