Returning to Learning with a Different Mind: A Neurodivergent Lens

Returning to university as a mature student is a huge achievement. Doing so with a neurodivergent brain adds even more layers of challenge and strength. Neurodiversity includes conditions such as ADHD, Dyslexia, and autism. These affect how students think, process information, and communicate. These differences influence not only learning outcomes but also confidence, participation, and feeling part of university life (Armstrong, 2010). This blog reflects on the experience of mature learners with neurodivergence. It highlights the hidden challenges, often overlooked strengths, and what true inclusion means when returning to learning with a different mind.

Transformative Life Experience

Mature learners bring much more than textbooks to university. Years spent in the workplace and personal life bring insight and perspective. Unlike younger students who follow a fixed path, mature students study with deep purpose. Education becomes about understanding, connecting ideas to real life, and growing personally (Knowles et al., 2015). This means they ask different questions and seek relevance, giving their learning a richness often missing in fresh school leavers.

However, this experience can also create tension. Universities often expect students to move seamlessly from school to university without breaks. Systems still value speed, verbal fluency, and standardised assessment styles. For neurodivergent mature students, this can feel like a mismatch. Their strengths may lie in deep thinking and resilience, which are not always rewarded (Kendall, 2016). This can cause frustration and feelings of being out of step for neurodivergent mature students.

Mature learners often bring a maturity of mind and resilience forged through life’s ups and downs. Their perspective is vastly different from that of their younger peers, who may have only recently left formal education. This maturity supports a more reflective approach to learning. They focus more on meaning than grades, on application rather than rote memorisation. This approach can reinvigorate academic environments when appreciated by institutions.

In addition, mature learners often have a clearer idea of the impact they want their education to make. This focus can increase motivation and commitment. Furthermore, life experience can grant practical knowledge that enriches classroom discussions, bringing theory and practice together in a meaningful way.

Embracing Neurodiversity: Strength Amidst Struggle

Neurodiversity is a celebration of difference, not deficit (Singer, 1999). It calls us to recognise brains that work in extraordinary ways. But universities often don’t see this—they favour rapid processing and standard exams that can overlook brilliance hidden beneath surface struggles.

The concept of neurodiversity means understanding that brains work differently, and this variation should be respected. Conditions like ADHD and dyslexia are not flaws but part of human diversity (Singer, 1999). Yet the majority of university learning still prioritises quick thinking, public speaking, and exams that favour certain cognitive styles. This often sets barriers for neurodivergent students.

Many neurodivergent students find that longer lectures challenge their ability to maintain focus. Reading heavy academic texts can be exhausting and may require extra time. Participating in discussions can be daunting, even if they understand the material well. These challenges are invisible to many, leading to misconceptions about effort or engagement (Clouder et al,2020).

Despite these barriers, neurodivergent learners bring extraordinary creativity, problem-solving skills, and unique viewpoints essential for innovation (Doyle, 2020). Their thinking often connects dots others miss, leading to fresh insights. Unfortunately, rigid assessment systems often fail to capture this, leading to an underestimation of their true intellectual abilities.

Moreover, neurodivergent students often develop strong coping mechanisms and develop resilience in response to challenges. They may approach problems with unconventional strategies, offering alternative solutions overlooked by those with more traditional cognitive styles.

The Emotional Juggle: Study, Work, and Life

Mature students rarely study in isolation. Many juggle full-time jobs, childcare, and community responsibilities alongside their coursework. This balancing act makes academic demands even more taxing. For neurodivergent students, difficulties with executive functions like planning, task initiation, and concentration add to the struggle (Balancing university with jobs, families, and personal challenges is exhausting. For neurodivergent mature students, the pressure feels overwhelming. Everyday tasks like planning, starting projects, and staying focused take extra energy and courage (Sweller, 2011).

Deadlines that do not budge and fixed class schedules create stress, which may worsen mental health and well-being (Broadbridge & Swanson, 2005). In addition, the mental load of switching between different roles can cause fatigue.

However, managing this complex juggling act fosters invaluable skills. Mature neurodivergent learners develop superb prioritisation, adaptability, and resilience, which assist them academically and professionally. Their lived experience equips them with coping strategies rarely taught in academic settings.

It is important to note that this juggling is not just about managing time, but also emotional and cognitive energy. Balancing competing demands requires ongoing adjustments that require self-awareness and flexibility. Universities that recognise these pressures can better support mature neurodivergent students by offering flexible study options and mental health resources.

Inclusivity Beyond Access: Real Inclusion

Support services are lifelines—extra time, quiet spaces, and understanding staff. But true inclusion is far more than accommodations. It’s a heartfelt invitation to universities to redesign learning with empathy, honouring diverse minds as essential contributors (Thomas, 2012).

At Westminster and beyond, the best inclusion happens when students feel safe to seek help without shame. At universities like Westminster, Disability Support Services play a vital role. Yet, the most meaningful inclusion happens when students feel comfortable accessing support openly, without stigma. When diversity in learning is normalised and celebrated, academic culture flourishes.

Inclusion should also influence teaching style and assessment design. Flexible deadlines, varied assessment types, and collaborative learning opportunities can allow diverse learners to thrive. Inclusivity means structural changes, not just reactive token support.

Beyond formal accommodations, inclusion means fostering community connections where neurodivergent students can share experiences and support one another. Peer mentorship programs and academic staff training on neurodiversity awareness also deepen true inclusivity.

Redefining Belonging and Triumph

For neurodivergent mature learners, belonging is not about blending in or hiding differences. It is about being seen and valued for who they truly are. Success is more than speed or volume of work—it is insight, persistence, and embracing unconventional perspectives.

Universities that open their doors to diverse minds create vibrant intellectual communities. These spaces foster innovation and richer learning for all students by drawing on a broad spectrum of cognitive styles.

When universities genuinely embrace neurodiversity, they strengthen education’s purpose. Higher education becomes not only a pursuit of knowledge but a celebration of the many ways to think, learn, and contribute.

Belongingness feeds motivation and resilience—two key ingredients for academic success. When neurodivergent learners experience belonging, their confidence grows, and they can fully engage, benefiting both themselves and the university community.

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Enhancing Education Through Diversity

Why Diversity in the Classroom Actually Makes Studying Better.

Discover how embracing diverse backgrounds and perspectives can enrich the learning environment at the University of Westminster.

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Navigating Sustainability as a Student in London

Eco-Friendly Living at Westminster on a Student Budget

London is known to be one of the most expensive cities in the world. So, how do you actually sustain a lifestyle as a student at the University of Westminster whilst staying eco-conscious without breaking the bank? Many people believe that a sustainable lifestyle requires a lot of money. Fancy boutiques. Organic food shops. Shiny new electric cars. All good intentions, but for most students, completely unrealistic. Living sustainably does not have to be expensive. In fact, it often does the opposite. It saves you money.

Explore Tips

Sustainable by accident:

Many students are already living more sustainably than they might think. Not always by choice, but it is essential to acknowledge these small efforts because they still have a significant impact. Walking between Cavendish, Regent and Harrow instead of taking taxis. Taking trains instead of cars because London traffic is a nightmare anyway. Sharing flats and therefore saving on heating, water and grocery bills. These choices are rarely made with the planet in mind. They are made for survival. But they still matter.

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We have all been familiarised with the unsustainable practices of the fast fashion industry. However, we do not often hear about unsustainable food and what we put into our bodies and the toll it takes on the environment. As a university student who lives alone, I have received many comments about the stereotype of having to eat ‘pot noodles’ all the time because of assumptions such as not having your mum’s cooking, or not knowing how to cook, and not being able to afford anything else. No, this is not a pity party. Yes, I have had to eat pot noodles but that has more to say about our government and the economic crisis we are currently in than it does about me as an individual. When I think of the word ‘sustainability’ automatically I picture the environment, and what it really means is what us humans are doing to the environment; the place we are living in, our homes, and our future. With the rise in the cost of living, we have all had to make certain sacrifices and compromises in order to survive, but how much longer do we have left to live if we have to work to survive? The ability to realise the impact your eating habits are causing to your body and the environment is one step closer to making the earth and your future a much better place. By all means, this is not an attempt at telling you that you are bad person and that others are better, instead I am here to help those who need it see a different perspective of food.

Sustainability is around us everywhere, whether we are doing it intentionally or if it is forced upon us. Undoubtedly, we have seen a huge decrease in the use of single-use plastic, which is demonstrated in our paper straws which sadly become soggy after only a few sips. Furthermore, coffee shops such as Starbucks, encourage customers to bring their own cups when purchasing a drink. Many brands now use recyclable sustainable material for their products and packaging. However, this does also show that we, as consumers, are not being sustainable by choice but because certain brands that we feel loyal to have to provide them. Consumers back in 2020 during the pandemic did lead sustainable lifestyles, such as that of having to shop more local to them, which again shows that it was not their own choice to do so but because it was technically the law for everyone around the world.

The truth about our favourite foods

I have an undeniably bad habit of eating really unhealthily. Being a student and trying to meet all of my assignment deadlines, I prefer having food ready-made and delivered straight to my doorstep. Not to mention the occasional ‘stress-eating’ of snacks and convincing myself that I have deserved a ‘treat’ each time I felt stressed and overwhelmed. The problem is that these foods that I have been consuming are actually considered unsustainable food. They consist of red meat, poultry, farmed fish, shrimp & prawns, rice, sugar, eggs, and cheese. Not only are they harmful to the environment, but also to us humans consuming them. So, if you are wondering what makes food unsustainable, this is the right place for you. I will break it down so that it is easier to read and understand:

Red meat:

Beef is a contributor to deforestation and climate change.

Lamb can ruin natural habitats which also releases very high levels of methane (a greenhouse gas) into the atmosphere.

Poultry:

The farming of chickens, pigs, ducks, and turkeys contribute to deforestation and water pollution. These animals are often fed with processed feeds.

Shrimp farming:

Mangroves are tropical trees that provide protection in cases of extreme natural disasters, like hurricanes, by absorbing storm surge impacts. Now, you may be wondering how shrimp farming and mangroves are linked. Well, the farming of shrimps has not only caused extreme water pollution but also extensive destruction of mangrove trees.

Cheese & Eggs:

Products of ruminant animals contributes to a much higher carbon footprint compared to that of plant-based foods.

Eggs are bad for the environment as they emit high levels of greenhouse gases.

Rice & Sugar:

Both of these products have a negative effect on our climate. A huge amount of methane is produced into the rice fields.

Sugar comes from sugarcanes which need a lot of water. Freshwater ecosystems are then polluted as a result of chemicals from the sugar mill factories. Contaminants are then ‘disposed’ of in the sea affecting the climate.  

Moving forward

As I begin my journey of slowly detoxing certain unsustainable foods from my system, I hope to inspire you and others who may be going through the same or similar situations and begin living a sustainable lifestyle. We should cut down on how often we eat non-renewable food sources and begin learning different recipes for plant-based meals. If you feel like you cannot cut anything out, perhaps opt for buying from brands that are sustainable, such as Biona, Rubies in the Rubble, Pip Organic, and Wholly Greens.

Conclusion

In summary, these are all non-renewable resources, meaning that they will run out one day. The more we get used to consuming them and by the time the day comes where we’ve ran out of them, we will end up panicking and not knowing what to actually eat, and thus World War III will start. Furthermore, studies show that around 7.2 million British adults that have gone meat-free. With the rise in veganism in the UK, the population can learn from vegans and follow in their footsteps before it is too late.

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Inequality disguised as being “special” and “gifted”

Equality can be defined as making sure that all humans have the same opportunity to live life the way they should regardless of their race, gender, sexual orientation, disabilities, etc. Looking back at my personal experience in secondary school during my GCSE’s, I was put on the spectrum for having learning difficulties, and therefore qualified for extra time. I remember being separated with my fellow extra time buddies away from the rest in the exam hall. It made me feel like there was something wrong with us, and that we were different, far from equal to my friends and everyone sat on the opposite side to me. Schools should not separate less able students to help the invigilators distinguish between those who can leave the hall and those who have extra time. I want to open your eyes to the hidden inequalities and discrimination to humans that are disguised as equalities. Industries claiming to be diverse and equal just for the sake of it, rather than actually living up to the name of it. Although there have been significant changes regarding equality, there are still many gaps left in the margin that need adhering to in order to make the changes necessary. Despite there being inequality around the world, this blog will hold the focus mainly on groups within the United Kingdom. The types of equality I will be exploring will be social equality, gender equality, and racial equality specifically within the workplace environment and how they all link together.

Social equality or social inequality?

Social equality is based on fairness and justice between the social class hierarchies of upper-class, middle-class, and working-class groups and individuals. Being socially equal also means having the same rights, freedom of speech, and being able to have equal access to the same goods and services. For example, marriage has always been available and acceptable for heterosexual individuals, however same-sex marriage in the UK only became legalised in the summer of 2014.

Income inequality and class divisions are common in the UK. Those who are already wealthy will continue to get more wealthy. This means that with the cost of living rising each year, the pay grade also rises as help scheme but it does not get the poor richer while things are increasing price. This links to the saying “the poorest get poorer and the richest get richer” meaning nobody will ever be financially equal.

Gender Equality and Inequality

Generally speaking, men have always been known to be in power. For years society was an immensely patriarchal one, where women had to stay at home, cook, clean, and look after the kids, while husbands were the ‘breadwinners.’ Today times have changed as we know it. Gender roles have switched and traditional norms of women staying at home are no more. We see this in the fact that women can now work and have rights to education as any man would. Definitely, one can say discrimination against women in this case have lessened in the United Kingdom. However, according to the Office for National Statistics, the gender pay gap in the UK is decreasing. Although it has greatly improved, the gap is still there which suggests that it will take a while for men and women to be deemed equal within the workforce.

Racial Inequality at work

In a study that surveyed 2,000 employees in the UK, it was found that BAME individuals felt coerced and pressured into behaving a certain way of professionalism that white individuals did not need to do because of their ‘privilege’. Results showed that 49% of the workers claimed that they felt they have to ‘mask their identity’ in order to fit in the workplace, while 43% were white employees who said they do not feel the need to conceal their true selves. These figures show how black and minority ethnic groups are treated differently by the board of directors of companies who are mainly white men and women. Many companies tend to employ BAME groups to come across as ethnically diverse, and yet make them feel different. Interestingly, 59% of BAME women said that they hide their real personalities when at work. It is important to note that white males are earning more than ethnic minorities. Data from the Office for National Statistics shows that most minority ethnic groups earn less than white British employees. All of these show that racial inequality in the workplace will be inevitable and not only at work but in public worldwide.

Let me paint you a picture

Evidently, we are living in a world where everybody has equal human rights regardless. Without historic inequality, there would not be any forms of equality that we have today. All of the protests and boycotts have massively paid off and impacted our lives for the better. However, in my opinion, there are still small ounces of inequality and prejudicial people within society that make up the workforce. These are proven from official statistics. There will always be a social hierarchy between human beings. Although members of the LGBTQIA+ community are given their rights, they are still experiencing discrimination throughout the course of their lives as they face social stigma and feel as though they are not protected from bigotry and violence the same as heterosexual groups and individuals. The three forms of inequality mentioned throughout all show a certain pattern. That pattern tells us that equality is not at 100% yet, and the reason for this is because old, outdated mindsets have not left. Some people are not open to new generational norms and values, although it should not be the norm to ask for basic human rights, we have done everything we can and should hope for a better future.

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The below Indian skincare brands combine cutting-edge, luxurious inventions with a subtle understanding of Indian skin, offering luxurious experiences right in your own space.

Written By

Niksha Sunder

In order to make up for all the moisture and hydration lost during this Winter season, it’s crucial to make sure your skin receives a sufficient quantity of both. Indian consumers are more likely than ever to favour locally produced goods and brands. This preference is not merely an attempt to promote the “Made in India” label; it is based on the plain observation that Indian products are equally as excellent as and maybe more reasonably priced than their global counterparts. Below we explore Indian Skincare Brands that suffice their western counterparts.

Indian Skincare Brands that are meant to be on everyone’s Winter Shopping Carts

Juicy Chemistry

Juicy Chemistry, one of the most well-liked domestic skincare companies, stands out with its reasonably priced organic line of products. The brand concentrates on delivering a healthy and all-natural skincare experience and employs only components that are 100 percent credentialed organic. Juicy Chemistry provides items for everyone and every aspect when it comes to body, face, and hair care. For individuals who wish to create their own skincare routine from start, they also provide personalised advice on their website. However, their Frankincense and Hemp Organic Facial Oil and Australian Tea Tree and Basil Hydrosol Mist, which are both excellent for dry and acne-prone skin, could be considered two of their skincare line’s highlight pieces.

Kama Ayurveda

Kama Ayurveda offers luxurious skincare at its best since it is ethical, socially conscious, and cruelty-free. Customers have engaged fervently in each launch for years, and the brand has established itself on the global market. The Ayurveda-made movement has been led by Kama Ayurveda for almost 20 years. Its skincare concept is centred on healing which uses both cutting-edge technology and natural components from the earth. Time-tested goods with devoted fans include Kama’s Kumkumadi Miraculous Beauty Fluid and the Bringadi Intensive Hair Treatment. Their fragrant Pure Neroli Water is ideal for moisturising and toning your skin if you wish to test one of their recent developments.

Arata

Arata is the company to choose if you want to find a hair care line that actually cares for your skin and hair while preventing future harm. Arata is a company that offers a distinctive selection of skincare and hair products. Arata concentrates on a gender-neutral product line that creates an inclusive environment in the beauty industry, from purifying sulfate – free shampoos to green tea serums. The company only employs natural materials and stays away from dangerous chemicals.

Skincare Routine to consider during the Winter

Hydrating Yet Gentle Cleanser in Step 1

Probably begin your day with a mild yet hydrating cleanser that removes dirt from deep into your skin while also replenishing moisture.

Step 2: Mist of Hydration
Spray a face mist after utilising a cleanser to give your skin an extra layer of moisture.

Option 1 for Step 3: Vitamin C
generally apply your preferred Vitamin C serum just after your skin has aired, since this promotes the formation of collagen and speeds up cell turnover, giving your skin a fresh, radiant appearance.

Step 3: Hyaluronic Acid (Option 2)
Hyaluronic Acid is the secret to giving your skin more moisture if Vitamin C is not for you. Applying hyaluronic acid right away after using a hydrating mist and then completing the process with a moisturiser whilst your skin may still be damp will create a moisture sandwich.

Apply a moisturiser
Since your skin tends to lose all of its moisture during the course of the day, it is crucial to choose a moisturiser that is not too harsh on the surface yet offers a significant level of moisture. Another useful suggestion is to always have moisturiser on hand and reapply it on a regular basis.

Dr Sheth’s

Dr. Sheth’s products are frequently seen making the rounds on the Instagram accounts of our beloved skin-care advocates, and as a domestic company, it certainly merits its time in the limelight. It is not surprising that founder Dr. Aneesh Sheth, who has a background in pharmacology and composition and is descended from eminent skincare authorities, started to realise that there was a severe shortage of research on Indian skincare that was tailored exclusively for the subcontinent. Indians now better understand their natural skin owing in large part to the brand. Dr. Sheth praises melanin, encourages individuals to take care of their skin, and, in the process, helps them develop a relationship with their skin in the middle of a poisonous colourism society.

Purearth

Beauty in the eyes of Purearth is mindful wellbeing. Its products blend luxury with a fierce enthusiasm for ethical skincare and are pure, mild, natural, and calm. Purearth provides gradual and artisanal formulations instead of rapid solutions, created in their zero-waste facilities using Himalayan-sourced materials. Its dedication to the environment is demonstrated by programmes like the Recycling Program, which collects empty product containers and plants a tree for every jar or bottle collected, and the Pure Purpose Foundation, which focuses on social impact. The company, which Kavita Khosa founded, also aims to provide regional manufacturers a solid foundation in metropolitan marketplaces. The company’s Body Polish, Body Butter, and Illumine Elixir Supercritical Face Oil are luxurious and award-winning goods.

Pahadi Local

The goal of Pahadi Local is to increase luxury while maintaining a cooperative and sustainable business. The elements for its offerings, which are derived from the Himalayas, are simple. There is no need to hunt for high-end experiences outside of nearby natural settings, according to founder Jessica Jayne. Pahadi Local offers a selection of teas, oils, and powdery face washes to meet all of your wellness requirements. Don’t miss their partnership with reputable luxury shop Good Earth or the Pen and Ink collection, created with interior designer and artist Usha Hooda.

Daughter Earth

Daughter Earth’s goods are made from plants and have a focus on empowering the underprivileged. They were created by combining Ayurveda and contemporary technology. After extensive research, the skincare line modernises wild alchemy with cutting-edge technology, giving customers the best of both worlds. It supports the education of girls and is cruelty-free, using only recyclable packaging. In addition, Daughter Earth collaborates with groups that share its concern for the environment, such as Plan India and the World Wildlife Fund. It is worthwhile to include its phytonutrient moisturiser and revitalising serum in your skincare regimen because of how well-liked they are.

Kal Hans

The goal of Kal Hans is for its consumers to have radiant, healthy skin and the self-assurance to understand that no skin is flawless and need not be. The brand makes the promise of nourishing and happy skin, imperfections and all, rather than guaranteeing the achievement of unattainable ideals of beauty. In an accident that left her with physical and mental wounds, the creator of the company, Lisa D’Mello, realised that in order to be attractive, one must love oneself. Our bodies provide for us in so many ways that they merit our gratitude. This thankfulness is something that Kal Hans tries to capture in their organic and vegan products. Those who desire glowing, dewy skin frequently use its Rejuvenate and Repair Serum.

Neemli

This locally – based, the family-owned company aims to confirm the science and effectiveness of natural skincare. Non-toxic Neemli offers products and individualised consultation services to meet the demands of a wide range of skin types. Neemli believes that real beauty is unfiltered, and their clients clearly agree because of their “No Filter Beauty” range is a top seller. Despite having its corporate headquarters in Mumbai, Neemli really started off by selling its goods at a flea market in Goa.

Indulgeo Essentials

Seema Arora and Supriya Malik, a mother-daughter team, launched the organic, upscale skincare company Indulgeo Essentials. The duo are of the opinion that skincare regimens may be made simple and enjoyable by examining nature attentively in order to find solutions for skin problems. Fine, unprocessed raw materials are meticulously mixed to create the items’ high quality and effectiveness. Volcanic Night Oil, Rejuvenating Eye Serum, and Squalene Skin Hydrator from Indulgeo Essentials have all consistently been top sellers and are ideal representations of the company’s philosophy.

The following skincare brands are some of the most sought – after winter skincare brands that have been drawing attention from audiences and are contributing to India’s growing luxury skincare and haircare brands and goods. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to fully comprehend the specific requirements of your skin before introducing any new steps to your beauty regimen. You should also thoroughly examine the contents of skin care products and note how your skin responds to them. Remember that there is no specific recipe for getting the perfect skin your desire. The way that each person’s skin responds to the same chemicals depends on their individual skin type. Having said that, if you would like your skin to gradually grow bright and healthy, we believe it is crucial to mix up your beauty regimen when the weather exterior changes.

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Ever since I was young, I always recognised my desire to go somewhere I’d never been. While most people dreaded packing, I would always get excited about it, viewing it as an exciting task that meant I was on my way to somewhere new.

I grew up in Mississippi, so the most traveling I did was to Florida for our annual family beach trip or to Houston to see my extended family for Christmas. My need to travel was ignited after I was lucky enough to spend five weeks studying abroad in Florence, Italy, with three weeks travelling around Europe after class concluded. The experience I had traveling abroad showed me a new life, and I haven’t been the same since.

When I travel, the most common question I get is, “oh, why are you going there?” and I’ve always been perplexed by the question, as if I need a reason to go somewhere other than just having the desire for new experiences.

In February 2018 I was sitting at work and had a random desire to go to the Caribbean. I tried to brush it off a bit, but I couldn’t stop thinking about it. I text one of my best friends and said, “Let’s… take a weekend trip to the Caribbean,” and she responded with, “I’m down!”

In April 2018, we went through with it and took our weekend trip to Belize’s smallest island, Caye Caulker. In addition to the travel experience and overwhelming sights this trip brought me, it also gave me an epiphany that shaped the rest of my life.

When planning this trip at first, I had the reservations in my mind along the lines of, “well, we couldn’t really do that. This is Belize! It’s a different country. You don’t just go to Belize for the weekend because you feel like it.” For a while the thought seemed too far-fetched, but then we went and my eyes were opened up to the possibilities of travel. In getting my best friend to tag along and following through with the trip, I came to the realisation that we truly have the power to do whatever our hearts desire, whenever they desire it. This trip gave me a newfound freedom that I could go wherever I wanted, whenever I wanted. Since this trip, international travel has become my hobby and I’m living the best years of my life in London with plans to make it a permanent home.

Airline loyalty can be a great thing, but when you’re searching for the best deals, keeping your options open is the smartest tactic. My go-to search engine is Google Flights, an incredibly useful tool designed by Google for smarter travel. My dad introduced me to this site in 2011, so I was definitely early to the game on cheap flights. I got to a point in my life where I was checking Google Flights more than my own social media (ask literally anyone who has had to work with or spend time with me). It allows you to play around with dates, destinations, and pricing to help you find the best deal. You’re able to see the history of the flight prices, the range in the current fares from low, normal, and high, the leg room, plane capabilities, and more. If you have a Google account, Google Flights will allow you to track pricing on flights you opt in on so you can watch as the price fluctuates over time to help you decide when to buy. Google Flights provides a plethora of incredible features, but my favourite has to be the Explore feature.

Through Google’s Explore feature, you can choose your home airport and type in any broad destination you’re interested in, such as “Europe” or “Caribbean Sea”. You can then select the duration and time you’d like your trip to be, and Google will show you the lowest fares to popular destinations in your specified area. You can also use their map feature, which will show you the lowest fares from your home airport to destinations all over the world during your time frame. If you have the desire to travel and are open to suggestions, Google Flights will be your most helpful search engine every time.

For deals that require the least amount of work on your end (if you’re based in the states), I highly recommend signing up for emails from Scott’s Cheap Flights. The service is free to anyone with an email address and has taken me all across the world. All you have to do is sign up with your email and watch your for the alerts! Each email contains information for everything you need to know to purchase the ticket: the departure airports, the destination airports, and the estimated time left before the deal expires. In addition to the free subscription, they also offer premium and elite subscriptions that send deals at a higher frequency with lower fares (and more perks). In one cheap flight with them, you’ll make back the money on your paid subscription by five. All subscriptions have access to mistake fares (my personal favourite). Scott’s also publishes guides that help educate you on how to travel affordably, and they’re always a gold mine. I love Scott’s so much that I kept my premium subscription even after I knew I was moving abroad, and still use it to send my friends incentives to come visit and stay up to date on going rates for international travel in the states so I know when I should go home. They’ve grown so much as a company since I started travelling, and I wholeheartedly believe this is the best investment you could make to enhance your travel life.

Once your tickets are purchased, your next job is to secure a place to stay. My two favourite ways to find a home away from home are Booking.com and Airbnb. Depending on the city, sometimes staying in an Airbnb is more affordable than a hotel, and vice versa. If you’ve taken a spur of the moment trip and need a place to stay on short notice, I recommend the app Hotel Tonight. In an effort to fill up their rooms, hotels in contract with Hotel Tonight provide special rates for users at discounted prices for last minute travelers, which is how I ended up staying at a $250 hotel for $80 on the Las Vegas Strip the summer of 2018, but that’s another story. They have a wonderful app, but also have a desktop version.

My best practices I’ve adopted over the years:

Keep an open mind.
The key to travelling cheap is keeping an open mind about where to go. Throughout my years of travelling, one of the most important things I’ve learned is to go with the flow. All it takes is one missed train to throw off an entire day of scheduled plans (from experience), so always be open to see where travelling can take you. We all have bucket list destinations, but don’t base the entirety of your travel plans on specific places; this can create a rigid structure without much wiggle room. There is so much of the world to see; if something strikes you, jump on it, even if you’ve never considered it before. My absolute favourite memories have come from the unexpected, so keep an open mind when choosing travel destinations. Let the deals take you to somewhere you’ve never dreamed of that will end up impacting your life forever. As crazy as it sounds, if you shop the deals correctly, you can find international flights for cheaper than a domestic flight! Going out of the country doesn’t seem like a thing you just do on the whim, but… why not?

Be flexible.
Some airports are better to fly out of than others, and that’s something that will never change. My home airport used to be RNO, where TSA took 5 minutes to get through, 15 max; needless to say there weren’t loads of cheap flights flowing through my little airport in Reno, Nevada. But, a short flight away, I had access to LAX, SFO, SMF, OAK, SEA, DEN, and more. If you catch a cheap flight from an airport a little further away, it’s absolutely worth looking into a connecting flight. Let’s say the cheap fare you find is from JFK to FCO, but you live in Houston (true story). Your flight is in 6 months, which means you have 6 months to sit and search for the perfect fare to NYC. Opening up your airport search options will open up your whole world, and can give you a little vacation before your vacation. I’ve done this on nearly every trip I’ve been on; it gives me the freedom to pay for the flight and start a search for cheaper connecting flights while I wait for my big trip. This is how I got my entire family to Rome for $456 total (four tickets) with a 12 hour stopover in NYC to do all the touristy things, spent my favourite Valentines night yet with a complimentary bottle champagne in a Kimpton hotel in Boston before a week in Ireland, and met up with my best friend in Munich for a coffee before setting off to Paris.

Do your research.
Make sure to do your research. Whether you’re headed to a foreign country or across state lines, educate yourself on the town and the trip prior to leaving. Spend time finding a great place to stay, taking into consideration the proximity to the sights you want to see, public transportation, and safety. In international situations, there’s a little more to think about. Look into the vaccines you need, where the best place for money exchange is, and how much money you’ll need for the entirety of your trip (factor in emergencies). Once you’ve researched enough to get a general feel of your destination, set a budget- for food, experiences, souvenirs, and getting around town. Take a look at excursions before you go. When traveling on a budget, you want to know that you’re getting the best deal for your money, and the best way to do that is to stay informed and well-researched. Be sure to check out sites on platforms like Google reviews and Trip Advisor to see what visitors and locals have to say about the best places to visit in town. I also utilise Pinterest any time I’m going to a new destination.

Something that has occurred to me in recent years is the concept of ecotourism, defined as “a form of tourism involving responsible travel to natural areas, conserving the environment, and improving the well-being of the local people,”. This has become more and more important to me as I’ve grown, and especially after living in one of America’s top tourism destinations. It’s worth a thought to see how tourism effects the local population, how to ensure care for the natural areas your visiting, and more.

Budget, but not TOO much.
When figuring out your daily budget, make sure to give yourself leeway to enjoy your time travelling. As a person who revolves her life around budget travelling, I can honestly say that on the times I’ve obsessed over spending the least amount of money possible have ended up on my short list of regrets in my life (spoiler: it was mostly food, and a coffee cup from the gift shop at Musée d’Orsay). Don’t throw your budget out the window, but make sure you’ve allowed yourself enough money to enjoy yourself properly. The only thing you’ll regret more than spending too much money is missing out on experiences because you were too tight pocketed. Keep it within reason, but don’t forget you’re traveling for those new experiences.

Don’t hesitate.
If you think you’ve found a great deal, buy! the! tickets! If you see a good deal, take it! As great as it is to do some research beforehand, it can always be done after the tickets are bought. You don’t want to miss out on an opportunity because you hesitated and subsequently lost the low fare. What’s better than the adrenaline of diving into the unknown AND scoring a cheap ticket to somewhere you’ve never been?! I missed a low fare once and learned my lesson. Act first, plan later. Some tickets are also available much in advance; my ticket to Barcelona cost $185 and I had an entire year to plan for the trip.

Some places my travels have taken me:

Hawaii | $99

Rome | $114

Barcelona | $185

Peru | $247 (this was after I hesitated and didn’t get the one for $185, seriously, don’t hesitate).

Belize | $250

Paris | $308

Cook Islands | $546 (RIP, cancelled during pandemic).

By doing your research, jumping on deals, keeping an open mind, and remaining flexible on your routes, your world will get a whole lot smaller in the best way.

What I hope you’ll take with you is that you can do the same. You just have to be brave enough to go. Life is too short. You’ll only regret the trips you don’t take.

The post Think fast, stay flexible: how to see the world on a budget first appeared on wbsdigital.

Being in London during the Christmas season is really a magical experience. As Christmas comes, the city’s often dreary vibe is replaced with amazing lights and exciting events, transforming it into a really magical place. Whether you’re interested in classical events, fun activities, Christmas markets, ice skating, or just a feel-good holiday dinner, Christmas in London offers it all.

Shortly, there are lots of things to see but this guide to the best things to do in London at Christmas will take you to all the cool activities and locations.

Here are the favorite things to do in London during Christmas, which would get you in a festive mood.

Top Tips

• Warm up: British weather is unpredictable, with high winds one minute and rain the next (sometimes both at the same time). Don’t forget waterproof layers.
• Book in advance: Some popular attractions can be highly busy, make sure that you book in advance and plan your day.
• Keeping out shopping madness: Avoiding Christmas crowds is predictable, you may reduce stress by planning ahead, avoiding peak hours, and shopping early in the day.

1.Take a self-guided tour to see Christmas lights

One of the best ways to start Christmas in London is the dazzling festive lights with historic architecture and iconic streets. Many are within convenient walking distance of the city center of London. You can start at Oxford Street, a place where the night sky is illuminated by five thousand LED stars, next head up Regent Street to see the dazzling angels, and then drop into Carnaby Street to be stunned by the multicolored displays.

Also, there is another magical place that gets more popular every year, Kew Gardens. It is one of London’s most beautiful locations at any time of year, but during Christmas, it really becomes alive with more than a million illuminated lights and displays. Thus, Christmas at Kew is the favorite of all Londoners, especially families with children. Check the official website to get more information.

2. Explore Christmas Markets

Christmas markets in London are the best places if you want to have a lovely day filled with delicious street food, boozy pop-up bars, and sparkly souvenirs. While exploring the markets, it is highly recommended that giving in to the tempting aromas (fresh churros, spicy bratwurst, and handmade mince pies, to name a few) wafting from the many foods stands. Also, hot chocolate and mulled wine can keep you toasty as you peruse the gift booths filled with unique Christmas treasures. Here are some of the best markets in London:

Covent Garden Christmas Market

Festive music, people selling Christmas wares, and plenty of treats to eat and drink

Here, you can see beautiful decorations, including huge baubles, over 30,000 lights, mistletoe chandeliers, and also its legendary 60-foot tree, surrounding the covered market and plaza.

When: From 8 November 2022, open seven days a week

Address: Covent Garden, The Market Building, London WC2E 8RF

Website: https://www.coventgarden.london/christmas-in-covent-garden/

Price: Free entry

Southbank Centre Winter Festival

Stroll down the Thames when it is lit up, indulge in delicious cocktails and mouthwatering street cuisine, browse gifts and decorations from independent sellers, watch joyous shows in east Tennessee, and explore exhibitions.

When: From 3 November to 26 December 2022, Sunday-Thursday 11am-10pm and Friday-Saturday 11am-11pm

Address: Southbank Market, The Queen’s Walk, London SE1 8XX

Website: https://www.southbankcentre.co.uk/whats-on/festivals-series/winter-festival

Price: Free entry

Christmas By The River

Discover fairy-lit wooden cottages, market vendors selling a variety of handcrafted goods as well as holiday fayre along the River Thames with the iconic city skyline, and enjoy interesting restaurants, pubs, cafés, and stores.

When: From 15 November 2022 to 2 January 2023, Sunday-Wednesday 11 am-9 pm and Thursday-Saturday 11 am-10 pm

Address: London Bridge City

Website: https://londonbridgecity.co.uk/events/2022/november/christmas-by-the-river-2022

Price: Free entry

Leicester Square Christmas Market

Explore the traditional market’s wonderful selection of crafts and delectable delicacies, have a joyful time, and then go to the Belgian Spiegeltent to see La Clique play.

When: From 9 November 2022 to 8 January 2023, check the website for different times

Address: Leicester Square, London, WC2H 7LU

Website: https://www.christmasinleicestersquare.com/

Price: Free entry

3. Spend an evening in Winter Wonderland

Another of the best thing to do for feeling the Christmas spirit is to visit London’s Hyde Park to take part in Winter Wonderland, a delightful family event. From ice skating and circus performances to a Christmas market and live music, there is more than enough activity to last all day and into the night. Check the official website to get more information about attractions and plan your day.

When: From 18 November 2022 to 2 January 2023, Monday-Sunday 10 am-10 pm

Address: Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park, London W2 2UH

Price: Check the website for different ticket types and times

Top tips for Winter Wonderland:

Book your ticket and buy attractions in advance

Pick the best time according to different ticket prices

Make sure to wear warm clothing for this outside attraction

4. Go Ice Skating

During the holiday season, one of the city’s most popular activities is skating on the temporary ice rinks that appear in prominent locations all across town. Check out London’s top outdoor ice skating rinks, which range from gorgeous historic settings to contemporary settings. Here are the top ice skating rinks in London listed below.

Somerset House Ice Rink

One of the most well-known skating rinks in London is located at Somerset House. You can enjoy a midday skate session around the neoclassical courtyard and its magnificent Christmas tree, or a nighttime skate with DJ music playing above. After that, you can warm up with some Hotel Chocolat’s decadent hot chocolate or a drink from the Moët & Chandon Skate Lounge. 

It will be open from 16 November 2022 to 15 January 2023.

See the official website to get more detail about times, tickets and special events.

Glide Ice Rink

In 2022, Battersea Power Station will host the city’s first and only riverside ice skating rink. It is definitely worth seeing out this latest Glide Ice Rink placed against a spectacular background of the city’s greatest historic buildings and centered around a 30-foot Christmas tree.

See the official website to get more detail about times, tickets and special events.

Canary Wharf Ice Rink

Enjoy a fantastic ice-skating experience among dazzling lights at Ice Rink Canary Wharf. The rink, which is surrounded by some of London’s highest buildings, is open for a far longer period of time than other ice rinks, until the end of February. You may get a drink at the bar right next to the rink, or you can visit one of the many popular restaurants or pubs in the area.

Also, you can explore the Greenwich Christmas Market just three stops away.

5. Christmas Carols at St Paul’s

Christmas Carols at St Paul’s is the ideal event for you if you want to experience the Christmas spirit at one of London’s most historic locations. Family-friendly services and a night of instrument carols produced by French composer Olivier Messiaen are just two of the many free, unticketed events that take place at the iconic London landmark every year. Clearly, it is one of the most festive feelings and special events you can experience with the backdrop of Sir Christopher Wren’s architectural marvel.

See the website to get more information about events and tickets.

6. Christmas Shopping

One of the best things in the holiday season is making your loved ones happy with incredible gifts and London has lots of iconic places to do Christmas shopping.

London hotspots like Oxford Street, Bond Street, and Regent Street are great places to start, but you can also find heritage brands in Carnaby, boutiques in Covent Garden and Seven Dials, and bespoke clothing in St. James’s, or you can shop at one of Westfield’s two sizable malls all under one roof.

As evening approaches, you may also go to Knightsbridge to view the famous department store Harrods shining with more than 12,000 lightbulbs and to peruse the store’s enormous Christmas shop, which is stocked with luxury decorations, premium Christmas crackers, and designer gifts.

Merry Christmas!

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We’re doomed if we don’t combine our brains with artificial intelligence. We will be left in the dust by algorithms, our grey matter’s processing power dwarfed by that of machines.

Don’t know about you all but Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, believes so.

 

“Obviously, we want to be extremely careful and certain that it will work well before putting a device in a human, but we’re submitted, I think, most of our paperwork to the FDA,” he said.

Musk also said he plans to get one himself. “You could have a Neuralink device implanted right now and you wouldn’t even know. I mean, hypothetically … In fact, in one of these demos, I will,” he said.

The Washington Post said it was “unclear whether the FDA is considering a request to begin human trials”.

 

“We’ve been working hard to be ready for our first human, and obviously we want to be extremely careful and certain that it will work well before putting a device in a human,” Elon said.

 

Some believe that human progress will eventually lead to human-machine fusion. Macro-historian Yuval Noah Harari wrote extensively on the subject in his book Homo Deus. Harari said, “In the future, it is likely that the smartphone will not be separated from you at all, it may be embedded in your body or brain, constantly scanning your biometric data and your emotions.”

 

In the meantime, Kevin Warwick, a cybernetics professor at Coventry University, told Wired that he agrees “100%” with Musk regarding the necessity of combining with AI: “That’s the way to go and it’s incredibly exciting.”

What Is Neuralink?

With Elon Musk leading the organisation, it’s not a leap to say that Neuralink’s goal could have been taken from a mad scientist’s journal. However, if you look past what at first glance appears to be a science fiction horror film, you can catch a peek at a very different future for humanity—one that possesses a sixth sense called Neuralink. NO, BUT SERIOUSLY…NEURAWHAT?
Well, Neuralink is a tool that will first be used to assist paraplegics with basic things like using an iPhone and clicking a mouse on a computer without making any bodily movements. To be clear, human trials have not yet begun. Elon Musk and his colleagues are optimistic that they will get underway by the end of 2020, they base that prediction on the difficulty of obtaining FDA approval. According to Musk, Neuralink prototypes have so far been tested on rodents and even monkeys.

Neuralink does require some components to be surgically implanted on the surface of the brain. However, since the 1970s, brain implants have been the subject of study and development, testing, and application. It’s only that until recently, brain implants weren’t viewed as improvements because our brains are still largely a mystery, and we have only lately begun to unravel the genetic basis of our intelligence.

By conducting a test with electrodes—devices that are used to detect electric fields—they were able to come to this conclusion. In the brain, electric fields happen when neurons fire messages to one another; Neuralink utilises the electrodes to determine when this is happening.
At the very least, the electrodes need to be located underneath the skull. And that is precisely what they intend to achieve. The electrodes will be attached beneath the skull along with a tiny receiver. No, you won’t have an antenna protruding from your head, and poles won’t be poking holes in your head.

 

What might the world of neuralinks look like?

Most of us consider having a bionic superbrain chip robotically implanted in our heads to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. That is how Musk and his group intend to preserve it. Already annoying; software updates constantly take place when we do not want them to. The attractiveness of having a superbrain is somewhat diminished by the thought of having to visit the neighbourhood neurosurgeon each time the software requests an upgrade. As a result, a sizable portion of Neuralink is worn behind the ear, outside of the skull.
The battery and software are both housed in this wearable, known as the Link. In this manner, one may take the smartphone out to recharge when the battery is at 5%. The processing for a software update also takes place on the Link.

These things are really, really small. We really cannot manipulate them with our hand. The threads are peeled off one at a time by the robot to place into the brain… So we had to build a surgical robot… The surgery is not possible without the robot.

– Max Hodak, President of Neuralink

 Max Hodak, a co-founder and president of Neuralink, resigned from his position in April 2021. 

He disclosed that he was engaged in a rival in February 2022.

Hodak tweeted that he was still a “big cheerleader” for Neuralink after making the announcement that he had left the firm a few weeks earlier on May 1, 2021.

In a blog post from February 2022, Hodak revealed that he had been advising Synchron, 

a competing biotech firm that had beaten Neuralink to human testing through its own neural interface technology.

Hodak also informed Bloomberg via email that he had invested in Synchron.

“I really don’t want this to be construed as a knock on Neuralink.”

“I’m sure they will also get into humans soon too,” Hodak told Bloomberg.

[Neuralink] is not a mandatory thing. This is a thing you can choose to have if you want. This is something I think will be really important at a civilization-level scale.

– Elon Musk

During a “show and tell” recruitment event recently, Neuralink, Elon Musk’s health technology company, provided advancements in its brain-implant technology. During the occasion, Musk declared his intention to purchase one of the implants for himself.

The first time Musk stated that Neuralink might start testing on humans was during an appearance on “The Joe Rogan Experience” podcast in May 2020. In a February 2021 Clubhouse interview, he asserted the same thing. Neuralink, in Musk’s opinion, may give the human brain a third level of digital superintelligence. Their ultimate objective is to integrate artificial intelligence with humans (AI).

“We are already a cyborg to some degree,” Musk said to Rogan:

 

“You have your phone, laptops, and devices. I mean today, if you don’t bring your phone along, it is like you have missing limb syndrome. We are already partly a cyborg.”

In the podcast with Rogan, Musk suggested that Neuralink might one day allow people to communicate without using words.- “If the development continues to accelerate…then, maybe …5 to 10 years. That’s the best case scenario…10 years, more like it.” He added, “It could, in principle, fix anything that’s wrong with the brain.”

Neuralink might be able to cure neurological disorders:

Neuralink seeks to treat neurological disorders, including Alzheimer’s, dementia, and spinal cord injuries, by implanting wireless brain-computer interfaces with thousands of electrodes in the most complex human organ.
“An implantable device can actually solve these problems,” on a webcast, Mr. Musk mentioned conditions like memory loss, hearing loss, melancholy, and insomnia.

 

Violation of Animal Welfare Act

According to Reuters, the Animal Welfare Act, which specifies how researchers should handle such animal testing and treatment, is the subject of the inquiry, which the Inspector General Office of the US Department of Agriculture launched.

Many test animals have been killed due to Musk’s dangerous experiments and needless animal suffering in the name of expediting progress.
According to the news agency, repetitive or ill-planned studies have resulted in the unnecessary death of animals.

Conclusion
Today’s technology has improved a crucial aspect of our lives. It is quite noticeable how we are surrounded by technological evidence, such as laptops, mobile phones, smart TVs, and other devices. Technology that multiplies overcomes cultural barriers that have existed for a long time.
Digital technologies have advanced more quickly than ever before, transforming cultures, and affecting approximately half of the population in affluent nations just within the span of two decades.
On the other hand, with this fast-paced technological advancement comes some serious concerns like data security, crime and terrorism, complexity, privacy concerns, social disconnect, digital media manipulation, addiction, depression and, etc.

Observe closely, the live demo of neuralink. 

Reports not looking good:

According to reports, the FDA turned down Neuralink’s request for human testing because of several safety issues. In its decision to reject an application of Elon Musk’s brain-chip firm for human testing, the FDA listed hundreds of issues with the company’s technology.   The written FDA denial is a private document that hasn’t been made available to the public.

 

It is crucial to remember that even if Neuralink’s request for human trials was denied by the FDA, the business could still carry out non-human testing and research.

How it is going to take for the new technology to reach the market, how will it be regulated, how much will it cost, and what are its limitations?

Let’s use the lessons we’ve learned from the past to modern technology development. Not through regulation, lobbying, capital gains tax, but other means of pressure. I’m referring to pressure that comes from having compassion, empathy, and care for the souls.

Humanity won’t exist without it.

The post Neuralink: Is It a Tech Miracle or Threat to Humanity? first appeared on wbsdigital.

Things to experience when visiting London during Christmas
Christmas markets – such as Covent Garden and Oxford Street – as well as some of its lesser-known gems like Camden Market. And don’t forget about the Dickens Carol Fair at Trafalgar Square – one of London’s oldest annual events. In the meantime, make sure to warm up with a festive drink or two at one of the city’s many pubs and bars!

If you’re looking for a festive and culturally enriching experience this holiday season, look no further than London! The Christmas season is a magical time to visit the city, with plenty of events and attractions to enjoy. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best things to see and do in London during Christmas.

Weihnachtsmarkt
London’s Christmas Market has something for everyone. The market is open from November 25th to January 7th and features over 150 stalls selling everything from traditional German Christmas fare to local artisan gifts. With temperatures dropping in the evenings, there is no better way to spend a cold winter evening than checking out London’s festive market!

The Thames

If you’re looking to add a little Christmas cheer to your London experience, there are plenty of things to do and see. Here are five ideas:

1. Catch a performance of A Christmas Carol at the London Palladium.
2. Take a festive walk along the Thames River.
3. Attend a Christmas market in one of London’s many neighborhoods.
4. Watch a festive light show at London’s famous Trafalgar Square.
5. Get into the spirit of things by dressing up for a Christmas party!

Piccadilly Circus

When in London, don’t forget to visit Piccadilly Circus. This famous intersection is home to many shops and restaurants, as well as a giant Christmas tree.

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