News

Ticker’s Top Tips of travelling these holidays

Published

4 years ago

November 26, 2021

At last, the world is beginning to open up again, and what perfect timing for travellers to finally reunite with loved ones abroad and celebrate the holidays this year

But with borders opening up and eager travellers ever so keen to jump on a plane, there’s a catch with the new ways of travelling as the COVID-19 pandemic changed how we travel to be unlike how it once was.

So here are some hot tips to make sure you can make the most of your upcoming travel plans in today’s world.

Tip 1: Do Your Research

There was a time when researching just meant finding the best attractions and places to dine and stay, but the pandemic has added additional considerations.

As everywhere deals with their own version of the pandemic, it’s important to be aware of the COVID situation in both your current location and your desired destination.

This means checking the latest local and foreign government and health advice to find out what rules and restrictions apply to you.

Tip 2: The Importance of COVID Travel Insurance

Booking travel insurance is perhaps more important than ever.

Finding the right insurance that considers covid-related expenses will give you peace of mind when travelling to ensure that you don’t get stranded or without medical assistance should anything covid related happen to you abroad.

Young woman at the airport checking for the flight

Tip 3: Arrive Early at the Airport

If you’re planning on travelling by air, try to arrive early!

Airports and airlines in the US alone reported last Friday to be their busiest day since the pandemic as millions of Americans rush to see their loved ones for Thanksgiving.

This is all despite a major cut in staff during the pandemic which saw around 50% of employees

This proves that it’s unlikely you’ll be the only one trying to get back home to your loved ones these holidays, so expect long lines and long times.

Some say 2 and a half hours is the new ideal standard to make sure you end up on your flight, leaving enough time for you to check in and wait in likely lengthy lines.

Tip 4: Plan your driving routes

With everyone escaping to see their loved ones for the holidays it’s not just the airports that will be busy, but the roads too!

Considering traffic is expected to be 40% higher these holidays, try to plan your trip wisely to avoid delays and jams.

Avoiding peak travel times will ensure you get to your loved ones in time for your holiday celebrations!

News

Oil prices surge as U.S.-Iran tensions escalate

Published

6 hours ago

February 5, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Crude oil prices jumped over 3% on Wednesday as U.S.-Iran nuclear talks showed signs of faltering, pushing WTI futures above $65 per barrel. Axios reported disagreements over the venue and scope of Friday’s talks, while President Trump warned Iran’s supreme leader to “be very worried,” stoking fears of military escalation.

Tensions in the Persian Gulf added to the volatility. A U.S. F-35C shot down an Iranian drone near the USS Abraham Lincoln, and Iranian vessels threatened a U.S.-flagged tanker in the Strait of Hormuz. The USS McFaul escorted the tanker to safety, highlighting the region’s fragile oil supply routes.

Despite the clashes, nuclear talks will go ahead on Friday in Oman, but uncertainty continues to drive oil market volatility, with traders closely watching both diplomatic and military developments.

#OilPrices #IranUS #NuclearTalks #PersianGulf #WTI #EnergyMarket #Geopolitics #OilSupply

News

Washington Post layoffs: Hundreds of journalists cut as Bezos faces criticism

Published

8 hours ago

February 5, 2026

Harvey Vargas

The Washington Post has laid off hundreds of employees, marking what former executive editor Martin Baron calls “one of the darkest days” in the paper’s history. Approximately one-third of the newsroom staff were affected, as the company undertakes a so-called “strategic reset” to compete in a crowded media landscape.

The cuts hit key areas, including the sports desk, local coverage, international reporting, the books desk, and the flagship daily news podcast. Editor-in-Chief Matt Murray said the changes aim to prioritise national security, politics, science, health, technology, climate, and business coverage while positioning the Post for the future.

Critics have called out owner Jeff Bezos for his silence during the layoffs and alleged efforts to influence the paper’s political stance. Former editor Baron warned that the newspaper’s ambitions would be sharply diminished and its credibility could suffer.

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News

Amazon launches AI tools to change film and television production

Amazon MGM Studios tests AI to streamline production, reduce costs, enhancing but not replacing human creativity, says AI Studio team.

Published

13 hours ago

February 5, 2026

Harvey Vargas

Amazon MGM Studios tests AI to streamline production, reduce costs, enhancing but not replacing human creativity, says AI Studio team.

Amazon MGM Studios is stepping into the future of entertainment by developing artificial intelligence tools designed to reduce production costs and streamline filmmaking processes. This closed beta, launching in March, will let industry partners test how AI can enhance creativity and efficiency on set.

Amy Cheng, leading the AI Studio team, emphasises that while AI can accelerate workflows, it will never replace the unique contributions of human creativity. The initiative represents Amazon’s push to innovate in content creation while maintaining the art of storytelling.

The use of AI in Hollywood is expanding rapidly, sparking discussions about its impact on jobs and the future of the industry. As studios explore automation, the balance between efficiency and human artistry remains a central concern.

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