PLUTO POD 2.0

Arrive at your destination well-rested and energized with the most complete travel pillow in the world.

Travel has never been so comfortable. Shaped by feedback from everyday travelers, flight attendants and sleep researchers, the patent pending Pluto POD is for travelers, by travelers.

Note: Pluto POD (grey) pre-orders will ship in May. ALL pre-orders will be the upgraded 2.0 version of the Pluto POD. See below.

  • Structured pillowy hood with padding (so that you can lean against the window comfortably).
  • Adjustable 360-degree, ultra-supportive design for your neck and chin.
  • Built-in eye mask for your very own sensory deprivation space.
  • Super portable—lightweight and compactable for easy travel.
  • Open: 31” X 15” | Closed: 12” X 6” X 4”

The Pluto POD 1.0 has traveled hundreds of thousands of miles. We've taken your feedback to heart and made improvements and features, to be unveiled on the Pluto POD 2.0:

  • 360-degree velcro neck support is now seamless with no edges.
  • Neck support now more supportive – without sacrificing the plush feel.
  • Three ways to attach your POD - now with a new storage hook. Easily clip your POD to your backpack and/or suitcase without using the buttons or velcro strap (though, if preferred, these still work).
  • A more breathable, temperature regulating, inner material.

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, you are ' " and currently weigh lbs . Your current pillow is with and firmness. You rated your current pillow a out of 5 . You seem to prefer . You generally settle into bed and wake up .

Will I be able to see my exact pillow?

Get amazing sleep on your trip or your money back!

Because you (and we!) know the travel part of traveling stinks—the seats hardly recline, the noisy hum of jet engines haunts your ears and the passenger next to you turns on the in-flight entertainment right as you’re trying to get some shuteye. It’s a draining flight that feels like it’ll go on forever. It’s not fun to reach your destination exhausted, so we buckled down to solve this problem for good by creating the ultimate travel pillow

We partnered with lauded design firm IDEO to create it and received a lot of valuable feedback from focus groups made up of flight attendants and frequent travelers to create the ultimate travel companion for you.

Typical neck pillows don’t offer adequate neck support. This results in waking up with aches, strains and a haze of exhaustion that makes you question if you slept at all. As a result, we based the POD’s neck pillow off of a neck brace, and then dialed it back down a bit for a cushiony, supportive feel for optimal sleep no matter your neck size and shape.

Conde Nast described the POD like being inside a mini sensory deprivation tank . This was the goal. Research has shown that we don’t typically get great sleep when traveling because we’re not in our own space / environment. Makes sense—you probably sleep better in the privacy of your own bedroom (on your Pluto Pillow ) than, let’s say, on a massive metal vehicle that hurls through the sky at 550 mph.

With the POD, you get to create your own privacy and capsule with the pillowy hood and built in eye mask. Look, you might look like an astronaut when you’re POD'ed up, but you’ll finally be able to get some sleep.

Typical travel pillows are bulky and cumbersome as they eat up valuable space in your carry-on. Not so with the POD! We spent a lot of time designing it to be able to be rolled up into a small burrito-shape that also works great as a back cushion for lumbar support or a mini pillow.

The POD only asks for a modest space on or in your luggage. You can either wrap the POD on your luggage handle or loosely around your neck. Lots of ways to save precious travel space!

After conducting a National Sleep Survey of over 2000 U.S. adults we found that 65% of people have difficulty sleeping while traveling by car, train or plane and more than 50% of respondents agreed that their ability to enjoy an adventure was compromised by jet lag and travel fatigue. We knew that after dedicating years on improving the pillow in the bedroom, it was time for us to try our hand at the pillow you take with you on trips – a.k.a. the travel pillow! We were tired of seeing the same horseshoe, U-shaped designs or tacky ones that made you look ridiculous. So, we got to work with one of the best design firms in the world, IDEO and listened to sleep researchers, flight attendants, and travelers to build the ultimate travel pillow. We hope you relax just as much on your journey as you do your destination!

Still have questions? Read all of our FAQs .

We've got two different ones for you! Open: 31” X 15” Closed: 12” X 6” X 4”

There are multiple ways to use this patent pending design: 1. You can use it as a normal neck pillow with the hood down

2. Pull the hood over for more privacy and pillowy support on the sides of your head

3. Pull the eye mask on for extra privacy and darkness to create your own little sleep capsule

4. Folded up to use as a pillow or back cushion

Glad you asked because YES! A number of our customers have shared that they weren't aware that the suede snaps (yes, real suede!) on the back of the hoodie not only serve as a function to store the POD, but that they also snap onto each other for a tighter, snugger fit (especially if you have a smaller head). This also makes the eye mask cover just the eyes instead of coming down around the face – though, the latter feels incredibly comfy :)

The compatibility of over-the-ear headphones with the Pluto POD Travel Pillow varies based on the size of both the headphones and your head. To help you gauge the fit, we recommend checking out this video . We're committed to ensuring you're completely satisfied with your purchase, so if the POD doesn't meet your expectations in terms of fit or any other aspect, you have the option to return it for a full refund under our 125-night trial .

Although the Pluto POD has a lightly padded hoodie and a built-in convertible eye mask, rest assured that it can be pushed back (akin to a conventional hoodie!) so that you can enjoy just the supportive, plushy neck pillow if preferred. That said, with the hoodie up and in use, our goal was to create a bit more warmth – your own little capsule and cocoon. When designing and developing the product, most travelers we interviewed actually shared that they tend to run cold on flights. "You can always adjust the cool a/c but not warmth," was a common take – so that was something we kept in mind (with the ability to still push the hoodie back for more temperature regulation). As the POD embarks on more adventures, we look forward to continue tweaking our designs.

With free shipping, your Pluto POD will arrive in about 7 business days. If you have a trip coming up before then, we have an expedited shipping option available at checkout. Safe and smooth travels!

The POD is meant to be used and is easy to care for. Everything touching outer surfaces is machine washer friendly. To wash the POD: Carefully unzip the neck support cushion and remove the foam (the foam will disintegrate in the wash!). Machine wash cold on a delicate cycle without other articles to prevent damage. Do not use bleach or fabric softener. When that's done, air dry flat and place the support foam back inside the cover.

We’re proud to offer the same great 125-night risk-free trial and 1 year warranty for the Pluto POD. Please make sure the POD is in its original condition and reach out to [email protected] for easy next steps. All PODs are inspected on return.

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Rhode Island man pleads guilty to making a false bomb threat that diverted plane to Jacksonville

Kendra Mazeke , Digital Content Producer

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Rhode Island man who got into an argument with his travel companion and caused the flight to divert in Jacksonville pleaded guilty in federal court to the charge of making a false bomb threat on an aircraft.

Evan Sims, 41, faces up to five years in prison for an alleged bomb threat that was made on a plane that took off from Orlando and had to be diverted to Jacksonville in December.

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Passengers on Breeze Airlines flight 717 said Sims used the word, “bomb,” while on the plane, but Sims told a different story during his previous court appearances.

RELATED: Argument on plane causes flight from Orlando to divert to Jacksonville when ‘bomb’ threat was mentioned

He told a Duval County judge that he said the word “calm” instead of bomb.

A pre-sentencing investigation needs to be completed. No sentencing date for Sims was set.

Copyright 2023 by WJXT News4JAX - All rights reserved.

About the Author:

Kendra mazeke.

As a proud alumnus of Bethune-Cookman University, Kendra is a Jacksonville native, who loves all things lifestyle-related.

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'LiB' Star Jessica Vestal Shared PDA with Harry Jowsey in Mexico Last Year

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Travis kelce visits philadelphia while taylor swift performs in singapore, travis kelce visits taylor's home state ... while she's in singapore, 606 3/3/2024 11:57 am pt.

Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift are doing the long-distance thing ... she's singing in Singapore, and even though he's a world away in Philadelphia, he's close to her hometown.

The Super Bowl champ is hanging out in Philly, where his older brother and podcast partner Jason Kelce lives with his family.

Travis got a fresh cut in the City of Brotherly Love, courtesy of celebrity barber Willis Orengo ... who documented their hangout for social media.

Seems Travis has a new haircut and a new nickname too ... Willis is calling Taylor's boyfriend "the big Yeti." They've got to be super close, Willis traveled from NYC to Philly just to give Travis his fresh cut.

Meanwhile, Taylor's overseas doing her thing in Singapore ... where she's playing to sold-out venues in Asia ... but not without some controversy.

Taylor made a couple big announcements at her Sunday show in Singapore ... showing off the cover art for her upcoming album. "The Tortured Poets Department," and announcing a bonus track, "The Black Dog."

Waiting for your permission to load the Instagram Media.

Tay Tay's in Singapore all week performing ... and then she takes a two-month break before getting back after it in May in Paris ... so it will be interesting to see if Travis comes to any of her shows in Asia, or hangs back in the States.

Remember ... Travis hung out with Taylor in Australia last month and went to one of her shows before jetting back to Las Vegas to party with his Chiefs teammates.

If Travis wants to check out Taylor's hometown while he's in Pennsylvania ... her childhood home in Wyomissing is just a little over an hour drive away.

Just sayin ... 🤷🏽‍♂️

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This Travel Pillow Is Like Being Inside a Mini Sensory Deprivation Tank

By Juliet Izon

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

In my younger years, a transatlantic red-eye flight in coach posed no greater problem than wondering what kind of music I should stock my iPod with. Armed with the airline-issued “pillow,” I could fall asleep within minutes, only to somehow wake up actually refreshed upon touching down in Rome .

Sadly, those days are behind me, and I now travel with an arsenal of products to help me eke out a few hours of rest on a long-haul flight. I’ll pop gummy melatonin before boarding, swaddle myself in  an oversized plane blanket , and then attempt to block out all exterior stimuli with  a heavy-duty eye mask and  construction-grade earplugs . The final element is a neck pillow. Without it, I find myself jerking awake whenever my head lolls forward, which is about every 15 minutes. (I’m a blast as a seatmate, if you couldn’t tell.)

And while I’ve found stellar eye masks and blankets over the years, the platonic ideal of a neck pillow had eluded me until recently. Most were not supportive enough for sleeping, or could only be used to rest your head on one side. But one day, while scrolling through Instagram, the  Pluto Pod popped up. More than just a neck pillow, the Pod also boasts a lightly structured and padded hood, as well as a pull-down eye mask. Do you resemble a bobble-headed, 1950s-style alien when you wear it? Yes, you do. Is it, by far, the best travel pillow I’ve used? Absolutely.

The pillow is the result—like many wonderful recent innovations—of curious people with time to kill during the pandemic. Susana Saeliu, founder and CEO of Pluto Pillow, spent a lot of 2020 daydreaming about when she might be able to fly again. And, after successfully launching  a unique sleep pillow , she wanted to try her hand at a travel version. Pluto partnered with lauded design firm IDEO to create it, and received a lot of valuable feedback from focus groups made up of flight attendants and frequent travelers. “It was like one big therapy session,” Saeliu says. “They groused about how tiring traveling is, and that the travel pillow options today are a mess of tradeoffs that fall short. Pillow A might be comfortable, but it’s not portable. Pillow B is portable, but it’s not comfortable. And on and on.” The result of these sessions and many prototypes is the slightly wacky-looking but supremely comfortable Pod.

The pillow has helped me cut down on my sleeping tools. With the Pod, I can eschew ear plugs and an eye mask because the padded hood dampens noise and the flip-down eye mask blocks almost all light. Sleeping with one is like being inside a mini sensory deprivation tank, except you don’t have to worry about getting wet. The first time I used it, I passed out  in the morning for a solid two hours on my way to  Nemacolin in Western Pennsylvania. It’s also worth noting that if you’re wearing a face mask, it’s a lot more comfortable to use this pillow’s built-in eye mask than a traditional over-the-head model. Since Pod’s mask is not pressed up against your eyes, it’s much easier to breathe through the face mask.

While the blackout hood is what obviously makes this pillow different from its competitors, I have also found the neck piece of the Pod to be better structured than other models. First, it wraps around your neck completely and securely thanks to the extra-wide band of Velcro fastening. This means that whatever position your neck lands in after you fall asleep, your head will have a sturdy surface to lean on (and the padding in the hood makes leaning against a window much more cozy). Plus, compared to other brands that might be stuffed with lightweight polyfill, the performance foam in Pod never loses its shape. And when your flight is over, the whole pillow neatly folds in on itself, making it easy to stuff in your backpack or attach to the handles of your suitcase .

As I write this, I’m in the middle of packing for a trip to  Secret Bay on the island of Dominica . I believe this will be my pillow’s third country on its passport, and certainly not its last. Do I probably get a few strange looks while I sleep peacefully inside the Pluto Pod? My guess is yes, but you know what? I couldn’t even see them if I tried.

Did Pluto ever actually stop being a planet? Experts debate.

It’s been 18 years since Pluto’s celestial status was called into question—yet the matter seems far from settled. We asked experts from both sides to make their case.

A high-resolution, colorized, composite of satellite imagery of Pluto.

In 2006, the world lost a lot of stars—actress Shelley Winters, soul icon James Brown, naturalist Steve Irwin—but only one planet: Pluto.

Declared the ninth planet in our solar system after its discovery in 1930 by American astronomer Clyde Tombaugh, Pluto is small, marble-colored, and became quickly beloved thanks to its association with Mickey Mouse’s pet dog (who was originally named Rover but renamed after the planet in 1931).

( See National Geographic’s first map of Pluto.)

Then, in 2006, Mike Brown, CalTech professor of astronomy and author of How I Killed Pluto and Why it Had it Coming , crashed the party and took away Pluto’s planetary classification. Ever since, the worlds of science and pop culture have debated Pluto’s fate.

To celebrate the 94 th anniversary of Pluto’s discovery, we sat down with Brown and Philip Metzger, retired planetary physicist at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center (and current associate scientist at the University of Central Florida), to get some answers. Are Brown and likeminded people correct in reducing Pluto’s significance and instead focusing on new discoveries like the yet-unconfirmed “ Planet Nine ”? Or do Metzger and others have a solid argument for the triumphant return of Pluto?

How did you end up on your respective sides of the Pluto/No-Pluto fence?   MIKE BROWN: Since I've been at Caltech, one of my main areas of research has been the objects in the outer part of the solar system and Kuiper Belt objects like Pluto. And one of the largest projects that I did back in the early 2000s was the first really wide-scale search for other objects as large as Pluto, other dwarf planets…before we called them “dwarf planets,” which, by the way, is a stupid term.

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MIKE BROWN: Because it's unnecessarily confusing. People are like, "Well, it says ‘planet,’ so it has to be a planet." I'm like, "The seahorses would like to have a word with you about that." Before the International Astronomical Union, (IAU), made up that term, we used the word “planetoid” to describe these things that are small but round, and it's a much better word because it's not as confusing. The only reason that Pluto was called a dwarf planet [after its planet status was revoked] is because that was snuck in there by the pro-Pluto people in hopes that they could then get a vote that dwarf planets are planets. The vote was then overwhelmingly rejected, but we're left with that stupid phrase. I blame the Pluto people for that.

(This is what a debate among astronomers talking about the term ‘dwarf planets’ was like.)

PHILIP METZGER: We would say that there are a lot of dwarf planets and that these dwarf planets are actual planets in the Kuiper Belt. But the thing is, we're not really arguing for Pluto to be reinstated because we think that the vote to downgrade it was irrelevant. The IAU didn't have a right to do that vote. They violated their own bylaws when they did it…Our claim is that it never stopped being a planet because taxonomy is part of science, and the taxonomy that matters is the one that the scientists are using and finding useful. Whereas the public's astrological-based taxonomy is not useful for science. It doesn't align with any theories, and that's unfortunately the one that the IAU adopted.

OK. Maybe let’s start with the criteria for planet status.  

PHILIP METZGER: In 2006, the IAU decided, number one, that [a planet] must orbit a star directly. Based on that, the moon would not be a planet…It's what we call a secondary planet, whereas the Earth is a primary planet…The second thing they said is that it has to be large enough to pull itself into a round shape by its own gravity, what we call “gravitational rounding.” And then the third condition was—and this is the one designed to eliminate bodies like Pluto—it has to gravitationally dominate its orbit in order to clear the neighborhood of its own orbit from other bodies. They didn't define what they meant by that. They just figured people would make it more concrete later. You could argue the Earth is not a planet because the Earth doesn't clear out its own neighborhood. What they really meant was [a planet] has to be gravitationally dominant according to some unknown metric that they hadn't created yet.

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MIKE BROWN: In the early 2000s, digital cameras started to get much, much better, and we could finally take pictures of the whole sky at once. We used that to discover these biggest, brightest, dwarf-est planets that are out there, including the one that really forced a discussion about Pluto. We discovered Eris, which is more massive than Pluto. And so suddenly something was going to have to give. You were either going to have to add new planets or subtract things that are no longer planets. If Pluto were discovered today, nobody would say it was a planet.

( Is there a ninth planet out there? We may soon find out.)

Are we too hung up on symmetry? Have we just all grown up with 9 planets and the thought of either 8 or infinite numbers of planets makes us uneasy?  

MIKE BROWN: No, there is no magic number. It’s not that Pluto had to be subtracted; it’s that astronomers were forced to acknowledge [the] reality that it didn’t fit with what we know about planets now. The pro-Pluto side tried to change the definition of a planet to be something it’s not because they were so desperate to keep Pluto a planet, but their definition would add 200 more planets to our solar system. The pro-Pluto faction, by the way, is dominated by people who were involved in the NASA mission to Pluto. When they launched, Pluto was a planet. By the time they got there, it wasn’t.

PHILIP METZGER: It's cultural, it's not scientific. What else in nature is like that? I mean, we don't say there have to be only nine mountains, nine rivers, nine types of beetles. And the funniest thing about it is the whole word “astronomical.” It's ironic that the astronomers are the ones who don't want astronomical numbers. They want it to be eight.

Is it about changing the way we teach science in elementary school? We get this nice, easy to memorize symmetry of eight or nine planets and leave it at that. Should it be taught as more of an evolving concept?  

PHILIP METZGER: Yeah. Unfortunately, when we’re taught that there are only eight planets and these planets reign in their orbits, we’re hearkening back to the old geocentric concept. [This outdated idea is] just simple, orderly, monocentric, and these planets are like gods, they reign in their orbit. We’re arguing they need to teach it's a dynamic cosmos. Things change, things evolve. Planets can change their orbit.

So the search for “Planet Nine” isn’t about needing a replacement for Pluto?

MIKE BROWN: Right now, [the existence of Planet Nine] a very good hypothesis to explain a lot of things we’re seeing out there that we have no other explanation for. [But] until the day that we point a telescope at it and see it and say, "Aha, there it is," it is just the best hypothesis to explain these phenomena. I think we will eventually point the telescope at it and see it, but until then, it's a hypothesis.

In the end, why do you think people have such an attachment to Pluto and a resistance to Planet Nine or other possible “replacements”?  

PHILIP METZGER: All I can say is, when the New Horizon spacecraft flew by Pluto, it was amazing. I was at Johns Hopkins University where they had the control center. When they put that up the pictures for the first time, and it was just so breathtaking… and geologically diverse. I mean, there are mountains as tall as the Rocky Mountains that are actively building, and there are glaciers that are flowing on the surface of Pluto, and there's a layered atmosphere, and there's probably an underground ocean, and there's organic material, the building blocks of life all over the surface of the planet. Not only is Pluto a planet, but it’s also more of another Earth than any other. It’s the most planet-like planet.

MIKE BROWN: I have an attachment to Pluto. Growing up, it was this weird, mysterious thing at the edge of the solar system. Who would not think it's kind of weird and small and cute? And now we've seen pictures of it. It is kind of cool looking. It's a cool place.

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Watch CBS News

Spanish tourist camping with her husband is gang raped in India; 3 arrested as police search for more suspects

Updated on: March 4, 2024 / 8:47 AM EST / CBS/AFP

Three Indian men have appeared in court after the gang rape of a Spanish tourist on a motorbike trip with her husband, with police hunting four other suspects, reports said Monday.

The attack took place on Friday night in eastern India in Jharkhand state's Dumka district, where the couple were camping.

A total of seven men are accused of carrying out the brutal assault.

"We have formed a team to hunt the remaining suspects," senior local police officer Pitamber Singh Kherwar told AFP.

On Sunday, three accused were seen being escorted into court with sacks on their heads by police officers holding ropes tied around their waists. The three were later remanded in custody.

INDIA-SPAIN-CRIME

The Spanish woman and her husband were also in court.

The couple  told Spanish TV channel Antena 3 on Saturday that the men raped the woman and hit the man repeatedly, the Reuters news agency reported.  They said they had camped out because they could not find hotels nearby, Reuters reported.

"We have to ensure strict punishment," Kherwar said, the Press Trust of India (PTI) news agency reported Monday.

Kherwar said a special team including forensic officers had been formed to scour the scene of the attack, while another team was hunting more suspects.

"They are constantly raiding places," Kherwar said in PTI's report. "We will soon arrest the remaining accused."

An average of nearly 90 rapes a day were reported in India in 2022, according to data from the National Crime Records Bureau.

That year, police arrested 11 people after the alleged brutal gang rape and torture of a young woman that included her being paraded through the streets of Dehli. Also in 2022, a police officer in India was arrested after being accused of raping a 13-year-old girl who went to his station to report she had been gang-raped.

In 2021, a 34-year-old woman in Mumbai died after being  raped and brutally tortured .

Large numbers of rapes go unreported due to prevailing stigmas around victims and a lack of faith in police investigations.

Convictions remain rare, with cases getting stuck for years in India's clogged-up criminal justice system.

The notorious gang rape and murder of an Indian student made global headlines in 2012 .

Jyoti Singh, a 23-year-old physiotherapy student, was raped, assaulted and left for dead by five men and a teenager on a bus in New Delhi in December that year.

The horrific crime shone an international spotlight on India's high levels of sexual violence and sparked weeks of protests, and eventually a change in the law to introduce the death penalty for rape .

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Pluto Pod Travel Pillow: A First-Class Sleep Experience in Economy

A person sitting on a couch wearing a black Pluto Pod Travel Pillow with the eye mask pulled over their eyes.

I fly a lot. That’s a very chic thing to say, and I’m grateful that I can often visit far-flung loved ones and so many corners of the world.

However, the reality is probably less glamorous than what you’re imagining: I usually sit at the back of the plane, by the toilets, hunched over my laptop to meet a deadline, with nothing but a smashed PB&J to nourish me because I will not abide the indignity of paying $6 for a canister of Pringles.

The only respite from this winged hell would be to sleep. Not just to escape the barbarity of the experience but also to recover some of the hours lost to the time zone upon landing. But I’ve never been able to sleep on a flight.

I thought that sleep was a privilege reserved for the first-class passengers in their sequestered cabins, or the pharmaceutically aided, or those lucky freaks who somehow overcome the bright lights, the stiff seats, the crying infants, and the constant overhead announcements. So I took on this assignment with (respectful) skepticism. I agreed to try the Pluto Pod Travel Pillow , a slightly ridiculous-looking contraption that claims to help you sleep in non-ideal environments, such as airplanes.

I tested the travel pillow on an 11-ish-hour flight from Los Angeles to London (and back), which is miserable even in first class but downright inhumane in economy—the perfect laboratory. I could barely believe it, but the impossible happened: I slept nearly 6 hours straight.

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Pluto Pod Travel Pillow

An all-in-one neck pillow, eye mask, and hoodie.

This light-blocking neck pillow looks like something an astronaut might wear, and we think it could keep us snoozing in coach even on an economy flight to the moon.

Buying Options

A supercharged neck pillow.

A person wearing a black Pluto Pod Travel Pillow with the eye mask pulled over their eyes.

At first glance, the Pluto Pod Travel Pillow seems … a bit much. It’s essentially a very thick neck pillow with a padded hood, plus a pull-down eye mask. Even rolled up into itself and snapped closed, it makes for a bulky burrito. (Actually, a good size comparison would be a party-size bag of Doritos.) One of our recommended travel pillows , the Trtl Pillow , takes up half as much space.

But what the Pod does with that space is nothing short of miraculous. The neck pillow part of the Pod, which secures in front with Velcro, sits flush against my chin, or the side of my cheek depending on how I tilt, cradling my head gently and securely while snoozing. And since the support surrounds your neck on both sides and the front, unlike the Trtl Pillow, it allows you to lean your head in any position while sleeping without having to adjust.

For those who have tiny heads, like I do, the height of the hood part is adjustable (you just clip the back portion to fold back some of the material). But even worn in its fully extended size, I felt comfortable; it just meant that instead of the pull-down screen covering only my eyes, it covered my whole face. Given that UV rays can permeate plane windows , I figure the more coverage, the better.

Did I feel a little stupid wearing this thing? Absolutely. But if you’re also feeling hesitant, I promise that once you have it on your head, you aren’t going to even see your seat neighbor, let alone worry about their sartorial judgment. The eye mask offers near-complete light blocking, and when it’s rolled up, the sides of the hood basically block out all peripheral vision, transporting you into your own little world.

But it’s bulky (and pricey)

The Pod is great, but even great things aren’t perfect. The first detraction is its bulkiness. We usually avoid recommending single-use travel gadgets like the Pod, because they’re hard to pack and (usually) used only during the flight. But since you can wear the Pod onto the plane around your neck, or else strap it around the handle of your carry-on, it’s a relatively easy-to-overcome hurdle.

For some, the Pod’s price will be the dealbreaker: At nearly $150, it’s certainly not cheap; in comparison, the Trtl Pillow plus the Nidra Deep Rest Eye Mask, our top pick, would cost about $80 in total.

The last issue is one of vanity: It made my hair flat and a little staticky. But who cares? The uninterrupted sleep was worth it.

As I complete this piece, I am booking my usual, miserable red-eye flight to Ohio from Los Angeles for my grandmother’s birthday. In the past, I would have used this as evidence for why I’m the most devoted grandkid—traveling the farthest, suffering the most. But with my Pod in tow, I’m actually looking forward to the journey. Maybe I’ll use it to catch up on some beauty sleep.

This article was edited by Daniela Gorny and Christine Ryan.

Meet your guide

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Dorie Chevlen

Dorie Chevlen is a staff writer from Youngstown, Ohio, now living in Los Angeles. She has worked as a copy editor, fact checker, and sandwich maker, but this is probably her favorite gig. Beyond her Wirecutter work, Dorie writes screenplays and contributes frequently to other sections of The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The LA Review of Books, and Slate, among others. She has been called—both flatteringly and not—“a lot.”

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New Braunfels named Destination of the Year in Texas Travel Awards

Winners include san antonio-area, hill country attractions.

SAN ANTONIO – The Texas Travel Awards named New Braunfels the Destination of the Year for 2024.

New Braunfels took the top prize and won eight other awards, like Iconic Tourist Attraction and Best Shopping District, in the list , which highlights unique places and experiences across the Lone Star State.

“These awards are an honor and a testament to the hard work and dedication of the New Braunfels visitor industry—including hotels, lodging, attractions, organizations and businesses—who roll out the red carpet for visitors every day,” Tanya Pence, president of the New Braunfels Convention & Visitors Bureau, said in a news release.

Also in the area, the San Antonio Zoo won Best Zoo/Aquarium, and places in the Hill Country won in different hospitality categories.

Submissions for the 2024 awards opened to the public in late 2023. Any Texas-based destination, business or event was eligible for an award. The awards were then selected by five judges.

Here are the San Antonio-area destinations that made the 2024 Texas Travel Awards:

  • Brewery: Cibolo Creek Brewing Company (Boerne)
  • Live Music Venue | Small/Mid Market: Dog and Pony (Boerne)
  • Unique Lodging | Small/Mid Market: The Kendall (Boerne)

Hill Country

  • Distillery: Dripping Springs Distilling
  • Hiking/Biking Trail: Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge (Marble Falls)

New Braunfels

  • Bar | Big Market: Phoenix Saloon (New Braunfels)
  • Community Event | Big Market: Thru the Chute Cardboard Boat Race (New Braunfels)
  • Destination of the Year: New Braunfels
  • Iconic Tourist Attraction: Gruene Hall (New Braunfels)
  • Instagrammable Spot | Big Market: 8Sages – The Dolly Cottage (New Braunfels)
  • Outdoor Activity | Big Market: Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch (New Braunfels)
  • Shopping District: Gruene Historic District (New Braunfels)
  • Under the Radar Activity | Big Market: Thru the Chute Cardboard Boat Race (New Braunfels)
  • Winery: Dry Comal Creek Vineyards (New Braunfels)

San Antonio

  • Zoo/Aquarium: San Antonio Zoo

Click here for a full list.

  • Splash pads open in San Antonio just in time for spring break
  • Spring break hours for theme parks, attractions in San Antonio

Copyright 2024 by KSAT - All rights reserved.

Why Pluto's Move Into Aquarius Is the Biggest Astrological Transit of the Year

By Emily Newhouse

collage showing planet Pluto's astrological transit into the Aquarius zodiac sign in March 2023 represented with the...

Whether you want to call it a  planet (all astrologers do) or not, when  Pluto changes signs, it is a very big deal. After all, it is an event that only happens every 12 to 30 years. On  Thursday, March 23, 2023 , it will officially change signs into  Aquarius , marking  March 2023 as one of the most exciting months of the year, astrologically speaking. Depending on how old you are, you may have seen this occur just once, twice, or three times in your life thus far; for some of our younger readers, this may be the first-ever Pluto transit they'll bear witness to.

Just how monumental is this, exactly? Well, someone with an average life expectancy only experiences Pluto transiting in approximately three to seven signs . As such, Pluto is sometimes known as a "generation planet," because whole generations of people are born with the same Pluto and a new outlook. When Millennials clash with Boomers, that could be because their Plutos are simply  square . So, why is Pluto so special through the lens of the zodiac? And how might its transit into  Aquarius potentially impact your life?

By the way, if you’re looking for your sign’s full rundown for the month of March 2023, you can  check out your monthly horoscope here . If you'd like to know exactly how this transit will impact your zodiac sign, I've written a sign-by-sign rundown on Pluto in Aquarius and what you can expect, depending on which of your Houses Pluto will be entering.

  • What does Pluto signify in astrology?

What sign has Pluto been in since 2008?

When will pluto retrograde back into capricorn.

  • What does Aquarius represent in the zodiac?

Why is it such a big deal for Pluto to change signs?

  • What Pluto generation does my birth date fall under?
  • How does your birth chart factor into this transit?

What years was Pluto previously in Aquarius, and what happened?

  • How does Aquarius being fixed air sign play into this transit?
  • What it says about the internet and technology
  • What it says about aviation and space travel
  • So…what will Pluto’s transit into Aquarius be like for me ?

Why does Pluto signify in astrology?

Discovered in 1930 and named for the Roman god of the underworld, Pluto is the planet of death, rebirth, and transformation. When it changes signs there are huge cosmic shifts. Thanks to its lengthy 248-year orbit around the sun, Pluto typically spends anywhere from 11.5 to 30.5 years in a single sign and it is retrograde half the year (it’s not  just for Mercury ).  This relatively wide variation is the result of Pluto’s highly elliptical orbit and the fact that it is pitched up 17 degrees. (If you find visual aids useful, I find that this  GIF from fellow astrologer Patrick Watson’s website does the trick.)

The last time Pluto changed signs happened in 2008, when it moved into  Capricorn , where it has stayed for the last 14 years. While it will, as mentioned, transit into Aquarius on March 23, 2023. It is notable that Capricorn rules government, structure, and the practical. With Pluto in Capricorn, we have seen  authoritarian governments and corporations grow in power. This is not, of course, intended to attribute these shifts to planetary movements, only to connect what is happening on the ground and in the sky.

collage showing planet Pluto's astrological transit into the Capricorn zodiac sign represented with a ram illustration

As you may notice in the outline below covering the dates for each of Pluto's movements over the last 100 years, Pluto briefly makes an appearance back into the previous sign. As such, Pluto won’t have to say goodbye to Cap for long, retrograding back into Capricorn on  June 11, 2023 before returning into Aquarius on  January 22, 2024 , where it will remain for the next 19 and a half years.

What does Aquarius represent, and what does that mean for this transit?

In contrast to Capricorn, Aquarius rules independence, community, innovation, scientific reasoning, and the rational. When Pluto goes into Aquarius we can expect reckonings and innovations around technology, air travel, and community organizing.

Pluto is almost always the planet the furthest away from the sun. (Fun fact: This is not always the case. Every 228 years,  Neptune takes that title for a couple of decades.) Let’s put it into context with our other celestial friends. We have the personal planetary bodies: the  Sun and the  Moon (which are also known as luminaries);  Mercury ;  Venus ; and  Mars . These pertain to our day-to-day lives and can take anything from a few months to a year or two to complete a cycle around the zodiac.

Then, we have the transpersonal, or social, planets, which are  Jupiter and  Saturn . These two symbolize how we relate to society. Jupiter takes 12 years (one year per sign) while Saturn takes 29.5 years (two and half years per sign), hence why you hit your Saturn return at that age. Saturn, by the way, just  transited from Aquarius into Pisces on  Tuesday, March 7, 2023 , which made for a fascinating juxtaposition between a planet of boundaries, limits, and responsibilities and a zodiac sign of limitlessness.

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Then, we have the outer, or generational, planets, which correlate to our relationship to the cosmos and collective consciousness. These orbits last much longer, with Uranus taking 84 years (spending seven to eight years in each sign), Neptune taking almost 164 years (spending 12 years per sign), and Pluto taking a whopping  248 years . Interestingly, due to its elliptical orbit, Pluto’s time in each sign varies dramatically: It can spend anywhere from 11.5 years (when it is in Scorpio) to 31.5 years (when it is in Taurus) in each sign.

As mentioned, Pluto spends considerably longer in nearly each sign than the rest of the planets. To better understand the significance of Pluto changing signs, I invite you to consider the following: If a person is 25 or younger (meaning they were born in 1997 or earlier), they have experienced Pluto changing signs just once in their lifetime so far, when Pluto moved from Sagittarius into Capricorn in late 2008. If they are between 25 and 35 (born 1987 or earlier), they’ve witnessed it just twice: once in late 1995 and again in the aforementioned 2008. Those born in the 1970s may have seen Pluto in Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, and Capricorn — so, even if you are in your 50s, you’ve still only seen Pluto in a maximum of  four signs . And, if one of our lovely readers is 90 and was born prior to World War II, you have still experienced this just six or seven times.

Which Pluto generation does my birth date fall under?

Here is a full list outlining each of the approximate Pluto generations from the last 100 years. To recap, a Pluto generation is a group of people born under Pluto in a certain sign. Because Pluto is only in each sign for so long, we call them Pluto generations. At first, this chart may look a little more complicated than one might assume based on how slowly Pluto moves into different signs, but please note that it includes all of Pluto’s retrograde movements, as well. Pluto’s moves into fully new signs are noted in bold.

  • January 1, 1922 to October 7, 1937 at 8:13 a.m. (EST*) — Pluto in Cancer
  • October 7, 1937 at 8:14 a.m. to November 25, 1937 at 4:06 a.m. — Pluto in Leo  
  • November 25, 1937 4:07 a.m. to August 3rd 1938 at 12:57 p.m. — Pluto in Cancer 
  • August 3rd 1938 12:58 p.m. to October 20, 1956 at 1:19 a.m. — Pluto in Leo 
  • October 20, 1956 at 1:20 a.m to January 14, 1957 at 9:36 p.m. — Pluto in Virgo  
  • January 14, 1957 at 9:37 p.m. to August 18, 1957 at 11:27 p.m. — Pluto in Leo 
  • August 18, 1957 at 11:28 p.m. to October 5, 1971 at 1:17 a.m. — Pluto in Virgo 
  • October 5, 1971 at 1:18 a.m. to April 17, 1972 at 2:43 a.m. — Pluto in Libra  
  • April 17, 1972 at 2:44 a.m. to July 30, 1972 at 6:43 a.m. — Pluto in Virgo 
  • July 30, 1972 at 6:44 a.m. to November 5, 1983 at 4:08 p.m. — Pluto in Libra 
  • November 5, 1983 at 4:09 p.m. to May 18, 1984 at 10:32 a.m. — Pluto in Scorpio  
  • May 18, 1984 at 9:33 a.m. to August 28, 1984 at 11:45 p.m. — Pluto in Libra 
  • August 28, 1984 at 11:46 p.m. to January 17, 1995 at 4:15 a.m. — Pluto in Scorpio 
  • January 17, 1995 at 4:16 a.m. to April 20, 1995 at 9:56 p.m. — Pluto in Sagittarius  
  • April 20, 1995 at 9:57 p.m. to November 10, 1995 at 2:11 p.m. — Pluto in Scorpio 
  • November 11, 1995 at 2:12 a.m. to January 27, 2008 at 9:37 p.m. — Pluto in Sagittarius 
  • January 27, 2008 at 9:38 p.m. to June 14, 2008 at 12:12 a.m. — Pluto in Capricorn  
  • June 14, 2008 at 12:13 a.m. to November 26, 2008 at 8:03 p.m. — Pluto in Sagittarius 
  • November 26, 2008 at 8:04 p.m. to March 23, 2023 at 7:22 a.m. — Pluto in Capricorn 
  • March 23 2023 at 7:23 a.m. to June 11, 2023 at 4:36 a.m. — Pluto in Aquarius  
  • June 11, 2023 at 4:37 a.m. to January 20, 2024 at 7:55 p.m. — Pluto in Capricorn 
  • January 20, 2024 7:56 p.m. to March 8, 2043 at 8:01 p.m. — Pluto in Aquarius 
  • March 8, 2043 at 8:02 p.m. to August 31, 2043 at 10:11 p.m. — Pluto in Pisces  
  • August 31, 2043 at 10:12 p.m. to January 19, 2044 at 4:48 a.m. — Pluto in Aquarius 
  • January 19, 2044 at 4:49 a.m. to June 17, 2066 at 10:30 a.m. — Pluto in Pisces 
  • June 17, 2066 at 10:31 a.m. — Pluto enters Aries

*All times listed are in Eastern Standard Time (EST)

How does your birth chart factor into Pluto’s transit into Aquarius?

Before we go any further in this investigation, I want to emphasize that everyone is unique and therefore has a different experience of Pluto. You may experience the planet and its transit differently based on where Pluto is in your chart, as well as which of  the 12 Houses it is in and what aspects (angles, relationships) it makes to other  planets in your chart .

When I was 25, Pluto crossed my  ascendant sign (also known as a rising sign). A short while later, it opposed my sun. Without going into  too much personal detail, I will simply say that it was an intense and life-changing time, to say the least. Fascinatingly, if I live to be 100, Pluto will cross the bottom of my chart; if I’m still alive, I would be fully onboard for Pluto to take me into the great beyond.

If you are a Capricorn, sometime in the past 15.5 years, Pluto was on your sun, and your life likely underwent a major transformation. Fortunately, I am happy to share that you will  never have Pluto on your sun again (yay!) — unless, of course, A.I. takes over and our brains all live on into infinity, in which case, I’m sad to report that it will happen over and over again. (Luckily, we’re a long way off from that,  however many strides artificial intelligence has made thus far.) You have probably learned myriad major lessons and, at this point, you deserve a gold medal for adaptability.

Astrologers for centuries have observed phenomena in the heavens and connected them to whatever was happening on Earth when that phenomenon repeated itself. Therefore, one way to understand what Pluto in Aquarius might bring is to go back 248 years into the past — that is, the  last time Pluto awakened the Aquarius consciousness.

The last time Pluto moved into Aquarius was at the end of the Eighteenth Century, between 1778 to 1798, which coincided with the beginning of what some  historians consider the Age of Revolution , a time in history when countries all over the world were rising up and challenging the ruling authority. These included  major political and social revolutions on every continent.

Going  another 248 years back in time, Pluto’s previous stint in Aquarius (1532 to 1553) bore witness to the Protestant Reformation  challenging the Catholic Church’s authority . Aquarius is the sign of the revolutionary and the visionary — and, in and of itself, is  not about war nor destruction. But, we see that in times when Pluto has implemented the Aquarian vision of equality and freedom, many societies indeed experienced war and destruction. (That said, as an excerpt,  republished by the  New York Times , from Will Hodges’s  What Every Person Should Know About War states that "the past 3,400 years, humans have been entirely at peace for 268 of them, or just 8 percent of recorded history."  Oof .)

Each time Pluto goes through Aquarius, the status quo and what is considered both  real and  established (both Capricorn words) are turned on their head. So, what will it be this time? Perhaps the ubiquity of the internet and technology? Perhaps we will see capitalism, the individualistic mindset of success, and anti-labor efforts  flipped around on those who push them. I cannot hope to broach all the areas of life Pluto may touch on, but here are a few that peak my interest.

collage showing planet Pluto's astrological transit into the Aquarius zodiac sign represented with a jug of water...

Aquarius is a fixed air sign — how does that impact Pluto’s transit into it?

Aquarius is the last air sign , making it concerned with thought, intellect, and reasoning as well as how we communicate and how we organize information. It is also a  fixed sign , which means that, like the other fixed signs (Taurus, Leo, and Scorpio), it wishes to maintain the current state of things. Aquarius can be stubborn and unaccepting of anything that does not fit into its idea of how things are and how they should be.

This stubbornness provides an interesting contrast with Aquarius's role as a radical thinker, one who often brings new ideas to the world. However, this sign can be extreme and exacting about those ideas. Aquarius does not do a lot of hemming and hawing; there's not, for example, a whole lot of, "Hey, I think…" "Would you mind if…" or "Can we tried things this way?" Instead of asking for permission first, Aquarius simply takes action. It says, "I did it because it needed to be done. It was for the greater good. And if you do not see that, too bad."

Aquarius is the sign of scientific reasoning and logic. As a result, while Pluto is Aquarius, we may see some beliefs we have long held turned on their head. During the Age of Revolution, people often struggled with new ideas about government and rulership — conflicts and tribulations that many faced with bravery and came out the other side better than before. Aquarius challenges the status quo. The question is: What status quo will we challenge this time? In 1796, during Pluto's last stint in Aquarius, the first vaccines were developed when physician Edward Jenner inoculated a child with cowpox, leading to the development of the world's first vaccine for smallpox, a disease that wreaked havoc on hundreds of millions of people over the course of many centuries . What new information about disease — and, more importantly, about treatment — will we learn this time around?

What Pluto in Aquarius says the future of technology

The first thing that comes to mind when I hear "Pluto in Aquarius" is the internet. Rather, it is the change, transformation, death, and rebirth that are bound to happen to — and within — the internet. Aquarius rules television, the internet, and technology; as such, we will likely see major changes and realizations around our phones, computers, and pretty much anything that syncs, updates, downloads, or features like and/or follow buttons.

Pluto is also the planet of immense power and wealth — both of which have become profoundly attached to Silicon Valley over the last few decades. As Pluto is going through Aquarius, expect to see conflict between  people and the technology they use ; dissolutions and mergers in the industry; and power struggles between big tech and the government.

As the Roman god of the Underworld, Pluto is also the planet that exposes and unearths things, revealing secrets and exposing lies of the sign it is in. During Pluto in Capricorn, we saw the uncovering of government corruption and secrets, thanks to data leaks, special interest groups, and  brave whistleblowers . Now, with Pluto in Aquarius, I anticipate the secrets of some of the biggest tech companies being fully exposed.

Additionally, humans will continue to make advancements in artificial intelligence — an evolution that will keep stoking fears of the robots taking over, even if the  real risks of A.I. are less "sci-fi" and more "insidious in everyday ways that are already here."

What Pluto in Aquarius says about aviation and space travel

We astrologers often say Aquarius sees the big picture and has a bird’s eye. In classical (pre-Nineteenth Century) astrology, it rules high places — and what is higher than airplanes and rocket ships?

Pluto in Aquarius will see much-needed change to airline travel . It is very hard to talk about this without going on a rant about how much I hate air travel — though, in this instance, I suppose it is relevant to the issue at hand. A brief anecdote: The last time I flew, I was utterly disgusted to see a service using biometrics (face and eye ID) being incentivized by allowing those who purchased it to skip the line. Of course, some people may love this type of technology deal; I, on the other hand, can’t help but fear seeing more of these technological, ahem,  innovations coming down the pike. Perhaps there will be new airlines launching with Aquarian ideals, like a plane where all seats cost the same, you can move your legs without spending an extra $500, and there are no "sections."

Additionally, we are already moving into a new era of space travel. What this era means for humans, including  space’s long-term effects on the human body , remains to be seen. Of course, if we make it to Mars, life for the planet’s first colonists will be a  hard existence — no matter what Elon Musk claims.

So, what will Pluto’s transit into Aquarius be like for me ?

Pluto in Aquarius is bound to be a revolutionary time. It would be silly, if not downright offensive, to claim that we will see world peace bloom by the end of this transit, though only good things can come from  taking action to make movements , whether slight or major, in that direction. One can hope that we will see as many of us as possible striving for the Aquarian ideals of equality and community and working together to build a better, fairer society.  

On a more personal level, Pluto can bring transformation, evolution, revelation. Perhaps this means the death of something in your life  and the birth of something (or someone!) completely new, or bringing forward of something long hidden. If you think back to a time in your life of irreversible change, it is almost certain Pluto (or possibly Neptune or Uranus) were active in your chart. For now, though, I have an assignment for you: Pay attention to what happens for you personally during the week before March 23, 2023, and throughout the week after. During this time, it will echo some of the ways that you, personally, will experience Pluto’s transit in Aquarius. See you in another 29.5 years.

Read up on astrological events:

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A Rejected NASA Prototype Inspired Omega’s White Speedmaster Moonwatch

White Omega Speedmaster MoonWatch

Eagerly awaited by die-hard Omega fans since the watch was spotted on Daniel Craig’s wrist at a New York exhibition in November 2023, Omega has finally unveiled a new version of its famous Speedmaster Moonwatch chronograph. It is the first of the current generation with a white dial, a high-contrast alternative to the classic black aesthetic. Crucially, it also follows in the footsteps of some of Omega’s most experimental vintage Speedmasters.

The 42-mm, $8,100 (£7,600) hand-wound watch joins the core collection of Speedmaster Professional references, making it the first time Omega has offered a white dial option outside of now-discontinued limited editions. Powered by the METAS-certified Master Chronometer calibre 3861—Omega’s flagship manual-winding movement, offering up best-in-class magnetic resistance and a 50-hour power reserve—inside the new Speedmaster is mechanically unchanged, yet the simple change of dial color places it in a tradition of highly desirable rare Speedmasters.

The first Speedmaster debuted in 1957. It was first worn in space by Mercury 7 astronaut Walter Schirra in 1962, but the Speedmaster Moonwatch traces its lineage to 1965, when the watch was officially certified by NASA as “flight-qualified” for all manned space missions.

White Omega Speedmaster MoonWatch

Omega's new Moonwatch chrono dial color places it in a tradition of highly desirable rare Speedmasters.

But the history of white-dialed Speedmasters begins in 1969, as NASA engineer Jim Regan worked with Omega to prototype improvements to the watches worn into orbit and to the moon. The brief was for a more shock-proof and temperature-resistant watch for use on lunar expeditions and EVA (extravehicular activities), or spacewalks—temperatures could reach 120°C (248°F) in the direct glare of the sun.

Omega responded with a prototype known as the Alaska project (nothing to do with the state, it was simply Omega’s in-house codename for all NASA-commissioned watches). Cased in titanium—at the time a rare, exotic, and demanding material to work with—it boasted an additional shielding case of anodized aluminum in bright red. Inside, Omega upgraded the movement with various new components, more durable polymers, and lubricating oils specially chosen for their resistance to heat. The white dial was a purely functional choice, for its ability to reflect more heat.

Rejected by NASA as too expensive, the Alaska stood out for its white dial with checkered inner flange and large, triangular chronograph hands. These resembled the Apollo reentry capsule, but were designed with a purpose: It was supposed to make the watch easier to read under extreme vibration.

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Closeup of OMEGA Alaska watch

The first titanium Project Alaska Omega watch had a shielding case of anodized aluminum in bright red.

Omega followed the first Alaska prototype with a second design the following year, cased in the conventional 42-mm Moonwatch case. It retained the oversize red aluminum outer case and white dial, while on this model the steel cases were bead-blasted rather than polished to reduce dazzling reflections. The “capsule” hands also remained, but in black, and the classic Speedmaster’s tachymeter bezel (most useful for tracking speed over a known distance; relatively impossible in space) was replaced by a 60-minute scale.

Despite its more conventional styling and cheaper production costs, NASA decided not to order the watch, preferring to stick with what it knew. The Alaska Project watches did eventually make it into space, however, worn by Soyuz 25 mission cosmonauts between 1977 and 1981.

A white dial would not grace another Speedmaster Moonwatch until 1997, when a commemorative limited edition was produced to mark the 40th anniversary of the Speedmaster, and it was only sold in Italy.

In 2008, a limited-edition Alaska Project homage was released, and others have since followed, including the Silver Snoopy of 2015. In 2021, a white-dial Speedy was released in Omega’s proprietary Canopus white gold.

But this new model in stainless steel (reference 310.30.42.50.04.001) is the most attainable white version so far. Today, Omega says the color scheme is a nod to astronauts’ space suits, which it may be—but for fans of the brand it will always relate back to those Cold War creations.

So important were the Alaska Project watches, they were also immortalized in MoonSwatch form in 2022, as the red-bioceramic-cased Mission to Mars.

There are a number of other touches that cement this new Speedmaster’s place as the spiritual successor to the Alaska Project watches: The red Speedmaster dial text is a subtle nod to the design of both Alaska models; and the glossy lacquer used for the dial (another small first for Omega-kind) is in its own way harking back to the highly reflective capabilities of those top-secret prototypes.

Equipped with a sapphire crystal, water-resistant to 50 meters, and machined to tolerances that engineers of the 1960s could only dream of, this is a thoroughly modern Speedmaster—but like all the best Speedmasters, it has a powerful connection to the past.

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The Associated Press

Gang rape of a tourist in India highlights its struggle to curb sexual violence against women

N EW DELHI (AP) — The woman in the Instagram video appeared shaken. Her face was swollen and bruised. Sitting beside her husband, she began recounting her ordeal.

“Something happened to us that we wouldn’t wish on anyone," she said in Spanish, with captions in English. Her husband then said: "We were assaulted in the tent. We were beaten. They put a knife to our necks and she was raped by seven guys.”

In the video that has since been deleted, the woman said the assault on her and her Spanish partner — both travel bloggers — took place in a forest late Friday in eastern Jharkhand state’s Dumka district where they were camping on their way to neighboring Nepal.

The couple, who had been documenting their trip for more than 200,000 followers on an Instagram account, were found by a police patrol van which took them to a hospital, where the woman told the doctor she had been raped.

Police in Jharkhand confirmed the incident and arrested three men over the weekend. On Monday, police said they were searching for four more suspects.

The Associated Press generally doesn’t identify victims of sexual assault.

The case triggered a nationwide outcry over one of India’s rampant problems: a decades-long struggle to curb rising sexual violence against women.

Reports of horrific sexual assaults on women have become familiar in India, where police recorded 31,516 rape cases in 2022, a 20% increase from 2021, according to the National Crime Records Bureau.

The real figure is believed to be far higher due to the stigma surrounding sexual violence and victims' lack of faith in police. Women's rights activists say the problem is particularly acute in rural areas, where victims of sexual assault are sometimes shamed by the community and families worry about their social standing.

“Often, the victims are victimized further with insults, and it makes it very difficult for them to report the crime to the police. In such cases, women think it is best to keep quiet,” said Mariam Dhawale, a women's rights activist and general secretary of the All India Democratic Women’s Association.

Rape and sexual violence have been under the spotlight since the brutal 2012 gang rape and killing of a 23-year-old student on a New Delhi bus. The attack galvanized massive protests and inspired lawmakers to order the creation of fast-track courts dedicated to rape cases and stiffen penalties.

The rape law was amended in 2013, criminalizing stalking and voyeurism and lowering the age at which a person can be tried as an adult from 18 to 16.

Despite stringent laws, rights activists say the government is still not doing enough to protect women and punish attackers.

“Often, investigations in rape cases are messed up by the police and timely evidence is not collected. These cases get dragged on without any convictions and the culprits walk free,” Dhawale said. She said convictions remain rare and cases often remain stuck for years in India’s clogged criminal justice system.

In the last few years, the conviction rate in rape cases has hovered below 30%, according to several government reports.

High-profile rape cases involving foreign visitors have drawn international attention to the issue. In 2022, a British tourist was raped in front of her partner in Goa. Earlier this year, an Indian-American woman said she was raped at a hotel in New Delhi.

In January, the Supreme Court restored life sentences for 11 Hindu men who raped a Muslim woman during deadly religious rioting two decades ago. They had been released in 2022, when they were garlanded with flowers by their families and a lawmaker from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s governing Bharatiya Janata Party.

Last year, female wrestlers demonstrated against the head of the wrestling federation, accusing him of repeatedly groping women. After months of protests, Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, an influential lawmaker from Modi’s party, was charged in court with stalking, harassment and intimidation. Singh has denied the accusations.

Dhwale said even though high-profile rape cases get media attention, a culture of downplaying sexual harassment and violence against women remains prevalent in India.

“We are continuously on the road to protest, sometimes to get a single case registered. It shouldn’t be like that,” she said.

This story corrects the nationality of the women’s husband to Spanish instead of Brazilian and corrects the translation of the second quote in the second paragraph.

Three men arrested for the alleged gang rape of a Spanish tourist are brought by police to be produced before the Dumka District Court in Dumka, Jharkhand, India, Monday, March 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Rajesh Kumar)

Horoscopes Today, March 2, 2024

Here are the horoscopes for today, Saturday, March 2, 2024.

For full daily and monthly horoscopes as well as expert readings, see our full Horoscopes experience .

What is your zodiac sign? A guide to what astrology can tell you about yourself

Get to know Pisces: Personality traits and more on this Zodiac sign

Pisces (February 19 - March 20)

Truth coming to light? As the moon and Pluto harmonize, you can no longer ignore the obvious.

Is it in the stars? Free Daily and Monthly Horoscopes

Read the full Pisces Daily Horoscope

Aries (March 21 - April 19)

Envisioning your future? As the moon and Pluto harmonize, an idea you once considered impossible is within your grasp.

Read the full Aries Daily Horoscope

Taurus (April 20 - May 20)

Navigating a professional minefield? The moon’s harmonious connection to Pluto forecasts power struggles with colleagues or business partners.

Read the full Taurus Daily Horoscope

Gemini (May 21 - June 21)

Are you and your partner on the same page? The moon’s bond with Pluto reveals a fundamental difference of opinion.

Read the full Gemini Daily Horoscope

Cancer (June 22 - July 22)

Eliminating bad habits? As the moon harmonizes with Pluto, your physical, mental, and emotional health takes priority.

Read the full Cancer Daily Horoscope

Leo (July 23 - August 22)

Relationships intensifying? What began as a fling could evolve into something more as the moon and Pluto harmonize.

Read the full Leo Daily Horoscope

Virgo (August 23 - September 22)

Looking for solutions? As the moon and Pluto harmonize, you're unearthing and addressing problems around the house.

Read the full Virgo Daily Horoscope

Libra (September 23 - October 22)

As the moon and Pluto harmonize, getting to the bottom of a relationship issue is key. Work through the challenges.

Read the full Libra Daily Horoscope

Scorpio (October 23 - November 21)

Expressing your needs? As the moon and Pluto harmonize, be direct with your loved ones about what you want.

Read the full Scorpio Daily Horoscope

Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21)

Discovering the truth? As the moon and Pluto harmonize, revelations shift how you engage with peers or siblings.

Read the full Sagittarius Daily Horoscope

Capricorn (December 21 - January 19)

Facing your fears? Acknowledging anxieties around your self-worth is key as the moon and Pluto harmonize.

Read the full Capricorn Daily Horoscope

Aquarius (January 20 - February 18)

As the moon harmonizes with Pluto, others' opinions of you are out in the open. Well, at least now you know!

Read the full Aquarius Daily Horoscope

This horoscope was generated automatically using information from Sanctuary . You can send feedback to Laura Trujillo at [email protected] .

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Reviews 4.7.

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I couldn't find where to quote online…

I couldn't find where to quote online like I did last year? Kept pushing me towards an app download which I did not want to do

Date of experience : October 19, 2021

Reply from Pluto Cover

Hi Denise, I'm so sorry, but we've stopped providing travel insurance for the time being. We feel we can't provide a good enough level of cover in these times, so we make the hard decision to pause our insurance offering. I hope that makes sense? And if it does, it would mean the world if you could remove this review. Thank you!

Had one issue with claiming once, but Pluto handled it well

Great: picking insurance, options, paying, chatting with support team, submitting original claim Not so great: dealing with CSAL which is the company behind to scenes dealing with the actual claim once it goes via Zurich. So if you want the whole picture, have a look at the trust pilot reviews of: CSAL and Zurich Insurance. Edit: Pluto assured me this was a one off and are chasing things on their end. I changed the review from 3 to 4 to reflect their user-centred approach into solving this.

Date of experience : July 29, 2020

Hi Jean-Michel, I'm really sorry for the delay in processing your claim. I've just emailed you to confirm that I'm chasing the claims team and asking for this to be resolved urgently. This is not the standard we want to deliver to you, so I want to say we're sorry. The Zurich team is normally much quicker than this, so something may have gone wrong here, we will investigate immediately. Thank you for your feedback.

Good stuff Pluto!

Pluto is straight forward, reasonably priced and it's convenient especially for an ex-pat who recently moved to London. I've never had the need to claim so I can't comment on that. I sent a referral code to a mate and she forgot to use it. We emailed Pluto and our man Harry did some magic and refunded the referral discount (10 pounds) despite us making the payment already. Thanks champ :]

Date of experience : January 12, 2020

Hey Ngan - thanks for the great review. We're delighted to hear that you've been happy with your experience with Pluto so far!

Only positives

I've signed up with Pluto for the second year now, they are very responsive in chat, policies are clear, pricing is clear (you can mix and match items according to your needs), sign-up process very easy and they have an app. Where else do you find this level of transparency and hassle-free experience?

Date of experience : September 11, 2020

Hey there. Thanks so much for taking the time to write us such a great review. And thanks for sticking with us for a second year – we're delighted that you're happy with our service!

Excellent, excellent, excellent

I could not love Pluto more. I bought an annual policy last year which was really reasonably priced and super, super simple to understand. I unfortunately had to make a claim for a cancelled trip a few weeks ago and was really impressed by how easy it was to submit, and then by how quickly the claim was settled and the payment made. I genuinely didn’t think it would be possible to rave about a travel insurance company but here I am!

Date of experience : February 19, 2020

Hey Gaby! Very sorry that you weren't able to go on your trip but we're very happy that we were able to minimise the pain and that you've been happy with your experience. Thanks very much for your ongoing support!

No more waiting 7 days to a generic reply, thank you Pluto

Recently used Pluto to book cover for a trip abroad was fairly impressed with how easy the process was and for once things were actually explained. I previously hated the process of booking insurance for travelling abroad with the lack of clarity. It seems the Pluto app has completely resolved that. Further more my trip subsequently was postponed (Due to the COVID situation) so I used the app to message asking if I could receive a refund of sorts (was not expecting a reply). And to my amazement Alex got back to me offering me 10 pound off my next purchase. I doubt I will go elsewhere again as they seem like a company we can finally trust.

Date of experience : August 17, 2020

Hi Joseph. Thanks very much for taking the time to write us a review. We're sorry your trip was postponed but glad we could be of help. We look forward to covering you in the future!

Excellent service that makes bad times easier!

Excellent service that made a terrible moment so much better! I recently had to cancel a short trip to Edinburgh after having an accident the night before we were due to travel. I got in touch with Pluto, started a claim, provided evidence through their tool and had all of the money back in my account after about 5 days. Unbelievable really! I can't recommend Pluto enough!

Date of experience : December 26, 2019

Sorry to hear you had to cancel your trip Hal, but happy to hear we were able to make things a little better!

A very smooth and transparent experience

A very smooth and transparent experience. Pluto makes it very easy to quote a travel insurance policy and clearly outlines what each add-on involves and how much it will cost. My only suggestion would be to explain that by default, and as far as I'm aware, there are no gadgets included in the policy!

Date of experience : April 04, 2019

Thanks, Oliver! We'll make sure to look at how we can improve the explanation of gadgets included by default.

Fantastic cover and customer service

My experience with pluto has been absolutely fantastic. Their booking process is incredibly clear and honest, their chat feature and app are so so so helpful and their staff are very understanding. My trip plans were ruined by the Covid-19 pandemic however having pluto as my insurer made the process so much easier and they have gone above and beyond to make sure they support their customers at this crazy time. 100% would recommend.

Date of experience : April 24, 2020

Hi Nathan. We're very grateful for you taking the time to write such a great review. We're very glad that you've been happy with your experience and that you'll be recommending Pluto to others. All the best.

Simple, easy to understand, quick to buy

Quick & smooth quote journey with very clear descriptions of the core & optional cover elements. Got my quote within about 3 mins as promised and the price was better than expected. Hope I don't need to claim but of course that's the real test of any insurance product - for now, the experience is 5*

Date of experience : September 13, 2019

Thanks for the great review, Daisy! Hopefully, nothing goes wrong for you, but we'll be here to help if it does.

Nice app, very easy to use.

Date of experience : November 22, 2021

Modern and personalised insurance

This is my second time using Pluto insurance for travel around Europe. It is an easy process to get a quote and purchase the policy which is very handy. Even when I had concerns, the customer service provided from their team was exceptional and communication was speedy and helpful. Will use again

Date of experience : March 24, 2020

Thanks, Kirsty. Really glad the customer support team were helpful and even better to hear that you'll be using Pluto again.

It was so useful to see what 'add-ons' affected premium price

It was so useful to see what 'add-ons' affected the premium and by how much. It helped me make a better decision on what I really wanted covered and made things more transparent. I was able to buy an annual insurance that covered all my needs without insuring excessive (and unrealistic!) amounts!

Date of experience : February 06, 2019

Thanks, Alex. Transparency is really really important to us :)

5 star experience, I won't use another service again

I had some questions about the product, so I contacted the Pluto team. Their response was fast, professional and showed that they really care. Luckily I didn't have to make any insurance claim, so I can't really say anything about that part - but if I can infere from my initial experience with them, the whole issue would be solved fast and efficiently.

Date of experience : May 29, 2019

We're so happy to hear you had a great experience with Pluto, Radim! And we're very glad you'll be sticking around :)

Absolutely tremendous

Had to write a review because the saying I've heard before - 'it's like Monzo for travel insurance' - couldn't be truer! Easiest checkout in the world, very intuitive and lets you dig deeper into specs that are important to you (gadget cover, etc) and the customer service is so quick and so, so helpful. Do it!

Date of experience : March 06, 2020

Hey Sarah. We're absolutely delighted that you've been happy with your experience with Pluto and we're honoured that you also liken us to Monzo, who we respect a lot. Thanks again!

Smooth sign-up, and even smoother claim

I already reviewed Pluto but this time, other than just the smooth sign-up, I can also review the claim process. I was on holiday and unfortunately crashed my drone against a wall of rock — I honestly wasn't sure my claim would have been picked up, but I submitted the claim straight away. A few days after I was requested to provide a repair quote and, in less than 15 days, I already have the money needed for the repair in my bank account. This is exactly how a claim should work, and it really makes you feel like, whatever happens, Pluto has got your back.

Date of experience : September 26, 2019

Hi Giulio - sorry to hear about your drone, but delighted we were able to have your back and get you the money to get it repaired, and that you were happy with the whole experience!

I am very impressed with Pluto

I am very impressed with Pluto. The quote was very competitive and no hidden clauses or false promise. Alex from Pluto has answered my queries very quick and the explanation was very clear. I would really recommend Pluto for travel insurance. I hope it could be able to offer family cover and cover over 46 soon as I normally travel with my kids.

Date of experience : March 07, 2020

Hey there - thanks very much for taking the time to write a great review. We do indeed plan to be able to cover families within the next 3-6 months, so watch this space!

Nicest travel insurance experience I've had so far :)

I've been shopping around for a decent travel insurance, and stumbled upon these guys... I really liked their simplified approach and how they managed to step out of the "grey, boring, overly-official insurance company paradigm" and do things differently, so much more people-centric. I've had to contact them to ask / verify a few things, and found communications to be very quick, easy, courteous and helpful. Signing up was a breeze, and the policy is just tweakable enough to be flexible, but not confusing.

Date of experience : August 17, 2019

Thanks for the great review, Yohay! We're delighted that you felt we've succeeded in doing things differently and that you were happy with the signup experience and the customer service!

So easy to understand

What I loved about the quote process was how understandable it is. Most of the time, insurance companies hide important aspects in fine prints, so it was refreshing to not only have everything explained in simple terminology, but also to have everything transparent. I hope the claims process is as simple as the quote process!

Date of experience : January 18, 2020

Hi Penny - thanks very much for the great review. We really wanted to make it super clear what you were buying and what you're covered for, so we're delighted that you found the whole process easy to understand!

Awesome in-app messaging service

Great customer service when I’ve just upgraded my cover to include being covered in case FCO advice changes. Got it sorted in a couple minutes via the in-app chat functionality - no need for long calls! Thanks Pluto!

Hey Kat. Thanks very much for your review and glad to hear you were happy with the in-app messaging service. All the best!

Best Travel Agency in Dubai

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Dubai offers thrill, adventure, shopping, and entertainment all in one place without compromise. It is a renowned travel destination that blends luxury, culture, and modernization with a mixture of awe-inspiring attractions and rich history. Pluto Travels LLC provides well-planned, perfectly executed luxurious Dubai travel packages that suit each individual traveler’s needs and expectations.

Pluto Travels LLC is a veteran travel agency in Dubai offering world-class travel experiences for its clients. We take care of everything from flight bookings to visas, accommodation, and travel arrangements we ensure our customers the utmost luxury and comfort at every step.

Dubai Holiday Package

Dubai Holiday Package

Dubai Holiday Package

03 Nights & 04 Days

  • *Rates quoted above are per person on twin/double sharing basis
  • *Rates given above in USD
  • *Rates given are subject to availability at the time of booking (T & C apply)
  • *Additional supplements charges will be applicable at the time of events or exhibitions
  • Airport transfers on Private basis
  • 3 Nights’ accommodation above mentioned hotels
  • Daily breakfast
  • Dubai Visa with OTB & Covid Insurance
  • Dhow cruise with Dinner in Marina on Seat in Coach basis
  • Dubai Half Day City Tour on Seat in Coach basis
  • Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner on Seat in Coach basis
  • All Applicable taxes & VAT as of now
  • Air Tickets
  • Tourism Dirham fee is not included (AED 10 – AED 20 per night per room to be paid direct to hotel)
  • Extra bed can be arranged upon request and will be charged extra (Subject to availability)
  • Any meals and services unless mentioned in the itinerary are not included
  • Additional supplement charges will be applicable during any events & exhibitions

Optional tours (With additional/applicable charges)

  • Ferrari World with Abu Dhabi Tour
  • Yas water world entry with Abu Dhabi tour
  • Dolphinarium ticket & transfer
  • Burj Khalifa visit on Private basis
  • Aquaventrue and Lost Chambers
  • Wild wadi water park

Day to day itinerary

Pick up from Dubai airport and transfer to the hotel. Evening, pick up at 19:00 hours for Dhow Cruise with Dinner in Marina and back to hotel for overnight stay.

Pick up at 09:00 hours for half day “ Dubai City Tour ”. Afternoon, you will be picked up from the hotel for “ Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner ”. You will be transferred to the hotel after the safari for overnight stay.

Free day for leisure at your own or you may choose optional tour with additional costs.

Check-out from the hotel by 1100 hours and proceed to airport for your return journey.

Change in travel information will attract additional charges, Rooms are subject to availability at the time of booking and tariffs are not guaranteed unless 100% payment.

04 Nights & 05 Days

  • 4 Nights’ accommodation above mentioned hotels
  • Burj Khalifa 124th Floor & Dubai Mall on Seat in Coach basis

Morning Pick up (Timings are subject to ticket availability) from hotel and visit tallest building in the world “Burj Khalifa” (You can visit Dubai mall and watch water fountain shows in the evening) and back to hotel.

05 Nights & 06 Days

  • 5 Nights’ accommodation above mentioned hotels
  • Abudhabi city tour and Ferrari world theme park on Seat in Coach basis

After breakfast, proceed for “Ferrari world and Abu Dhabi City Tour”. Back to the hotel in the

evening for overnight stay.

Noteworthy places in Dubai:

tallest building in the world, famous for its stunning light and fountain shows which take place every evening.

largest shopping mall in the world by total area, it also has a 22-screen cinema complex, an Olympic-sized ice-skating rink, and the Dubai Fountain, which is the world’s largest choreographed fountain system.

An artificial island shaped like a palm tree, featuring luxury hotels, restaurants, and beaches.

Dubai Creek is a must-visit destination for those interested in the history and culture of Dubai.

Dubai Museum is located in one of the oldest buildings in the city which displays the culture and history of Dubai and the United Arab Emirates. 

Jumeirah Mosque is a landmark mosque located in Dubai. It is known for its distinctive white stone exterior and its intricate Islamic architecture.

10-day detailed Dubai travel package split-up:

  • Arrive at Dubai International Airport.
  • Meet and greet by your tour representative.
  • Private transfer to your hotel for check-in.
  • Rest and refresh after your journey.
  • Evening at leisure to explore the hotel surroundings.

visit to the Dubai Museum, Jumeirah Mosque, Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Marina.

Optional Dhow Cruise dinner at Deira Creek.

Visit to the Hatta Heritage Village, Hatta Dam, and thrilling dune buggy ride in the desert.

Morning Dubai Desert Safari, including dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding, BBQ dinner, and a belly dance show.

Visits to Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Full-day trip to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, the largest indoor theme park in the world, which features thrilling rides and attractions.

Visit Dolphinarium to enjoy the live dolphin show.

Thrilling high-speed Yellow Boat ride to view the stunning views of the city’s skyline from the water.

Full-day Musandam Tour, which includes a scenic drive through the Hajar Mountains, a dhow cruise along the Musandam coast, and snorkeling in the clear waters of the Arabian Gulf.

A visit to Burj Al Arab, the most luxurious hotel in the world, to enjoy stunning views over the city from its observation bridge.

Visit Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis, and take a tour of the world’s greatest Ferris wheel, Ain Dubai.

Visit to the Dubai Museum to learn more about the city’s history and culture.

Ride on the Dubai Water Canal and enjoy breathtaking views of the city’s landmarks.

Visit to the Dubai Frame.

Package for adventure seekers:

Desert safari: Experience the thrill of driving through the sand dunes, followed by traditional Arabian dining and entertainment under the stars.

Dune bashing: Take a thrilling ride through the desert dunes with experienced drivers who take you on an adrenaline-fueled adventure.

Skydiving: Jump out of a plane at 13,000 feet and experience a rush like no other.

Jet ski ride:   Take a high-speed jet ski ride across the Arabian Gulf and enjoy panoramic views of the magnificent coast of Dubai.

Parasailing: Skydiving adventure, where you will be lifted over the water and enjoy an amazing view of the coastline.

Scuba diving: Explore the underwater world of the Arabian Gulf with a scuba diving adventure, where you’ll see exotic marine life and colorful coral reefs.

Bungee jumping: Take a leap of faith from the top of a tall structure and experience an exhilarating bungee jump, with stunning views of Dubai’s skyline.

Zipline: Soar across the Dubai Marina on a zipline and experience the thrill of flying through the air.

Deep Dive: Plunge into the depths of the deepest pool in the world with a depth of 60 meters (196ft).

Package for shopping enthusiasts:

The Dubai Mall: One of the world’s largest shopping centers, Dubai Mall offers a mix of luxury and high-street brands, as well as restaurants, cinemas, and entertainment options.

Mall of the Emirates: Another large shopping center, Mall of the Emirates is home to over 700 stores, including luxury boutiques and high-street brands.

Gold Souk: Located in the historic Deira area, the Gold Souk is a traditional market that offers a wide variety of gold jewelry, as well as other souvenirs and textiles.

Spice Souk: Also located in Deira, Spice Souk offers a range of fragrant spices, herbs, and traditional medicines, as well as souvenirs and textiles.

Dubai Festival City Mall : This waterfront mall offers a mix of luxury and high-street brands, as well as restaurants, cinemas, and entertainment options.

City Walk: A trendy outdoor shopping and dining destination, City Walk features a mix of high-end boutiques, local designers, and international brands, as well as restaurants and cafes.

Ibn Battuta Mall: Themed after the travels of the explorer Ibn Battuta, this shopping center offers a mix of luxury and high-street brands, as well as restaurants and entertainment options.

Packages for entertainment aficionados:

Dubai Parks and Resorts: This large theme park complex offers four theme parks in one location, including Motion Gate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, Legoland Dubai, and Legoland Water Park.

Dubai Opera: Located in the heart of Downtown Dubai, Dubai Opera is a state-of-the-art performing arts center that hosts a range of concerts, theater productions, and other events.

Dubai Miracle Garden: This stunning garden is the world’s largest flower garden and features over 45 million flowers arranged in a variety of shapes and designs.

IMG Worlds of Adventure: This indoor theme park features five themed zones, including Marvel, Cartoon Network, and IMG Boulevard, and offers a range of rides and attractions.

Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo: Located in the Dubai Mall, this aquarium is home to over 140 species of marine life, including sharks and rays. The Underwater Zoo also features a range of interactive exhibits and experiences.

Dubai Fountain: Located outside the Dubai Mall, the Dubai Fountain is the world’s largest choreographed fountain system, with shows taking place throughout the day and night.

Ski Dubai : Located in the Mall of the Emirates, Ski Dubai is an indoor ski resort that features a range of slopes, as well as other snow-based activities, such as tobogganing and snowboarding.

Dubai Dolphinarium: This indoor facility features a range of dolphin and seal shows, as well as other interactive experiences, such as swimming with dolphins.

Our VIP services:

Personal Concierge: Our experienced concierge team will be at your service 24/7, providing you with personalized assistance, booking reservations at the best restaurants, and arranging exclusive tours and experiences.

Luxury Transportation: Our fleet of luxury vehicles will transport you around Dubai in style, from airport transfers to sightseeing tours, ensuring that you arrive at your destination in comfort and elegance.

Private Tours: Our private tours are tailored to your preferences, allowing you to experience the best of Dubai with a personalized itinerary that suits your interests.

Exclusive Access: Our VIP services grant you exclusive access to the best experiences and attractions in Dubai, from private yacht charters to VIP seats at the world-renowned Dubai Opera.

Personal Shopping: Our personal shopping services allow you to shop in luxury and style, with our experienced team of personal shoppers assisting you with finding the best deals and the most exclusive items.

Things to keep in mind while visiting Dubai:

Respect the local culture: Dubai is a conservative Muslim city, so it’s important to dress modestly and avoid public displays of affection. Respect local customs and traditions, and be mindful of Islamic prayer times.

Beware of the weather: Dubai has a hot and dry climate, with temperatures often exceeding 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) in the summer months.

Follow the laws: Dubai has strict laws regarding alcohol, drugs, and public behavior. It’s important to obey the laws and regulations and avoid any activities that could be considered illegal or offensive.

Be prepared for the cost of living: Dubai is an expensive city, so it’s important to budget accordingly. Accommodation, dining, and entertainment can be costly, so be prepared to spend more than you might expect.

Stay safe: Dubai is generally a safe city, but it’s always important to take precautions. Keep your valuables safe and be aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded areas.

Plan ahead: Dubai is a popular tourist destination, so it’s important to plan ahead and book attractions, tours, and accommodations in advance to avoid disappointment.

Respect Ramadan: If you’re visiting Dubai during the holy month of Ramadan, be mindful of the religious observances and restrictions. Eating, drinking, and smoking in public during daylight hours is prohibited, and it’s important to respect the customs and traditions of the month.

Pluto Travels has been the leading travel management solution provider in the UAE since 2007.

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Bucs ownership, travel rank poorly in survey of NFL players

  • Rick Stroud Times staff

TAMPA — The Bucs ranked 24th out of 32 teams on report cards handed out by the NFL Players Association.

Poor team travel, which received an F and ranked last in the league in this survey, and the D-minus given to the Glazer family for ownership dragged the club’s overall grades down.

The NFLPA asked players to assign letter grades about their own teams in 11 categories. Those included anything from the head coach to the treatment of players’ families.

Across the league, ownership drew mostly high marks (10 As and 11 Bs) from about 1,700 players who completed the report card and provided feedback on facilities, travel policies and other work-related items.

In addition, Bucs players complained that the Bucs charge $90 per child for game-day child care, something offered for free by other teams. Only 11 other teams don’t provide a family room during games.

Younger players also have to pay $1,750 a year if they don’t want to share a hotel room with a teammate on the road.

“We value the NFLPA report and the input from our players that it provides,’’ the Bucs said in a statement about the NFLPA’s 2024 report card. “The feedback allows us to examine, address and improve many areas of our operation. We hold ourselves to the highest standards as we strive to be first-class in everything we do.’’

The overall ranking would have been even lower if not for the fact that the dietician, training staff and strength coach all received high marks. The best grade for the Bucs? That would be the A-minus the strength coaches received, which ranked 11th in the league.

The Glazers ranked 29th in the NFL when it came to the “perceived willingness to invest in the facilities,” according to the report card.

Bucs players believe the locker room is “old, outdated and needs to be renovated.”

They described the it as “smelly” and “unclean,” and cited bugs being “consistently in the showers.” They also described the team sauna as “dirty, small and broken down.”

“Outdated facilities are one thing, but providing clean showers and workspaces, and not charging players to have their own hotel room on work trips should be the basic standards for a multi-billion-(dollar) professional sports enterprise,” the report card said.

The Miami Dolphins, who had nothing lower than an A-minus in any category, ranked first overall.

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Rick Stroud is a sports reporter covering the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Reach him at [email protected].

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