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Youdao’s Large Language Model Ziyue Takes Center Stage at World AI Conference

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HANGZHOU, China, July 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ –Youdao introduced its latest smart device, the Youdao Dictionary Pen X7, at the World AI Conference on July 4, 2024, in Shanghai. This launch marks a significant step forward in the field of integrated tutoring, utilizing artificial intelligence to expand educational opportunities.

At the Youdao booth, a series of impressive and innovative products were displayed. These included Youdao Listening Pod E6 Pro, serving both as a listening device and a language coach; Hi Echo, the world’s first digital human language coach; and Youdao Fun Sports, the first highly integrated intelligent sports terminal, among others. Powered by Ziyue, China’s first large language model (LLM) in education, these innovations underscore Youdao’s proficiency in synthesizing EdTech and innovation.


The Youdao Dictionary Pen X7 Unveils a New Era of AI-based Integrated Tutoring

The rollout of the Youdao Dictionary Pen X7 at the World AI Conference signaled a new phase in the integration of artificial intelligence in education scenarios. This smart device, which combines robust capabilities with innovative technology, quickly stood out as a highlight of the event.

This release signifies a leap forward in AI applications within educational tools. Youdao Dictionary Pen X7 incorporates two main applications from the LLM Ziyue: Hi Echo, the digital human language coach, and the Mr. P AI Tutor, the first all-subject AI tutor in China.


Leveraging the knowledge-answering capability of Ziyue, Youdao Dictionary Pen X7 addresses a wide array of educational needs, including word lookup, essay refinement, language learning, grammar instruction, etc. Acting as an always-available AI tutor, it tailors exercises to the learner’s proficiency and skillfully tackles questions in Chinese, math, physics and other subjects, offering precise and effective instructions.

At the World AI Conference, the Youdao Dictionary Pen X7 was introduced with a distinctive feature: an in-built camera, a first in the EdTech sector. The camera is complemented by a large, proprietary database of 72 million words that supports quick scanning, vocal queries, and photo inputs, making word lookup and translation easier for users.

A Full Array of AI Applications Addresses the Needs of Diverse Scenarios 

Hi Echo, the world’s first digital human language coach, provides real-time, personalized speaking practice alongside instant scores and detailed assessment reports. It recently enhanced its offerings by collaborating with the IELTS to include a built-in module for IELTS speaking preparation, featuring a continually updated database of practice questions and thorough review features. The tool has quickly become essential for Chinese students preparing for the IELTS speaking test, with Hi Echo surpassing one million registered users and earning several accolades for its innovation in AIGC.

Youdao Translation, which boasts the largest user base among learning apps in China, unveiled its latest AI enhancements at the conference. The features, developed under the LLM Ziyue, include sophisticated AI translation, document translation services, and AI-enhanced PowerPoint tools, designed to meet a broad spectrum of user demands while improving both learning and professional productivity.

Youdao Translation has emerged as a formidable player in the language translation market, having attracted over one billion users globally. Following the complete introduction of its AI-driven translation capabilities earlier this year, Youdao Translation has already seen significant adoption, with over five million users and more than 20 million instances of use.

Enabling Business Breakthroughs Through Technical Innovation

Another highlight was the introduction of Youdao Fun Sports. The innovative product allows users to log in, participate in various fitness activities, and view their performance metrics in real-time on a touch-enabled display, facilitating interactive and engaging physical training. The exercise routine includes pull-ups, standing long jumps, sit-ups, group skipping, and various track events from 50 to 1,000 meters, and ball sports. The terminal has been rolled out in over 200 primary and secondary schools across China.

Beyond its core role in education, the LLM Ziyue has proved its versatility and power by branching into the healthcare, media, and internet industries. Earlier this year, Youdao took a significant step by open-sourcing its proprietary RAG engine, QAnything, which has been adopted by hundreds of companies across more than 20 industries, empowering over 30,000 users to integrate advanced AI into their operations. 


The efficacy of Youdao’s AI educational tools is anchored in the robust LLM Ziyue, which debuted as China’s first educational LLM in July 2023. It rapidly rolled out six major applications and has since remained at the forefront of technological and application advancements. In November last year, Ziyue was among the initial educational models to gain official fillings. Recently, Ziyue achieved a milestone by passing the first series of evaluations conducted by the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology, receiving the highest accolade available.

Looking ahead, Youdao will continue to innovate and apply Ziyue across a broader array of fields, spearheading transformative changes beyond the educational sphere.

Safe Harbor Statement

These communications and presentations contain forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about the Company’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, and a number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “target,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “potential,” “continue,” “is/are likely to” or other similar expressions. The Company may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its reports filed with, or furnished to, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, in its annual reports to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about the Company’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Further information regarding such risks, uncertainties or factors is included in the Company’s filings with the SEC. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and the Company does not undertake any duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.

Investor Enquiries:

Jeffrey Wang
Youdao, Inc.
Tel: +86-10-8255-8163 ext. 89980
E-mail: IR@rd.netease.com

Media Enquiries:

Caifeng Li
Youdao, Inc.
Tel: +86-16619755407
E-mail: youdaopr@rd.netease.com

Source: Youdao, Inc.

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Prime your wallet! We found early Prime Day tech deals on Apple, HP, Acer and more

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The best day of summer is, of course, when it officially begins — but the second best (two) days of summer are coming up! Prime Day’s approach means Amazon has slashed prices on everything from computers to TVs and anything in between. We’re talking never-before-seen prices.

From Tuesday, July 16th until Wednesday, July 17th, many products will be at near or all-time-low prices. In some cases, those deals have already begun (Amazon Devices are unbelievably discounted right now!) Don’t wait — these deals won’t last forever, and some of the best ones have already begun to return to normal prices as the discounted stock runs out.

That’s not all, either. If you’re on the hunt for more than just tech, we’ve rounded up all the best deals from across Amazon as a whole. Expect major savings on robovacs, knife sets, shoes and even firepits.

Amazon

You don’t have to spend a small fortune on earbuds to get great audio. The Carego Wireless Earbuds are a budget-friendly alternative (especially when they’re nearly 60% off) that lets you get crystal-clear sound. They work with iPhone, Samsung, Android and other devices, too, so you aren’t stuck to a specific brand of gadget. 

$13 at Amazon

Amazon

These are outstanding earbuds with surprising sound quality given their light weight — just 3.7 grams each. They on-page coupon makes this an even better deal; in fact, the price with coupon is only about $0.80 above the all-time low price for these buds. You can expect a total of 24 hours of playback time between the buds and the case. 

Save $14 with coupon

$16 at Amazon

Amazon

When you want to take your jam session outside, it’s a good idea to have a speaker that can stand up to the elements. The Anker Soundcore Bluetooth speaker has a 24-hour battery life and is tough enough to handle splashes from the pool or a bit of rain without cutting the party short. 

Save $8 with coupon

$22 at Amazon

Amazon

These stylish cans combine a wild 60 hours of playback time with active noise canceling features to create a quiet, focused listening experience that’s hard to beat. Right now, they’re close to an all-time low price — not quite the lowest we’ve ever seen, but only a few dollars off. 

Save $20 with Prime

$40 at Amazon

Amazon

You might see people wearing Beats out in public a lot, and there’s a reason for that: these cans combine clear audio quality with a comfortable fit and long battery life. Right now, they’re marked down to 40% in advance of Prime Day.

$119 at Amazon

Amazon

These are the lowest-priced AirPods you can buy. Not just now — ever! That’s right: These have never dropped this low before, so you can take advantage of all of their great features while paying about half of what you normally would. 

These lightweight earbuds are renowned for their clear sound, deep bass and long battery life. Plus, their seamless integration and easy setup make them a top choice for Apple fans. 

$69 at Amazon

Amazon

When’s the last time you misplaced something? I spent far too long looking for my wallet this morning. AirTags can take away that problem entirely, allowing you to track exactly where your items vanish to. Right now, these are available for their lowest price ever. This deal makes it about $19 per tracker. 

Over 108,000 five-star shoppers have relied on these quarter-sized gizmos to keep track of their stuff. “If the AirTag is within 30 feet, your iPhone will help you locate it via an onscreen arrow. If it’s outside of that range, Apple’s Find My network kicks in,” says Broida. “Any other iPhone that comes within range of your AirTag will help you pinpoint its location. That’s incredibly powerful … and kind of mind-blowing.”

$75 at Amazon

Amazon

We picked the AirPods Pro as the best wireless earbuds overall and for good reason: They combine truly excellent audio quality with impressive noise-canceling. The battery life is a major plus, too. But the biggest selling point? These are at an all-time low price right now — we’ve never seen them drop to this price before. 

“There’s simply no better option than Apple’s latest AirPods Pro,” says our Tech Editor Rick Broida, praising the earbuds for their ANC, battery life and “an adaptive-audio mode that adjusts noise-cancelation and transparency modes based on the sounds around you.”

$199 at Amazon

Amazon

This iPad might be a few years old, but it offers one of the best value propositions of any tablet on the market. With this discount (which is only $20 more than the lowest price ever, by the way), you get a tablet that’s ideal for everything from working to playing, and for a bargain compared to the price of comparable tablets. 

$249 at Amazon

Amazon

Powered by the M2 chip, this MacBook Air is just as lightweight as its newer cousins but is available at a slightly discounted rate. You might not think that $100 off is much, but we’ve rarely seen this model drop lower than this. Now is a great time to buy — stock is limited, and this deal might end when the stock runs out. 

$799 at Amazon

Amazon

Lenovo is a Yahoo fan-favorite for a good, simple reason: They produce fantastic laptops. This Chromebook has 4GB of RAM and 64GB of onboard storage, but that’s not the demerit it seems, since most of your work will be done through the cloud. It’s a good option for an on-the-go student or someone who just wants to check out social media, but to be honest, we don’t generally suggest Chromebooks for anyone who needs serious word-processing capabilities. 

$245 at Amazon

Amazon

This midrange option sports several appealing features, which are all the more appealing given its $300 price tag. It’s got enough storage and RAM for basic use and, though its 128GB of storage suggests a flash drive might be a wise additional purchase, it’s still a terrific choice for a student or someone who wants a laptop for day-to-day use.

$300 at Amazon

Amazon

This is a work-focused machine with a lot of extra perks. It even has an SD Card reader, something you don’t see often on modern laptops. It even includes a year of Microsoft Office 365 for free (another $70 value). The hard drive is big enough that you can put away your flash drives, and the keyboard is large enough that your hands won’t cramp because of typing during a long day. 

$305 at Amazon

Amazon

If you’re in the market for a versatile gaming laptop that won’t break the bank, the HP Victus is a midrange machine that can handle almost any modern game on at least medium settings. The high refresh rate makes it a great option for esports titles like League of Legends or Overwatch, and it has a large enough drive to store multiple games at once. 

$600 at Amazon

Amazon

Think genie: big package, bigger power. This computer is packed with the latest tech to give you the most juice possible while running your favorite games. A huge amount of storage capacity, blazing fast processor, and a high-end graphics card means you’ll be able to max out the settings on nearly anything you want and still hit that coveted 60 FPS. 

$1,290 at Amazon

Amazon

All-time low price alert! The Fire TV Stick is a great way to add smart functions to a “dumb” TV. It also works if you have a smart TV and you just don’t like the interface. It’s a wild 55% off right now for Prime Day. 

$18 at Amazon

Amazon

Everyone’s favorite baseball-sized smart assistant is back on sale for an eye-opening 50% off — bringing it just $2 shy of its all-time lowest price. 

One of the most powerful Echo Dots yet, it has built-in temperature and motion sensors to set up useful routines. You can pair multiple devices together to expand the functionality across the home. Worried about privacy? An off switch makes it easy to disable the mic when you want to be sure it isn’t listening. 

$25 at Amazon

Amazon

The brand-new Echo Spot is on sale for over 40% off. It improves on the previous Echo Spot with a large display that makes it easy to see the time, temperature and weather at a glance. The sound is better too, and there are multiple layers of privacy controls to keep your business strictly yours. 

Save $35 with Prime

$45 at Amazon

Amazon

If you want an Echo Show that’s small enough to fit comfortably in your kitchen or bedroom, this is an excellent choice. It acts as a digital photo frame and even features widget functionality like the Echo Show 15. It’s been marked down by over 40% for Prime Day. 

$85 at Amazon

Amazon

Meet Amazon’s most powerful tablet ever, with 14 hours of battery life and a huge display that makes it just the ticket for everything from watching content to gaming. At nearly 40% off, it’s at the lowest price we’ve seen. 

$140 at Amazon

If you have Amazon Prime, you’ll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here. (And by the way, those without Prime still get free shipping on orders of $25 or more.)

Your Prime Day Shopping Guide: See all of our Prime Day coverage. Shop the best Prime Day deals on Yahoo Life. Follow Engadget for Prime Day tech deals. Hear from Autoblog’s experts on the best Amazon Prime Day deals for your car, garage, and home, and find Prime Day sales to shop on AOL, handpicked just for you.

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Delta says the Olympics will cost it $100 million as travelers skip Paris

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The Paris 2024 logo, representing the Olympic Games is displayed near the Eiffel Tower three months prior to the start of the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic games on April 21, 2024 in Paris, France. 

Chesnot | Getty Images

For more than 10,000 Olympic athletes, making it to Paris this summer is a dream come true. Thousands of potential tourists feel otherwise.

Delta Air Lines says travelers are avoiding the city this summer and booking to destinations elsewhere, amounting to a $100 million hit for the airline during an otherwise bustling summer for European travel, CEO Ed Bastian said.

Delta’s third-quarter profit and revenue forecast fell short of Wall Street expectations after airlines flooded the market with added flights. The airline reiterated its full-year outlook on Thursday.

“Unless you’re going to the Olympics, people aren’t going to Paris … very few are,” Bastian told CNBC. “Business travel, you know, other type of tourism is potentially going elsewhere.”

Delta has the most service of any U.S. airline to Paris and holds a joint venture with Air France. Together, the two carriers have approximately 70% market share in nonstop service between the U.S. and France, according to consulting firm ICF.

Read more CNBC airline news

On July 1, Air France-KLM, the parent of Air France, forecast a revenue hit of as much as 180 million euros ($195.5 million) in June through August because of the Olympic Games.

“International markets show a significant avoidance of Paris,” the company said. “Travel between the city and other destinations is also below the usual June-August average as residents in France seem to be postponing their holidays until after the Olympic Games or considering alternative travel plans.”

Bastian said Paris demand after the Olympics, which run July 26 through August 11, will likely be strong. “During the period itself there’s a little bit of a hesitation,” he said. Air France-KLM had a similar projection.

Delta Airlines check-in desk at Paris-Charles-de-Gaulle airport.

Bertrand Guay | Afp | Getty Images

One clear deterrent for mid-summer travel to Paris: Prices for hotel rooms are set to skyrocket.

Hotel-data firm STR said revenue per available room for upscale hotels in the City of Light will soar as much as 45% in July and August from the year-earlier period. Meanwhile, it forecasts a 3% to 5% increase in the metric in London and 2% to 4% increase in Rome for the same months.

Many travelers were already shifting their European vacations beyond the traditional summer travel season, Delta’s president, Glen Hauenstein, said on an earnings call on Thursday. That gives airlines a chance to earn more revenue outside of traditional peak seasons.

“We see the season extending as a whole group of people, whether or not it’s retirees, whether or not it’s people with double incomes and without children, who don’t have the school concerns,” he said. “It’s actually a better time to go to Europe in September and October than it is potentially in July and August when the weather is so hot and everything is so packed.”

He also said Delta is seeing a boom in travel to Japan, thanks in large part to a favorable exchange rate for U.S. tourists.

“When the yen was 83 [per U.S. dollar], it was very difficult to be able to afford to go see Japan and all the great things that Japan has to offer. With the yen at 160, it’s a very different world for U.S. travelers and they seem to be taking great advantage of that,” Hauenstein said.

Disclosure: CNBC parent NBCUniversal owns NBC Sports and NBC Olympics. NBC Olympics is the U.S. broadcast rights holder to all Summer and Winter Games through 2032.

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DOM PÉRIGNON RÉVÉLATIONS 2024

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BARCELONA, Spain, July 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — On July 8th, the champagne Maison Dom Pérignon and its Chef de Cave Vincent Chaperon gathered artists and creators, chefs and sommeliers from the Dom Pérignon Society from all over the world in Barcelona for the 4th edition of its Révélations event, an annual rendez-vous that invites guests to deep dive into the mystery of Dom Pérignon’s creative path.

To view the Multimedia News Release, please click: 
https://www.multivu.com/players/uk/9279751-dom-perignon-revelations-2024/

At the Révélations 2024, Dom Pérignon unveiled its two new vintages: Dom Pérignon Vintage 2015 and Dom Pérignon Vintage 2006 Plénitude 2, during an experience at Ricardo Bofill’s iconic La Fábrica. It was also the occasion for the storied Maison to inaugurate its very first exhibition that bears testimony to the Pré-Assemblages, the name given to the creative path of Dom Pérignon and its encounter with the singular character of the year. 

WHO ATTENDED DOM PÉRIGNON RÉVÉLATIONS 2024

Spanish artist Rossy de Palma, Spanish actor Ruben Cortada, English Chief Executive of Sarabande Foundation Trino Verkade, Italian actress, writer and director Valeria Bruni Tedeschi, Italian actor and writer Vinicio Marchioni, American Principal Dancer at the Bavarian State Ballet Julian MacKay, American writer and editor Derek Blasberg, and Canadian artist and painter Chloe Wise were amongst the attendees.

THE RELEASE OF VINTAGE 2015 AND VINTAGE 2006-PLENITUDE 2 AT RICARDO BOFILL’S ICONIC LA FÁBRICA

Guests were invited to delve into Dom Pérignon’s creative path during a unique experiential dinner born of a high-end creative dialogue between Chef de Cave Vincent Chaperon and Michelin-starred chefs Albert Adrià and Niko Romito, exploring the aesthetic value of Dom Pérignon Vintage 2015 and Dom Pérignon Vintage 2006 Plénitude 2: tactility. Each chef, starting from his own sensibility and creative direction, proposed a singular tactile encounter of his cuisine with each wine.

TRACE: PRÉ-ASSEMBLAGES 2023 AT PALAU MARTORELL, AN UNPRECEDENTED EXHIBITION DEDICATED TO DOM PÉRIGNON’S CREATIVE PATH 

In its desire to showcase its creative ethos and culture through the arts, Dom Pérignon invited its guests to discover in preview “TRACE”, an exhibition bearing the name of the creative intention of 2023 and that translates the creative steps Chef de Cave Vincent Chaperon went through. A yearlong quest for an imperceptible trace, documented by a talent collective with a variety of artworks – drawings, photographs and texts. The exhibition will be open to the public from July 10 to 14, 2024 at Palau Martorell, Barcelona.

Contact:

Thanh-ha Nguyen thanguyen@domperignon.com

Dom Pérignon Révélations 2024 dinner @Egami
Dom Pérignon Révélations 2024 dinner @Egami

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“Bleach: Brave Souls” Now Available on the Nintendo Switch

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TOKYO, July 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — KLab Inc., a leader in online mobile games, announced that its hit 3D action game Bleach: Brave Souls is available on the Nintendo Switch from today, Thursday, July 11. See the original press release (https://www.klab.com/en/press/) for more information.

KLab Inc., a leader in online mobile games, announced that its hit 3D action game Bleach: Brave Souls is available on the Nintendo Switch from today, Thursday, July 11.
KLab Inc., a leader in online mobile games, announced that its hit 3D action game Bleach: Brave Souls is available on the Nintendo Switch from today, Thursday, July 11.

The Nintendo Switch version of Brave Souls supports English, Japanese, French, and Traditional Chinese, and can be enjoyed by players from around the world (excluding mainland China and other specific regions) with access to the Nintendo eShop.

Nintendo eShop
https://nintendo.com/us/store/products/bleach-brave-souls-switch

New Platform Release Gift Campaign

A repost campaign is being held where participants can win amazing prizes such as a Nintendo Switch and Brave Souls merch.

Be sure to repost the campaign post found on the Brave Souls official X account to participate.

Switch Release Gift Campaign Period:
Thursday, July 11 to Wednesday, July 24 23:59 (JST/UTC+9)

Bleach: Brave Souls Official X Account:
https://x.com/bleachbrs_en

*Please note that campaign contents and the campaign period are subject to change without notice.
*Please check the news on the official website for more details.

New Payment Service “Bleach: Brave Souls Game Store” Available from Thursday, July 11

The Bleach: Brave Souls Game Store will be available from Thursday, July 11 as a new payment service where players can find good deals for purchasing in-game currency and more.

A campaign is being held to celebrate the launch.

Campaign Period
Thursday, July 11 19:30 to Thursday, July 18 15:59 (JST/UTC+9)

How to Enter

  1. Click on the Newsletter Registration Campaign notice in the Bleach: Brave Souls app.
  2. Click on the link found in the notice and register a personal email address with KLabGames Info.

Rewards

  • Super Rainbow Link Slot Potion x250, Rainbow Link Slot Potion x1000
  • Bleach: Brave Souls Game Store 10% Discount Coupon

Prize

100 winners will be selected from those who made a purchase on the Bleach: Brave Souls Game Store during the campaign period to receive Brave Souls original merch.

Brave Souls Original Acrylic Block (10 winners)
Brave Souls Original Desk Mat (20 winners)
Brave Souls Original Magnet (30 winners)
Brave Souls Original Clear File (40 winners)

*Please note that campaign contents are subject to change without notice.
*Further details on the campaign will be announced at a later date on the official website.
*Bleach: Brave Souls Game Store is not available for PlayStation®4, PlayStation®5, Nintendo Switch, and Xbox. Therefore, players on these platforms cannot participate in this campaign.

Thank you for your understanding.

Overview of Bleach: Brave Souls

Platform:                                   iOS /Android™/PC/PS4™/Nintendo Switch/Xbox One
Genre:                                       3D Action
Price:                                         Free-to-play (In-game purchases available)
Official Website:                       https://www.bleach-bravesouls.com/en/
Official X Account:                   @bleachbrs_en
Official Facebook Page:           https://www.facebook.com/BleachBS.en
Official YouTube Channel:       https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1QJ4uNQeijEx0jlo4nqauA
Official Instagram:                    @bleachbravesouls_official
Official Discord:                        https://discord.com/invite/bleachbravesouls
Official TikTok:                          https://www.tiktok.com/@bleachbrs_en_official
Copyright:                                 © Tite Kubo/Shueisha, TV TOKYO, dentsu, Pierrot
                                                   © KLabGames

Download Here:

App Store: https://itunes.apple.com/app/id1003168863
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.klab.bleach
Steam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1201240/BLEACH_Brave_Souls
PlayStation Store: https://store.playstation.com/concept/10002097
Nintendo eShop: https://nintendo.com/us/store/products/bleach-brave-souls-switch
Xbox Store: https://www.xbox.com/games/store/bleach-brave-souls/9nnrnx65nknb

Source: KLab Inc.

Source

Gardens outside Paris make spectacular impression on tourists as flowers turn heads and calm souls

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Claude Monet’s Gardens are both intimately familiar and overwhelming in their spectacle.

The French impressionist master lived in Giverny, France, for half his life, from 1883 to his death, at age 86, in 1926. 

The gardens inspired Monet’s greatest and best-known paintings. They are a popular tourist attraction today, located near a tranquil bend of the Siene River. It’s an easy one-hour drive northwest of Paris. (See the video at the top of this article.)

THIS POPULAR FLOWER IS IN SENSATIONAL FORM IN NEW ENGLAND THIS SUMMER

Giverny is frequented by various tour groups from the city and is a common stop for Seine River cruise ships. 

The spectacular gardens of Giverny proved a great source of inspiration for the artist. Monet’s arrival at Giverny coincided with a rise in his financial and artistic fortunes.

Claude Monet's Gardens at Giverny

One of the famous bridges seen in Claude Monet’s paintings is a popular photo stop for visitors to his Gardens at Giverny today. (Kerry J. Byrne/Fox News Digital)

“Claude Monet’s gardens at Giverny are like his paintings — brightly colored patches that are messy but balanced,” reports RickSteves.com.

“Flowers were his brushstrokes, a bit untamed and slapdash, but part of a carefully composed design. Monet spent his last (and most creative) years cultivating his garden and his art at Giverny, the Camp David of Impressionism.”

SINGLE MOM TRAVELS TO 17 COUNTRIES WITH BABY DURING 3-YEAR- PAID MATERNITY LEAVE

The gardens wow visitors with splashes of color from April to October. The landscape is highlighted by the bridges and water lilies seen in hundreds of Monet’s paintings known throughout the world. 

Here are some of the early summer flowery highlights of Monet’s Gardens at Giverny. 

Candle larkspur

Monet's Gardens at Giverny

Candle larkspur in bloom at Monet’s Gardens at Giverny, France, June 27, 2024.  (Kerry J. Byrne/Fox News Digital)

The plant gets its name from blooms that look similar to the claws or beaks of a lark bird.

“As larkspur typically blooms in the warm summer months, this flower often represents lightness, pure fun and the desire to be humorous,” reports the website of Nanz & Kraft Florists of Louisville, Kentucky.

“The larkspur is a symbol of an open heart, sincerity, strong love bonds and dedication.”

Canterbury bells

Monet's Gardens at Giverny

Canterbury bells at Monet’s Gardens at Giverny, France, June 27, 2024.  (Kerry J, Byrne/Fox News Digital)

This stunning and distinctive flower, a showstopper in any garden, has long been central to decorative gardening. 

STATE FLOWER QUIZ! CAN YOU MATCH THESE BEAUTIFUL FLOWERS WITH THEIR CORRECT STATES?

“The plant has been a part of European and English gardens since the 1500s and a part of American gardens since the 1700s,” reports the website of Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia.

“Most common blossoms are usually rich, deep purple, but can also be white, red or pink.”

Feverfew (with sun fly)

Bug on flower at Monet's Gardens

A bee seeks nectar in flower feverfew, a type of Chrysanthemum, found at Monet’s Gardens in Giverny, France. (Kerry J. Byrne/Fox News Digital)

Feverfew, a type of small daisy, has long played a role in folk medicine, first in Europe and later after it was imported to North America and other parts of the world. 

“Two common reasons people take feverfew are to try to prevent migraine or lessen arthritis symptoms,” reports WebMD.

Painted tongue

Monet's Gardens at Giverny

Painted tongue, also known as velvet trumpet flower, at Monet’s Gardens at Giverny, France, June 27, 2024. (Kerry J. Byrne/Fox News Digital)

One of the most beautiful blooms at Giverny, or in any garden, is known by a variety of names: painted tongue, tube tongue and velvet trumpet flower among them.

ON THIS DAY IN HISTORY, JULY 9, 1828, AMERICAN PAINTER GILBERT STUART DIES AT AGE 72

Whatever this flower is called, it offers “a kaleidoscope of color and glossy, spectacular details,” reports NorthAmericanFarmer.com. 

“This plant produces flowers that possess flamboyant pigment shadings and vivid veins.”

Safflower

Monet's Gardens at Giverny

Safflower in bloom at Monet’s Gardens at Giverny, France, June 27, 2024.  (Kerry J. Byrne/Fox News Digital)

These distinctive thistle-like flowers boast a significant history in human evolution far behind their eye-catching beauty.

“Safflower is one of the oldest known cultivated crops,” according to the website of Kew Royal Botanic Gardens of London. 

“It has been a highly valuable resource for thousands of years; first as a clothing and food dye, then as a cheap alternative to saffron, and now a cooking oil and vital ingredient in skin and hair care products.”

Virginia spiderwort

Monet's Gardens at Giverny

Virginia spiderwort in bloom on June 27, 2024, at Claude Monet’s gardens at Giverny, France. (Kerry J. Byrne/Fox News Digital)

An import from North America, this spectacularly vivid flower briefly blazes across Monet’s studio early summer and is a rare find even in its native habitat.

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“The flowers open only in the morning,” reports wildflower.org. “The petals then wilt and turn to a jelly-like fluid. Spiderwort flowers close by midday and last only one day.”

Water lilies

Monet's Gardens at Giverny

Water lilies in the pond at Monet’s Gardens at Giverny, France, on June 27, 2024. (Kerry J. Byrne/Fox News Digital)

Often called by their botanical name “nymphaea” in Monet’s paintings, water lilies are easily the most instantly recognizable flower at Giverny. 

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They form the centerpiece of a series of 250 Monet paintings, many of them among the world’s most well-known pieces of art.

“Apart from painting and gardening, I am good for nothing. My greatest masterpiece is my garden.”

“Monet grew white water lilies in the water garden he had installed in his property at Giverny in 1893,” reports the website of Musee d’Orsay in Paris. 

Monet's gardens triple split

Claude Monet’s gardens at Giverny, France is a popular tourist attraction an hour’s drive outside Paris. Visitors recognize the garden’s signature water lilies and bridges, both frequently featured in the artist’s paintings. (Kerry J. Byrne/Fox News Digital)

“From the 1910s until he died in 1926, the garden and its pond in particular, became the artist’s sole source of inspiration.”

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Monet himself said, “I have come back to things that are impossible to do: water with weeds waving in the depths. Apart from painting and gardening, I am good for nothing. My greatest masterpiece is my garden.”

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HOIANA RESORT & GOLF TO LIGHT UP THE SKIES WITH VIETNAM’S FIRST INTERNATIONAL KITE FESTIVAL!

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HOI AN, Vietnam, July 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Hoiana Resort & Golf will set the stage for sky-high entertainment and excitement this summer, with the launch of the inaugural International Kite Festival – a spectacular new event that will thrill local guests and overseas visitors alike.

New World Hoiana Beach Resort – the best integrated resort in Asia
New World Hoiana Beach Resort – the best integrated resort in Asia

An integral element of Hoiana’s “Summer Vibes” campaign, this four-day festival will run from 25-28 July 2024. Organised by Hoiana Resort & Golf in collaboration with the Quang Nam Department of Culture, Sports & Tourism, this groundbreaking event aims to showcase the craftsmanship and beauty of kite making and performing, while also establishing itself as an annual highlight on the region’s cultural and tourism calendar.

An estimated 10,000 visitors are expected during the four-day event, and guests can look forward to an array of activities, including captivating kite flying performances by teams from 12 different countries and regions, including Mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Korea, Japan, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, Australia, India and, of course, Vietnam.

The festival will feature a diverse range of kites and a colourful display area that promises to enchant audiences of all ages. One of the festival’s main attractions will be the spectacular LED kite flying program, illuminating the night sky on 26, 27 and 28 July, along with a music night featuring talented young performers on 27 July. In addition, guests can immerse themselves in kite making workshops, enjoy a variety of international cuisines, witness mesmerizing magic shows, experience unique fire dance performances, create memories in a photo booth, and partake in a myriad of other entertainment activities.

Booking the “Stay & Kite” package, guests will receive a VND 250,000 food and beverage voucher, plus unlimited access to the kite festival area. For outside guests, complimentary kite festival area access is available once they register for Hoiana Premium Rewards or purchase a food and beverage voucher.

Nestled on a 4km-long sandy beach, Hoiana Resort & Golf is the ultimate destination for family vacations. Guests can enjoy kayaking and paddleboarding, endless fun at Play, the 3,000 sqm kids’ club, a children’s mini water park at New World Hoiana Hotel, and golf at Hoiana Shores Golf Club, one of Asia’s best courses. A collection of 20+ restaurants provides plenty of options for memorable meals, and NOX Beach Club is a great place for parents and kids to unwind.

The International Kite Festival is just one of the activities being staged at Hoiana Resort & Golf this summer, as well as a Boxing Event with international title fighters, and all the action from the final stages of EURO 2024 and the Olympics!

To learn more about Hoiana Resort & Golf, visit www.hoiana.com.

About Hoiana Resort & Golf

Hoiana Resort & Golf, Vietnam’s pre-eminent luxurious integrated resort, is located on the 4-kilometer pristine coastline near two UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Hoi An Ancient Town and My Son Sanctuary. The stunning beachfront complex offers more than 1200 keys with four luxury hotels – the Hoiana Hotel & Suites, New World Hoiana Hotel, New World Hoiana Beach Resort, and Hoiana Residences – “A home away from home” with spaciously appointed apartments.

The resort boasts a magnificent 18-hole golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., the Hoiana Shores Golf Club – the sole golf course in Vietnam and the lone representative from Asia to be named one of the Top 100 Golf Courses in the world 2023 by Golf World Top 100 recently, besides many prestigious international awards.

NOX Beach Club is Central Vietnam’s largest and most spectacular multi-experiential destination, covering 5,000 square metres of verdant lawns, coconut groves and prime beachfront land. NOX features a large freeform swimming pool, cabanas, four restaurants, two bars, a retail space and more. It also sets the stage for upbeat entertainment, including themed events and beach parties.

As an ambitious development project worth USD 4 billion, Hoiana Resort & Golf will raise new standards for high-class tourism in Vietnam while bringing opportunities and economic prosperity to Quang Nam Province.

About New World Hotels & Resorts

New World® Hotels & Resorts is part of Rosewood Hotel Group, one of the world’s leading global lifestyle and hospitality management groups. New World Hotels & Resorts is comprised of upper-upscale hotels and resorts with a primary focus on gateways and getaway locations in Greater China and other markets in Asia. Each New World property is committed to delivering modern and genuine Asian hospitality experiences for modern leisure travellers and locals, through food, design and communities. Our properties strive to deliver positive impact by adopting sustainable practices and actively fulfilling the group’s commitment to social responsibility. The brand manages a collection of 15 properties located in China, The Philippines and Vietnam. Across all properties there are more than 300+ rooms offering a full range of convenient amenities and services, including a variety of restaurants, business services, flexible meeting facilities, Residence Club executive floors and recreational options.  For more information, please visit newworldhotels.com.

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5 travel essentials to pack for your summer getaway

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As the saying goes, “Luck favors the prepared.”

So, before you embark on an adventure, you may want to be travel-ready, especially during the busy summer season. 

With many Americans likely planning to travel this summer, packing these essentials could make trips more enjoyable and stress-free.

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Whether you’re headed to the beach, exploring a new city or camping in the mountains, consider these five must-have items on Amazon to make the most of your precious time off this summer. 

You can find them all on Amazon, and they can be delivered to your door in 24 hours if you’re an Amazon Prime member

You can join or start a 30-day free trial to shop.

Water bottle

This collapsible water filter squeeze bottle is easy to bring along while hiking, camping or when in need of clean drinking water during outdoor activities. (Amazon)

The LifeStraw Personal Water Filter bottle can be taken on any outdoor adventure or international travel where clean drinking water is not readily available. 

The portable water filter allows you to safely drink from rivers, lakes and other natural sources and filters up to 1,000 gallons (4,000 liters) of contaminated water without iodine, chlorine or other chemicals. 

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It removes 99.9999% of waterborne bacteria and 99.9% of waterborne protozoan parasites and is compact, lightweight and easy to carry, according to the Amazon description.

Portable charger

A portable charger will add juice to your devices and could come in handy if batteries are low at the beach or while you’re camping in the woods. (Amazon)

Staying connected is essential during travel, and the Anker PowerCore 10000 Portable Charger can help keep your devices charged while on the go.

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It’s compact, lightweight, and powerful enough to charge your phone multiple times, and its ultra-compact design fits easily in your pocket or bag, according to Amazon.

Sunscreen bottle

Avoid sunburn by bringing sunscreen on your next summer vacation. (Amazon)

Protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful rays is crucial during summer travel. 

Sun Bum Original SPF 30 Sunscreen Lotion offers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection as dermatologists recommend, and it’s water-resistant for up to 80 minutes.

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It’s also hypoallergenic for family members with sensitive skin and free of harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, according to Amazon.

Backpack

Consider a backpack to stow away your sunscreen, portable charger, snacks and much more. (Amazon)

Whether for a plane carry-on or for day trips, hikes or city exploration, a backpack is a ready bag to carry around and allows you to be hands-free.

The Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack is a versatile, lightweight choice that offers ample storage and comfort and is an excellent companion for any summer adventure. 

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It provides convenient and organized storage for all your travel essentials, ensuring that you have everything within easy reach.

Hat

If you’re going to be in the great outdoors, grab a hat to help you keep cool under the sun. (Amazon)

Stay cool and protected from the sun with the Columbia Bora Bora II Booney Hat. 

This hat is designed for maximum sun protection, making it a great option for outdoor activities.

It has UPF 50 sun protection built in and a wicking sweatband and mesh bands for breathability. 

Plus, worry less about losing your hat during an adventure — the Amazon description boasts an adjustable draw-cord with a toggle for a secure fit.

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Want to score a $20 credit from Amazon ahead of Prime Day next week? Here’s how

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You’ve probably started your wishlist of everything you’re hoping to buy once Amazon Prime Day 2024 kicks off next week (the sales extravaganza runs from July 16-17). But did you know the mega-retailer is looking to give you money as we speak? Yes, you can score $20 worth of Amazon credit, and you don’t have to jump through a zillion hoops to get it, either. Just upload a photo to the Amazon Photos app, and, well, yeah, that’s it.

Okay, there are a few caveats, but they’re pretty straightforward. First, you have to be an Amazon Prime member, but if you’re planning on making the most of this year’s Prime Day deals, you’ll need to have a membership anyway. (Sorry, free trials don’t count — you’ll have to be an actual member.) Second, this offer only applies to people who are using Amazon Photos for the first time.

So, if you’re a full-fledged Prime member who hasn’t used the Amazon Photos app before, you’re golden! Keep scrolling for the full nitty-gritty:

Amazon is offering $20 worth of Amazon credit to new Amazon Photos users who upload at least one photo to the app before 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time on July 12.

Once your photo has been uploaded, you’ll receive an email from Amazon within four days saying your $20 credit has been applied to your account. That means you’ll be able to use your credit towards Prime Day purchases, woohoo!

As mentioned, only Amazon Prime members who have not used Amazon Photos qualify, and free trial memberships are ineligible.

Amazon Photos is an app you can use to organize, share and back up photos and videos. You can also easily order prints of your photos through the app, or use them as screensavers for your electronic devices.

You can download the app for free and get 5 GB of combined photo and video storage. For more storage, plans start at $1.99 per month.

You can use your $20 credit to purchase items from Amazon.com and Amazon Digital Services. You’ll need to spend at least $30 before taxes and shipping to use the credit, and products sold by third-party sellers, even Prime-eligible ones, are excluded from this offer.

The $20 credit expires on July 17 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time, which is also the last day of Prime Day … so get clickin’!

Your Prime Day Shopping Guide: See all of our Prime Day coverage. Shop the best Prime Day deals on Yahoo Life. Follow Engadget for Prime Day tech deals. Hear from Autoblog’s experts on the best Amazon Prime Day deals for your car, garage, and home, and find Prime Day sales to shop on AOL, handpicked just for you.

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New Jersey travel guide to explore sparkling beaches, theme parks and more

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New Jersey, the Garden State, offers a wide range of experiences for travelers.

Whether you’re indulging in the sandy beaches of the Jersey Shore, immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of its cities or exploring historic sites and scenic parks, there’s a wide range of activities to suit every taste. 

Must-see places to visit in New Jersey

This guide will help you navigate the state’s diverse offerings, ensuring you uncover the very best activities and experiences New Jersey has to offer. And don’t forget about festivals like the New Jersey Balloon Festival or the Atlantic City Airshow.

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Keep these places on your travel itinerary for an unforgettable New Jersey trip:

Liberty State Park

Liberty State Park in Jersey City, New Jersey, offers stunning views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and the Manhattan skyline. 

Spanning 1,212 acres, the park is perfect for picnics, strolls and delving into American history. With attractions including the Liberty Walk, a two-mile promenade, and the historic Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal, visitors have plenty to enjoy.

Flags fly at Liberty State Park

Liberty State Park offers one of the best views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. (Gary Hershorn)

Jersey Shore

A visit to the Jersey Shore is an ideal outdoor activity for families and friends seeking both relaxation and excitement. 

Known for its beautiful beaches, bustling boardwalks, thrilling amusement rides and classic arcade games, the shore offers the perfect mix of leisure and entertainment. Wine and beer enthusiasts can indulge in local flavors along the Jersey Cape Winery & Brewery Trail in Cape May County.

Beyond Cape May, other must-visit cities on the Jersey Shore include Atlantic City, Wildwood and Ocean City, each with wide sandy beaches that encourage sunbathing, swimming and beach sports.

Adventure Aquarium

Adventure Aquarium has been named one of USA Today’s 10 top aquariums. Visitors can enjoy 15,000 aquatic creatures within 2 million gallons of water. 

Some of the more notable critters are hippos, the smallest species of penguins and large hammerhead sharks. The aquarium is one of three sites in the country where visitors can see a great hammerhead shark, according to the aquarium’s website.

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Current admission for adults ranges from $27.99 to $47.99 and $17.99 to $37.99 for children, according to the admission page on the aquarium’s website. Admission is based on timed entry, so visitors are encouraged to buy advance tickets. 

Six Flags Great Adventure & Safari

Families and friends ready for an outdoor thrill can all enjoy New Jersey’s theme park, Six Flags Great Adventure & Safari. 

Visitors of all ages can enjoy the theme park. It offers thrilling rides and a drive-thru safari adventure. The safari offers “1,200 animals from six continents, including elephants, rhinos, tigers, giraffes and lions,” according to the park’s website.

Giraffes at Six Flags in New Jersey

At Six Flags Great Adventure & Safari, visitors ride in open-air, off-road vehicles through the safari during a guided visit. (John Greim/LightRocket )

Boardwalk Hall

Boardwalk Hall is a must-see venue at the Atlantic City Boardwalk. Legendary guests have graced the stage, including the Beatles, Frank Sinatra, the Police and the Rolling Stones, according to the venue’s website. 

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Originally built as a convention center in 1929, Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall was restored in 2001 as a special events arena. Depending on the time of your visit, a trip to New Jersey can include a sporting event, a concert or comedy shows at Boardwalk Hall.

Beachgoers at a beach on the Jersey Shore

The city of Cape May, located at the southern tip of the Jersey Shore, is one of the oldest seaside resorts in the United States. (Gary Hershorn)

Grounds For Sculpture

A unique activity for families and art enthusiasts of all varieties is the Grounds For Sculpture, located in Hamilton, New Jersey. 

An ideal setting for a day trip, guests can enjoy the 42-acre sculpture park and museum that features permanent installations of 270 contemporary sculptures along with seasonal exhibits, according to Trip Advisor. 

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In addition to the educational opportunities that the grounds offer, visitors are encouraged to check the schedule for special events and performing art shows. 

Essential tips for navigating the Garden State 

While New Jersey might be small compared to other states, it offers a diverse range of activities for families, groups and individuals. 

Strategically planning your travel itinerary based on personal interests — and mapping out nearby attractions — will ensure you make the most of your trip across the state.

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When visiting the state, enjoying New Jersey’s culinary landscape is a must. Unofficially renowned as the diner capital of the world, these ubiquitous spots are symbolic of the state’s culture and charm. Other local staples that your trip should incorporate include the notable Jersey-style pizza, Taylor ham and the shore’s succulent seafood.

Greetings from New Jersey

New Jersey is known as the diner capital of the world with more than 500 diners. (Found Image Holdings/Corbis)

When to visit New Jersey

The prime visiting season is from mid-May to mid-September, when warm and tropical conditions can be enjoyed by beachgoers traveling to Atlantic City. Meanwhile, Jersey City shines as a prime destination during spring and autumn.

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For trips to Jersey City, spring and fall are optimal. However, plan for heavier traffic, especially on holiday weekends, and leave early to avoid the heaviest traffic times.

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