Category Archives: Uncategorized

When one thinks they have seen the most spectacular places (Palatine Chapel above), this may have been better – simply for the huge size of the church, endless wall mosaics, the unbelievable marble carving in the Chapel of the Crucifix, … Continue reading →

This has become my favourite church easily comparable to the Burgos Cathedral in Spain (or even the lovely tiny church in Fort Good Hope, NWT, Canada). It was built between 1883-1907 on the spot where Alexander II was assassinated. It … Continue reading →

This is Palermo’s top tourist attraction in a city with the most beautiful Christian churches in the world. The chapel was built by Roger II after 1130 using Byzantine, Islamic and Latin artists. Dedicated to St Peter, it has possibly … Continue reading →

Capital and largest city: Rome 41°54′N 12°29′E Official languages: Italian. Ethnic Groups: Italian 91.5%, others 8.5% Religion: 74.4% Catholic Church, 22.6% Irreligious, 3.0% other Formation: Unification March 1861, Republic June 1946, Foundation EEC Jan 1958 Area: Total 301,340 km2 (71st). Water 2.4% Population: 60,483,973 … Continue reading →

Jul 26th 2018 ECONOMIST  “THE age of the downloadable gun formally begins,” proclaims the website of Defence Distributed, a group founded by Cody Wilson, a self-proclaimed crypto-anarchist. A settlement with the State Department at the end of June, reached after … Continue reading →

I don’t pretend to have seen all the best graveyards in the world. But these are certainly the most interesting ones I’ve visited. They are in some order of preference. One could discuss the best environmentally friendly and sustainable way … Continue reading →

Japan’s habits of overwork are hard to change Aug 2nd 2018 ECONOMIST  Yoshishisa Aono could be a model for Japanese executives. The offices of Cybozu, his software company, would appear staid were they in Palo Alto. But they are radical … Continue reading →

STOCKS OR BONDS – IT DEPENDS ON YOUR BUSINESS  ECONOMIST  Aug 23rd 2018 IMAGINE two college friends whose careers have taken different paths. Simon is an investment banker. He works long hours, especially when his bank is advising on a … Continue reading →

How the United Arab Emirates became an oasis for tax evaders – Set up a company, shield your income from prying eyes ECONOMIST Sep 27th 2018 THE war on cross-border tax evasion, declared by America over a decade ago and since … Continue reading →

CONSERVING FISH STOCKS – The Fight Against Illicit Fishing of the Oceans is Moving into Space. Infra-red and radar are detecting illegal operations. Economist Sept 6th 2018 ILLEGAL, unreported and unregulated. The business of off-the-books ocean fishing, abbreviated to IUU … Continue reading →