World
7 important things to know if you ever travel solo
Travelling solo can be an exciting experience. It gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, try new things, and grow as a person.
However, for those new to solo travel, it can also feel a little scary or overwhelming. The thought of navigating unfamiliar places, managing everything on your own, and being alone in a new environment might bring some nerves.
But, with the right mindset and preparation, solo travel can be one of the most fulfilling adventures you’ll ever have. Here are seven important things you should know if you ever plan to travel solo:
1. Safety first
When you’re travelling solo, it’s important to prioritise your safety. This means doing your research before you go. Learn about the areas you’ll be visiting and avoid neighbourhoods that are known for being unsafe. Always let someone know where you’re going, whether it’s a friend or family member back home or the staff at your accommodation. Also, keep a copy of your important documents, like your passport, in a safe place and carry only what you need when you’re out and about.
2. Stay connected
Staying connected with loved ones back home is key when you’re travelling solo. Make sure you have a reliable way to contact people, whether it’s through phone, messaging apps, or email.
You can also share your travel itinerary with someone close to you, so they know where you’ll be at different times. Having a way to stay in touch not only provides peace of mind for you but also for those who care about your well-being.
3. Pack light but smart
When you’re travelling alone, packing light is essential. You’ll be the one responsible for carrying your luggage, so the lighter, the better. However, make sure to pack smart. Bring the essentials, like comfortable clothing, a basic first aid kit, and any medications you might need. Don’t forget to pack a few items that will help you feel secure, such as a travel lock or a money belt to keep your belongings safe.
4. Trust your instincts
One of the most important skills you can develop while travelling solo is learning to trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to leave the situation or change your plans. Whether it’s an uncomfortable conversation or a strange feeling about your surroundings, always listen to your gut. Solo travel teaches you to rely on yourself, and trusting your instincts is a big part of staying safe and confident on the road.
5. Be open to new experiences
Travelling solo offers a unique opportunity to push yourself out of your comfort zone. Don’t be afraid to try new things—whether it’s tasting new foods, taking a local tour, or striking up a conversation with someone new.
Being open to new experiences is what makes solo travel so exciting, and it can lead to incredible memories and personal growth.
6. Plan but stay flexible
It’s important to have a plan when you’re travelling solo, but it’s equally important to stay flexible. Having a rough itinerary helps keep you organised, but sometimes the best travel experiences come from being open to unexpected opportunities. If you meet new friends along the way or discover a place you want to explore longer, don’t be afraid to change your plans.
7. Enjoy your own company
One of the biggest joys of solo travel is learning to enjoy your own company. Travelling alone gives you the chance to reflect, relax, and embrace your independence.
Whether you’re sitting at a café watching the world go by or exploring a new city, savour the time you have to yourself. Solo travel is all about discovering not just the world around you, but also discovering more about yourself.
Education
Canada now permits international students to work 24 hours
Canada has increased the permissible work hours for eligible international students during academic terms from 20 to 24 hours per week.
This adjustment aims to provide greater opportunities for students to gain work experience while maintaining their focus on academics.
Marc Miller, Canada’s Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Minister, stressed the intent behind this policy change, saying, “This change will give students more flexibility to manage their time and gain practical experience.”
The decision builds on remarks Miller made in October 2022 when he emphasized the importance of work experience for international students.
At the time, he stated: “With the economy growing at a faster rate than employers can hire new workers, Canada needs to look at every option so that we have the skills and workforce needed to fuel our growth.
“Immigration will be crucial to addressing our labour shortage. By allowing international students to work more while they study, we can help ease pressing needs in many sectors across the country, while providing more opportunities for international students to gain valuable Canadian work experience and continue contributing to our short-term recovery and long-term prosperity.”
Key Changes to the International Student Program
Full-Time Work During Academic Breaks
International students can now work full-time during designated academic breaks, such as summer and winter holidays. These periods allow students to increase their earnings without interfering with class schedules, bolstering their financial stability while continuing their education.
The updated regulations permit students to work up to 24 hours per week during academic terms. This increase offers greater employment opportunities while ensuring students can maintain a sustainable study schedule.
Enhanced Reporting by Institutions
Designated Educational Institutions (DLIs) are now required to submit reports twice yearly to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). These reports will confirm students’ enrollment status and academic progress, ensuring compliance with study permit requirements and upholding the integrity of the International Student Program.
Approval for Institution Transfers
Under the new rules, international students must obtain approval before transferring to a different DLI. This requirement ensures adherence to permit conditions and maintains academic standards across Canada’s institutions.
Special Provisions for Quebec Students
In Quebec, eligible international students can work off-campus without a separate work permit, provided they meet specific criteria. Students must be enrolled full-time in post-secondary, vocational, or professional training programs, or vocational training at the secondary level. These courses must be at least six months long and lead to a recognized degree, diploma, or certificate.
By introducing these measures, Canada aims to enhance opportunities for international students while addressing labour shortages in key sectors, ensuring a balance between work experience and academic success.
World
Trump appoints Elon Musk to lead department of government efficiency
US President-Elect Donald Trump has appointed Elon Musk, chief executive officer (CEO) of Tesla and SpaceX, to lead a soon-to-be-established Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
Musk, owner of X, the microblogging platform previously known as Twitter, was an avid supporter of Trump during the electioneering leading up to the November 5 presidential election.
The former president defeated Vice-President Kamala Harris after securing more than 270 of the electoral college votes required to win the poll.
A statement on Tuesday said Musk would run DOGE alongside Vivek Ramaswamy, a politician and entrepreneur.
It said the duo “will pave the way for my Administration to dismantle Government Bureaucracy, slash excess regulations, cut wasteful expenditures, and restructure Federal Agencies Essential to the ‘Save America’ Movement’.
“I look forward to Elon and Vivek making changes to the Federal Bureaucracy with an eye on efficiency and, at the same time, making life better for all Americans,” the statement quoted the president-elect as saying.
“Importantly, we will drive out the massive waste and fraud which exists throughout our annual $6.5 Trillion Dollars of Government Spending.”
Trump will take office for a second and final term on January 25, 2025.
World
French newspapers sue X for using content without paying
Major French news organisations say they are suing X, a micro-blogging platform, for allegedly using their content without paying.
According to Reuters, the newspapers, which are Le Monde, Le Figaro and Le Parisien, announced in a statement on Tuesday.
The media platforms said they were due payment under their ancillary rights, which allow payment to news outlets by digital platforms, for the distribution of their content.
They said X, formerly known as Twitter, and owned by billionaire Elon Musk, has never agreed to open negotiations with French news publishers, unlike Alphabet Inc, Google and Meta Platforms Inc.
The publication also said the media organisations claimed that X has not complied with an order issued by the Paris Court of Justice in May to release information required to calculate the amount owed.
“The revenue from these rights, with the investment that it would enable its beneficiaries to make, is a boost to the plurality, independence and quality of the media, which are essential for freedom of expression and the right to information in our democratic society,” the newspapers said.
A spokesperson for the Paris tribunal also confirmed the case to Reuters and said a hearing has been scheduled for May 15, 2025.
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