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Datasea Enters into New Sales Agreements for its 5G AI Communications and High Tech Acoustic Segments Expecting $62 Million in Sales

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The Three Agreements Support Continued Fiscal Year 2025 Revenue Growth for its Core AI-Based Businesses

BEIJING, July 1, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Datasea Inc. (NASDAQ: DTSS) (“Datasea” or the “Company”), a Nevada corporation engaged in innovative businesses in high-tech intelligent acoustics and 5G-Artificial Intelligence (“AI”) multimodal communication technology in the United States and China, today announced three new sales agreements with its subsidiaries in China. If the parties to these agreements that total approximately $61.7 million that encompass two agreements for its 5G-AI communications segment, and one agreement for its high tech acoustic products segment.

Ms. Liu Zhixin, CEO of Datasea, commented, “We are pleased to enter into the new agreements as they are expected to increase new customer orders for both our 5G AI communications and acoustics products segments. We believe that both of our businesses are beginning to gain excellent traction due to their high value in the 5G communications and healthy living marketplaces. In addition, we are confident that the two segments’ core AI functionality will drive further technological innovation and increased market share.”

Datasea’s three new sales agreements are as follows:

  • On May 15, 2024, the Company’s Guozhong Haoze subsidiary signed a 5G AI Multimodal Communication Agreement with Shenzhen Juhaowan Technology Co., Ltd. (“Juhaowan”), an online lifestyle services and application service provider. According to the agreement, Juhaowan can purchase 5G multimodal communication delivery services from Guozhong Haoze over the course of 12 months that have an estimated total value of up to $30 million.
  • On May 13, 2024, the Company’s Heilongjiang Xunrui subsidiary signed a 5G AI Multimodal Communication Agreement with Shenzhen Yuzhongqing Technology Co., Ltd. (“Yuzhongqing “), a firm primarily engaged in internet and related services. According to the agreement, Yuzhongqing can purchase 5G multimodal communication delivery services from Heilongjiang Xunrui over the course of 12 months that have an estimated total value of up to $30 million.
  • On June 8, 2024, the Company’s Shuhai Jingwei subsidiary entered into an Acoustic Products Sales Agreement with Tianjin Qianli Culture Communication Co., Ltd. (“Qianli Culture”), an internet promotion and marketing service provider, for the Company’s acoustic high tech products. According to the agreement, Qianli Culture will purchase a total of approximately 20,000 units of the company’s “Tianer” and “Star Sleep” branded products, including air disinfection machines, restroom deodorization and disinfection devices, and sleep aids, by December 31, 2024; the total contract amount is approximately $1.7 million.

About Datasea Inc.

Datasea Inc. (“Datasea”) is a leading provider of products, services, and solutions for enterprise and retail customers in innovative industries, Intelligent Acoustics and 5G multimodal communication, especially focusing on ultrasonic, infrasound and directional sound technology. The Company’s advanced R&D technology serves as the core infrastructure and backbone for its products. Its 5G multimodal communication segment operates on a cloud platform based on AI. Datasea leverages cutting-edge technologies in intelligent acoustics, utilizing ultrasonic sterilization to combat viruses and prevent human infections, and is also developing innovations in directional sound and medical ultrasonic cosmetology. In July 2023, Datasea established a wholly-owned subsidiary, Datasea Acoustics LLC, in Delaware, in a strategic move to mark its global presence. This underlies Datasea’s commitment to Intelligent Acoustics and its intent to offer leading edge acoustic solutions to the US market. For additional information, please visit: www.dataseainc.com.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements 

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and as defined in the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will”, “expects”, “anticipates”, “future”, “intends”, “plans”, “believes”, “estimates”, “target”, “going forward”, “outlook,” “objective” and similar terms. Such statements are based upon management’s current expectations and current market and operating conditions, and relate to events that involve known or unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, all of which are difficult to predict and which are beyond Datasea’s control, which may cause Datasea’s actual results, performance or achievements  (including the RMB/USD value of its anticipated benefit to Datasea as described herein) to differ materially and in an adverse manner from anticipated results contained or implied in the forward-looking statements. Further information regarding these and other risks, uncertainties or factors is included in Datasea’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, which are available at www.sec.gov. Datasea does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required under law.

Investor and Media Contact: 

Datasea Inc. Investor relations
Email:  investorrelations@shuhaixinxi.com
            sunhezhi@shuhaixinxi.com 

Precept Investor Relations LLC
David Rudnick
+1 646-694-8538
david.rudnick@preceptir.com

Source: Datasea Inc.

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VinHMS Ramps Up Global Expansion with Strategic Acquisition

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HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, July 1, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — VinHMS – an innovator in hospitality technology, has been actively pursuing its strategic plans for international expansion. Established in December 2018 as a member of Vingroup, VinHMS specializes in providing high-quality technology products, and aims to optimize business operations for enterprises. After 5 years of establishment, VinHMS is actively expanding its presence in the domestic market, and plans to extend its footprint out of the borders. This expansion strategy underscores VinHMS’s commitment to becoming a leading provider of hospitality technology solutions in Southeast Asia and the international market, with operations in Vietnam, Singapore, Cambodia, and Thailand. By leveraging native cloud-based platforms, VinHMS aims to reduce overall costs, streamline processes, enhance operational efficiency, accelerate innovations, improve guest experiences, and increase financial performance for hotel operators using AI, machine learning, and proprietary advanced algorithms.


The expansion of VinHMS extends beyond Asia following its successful acquisition by Vemanti Group, Inc., a leading technology holding company. This strategic move positions VinHMS as a frontrunner in digital solutions for the hospitality sector. Leveraging its expertise in digital transformation solutions, VinHMS aims to revolutionize the American hospitality industry. With a strong track record in Southeast Asia, VinHMS brings its innovative solutions to U.S. hotel operators. This strategic move underscores VinHMS’s commitment to global innovation and customer-centric solutions. VinHMS’s acquisition represents a pivotal moment in the Company’s collective history, setting the stage for a future defined by innovation, market leadership and ambitious path to NASDAQ.

A recent highlight for VinHMS was its participation in HoSkar Night Bangkok hosted by WeHub, this is the most vibrant networking event for hospitality and real estate in Southeast Asia. This event provided a platform for VinHMS to showcase its latest innovations and network with industry leaders in Thailand. VinHMS’s involvement in HoSkar Night reinforces its status as a key player in the hospitality technology sector and highlights its ongoing efforts to stay at the forefront of industry trends.

VinHMS offers a range of products designed to meet the diverse needs of the hospitality industry. As a member of HTNG and compliance with international standards, such as ISO 27001:2013 and PCI/DSS, proves the reliability of its solutions in satisfying the most stringent requirements when integrating with leading hotel chains worldwide. This commitment remains VinHMS’s orientation as it builds prestige with international partners. Its flagship solution, the comprehensive hospitality management platform, has been successfully implemented in major hotel brands such as Vinpearl, Melia Hotel International, Marriott, Sheraton, CityHouse and more. Specifically, VinHMS provides offers a suite of innovative solutions in the hospitality technology sector, including:

  • CiHMS: VinHMS’s flagship hospitality management solution. It helps hotels streamline operations, maximize revenue, and enhance guest experiences.
  • CiAMS: A solution for managing hotel assets efficiently, optimizing resource utilization, and ensuring operational effectiveness.
  • CiTMS: Designed for theme parks, this system assists in managing operations, ticketing, and guest experiences.
  • CiTravel: A digital transformation solution tailored for small hotels, enabling them to enhance their services and improve guest satisfaction.

The vision of VinHMS is to lead the digital transformation in the hospitality industry, providing innovative solutions that drive operational excellence and customer satisfaction. Mr. Hoang Nguyen, CEO of VinHMS, said: “We want to provide an open platform that acts as a foundation for hotels to do innovations. All standard hotel operation tools are there, but the most important thing about our platform is that we can easily connect and integrate with many technology providers to improve cost, increase revenue, and enhance hotel customer experiences.”

About VinHMS:

VinHMS is a technology company specializing in cutting-edge products and solutions aimed at optimizing business operations for customers in the hospitality industry. VinHMS’s comprehensive solution set comprises of CiHMS, CiAMS, CiTMS, and CiTravel. The flagship product is the complete hospitality management platform CiHMS, which is capable of handling all operational needs of 4-star to 5-star hotels and hotel chains. VinHMS pursues the mission of transforming hospitality operations through technology innovations.

VinHMS has processed transactions valued close to $500 million through its solutions, demonstrating significant growth and market acceptance. With rapid expansion, VinHMS is continuing to focus on operational excellence, achieving satisfaction, and developing sustainable growth for more hospitality entities in the future.

Learn more at: https://vinhms.com.

About WeHub:

WeHub, owned by Vision Asia Pacific, is one of the most vibrant hospitality and real estate communities in Vietnam and Southeast Asia. WeHub was founded with the vision to connect businesses, people and ideas. The platform offers the latest trends and insights while facilitating business connections within the real estate and hospitality industries through various activities, including Meet The Experts conferences (MTE), HoSkar Night networking events, SIF masterclasses, and WeTalk private meetings for lead generation.

Follow WeHub’s official channels at:

– LinkedIn: https://shorturl.at/Rw9GA 

– Facebook: https://shorturl.at/YKnlY 

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Eat eggs, spend time near water and more. 7 tips to help you have a healthy week.

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Hello, health enthusiasts! My name is Kaitlin, and I’m here to provide you with some wellness tips to help you live your best life. The Fourth of July is this week, so enjoy the holiday by watching fireworks (keep these safety tips in mind and protect your kids and pets), trying a red, white and blue recipe or any of these other fun activities. Before making plans, take a peek at your local weather forecast (is it beach weather, or finally time to turn down the AC?) and, if you’re so inclined, your horoscope. Then look at the tips below to see what choices you can make in the coming days to better your body and mind.

🌊 Spend time near water

TikTok is all about the “Blue Mind Theory,” which says that you can use the meditative feeling you get while looking at a body of water as part of your manifestation practice. Research says that says spending time in so-called “blue spaces” can help you feel more calm and relaxed, so if you’re feeling stressed, it might be time to seek out the loveliest lake you can find. (Just make sure to practice water safety while you’re there!)

🇫🇷 Try living the French way

Have you ever dreamed of living in Paris? While you may not be able to jet off just yet, you can embrace the French way of life exactly where you are. These tips from Business Insider, which include enjoying fresh produce to actually disconnecting from work when you’re off, can help you live your best, healthiest life — without a literal view of the Eiffel Tower out your window.

💉 Consider underarm Botox … maybe

It’s summer. It’s hot. Sweating is inevitable — or is it? Self asked people who have gotten underarm Botox to curb sweating whether they’re a fan of the procedure, despite the expense (and needles!) that comes along with it.

Can you sit alone with your thoughts? If the idea seems boring at best and unsettling at worst, Yahoo contributor Dr. Samantha Boardman agrees — but points to research that says doing just that may actually come with big benefits. That includes fostering a greater sense of self. Meditation and other relaxation techniques, which involve sitting quietly without distraction, can also help you regulate your emotions and learn to let go of stress more easily in the rest of your life. So: put down the podcast, turn off the TV and just veg.

🍳 Eat eggs

For a long time, eggs got an unwarranted bad rap. Now, new research shows that eating eggs may actually ward off Alzheimer’s — provided you eat the yolk too. That’s because egg yolks are rich in choline, which supports neurotransmitters important for storing memories. Add some to avocado toast or grab a hard-boiled egg before the gym to get your brain boost.

🏋️ Try wrist weights — but be mindful

If you want to kick up the intensity of your walk, you may want to try wearing wrist weights, which can give you a cardiovascular boost. Experts warn that you shouldn’t go too heavy with these accessories, as anything over three pounds can significantly impact your gait, leading to improper technique that can hurt you in the long run. Also, don’t expect to tone up: you’ll still need to hit the gym to build muscle, as these weights are too light to make much of a difference.

👥 Go deep with friends

Sending a meme to your friends (an interaction also referred to as pebbling) is nice, but if you want meaningful connection, you should aim to build more significant connections, per a new study of university students. The researchers found that meaningful social interactions with peers, like deep conversations (particularly when they were face-to-face) were linked to less loneliness and stress.

👒 Pull weeds and plant seeds

Need a new hobby? Try gardening. There are oodles of mental health benefits, such as reducing stress — not to mention how spending time in the sun can improve your mood overall. (Just don’t forget to wear sunscreen … and maybe a big hat!) Plus, gardening is classified as low-to-moderate intensity exercise, which means your time in the soil can count toward your weekly workout goals. Pick up some heavy soil bags and you’re getting some resistance training in too!

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Final Tee-Off At Marina Bay Golf Course: The Sunset That Promises A New Dawn

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NTUC Club continues to make the sport accessible and affordable for all through partnerships and its estate-less golf club, My Golf Kaki, amid plans for a new, integrated golf development.

SINGAPORE, June 30, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — This Sunday on June 30, Marina Bay Golf Course (MBGC) – Singapore’s first and only 18-hole public golf course owned and managed by NTUC Club – will shutter as its land lease expires. Since its inception in 2006, MBGC has had an illustrious 18-year history, welcoming members of the public to experience its world-class facilities. It made its mark by earning numerous accolades including Best Public Golf Course in Asia Pacific and ranking among the Best Top 3 Best Golf Course in Singapore.

Marina Bay Golf Course, owned and managed by NTUC Club
Marina Bay Golf Course, owned and managed by NTUC Club

Fun fact: In the past 18 years, the well-loved MBGC has seen more than 1.3 million people on the greens and dispensed over 419 million driving range golf balls.

Despite the closure of MGBC, NTUC Club will continue to make the sport accessible and affordable through its estate-less golf club My Golf Kaki (MGK). This has been done by providing more slots to MGK members during weekdays as well as increasing the number of days night-golf is available at the Orchid Country Club (OCC). Together with the recent expansion of MGK’s portfolio of local and overseas courses including in Indonesia and Malaysia, MGK members can not only enjoy an easier planning and booking process, but have a wider variety of golf courses to choose from as well. 

Mr Lim Eng Lee, NTUC Club’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “Despite the closure of MBGC, we hope to continue to make golf an affordable and accessible sport. In anticipation of MBGC’s closure, we have stepped up efforts since last year to promote the affordable MGK membership to golfers. We are encouraged by the response with the community growing from 7,000, to over 9,000 members in the last 12 months. I am pleased that NTUC Club has been working closely with the SGA in our shared vision that golf can be an inclusive sport to be enjoyed by all.”

Mr Tan Chong Huat, President of the Singapore Golf Association (SGA), remarked: “The closure of the hugely popular Marina Bay Golf Course will significantly impact Singapore’s golfing community without access to a private golf club. We acknowledge the impact of land scarcity on the entry barrier and accessibility to playing golf in Singapore. As the national custodian of the sport, SGA will continue to play its leadership role in developing a robust golf ecosystem that strives to promote and develop the game of golf for all Singaporeans from all walks of life.”

He added that SGA will uphold its commitment to making golf an inclusive sport that contributes to the physical and mental well-being of Singaporeans. It remains dedicated to this mission and looks forward to working with stakeholders, including NTUC Club, to achieve pragmatic and beneficial outcomes aligned with urban growth needs and the development of golf in Singapore.

Similarly, NTUC Club is deeply committed to grow Singapore’s golfing community, and has been in discussion with the authorities for potential sites that can be developed under the Labour Movement (LM). NTUC Club plans for future LM golf courses to be inclusive with a new, integrated golf concept – one that is enhanced by additional recreational spaces for family-friendly activities such as cycling tracks, nature trails, and common spaces for picnics and performances. Future LM golf courses will welcome not just golfers, but the public and people from all walks of life.

Visuals of MBGC are available here.

About Marina Bay Golf Course

Opened in November 2006, Marina Bay Golf Course is Singapore’s only 18-hole public golf course. From a humble reclaimed land to the transformation into an award-winning golf course, this landmark is best known for the only par 6 in Singapore and signature island green overlooking the cityscape. Marina Bay Golf Course is operated by NCI Golf Pte Ltd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of NTUC Club.

About My Golf Kaki

Golf for all, Golf for Good. 

Teeing up a vision to be the trusted and leading golf community where everyone can experience and immerse themselves in the game of golf, regardless of status and abilities, My Golf Kaki (MGK) is an energetic community powered by UPlay. As avid golfers ourselves, we’re driven by a deep passion for making golf accessible and growing our community of Golf Kakis. Established in 2002, in 2023, we embarked on an exhilarating transformation, complete with a refreshed look and exciting new experiences for our kakis. We’re now even more committed to provide members with affordable and amazing golf experiences, complemented by unparalleled service. Join our vibrant golf community in making a positive difference through golf, where we create social impact and foster a strong sense of community! For more details on MGK, visit  www.mygolfkaki.com.

About NTUC Club

Established in 1986, NTUC Club is the leisure and entertainment arm of the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) in Singapore. As part of the Labour Movement (LM), we are committed to providing diverse recreational options guided by values of care, passion, trust, and service. NTUC Club manages clubhouses across the island, Downtown East, D’Resort, Wild Wild Wet, Aranda Country Club, Orchid Country Club, and UPlay. Launched in 2023, UPlay offers ‘phygital’ recreational experiences, partnering with unions and companies to enhance social well-being and community engagement. NTUC Club also oversees community initiatives like nEbO, U Live and My Golf Kaki – promoting engagement and enrichment for workers. For more details on NTUC Club, visit www.ntucclub.com.sg.

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This bestselling shower caddy set can hold up to 40 pounds — and it’s down to $18

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We love our beauty routines. Cleansing and conditioning our hair, exfoliating our skin and sudsing up. Our mornings are glorious! But it’s so easy for hair and beauty products to take over the bathroom. Salt scrubs, body wash, shampoo, conditioner, lotion, shaving cream — if you’re not careful, your shower staples can turn into a minefield. But you don’t have to suffer through the clutter. Amazon is offering up the No.1 bestselling Eudele Adhesive Shower Caddy for just $18 when you apply the on-page coupon.

Amazon

This handy bathroom organizer includes five pieces for different uses: Two large shower caddies, two soap holders and a toothbrush holder.

Save $52 with coupon

$18 at Amazon

If you’re looking to organize your bathroom for spring, now is the time to jump on this deal. The caddy set is over 70% off when you clip the on-page coupon, and $18 is the lowest price we’ve seen in a long time.

Easy to install, the Eudele Adhesive Shower Caddy kit comes with five organizers. Got big bottles of shampoo? There’s a caddy for that. Got a bar of soap? There’s a caddy for that. How about an electric toothbrush that needs to stand upright? This kit has you covered. Adhesive backing means you can stick ’em to tile walls or other non-porous surfaces without breaking out any tools. Concerned that a rogue caddy will fall on your toes mid-shampoo? Don’t worry: The big ones can handle up to 40 pounds — that’s a lot of body wash.

You'll feel a lot cleaner when there's no clutter in your shower. (Amazon)

You’ll feel a lot cleaner when there’s no clutter in your shower. (Amazon)

Over 14,000 shoppers have decluttered their showers with this problem-solver.

“We really liked this set of shower caddies,” a satisfied shopper shared. “They seem to be very durable with very strong adhesive. We have a fiberglass bath and bought two sets of these. We have ours filled with heavy shampoo bottles and have had no problems at all with them after one month so far.”

“I am impressed with the strength of the adhesive,” wrote a five-star fan. “I actually moved the location twice, and the adhesive held up very well. I have a small shower and these are perfect.”

“I was tired of knocking over all the body care items I had in the shower and this solved the problem,” an enthusiastic shopper shared. “Now everything is contained nicely and doesn’t look cluttered, might I add it was easy to put up and very sturdy.”

“The adhesive strips are insanely strong,” agreed a final reviewer. “This is very much a positive, but unfortunately, my boyfriend hung one upside down (and in an absurd arrangement) so we had to remove and replace. We ordered replacement adhesives which was easy enough, but getting the originals off … not for the faint of heart.”

“These are fine until you want to move them. There are no extra sticky pieces to replace,” wrote one reviewer. “They don’t stay stuck to the shower wall as well as I thought.”

“A larger basket only holding four to five bottles, nothing over an 8-ounce size product with at least two containers nearly empty and one about half empty, had two brackets that hold the basket break in about 1.5 months after receiving and hanging in the shower, wrote another reviewer. “Now we have a larger size basket sitting on the shower ledge. The way the bracket hangers are designed you cannot replace single brackets, and the bracket/basket that wasn’t used originally is too small.”

Amazon

Although it’s called a shower caddy, this set works wonders in the kitchen as well.

Save $52 with coupon

$18 at Amazon

Thinking about giving your shower an overhaul? This shower head has a massive fanbase — it’s racked up more than 17,000 five-star reviews peppered with phrases like “rivals the high-end ones” for its high-pressure flow.

Amazon

This fixed shower head has five different settings and is made with rust-proof chrome. 

“Holy gosh to goodness,” shared a five-star fan. “That rain mode is nothing short of heavenly! I just want to be in the shower all day and night now. Addictive, yes! Be warned!”

$17 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.)

The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.

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Record summer airline travel is starting, and so are the flight delays

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Travelers walk with their luggage outside the international terminal at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) ahead of the July 4th holiday travel period on June 25, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. 

Mario Tama | Getty Images

Summer air travel is expected to soar in the United States. The Transportation Security Administration screened a high of 2.99 million individuals on Sunday, June 23 — exceeding a record set just weeks earlier on May 24 — and the TSA is forecasting a record-setting July 4 holiday period. TSA expects to screen more than 32 million travelers in all between Friday, June 28, and Monday, July 8, a 5.4% year-over-year increase in travel for the holiday.

The record-breaking air traveler numbers come amid airline challenges, from supply chain delays to intense regulation, the Boeing safety crises limiting new planes coming to market, air traffic controller “fatigue,” extreme weather delays, and rising costs which have hit the carriers’ bottom line and compressed margins.

Airports weren’t wholly ready for the initial summer rush. Over 6,000 flights were delayed by the evening of Friday, May 24, on the East Coast alone. While there may be enough flights to meet demand, the record travel still pose challenges to airports, airlines, and travelers. For now, the airlines are expressing confidence.

Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian told CNBC’s “Squawk Box” this week that its performance levels are excelling, with the “best first quarter reliability [Delta has] ever seen.” (Delta has the best on-time record in the U.S.)

But there will also be the need for coordination.

American Airlines CEO Robert Isom told “Squawk Box” the company is making sure to “run the most reliable airline possible,” but factors affecting on-time flights vary from weather to air traffic control issues.

Delta's most exclusive airport lounge opens: Here's what you need to know

Air traffic, extreme weather

The Federal Aviation Administration has found a shortage of up to 3,000 needed air traffic controllers. Last summer, a record-breaking summer for airports, there were air traffic jams and near collisions amid challenges in flight coordination. Based on air traffic patterns and airport density, New York City and Florida are subject to the highest risk of backups.

The massive heat wave across the U.S. was a peek at the kind of extreme weather that can lead to travel issues. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration expects disruptive weather for the holiday week, with storms across the Midwest and East Coast, and continuing dangerous heat in the Southwest and interior Northeast.

Extreme temperatures cause technical failures that result in delays. High heat creates thin air, which hampers the plane’s thrust for takeoff and ascent. That means airplanes need more runway for takeoff or a lighter aircraft — by removing baggage or passengers. And it means that very high temperatures increase the risk of flight cancellations. The best bet to avoid this risk is to take early morning and late-night flights.

Good news to reduce travel anxiety

If travelers prepare and secure backup plans, they can make the best out of the busy summer season. And despite travel anxiety and a cascade of uncertain factors, travel expert and managing editor at The Points Guy, Clint Henderson, says airlines and airports are so far showing signs of being better prepared than past years.

Despite May issues and despite some airlines pulling back on overall hiring plans compared to past years, in part due to Boeing delays, Henderson said, “We have not seen the major meltdowns that we saw a couple of years ago. And I think part of the reason for that is the airlines and the airports, and everyone from Uber to rental car companies, you know, you name it, everyone staffed back up.”

The Points Guy Brian Kelly reveals his best and worst U.S. airlines

United Airlines has projected a 7% increase in flyers from the 2023 Independence Day week, and is adapting with new staff. American Airlines is slated for 10% more summer departures year over year.

Improvements in coordination for air traffic controllers are also taking place. “The federal government and local ATC towers have been working together better, and that includes the military. They’ve opened up military airspace to help accommodate the crowd, so we have seen snarls,” Henderson said. “There is still a shortage of air traffic controllers, but it hasn’t led to the worst outcomes that we were expecting when we were talking about the shortage of air traffic control workers even a year ago.”

That said, he warns that in severe weather, a shortage of air traffic control may still worsen delays for travelers.

Tips for Independence Day travel

With lower-than-expected prices, many more flyers this summer are infrequent flyers, who should start by signing up for airline apps which may offer them some introductory benefits, starting with miles and extending to free WiFi on some flights.

Henderson said the easiest ways to save hours of wait times include signing up for programs that offer passengers faster movement through security, including TSA PreCheck and Clear, as well as the no-application-required Mobile Passport Control app, which allows users to go through an expedited U.S. Customs lane.

He also recommended the “Flighty” tracker app, or similar flight tracker, to stay on top of options in the event flight status changes. Flyers need to also stay on top of the routes that the planes they plan to take are already traveling on, to catch issues at other airports which could ultimately cause a cascade of cancellations.

“If your flight gets canceled, you’re competing with all those people on that plane to get on the next available flight. So if you have a head start on those people, you’re going to be the winner,” Henderson said. When it comes to traveling during peak season, “Information is power,” he said.

Cheaper airfares may not be here to stay

Airfares are down, but many factors influence price, from the specific destination of a traveler, with wide variation in prices depending on route, to how far in advance tickets are purchased, midweek travel versus weekend dates, and what additional fees (e.g. baggage) may push up the total cost of travel significantly.

In addition, with issues lingering in the supply of new planes, from Boeing production being curtailed by the FAA to Airbus running into supply chain snafus, the recent dip in fares may not last too long. Henderson eventually expects price hikes from airlines related to increasing maintenance costs and reduced fleet capacity.

Labor costs and fuel costs per flight skyrocketed in the past year. With production delays, airlines pay billions to fly less fuel-efficient and more costly and aged jets. Technical issues are more common on older plans and increase delays as well.

On June 26, Southwest Airlines cut its second-quarter revenue forecast while citing booking concerns. The firm announced a decline in expected revenue per seat per mile, and fuel costs increasing up to 7.5% year over year.

But for now, even with rising costs, flight prices have yet to return to their summer 2023 peaks, and consumers are taking advantage. Henderson said many last-minute travel deals that airlines are offering this summer are still available. Even if the security lines are long, prices on many routes should not weigh travelers down. Hopefully, neither will delays and cancellations.

American Airlines shares plunge after sales strategy backfires

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Enchanting Deyang Shines in Hong Kong

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HONG KONG, June 29, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — This is a report from Xinhuanet:

Enchanting Deyang Shines in Hong Kong
Enchanting Deyang Shines in Hong Kong

On June 29, “‘See the Spectacular and Kaleidoscopic China’—Victoria Park Celebrate the Return of Hong Kong” opens in Victoria Park, Hong Kong, and Deyang, catching the audience’s attention with its unique charm. In the exhibition, people immerse in the whole archaeological research process via Sanxingdui VR interactive cabin, buy the lovely Sanxingdui cultural and creative products, see the ingenious skills of intangible cultural heritage, queue up in front of various speciality food stalls…… They fully enjoy themselves in Deyang’s beautiful cityscape and the mysterious Sanxingdui culture.

Sanxingdui becomes the most popular in Deyang’s exhibition. In Sanxingdui VR interactive cabin, the audience “walk” into the exact Sanxingdui archaeological site, and close contact with the new archaeological technologies used on site. They can also scan the QR code of Sanxingdui Museum, appreciate the over 2-metre bronze statue, the bronze mask with protruding eyes and big ears, and the mask with a gold content of about 85%. They feel like travelling back, as the life of ancient Shu people slowly unfolds in front of their eyes.

Also, more than 40 cultural and creative products from Sanxingdui Museum appear in the exhibition: “Chuan Shu Xiaodui” blind box, “Long Hu Zun” tea set, bronze bird plush toy, bronze standing man…… They are all popular among the audience.

Mianzhu New Year’s painting, Deyang Chaozhou-style round fan, Luojiang soybean meat, eight delicacies oily cake, Changlin century egg…… The local specialities, old brands, intangible cultural heritage skills and distinctive food have attracted many audience to stop to watch, try and buy. The exhibition also highlights Deyang’s other urban cultural landmarks such as China Dried Noodle Village, China Mianzhu New Year’s painting Village, Sanxingdui and Long Men Zhi Dian International Tourism Resort.

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2024 “Future World” International Youth Art Exhibition Concludes Successfully in Tajikistan

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DUSHANBE, Tajikistan, June 29, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The 2024 “Future World” International Youth Art Exhibition was grandly inaugurated at the National Museum of Tajikistan in Dushanbe. This event, co-organized by the Committee on Youth and Sports Affairs of the Government of Tajikistan, the China Intercontinental Communication Center of the State Council Information Office of the People’s Republic of China, and the Media Center of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Tajikistan, was hosted by Yunnan SCO Culture and Sports Co., Ltd., Shanghai Art Fair International Exhibition Co., Ltd., and the “Future World” International Youth Art Exhibition Organizing Committee. It received support from the Embassy of Tajikistan in China, the Embassy of China in Tajikistan, and UNESCO. The aim was to build a bridge for youth exchanges among the member states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), promote understanding of cultural diversity, and foster deeper knowledge of China among global youth through artistic creation.

Distinguished guests, including Safarzoda Anvar from the Tajik government; Ji Shumin, Chinese Ambassador to Tajikistan; Gulahamzoda Zulfikar Ahmad, Chairman of the Committee on Youth and Sports Affairs of Tajikistan; Colleagues from the International Cooperation Bureau of the State Council Information Office of China; and Ahmedzoda Zolfia Kabir, Vice President of the Presidential Academy of Tajikistan, along with over 800 attendees, participated in the event.

Guests and young artists from China and Tajikistan took a group photo at the event
Guests and young artists from China and Tajikistan took a group photo at the event

“Future World” Painting Exhibition: Showcasing Youthful Creativity

Before the opening ceremony, guests and media representatives visited the “Future World” Painting Exhibition. This exhibition featured over 200 artworks by young artists from 26 countries, combining physical and digital formats. Sections included “SCO Family,” “River of Civilization,” “Lighting Up Technology,” “Endless Life,” and “Prosperous Olympics.” Young artists expressed their unique insights and creativity on topics like peace, ecology, development, and civilization, conveying a vision of a better future world. Tajikistani youth representatives guided the audience through the exhibition, sharing the stories and inspirations behind the artworks.

Opening Ceremony and Cultural Performance: A Celebration of Youth and Art

At the opening ceremony, Zafarsho Ibrohimzoda, Director of the Tajikistan National Museum, welcomed participants, highlighting that this was one of the most significant events ever held at the museum. Safarzoda Anvar emphasized the long-standing relationship between Tajikistan and China, noting that this event provides a solid foundation for further artistic and cultural exchanges. Gulahamzoda Zulfikar Ahmad spoke about the strong development of Tajik-Chinese relations over the past three decades, stating that youth are a great force for national progress, and the successful hosting of the “Future World” exhibition marks a further deepening of cooperation in youth development.

Ambassador Ji Shumin noted that continuous youth cultural exchanges are due to the high attention paid to youth work by the leaders and governments of both countries, based on a long history of friendly cooperation. He expressed hope that this generation of young people, living in the golden age of Tajik-Chinese relations, would contribute positively to the friendly cooperation between the two countries. Colleagues from the International Cooperation Bureau of the State Council Information Office of China, emphasized that youth are the witnesses and pioneers of the future. He highlighted that the “Future World” exhibition, held on the eve of the SCO Summit, serves as a bridge for communication and understanding among the youth of SCO member states, especially between China and Tajikistan.

Following the speeches, a vibrant cultural performance jointly created by Chinese and Tajikistani youth took center stage. Performances included Tajik traditional instrumental music, folk dances, and solo songs, showcasing Tajikistan’s rich cultural heritage. Chinese youth captivated the audience with a solo dance titled “Rain in the Bamboo Grove,” a martial arts performance “Dynamic Universe,” and a group dance “Twelve Stars of Chang’an,” earning enthusiastic applause from the audience. These performances highlighted the talents and creativity of the youth while expressing their aspirations and wishes for the future.

“Reading SCO, Cultural Creative Fair”: A Feast of Culture and Innovation

The “Reading SCO, Cultural Creative Fair” also provided a unique cultural experience for the audience. The book exhibition featured a variety of interesting and informative Chinese cultural books, interactive reading experiences, and new media products. Books such as “The Language of Music” introduced children to music, and “Xinjiang Travelogue” by Kyrgyz writer Aydarbek Salmanbetov attracted widespread attention with its trilingual presentation in Chinese, Russian, and Kyrgyz. The cultural and creative products at the fair, including themed blind boxes, fridge magnets, and copper mirrors, were highly popular among the youth, who enjoyed hands-on experiences like archaeology and mirror polishing.

The “Future World” International Youth Art Exhibition project was initiated by the China Intercontinental Communication Center in 2023. Since its inception, it has successfully held two exhibitions at UNESCO headquarters during the “Cinema Heritage” International Film Festival in November 2023 and the Global Symposium on the Concept of Intercultural Dialogue and Mutual Learning in April 2024. It has gradually become a high-level artistic event with extensive categories, recognized by youth, and having significant international influence.

The successful hosting of the 2024 “Future World” International Youth Art Exhibition not only showcased the artistic talents of youth but also deepened the understanding and friendship between the young people of China and Tajikistan, injecting new vitality into the cultural exchange of the SCO. In the future, “Future World” will continue to promote global youth cultural exchange and cooperation, allowing more young people to enhance dialogue through the language of art and contribute to building a peaceful, prosperous, and diverse future world.

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Here are the 10 most livable cities in the world—Europe dominates the list

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Vienna, Austria is the wrold’s most “liveable” city, according to the Economist Intelligence Unit’s 2024 Global Liveability Index.

Alexander Spatari | Moment | Getty Images

For the third year in a row, Vienna, the capital of Austria, is the world’s most livable city, according to the Economist Intelligence Unit.

The annual report, which aims to show how comfortable or livable a city is, examined 173 cities globally based on 30 indicators organized into five categories: stability, health care, culture and environment, education and infrastructure.

Boosted by its perfect scores for stability, health care, education and infrastructure, Vienna led this year’s list, followed closely by its Western European counterparts: Copenhagen, Denmark, in second place and Zurich, Switzerland, in third.

Vienna’s overall score took a minor hit in the culture and environment categories, “owing to a lack of major sporting events,” according to the EIU Global Liveability Index for 2024.

“EIU’s Liveability Index has risen fractionally over the past year,” the report said. “Declines in stability and infrastructure across a number of cities in advanced economies were offset by structural improvements in healthcare and education in several cities in developing markets.”

Here are the 10 most livable cities in the world, according to EIU.

  1. Vienna, Austria
  2. Copenhagen, Denmark
  3. Zurich, Switzerland
  4. Melbourne, Australia
  5. Calgary, Canada
  6. Geneva, Switzerland
  7. Sydney, Australia
  8. Vancouver, Canada
  9. Osaka, Japan
  10. Auckland, New Zealand

Four Asia-Pacific cities made it to this year’s top 10: Australian cities Melbourne and Sydney, as well as Osaka, Japan, and Auckland, New Zealand.

Melbourne, Sydney and Vancouver made the top 10 this year, but slipped “amid a significant shortfall in housing availability,” the EIU said. For the same reason, Toronto fell to 12th place this year, after ranking among the top 10 in the previous two years.

Western Europe was the best-performing region for livability globally, scoring an overall 92 out of 100. However, it has dropped since last year due to an increase in protests and crime, which weighed on the stability category, according to the report.

North America was the second best region, scoring an average of 90.5 out of 100, and ranking highest for education. The ongoing housing crisis in Canada has dragged down the region’s infrastructure scores, EIU said.

The 10 most livable cities in Asia

Asian cities continue to grow in their livability scores globally. Notably, Hong Kong recorded the biggest jump in this year’s study, moving up from 61st place to 50th in rank.

“Although not quite back to its pre-2019 scores, Hong Kong’s political landscape has [stabilized], with the risks of disruptions from mass protests now negligible,” according to the EIU.

“The national security law and local regulations introduced earlier in 2024 have restored political stability, but this change in score reflects a huge tradeoff to Hong Kong civil society, as evidenced by the city’s plunging score in our separately published Democracy Index,” the EIU said.

Asia’s 10 most livable cities:

  • Melbourne, Australia (4th globally)
  • Sydney, Australia (7th)
  • Osaka, Japan (9th tie)
  • Auckland, New Zealand (9th tie)
  • Adelaide, Australia (11th)
  • Tokyo, Japan (14th)
  • Perth, Australia (15th)
  • Brisbane, Australia (16th)
  • Wellington, New Zealand (20th)
  • Singapore, Singapore (26th)

Singapore, which ranked 26th in the world, also recorded a big jump, and was the second biggest mover upwards in the last 12 months. The tiny Southeast Asian nation scored a perfect 100 in the health-care category.

The Japanese cities of Osaka and Tokyo also made the top 10 list for Asia. “As the most populous among the top 20 cities, Tokyo deserves the additional credit of being able to maintain high standards of public service provision and security across an enormous population,” the EIU said.

Indian cities have declined in livability scores, due in part to the country’s poor air quality. “Infrastructure development is also a priority for the government, but given the country’s size and geography, it will take time to improve,” according to the EIU.

Vienna is the world's most livable city for the third straight year: EIU report

“Of the 58 Asian cities in the index, 16 have attained the highest level of liveability (score above 80),” said Barsali Bhattacharyya, deputy industry director at EIU.

“However, 11 Asian cities received scores below 60, at which point we define liveability as becoming seriously constrained, as these cities struggle with structural, political and climatic problems that are hard to overcome,” she said.

The stability category recorded the biggest decline out of all five categories this year, held back by geopolitical conflict, civil unrest, as well as the ongoing housing crisis and crime seen across many cities included in the survey, according to the report.

The least livable cities in the world

The bottom 10 are dominated by cities in Sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East and North Africa regions. Damascus, Syria and Tripoli, Libya rank as the two lowest cities for livability following the civil unrest that has torn down their economies, according to the report.

The city of Kyiv in Ukraine ranked as the 9th least livable city in the world, as the country continues to grapple with an active armed conflict following Russia’s invasion in February 2022.

Tel Aviv, the Israeli capital, was the biggest mover downwards this year, falling 20 places in rank to 112th globally, due to its ongoing war with Hamas since Oct. 7. More than 1,200 people on the Israeli side have been killed, while over 37,000 Palestinians are reported dead, according to the United Nations.

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O say can you see these ‘ethereal’ pool lights — down to just $15 a pop

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Add some atmospheric sparkle to your nighttime swim, just in time for America’s big birthday bash. These super-fun floating pool lights power up by day, light up by night, and are on mega-sale right now at Amazon’s July 4th sale. Each is about 14 inches in diameter and switches among four colors: green, red, white and blue. Flag colors, if you ignore the green. Gorgeous, and at this price, you’ll want to grab a couple of sets to really make your backyard glow.

Want even more hot holiday savings? Check out the best 4th of July sales overall.

Amazon

Inflatable, colorful and durable, these solar-powered lights add a decorative flourish to any outdoor space. 

Save $14 with coupon

$30 at Amazon

Why is this a good deal? 💰

Not only is this the lowest price on the web for these lights, but the per-unit price — $15 each — is cheaper than the competition’s too. With many reviewers marveling at how long these lights last, you’re looking at a paltry investment for years’ worth of beguiling, festive spectacle.

Why do I need these? 🤔

OK, “need” might be a pretty strong word, but wouldn’t it be cool to zhuzh up your summertime backyard ambiance? These gorgeous orbs can add a splash of fun to a poolside soiree or set the right mood for a more intimate get-together. Either way, you and your guest(s) will be entranced.

And they’re tougher than you might expect. They’re made of IP68 weather-resistant vinyl, which means they should be completely insulated against the elements. They’re also completely solar-powered, so you don’t have to worry about charging the batteries. Once charged, you’ll get about eight hours of light. They turn on and off automatically when night falls and day breaks, respectively, so they’ll conserve that energy for when they’re needed. There’s even a loop on them if you want to hang them from a tree. And since they’re inflatable, in colder months you can deflate them and store them away.

Nighttime at pool with glowing inflatable lights.

O say can you see red, white and blue? You will once you scoop up these color-changing orbs. (Amazon)

What reviewers say 💬

Over 1,900 happy swimmers have used these to light up the night.

Pros 👍

“These are really pretty at night,” sums up this shopper. “A bit ethereal. Haven’t had long enough to speak to longevity. Charged quickly. Nice bright light. The light from a string of other patio lights did not prevent them from coming on.”

This five-star fan was aglow: “I bought the first batch in 2021 and they are still beautiful. I bought some more this week — just can’t have enough. I love the larger size and the zero maintenance. I’ve had these in the pool 365 days a year. Still work like a charm. I love how they change colors.”

How’d you like to be a big hit at your next Fourth of July bash? “I just love these balls and get so many compliments!” reported this happy reviewer. “I’ve bought so many for myself, and now for gifts. People aren’t sure when they open them, but by the next evening my phone is blowing up on how cool they are and how and where can they buy more. Don’t pass on these; your yard will look amazing, and it’s so cool to see the color changes and how vibrant they are! They are great to float in the pool or hang from hooks, or even your trees. I can’t say enough about them.”

Cons 👎

Some reviewers — OK, one reviewer was not crazy about the random hues. “The color changes on its own. You don’t have control over the color sequence, but that’s really the only downside,” said one shopper.

Another suggested that, like many humans, these lights work best when given some space in the pool. “The only drawback is that they do tend to bunch together and are thus often the same color.”

Amazon

By day, let the sun’s rays do their work; by night, invite the gang over to a multicolored alfresco spectacle.

Save $14 with coupon

$30 at Amazon

The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.

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.)

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