Francis Lapp (second right) with his family and guests
Sunreef Yachts staged an entertainment-packed outdoor launch ceremony for the Sunreef Lounge in Shanghai, with the new location at the Sunch Yacht Club in Pudong marking a significant milestone in the brand’s global expansion. The event also celebrated the brand’s deepening presence in the Chinese market and its ambition to build a dynamic, nationwide network of luxury lifestyle hubs across Asia.
Francis Lapp, who founded Sunreef Yachts in Poland in 2002, attended the opening of the Sunreef Lounge with his family. China-born Nina Lee Boudoul, Sunreef’s Asia-Pacific Director, was also among senior staff at the riverside event, which featured a dance troupe on stage. The ceremony also welcomed thought leaders and figures from the global yachting and luxury lifestyle sectors, reflecting Sunreef’s growing role in Asia’s high-net-worth community.
The Sunreef Lounge in Shanghai marks the luxury catamaran builder’s second major new location in China, where late last year Lapp also attended the opening of the Sunreef Eco Club at the Citychamp Dartong Yacht Club in Fuzhou, almost 500 miles south of Shanghai. Together, these two clubs demonstrate Sunreef’s long-term strategy to connect with clients across China through immersive luxury hubs dedicated to premium yachting culture and sustainability.
The new Lounge in Shanghai is the latest example of Sunreef’s growing presence in Asia, as well as its ongoing commitment to innovation and craftsmanship in luxury yachting. Strategic partnerships were also announced at the event, including collaborations with Shunchi Yacht Club, a prestigious 5A-rated club in Shanghai and ESD Acoustic, a global leader in high-end sound systems. These alliances aim to elevate the local yachting lifestyle and onboard experiences.
“More than just a showroom, the Sunreef Lounge is a platform designed to foster meaningful connections and shape the future of luxury yachting in China,” the shipyard stated. “It serves as a meeting point for clients, partners and enthusiasts eager to explore the brand’s latest innovations and sustainable solutions in an immersive, refined setting.” Symbolising this community spirit, a new “ILoveSunreef” Shanghai landmark was unveiled during the event by Francis Lapp and Shi Feng, CEO of Shunchi Yacht Club.
Sunreef has two shipyards in the northern Polish city of Gdansk and last year staged the official opening of its UAE production facility in Ras Al Khaimah, which is currently focused on producing the new line of Ultima powercats.
The Ultima 55, the line’s first model, had its world premiere at this year’s Dubai International Boat Show in March and the new Sunreef Lounge in Shanghai will include a focus on the popular new series. The Lounge is also positioned as a showcase for Sunreef’s eco-innovation, targeting a new generation of owners who seek high-performance yachts built with sustainability in mind.
“The Lounge will highlight Sunreef’s cutting-edge designs including the Sunreef Ultima line – a revolutionary concept blending speed, comfort and sustainability,” Sunreef added. At the close of the event, guests received the brand-new ESD Bluetooth tabletop speaker – a symbol of Sunreef’s combination of maritime elegance and refined living.
“With a focus on eco-conscious yachting, the Sunreef Lounge reflects the shipyard’s ambition to inspire a new generation of owners who seek both performance and responsibility. By merging its unique vision of luxury with local culture and sustainable values, Sunreef Yachts is setting the course for a bold and inspiring future in Asia.”
With Shanghai and Fuzhou as starting points, Sunreef plans to continue expanding across China, establishing a network of exclusive lounges designed to inspire, educate and connect future yacht owners, collaborators and enthusiasts in a curated, high-luxury environment.
If you missed 2022 Monterey Car Week in August or were having withdrawals after attending, then hopefully you made it out to the second annual Velocity Invitational held October 14-16, 2022. The luxury motorsport festival had a little bit of everything all rolled into one event with an exciting mix of historic racing, family entertainment, and manufacture displays and demonstrations for spectators to enjoy at the historic Weathertech Raceway Laguna Seca.
New to the lineup this year, with a display in the paddock, was the addition of the Dirtfish Rally School. The rally school, located in the foothills of the Cascade Mountain Range just outside of Seattle, offers a wide range of rally driving programs for anyone looking to have fun while trying to enhance their car control ability. Dirtfish brought out six former rally cars to display as well as perform driving demonstrations on track. Spectators cheered as they sped around the track and drifted through all of the eleven turns at Laguna Seca.
The following list of Rally Cars appeared in the Paddock and several wowed the crowds as they hit the track throughout the weekend.
James Rimmer races this Ford Fiesta Pikes Peak rally car into the Corkscrew during demonstration laps at Velocity Invitational.
Ford Fiesta Pikes Peak – At the 2009 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, Marcus Grönholm drove this 800 bhp, 2-liter engine, all-wheel drive car to a fifth-place finish on what was then still a mixed surface 12.4 mile course. He also took the ‘Rookie of the Year’ title.
Nate Tennis pushes the MG Metro 6R4 rally car into the top of Turn 8 otherwise known as ‘The Corkscrew’ during Velocity Invitational.
MG Metro 6R4 – Group B motorsport fans will go crazy over this modern interpretation of the Mini. It has a V6 engine on the back seat, total traction from four-wheel drive, and a huge aero kit above the rear hatch.
Dirtfish driver, Max McRae, pushes the Pastrana Subaru Impreza sideways through Turn 11 at Laguna Seca during Velocity Invitational.
Subaru Impreza WRX STI – US stunt driver and all-round action hero Travis Pastrana drove this car in the 2007 and 2008 X Games. He finished on the podium both times, but took home the gold in 2008.
Velocity Invitational invited DirtFish to participate in this years event. Seen here is Benjamin Pedersen dropping down into the Corkscrew at Laguna Seca in #037 – a Lancia rally car.
Lancia Rally 037 – In the 1980’s, when the world was turning to turbocharging and four-wheel drive, the Italians forged ahead with supercharging and rear-wheel drive. The result was this car which helped Lancia win a manufacturers’ title against the Audi’s quattro in 1983. This semi-works example was once driven by Italian star and former European Rally Champion; Fabrizio Tabaton.
Alister McRae pilots the Makinen Subaru Impreza into the Corkscrew at Laguna Seca during Velocity Invitational.
Subaru Impreza WRC2002 – Driven by four-time World Rally Champion Tommi Mäkinen. This 2002-spec Subaru, codenamed S8, was another stunning example of the world-beating engineering of Team ProDrive.
Driving lights adorn the front hood of the Lancia Rally #037.
Peugeot 206 WRC – Although this car never made its way on track this weekend, this 206 was driven by the likes of World Rally Champion Richard Burns as well as Marcus Grönholm and Gilles Panizzi.
2022 Velocity Invitational Dirt Fish Rally Cars
Seen here is the Ford Fiesta Pikes Peak rally car bathed in early morning dew at Laguna Seca.
Subaru Impreza WRC 2002 – once driven by World Rally Champion Tommi Makinen
Interior of the Subaru Impreza WRC 2002
Alister McRae – British rally driver who competed in the World Rally Championship
Peeking into the rear window of the MG Metro 6R4 you will see a V6 stuffed into the backseat.
Driving lights adorn the front hood of the Lancia Rally #037.
Interior of the Lancia Rally #037
Rally sticker adorning the rear window of the Lancia Rally #037.
Nate Tennis waits patiently in pit lane at Velocity Invitational prior to doing demonstration laps at Laguna Seca in a Lancia.
Dirtfish brought a handful of rally cars to Velocity Invitational. They are seen here lined up in pit lane ready to perform demonstration laps around Laguna Seca.
James Rimmer awaits to enter the track in the Makinen Subaru Impreza at Laguna Seca during Velocity Invitational.
Alister McRae leads the lineup in a MG Metro 6R4 for Sunday’s demonstration laps around Laguna Seca at Velocity Invitational.
Drivers get a ‘thumbs up’ signal to enter the track.
Benjamin Pedersen drives the Ford Fiesta Pikes Peak rally car down the straight into Turn 11 at Laguna Seca.
Max McRae drifts Turn 11 at Laguna Seca in the Subaru Impreza WRX STI once driven by Gold medal X-Games winner Travis Pastrana.
Lancia Rally Car #037 speeds through Laguna Seca’s Turn 11 at Velocity Invitational.
James Rimmer, from Dirtfish, slides the Makinen Subaru Impreza around Laguna Seca’s Turn 11 during Velocity Invitational
Benjamin Pedersen cruising through Turn 11 during Velocity Invitational.
Dirfish Rally School brought a variety of impressive former WRC cars to Velocity Invitational.
Dew, left by early morning fog, drips down the hood of the Pastrana Subaru Impreza.
Subaru Impreza WRX STI – once driven by X-Games Gold medalist Travis Pastrana.
Ford Fiesta Pikes Peak – once driven by Marcus Gronholm at the famous hill climb where he garnered the title ‘Rookie of the Year’.
For beachfront access, stay at Islander Hotel & Resort or rent a spacious home through Emerald Isle Realty.
Take in the gorgeous water views while spending the day on one of the wide beaches.
Fill up on tacos and all manner of local seafood at Fish Hut Grill.
Pick up the newest bestseller from Emerald Isle Books & Toys.
Visit in the fall and winter for fewer crowds, comfortable weather, and fresh oysters.
You don’t have to travel to the Caribbean for a glimpse of clear blue-green waters. In fact, you don’t even need a passport. All you need to do is book a trip to Emerald Isle, a laid-back beach town and popular vacation spot on North Carolina’s Crystal Coast.
The water off the coast of Emerald Isle doesn’t have the murky, brownish hues you might expect at other beaches along the coast. Depending on the weather conditions (storms and strong winds reduce clarity), the water can appear nearly transparent and almost turquoise—hence the town’s name.
“Since we are oriented east to west, we are tucked into the North Carolina coastline,” Julia Batten Wax, the second-generation owner of her family business, Emerald Isle Realty, tells Travel + Leisure. “Sheltered this way, our ocean is gentler than the Northern Outer Banks, and ocean waters are warmer, also thanks to the Gulf Stream passing by offshore.” She also says this position provides a “seasonal arc of amazing sunsets and sunrises over the Atlantic Ocean and Bogue Sound.”
Along with its natural beauty, Emerald Isle boasts all the essentials for a classic beach vacation—from oceanfront homes and local seafood spots to a lengthy paved bike path and all sorts of water-based activities. So, if you’re searching for a relaxing couples getaway or a family-friendly coastal destination, look no further. Here’s everything to know to plan a trip to Emerald Isle, according to two local experts.
Where to Stay
Aerial view of beach houses along the coast.
Crystal Coast N.C.
The Islander Hotel & Resort
“The Islander Hotel & Resort is a great oceanfront option for a traditional resort experience with private beach access,” says Clarke Merrell, chef and owner of 81 Hospitality Group. Wax agrees, adding that it’s “walking distance to a fun new shopping and dining area also located on Islander Drive.” She recommends requesting one of their newly renovated rooms if available.
Lighthouse Inn & Suites
“There’s Lighthouse Inn & Suites, located right next to the Salty Pirate Water Park and within walking distance to several good restaurants,” says Merrell. Part of the Best Western Signature Collection, the 25-key hotel offers complimentary breakfast and an outdoor seasonal pool. There are also ADA rooms, elevators, and accessible parking.
Emerald Isle Realty
“For large family gatherings, Emerald Isle Realty has many great rental options,” says Merrell. With more than 600 vacation homes in the area, you can narrow down your search based on location, building type (single-family, duplex, or condo), and number of bedrooms. You can even choose a property with easy beach access and incredible views from a private deck. “There’s a special blessing to being able to run down your boardwalk anytime of the day or night and be toes in the sand whenever you wish,” says Wax. “Watching the light change from rosy dawn to sparkling diamonds of sunlight at noon, then to the deepening lavender- and peach-hued sunset—all from your oceanfront deck—never gets old.”
Best Things to Do
Aerial view of young boys running on the beach.
Crystal Coast N.C.
Have a beach day.
If you’re coming to Emerald Isle, you’re likely looking forward to a few blissful days on the beach—and the 12-mile stretch of island delivers. “The beaches are clean, easily accessible, and, being south-facing, the water is warm much of the year,” says Merrell.
“Wide beaches and calm seas make this the perfect salty playground or restful retreat for those spending the day in the shade of a Shibumi tent,” adds Wax, who also notes that Emerald Isle is a sea turtle sanctuary; nesting season starts in May and ends in September. “We deeply care about preserving our coastal environment, so much of our island has been thoughtfully and carefully protected. Our sea oats and other native plants and wildflowers add their touch of beauty to the dunes,” she explains.
Go fishing.
“We have the Bogue Inlet Pier for in-shore fishing, and the Gulf Stream is just a boat ride away for some world-class offshore fishing,” says Merrell. If you don’t have your own boat, you can charter one from Emerald Isle Adventures. You can also try your hand at either surf fishing or fishing in the marshes along the sound side. “Grab your fishing pole or crab nets and head for Emerald Isle’s public soundfront dock at Cedar Street, especially wonderful at sunset on a summer evening,” says Wax. Just don’t forget to get your North Carolina fishing license beforehand.
Explore the Bogue Sound.
Emerald Isle may be known as a beach destination, but much of its appeal is found on the other side of the island, in the Bogue Sound. “Rent some kayaks or paddleboards and enjoy the quieter side of Emerald Isle,” says Wax. “Watch in wonder as great blue herons stalk through the tall marsh grasses. Charter an eco-tour boat ride, and delight in dolphins swimming alongside [you] and appearing to smile for your photographs.” If you prefer to go with a guide, sign up for a tour with Emerald Isle Paddle Tours.
Best Restaurants
Seafood dishes from Caribsea.
Ashley Brooks/Caribsea
Cap’n Willis Seafood Market
It wouldn’t be a beach vacation without some fresh seafood. “Cap’n Willis Seafood Market tops my list for incredible local shrimp, crabmeat, grouper, flounder, and triggerfish. They will steam your shrimp or crabs and also make delicious coleslaw and Key lime pie,” says Wax. “That’s a wonderful seafood meal right there that you can take home and eat in the comfort of your beach cottage.”
RuckerJohns
“I enjoy RuckerJohns for a classic family meal experience,” says Merrell. The Emerald Isle location has a menu that basically guarantees you won’t leave hungry. Load up on the lightly battered shrimp, shrimp and grits, or the nachos, the latter of which is covered in homemade chili and grated cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
Caribsea
“For great atmosphere and gracious service, we love Caribsea. Chef Patrick is creative with his use of seasonal produce and the freshest catch of the day,” says Wax. She also notes you’ll get amazing views of the Emerald Isle bridge, Bogue Sound, and the Atlantic Ocean, “all while sipping on craft cocktails, beers from our famous North Carolina breweries, and one of the area’s best wine lists.”
Fish Hut Grill
Both Wax and Merrell recommend Fish Hut Grill for seafood. Saddle up to one of the outdoor tables and get ready to feast on fish tacos, peel-and-eat shrimp, or a hearty crab cake sandwich. Wash it all down with a blueberry jalapeño margarita or the house sangria.
Thirsty Surfer
Wax says Thirsty Surfer is a new addition to the island that has “quickly become a favorite hangout for locals.” The classic beach bar serves up burgers, wings, and local seafood tacos from its outdoor food truck. There’s also live entertainment on select days during the week.
Best Shopping
Interior shelves at Emerald Isle Wine Market.
Emerald Isle Wine Market
Winberry Farm Market
Wax calls Winberry Farm Market in Cedar Point, just off the island, her “favorite farm stand.” “The Winberry family grows the prized Bogue Sound watermelons—so flavorful and kissed by those salty breezes. We love their locally grown cantaloupes, corn, tomatoes, butter beans, strawberries, and blueberries,” she adds.
Emerald Isle Wine Market
“A fun stop on everyone’s list should be the locally owned Emerald Isle Wine Market on Coast Guard Road,” says Wax. “Nancee Allen has a connoisseur’s eye for great wines at superb prices, an outstanding craft beer selection, and some tasty gourmet treats, including superstar TV chef Vivian Howard’s Viv’s Fridg of appetizers, entrees, and desserts.”
Emerald Isle Books & Toys
Forgot your book at home? No problem. “Emerald Isle Books & Toys is one of my favorites for an exceptional collection of books for readers of all ages and also a delightful collection of toys, puzzles, crafts, and games,” says Wax. You’ll find it in the Emerald Plantation Shopping Center—a hub of stores that also includes Wind Tide, Beaufort Olive Oil Company, and Carteret Country Store.
Best Time to Visit
Aerial view of people walking on an Emerald Isle beach.
Crystal Coast N.C.
While you might expect summer to be the best time to visit Emerald Isle, both Wax and Merrell explain the off-season and shoulder seasons have their own appeal. “My personal favorite time of year is the fall. The weather is perfect, the water is still warm, but the beaches are less crowded with school being back in session,” says Merrell, adding there’s also beach-driving access in the off-season.
“Winter—our quietest season—is also when the turn of the earth has the sun setting over the ocean in the southwest sky from winter solstice to early March,” says Wax. This gives way to sunsets that turn the sky “a deep cardinal red.” Fall and winter, from October through March, bring oyster season. “[You’ll get] the chance to discover our mariculture and feast on some salty, briny selects pulled from the rivers and sounds nearby,” she adds.
How to Get There
Aerial view of colorful beach homes.
Crystal Coast N.C.
Emerald Isle is located on Bogue Banks, one of the Crystal Coast’s barrier islands. The closest airports are Albert J. Ellis Airport (OAJ) in Jacksonville, North Carolina, and the Coastal Carolina Regional Airport (EWN) in New Bern. From either airport, you’ll need to rent a car and drive the remaining hour to Emerald Isle.
How to Get Around
Pier shot with beach and ocean in the background at Emerald Isle.
Visit NC
There are many sidewalks, nature trails, and bike paths throughout Emerald Isle. Like many beach towns, it can also be traversed by golf cart (which can be rented from Emerald Isle Golf Cart Rentals & Sales); you just can’t drive on Highway 58 or Coast Guard Road.
On a blustery spring evening, over 60 youngsters cuddled up in a snug living room framed by vintage décor and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Beijing’s central business district. The projector played old songs, while guests lounged on the sofa or sank into bean bags interspersed among several coffee tables cluttered with half-drunk cocktails. As the ice in the glasses slowly melted, the conversations drifted from music to personality types, to everyday frustrations at work, as well as life’s pleasures. It was the first anniversary of KO Home Bar, one of the earliest “home bars” in Beijing. For this special occasion, KK Zhang, one of its three owners, set up a flower wall and a faux lawn bench at the entrance, and prepared barrels of cocktails along with trays of pastries.
The one-year anniversary of KO Home Bar, celebrated at its second location in a building in Beijing’s Jianwai Soho. Image: KK Zhang
As its name denotes, home bars are spaces converted from part or all of a personal residence for small social gatherings. They welcome strangers and are run as businesses. Paying a flat fee ranging between 100 RMB to 300 RMB ($14-$41), guests can enjoy as many drinks and activities as they like during the open hours, which are typically 7pm and 2am. Different from high-energy traditional bars, home bars offer a homey, intimate ambience where introverts find it easier to connect. Since first appearing in Shanghai at the end of 2023, the format has quickly become popular among lonely young people seeking to unwind and socialize.
From Shanghai to Beijing: The Spread of Home Bars
The space at the home bar is arranged like a small bar. Photo: KO Home Bar
In Beijing, hundreds of home bars sprung up within a few months. On Chinese lifestyle platform Xiaohongshu (also known as RedNote), the hashtag #homebar has garnered 62 million views and 482,000 posts to date.
KO was born after Zhang’s apparel startup, set up upon graduating as a fashion design major, experienced setbacks. “Due to the economic downturn, fewer people would buy clothes,” she tells Jing Daily. She learned about this nightlife trend in Shanghai in early 2024 and published a post on Xiaohongshu looking for partners. To her surprise, a stranger and an old friend reached out.
Within one week, Zhang found an apartment in a busy area, decorated it “dopamine style,” and stocked up on barware, while applying for business licenses. The investment stood at around 100,000 RMB ($13,671) for the first three months, a modest amount compared to most other businesses, but earnings have been equally slim. Zhang buys fresh lemons for her signature lemon tea and other fruits to make classic cocktails, house specials, and mocktails. Guests can also order takeout or bring their own refreshments.
A gathering at KO Home Bar. Image: KK Zhang
A Home Away From Home
Starting at 8pm, Zhang takes on bartending while leading games and activities for her guests, largely young professionals born between 1995 and 2005. “Most work in law, finance and tech in nearby office buildings and come here after a long, exhausting day of work to relax. Among the patrons are also editors, artists, and freelancers from across the city. They are lonely, eager to seek out this new social experience,” Zhang says. Jia Yu, born in the 2000s and now studying in the U.S., used to visit KO every three weeks, mostly on her own. “Each time I met new people. Lonely and anxious, we gradually became friends. It started to feel as comforting as coming home,” she says.
The Loneliness Economy: A Generation Seeking Connection
Strangers at the home bar can sit together and play games. Photo: KO Home Bar/Xiaohongshu.
Loneliness has emerged as a notable trend among China’s younger generation since the late 2010s. In 2019, a survey by China Youth Daily found that 97.2% of respondents aged 18 to 35 working in big cities reported feeling lonely. The pandemic compounded the issue. “The streets were eerily empty at night and people felt estranged from one another. There was no sense of trust,” Tian Xia tells Jing Daily.
Given the suffocating atmosphere, she wished to create a space where lonely people could gather, drink and talk. After finding a studio to lease, buying an ice maker and renting a projector, she posted on Xiaohongshu to gather her first batch of guests. “I was caught off guard when many people expressed an interest,” she says. “I felt like we were pushed into a corner by fate. Everyone was living in a state of uncertainty.”
The space at the home bar is arranged like a small bar. Photo: KO Home Bar
The entry fee at Xia’s Hutong Screening was a cocktail of 30 RMB ($4.10) and each night was capped at 10 guests. Buying a drink gave one access to the space for a night to see a movie, discuss a book, play a Jubensha (script murder), or just talk about work, life and policies. When China lifted pandemic restrictions in January 2023, Xia secured a job in Shanghai and gave up the bar, which had been struggling.
A typical night scene at Hutong Screening. Image: Tian Xia
Flash in a Pan, or Long-Term Fix?
Isolation and stress amid economic volatility, in addition to the cost of maintaining friendships across long distances in big cities, have fueled this casual pastime. According to China’s latest national census in 2020, the country is home to over 125 million single-person households, accounting for over a quarter of the total. The number of single individuals in China reached 240 million in 2023. This has given rise to a massive loneliness economy. Urban Gen Zers in China are spending more on companionship and spiritually fulfilling activities, according to the 2024 McKinsey China Consumer Survey.
Imbibing among a bunch of strangers in a cozy setting fits this emotional landscape. As Gen Z shows a growing preference for low-alcohol beverages, cocktails have emerged as one of the top three choices among young drinkers, according to a 2024 report by the Houlang Research Institute. For Yu, KO sits somewhere between her family home and a social venue such as a traditional bar. Guests must abide by a set of house rules. For example, a reminder on the wall reads: “If you feel uncomfortable or experience any inappropriate behavior at any point, please tell the owner.”
A gathering at Hutong Screening. Image: Xia Tian
Tiaohai Village, which began as a community pub and has grown into a subculture brand, placed an anti-sexual harassment handbook in each of its 30 bars. Besides safety concerns, another challenge is staying afloat. Many home bars shuttered in the first quarter of this year, some due to issues with operating spaces (in certain cities, home bars are now only allowed in mixed-use buildings), others because of repetitive and boring events.
“The quality of the social experience at a home bar often hinges on the owner’s charisma,” Xia says. Zhang found several of her event ideas being copied by new competitors. “Now, it’s ultra-competitive,” she says, adding that her biggest challenge is designing events that not only entertain but help people discover shared interests in a free-spirited, laid-back space just like home.
This article was first seen on Jing Daily by Contributing writer Xiaonan Wang and has been edited for clarity.
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Travelling from the UK to Europe after BREXIT with a motorhome, campervan or caravan? Want to know what documents you need and what changes will affect your road trips? Unsure about driving in the EU after BREXIT? Here’s everything you need to know
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Driving in Europe after BREXIT- things you need to know
Whether you like it or not, the BREXIT transition period has now finished and the UK has left the EU.
Which means that the rules for travel from the UK to Europe have changed, and there are some changes for driving in the EU after BREXIT.
Here’s a guide on what the changes are, and which ones affect you.
There are a couple of big things you need to check before you travel from the UK to the EU after BREXIT:
check your passport
check your healthcare/ travel insurance
check you have the right driving documents
organise pet travel documents
More on each section is below, as well as some smaller tips you might find useful
Travelling to Europe after BREXIT?
If you’d prefer to watch a video instead of read, here you go (just click the image to watch)
NOTE: This video was filmed before the GB stickers changed to UK and various other small changes. Read below for all the up to date info.
Travelling to Europe after BREXIT and Driving in Europe rule changes video
We hope you found the video useful. If you did, why not follow us on Youtube. We share new videos with tips for motorhoming and campervanning in the UK and Europe weekly, plus road trip ideas and epic destinations.
Travel from UK to Europe after BREXIT- Check your Passport
British passports MUST have at least 6 months left on them before you enter the European Union. You MUST check that the expiry date is ONLY 10 years from the date of issue, not longer.
This is really important- many passports over the last 10+ years have been issued with an extra 9 months on them- but this will not be acknowledged by the EU. So if your passport was issued on 01 September 2015, it will expire (in the EU’s eyes) on 01 September 2025, regardless of the actual expiry date.
So you must have 6 months left before THAT date. (Ireland is the exception for this- you can travel to Ireland for the length of your current passport). Get more tips for motorhoming or campervanning in Ireland.
Also, any passport older than 10 years needs to be renewed asap. You can do this online or at your local Post Office.
YOU DO NOT NEED A BLUE PASSPORT- keep using your red one until you need to renew it, even if it says EU on the cover. However, you won’t be able to use the EU citizen entry lanes at border control.
Insurance and Medical treatment in Europe after BREXIT
If you currently have an EHIC card for healthcare treatment in the EU, that will remain valid until it expires.
There is a newer version of this, called the Global Health Insurance card (GHIC), which is nowhere near as far-reaching.
In some countries, patients are expected to directly contribute a percentage towards the cost of their state-provided treatment. This is known as a patient co-payment. If you receive treatment under this type of healthcare system, you’re expected to pay the same co-payment charge as a patient from that country.
The EHIC/ GHIC is not an alternative to travel insurance. It will not cover any private medical healthcare or costs, such as mountain rescue in ski resorts or being flown back to the UK. The EHIC/ GHIC is not valid on cruises.
NOTE: The GHIC is FREE for eligible UK residents. Do NOT pay for it, use the NHS website here.
The short answer is, expect to pay for healthcare- or at least buy a decent travel insurance policy before you go.
Driving in the EU after BREXIT- Documents you need
If you’re going to be driving a motorhome or camper or car in the EU or Europe after BREXIT, you must carry:
Your UK card driving licence (check it is in date!)
Your insurance documents
Vehicle V5 logbook (which must show your correct address)
Vehicle must be legally taxed and MOT’d
Trailer certification (if required)
Green card (not needed for most UK registered vehicles, but still likely needed for trailers- check with your insurer)
A UK sticker for your vehicle. If you’re going to Spain you MUST have the white oval on the back, even if you have it on the reg plate too.
IDP if required
There are other items you need to for driving in Europe– see them all here and grab your FREE checklist
Green Card
You do NOT need a green card when taking your vehicle to any countries in the EU, including motorhoming in Ireland, Andorra, Iceland, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Liechtenstein, Norway, Serbia and Switzerland. You obviously still need valid vehicle insurance.
You may need a green card to visit other countries in Europe, including Turkey, Ukraine, Moldova, Belarus, Albania, Azerbaijan and Russia. Please check with your insurer, which is who you get the green cards issued from.
If towing a trailer with a motorhome, you will almost certainly need to carry a green card for the trailer, even if one is not needed for the main vehicle.
If one IS needed for the main vehicle, you will need a separate green card for the trailer or any additional vehicles you might be towing (like a car.
Check with your insurer what you need before you travel.
Apply at least one month before you are due to travel and make sure the details on the card are correct- we’ve heard several instances of something being wrong and a new one had to be posted out.
Do you need an IDP?
No. Most people do not need an IDP to drive in the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein if you have a card driving licence issued in the UK.
You might if you have:
a paper driving licence
a licence issued in Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man
(If you do need an IDP, here’s an in-depth guide on how to get an International Driving Permit and which one(s) you need from a UK post office.
Will my UK driving licence be valid in the EU after BREXIT?
Your current driving licence will continue to be valid for driving in Europe, even if it has the EU symbol. Obviously, it needs to be in date and you must have a licence for the vehicle you are driving.
Driving in Europe after BREXIT- get a UK sticker on your vehicle
You MUST have a UK sticker or reg plate on the back of your car- the GB sticker or EU logo will no longer be acceptable.
If you are going motorhoming in Spain, you must have the white sticker with black letters, even if you have the UK sticker on your reg plate.
Talking of France, you might find these posts useful for your trip:
Hiring a motorhome or car in Europe after BREXIT
Yes, you can still rent a motorhome or car in Europe after BREXIT. You will need:
a valid driving licence (suitable for the vehicle you will be driving)
Possibly an IDP code from the DVLA- check with the hire company in advance.
If you are travelling with a hire vehicle outside of the UK, you will need proof that you are allowed to cross borders with it (often a VE103 certificate)
How long can you stay in the EU after BREXIT?
Ah, the big one.
UK residents are now restricted on how much time you can spend in the Schengen area. This includes the whole of the EU except Cyprus and Ireland, but DOES include Iceland, Croatia, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.
You are allowed to stay in the Schengen area for 90 days in any rolling 180 day period. This includes the day you arrive and the day you depart.
You can stay for one long trip, or a series of smaller trips, as long as you don’t exceed 90 days in any 180.
And yes- your passport will be stamped. Make sure it gets stamped when you leave too.
At the entry border, you may have to show:
a return or onward ticket
you have enough money for your stay
proof of medical insurance
UPDATE: If you’re travelling with a motorhome, caravan or campervan, we don’t know anyone who has been asked to provide any of these bits of information.
You will probably need to use separate lanes from EU, EEA and Swiss citizens when queueing at the border. It should be well signposted.
Countries which are exempt from the 90-day rule
These countries are not in the ’90-day’ rule, and therefore you can visit each for 90 days on top of your 90 days in the Schengen area:
Cyprus & Ireland are the only EU member states NOT in the Schengen area. (Cyprus aims to become part of the Schengen Area by the end of 2025)
Non-EU Countries in Europe: Albania, Andorra. Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Russia, Serbia, Turkey, and Ukraine
Morocco
Ireland allows unlimited visits for UK nationals- no stamps required!
You can use this short-stay calculator to help (although personally I don’t find it that easy to use)
Want to head to Europe with your motorhome?
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Will I need a VISA to visit Europe after BREXIT?
Not at the moment- but it’s coming.
Very soon, all British Citizens will need to apply for a European Travel Information and Authorisation Scheme (ETIAS) visa in advance. These will work similarly to the USA ESTAs and are proposed to be active later in 2025.
It is aimed at reducing the “migration, security or public-health risk” from nationals of visa-exempt third countries
At the moment, estimated costs are at 7€ and the ETIAS will be valid for 3 years (although that doesn’t mean you can spend 3 years exploring Europe non-stop).
There will also be an EES (EU Entry/ Exit System), which is due to be operational in October 2025 (but has been delayed several times already!)
The EES is a new digital border system that will require British nationals travelling to the Schengen area to register their biometric details, such as fingerprints or a photo, when arriving at a Schengen border. EES registration will replace the current system of manually stamping passports when visitors arrive in the EU.
Taking your dog to Europe after BREXIT
There have been some big changes regarding taking a pet from the UK to Europe. The UK Pet passport scheme is now obsolete, and you will require an animal health certificate instead.
For a step-by-step guide, please read: How to take a dog to Europe after BREXIT (and get an AHC)
Don’t forget, if you are going campervanning in Norway with a dog, you will need to get a tapeworm tablet administered by a vet 1-5 days before you enter Norway. And then you will need ANOTHER one administered 1-5 days before returning to the UK.
Duty Free limits for alcohol?
When travelling from the EU to the UK, anyone aged 17+ can carry (taken from the Gov.Uk website- please check for any changes):
beer – 42 litres
wine (not sparkling) – 18 litres
You can also bring in either:
spirits and other liquors over 22% alcohol – 4 litres
fortified wine (for example port, sherry), sparkling wine and alcoholic drinks up to 22% alcohol – 9 litres
You can split this last allowance, for example you could bring 4.5 litres of fortified wine and 2 litres of spirits (both half of your allowance).
Tobacco allowance
You can bring in one from the following:
200 cigarettes
100 cigarillos
50 cigars
250g tobacco
200 sticks of tobacco for electronic heated tobacco devices
You can split this allowance – so you could bring in 100 cigarettes and 25 cigars (both half of your allowance).
You may have to pay VAT, customs or excise duty on alcohol or tobacco you declare.
Taking Meat, Milk and other products to/ from Europe
You will not be allowed to bring in meat, milk or their products (unless you have less than 10kg and are coming from the Faeroe Islands or Greenland)
There is also an exemption for powdered infant milk, infant food, and special foods or special pet feed required for medical reasons, if weighing less than 2 kilograms and provided that:
such products do not require refrigeration before opening
that they are packaged proprietary brand products for direct sale to the final consumer, and
the packaging is unbroken unless in current use
You can travel with up to 20kg of fish and certain shellfish such as prawns, lobsters, dead mussels and dead oysters, or the weight of one fish if this is higher. There is no such weight restriction for travellers coming from the Faeroe Islands or Greenland
For other animal products, such as honey, live oysters, live mussels and snails for example, travellers are allowed to bring in up to 2 kilograms
These rules do not apply to animal products transported between the EU Member States, or for animal products coming from Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, San Marino or Switzerland. Full details can be found on the EU website here
You’ll need a certificate to take certain plants and plant products into EU countries.
2025 Import changes
In 2025, the UK Government has banned bringing any of the following INTO the UK from the EU, to try to stop the spread of foot and mouth (which is currently affecting some countries in Europe).
Cattle, sheep, goat, and pig meat
dairy products
“This includes bringing items like sandwiches, cheese, cured meats, raw meats or milk into Great Britain – regardless of whether it is packed or packaged or whether it has been bought at duty free.”
It’s unclear how long this ban will last for- up to date information can be found on Gov.UK here.
Driving in Europe after BREXIT- Phone Roaming Charges
The UK government passed some legislation which imposes:
A £45-a-month limit on the amount that customers could be charged for using mobile data abroad before having to opt-in for further use
Rules stating customers must be informed when they have reached 80% and 100% of their data allowance
“reasonable steps” need to be taken to avoid customers being charged for accidental roaming in Northern Ireland, which would happen if a phone in Northern Ireland locked onto the mobile signal coming from the Republic of Ireland.
Data roaming charges in Europe are now applicable again- please do check with your network to see what they will charge you for using your phone/ data abroad.
Will my UK bank card be valid?
Yes, you can still be able to use your UK bank cards in Europe, just as you did before. Make sure you are aware of any charges your bank may impose.
I hope you now feel a little more prepared or knowledgeable about travelling to Europe after BREXIT and driving in the EU.
We are just a few hours away from the official reveal of the Ferrari 296 VS (Versione Speciale). The hotter version of the 296 GTB will not only bring in a redesigned exterior but also pack more performance.
The Ferrari 296 VS will make its global debut on April 29, 2025, at 2:30 pm CEST. Now, to remind you, we were the first to report the launch date of the 295 VS.
We still don’t know the official name of this high-performance version. Some say that it could be called ‘296 Mugello’. However, we couldn’t confirm it.
Coming to upgrades, the 296 VS is expected to get a redesigned exterior and will be equipped with a more aggressive aero package. It could feature a flatter front fascia with horizontal headlamps, continuous LED taillights similar to the SF90 XX and a single central exhaust.
The Ferrari 296 VS will not only feature styling updates but, is also expected to get a few mechanical enhancements. It is also expected to be lighter than the outgoing model. Powering the 296 VS will be a tuned 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6. This engine develops 819 hp and 546 lb-ft of torque in its current configuration.
I only had three days to explore Cuyahoga Valley National Park and I was going to make the most of it! After a month of road tripping across Ohio – I had visited Columbus, Toledo, and Cincinnati – I was ready to escape into nature. I was eager to put the notepad away, turn the travel writing side of my brain off, and just focus on photography.
The locals call it Urban National Park because it’s hard to know when you’re inside the national park or some suburb of Cleveland or Akron. Despite the urban jungle surrounding the park, I found the interior a pleasant display of nature through the valley.
Here are some of my favorite photos I captured during that first visit. I already have the return visit planned for 2021 – I wonder what I’ll capture the next time?
The Cuyahoga River is the primary artery through the national park. In fact, the river is the reason the park exists. In the 1950s and 1960s, the river was so polluted it would frequently catch on fire. After the 13th fire, the Congress passed several acts to protect waterways and the environment. This led to the establishment of Cuyahoga Valley National Recreation Area in 1974 – and in 2000 it was redesignated a national park.
The 19.5-mile Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail is one of the most adventurous ways to explore the park. The trail follows the route of the historic canal. I didn’t have to wait long for a bicyclist to pass by – several more passed just a minute after this rider.
Everett Covered Bridge was one of my favorites places I visited in Cuyahoga Valley National Park – but I had to visit twice to capture a great photo. Photography is all about the light, and during my first visit I was shooting into the light. I came back earlier the next day and found gorgeous lighting.
The Beaver Marsh was the best place in the national park for viewing wildlife. However, I didn’t get there early enough for the best show. Wildlife often requires a pre-dawn alarm clock and I’m allergic to anything that early in the day.
Although I didn’t arrive until about 10 a.m., there was still plenty of wildlife to view at the Beaver Marsh. Ducks and geese on the water. Gorgeous song birds in the trees. And a woodpecker clunking away on the tree trunks!
I absolutely love chasing waterfalls. In fact, part of my one-month road trip was about waterfalls across Ohio. Brandywine Falls is the tallest waterfall in the state. The walk was easy enough, but require a long climb down a flight of stairs to a wooden observation deck.
The Ledges was my favorite place to visit Cuyahoga Valley National Park. A trail wrapped around an area of exposed ledges and giant boulders. I hiked half the trail the first day in the park, but I didn’t take the tripod with me. Realizing I wanted to capture really great photos, I went back on the last day in the park.
The trail was only 1.8 miles long – you would think I could have hiked that easily, right? After stopping every hundred feet to place the camera on a tripod and capture a photo, I spent three hours just moving half that distance. I never finished the entire trail. Motivation for a return visit!
Morgan Motor Company is adding to the Plus model line-up with the reimagining of the Plus Four and the Plus Six. As part of the new ‘Plus’ line, enhancements will be introduced and it will be seen on the new Plus Four and Plus Six models starting January 2023.
The ‘Plus’ moniker means that it is a mainstay of Morgan production and that it is at par with the newly introduced ‘Super’. It was in 1950 that the ‘Plus’ was first introduced in the Plus 4. With more than 70 years of heritage, Plus bravely looks towards the future, fully embracing new technologies while reimagining the experience of driving a modern yet handcrafted sports car for the 21st Century.
The new Morgan Plus Four and Plus Six is coach-built using Morgan’s CX-Generation bonded aluminum platform. Its design is an automatic timeless classic. The Plus Four was given a slightly narrower body and wire wheels, with its aesthetic reminiscent of the original vehicles. On the other hand, the Plus Six have a wider and more assertive appearance, and has a more contemporary aesthetic. Both vehicles were given new features and to ensure a more cohesive tailoring experience for clients, their list of options and configurations will also be closely aligned.
Morgan Motor Company Chief Executive Officer Massimo Fumarola shared, “The new Morgan Plus line celebrates the essence of unconventional driving and ethical engineering. It unites timeless design and craftsmanship with the most exhilarating driving engagement. With Plus we want to honour those individuals who believe that motoring is not about status, but more about character, authenticity, and pleasure.”
PLUS LAUNCH CONTENT
Interior Design
Significant update on the interior is one of the main features of the new Plus models from Morgan. It offers greater refinement, more personalization opportunities, and more usability compared to the earlier generations.
A new range of marquetry veneers which extend throughout the vehicle starting from its center console has been introduced, highlighting the company’s commitment to craftsmanship and bespoke tailoring, showcasing the natural materials, form, and design that Morgan has become known for.
Abstract motifs for moving spokes are ‘Spokes in Flight’ and ‘Kinetic Diamond’, which are inspired by the spoked wheels that for decades have been featured on Morgan cars. A third veneer option is ‘Engineered’ and it features aluminum strips between wood, and it signifies the two core materials that Morgan has used in their cars.
A new instrument panel and superformed aluminum dashboard can be specified in either matte black, or matte silver. It can also be specified to match a specific body color. On the passenger side of the dashboard, it can also be specified that a model designation be placed. New instruments are featured on the dashboard, and it will also have a new face artwork. A minimal and clutter-free aesthetic is featured on the instrument artwork which was inspired by premium timepieces and has been simplified. The dashboard design incorporates a new and larger LCD information display screen, and has been placed in front of the driver. To improve its usability for drivers, it was given updated screen graphics and improved animation. The screen itself is subtle, only displaying necessary information, as part of Morgan’s philosophy of appropriately introducing technology to its vehicles.
Beneath the aluminum dashboard is a solid wooden lower rail that coordinates with the center column. Each wooden section was meticulously handcrafted by the skilled craftspeople at Morgan, and it can be given a variety of finishes and colors. For the first time, a Plus model was given a new glovebox, and it sits just below the wooden lower rail, is designed in matching leather, and it is also where the USB power sockets were hidden.
The steering wheel can now be specified to have a satin polished center section which coordinates with other internal embellishers which includes the door handle, speaker grille, hand brake, and gear shift surrounds.
PLUS LAUNCH CONTENT
Designed specifically for the latest Plus models is the two-tone fabric which offers a mix of textures and beautifully contrasts on the seats and door cards. As standard, it has black pebble grain leather and black fabric, and it has an additional six color options and leather grains to choose from.
The natural textile is woven from worsted wool using fine marl yarns. Each fabric is matched with a complimentary leather colorway, so that the leather is used sparingly, celebrating it as a fine material.
One of the most noticeable update to the door interior is the new ‘bolt-action’ door handle which is placed on the lower section of the door. Made from lacquered stainless steel and high-quality saddle leather, it gives an aesthetic upgrade as well as an impressive mechanical sensation during egress.
A variety of enhancements can also be seen in both the standard and Comfort Plus seat options. A full redesign was given on the headrests of both seat variants and it now features intricate stitch detail and is now slimmer than before. Comfort Plus seats now have an adjustable thigh bolster and knurled metal recline adjustment level. For the first time in Plus models, Morgan also added an optional integrated cup holder. It can be detached and easily fits into the base of the passenger seat.
Morgan Motor Company Chief Design Officer Jonathan Wells stated, “The Plus line in 2023 presents a marked evolution of the four-wheeled Morgan. As with any enduring design, it is crucial to strike a balance between moving forward whilst complementing established product qualities.
“The design team is fortunate to work in proximity with mechanical and quality engineers, as well as the craftsmen at Pickersleigh road. Designers can deliver solutions that envelope a clear understanding of constraints and opportunities. Through this understanding, we have been able to introduce sizeable new technologies and features, whilst also enhancing the perceived quality of Morgan Plus cars.
“A holistic whole vehicle study has considered the more significant changes, through to multiple more nuanced design updates – the increased impression of quality will be evident.”
Morgan Plus Six dynamic
Engaging Vehicle Dynamics
A Morgan sports car is defined by its lightweight engineering, the driving pleasure it provides, and the unique connection it offers between the driver and the car. To ensure the continuous dynamic evolution of Plus models, in-house engineering teams in Morgan have constantly worked with industry leading external partners. During the whole process, It was important that the key principles of the Morgan driving experience is kept, this also includes requirements for future technology, safety, and legislative requirements.
The new Plus models also introduced Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and an all-new braking system, which were developed with Continental and AP Racing. All Plus Four and Plus Six models will have ESC. The ESC is mode dependent and it has been tuned for each model and gearbox variant, and depending on the driving mode, it can also be switched between levels of assistance.
Developed with the ESC program, the new AP Racing braking system was designed to deliver high-performance braking.
In partnership with BMW, they developed bespoke gearbox calibrations for the automatic variant of the Plus Four and Plus Six models.
In ‘normal’ driving mode, four calibrations will automatically adapt gear shifting based on the steering angle and brake pressure. Four additional calibrations are added in ‘Sport’ and ‘Sport+’ modes, programmed to be more dynamic, it will adapt gear shifting which is also based on the steering angle and brake pressure.
An accelerometer and driver torque demand is used the new hill detection so that it can automatically select a lower gear for steep inclines. Aside from improving drivability and increasing performance, the new calibrations also improves efficiency.
Completing the dynamic enhancements of the Plus models is the addition of the new suspension dampers and bushes. Further refinement is provided by the new bush rating on low-frequency road undulations while the new dampers enhance ride compliance, high-speed performance, and progressive rate.
As standard, airbags have been added behind the new aluminum dashboard and in the steering wheel. These new addition represents a significant engineering project and is above the homologation requirements for the vehicle.
“The introduction of new dynamic features to our latest Plus models reflects Morgan’s philosophy of continual evolution. Above all, Morgan sports cars should be fun to drive, providing occupants with a unique and memorable experience. Our latest introductions celebrate these qualities, whilst also increasing the level of safety, and future-proofing our models against ever changing legislative requirements,” said Morgan Motor Company Chief Technical Officer Matt Hole.
Morgan Plus Sennheiser grille
Sennheiser Audio
As part of Morgan’s philosophy of bringing together traditional coachbuilding methods with the latest technology, Morgan is partnering with Sennheiser to provide a revolutionary audio system in their new Plus models. With more than 75 years of experience in audio and music, Sennheiser’s expertise is unmatched.
Previous Morgan sports cars may have offered an audio system, but Sennheiser’s audio experience solution matches its premium reputation, easily better than any previous systems. They provide an enveloping sound with a unique soundstage with the highest level of audio fidelity.
Sennheiser’s tuning creates the illusion of a sound stage in front of the passengers, adding an unmatched high-quality soundtrack during memorable drives. The AMBEO Contrabass algorithm enables the audio system to create a unique bass response which has been optimized for definition, punch, and depth and still keeps the system efficient and compact.
Eight transducers are used in the system; four conventional speakers are placed in the door and rear panel, and an additional four invisible speakers were added, with three placed behind the dashboard and one in the lower compartment panel for bass reproduction. A new amplifier controls the transducers and it has a dedicated DSP which is powered by Sennheiser’s audio processing software.
The addition of the speakers does not alter the design of the cabin, and the use of invisible speakers ensures that only minimal weight is added, which is integral in every sports car. Premium sound quality if maintained, even with the demanding conditions that is set by an open-top sports vehicle.
Subtle Sennheiser branding can be seen on the speaker grille placed on each door. The iconic Morgan louvres stamped on each bonnet of Plus models influenced the design of the speaker grilles. Finished in polished satin, it is coordinated with the other embellishers that can be seen in the cockpit of the vehicle.
Head of Sennheiser Mobility Veronique Larcher shared, “Both companies collaborated closely to create a one-of-a-kind product with no compromise in sound reproduction, performance, design, and quality. We couldn’t have celebrated our road debut better than with a brand whose pursuit of quality and excellence in craftsmanship is so fully aligned with Sennheiser’s values.”
Morgan Plus Four dynamic
Individuality Celebrated
Individuality is certainly celebrated by Morgan cars and they really encourage their owners to commission their own bespoke Plus model, as there is a wide variety of options to select from. Each customer have the chance to finally bring their dream car to life as they create a true one-off that reflects their personal style and taste.
To help clients through the process of commissioning their own Morgan, the design team created a series of specification themes that help bring the model to life. These specifications not only showcase the versatility of the Morgan design, but it also duplicates the different environs that Morgan cars frequent.
Some of these themes include Riviera, Nordic, Stateside, Britannia, Urban, and Alpine. Each one of them can be selected through Morgan’s online configurator starting 2023.
In honor of the company’s roots in motorsport and trialling success, they also added 12 new graphic packs that include roundels, strikethrough numbers, and bonnet stripes. They will also be available starting 2023. For additional personalization, all the graphics will be available in black, white, or clear vinyl. Another option is the ‘pilot’ and ‘co-pilot’ call sign that can be placed on the exterior of the vehicle.
Production is scheduled to start in January 2023 and prospective clients are currently welcome to already start their bespoke Plus commissions.
If the seven wonders of the world ever added an eighth, it would the Eight Tenths Garden of Shanghai. Devised locally by Wutopia Lab, an award-winning, Shanghai-based, architectural design firm with an aim to create magical realism and “daily miracles”, the Eight Tenths Garden is a one-of-a-kind art museum and cultural complex. Designed to reflect the city’s prestige and immense culture, it features a variety of opposing facilities and incorporates both natural and urban environments.
With a complex exterior and simplified interior, the Eight Tenths Garden is described as the picture-perfect representation of the metropolis’ rich yet restrained nature. A replica of the monumental ‘70s Shanghai park surrounds the building, boasting immaculate greenery, stone pathways and clear blue ponds. Its cylindrical structure is clad in pleated white perforated aluminum, similar to the subtle folds of a traditional fan. Originally a sales center, Eighth Tenths Garden is now an art museum dedicated to arts and crafts which can also be used as a venue for the conference in the idle hours. It has a coffee shop, a library, offices, bed and breakfasts, as well as a restaurant, study rooms and chess rooms.
The museum is a vintage and contemporary enamel wonderland. Occupying the first two levels, it houses a stupendous collection of historic plates, cups, basins and even a bathtub. Featuring structures inspired by famous Chinese paintings, the museum showcases the most intricate rock garden, modelled on a 1970s street park, plus a mini waterfall. Its other amenities such as the coffee shop, restaurant, library, bed and breakfast space, private courtyards, chess-playing rooms and rooftop vegetable garden are equally outstanding.
The Eight Tenths Garden’s concept is heavily influenced by its owner’s past career in an enamel factory. The former factory manager aims to revive the seemingly lost trade of enamel homeware manufacturing, hence the third floor’s craft firm. The museum can be found along Jiayi Road, near Taopu Xincum metro station on Shanghai’s Line 11.
The Eight Tenths Garden aims to reflect the essence of Shanghai itself. The architects describe their design philosophy: “We hope the building could reveal the spirit of Shanghai. The spirit of Shanghai is life-based, which is a richness not only pleasant but also restrained. Thus, the space of this 2000 square meters’ building should be abundant in variation but also have a connection with each other. We do not want the obsessive minimalism, nor do we want an exaggerated scene which lacks connections. We used antithesis to unfold the space. The garden on the outside represents complexity, while the inside building, on the other hand, shows simplicity”.
In just a few weeks, the White House and the United States (U.S.) have found themselves in a situation from which escape will prove incredibly difficult. Starting on April 10, trade between the U.S. and China progressively — but irresistibly — came to a halt. Cargo bookings, in fact, collapsed in the wake of “Liberation Day.” It takes 30 days for a container to make the sea journey from China to Los Angeles, and 55 days to reach New York. Thus, it will be around May 10 that the economic effects will begin to be felt, and the trucking industry (a crucial and highly influential profession in the U.S.) will experience a standstill… due to a lack of goods to transport.
Warehouses and other storage facilities will have to proceed with layoffs, followed by the ports, with Los Angeles being the first to suffer. Chicago, Houston and New York will follow about two weeks later. This calamity cannot even be avoided in the most favorable (and least likely) scenario where tariffs are simply and entirely abandoned, because an additional 30 days would still be needed for U.S. economic activity to restart, first in Los Angeles, and a few weeks later in Chicago and New York.
Are my calculations and comments exaggerated? Let’s recall the lockdowns, when we learned the hard way that it takes an exceptionally long time for activity to return to normal. The U.S. finds itself like a passenger in a vehicle heading for a head-on collision that no one can avoid because it is now too late to brake. That is, of course, assuming that China and the United States resume their trade relations as if nothing had happened.
Between us, why would a country like China return to “business as usual” with a country that tried to strangle it? Just because it failed in the attempt? Knowing Americans well — and loving them — I nevertheless feel that they are neither intellectually nor materially prepared to be in the position of the attacked and the blamed, given what lies ahead.
Today, it is China that wants to reduce its relations with the United States. It is China that is de-dollarising. It is from China that the call for decoupling its economy is rising. By trying to take China “hostage” in this way, the United States has only accelerated these phenomena — phenomena that nearly all economists, analysts and politicians said would happen eventually… but much later. With a bonus for China: it will cost them much less to sever ties now at all these levels from the U.S., both financially and reputationally.
For the United States, the countdown has begun. Shortages are imminent, accompanied by factory closures caused by a shortage of spare parts and companies exhausting their orders. Even the defense sector will be impacted, discovering just how scarce some critical materials can be. The saddest part, however, will be the fate of small businesses — including some high-quality, well-known brands — that will go bankrupt this year because they will not have the ability to relocate outside of China.
AI renderings depicting Chinese President Xi Jinping reading Donald Trump’s autobiography “The Art of the Deal“
Crushed by U.S. giants who will move operations to countries like Vietnam, these small and medium-sized businesses will be last in line — if they are served at all — by these new production chains, which will obviously prioritise American mega-corporations. These small and medium enterprises will likely be bought out by China, which will reap significant benefits by taking control of prestigious brands that took decades to build up their creative strength and market leadership.
This analysis needs no conclusion, as the author is stunned by what is coming.
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