Category Archives: Mars Colony

Etihad Rail will travel from Abu Dhabi to Dubai in 50 minutes flat and to Fujairah in 100 minutes

Published: Mon 6 Dec 2021, 11:31 PM

The UAE, which turned an empty, barren desert into bustling metropolises, and which aims to build a colony on Mars by 2117, has now turned its focus to building railway tracks to connect the entire country.

The grand ambition was unveiled by none other than His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai; and His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, at Expo 2020 Dubai.

The project, which has been long overdue, is announced at a time when the UAE has set sights on the next 50 years of progress after concluding the Golden Jubilee celebrations in a befitting manner. There is no better way to begin the Next 50 journey than this. This is in line with the mission of relentless progress and transformation that the UAE leaders have undertaken ever since the Union was formed in 1971.

Etihad Rail, which was previously meant for freight movement, is now expanded to include passenger services. Once complete, one can travel from Abu Dhabi to Dubai in 50 minutes flat and to Fujairah in 100 minutes. Powered by electricity generated from non-fossil fuel sources, the rail system will take thousands of cars and lorries off the roads.

Apart from de-clogging the congested highways, it is expected to offset carbon emissions in a big way, thereby helping the UAE achieve the avowed objective of becoming carbon-neutral by 2050. Faster movement of goods and people across the length and breadth of the country is key to the integration of economy. It will certainly quicken economic progress and lay strong foundations for a prosperous and self-sustaining economy. By 2030, the new railway system will have come into operation, deepening the economic diversification of the country.

That the UAE leaders dream big and plan big is now the staple of fairy tales. Unending stream of projects and plans is a testimony to the dogged determination of the leaders who would spare no effort to put their nation at the pinnacle of glory.

The UAE has been at the forefront of research and implementation of state-of-the-art transportation systems. Work on a Hyperloop system and flying taxis began here years ago and will fructify in due course, putting the country ahead of many others. The UAE has made a name for itself when it comes to innovation and novel approaches to solving problems. Railways is a traditional system of mobility that has linked and united several bigger countries such as China, India and Europe for more than a century. This system will do a world of good to a smaller country like the UAE too.

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UAE railway project: No better way to begin the next 50 journey - Khaleej Times

According to a study by financial advisory firm The Advisor Koch, dogecoin is the most preferred cryptocurrency in 23 US states, including Florida, Hawaii, Illinois and New Jersey. Data obtained from Google Trends Analysis. Bitcoin is the most preferred cryptocurrency in 10 states, including Alaska, Connecticut and New Hampshire, second only to DOGE. Other frequently searched cryptocurrencies include Ethereum and Shiba Inu.

This popularity of Dogecoin may be due to the approval of Elon Musk. Whenever Teslas CEO tweets about Altcoin, its price goes up and attracts more attention from users and investors.

The latest tweet was released on October 18 and raised the price of DOGE by 13%. But Musk has only released a photo of a dog holding a spacecraft. This tweet may be a continuation of the speculation that Dogecoin will become the official currency of Mars. Two days before the tweet, the global blockchain news bulletin CoinIdol reported that the community was delighted with the idea of bringing DOGE to the future colony of Kasturi on Mars.

In fact, another altcoin CEO of Tesla may be responsible for the popularity of Shiba Inu. Altcoin got more attention after Musk posted a tweet with a photo of the new puppy of his named breed. In just 30 days, cryptocurrency has grown by 400%. However, it came to a standstill after Elon declared that he had no stake in Shiba Inu.

Regardless of whether Elon Musk affected the leadership of Bitcoin in the United States, the global situation has not changed. BTC is the most searched cryptocurrency by 2021 with 24.7 million monthly queries worldwide, according to Google search data. Dogecoin comes in second, followed by ethereum and shiba inu.

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Thanks to Elon Musk, the most popular bitcoin tocogen in the United States - Hardwood Paroxysm

AI is now so important to space exploration that it is likely to discover alien life before we humans do - but luckily, machines are unlikely to betray astronauts any time soon.

That's according to the head of AI at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Dr Steve Chien, who helps steer some of NASA's major artificial intelligence programmes both on Earth and on Mars.

In an exclusive interview with the Daily Star, Dr Chien explained that AI - often known as 'machine learning' - has become completely integral to NASA missions.

This is because AI enables NASA scientists to analyse huge amounts of data quickly and understand 'unusual events' in space.

"NASA generates vast amounts of data, and we use machine learning to try and pull out subtle signatures and look for unusual events in these large datasets," Dr Chien says.

AI can automatically sift through things like satellite imagery and narrow down the most interesting parts of these cosmic events, which could be anything from supernovas to deadly meteorites.

It passes these onto humans for further analysis - but often, it's the AI that will spot these anomalies first.

If an AI did discover signs of extra-terrestrial life first, it would take human analysis to confirm its existence in a process Dr Chien calls "intelligence amplification".

"Would it go to [AI] before humans? I would say almost certainly yes, but I would consider it a joint discovery," he says.

"The pre-screening happens with artificial intelligence. If we're getting 500,000 images down per night, there's no way humans could look at all of it. But the machine learning [AI] narrows it down to fifty per night. Then the humans can look at those fifty."

"So if we see that signature and it turns out that we can eventually determine that it is an extraterrestrial life signature, is it the machine learning that did the discovery or is it the humans? I would consider a team discovery."

As part of one project over the last five years, NASA has even used AI to analyse mysterious radio signals from deep space and try to understand their origin.

"That's always a fun thing, because there are some people who think that these are some signs of an alien civilization reaching out to us," said Dr Chien.

"All I would say on that, because, you know, I'm not an astrobiologist, is that it is an explanation, and I don't think we can rule it out."

"But is it the most likely explanation? That would not be the consensus of the science community."

While the likes of Elon Musk and SpaceX haven't quite landed anyone on Mars just yet, AI has been playing an important role in Mars missions for some years and is likely to be central to any Mars colonisation efforts in future.

"We absolutely have to have AI if we're going to send humans to Mars," argues Dr Chien. "The reason is that, when you go someplace in space, you have to bring this huge infrastructure with you in order to ensure the people survive."

The International Space Station, for example, has five to eight astronauts on it at any one time, and they are completely reliant on a huge supply chain of food, fuel, and support systems.

Every time something goes wrong, the ISS can be assisted from Earth thanks to being in constant communication with mission control.

But Dr Chien says this won't be possible on Mars due to its distance from Earth.

"You can't really do that on Mars, because you're not going to have the same kind of communications," he says. "You can pretty much send something there roughly every two years, it's not like doing launches every few weeks to the Space Station."

He believes AI will have a vital role to play in ensuring a Mars colony stays functioning, allowing astronauts to focus on the "intellectual" tasks of exploration and research.

"If you think about your house, whenever something breaks, you have to call in the plumber or the electrician or whoever," says Dr Chien. "There's no such person like that on Mars. So it's very important that these things take care of themselves"

He adds: "The whole point of sending astronauts to Mars is to allow them to explore. We can't spend all this money and all these resources to get astronauts to Mars, just to have them fixing things and tinkering with the refrigerator."

As part of his day job, Dr Chien helps oversee AI systems that power the Perseverance rover, including its navigation system, a 'targeting' system that can search for samples, and even the kit that helps Mars rovers travel across rough terrain.

He believes colonising Mars will involve sending a small team of human astronauts who are supported by these AI-powered rovers that can scout around the red planet, send back pictures, and ask astronauts if they want to investigate further.

However, we don't have to worry about these rovers or AI systems turning on humans while they're on Mars

"I would say that kind of scenario is very far off in the distant future. It's more likely the opposite situation would occur. If you didn't have the AI, it would be so much harder to maintain things on Mars and it would be much less tenable for humans. With AI, you could certainly be able to operate a habitat for much longer."

Originally posted here:

AI will find aliens before humans - but it won't try to kill us yet, says NASA chief - Daily Star

The highlight is a 3D model project titled 'We sail into the future'

Published: Wed 24 Nov 2021, 3:46 PM

Children of determination at the Future Rehabilitation Centre in Abu Dhabi are marking the UAEs Year of the 50th by creating a Heritage Village highlighting traditional culture and achievements.

Children, both locals and expats, with Down syndrome, autism, speech and language disorders and mental and physical disabilities participated in a host of activities at the centre. These included basket-weaving, arts and crafts, live cooking and henna designing.

Students and staff wore traditional attire and helped each other at the booths. The highlight of the village is a 3D model project titled 'We sail into the future', which is an Emirati dhow displaying past traditions, present landmarks and future colony on Mars. A constant in all these concepts is the Future Rehabilitation Centre.

Children with determination are special and deserve a place in society. They just need an opportunity to display their talent. And once they have that opportunity you will see that they are as good as others, said Samira Lounis, head of education at the Future Rehabilitation Centre.

The village is created by the students and trainers, with contributions from parents and even grandparents.

This is a village for the students and by the students. In our beautiful community, every department has been involved. The goal of this village is for us to celebrate the UAE Golden Jubilee. And for our students to explore the beauty of the UAE culture and heritage through sensory experience, i.e., see, hear, touch, taste and smell.

"And thats why we have created six booths: basket-weaving, henna designing, UAE art and craft, bubble making, traditional food and our 3D model project: 'We sail into the future'. All the objects are sustainable, recyclable objects. Old items are turned into baskets," Lounis said.

The centre opened in 2000 with 60 students. It is dedicated to empowering children of determination across all nationalities.

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Mowfaq M.A. Mustafa, the centre's director, noted that the UAE has been working on inclusion and integrating students into the society.

Our centre welcomes students from all nationalities. We have students from more than 20 nationalities. Nearly half of the students are locals. They are with different disabilities. The centre has made great achievements with regards to integrating students into mainstream schools and the society. More than 130 students have been integrated into the mainstream schools and we have 17 students working in the private and public companies," he said.

The centre, formerly known as the Future Centre for Special Needs, has been honoured with the Sheikh Khalifa Award for Education.

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Look: Kids of determination create 'Heritage Village' to mark UAE's Year of the 50th - Khaleej Times

And if successful, the project could pave the way for a similar project on Mars, experts have predicted. Human beings have not set foot on the lunar surface since Apollo 17 in 1972.

But in order to construct long-term bases, mankind must not only travel there again but must also harness the power of electricity to enable people to stick around.

To this end, NASAs Artemis project envisages the construction of a fission surface power system for safe, efficient, and reliable electrical power.

Fission surface power, alongside solar cells, batteries, and fuel cells can supply the power needed to operate rovers, conduct experiments, and use the Moons resources to produce water, propellant, and other supplies necessary for life support.

Jim Reuter, associate administrator for NASAs Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD) in Washington, said: Plentiful energy will be key to future space exploration.

I expect fission surface power systems to greatly benefit our plans for power architectures for the Moon and Mars and even drive innovation for uses here on Earth.

NASA, working alongside the US Department of Energy (DOE), is asking American companies for design concepts for a fission surface power system that could be ready to launch within a decade for a demonstration on the Moon.

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Senior engineer Sebastian Corbisiero, the Fission Surface Power Project lead at the DOE's Idaho National Laboratory, added: "The feedback and enthusiasm we continue to see for space nuclear power systems has been very exciting, and understandably so.

"Providing a reliable, high-power system on the Moon is a vital next step in human space exploration, and achieving it is within our grasp."

NASA and the DOE (via the Idaho National Laboratory, which is operated by Battelle Energy Alliance) will pick competing US companies to develop initial designs over a 12-month period.

The resulting designs will inform an industry solicitation for the final design and build of a flight-qualified fission power system to send to the Moon on a demonstration mission.

Both NASA and the DOE believe future fission systems will need to produce a minimum of 40 kilowatts of energy, which NASA says could power approximately 30 households for up to 10 years.

At such levels, there ought to be sufficient energy not only to make a sustained lunar presence possible, but also one day to enable exploration and even colonisation of the Red Planet.

NASAs fission surface power project is managed by Glenn Research Centre.

The technology development and demonstration are funded by the Space Technology Mission Directorates Technology Demonstration Missions program, which is hosted at Marshall Space Flight Centre in Huntsville, Alabama.

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NASA plots 'important step' to powering future space colonies with nuclear reactor on Moon - Daily Express

We are in the midst of a new era in space exploration, one in which everyone from NASA to Elon Musk's SpaceX have expressed interest in the idea of sending humans to Mars and even establishing permanent settlements on the red planet.

But one major challenge to long-term colonization of Mars is the planet's lack of a strong, global magnetic field like that of Earth's. In a new paper, published in the journal Acta Astronautica, an international team of scientists consider how creating an artificial magnetosphere around the planet might be possible.

While this concept may sound totally outlandish, the teamwhich includes two NASA experts and one from Princeton Universityexplore how it could be done, in theory.

"If humanity is ever to consider substantial, long-term colonization of Mars, the resources needed are going to be extensive," the authors wrote in the study. "For a long-term human presence on Mars to be established, serious thought would need to be given to terraforming the planet.

"One major requirement for such terraforming is having the protection of a planetary magnetic fieldwhich Mars currently does not have. In this article we explore comprehensively for the first time, the practical and engineering challenges that affect the feasibility of creating an artificial magnetic field capable of encompassing Mars."

The Earth's magnetosphere helps protect the planet from cosmic rayshigh-energy particles that move through space at nearly the speed of light. It also enables our planet to retain its atmosphere, which would otherwise be stripped by large solar storms as they pass us by.

While Mars does have small regions where a surface magnetic field remains, these areas are confined to the southern hemisphere of the planet and are not large or powerful enough to provide sufficient protection for any future colony.

In the new paper, the scientists don't argue for the need to create an artificial magnetosphere on Mars, or discuss the likelihood of humanity colonizing Mars, they simply outline the pros and cons of the different potential engineering approaches.

"With a new era of space exploration underway, this is the time to start thinking about these new and bold future concepts and to begin filling strategic knowledge gaps," the authors wrote.

The researchers present multiple technological solutions for generating an artificial magnetic field on the red planet under the assumption that the desire is to create one similar to that found on Earth. They include information about where the potential magnetic field generator could be located as well as possible construction strategies.

"This issue, of creating an artificial structure at unprecedented scale, has not been considered in a peer-reviewed journal before," the authors wrote.

Among the options considered, the researchers discuss the possibility of restarting Mars' iron core, perhaps using nuclear weapons.

Earth's magnetic field originates within our planet's iron core as a result of a dynamo effectthe process through which a rotating, convecting and electrically conducting fluid can maintain a magnetic field. But the interior of Mars is smaller and cooler, thus restarting the dynamo process in the planet's interior would be very difficult, according to the authors.

The researchers conclude that it is unlikely this will ever be a viable option given the vast numbers of nuclear weapons that would be requirednot to mention other issues such as major challenges regarding drilling to the coreand the uncertainty over whether or not the dynamo effect would even restart, and how long it would continue, if so.

Another option, which has been proposed before, could involve using a vast ground-based or orbital solenoid loop system. Solenoid loops are long, thin loops of wire, often wrapped around a metallic core, that produce a magnetic field when current is passed through them.

But this approach would require the construction of a huge physical structure in space that, depending on the material used, could be very heavy and involve large quantities of rare substances. The power requirement would also be large, but not unimaginably so, the authors said, especially if controlled nuclear fusion has been successfully developed as an efficient energy source in the future.

In the end, the scientists propose what they say is a "completely novel" solution, which they deem to be the best approach for creating an artificial magnetic field around the red planet.

This solution would involve the creation of an artificial ring of charged particles around the planet, possibly by ionizing matter on the surface of one of Mars' moon's, Phobos. Ionization refers to the process of converting an atom or molecule into an ionone that has a positive or negative electric charges as a result of having lost or gained one ore more electrons.

After the matter from Phobos' surface has been ionized, these charged particles would then be accelerated to create a ring-shaped cloud of ions around Mars. A similar, naturally occurring effect has been observed at Jupiter's moon Io.

The researchers argue this approach would create a persistent magnetic field strong enough to protect a terraformed Mars. It would also require the lowest amount of power and would involve the least mass and construction effort, they said.

Nevertheless, the researchers note that the resources needed to enact any of the solutions they described would be "vast," while each approach will come with huge technical challenges.

The experts did not consider specific timescales and logistics in the paper, given that they expect the terraforming of Mars to be a "multi-century" endeavor.

They add that certain "paradigm-changing" shifts, such as the development of successful and efficient nuclear fusion reactors, would likely be necessary to enable the colonization and terraforming of the red planet on such a scale. But as of this time, a viable, commercial fusion reactor has yet to be developed.

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Scientists Consider Creating Magnetic Field Around Mars so We Can Colonize the Red Planet - Newsweek

Are the Robinsons endangered if they meet their future selves in Lost in Space: The Ultimate Collection?

In celebration of the third and final season of the Netflix television series, Legendary Comics collected previously released stories about the Robinsons into a one-bound book with Lost in Space: The Ultimate Collection.

As a bonus, there will be two new, never-been-told adventures included in the collection. The worlds do collide when the classic crew of the 1960s Jupiter 2 meet their counterparts in this celebratory release.

The official comic book expansion features stories by Richard Dinnick (Doctor Who) and Brian Buccellato (Batman: Detective comics, The Flash) with art by ZID (Godzilla vs. Kong: Kingdom Kong), Steve Stanley (Lost in Space: The Lost Adventures), and El Garing (Dracula).

In When Worlds Collide Part One, written by Richard Dinnick with art by Steve Stanley, the Robot works to save the Robinsons from a reptilian creature that invades the camp as the family attempts to build a light tower to contact their colony ship, the Resolute.

In When the Worlds Collide Part Two, written by Richard Dinnick with art by El Garing, the classic crew of the 1960s television series meet their counterparts in a story that celebrates all eras of Lost in Space. The story features the crew of Jupiter 2 from Earth in 1997, led by professor John Robinson, as they encounter their counterparts from another reality who are also lost in space and cut from the Resolute. They ended up encountering a new danger while they were getting acquainted.

We are thrilled to do something in this volume that can only be done in comics, bring both casts of the Lost in Space television shows together for the first time in a new story that celebrates both eras of the series, said senior vice president of Legendary Comics Robert Napton. Fans have been able to follow the Robinsons on even more adventures through the comics, and we cant wait to share these new stories and possibly even introduce a new generation of readers to the original crew of the Jupiter 2.

Lost in Space: The Ultimate Collection is in stores and online retailers on December 14 with a retail price of $29.99 (US)/ $37.99 (Canada). The final season of Lost in Space premieres on Netflix on December 1.

Source: Legendary Comics

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Legendary Comics to Release Lost in Space: The Ultimate Collection Including a New Mashup Story - LRM Online

Part of a High Court dispute between the development company run by Johnny Ronan and its co-investor in three planned developments in Dublin has been resolved.

Ronan Group Real Estate (RGRE) had tried to prevent its co-investor, DigitalBridge Inc, formerly Colony Capital, from completing the sale of its stakes in the developments, worth an estimated 1 billion, to US group, Fortress Investment.

The developments are the mixed residential and commercial development, the Waterfront, on Dublins docklands; Facebooks new European headquarters at Fibonacci Square, in Ballsbridge; and the Spencer Place development in the docklands that includes a headquarters tower for tech firm Salesforce and a luxury hotel, the Samuel, to be operated by the Dalata Group.

RGRE obtained two injunctions last month restraining completion of the sale and also preventing DigitalBridge appointing a receiver over the Waterfront assets arising from an alleged 317m debt.

DigitalBridge owns some 70 per cent of Waterfront.

The injunctions were sought by the RGRE and a number of related companies pending determination of the full dispute between the parties.

DigitalBridge and a number of related companies, opposed the injunction applications and denied the claims of RGRE.

The injunctions matter was due for hearing before Mr Justice Denis McDonald on Tuesday when he was told at the outset discussions had taken place between the parties and further time was sought until the afternoon.

Following further talks, Michael Cush SC, for RGRE, told Mr Justice McDonald the injunctions issue had been resolved.

The judge adjourned the matter to December 21st and said he was glad to hear an accommodation had been reached.

The dispute arises out of an agreement this year by DigitalBridge relating to a $2.7 billion (2.3 billion) transaction to sell its non-digital European property assets to Fortress.

Digital Bridges joint ventures with RGRE are proposed to be wrapped into that deal, over objections from Mr Ronan.

RGRE claimed this breached an oral agreement reached with DigitalBridge last December to sell its interests in the Dublin developments to a consortium backed by South African institutional investors.

The agreement, the court previously heard, was between Mr Ronan and Tom Barrack, then executive chairman of Colony, concerning the disposal of Colonys interest in two projects, the Spenser South and Fibonacci projects, to a consortium comprising Mr Ronan and South African investors.

Digital Bridge and RGRE are joint venture partners in Waterfront, a commercial and residential scheme that would see over 1,000 new homes and 66,718sq m of office space developed.

The office scheme has planning permission but An Brd Pleanla refused last May to grant approval for the planned residential element, comprising two 40-plus storey towers.

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Injunction aspect of Ronan group dispute resolved, High Court hears - BreakingNews.ie

A world traveler returns home to Haiti and finds the beauty, history, and warmth that the world is overlooking.

Haiti is a country of contradictions. Once consideredthe most lucrative colony in the world for its sugar and coffee, the countrys progress has been stymied by political instability and natural disasters. While recent news headlines highlight the countrys mounting problems (like the assassination of President Jovenel Mose and a devastating 7.2 magnitude earthquakein summer 2021), Ive had the chance to see another side of the Caribbean country. In recent years, Ive been able to discover firsthand how beautiful Haiti is, exploring a country with scenic beaches, rich culture, and delicious cuisine.

I was born in the coastal city of Jeremie, raised in Canada, and moved to Florida when I was an adult, but I hadnt been back to the island since I was a childand the first few times I returned, I went back on humanitarian trips to hand out clothing, paint homes, and play with the children who followed us around. While our service group spent some time at local beaches after volunteering in the rural clinics, I felt like there was a lot that I was missing out on.

In 2017, with the help of Mennenm La Tours, a Haitian-owned tour company, I booked a trip with some friends hoping to see another side of my homeand I did. We split our time between Port-au-Prince and Jacmel, and I got to hike mountains, take a speedboat to a private island, and grind fresh coffee beans on a coffee farm.

On one of our last nights, we visited a lounge in a Petionville suburb. Pulling up to a nondescript building, we werent sure what to expectbut we were soon swaying to the DJs music. Later that night, we witnessed a spontaneous rara band performance; we were mesmerized as their drums shook the room and horns echoed into the night air.

At that moment, I felt so much pride in my country. I felt connected to the place I had left as a child, and seeing Haiti outside of the lens of poverty helped me appreciate my home country even more.

Haiti faces an uphill battle with its current economic and political problems. The country currently has no functioning government,and the U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 4 warning (the most serious level) for any nonessential travel due to the ongoing civil unrest.

While things look bleak, I think its important for those who have never been there to know that, like so many countries depicted negatively in the news, Haiti is much more than whats talked about in headlines. Its a beautiful country with a lot to offer. In fact, Haiti has a long history as a destination for travelers looking for adventure, and my own visits have revealed theres still so much Id like to see someday.

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On my first few humanitarian trips, I stayed close to Port-au-Prince, but I soon found out that there are many destinations beyond the busy capital. During my last visit, we drove to Jacmel, a seaside town on the south coast, once nicknamed the City of Light because it was the first city in the Caribbean to have electricity.

We visited Hotel Florita, a mansion built in 1888 that has been lovingly preserved to include a collection of charming guest rooms outfitted with four-poster beds and plantation shutters that open onto private balconies. We also strolled through Jacmels neighborhoods lined with colorful Victorian gingerbread homes, in which wealthy Haitians used to dwell. While many of the mansions had faded from their former glory, it reminded me of the riches that Haiti used to be known forit was once called The Pearl of the Antilles because of its natural beauty and resources, like coffee and sugarcane.

On that same trip, I also went to the Museum of the Haitian National Pantheon in Port-au-Prince, and the visit was an emotional experience. Some of the artifacts trace the story from slavery to freedom: the anchor from the Santa Maria ship that Christopher Columbus sailed when he landed in Haiti in 1492, shackles from enslaved Africans bought and sold by Spanish and French colonizers in the early 17th century, and the bell that was used to ring out Haitis independence in 1804, becoming the first Black republic in the world. That afternoon I sat with the heaviness of learning about the legacy of slavery in Haiti and the price my ancestors paid to be free.

It may surprise some people that Haiti has beaches and waterfalls that rival any island in the Caribbean. One of the highlights of visiting Haiti was making the trek to Bassin Bleu, a collection of three natural waterfalls only accessible by local guides, like the ones we had through Mennenm La Tours, who helped us rappel down slippery rocks to get to the completely secluded swimming holes. We spent the whole afternoon sunning on rocks and watching locals dive into the turquoise waters.

Most visitors to Haiti are familiar with Labadee, a private beach owned by Royal Caribbean for its cruise ship passengers, but beautiful beaches and beachfront resorts are scattered along Haitis coast. Our tour guide, Ann-Sophie, took us by speedboat to Balanier Beach, a secluded spot where we ate fish and rice served on banana leaves. The waves lapped the white-sand beach, and as I snapped pictures on my iPhone, I remembered thinking that people would never believe this was Haiti.

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Like other Caribbean countries, most meals in Haiti include a heaping serving of rice and beans, freshly caught seafood or stewed chicken, and plantains. While I was in Haiti, one of my favorite snacks was pate kode, a delicious street food thats made by rolling cabbage, onions, chicken, or sliced hot dogs into a thick dough and deep-frying the stuffed pattie to a golden crisp.

Another food I enjoyed was pikliz, a spicy mixture of pickled cabbage, carrots, and peppers. Pikliz is often served alongside griot (fried pork) or tassot (fried beef) and a cold bottle of Prestige, Haitis national beer.

Coffee is one of Haitis main exports, and the beans are farmed and handpicked in the highest mountains. On a tour of a coffee plantation, I sifted freshly picked coffee beans through my fingers. The local coffee farmers also showed us how to grind coffee beans with a giant mortar and pestle, and we each took turns grinding the beans to the beat of a song sung by the farmers gathered around us. Later we sat around and enjoyed our freshly brewed Haitian coffee, no cream or sugar needed.

Ive been impressed by the creative art Ive stumbled on in markets and galleries in Haiti, and much of it is made from limited resources. Over the years Ive brought back handmade bracelets made from brightly colored yarn and necklaces fashioned from tightly rolled newspaper strips painted to resemble beads.

In Port-au-Prince, I visited the packed markets that surround the Champs de Mars public square where painted canvases are propped up against fences, turning streets into outdoor galleries. Haitian art is vibrant, and art scenes usually depict everyday lifewomen carrying baskets on their heads and children playing in rivers.

I have a collection of carved wooden vases and keepsake boxes from my various trips, and Ive also framed art pieces and hung them on my walls at home. When I pass the paintings, I think about my past travels and my vow to keep going back to Haiti.

In the summer of 2020, I had plans to travel to Cap-Haitien, Haitis second-largest city, which is full of cultural and historical attractions. I had plans to scale La Citadelle, the UNESCO-designated fortress located on Haitis northern coast. Sitting 3,000 feet high on a mountaintop, the fortress is the largest in the Americas. I was also looking forward to visiting Cap-Haitiens food hot spot, Lakay, known for its savory dishes and live music, and to staying at the newly opened Satama, which overlooks the bay of Cap-Haitien.

As we know, 2020 put most peoples travel plans on hold, but even as other Caribbean islands begin to slowly open, the future of tourism in Haiti remains up in the air until the country becomes more stabilized. The outlook is grim, but those of us who have been there know the beauty within its borders and its potential to be a celebrated destination once again. While the road ahead is uncertain, I hope for better days for Haiti, not just for the purpose of tourism but also for those who have always called the country home.

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Exploring the Other Side of Haiti - AFAR Media

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Located just north of Jackson, MS, Ridgeland offers more than its fair share of Southern charm, and it stands out as the states premier shopping destination. Well known for the Ridgeland Retail Trail and festive holiday decor, visiting Ridgeland is a great way to complete your holiday shopping in one go and get in the spirit of things while youre at it. Heres your insiders guide (in alphabetical order) to navigating the Ridgeland Retail Trail!

367 US-51, Ridgeland, MS 39157 (601) 853-4000Hours: Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

As the largest antique mall in central Mississippi, youre sure to find a gift for the collector in your life at Antique Mall of the South. From furniture to glassware to vintage collectibles, the 14,000-square-foot space offers items from more than 70 unique vendors. Plus, the collection is constantly rotating, so every visit provides a new experience.

1000 Highland Colony Parkway, Ste. 8001, Ridgeland, MS 39157 (601) 898-9123Hours: Monday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Tuesday through Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.; closed Sunday

In addition to providing luxurious services like HydraFacials, face and body peels, massages, and more, Aqua the Day Spa carries a variety of self-care products that are perfect for gifting. With satin and velvet clothing sets, bath and body items, cozy blankets, hair products, and more, they have everything you need to put together the ultimate relaxation gift set.

1107 Highland Colony Parkway, Ste. 107, Ridgeland, MS 39157 (601) 790-9662Hours: Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; closed Sunday

If youre shopping for a fashionista, consider a visit to Arco Avenue. Offering an extensive collection of footwear as well as clothing and accessories, the boutique can style your giftee beautifully from head to toe. Featured brands include Jovonna London, Aetrex, and Lemon Jelly.

111 W. Jackson St., Ridgeland, MS 39157 (601) 853-1313Hours: Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; closed Sunday

For even more apparel options, CoatTails is a womens designer clothing boutique offering everything from formal wear to everyday attire. The boutique has brought high-end fashion to Ridgeland for more than 14 years and offers clothing, shoes, and accessories from brands like Joie, Loeffler Randall, Ulla Johnson, and rag & bone.

118 West Jackson Street, Ste. 2B, Ridgeland, MS 39157 (601) 707-5656Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Holiday shopping can be tiresome, so visit Drench Day Spa + Lash Studio for a quick, mid-day refresh. Services include massages, facials, eyelash extensions, microblading, waxing, and more. They also offer gift certificates and spa packages that make great gifts, too!

1270 East County Line Rd., Ridgeland, MS 39157 (601) 977-9258Hours: Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; closed Sunday

If youre shopping for someone who loves to cook, pay a visit to The Everyday Gourmet. From the latest-and-greatest kitchen tools to tableware, cutlery, and cookbooks, youll find goodies from brands like Good Earth, Casafina, and Henckels. They also offer cooking classes for children and adults, which make excellent gifts for the aspiring chef.

141 Township Ave., Ste. 109, Ridgeland, MS 39157 (601) 850-3860Hours: Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; closed Sunday

Offering some of Ridgelands freshest and healthiest olive oil and vinegar, J. Olive Co. is every foodies dream. Popular items include their Tuscan herb olive oil, garlic olive oil, and traditional balsamic condimento. In addition to oil and vinegar, you can also shop gift-worthy items like Brmate tumblers, bread mixes, and candles. (SB TIP: They offer gift sets!)

120 W. Jackson St., Ridgeland, MS 39157 (601) 898-0513Hours: Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; closed Sunday

On the corner of Madison Drive and West Jackson Street, youll find Kinkades Fine Clothing. Offering unique, hard-to-find mens apparel, its the perfect place to shop for suits, ties, jeans, dress shirts, and shoes. The store also offers tailoring services, and theyre happy to come to your home or office for an extra-convenient fitting!

1000 Highland Colony Pkwy., Ste. 5003, Ridgeland, MS 39157 (601) 717-3300Hours: Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.

At Libby Story, they believe fashion is art, so youll find creativity in every piece of clothing, accessory, decor item, and pair of shoes they offer. Providing small-batch, one-of-a-kind, and vintage items, youre sure to find a unique gift for the creative woman in your life.

242 Highway 51, Ridgeland, MS 39157 (601) 605-9123Hours: Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; closed Sunday

As Mississippis premier consignment store, Repeat Street offers 17,000 square feet of unique fashion, furniture, vinyl records, shoes, and accessories. Plus, be sure to visit The Storehouse next door, which hosts over 40 vendors selling art, jewelry, antiques, clothing, and other gift-worthy pieces.

1107 Highland Colony Pkwy., Ste. 105, Ridgeland, MS 39157 (601) 707-5846Hours: Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; closed Sunday

If youre looking for the perfect gift for a new mom or mom-to-be, Row 10 carries a collection of unique and modern childrens clothes and accessories. Owner Katie Miller (who also owns Arco Avenue!) opened the store as a way to carry her eye of fashion over to her young daughter. In addition to clothing and accessories, the store also carries books, blankets, decor, and even self-care goodies for moms.

677 Pear Orchard Rd., Ridgeland, MS 39157 (601) 956-2863Hours: Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; closed Sunday

Whether your giftee is a fan of basking in the summer sun or hitting snow-covered slopes, Sportique offers a large selection of designer swim and ski apparel. Featured brands include Patagonia, The North Face, and Seafolly.

SB TIP: To celebrate the holiday season, Ridgeland hosts Wrap It in Ridgeland through Tuesday, December 21. The city invites you to shop until you drop and retreat to one of its local hotels for a special rate. You also receive a free high-quality shopping bag to hold all of your goodies!

1000 Highland Colony Pkwy., Ste. 9015, Ridgeland, MS 39157 (601) 321-9169Hours: Tuesday through Thursday, 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 4:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.; closed Sunday and Monday

All of that holiday shopping can certainly work up an appetite, so when you need refuel, pay a visit to CAET. With chefs Derek and Jennifer Emerson at the helm, the wine bar is known for its seafood-focused small plates. Standout dishes include the wood-grilled swordfish and pan-seared tripletail.

115 W. Jackson St., Ridgeland, MS 39157 (601) 605-6359Hours: Monday through Thursday, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 4 p.m. to 9:15 p.m.; closed Sunday

Also known for its seafood offerings, Elys Restaurant & Bar was founded by Richard Shapley in 2008. In addition to seafood, Elys offers mouthwatering, top-of-the-line steak in a contemporary, upscale atmosphere. Offerings include barbecued shrimp and grits, ribeye, tenderloin tips, and New England scallops.

1000 Highland Colony Pkwy. Ste. 6001, Ridgeland, MS 39157 (601) 957-3753Hours: Monday through Thursday, 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.; closed Sunday

Koestler Prime has been serving some of Ridgelands best steaks for more than 20 years. In addition to high-quality meat, the restaurant is also known for its seafood and poultry, including the grilled salmon fillet, jumbo fried shrimp, and grilled marinated chicken.

1000 Highland Colony Pkwy., Ste. 5002, Ridgeland, MS 39157 (601) 707-7684Hours: Monday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday, 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.; closed Sunday

Another creation from Chef Derek Emerson, Local 463 uses local ingredients to put a twist on classic Southern comfort food like its Mississippi fruit cobbler, Florida rock shrimp pizza, and fresh lump crabmeat. Plus, be sure to take a look around as you dine, as the restaurant prides itself on supporting local artists and fills its walls with colorful contemporary art.

3999 Harborwalk Dr., Ridgeland, MS 39157 (601) 605-1865Hours: Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

In addition to delicious food and signature cocktails, Pelican Cove Grill offers live music every day of the week. Plus, its located just a stones throw from the Barnett Reservoir, so you can enjoy seafood-centric dishes as you take in stunning waterfront views. Menu offerings include everything from burgers to poboys and salads.

Happy holidays! Enjoy exploring this charming Southern town!

This article is sponsored by Visit Ridgeland. All photography courtesy of Visit Ridgeland.

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This Small Town Is the Ultimate Holiday Shopping Destination - StyleBlueprint