A selection of three essential articles read aloud from the latest issue of The Economist. This week, MBS: despot in the desert, the era of big-tech exceptionalism may be over (49:05), and why it’s OK not to be perfect at work (55:30).
Transportation: Can E-Bikes Transform Cities?
Sales of electric bicycles, or e-bikes, as they’re better known, are booming. At the same time, innovations in battery technology have extended the range that an e-bike can travel. The FT’s Harry Dempsey explores the impact they’re having on commuting, deliveries, and the cities we live in.
Preview: The New Yorker Magazine – August 15, 2022
Gayle Kabaker’s “Summer Walk”
The artist on loosening up and the rewards of keeping a sketchbook.
By Françoise Mouly, Art by Gayle Kabaker (August 8, 2022)
Morning News: Senate Passes Health-Climate Bill, U.S. – Africa Relations
Senate Democrats pass major legislation addressing health care, taxes, and climate change. Antony Blinken is in South Africa to lay out a new strategy for US relations in the region. Results of a new poll find stark racial disparities when it comes to accessing healthcare.
Front Page: Wall Street Journal – July 8, 2022
Senate Passes Climate, Healthcare and Tax Bill
After more than 15 hours of amendments, Democrats passed the legislation, with Vice President Kamala Harris casting the tiebreaking vote. The measure now moves to the House.
Walking Tour: Cannes In Southeastern France
Cannes, a resort town on the French Riviera, is famed for its international film festival. Its Boulevard de la Croisette, curving along the coast, is lined with sandy beaches, upmarket boutiques and palatial hotels. It’s also home to the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, a modern building complete with red carpet and Allée des Étoiles – Cannes’ walk of fame.
Sunday Morning: Stories & Headlines From Zurich, London And Thailand
Monocle’s Tyler Brûlé and Emma Nelson, Eemeli Isoaho and Chandra Kurz cover the weekend’s biggest talking points. Plus: We hear from our friends and colleagues in England, Estonia and Thailand.
Aerial Views: Carinthia In Southern Austria (4K)
Carinthia is a southern Austrian region in the eastern Alps that encompasses Austria’s highest mountain, Grossglockner. It’s characterized by alpine lakes and mountains, as well as medieval buildings such as Hochosterwitz Castle. The region’s capital of Klagenfurt sits on the shores of huge Lake Wörthersee, surrounded by vineyards. Its central Alter Platz (Old Square) has many Renaissance buildings.
Views: Boat Tour On The Canals Of Bruges, Belgium
Bruges, the capital of West Flanders in northwest Belgium, is distinguished by its canals, cobbled streets and medieval buildings. Its port, Zeebrugge, is an important center for fishing and European trade. In the city center’s Burg square, the 14th-century Stadhuis (City Hall) has an ornate carved ceiling. Nearby, Markt square features a 13th-century belfry with a 47-bell carillon and 83m tower with panoramic views.
The canals have for centuries been the veins of the city, winding through Bruges and treating you to another magnificent view around every bend. Take a stroll or a boat trip and discover secret gardens, romantic bridges and medieval facades reflected in the water. Veiled in mist, a family of swans floating past: time stands still on the canals.
Travel Tour: Top Places To Visit In Bavaria, Germany
Bavaria is the German state most popular among tourists. No wonder. Here you can find fairytale castles like Neuschwanstein, huge mountains, clear lakes, baroque churches, and timber-framed villages. Plus… fantastic beer! We will show you what you shouldn’t miss in Bavaria: the three most popular regions and the three most visited Bavarian cities and their highlights. Spoiler alert! Munich is one of them. But what are the other two cities in the ranking?
Boomers Daily 