Hong Kong Embraces Wealthy Middle East Visitors to Boost Tourism
Quick to embrace the trend are the Grand Hyatt, which last year introduced the Koran in rooms, adapted its saunas and steam rooms and added alcohol-free options to minibars, and Chinesology, a high-end restaurant at the International Financial Center where UBS Group AG and Millennium Management have offices. It now offers 20 Chinese dishes and two tasting menus halal-friendly, with prices ranging from HK$880 to HK$1,388 ($113-$179) per person.
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Yahoo
an hour ago
- Yahoo
Soybeans Holding onto Gains at Midday
Soybeans are holding higher at midday, with 1 to 2 ½ cent gains on Wednesday. The cmdtyView national average new crop Cash Bean price is up 2 1/2 cents at $9.78. Soymeal futures are back down 30 to 40 cents/ton. Soy Oil is back to higher trade at midday, with gains of 56 points. USDA's weekly Export Sales date is expected to show between 100,000 and 350,000 MT of old crop soybeans sold in the week ending on 7/17, with 250,000 to 500,000 MT seen for new crop. Soybean meal is expected to see between 250,000 and 550,000 MT, with 0 to 20,000 MT seen for new crop. More News from Barchart Coffee Prices Rise on Frost Threats in Brazil Frost Threats in Brazil Push Coffee Prices Sharply Higher Signs of Weak Chocolate Demand Undercut Cocoa Prices Markets move fast. Keep up by reading our FREE midday Barchart Brief newsletter for exclusive charts, analysis, and headlines. Japan and the US agreed to a trade deal that was announced late on Tuesday. Tariffs will be set at 15% starting August 1. The US and Indonesia also agreed to a deal, which would set US tariffs on Indonesian goods at 19% on most goods, with Indonesia eliminating most tariffs on US goods. Ahead of a meeting with Chinese counterparts, Treasury Secretary Bessent expects to see the tariff deadline of August 12 extended. Rain is expected to continue across much of the Corn Belt in the next week, with lighter totals seen in the Southern Plains. Aug 25 Soybeans are at $10.12, up 1 3/4 cents, Nearby Cash is at $9.75 1/2, up 1 3/4 cents, Sep 25 Soybeans are at $10.10 1/2, up 2 1/2 cents, Nov 25 Soybeans are at $10.28, up 2 1/2 cents, New Crop Cash is at $9.78, up 2 1/2 cents, On the date of publication, Austin Schroeder did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. This article was originally published on
Associated Press
an hour ago
- Associated Press
7 Best Tibet Tours & How to Travel; Visas, permits & the Best Times to Visit Tibet
Tibet, perched high on the Tibetan Plateau, is a land of spiritual mystique, rugged Himalayan landscapes, and time-honored traditions. From the golden roofs of Lhasa to the wild remoteness of Everest Base Camp and the mythic pilgrimage routes around sacred Mount Kailash, no destination stirs the curiosity of travelers quite like the 'Roof of the World.' But in 2025, travel to Tibet is unique: Independent exploration is currently prohibited, and all international visitors must join structured Tibet tours with authorized agencies. This ensures cultural protection, sustainable tourism, and an extraordinary depth of experience through the region's finest guides and itineraries. In this definitive guide, we explore why regulated Tibet tours are a must, break down every step of the visa and permit process (including new 2025 rules and exemptions), review the best times of year to go—and present seven standout tours for every style of traveler. Why You Need to Join Tibet Tours Unlike many other global destinations, traveling to Tibet is tightly regulated. Independent travel for foreigners is not permitted. Regulations require all international visitors to: Book Tibet tours with a licensed local travel agency Obtain a Tibet Tourism Bureau (TTB) permit (often called a Tibet Travel Permit) Be accompanied by an official guide at all times during their stay These policies safeguard local culture, support community economies, and minimize the impact of tourism in a fragile, high-altitude environment. The permit system and guide requirement have been in place for decades, and were reaffirmed in 2025 amid Tibet's continued popularity and environmental challenges. Essential Documentation for Tibet Tours in 2025 International travel to Tibet involves a sequence of legal documents explicitly required for foreign visitors. Here's how the process works as of 2025: Chinese Tourist Visa (L Visa) — or Visa-Free Entry Requirement: All non-Chinese nationals, unless they are from newly included visa-free countries, must obtain a Chinese tourist visa before entering mainland China. Visa-Free Countries (as of 2025): Citizens from 38 countries—including France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and more—enjoy up to 30 days of visa-free entry for tourism. Others, such as Singapore, Thailand, and Georgia, also have similar privileges. Note: Even for visa-exempt travelers, joining an official Tibet tour and obtaining a TTB permit is still mandatory. Tibet Travel Permit (TTB Permit) What is it? The TTB Permit is issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau, required for entry to any site in the Tibet Autonomous Region. It is not possible to board a plane or train to Lhasa without showing this document. How to get it: Your chosen, registered travel agency will apply for the TTB permit once your itinerary is set and you've provided copies of your passport and Chinese visa. Timeline: Start the application process 20–30 days before your intended arrival. The permit is delivered physically in a Chinese city or at your entry point. Additional Special Permits If your Tibet tour heads beyond Lhasa (for example, to Shigatse, Everest Base Camp, or remote monasteries), further permits are required, all managed by your agency: Alien's Travel Permit: Required for areas including Shigatse, Gyantse, Everest Base Camp. Military Permit: Needed for travels to Mt. Kailash, border regions, and other sensitive zones. Entering Tibet from Nepal If arriving via Kathmandu, a 'Group Visa' issued by the Chinese Embassy in Nepal replaces a standard Chinese visa. Your tour agency arranges this for your entire party. Best Time to Visit: When to Book Tibet Tours The Tibet Plateau features dramatic weather shifts and a unique high-altitude climate. Expert agencies help travelers determine the ideal travel season based on health, interests, and regional conditions. Spring (April to Early June) Pros: Fewer visitors, blooming wildflowers, crisp views of snow peaks, mild days. Best for: Culture-focused tours, photography, city and monastery sightseeing. Summer (Mid June to August) Pros: Warmest temperatures, vibrant local festivals, lush valleys, longer expedition options. Consider: This is Tibet's rainy season, but showers are usually brief. High season means more visitors. Best for: Festivals, overland routes, travel with children. Autumn (September to Early October) Pros: The absolute best weather—clear skies, golden meadows, and comfortable temps. Best for: Trekking (Kailash, Namtso), Everest Base Camp, scenic photography. Winter (November to March) Pros: Snow-blanketed landscapes, solitude, and dramatic temple scenes under blue skies. Caution: Extremely cold outside Lhasa. Some routes may close. Not suitable for high-altitude trek novices. Best for: Photography, budget trips, spiritual retreats, and cultural city tours. 7 Best Tibet Tours: Itineraries for Every Kind of Explorer Tibet tours are finely tuned for cultural savants, adventure seekers, spiritual sojourners, and those with limited time. The following seven travel packages, commonly available through reputable licensed agencies, represent the most popular and meaningful ways to explore the region: Lhasa Holy City Tour (4 Days) This is the essential cultural primer for lhasa city tour. The tour focuses on Lhasa, Tibet's capital and spiritual beacon. Itinerary Highlights: Potala Palace: UESCO-protected former home of the Dalai Lama, towering above Lhasa's skyline. Jokhang Temple: Spiritual heart of Tibetan Buddhism, alive with chanting pilgrims. Barkhor Street: Ancient market circuit, perfect for traditional crafts and people-watching. Sera & Drepung Monasteries: Among Tibet's 'Great Three,' home to monks, debates, and ancient rituals. Why choose this tour? Ideal for those with limited time or a focus on culture and architecture. Minimal altitude changes make it accessible. Lhasa & Yamdrok Lake Tour (5 Days) Combine history and natural beauty on a short but spectacular route. Itinerary Highlights: All of Lhasa's main sites (see above) Day trip to Yamdrok Lake: A high-altitude turquoise lake, ringed by snowy peaks and beloved by locals for its spiritual significance. Stunning photo stops over mountain passes. Encounters with nomadic yak herders along the lakeshore. Who is this for? Nature lovers and photographers; those keen to blend city and landscape in just one week. Lhasa to Shigatse Golden Route Tour (6 Days) Covers iconic high-altitude terrain and traditional towns along Tibet's 'Golden Route.' Itinerary Highlights: Full Lhasa experience (Potala, Jokhang, Barkhor) Scenic drive through the Kamba La and Karo La mountain passes Gyantse: Historic trade town, with the magnificent Gyantse Kumbum stupa Shigatse: Home of Tashilhunpo Monastery and the Panchen Lama's seat Cross magnificent lakes, valleys, and farming villages Why pick this tour? It's a classic template for first-time overlanders or those seeking a bit of everything—culture, landscape, small-town hospitality. Everest Base Camp Tour (8 Days) For many, reaching Everest Base Camp (EBC) is the highlight of all Tibet tours. Itinerary Highlights: All Lhasa highlights Golden Route to Shigatse and Shegar Rongbuk Monastery: The world's highest monastery, with spectacular Everest views Camping or guesthouse stay at North Everest Base Camp, with the chance to photograph Everest at sunset and sunrise Who should book this tour? Adventure seekers, photographers, and anyone who dreams of standing at the foot of the world's highest peak. Lhasa, Everest, and Namtso Lake Tour (10 Days) This itinerary wraps together spiritual Lhasa, Everest, and one of Tibet's most spectacular lakes. Itinerary Highlights: Complete Lhasa/Golden Route/Everest Base Camp journey Drive through the wild northern plateau Namtso Lake: World-famous for its surreal beauty, nestled among snow peaks and salt flats, a sacred site for pilgrims Encounters with nomadic communities Opportunities for short hikes, yak spotting, and birdwatching Why this tour? For those with time to linger, combining Tibet's greatest natural and cultural icons. Beijing–Xi'an–Tibet Train Tour (11 Days) Bridging the best of imperial China and Buddhist Tibet, this trans-China adventure features one of the world's great rail journeys. Itinerary Highlights: Beijing: The Forbidden City, Great Wall Xi'an: Terracotta Army, Muslim Quarter food scene World's highest railway across the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau: Watch the transition from grasslands to snowy summits from panoramic train windows Lhasa: Complete Holy City experience Best for? Travelers looking for 'two countries in one trip,' history buffs, and train aficionados. Mt. Kailash & Lake Manasarovar (15 Days) The pilgrimage journey of a lifetime, circling Asia's most sacred mountain. Itinerary Highlights: Lhasa core sites Everest Base Camp stop Long scenic drive through western Tibet, featuring wilderness, barren beauty, geysers, and salt lakes Lake Manasarovar: Holiest of Tibet's many lakes 3-day trekking circuit around Mt. Kailash: Join pilgrims on the 52-kilometer kora, crossing the Dolma La Pass at nearly 5,700 meters Remote monasteries, meditation caves, and encounters with spiritual seekers from across Asia Who will love this tour? Spiritual tourists, trekking enthusiasts, and anyone ready for the ultimate high-altitude challenge. Booking and Agencies Tibet Tours Tibet tours must be arranged with a registered, licensed agency. For a seamless and authentic adventure, it is highly recommended to choose an travel agency to Tibet such as Experience Tibet. With deep local knowledge and years of expertise, they offer up-to-date policy guidance, expedited permits and visa applications, English-speaking Tibetan guides, and comprehensive support throughout your entire journey. Costs and Value: Group tours are generally more affordable, as transport and guide fees are shared. Private tours allow custom routes and greater flexibility but at higher prices. Regardless, 'budget' backpacker travel is not possible due to permit and logistical regulations. New for 2025: Visa-free entry for dozens of nationalities makes access easier for many, but permit requirements remain unchanged. Always start documentation at least one month ahead and stay updated via agency or embassy advisories. Conclusion Tibet tours are far more than a structural requirement—they are your key to unlocking a region of vast horizons, storied history, spiritual intensity, and wild natural wonder. Whether a three-day cultural taster or a pilgrimage to the 'world's navel' at Kailash, you'll find the experience is richer and more profound for the guidance and expertise you receive. In 2025, with new visa-free entry options and enhanced agency support, travelling Tibet is both more accessible and more rewarding than ever—so long as travelers respect local protocols, plan ahead, and embrace the adventure. Media Contact Company Name: Experience Tibet Contact Person: Press Office Email: Send Email Country: United States Website: Source: Setroi
Miami Herald
2 hours ago
- Miami Herald
Tally of Microsoft victims surges to 400 as hackers exploit SharePoint flaw
The number of companies and organizations compromised by a security vulnerability in Microsoft Corp.'s SharePoint servers is increasing rapidly, with the tally of victims soaring more than six-fold in a few days, according to one research firm. Hackers have breached about 400 government agencies, corporations and other groups, according to estimates from Eye Security, the Dutch cybersecurity company that identified an early wave of the attacks last week. That's up from roughly 60 based on its previous estimate provided to Bloomberg News on Tuesday. The security firm said that most of the victims are in the US, followed by Mauritius, Jordan, South Africa and the Netherlands. The National Nuclear Security Administration, the US agency responsible for maintaining and designing the nation's cache of nuclear weapons, was among those breached, Bloomberg reported earlier. The hacks are among the latest major breaches that Microsoft has blamed, at least in part, on China and come amid heightened tensions between Washington and Beijing over global security and trade. The US has repeatedly criticized China for campaigns that have allegedly stolen government and corporate secrets over a period spanning decades. The real number of victims from the SharePoint exploits "might be much higher as there can be many more hidden ways to compromise servers that do not leave traces," Eye Security's co-owner Vaisha Bernard said in an email to Bloomberg News. "This is still developing, and other opportunistic adversaries continue to exploit vulnerable servers." The organizations compromised in the SharePoint breaches include many working in government, education and technology services, Bernard said. There were smaller numbers of victims in countries across Europe, Asia, the Middle East and South America. State-backed hackers tend to exploit major cybersecurity weaknesses, like the SharePoint vulnerability, in waves, according to Sveva Scenarelli, a threat analyst with Recorded Future Inc. They start with secretive, targeted hacks and then, once the vulnerability is discovered, will begin using it more indiscriminately, she said. "Once access has been acquired, individual threat groups can then triage compromised organizations, and prioritize those of particular interest for follow-on activity," said Scenarelli, of the cyber intelligence firm's Insikt Group. She said this can include finding ways to maintain access to a compromised network, burrowing deeper and setting up paths to steal sensitive information. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who is set to meet his Chinese counterparts in Stockholm next week for a third round of trade talks, suggested in a Bloomberg Television interview Wednesday that the SharePoint hacks will be discussed. "Obviously things like that will be on the agenda with my Chinese counterparts," he said. The security flaws allow hackers to access SharePoint servers and steal keys that can let them impersonate users or services, potentially enabling deep access into compromised networks to steal confidential data. Microsoft has issued patches to fix the vulnerabilities, but researchers cautioned that hackers may have already got a foothold into many servers. Microsoft on Tuesday accused Chinese state-sponsored hackers known as Linen Typhoon and Violet Typhoon of being behind the attacks. Another hacking group based in China, which Microsoft calls Storm-2603, also exploited them, according to the company. The Redmond, Washington company has repeatedly blamed China for major cyberattacks. In 2021, an alleged Chinese operation compromised tens of thousands of Microsoft Exchange servers. In 2023, another alleged Chinese attack on Microsoft Exchange compromised senior US officials' email accounts. A US government review later accused Microsoft of a "cascade of security failures" over the 2023 incident. Eugenio Benincasa, a researcher at ETH Zurich's Center for Security Studies who specializes in analyzing Chinese cyberattacks, said members of the groups identified by Microsoft had previously been indicted in the US for their alleged involvement in hacking campaigns targeting US organizations. They are well known for their "extensive espionage," he said. It's likely that the SharePoint breaches are being carried out by proxy groups that work with the government rather than Chinese government agencies directly carrying out the hacking, according to Benincasa. Private hacking companies in the country sometimes participate in "hacker for hire" operations, he added. "Now that at least three groups have reportedly exploited the same vulnerability, it's plausible more could follow," he said. "Cybersecurity is a common challenge faced by all countries and should be addressed jointly through dialogue and cooperation," said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun. "China opposes and fights hacking activities in accordance with the law. At the same time, we oppose smears and attacks against China under the excuse of cybersecurity issues." According to Microsoft, the hacking group Linen Typhoon was first identified in 2012, and is focused on stealing intellectual property, primarily targeting organizations related to government, defense, strategic planning, and human rights. Violet Typhoon, first observed in 2015, was "dedicated to espionage" and primarily targeted former government and military personnel, non-governmental organizations, as well as media and education sectors in the US, Europe, and East Asia. The hackers have also used the SharePoint flaws to break into systems belonging to the US Education Department, Florida's Department of Revenue and the Rhode Island General Assembly, Bloomberg previously reported. Edwin Lyman, director of nuclear power safety for the Union of Concerned Scientists, said that while the National Nuclear Security Administration possesses some of the most restricted and dangerous information in the world, the networks where classified information are stored are isolated from the internet. "So even if those networks were compromised, I'm not sure how such information could have been transmitted to the adversaries," Lyman said in an email. "But there are other categories of information that are sensitive but unclassified, that may be treated with less care and might have been exposed. This includes some information related to nuclear materials and even nuclear weapons." (With assistance from Lucille Liu and Ari Natter.) Copyright (C) 2025, Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Portions copyrighted by the respective providers.
