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CNN
6 days ago
- CNN
The best cat backpacks of 2025, tried and tested
The best cat backpacks we tested Best cat backpack: Travel Cat The Navigator Convertible Cat Backpack Best budget cat backpack: Pecute Cat Carrier Backpack The best cat backpacks are absolute game changers, just like the best self-cleaning litter boxes. Speaking as a mom of three adorable but very stubborn felines that detest traditional carriers, they truly make my life easier. Being backpacks, they let us take our cats to places hands-free and offer them a more stimulating experience. That's more advantageous than it sounds. If you live in a city where taking public transportation is more convenient than driving everywhere, for example, using a cat backpack is highly beneficial. If you're multitasking and carrying several things, having your precious cat close to you but out of your way at the same time makes your day run smoothly. And if you've got an adventurous kitty, it's much easier to carry them in a backpack when you're tackling uphills. It's this life-changing aspect of cat backpacks that makes me want to share them with my fellow cat (and small dog) parents. With the help of my big 15-pound cat Arrow, I tested six of the highest-rated models on the market. After hiking, running errands and taking dreaded trips to the vet with each one, Arrow and I agreed these two are the best. Travel Cat The Navigator Convertible Cat Backpack Spacious, robust and feature-rich, there's no doubt this model from Travel Cat is the best cat backpack for adventurous and unadventurous cats alike. Arrow loves it, and so do I. Pecute Pet Carrier Backpack It's a little hard to believe this Arrow-approved model is as cheap as it is, considering how spacious and well made it is. Arrow specifically loved its expandable feature, while I love that its zipper pull tabs have a built-in carabiner to minimize the chances of escape. It only took one outing with the Travel Cat Navigator for Arrow and I to decide it was the best cat backpack of the bunch. It's hard not to love it at first use, as it's beautifully crafted with an appealing yet functional shape, and it features four large mesh windows that make it airy and breathable inside. You can rest assured your fur baby won't overheat in there, even on the hottest days. The interior is tall with a spacious bottom — and by that, I mean spacious enough for a 15-pound cat like Arrow to feel comfortable. Out of all the backpacks he and I tested, this is the only one where he immediately settled down and curled in. That might also be because, in addition to the padded bottom, an extra pad can be installed for added comfort — not that you need it, since one pad is enough to keep the bottom from sagging, even with Arrow weighing it down. That's not the only extra frill you'll find on the 25-pound-capacity Travel Cat Navigator. This is one of the most feature-rich models I tested. Beyond its big side pocket and two mesh water bottle pockets, there's a massive internal pocket (for a tablet, perhaps, to help you pass the time while waiting at the vet's office), a clip to which you can tether your kitty's collar, a big front mesh window you can unzip and roll up, and two adjustable straps inside to cinch the backpack if you have a smaller pet inside. My favorite features here, however, are the zippers whose pull tabs can be buckled together to keep your cats from pulling a Houdini. My other cat Isla, who is a little escape artist, taught herself how to unzip her carrier, so those buckles are incredibly valuable. It doesn't just prioritize your kitty's comfort, however; it takes care of yours as well. This backpack sits well on my back, with its padded back panel and thick, generously padded straps that can be adjusted to sit higher on my back to provide more leverage. Unlike some of its rivals, its bottom back edge doesn't dig into my lower back, which means I can carry it for hours without issue. Honestly, I can't think of a reason why you shouldn't get the Travel Cat Navigator cat backpack for your kitty, except perhaps if you're seeking one with an extension, in which case you should check out my budget pick below. Otherwise, this is the best cat backpack out there. Yes, it's over $100, but considering it feels robust enough to last a while, you're better off getting this one rather than a cheaper one you'll just have to replace later. I was unprepared for how much I'd end up liking the Pecute Cat Carrier Backpack, especially since most of its rivals are more than twice its price. If you go by looks alone, you might think this is a basic cat backpack. I get it; I've been there. Truth be told, this was the very last backpack I tested because its simple, no-nonsense design lacking any fancy frills made it the least interesting to me. But give it a chance and you'll be pleasantly surprised. It's just as spacious and feature-rich as my top pick, and its bottom pad is thick and wrapped in velvety fabric, which is not only soft to the touch but also cat-friendly. Just like the Travel Cat Navigator (though not as airy), it has mesh windows at the top and front, both of which are zippered, as well as several pockets for storage, including one with a cable passthrough for easy phone charging. Similarly, my favorite features here are the carabiner-flaunting zipper pull tabs, which allow you to tether each pair of pull tabs to each other to prevent any wily escape attempts. It's very similar to what the Travel Cat Navigator has, except somehow more sophisticated and more robust, not to mention the most unexpected feature to find in a budget cat backpack. But wait, there's more. Unlike my top pick, it comes with a hip belt, which helps redistribute your fur baby's weight, as well as a back panel that unzips and unfolds into a very spacious mesh annex. This affords your cat a bit more space (and a better view) when you're at the vet's office, at an airport or on a plane. The latter is an incredibly considerate feature to throw in, as most animals don't enjoy being caged, yet it's not all that common with cat backpacks, which is surprising since it doesn't add that much bulk — and, as Pecute has proven, won't cost manufacturers as much to add. The only other model in my testing pool that boasts this feature is the pricier Pidan Expandable Cat Backpack, which doesn't do as elegant a job implementing the idea. The Pecute Cat Carrier Backpack's build quality is the most obvious sign of its low cost. It doesn't feel flimsy, but it also doesn't feel as robust as the winner, and its XL version tops out at 24 pounds in terms of load capacity. Still, it seems sturdy enough to give you a few good years without issue. At least, it was robust enough not to sag with Arrow inside, and believe me, he is neither small nor lightweight. If I were to nitpick, I would redesign the backpack straps to have more padding and adjustability. In its current iteration, this backpack doesn't go as high on my back as I would have liked, so its bottom back edge sits on my lower back. Combine that with its thinly padded straps, and it's not the most comfortable thing to carry on your back. Still, for a $50 cat backpack, you're getting a whole lot of bang for your buck, and if you're looking for a budget option, this is the one to get. Going through several cat carriers over the years has helped me test and assess cat backpacks. I started by evaluating those backpacks as I would regular carriers, using them to take my cats to the vet, then noting the differences in my experience with both. Naturally, since cat backpacks have their advantages over carriers in certain scenarios, I went out of my way to test them in those scenarios as well, like hiking with Arrow or just taking him on short walks around my neighborhood. (Arrow's the only cat in our clowder who's receptive to such activities. The other two would scream bloody murder until I took them home.) I did these tests over several weeks on some of the highest-rated cat backpacks I could get my hands on. In total, I tested six, each of which I evaluated based on the following criteria. Performance Space and capacity: Most cats might find small spaces cozy, but they still need enough space to lie down comfortably, so space was one of my top priorities during assessment. Also, I checked each cat backpack's maximum load capacity to ensure it could carry big cats without issue. Breathability: Especially when it's too hot outside, you want to make sure a cat backpack offers enough airflow for your kitty to breathe and not overheat. Cats love warm places, but you also don't want to keep them in oppressive conditions. Some cat backpacks have mesh windows, others have air slits and some have a combination of both. Safety: Unless you have an adventurous cat that can be comfortable in unfamiliar places, you want to make sure the cat backpack you're using comes with safety measures that prevent their escape. Comfort: A cat backpack not only has to be comfortable for your kitty but also comfortable for you to wear on your back. Imagine those straps digging into your skin or the bottom edge bruising your lower back during a long day of layovers. Design Build quality: A cat backpack doesn't have to be robust enough to withstand everyday wear and tear but should provide a few solid years of use. More importantly, it has to be sturdy enough to carry your cat without sagging at the bottom and not fall apart after a few scratches and bites, especially if you have a heavy kitty or a scratcher (or both). Portability and storage: Because a cat adds weight to a cat backpack, it's good to have a relatively lightweight one. It also helps if its straps are supportive and kind to your shoulders. In addition, a cat backpack that's collapsible for easy storage gets extra points. I usually have mine out in the open and within easy access of my cats so they can get used to them and not freak out when it's time to go to the vet, but some cat parents prefer to put them away. Extra features: Features such as pockets for storage, a leash or harness clip, a rain flap, a mesh extension and more are always nice to have. Cleaning: On our last trip to the vet, my cat Bow had an accident and sprayed all over the cat backpack he was in. I hate cleaning cat carriers, so having a model that's easy to clean — I like the soap and hose-down approach with minimal scrubbing — is a plus. Value Price: Accounting for all the aforementioned criteria, I compared each cat backpack's overall performance during testing to its price as well as to the price of the competition to gauge if it's a better value. As with any other product, choosing a cat backpack depends on your (and, of course, your cat's) personal preferences and needs. So, in addition to my testing criteria above, consider the following metrics before committing to a cat backpack. Type of cat backpack: There are different types of cat backpacks, the most common of which are bubble and soft-sided with mesh windows. However, there are expandable models and models made for hiking as well. Before you hit buy, make sure you've done your research on the different types so you know which one is most ideal for your needs. Size and capacity: I know I've included this in my testing criteria, but it's also highly variable. If you have an adult cat or a pet that's on the small and light side of the spectrum, a massive cat backpack might not serve you and your fur baby as well as a more compact one. On the other hand, if your pet is large and heavy, you'll need a backpack that can accommodate it. Removable mat: Because accidents are highly likely, consider choosing a cat backpack with a removable mat. This way, it's easier to clean the bottom and get to the harder-to-reach crevices and corners. Leash clip: Unless you fully trust your cat not to pull a Houdini, jump out and run away when you have one of the zippered flaps wide open, you'll want a cat backpack with a leash clip so you can tether your kitty to it, ensuring their safety. Not all cat backpacks have a leash clip. Pidan Expandable Cat Backpack There are some things about the Pidan Expandable Cat Backpack I love. First, it's very spacious and breathable inside, thanks in part to its two mesh windows and large mesh roof. I also appreciate its extendable mesh compartment (which has its own back door), its top rollable privacy-slash-rain flap and its included foldable litter box, which comes in handy on long trips. After all, you never know how long that vet visit will take. Selfishly, I also appreciate its sturdy, padded backpack straps, as they don't dig into my skin and can be adjusted high enough for leverage and comfort. Its design is attractive as well, so much so that at least a couple of other cat parents at the vet asked me where I got it from. There's room for improvement here. When folded, the extendable compartment doesn't quite sit flat in the main compartment, taking up about an inch and a half of space. The transparent plastic window doesn't feel very robust either. The max load capacity is only 16 pounds. And finally, unless you have the included litter box tucked in the bottom pocket to moonlight as padding, the bottom isn't padded enough to minimize sink. Roverlund Ready-For-Adventure Pet Backpack The Roverlund Ready-For-Adventure Pet Backpack is made of sturdier materials than the other cat backpacks in my testing pool, including my top pick. It has thick walls, water-resistant lining and a thick leash clip and handle. It also has robust back and bottom pads, both of which are removable if your pet doesn't need the extra protection and you don't want the added bulk. This pack is very clearly built for adventure, as its name suggests, and to ensure your pet isn't overheating inside while you're on a wilderness trek, it has two big zippered mesh windows on each side as well as a zippered mesh top panel. Unzip those, and your fur baby can stick their head out and enjoy some fresh mountain air. Unfortunately, for something made for adventure and boasting a 25-pound capacity, it feels bulky and, ironically, tight in the main compartment. If you have a cat that likes small, dark spaces, they may take to this cat backpack; otherwise, there are more spacious options for your feline. Fat Cat Backpack Carrier The Fat Cat Backpack Carrier is, in my opinion, the most adorable cat backpack of the bunch. Beyond its good looks, it's spacious and has a few good features as well, namely the two decently sized mesh pockets on its sides, a rollable top and a leash clip. What sets this pack apart from the rest is that it blends the best elements of the two most common cat backpack types. It's what I would recommend if you want a bubble type but don't necessarily trust that it has enough airflow inside. Because its front panel is swappable, you can replace the preinstalled mesh plastic with the included transparent dome window, which allows your kitty to stick its tiny face out and enjoy the scenery. Meanwhile, the side mesh windows and mesh top, along with the air holes on the dome and front panel, provide ample airflow. The thing I don't like about it, however, is that its bottom edge sits directly on my hip bone, regardless of its straps' length. This might not matter if you have a longer torso, but if you have a similar body structure to mine and have a heavier passenger in the pack, you may feel it digging into your hip, which is not ideal. Petkit Cat Backpack Carrier I can't confirm if it was Taylor Swift who popularized the bubble cat backpack. All I know is I've wanted one since I saw her using it during one of her tours a few years back, so I'm sad to say the novelty has already worn off. I appreciate the bubble type's hard-shell approach. There are benefits to it, including added protection and more structure. However, as appealing as the Petkit Cat Backpack Carrier is, its design is plagued with potential complications. For example, it has several vents as well as two small mesh windows on the side, but it doesn't feel breathable in there. Petkit must have realized this, because the brand included a small fan. Unfortunately, the fan isn't strong enough, makes a bit of noise that might startle an already stressed-out cat and doesn't come with a built-in battery. Meanwhile, the main compartment is not only tight but also hard to manage when you're trying to put an unwilling cat inside. If you've ever handled a kitty that will scratch, bite and claw its way out of being placed in a carrier, you know the way this backpack is designed to open and close is not conducive to that scenario. The backpack straps also need more padding and adjustability so the backpack won't sit too low on your back. I really want to like this cat backpack, and if you've read my self-cleaning litter box guide, you know I'm a fan of Petkit, but sadly I feel like it needs to go back to the drawing board with this one. Are cat backpacks safe for cats? Are cat backpacks safe for cats? Absolutely. Many cat owners use a cat backpack for trips to the vet, hikes and even cross-country road trips. When choosing a cat backpack, make sure it's spacious enough for your kitty. Can you bring a cat backpack onto a flight? Can you bring a cat backpack onto a flight? Airlines typically require a pet carrier to fit under the seat in front of you. As long as a cat backpack meets that requirement, you should be able to bring it on board just like a regular carrier. Before your flight, however, make sure to double-check your airline's specific pet carrier requirements to ensure you're meeting them. When is it better to use a cat backpack over a cat carrier? When is it better to use a cat backpack over a cat carrier? That largely depends on your preference as well as your cat's needs and comfort level. Some say cat backpacks are better for short trips, while carriers are ideal for longer trips since they're bigger, but I've used small carriers and tested expandable cat backpacks, so that's not a hard-and-fast rule. The one situation where a hard-shell carrier is most ideal is if you have to check your pet. However, checking a pet means they'll end up in the cargo hold, which is risky. Unless you absolutely must, I would avoid this scenario. CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors with many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products who ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we test each product accurately and only recommend the best products while considering the pros and cons of each item. Testing writer Michelle Rae Uy has years of experience covering pet gear and writing pet product reviews. She's written several pet-specific guides, including the best automatic cat feeders and the best pet water fountains. She's a devoted cat mom to Arrow, Bow and Isla.
Forbes
21-07-2025
- Automotive
- Forbes
Looking Back At Genesis' Cutest And Most Outrageous Concept Car
Designed around city living, the Mint brings luxury on a small scale Cast your mind back to 2019, with no idea of what was to come, the world was quietly optimistic about entering the 2020s. Before city life as we know it was swiftly dismantled, Genesis unveiled its Mint concept, a two-seater compact luxury model aimed at taking the stress out of city driving. Although it's not made its way into production, glimpses of the concept have appeared in things like the GV60's crystal ball feature. To find out what made the Mint so special and such a step away from the rest of the brand's lineup, I spoke with Luc Donckerwolke, Chief Creative Officer and President of Hyundai Motor Group. It may be small in stature but it's pocket-sized luxury Trinity Francis: What was the initial brief for the Mint concept? Luc Donckerwolke: The brief was to demonstrate that luxury is not linked to size. To the contrary. Size imposes limitations. Genesis should make evident that our Son-nim, our honored guests, can be treated to the highest level of refinement, technological advancement and groundbreaking design regardless of size. Francis: How did you maximize interior space? Donckerwolke: The flat floor of the electric platform allowed a better distribution of the furniture to optimize ergonomics—in the spirit of Alec Issigonis when he created the original Mini. The interior is structured like a living space, with a sofa and an instrument panel that both rotate around their middle axis to facilitate ingress and egress. There is no big screen, rather circular digital touchscreens surround the steering wheel to allow instinctive commands without losing sight of the road or contact with the steering wheel. Usually scissor doors make a statement on supercars but Genesis decided to reinvent the idea. Francis: Can you explain the design process behind the rear reverse-opening scissor doors? Donckerwolke: The concept was created while observing the illogical approach to accessing a vehicle's cargo area—the user having to go first to the rear of the vehicle, leaving the sidewalk to deposit his or her shopping bags, and then return to the side to enter the vehicle. A side trunk access through scissor doors that do not intrude on the sidewalk is therefore practical and logical. Francis: How was technology integrated into the interior design? Donckerwolke: The vehicle features every function a driver needs, but the displays are unobtrusive. The small gauge cluster sits within the steering wheel itself, further augmenting the perception of space, and the six small readouts—finished in copper to allude to the vehicle's electric power source—around the steering wheel added a high-end, luxurious aspect to the concept's interior design. The interior matches minimalism with ease of use Francis: Can you explain the interior and exterior colour choices? Donckerwolke: The matt mint green and cognac leather colorways are a nod towards traditional luxury cars but done in a more modern and fashionable way. The Mint's diminutive size is already a step away from tradition—most luxury cars are quite a bit larger—but we sought to accentuate the modernity of the concept by playing with more contemporary colors. Francis: How has it (or not) influenced Genesis production models since and why? Donckerwolke: Concept cars like the Mint are designed to communicate the design philosophy and the design elements to the audience. The quad lamps that transport the brand's Two Lines signature and the G-Matrix graphics—first seen on the Essentia concept but also repeated in the interior of the Mint—were carried over into production, as was the parabolic line on the side and the concave section at the rear of the car. At their core, concept and show cars allow us to push the envelope, experiment, and see what is possible. It allowed the design team to escape their comfort zones and devise solutions—such as the rear doors—that are truly fresh and innovative. The charging port is located just above the Genesis lettering at the rear Francis: Were there any inspirations that influenced the design? If so, what were these and why were they influential? Donckerwolke: The Mint concept was one of the first instances where we showcased our Beauty of White Space interior design philosophy. This is derived from a Korean aesthetic, in which design is pared back and minimalistic, accentuating certain details but leaving space between these elements to bring a sense of calmness to the cabin. European furniture also utilizes the concept of minimalism to great effect, emphasizing clean lines to avoid clutter and focus on the essential. Craftsmanship is another aspect that is visible in both cultures; this is represented in high-quality materials such as the cognac leather and gunmetal balustrade. Francis: What is your favourite element of the design and why? Donckerwolke: My favorite aspects of the design are its atypical three-box typology and the clean, uncluttered, and genuinely luxurious cabin. We achieved this by looking at what modern city dwellers value in their daily lives and home décor and devised an appealing product that is very much aligned with Genesis' values as a brand. For now, we'll have to wait and see if the Mint ever materializes in a production form Francis: What were the key challenges in this project? Donckerwolke: Some of the key challenges were to get internals to appreciate that luxury could be found in small packages. That is not typically the case. When luxury buyers look to a vehicle purchase these are often very large vehicles that have a big footprint. Traditionally this conveys status, which is synonymous with luxury. We had to turn that preconceived notion on its head to develop a car that blends classic proportions with modern, minimalist, and luxurious design but that is compact enough to fit in modern day metropolises. Francis: Are we likely to see any Mint-like concepts or a production Mint from Genesis in the future? Donckerwolke: Stay tuned.
UAE Moments
15-07-2025
- General
- UAE Moments
9 Indoor Plants That Practically Thrive on Neglect
Living in a fast-paced city can leave little time for plant care. But a touch of greenery boosts mood, improves air quality, and livens up your space—without demanding daily attention. That's where indoor plants that practically thrive on neglect come in. These plants are perfect for professionals balancing work, social life, and apartment living. In this guide, you'll find nine of the easiest-to-care-for houseplants—plus care tips, placement advice, and smart hacks to help them flourish despite erratic schedules and low light. Whether you're a total beginner or just forgetful, these tough plant picks will add life to your home—and survive your busy rhythm. Why Hardy Plants Fit City Living Low-maintenance plants are ideal for apartment life. They tolerate low light, indoor heating, and forgetful watering schedules—common urban challenges. Studies show even a few resilient plants can improve concentrate and reduce stress. For young professionals, these greenery companions offer mental health perks without the guilt of neglect or fuss. They're reliable roommates that brighten your space—and won't die when life gets busy. Plant #1: Snake Plant (Sansevieria) Hardiness: Tolerates shade, drought, irregular water Care: Water every 2–3 weeks; thrives in bright to low, indirect light. This classic tough plant can survive in near-darkness and withstand infrequent watering, even rebounding from dry soil. Its vertical leaves add a modern, sculptural vibe to any city apartment. Bonus: it also filters indoor air pollutants . Plant #2: ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) Hardiness: Thrives in low light; rhizomes store water Care: Water once a month or less With glossy, dark-green stems and thick leaves, ZZ plants survive sub-30-minute watering routines and dim lighting. Their drought-tolerant rhizomes make them nearly indestructible—a plant that actually likes to be forgotten. Plant #3: Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) Hardiness: Low light and erratic watering friendly Care: Water only when soil is dry; tolerates varied light Pothos is an easy vine with heart-shaped leaves that adapts to almost any lighting situation. It grows fast, brightens shelves, and keeps its foliage even after a few missed waterings . Plant #4: Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum) Hardiness: Thrives with minimal care; pet-safe Care: Water weekly; prefers bright, indirect light Spider plants are known for their air-cleaning abilities and baby 'pups' that sprout easily. They resist drying out and revive well after drought—plus they're safe around pets. Plant #5: Aloe Vera Hardiness: Drought-resilient succulent Care: Water every 2–3 weeks; needs indirect bright light Aloe is perfect for city life—just a little water and moderate light, and it'll thrive. Bonus hack: use its gel to treat minor burns, making it both decorative AND useful. Plant #6: Jade Plant (Crassula ovata) Hardiness: Slow-growing, water-storing succulent Care: Water once every 3–4 weeks; bright indirect light Jade thrives on neglect. Its thick, fleshy leaves store water, making it forgiving of irregular schedules—and it adds a minimalist, zen vibe to a desk or shelf . Plant #7: Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior) Hardiness: Nearly indestructible—even in low light Care: Water every 4–6 weeks; tolerates temperature swings True to its name, this plant is rugged. It tolerates dim corners and temperature fluctuations, making it ideal for forgetful plant parents and spaces with air conditioning or draft zones. Plant #8: Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema) Hardiness: Shade‑tolerant and forgiving of occasional neglect Care: Water when soil feels dry; thrives in indirect light The Chinese Evergreen offers decorative leaves and hardy survival. It helps filter indoor air and withstands inconsistent environmental conditions. Plant #9: Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica) Hardiness: Large leaves need minimal care Care: Water every 2–3 weeks; low to medium indirect light With glossy, bold foliage, rubber plants make a dramatic statement. They survive low-traffic care, but occasional leaf-wiping keeps them dust-free and thriving in apartments. Tips for Caring Less—and Loving More Choose well-draining soil to prevent root rot from overwatering. Ensure pots have drainage holes, and empty excess water after watering. In low-light rooms, use mirrors or grow lights to boost light exposure. Avoid common pest-prone plants; stick to hardy picks above for simplicity. Quick Takeaways Nine indoor plants can survive low light and irregular care. Options include succulents, and shade-tolerant greenery. Minimal watering cycles: monthly or bi-monthly. Use drainage-friendly pots and soil. Air quality and mood benefits come almost for free. Great for homes, offices, and apartments. Pet-safe options included. City life doesn't have to be plant-unfriendly. These nine tough-as-nails houseplants thrive despite stale air, questionable lighting, and sporadic watering. From the sculptural Snake Plant to the air-purifying Spider Plant and the drought-resistant succulents, each pick offers beauty, resilience, and mental wellness aids. For mid-20s urban dwellers, they strike the perfect balance—vibrant greenery that complements your space without demanding your schedule. Stick to a weekly check-in, maintain simple care routines, and you'll be a proud plant parent—even with a packed workflow and limited time. Let nature be your daily reset, no green thumb required. FAQs What low-light indoor plants are easiest to care for? Snake Plant, ZZ Plant, Cast Iron Plant, Chinese Evergreen —these thrive with minimal light and water. Can I overwater these 'neglect' plants? Yes—most prefer to fully dry out between watering. Watch for yellow leaves as a sign of overwatering. Do these plants help improve indoor air quality? Absolutely—Spider Plant, Snake Plant, Rubber Plant, and Chinese Evergreen are known for their air-filtering abilities. Are these plants safe for pets? Spider Plant and Snake Plant are generally safe; avoid Aloe, Rubber Plant, or ZZ Plant if you have curious pets. How should I care for them during winter? Water less (every 4–6 weeks), keep them away from cold drafts, and supplement low light with gentle grow lights if needed.
Times
14-06-2025
- Business
- Times
‘Downsize, make money and have fun': the retirees moving to the city
Claire Carter has been selling country houses for 24 years, and she's noticed a sea change in attitudes. Twenty years ago empty nesters would downsize from a big country house to a village. 'They no longer move to villages, they move to cities,' says Carter, head of country houses at John D Wood & Co. 'They want something that's socially more interesting, with everything on your doorstep.' The dream of retiring to a bungalow in a sleepy seaside town or peaceful village is looking increasingly out of touch. Retiring to a city, after all, makes sense. Public transport in the countryside is notoriously poor, waiting times for GPs in rural areas are terrible and the best hospitals are in big cities. Living near adult children is another draw. Cities are also full of life. Henry Sherwood, founder of the Buying Agents, moved a retired couple from Cheltenham to Islington, north London. 'Their approach was that when you retire you have more time on your hands to do the things you enjoy, so why move to an area where there is less to do?' Older people also have increasingly younger mindsets. 'Most of my clients are older or retired age,' Carter says. 'And they've got Pelotons in the garage. One client, every time I ring him he's playing padel. They're more active, they're more social. It's so different now. It's a whole new life for them. So instead of moving to a bungalow when your health isn't good, they're getting ahead of the game: we're going to downsize, get some money out of this and have some fun.' One of Carter's clients, the empty-nesters John Dryden, 62, and his wife, Louise, 52, recently sold their five-bedroom house in four acres of East Sussex. John retired from running his travel business in November and Louise has retired from catering. In January they bought a three-bedroom, 1,700 sq ft apartment in the city of Brighton & Hove. It has two terraces and overlooks a busy park. They moved in May and have a spring in their step. 'Moving back to a city, it's amazing, it's buzzing,' John says. 'We go down to the park, it's all families, people playing tennis, people walking dogs. Stuck out in the country, we had lots of friends, but you don't always see people day to day.' 'The first night we moved in here, we ordered in from an Indian restaurant, and it was delivered bang! Twenty minutes, beautiful food. Last night we had Thai delivered, we have a Waitrose around the corner, everything is extremely easy.' The couple didn't want to be slaves to their garden. 'We've got seven tennis courts below us now, we're very active, we play padel … And we wanted the buzz: to get back into the bars, restaurants, theatres and exhibitions, cinema. Bring it on.' They've got rid of one of their two cars. 'We plan to cycle more, walk a lot more. We're walking to the supermarket rather than driving.' The average price for a two-bedroom flat in Brighton & Hove in 2024 was £314,400, according to Hamptons. John declined to say what they paid, but came out ahead financially from downsizing, leaving them enough to enjoy retirement and travel. They go abroad every winter and wanted a home that's easy to lock up and leave. And they reckon their flat is 40 per cent cheaper to run than their old house, but also big enough to accommodate their two adult children — and future grandchildren — when they visit. Other retired people are opting for bigger cities. According to a 2023 study by Age UK, there are almost 1.4 million older people (over the age of 60) living in London, the capital's fastest-growing demographic. A 2021 survey found a 15 per cent increase in the number of over-65s retiring to inner London in the past decade, according to solicitors Bird & Co, who used figures from the Office for National Statistics. Over-50s made up 8 per cent of all people moving into London from across Britain in 2022, according to Hamptons and ONS. Leafy outer boroughs like Havering, Bromley and Bexley have the highest percentage of over-60s, but central areas like Kensington & Chelsea and the City are in the top ten. Shaun Hargreaves Heap, 73, and his wife, Lyndsey Stonebridge, 61, recently moved into the heart of the capital. After their children left for university, they sold their five-bedroom house in Norwich, where he has lived for 40 years. In January they bought a two-bedroom, 960 sq ft flat in Bloomsbury for £960,000 from Greater London Properties. • Bloomsbury named one of the best places to live in London 2025 Hargreaves Heap, an economics professor, still works two days a week at King's College London, and his wife still works at University of Birmingham. 'I'm well past retirement age but academics really never stop working,' Hargreaves Heap says. 'Although there were work considerations, we made a conscious choice that we would like to be in central London because of what it offers in retirement. It's very cool for my wife to be able to use the British Library. For me, I can walk to King's, all the major galleries, all the major theatres, museums. And Bloomsbury has an amazing amount of green space, with so many squares. Russell Square is a wonderful place for seeing lots of people enjoying themselves.' They frequent the shops, cafés and restaurants of Marchmont Street and Lamb's Conduit Street (the Italian Ciao Bella is their favourite). And they walk to the Waitrose and Curzon Bloomsbury cinema in the Brunswick Centre. • It's not downsizing, it's 'rightsizing': how to move later in life He couldn't see themselves retiring to the usual retirement enclaves. 'In a seaside village, you just don't have theatres, galleries and museums. As you get older, you sort of appreciate the ability to see what the human species is capable of.' George McKerracher, 65, and his wife, Di, 60 have always been city people. George retired ten years ago from his job as a senior director at Asda, and Di two years ago as chair of a health company. Until recently, they lived in a three-bedroom 1,800 sq ft penthouse with a terrace in the centre of Leeds (it's now for sale for £1.095 million with Zenko City Living). To be closer to family, they've bought a three-bedroom duplex in a listed townhouse in the West End of Glasgow, for which they paid over £800,000. 'Glasgow is a fantastic city,' George says. 'In the West End, the university is there, the botanic gardens, it's a cultural hotspot, with all the restaurants, coffee shops, cinemas. Di and I have breakfast out three times a week. The only thing is it rains 100 days a year, but the airport is a 20-minute Uber ride away.' Why not retire to a peaceful village? 'We're not ready for that. We're still youngsters at heart. We are very active. We've got lots of friends. We walk a lot. We go to the gym three times a week. We travel. We have annual Bupa checks. I don't like the word retirement. When Alex Ferguson retired, he said, I can tell you one thing I'm not going to do: buy a pair of slippers. I identify with that.' • Priced-out, stressed-out creatives are fleeing London for Glasgow McKerragher still dabbles in business and investing. 'But we'd had enough of the cut and thrust and have a whole list of other things that we want to do. If we don't do it now, when will we do it?' Apart from crime, the case against retiring to cities is the high cost of urban property. Carter says her clients usually come out in the black because they are downsizing. 'Most people want to walk away with change, to help the kids out or put a bit in the pension pot, and cover moving costs,' Carter says. 'I had clients who sold a chocolate-box house in the countryside in three acres for £1.8 million and bought a terrace in Clapham [south London] for £1.5 million.' While rural and seaside locations are still the most popular overall for retirees, the retirement home industry is noticing a shift in sentiment. James Lloyd, Director of Policy at Associated Retirement Community Operators, said: 'Integrated Retirement Community operators are responding, with a new trend toward urban developments clearly observable in places like London, Chester and Bristol. While country locations remain popular, we think that in ten years, there will be an Integrated Retirement Community in every town centre.' It's a far cry from the old days. 'Back then, every bungalow that came on the market, you knew who you were selling to,' Carter recalls. 'If I said to some of my clients now, here's a bungalow, they'd laugh at me. That's not what they're looking for. They want something modern, interesting, with more life going on. They're not just downsizing, waiting for the end.'
Forbes
14-05-2025
- Health
- Forbes
These Three Cities Honored For Their Public Health Achievements
Yes, the world is becoming more city, as I've described before in Forbes. That's city with a 'c,' meaning an increasing percentage of the world's population is living in urban settings. That means that cities are playing increasing roles in more and more people's health. That role can be bad if cities allow pollution, crime, accidents and other health threats to grow. Or it can be good as evidenced by the three cities that earned the 2025 Partnership for Healthy Cities Awards given during the 2025 edition of the Partnership for Healthy Cities Summit held in March in Paris, France. The Summit was co-hosted by Bloomberg Philanthropies, the World Health Organization (WHO), Vital Strategies, and, of course, the City of Paris. It brought together mayors and officials from 61 different cities around the world that are already part of the Partnership for Healthy Cities network. Kelly Larson, MPH, who directs this Partnership for Bloomberg Philanthropies, indicated that this global network now has all told 74 cities. It was initially launched in 2017 and has steadily grown since. 'The first step in joining this network is to have buy in from the mayor or the equivalent,' she explained. 'It includes high, middle and low income cities.' She added, 'We've identified specific non-communicable disease or injury issues that the cities can choose from to work on: tobacco, food policy, road safety, overdose prevention, pollution surveillance and most recently dealing with heat.' During the Summit the participants discussed the biggest public health issues facing cities and the world and how to, you know, actually do something about these issues rather than just blame others. This Partnership includes a Policy Accelerator that offers training and support for cities do things like what the three honored cities have done. Those cities won their awards because they made good concrete in preventing either noncommunicable diseases or injuries or both. In a statement, Michael R. Bloomberg, founder of Bloomberg L.P. and Bloomberg Philanthropies, WHO Global Ambassador for Noncommunicable Diseases and Injuries, and 108th mayor of New York City reminded everyone, 'Noncommunicable diseases, including heart disease, cancer, and diabetes, and injuries are responsible for more than 80% of all deaths globally, but the good news is: They are preventable.' So without further ado, here are the three winners and what they do and have done: WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus praised the winners by saying in statement, "Cities are at the forefront of the fight against noncommunicable diseases and injuries. The progress made in Córdoba, Fortaleza, and Greater Manchester is not only improving health today but also setting a model for others to follow.' These awardees have shown what being committed to improving the health and lives their residents and following scientific evidence can do. That's something that you don't always see at the national government level these days. For example, in the U.S., recent major cuts in public health personnel, funding and resources may make you wonder how much commitment there is to improving the health of the population. There's also been substantial cuts in what the U.S. is providing to major organizations that have been providing health and public health services around the world. All of this means that unless someone else steps up to fill these new gaps, the health of people around the world could suffer. That means that an increasing proportion of the public health responsibiilties could fall on the shoulders of cities. Larson acknowledged 'This is a challenging time for public health around the world.' But she was optimistic about what cities can do and has been by the commitments that she has seen with cities and their mayors. 'I believe in the power of cities.' She pointed out what happened in New York City when Bloomberg was mayor, 'Life expectancies in NYC increased by 3 years. We can prioritize cities and public health using model of Mike's tenure as mayor.' In other words, a city situation could end up being quite good.
