The article explores the hidden world of Paris' servants' quarters, now inhabited by students, artists, and immigrants who cannot afford to live elsewhere. It delves into the author's personal experiences living in a small attic room in a wealthy neighborhood, highlighting the social divide and the sense of community among the attic-dwellers. The narrative underscores the impact of gentrification on these unique living spaces and the potential loss of Paris' bohemian spirit as property developers transform these quarters into trendy apartments.

Eloise Stark, a DPhil student in psychiatry at the University of Oxford, shares her personal journey of being diagnosed with autism at 27 and the challenges she faced growing up. She discusses her intense special interests, struggles with social rules and bullying during her teenage years, and her initial difficulty with the social aspects of university life. After a traumatic event and a recurrence of mental health issues, she was diagnosed with autism, which led to a path of self-discovery and acceptance. Eloise now embraces her identity, pursues her PhD with passion, and aims to use her experiences to help others with autism.

Egypt offers a range of luxury hotels that cater to different preferences, from historical landmarks to beach resorts. The Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Hotel in Aswan is highlighted as the best overall, known for its stunning views and historical significance. Other top choices include the Sofitel Winter Palace in Luxor for history lovers, the Oberoi Beach Resort Sahl Hasheesh in Hurghada for luxury, and the Steigenberger Cecil Hotel in Alexandria for a city break. Le Méridien Pyramids Hotel & Spa offers unparalleled views of the Pyramids of Giza, while the Steigenberger Alcazar in Sharm El Sheikh is ideal for beach lovers. Each hotel is praised for its unique features, amenities, and contributions to a luxurious travel experience in Egypt.

Tuscany, Italy, is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, rich culture, and luxurious accommodations. The article highlights the top 11 hotels in the region, each offering unique experiences ranging from historical charm and modern luxury to serene countryside retreats and beachfront escapes. COMO Castello Del Nero is praised as the best overall hotel, offering historical charm and modern amenities. Other notable mentions include Castello di Vicarello for its countryside appeal, Relais & Chateaux – Il Falconiere for food enthusiasts, and Portrait Firenze for city breaks. Each hotel is celebrated for its unique features, luxurious amenities, and immersive experiences, ensuring a memorable stay in Tuscany.

The article lists the top nine hotels on Waikiki Beach, highlighting their unique features and amenities. Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach is noted as the best overall, with a stunning infinity pool and varied dining options. Other hotels mentioned include Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach, ideal for families; Moana Surfrider, a Westin Resort & Spa, known for its historic significance; and Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa, which offers luxurious amenities. The article provides insights into what to consider when choosing a hotel, such as location, amenities, activities, budget, and guest reviews.

Kauai offers a variety of romantic hotels perfect for couples seeking luxury, adventure, relaxation, or indulgence. The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort stands out as the best overall, with its lush gardens and extensive amenities. Other notable hotels include The Royal Sonesta Kaua’i Resort Lihue for its pool, 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay for wellness, and The Lodge at Kukui’ula for peace and seclusion. Each hotel provides unique features, from stunning views at The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas to beachside activities at Koa Kea Resort on Poipu Beach. Kauai's diverse regions offer different experiences, making it an ideal destination for a romantic getaway.

For the first time in over 1,250 years, women were allowed to participate in Hadaka Matsuri, a significant Shinto festival in Inazawa, Japan. The inclusion of women, who carried offerings to the shrine while fully dressed, comes not from a push for gender equality but as a response to Japan's demographic crisis threatening the continuation of traditional festivals. Japan faces a 'festival crisis' due to an aging population and declining birth rates, with many festivals being suspended or abolished. The article discusses the cultural importance of these festivals, Japan's low ranking in the World Economic Forum's 2023 Gender Gap Report, and the government's efforts to combat depopulation. Local attitudes towards women's participation are mixed, with some skepticism from male participants. The article also highlights the emotional impact on women like Atsuko Tamakoshi, who campaigned for inclusion, and the broader implications for Japanese society's need to adapt to survive.

The article presents a curated list of the 12 best boutique hotels in Rome, highlighting their unique features, amenities, and locations. It emphasizes the personalized service, intimate atmosphere, and stylish decor that distinguish these hotels from larger chains. The piece also provides a buyer's guide for choosing the right boutique hotel, considering factors such as location, design, amenities, budget, and guest reviews. The Residenza Venti Settembre is singled out as the top choice for its luxurious spa and lavish interiors, while other hotels are praised for their historical significance, artful decor, and modern comforts.

Scotland offers a unique travel experience with its numerous castle hotels, each providing a blend of historical charm and modern luxury. The top six castle hotels include Inverlochy Castle Hotel, Neidpath Castle, Tulloch Castle, Glenapp Castle, Stonefield Castle Hotel, and Dalhousie Castle Hotel. These hotels cater to various preferences, from budget-friendly options to romantic getaways and luxurious stays. Key features include historical significance, beautiful landscapes, gourmet dining, and a range of activities such as falconry, archery, and spa treatments. Each castle hotel offers a unique and memorable experience, making them a must-visit for travelers.

The article critiques the cultural impact of television judges like Paul Hollywood, Simon Cowell, and Gordon Ramsay, suggesting they play on 'daddy issues' by being authoritative and emotionally unavailable. It argues that this dynamic reinforces a cultural norm where the approval of such male figures is overly valued. The piece calls for more recognition of female judges like Prue Leith and questions the entertainment value derived from the harsh criticism and rare approval offered by male judges on shows like The Great British Bake-Off.

The article discusses how certain everyday designs, such as sunglasses, are inherently racist because they are created with a bias towards white people. It argues that privilege often makes these biases invisible to those who benefit from them, highlighting the systemic nature of oppression.

Brazil's supreme court has ruled that homophobic slurs are punishable by up to five years in prison, a decision that has been welcomed by activists in a country where the LGBTQIA+ community faces significant violence.

Outrage and sadness have swept over Bosnia and Herzegovina after a woman was brutally murdered by her estranged partner, who live-streamed the killing on Instagram. The crime has raised questions about the platform’s moderation policies.

The text emphasizes that feminism is a full-time commitment, highlighting the pervasive and subtle ways patriarchy manifests and sustains itself in society.

Recent months have seen a series of Quran burnings in Denmark and Sweden, sparking outrage in Muslim countries and igniting debates on free speech versus hate speech. These acts, primarily organized by far-right nationalist groups, have raised significant security concerns. Incidents include a protest near the Swedish parliament and a Quran burning by the 'Danish Patriots' in front of the Iraqi embassy in Copenhagen.

The article discusses the challenges women face in addressing sexism in everyday life, highlighting the example of a man named Jay who considers himself a feminist but may not fully understand the nuances of his actions.

Passive income offers a way to generate extra money with some initial effort and planning. This article provides an overview of passive income, its workings, and strategies to create passive income streams, highlighting the financial benefits it can provide.

Digital nomadism is attracting individuals with neurodivergent conditions such as ADHD, offering a lifestyle that suits their need for constant change and stimulation. Hannah Dixon and Kit Whelan, both digital nomads, share how this way of life has been freeing and invigorating, especially for those who struggle with the structure of a traditional 9-to-5 job. Psychologist Sonia Jaeger notes that nomadic living can act as 'self-medication' for people with ADHD, providing the flexibility and adventure that align with their traits. While there is no current data on the rates of neurodivergence among digital nomads, efforts are being made to understand this community better.

French bread, particularly the iconic baguette, is celebrated for its sensory appeal and quality. Damien Dedun, a top baker in France, emphasizes the importance of appearance, aroma, and fermentation in making good bread. Despite the simplicity of ingredients, the process is labor-intensive, with each batch taking five hours. The tradition of bread-making in France is at risk due to competition from cheaper supermarkets, but a new generation of bakers is reviving natural leavening methods. To find the best bread in Paris, Dedun advises trusting local reviews and looking for busy bakeries. His award-winning baguette can be found at Bakery Frédéric Comyn in Paris.

Paris offers a variety of provocative and sensual cabaret shows, including the world-famous Le Moulin Rouge, the cheeky Crazy Horse, the Vegas-style Lido, the boundary-pushing Le Paradis Latin, the vintage-inspired La Nouvelle Seine, and the drag brunch at Acqua e Farina. Additionally, there are erotic performances at Théâtre ChoChotte, the fantasy-driven Sweet Paradise, and the sexy shower shows at Le Raidd. These shows feature a mix of nudity, storytelling, acrobatics, and audience interaction, with some venues offering experiences tailored to couples and swingers.

The article discusses the creation of a new 'feminist wiki' by TERFs (Trans-Exclusionary Radical Feminists), initially perceived as a resource for feminist research but revealed to be another platform for exclusionary views.

The author shares personal experiences and insights gained from practicing biphasic sleeping for five years, which involved working an early morning shift starting at 4:30 am. The narrative focuses on the challenges and benefits of this sleep pattern.

Four French porn actors were charged with rape following multiple allegations of abuse on both amateur and professional porn film sets. This marks the first instance of porn actors in France facing such charges, highlighting ongoing issues within the porn industry.

Jake Davison, a 22-year-old, killed five people, including a three-year-old girl and his own mother, in Plymouth, England, before taking his own life. Initial reports described the incident as domestic, but further investigations revealed Davison's deep involvement in the incel community, highlighting the growing threat posed by such extremist groups.

Provides advice on how to respond to sexual harassment and microaggressions, emphasizing the importance of addressing inappropriate comments and jokes. Encourages readers to find their voice and respond assertively to such situations.

Oldyssey, a French non-governmental organization, has modernized the concept of pen pals by pairing language learners with elderly individuals in France for conversations over Skype. The program, known as 'Share Ami', aims to improve language skills and address loneliness among seniors. Participants, such as Warwick University student Millie Jacoby and Oxford University student Charlotte Wilson, have reported positive experiences and language improvement. The organization has created nearly 90 pairings, with a waiting list of students. The initiative also responds to the increased isolation of the elderly, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, by fostering long-distance friendships.

Explores the remnants of the feminist blogosphere, focusing on the presence of transphobic content and communities within it. Highlights the persistence of these views and their impact on internet culture.

Eloise Stark, a DPhil student in psychiatry at the University of Oxford, shares her personal journey of being diagnosed with autism at the age of 27. She reflects on her childhood, her struggles with social interactions, and the bullying she faced. Stark discusses how her special interests, such as literature and psychology, have helped her navigate the complexities of life. She recounts a traumatic attack that exacerbated her mental health issues but ultimately led to her autism diagnosis. Stark emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and being authentic, expressing pride in her autistic identity and her determination to help others with similar experiences.

The narrative explores the societal pressures and warnings women face when traveling alone, particularly in remote and challenging environments like the Himalayas. It highlights the beauty and allure of the hiking route while addressing the underlying fears and concerns imposed by others.

In India's general elections, women voters are poised to play a decisive role, with their turnout expected to surpass that of men for the first time. Naveen Patnaik, the incumbent Chief Minister of Odisha, is popular among women for his policies promoting their empowerment and rural development. The increasing political engagement of women is attributed to improved social status and a 1993 law reserving village governance positions for women. While women's votes are influential, the lack of female candidates and genuine change in daily inequalities remains a concern. Some women, like 23-year-old student Kalpina, express disillusionment with politics' ability to address issues like safety and harassment.

Oxfordshire County Council has reversed its decision to cut funding to the Oxfordshire Mental Health Partnership by £1.6 million, a move welcomed by individuals with serious mental illnesses, including the author, Eloise Stark. Stark shares her personal experiences with mental health services, highlighting the essential support provided by organizations like Restore and the Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust. Despite the reversal, funding challenges persist, and Stark emphasizes the importance of investing in mental health services to prevent serious conditions and build a resilient, happy society.

Eloise Stark, a DPhil candidate in Psychiatry at Somerville College, Oxford University, expresses relief over Oxfordshire County Council's reversal of a decision to cut funding to the Oxfordshire Mental Health Partnership by £1.6 million. Stark shares personal experiences with mental health services, emphasizing the importance of continued and increased funding for mental health organizations like Restore and the Oxfordshire Recovery College. Stark argues that cuts would lead to negative consequences such as increased healthcare costs and advocates for investment in mental health services to build a resilient, happy society.

Oxfordshire County Council's reversal of a decision to cut £1.6 million in funding to the Oxfordshire Mental Health Partnership (OMHP) is celebrated as a crucial move for supporting individuals with serious mental illnesses. The article emphasizes the importance of OMHP and related organizations like Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Restore, and Oxfordshire Recovery College in providing essential services and fostering recovery. The author, Eloise Stark, shares her personal journey of recovery and the significant impact these services have had on her life, advocating for increased funding to ensure the well-being and resilience of the community.

Oxfordshire County Council reversed its decision to cut £1.6 million in funding to the Oxfordshire Mental Health Partnership (OMHP) following widespread concerns. The decision is seen as a boost for individuals with serious mental illnesses. Eloise Stark, a DPhil candidate in Psychiatry at Oxford University, shares her personal experiences, highlighting the critical support provided by OMHP, Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, and the charity Restore. Stark emphasizes the need for increased funding for mental health services to prevent serious conditions and support community wellbeing.

Paris's art-squat movement, once a vibrant and rebellious community of artists living and creating together in abandoned buildings, has been stifled by political decisions. The City Council's legalization of squats like 59 Rivoli, while initially providing stability, has led to the loss of the squats' communal and creative essence, as living in the spaces is now prohibited and they function solely as workspaces. The government's strategy, including the enactment of the Elan Law by Macron's government, has been to control and neutralize these spaces of dissidence, distinguishing between 'good' and 'bad' squatters. Meanwhile, the aesthetic of squats is being commodified by private investors, as seen with the transformation of La Miroiterie into a commercial venue. Despite these challenges, the spirit of squatting persists, with individuals like Gerard seeking new locations to continue the tradition.

Volunteers, including Mr. Gasquet, search mountain passes for migrants attempting to hike from Italy to France through sub-zero temperatures. The migrants, some ill-equipped for the cold, aim for Montgenèvre, a ski town on the border, seeking better opportunities in France. Mr. Gasquet, who received a call from a group of migrants, helped them to safety by driving them to a shelter where they could warm up, eat, and change into dry clothes. He believes that the responsibility for migration policy lies with politicians, not individuals like himself.

The Seine River overflowed its banks in Paris and nearby cities, marking the wettest winter in France since 1959. Thirteen administrative departments had flood alerts, and experts suggest climate change may increase the frequency of such events. An international study called for greater protection against catastrophic floods in the Seine basin. Evacuations and power cuts affected hundreds, with rivers swelling across the country.

A public letter signed by over 100 French women, including actress Catherine Deneuve, denouncing the #MeToo movement has ignited a heated debate in France. The letter, published in Le Monde, criticizes the movement for creating a culture of victimhood and a totalitarian climate. In contrast, novelist Leïla Slimani and others argue for the importance of focusing on victims' rights and security. The debate highlights cultural divides and concerns over the influence of American sexual norms on French society.

Emilie König, a 33-year-old French woman who joined Islamic extremists in Syria, now seeks to return to France after spending five years there. König, who converted to Islam and became a prominent Islamic State propagandist and recruiter, is currently held in a Syrian prison camp. Her case presents a dilemma for France and other European countries on how to handle returning citizens who were part of the Islamic State, especially considering the challenges of prosecuting them for war crimes and terrorist activities.

Paris is actively transforming its business environment to attract companies and workers relocating due to Brexit. This includes labor law reforms, tax cuts, English-speaking courts, and new international schools. The urgency is driven by the need for financial companies to maintain their EU passporting rights post-Brexit, necessitating a move from London to EU cities like Paris before March 2019.

Pope Francis has suggested that the common translation of a line in the Lord’s Prayer, 'lead us not into temptation,' is not accurate and proposes 'do not let us fall into temptation' as a better alternative. He argues that God does not lead people into temptation, but rather Satan does, and that the prayer should reflect this distinction.

Jean d’Ormesson, a distinguished French novelist, philosopher, and journalist, passed away at 92 in Neuilly-sur-Seine. Known for his charm, elegance, and aristocratic lineage, he published around 40 works of fiction and was a prominent member of the Académie Française. He played a significant role in promoting French literary merit and was instrumental in sponsoring the first woman, Marguerite Yourcenar, to join the academy. His career included a stint as the publisher of Le Figaro and a role at Unesco. In his later years, he even ventured into acting, portraying President François Mitterrand in a film. His legacy is marked by his contributions to French literature and his influence on French cultural and intellectual life.

France is experiencing a butter shortage due to a slump in European dairy production and a surge in global demand. Despite sporadic shortages, the situation has not caused significant disruptions. France consumes more butter per capita than any other country, and the shortage has affected industries reliant on butter, such as bakeries. The government and industry experts have provided differing views on the severity and duration of the shortage. Some consumers have stockpiled butter, potentially exacerbating the issue. The shortage has also been a source of humor and satire in the country.

Frenchwomen Henda Ayari and another unnamed woman have accused Islamic scholar Tariq Ramadan of sexual assault in 2012 and 2009, respectively. Ramadan's lawyer denied the first accusation and announced intentions to sue for defamation. These allegations follow similar revelations about Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein.

Gabrielle Deydier's memoir, 'On Ne Naît Pas Grosse,' unexpectedly became a media sensation in France, highlighting the societal and medical challenges faced by obese individuals. The book, which uses Deydier's life and scientific studies to expose the censure of obesity in France, sparked a range of public reactions from empathy to denigration. The memoir's success prompted a second printing by its small publisher.

Thousands protested in France against the new labor code, with President Emmanuel Macron becoming the focal point of criticism. The protests serve as a measure of public response to Macron's sweeping changes since his election victory in May. Macron's popularity has declined, and his comments have been perceived as dismissive towards workers, fueling discontent.

Cuteness, characterized by features such as big eyes and chubby cheeks, is a powerful force that shapes human behavior by attracting attention and sparking rapid brain activity. It involves all senses and can make individuals more compassionate. Babies, designed to be cute, demand attention for survival. This nurturing instinct extends to animals with juvenile features and even inanimate objects. Cuteness activates brain networks associated with emotion, pleasure, empathy, and compassion, particularly in the orbitofrontal cortex. It also triggers slow, sustained brain processing crucial for caregiving and bonding. Understanding cuteness can aid in addressing issues in parent-child bonding, such as postpartum depression or birth defects like cleft lip. Researchers are developing interventions to help caregivers interpret infant signals more effectively, potentially improving treatments for affected families.

Cuteness, characterized by features such as big eyes and chubby cheeks, is a powerful force that shapes human behavior by attracting attention and sparking rapid brain activity. It involves all senses and can make individuals more compassionate. Babies, designed to be cute, can hijack the brain-processing queue, making them difficult to ignore. Cuteness activates brain networks associated with emotion and pleasure, triggering empathy and compassion, and may even boost moral concern, aiding charities in fundraising. Understanding cuteness can also help address issues in parent-child bonding, such as those caused by postpartum depression or congenital conditions like cleft lip.

The article explores the Shekhawati region in Rajasthan, India, known for its elaborately painted havelis (mansions) dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. These structures, once a symbol of wealth for the Marwari community who thrived on the Silk Road, are adorned with frescoes depicting mythology, ancestral battles, and the influence of Europeans. However, many havelis are now in disrepair due to neglect and lack of conservation efforts. The article highlights the work of individuals like Ramesh Jangid, who converted his family's haveli into a guesthouse, and Joël Cadiou, whose mother Nadine Le Prince renovated a haveli into a cultural center. Despite the challenges, including threats from the land mafia and damage from monsoon rains, there is a push to preserve these historical structures, with some being repurposed into hotels or schools, reflecting the ongoing impact of globalization on the region.