The article discusses the severe poverty and lack of basic amenities such as running water in Moldova, Europe's poorest country according to the UN's Human Development Index. It highlights the hardships faced by villagers in Grozesti, where water from wells is the only source and is contaminated with iron and fluoride, leading to health issues. The article mentions a project funded by Austrian and Swiss aid to bring running water to Grozesti. It also covers the widespread emigration of Moldova's working-age population, the social problems arising from it, and efforts by Gabrielle Damian's institute to support vocational education. The recent EU Association Agreement signed by Moldova is seen as a potential lifeline for economic development and modernization. Despite the challenges, some young Moldovans, like radio journalist Daniel Voda, are committed to staying and improving their country's situation.

A three-day youth climate conference, the Local Conference of Youth (LCOY), is being held in Vienna to gather climate action ideas from young people and present them at the COP27 in Egypt. The conference, organized by groups like CliMates, aims to empower youth aged 14 to 30 through workshops and idea exchanges. Austrian youth delegates will represent the country's youth at COP27, aiming to ensure their voices are heard on an international stage. Despite past frustrations with youth delegates being ignored at climate conferences, there is hope for more engagement at local and national levels. The event also offers networking, empowerment, and lighter moments like a pub quiz. The LCOY is seen as complementary to more direct activism like Fridays For Future, providing different avenues for climate action.

The Vienna Dirt Battle, held at the Vienna Bike Festival, showcased the joy and freedom of cycling despite challenging weather conditions. Elite dirt jumpers like Lukas Huppert and Cameron Crozier performed spectacular tricks, emphasizing the fun and inclusive nature of the sport. The event highlighted the importance of cycling as a healthy and environmentally friendly activity, advocating for better infrastructure to make cycling a more attractive option for everyone. Organizer Andi Brewi expressed the privilege of introducing the sport to new audiences, hoping to inspire more people to take up cycling.

The article discusses various lifestyle and cultural aspects of living in Vienna, including the city's vegan food options, its historical love affair with coffee, the growing range of sophisticated non-alcoholic beverages, and the adaptation of Austrian vintners to modern sales tactics during the COVID-19 pandemic. It also touches on the fun of becoming a self-taught wine writer and explores the meaning and connections of Viennese slang terms.

Explores various activities and culinary experiences in Vienna, including vegan options, the Kaffeemuseum, and the growing trend of sophisticated non-alcoholic beverages. Highlights the resilience of Austrian vintners adapting to modern sales tactics post-COVID-19 and delves into Viennese slang and cultural nuances.

Explores various aspects of living in Vienna, including vegan food options, the city's coffee culture, the rise of non-alcoholic beverages, and the impact of COVID-19 on Austrian vintners. It also delves into Viennese slang and cultural nuances.

The article explores various winter sports alternatives to skiing, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. It highlights fat biking as a growing niche sport in Austria, supported by Michael Stix, and discusses the potential for sustainable tourism in light of climate change. The author shares personal experiences and observations, emphasizing the importance of diversification in winter tourism. The article also touches on the positive impact of organizations like Protect Our Winters in promoting climate action.

Two forest rangers, Liviu Pop and Raducu Gorcioaia, were recently murdered in Romania amid escalating violence over illegal logging in the country's virgin forests. Gabriel Paun, head of the environmental group Agent Green, expressed outrage over the killings and the impunity of the perpetrators, criticizing the Romanian authorities for their inaction. Despite the dangers, Paun and his team continue to monitor the forests, using technology like solar-powered phones to detect illegal activity. Conservationist Magor Csibi highlighted the ecological importance of virgin forests, which are being destroyed at an alarming rate, with illegal logging outpacing legal cuts. Gabriel Paun has called on the designated head of government, Ludovic Orban, to take decisive action against the 'forest mafia' and protect what remains of Europe's last great virgin forests.

Set in snowy December 1599 in Prague, 'Prague Nights' by Benjamin Black (pseudonym of John Banville) is a historical thriller that follows Christian Stern, a young scholar tasked with solving the murder of the emperor's mistress amidst court intrigues and rivalries. The novel, rich in atmosphere and historical detail, features a colorful cast of characters and explores themes of vanity, tolerance, and fanaticism, foreshadowing the Thirty Years War. The narrative is recounted by an older, more reflective Stern, adding depth to the story's historical context.

Nearly three decades after the Velvet Revolution, the legacy of communism continues to influence Czech politics. The new Prime Minister, Andrej Babiš, has controversially sought support from Communist Party MPs, and his past as an informer for the secret police has been scrutinized. Protests reminiscent of the Velvet Revolution have occurred, opposing figures like Zdeněk Ondráček, a former riot squad officer. The Czech Republic's growth as one of the fastest economies in the EU contrasts with the historical economic suppression under communism. The 50th anniversary of the Prague Spring highlights a lack of historical education on the period, despite its significance in shaping Czech society and its spirit of protest.

The Hahnenkamm Race at Kitzbühel is renowned for its challenging and dangerous downhill ski course, attracting thousands of fans and top skiers from around the world. The race is a significant part of Austrian sporting culture, comparable to major events like Wimbledon or the Super Bowl. Despite the thrill and prestige, the race has seen numerous accidents, raising concerns about safety. Measures have been implemented to enhance skier safety, but the inherent risks remain. The article highlights the experiences of various skiers, including those who have suffered severe injuries, and the enduring allure of the race.

The Hobby Tennis Tour (HTT) in Austria offers amateur tennis players a competitive experience similar to the professional ATP tour, with over 100 tournaments from January to November. Organized by Claus Lippert, the HTT accommodates players' schedules and has grown to over 1,000 participants. The tour features tiered entry systems and Grand Slams on different surfaces, mirroring the ATP's structure. Players like Marcus Schischlik and Markus Göbel appreciate the HTT for the increased number of competitive matches and the performance-oriented atmosphere. Clubs hosting the tournaments benefit from the influx of players, and the HTT has seen increased popularity since the internet's rise. The HTT provides an opportunity for players to live out their tennis dreams and improve their skills, with the potential for some to follow in the footsteps of Austrian tennis stars like Thomas Muster and Dominic Thiem.

Galle Cricket Club, set against the Indian Ocean and the fortified old city, is a historic and picturesque cricket ground in Sri Lanka. The city of Galle is known for its passion for cricket, with informal matches played by schoolboys against the backdrop of the fort. The ground has witnessed cricketing milestones, such as Muttiah Muralitharan's 400th and 800th wickets, and Shane Warne's 500th wicket. It also symbolizes resilience after serving as a refuge following the devastating 2004 tsunami. The author describes attending a local match, the 'Lovers' Quarrel' between Richmond College and Mahinda College, and the vibrant cricket culture, including the camaraderie and festivities surrounding the game.