Vietnam Surpasses Thailand as the Top Destination for Chinese Tourists
Fundacion Rapala – Thailand, once the top choice for Chinese tourists, is now losing ground. Many travelers, like Hu Jia from Sichuan, have chosen Vietnam instead of Thailand’s iconic beaches and ornate temples. Concerns about safety in Thailand have fueled this shift, leading Hu and her family to book a two-week journey across Vietnam. Personal
Luxembourg Joins France and Others in Plan to Recognize Palestine at UN Assembly
Fundacion Rapala – Luxembourg will move forward with the recognition of Palestine. Prime Minister Luc Frieden and Foreign Minister Xavier Bettel told a parliamentary committee that their government plans to confirm the decision during the upcoming United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. This step aligns Luxembourg with other European countries that support Palestinian
Cycling While Using a Phone in Japan Could Cost You a Fine of Rp1.2 Million
Fundacion Rapala – Starting April 2026, Japan will enforce a new traffic penalty system for cyclists. Under this regulation, minor traffic violations committed by cyclists will no longer receive a simple warning. Instead, they will be penalized through a blue ticket system, with fines ranging from 3,000 to 12,000 yen (approximately Rp310,000 to Rp1.2 million).
Heavy Rainfall Hits Bali: Tourists Urged to Follow Travel Guidelines
Fundacion Rapala – Heavy rains recently struck Bali, especially around Denpasar and nearby districts, leading to significant flooding. The floods affected areas such as Badung, Gianyar, Jembrana, Tabanan, and Karangasem. Rising water levels damaged homes and disrupted daily life. Local authorities responded with emergency measures to protect residents and minimize damage. Tourism Officials Remind Visitors
Apple Launches iPhone 17 and iPhone Air with Slim Design and Smart Features
Fundacion Rapala – Apple has launched its new flagship smartphones: the iPhone 17 and iPhone Air. The announcement took place on September 9, 2025. iPhone Air replaces the Plus model and now holds the record as the thinnest iPhone ever, measuring just 5.6 mm. Apple says iPhone Air combines pro-level performance with a slim, elegant build.
France Plunges into Crisis as Prime Minister Francois Bayrou Resigns
Fundacion Rapala – French Prime Minister Francois Bayrou officially stepped down after losing a no-confidence vote in parliament on Monday (September 8). A total of 364 lawmakers voted against him, while 194 offered support. The threshold to pass the motion was 280, far below the rejection votes cast. Bayrou’s Final Remarks Before the Vote Before
North Korea’s Luxury Resort Opens for Tourism but Struggles to Attract Visitors
Fundacion Rapala – On July 1, 2025, North Korea launched the Wonsan Kalma luxury resort on its east coast. Officials promoted it as a symbol of modern development and a new destination for international tourism. The resort features pastel-colored hotels, beachfront promenades, and a large water park, all designed to host thousands of guests. A
Aryna Sabalenka Secures Back-to-Back US Open Title in 2025
Fundacion Rapala – Aryna Sabalenka once again demonstrated her power and consistency on the world tennis stage. On Sunday (September 7, 2025), the Belarusian successfully defended her US Open crown after defeating home favorite Amanda Anisimova in straight sets, 6-3, 7-6 (3). With this result, Sabalenka confirmed her position among the elite players of her
Roblox to Tighten Age Verification System for Players This Year
Fundacion Rapala – Roblox has announced plans to introduce a stricter age verification system by the end of 2025. The move comes after the platform faced heavy criticism for not providing enough protection for its young users, who make up a large portion of its player base. Statement from Roblox Security Chief Matt Kaufman, Roblox’s
26 Nations Ready to Deploy ‘Peacekeeping Forces’ to Ukraine After Potential Deal with Russia
Fundacion Rapala -A total of 26 countries have pledged to send troops to Ukraine once a peace deal or ceasefire with Russia is achieved. French President Emmanuel Macron said the mission’s goal is to prevent Russia from launching fresh attacks against Ukraine. Details of the Peacekeeping Mission Speaking in Paris beside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky,