Table of contents for December 2024/January 2025 in Readers Digest Australia

Our cats are silly, moody, fluff balls we love to love, yet much of our cats’ behaviour is a mystery, including why they scratch furniture. Scratching is a normal aspect of cat behaviour. Your cat might decide to scratch the furniture to remove the dead layer of claw, to mark their territory or to simply stretch. Celia Haddon, a cat behaviourist and author of Being Your Cat: What’s Really Going On In Your Feline’s Mind, also says scratching may make a cat feel more emotionally secure in their space. Scratching is a primal instinct that helps cats in the wild, so your much-loved cat is simply being a cat. But there are ways to redirect their instincts. While experts don’t believe cats can be trained not to scratch at all,…

YOUR PARTNER AND YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE If your partner has high blood pressure, you might be on your way to having high blood pressure, too. That’s the finding of a large multinational study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association. The study investigated whether married couples who often share the same interests, living environment, lifestyle habits and health outcomes, might also share high blood pressure. Scientists looked at thousands of couples across the US, England, China and India, finding a clear link where blood pressure was concerned. Improving blood pressure, too, can be a family affair. BRAINY BENEFITS OF MULTIVITAMINS Wouldn’t it be nice if there were a simple pill you could take to ward off dementia? That magic pill might be a daily multivitamin, according to new…

There are two types of people – those who get to the airport four hours early and still worry about missing their flight, and those who think the final boarding call is a good time to get a coffee – and they marry each other. @MEDIOCREMAMAA Opened cupboard in hotel to check for murderers while simultaneously realising I was unprepared should one be in there. @ANNIEMUMARY The younger generation will never know the absolute panic of dropping the road map directions and the pages getting mixed up while a dad screams, “WHAT EXIT DO I TAKE?” @EMILYKMAY…

FROM THE WASHINGTON POST Gary Guadagno had lost hope of ever finding his parents’ wedding rings. While selling his childhood home in Pennsylvania in 2011, just before his mother’s passing, Guadagno searched high and low for the rings. He didn’t find them. He figured his mother, who had Alzheimer’s, had thrown them out. He was devastated, but didn’t know what else to do besides move on. “They’re keepsakes and part of my family legacy,” he says. A decade passed and the rings never turned up. Then, last year, Guadagno got a Facebook message from Hannah Keuscher, who had bought his mother’s house back in 2011. Her husband, Josh Martin, had discovered a jewellery box with two rings inside a kitchen light fixture. Keuscher and Martin suspected they held sentimental value…

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“If you’ve had past anaesthetic and recovered well that’s a pretty good sign you’ll do OK this time, too,” says Professor Myles. “But, if you’re coming up for a bigger operation, or you’re older than you were when you last had surgery, start preparing as if you were going to run a marathon,” he says. • Get your body in shape during the six weeks before surgery. • Quit smoking if you can, cut back on alcohol, eat a good diet and start some kind of daily exercise. • The more muscle mass you have, the stronger your heart and lungs are and the better your circulation is, the better you’ll handle both anaesthesia and surgery. • If you’ve had nausea and vomiting in the past, make sure the medical…

It feels like we are living in busy times. According to the OECD Better Life Index, 12.5% of Australians report working at least 50 hours a week, higher than the OECD average. Many Australians are also working more than one job to buffer against cost-of-living pressures. Psychology has long been interested in our goals – our mental representations of desirable outcomes. Much of this research is on how we form, pursue and attain goals, plus how goals make us feel. Across studies, we see a consistent pattern of successful goal pursuit and wellbeing. So, having time to work towards our goals is important. With this in mind, what is the best way to get things done – and how can we get better at achieving our goals, especially when we…

Last year, police in British Columbia, Canada, fielded more than 2.3 million emergency calls. Here are the less-than-urgent reasons why some were made. • To ask for directions home from a music concert. • The traffic light was taking too long to turn green. • They lost a nose ring down the shower drain. • The barber gave them a bad haircut. • Their Uber Eats order was taking too long. • A burger restaurant wouldn’t let them in before opening. • They couldn’t find their smartphone. CTV NEWS…

My father would invite everybody for a Sunday paella once a month. My mother was always like, “What happens if more people show up?” My dad would say, “We add more rice to the pan.”JOSÉ ANDRÉS, CHEF Tomorrow doesn’t exist, yesterday is gone. The more I remind myself of that, the stronger I feel.LIAM HEMSWORTH, ACTOR Everybody is always like, ‘You must be a really good liar,’ and no, I’m actually a truth teller, and I’m telling someone else’s truth. If I’m lying, then I’m not doing my job correctly.SYDNEY SWEENEY, ACTOR YOU NEED TO TRUST YOURSELF AND LOVE YOURSELF BEFORE OTHERS CAN LOVE YOU.XIXI LIM, ACTOR AND PRESENTER A good friend is a connection to life – a tie to the past, a road to the future, the key…

100% Voted By Australian Consumers CAPTURING THE LOYALTY AND SATISFACTION OF CUSTOMERS is not easy for a business to achieve – and it’s even harder to keep. Yet those companies that successfully build and maintain customer loyalty have a valuable business formula indeed. This is the 11th consecutive year Reader’s Digest has surveyed consumers to identify which organisations are getting big ticks of approval from their customers. This year’s survey – like in previous years – has revealed those businesses that consumers enjoy dealing with, businesses that don’t take the loyalty of their customers for granted. The financial uncertainty of the previous year has continued, with unremittingly high living costs, interest rates and rents. So consumers have been cautious and more discerning when making the step of purchasing products and services,…

WHAT STARTED OUT IN 2000 as a single pharmacy in Melbourne, has since grown to become Australia’s leading pharmacy retailer and a household name. Chemist Warehouse is a pharmacy powerhouse and market leader, committed to providing easily accessible and affordable health, wellness and beauty solutions for all customers. Today, Chemist Warehouse has over 535 stores across Australia and has opened its doors in New Zealand, Ireland, Dubai and China, employing over 20,000 people globally. Chemist Warehouse prides itself on exceptional customer service. From shop front to head office, extensive face to face training ensures staff are empowered with the tools, skills and detailed product knowledge to best guide and assist their valued customers. The Chemist Warehouse customer relationship management (CRM) team offers a best in class service – fast, efficient…

PUTTING MEMBERS FIRST WITH SIMPLE, AFFORDABLE INSURANCE AND EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE! For over 50 years, ahm has been dedicated to making insurance simple and affordable for Australians. Founded in Wollongong in 1971, ahm was built to care for its members with easy, no-fuss cover. Today, ahm offers a range of products, while staying true to its people-first philosophy. What sets ahm apart is its local, Aussie-based support. Their contact centre in Wollongong is filled with friendly, knowledgeable agents trained to listen, understand, and solve problems. Whether members need help with claims or have questions, ahm’s team goes above and beyond. As part of the Medibank group, their values – Customer Obsessed, Break Boundaries, Show Heart, and Brilliance Together – guide everything they do. In one case, an agent noticed a member…

FOR MORE THAN 38 YEARS, the proudly Australian-founded company Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours has been committed to curating and delivering exceptional handcrafted land touring itineraries. Its journeys are designed for travellers who seek immersive and enriching travel experiences and luxury service. Scenic’s worldwide portfolio of land tours, river cruises and ocean voyages take guests to more than 60 countries. Travelling in luxury, guests can discover moments of wonder on handcrafted land journeys in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, South East Asia, Europe, Egypt, Jordan and Africa. An unparalleled guest experience is at the heart of everything Scenic does. Guests can enjoy a truly personalised journey, setting their own pace and pursuing their interests from a wide selection of all-inclusive Scenic Freechoice activities and exclusive Scenic Enrich events. With Scenic, it’s…

90 YEARS OF CARING SINCE 1935, RESTHAVEN has been providing care and support for older Australians, and their carers. Celebrating its 90th birthday in 2025, Resthaven is one of a select few in South Australia to offer the full range of aged care services – from retirement living and support to remain living at home, through to high level residential aged care. Associated with the Uniting Church in Australia, the not-for-profit aged care provider remains a personcentred organisation, putting people first to ensure everyone is valued and heard. “Our purpose is working together to enrich the lives of older people,” says Darren Birbeck, Chief Executive Officer. “Our values – trust, dignity and choice – form a solid moral compass that shapes all organisational decisions, continually directing the focus back to our…

CONFIDENCE AND TRUST SEE BRIDGESTONE SELECT TYRE & AUTO WIN GOLD FOR INDEPENDENT CAR SERVICING Bridgestone Select Tyre & Auto continues to go from strength-to-strength as a convenient and trusted mechanical provider with its latest accolade, Reader’s Digest’s Quality Service Gold Award for Independent Car Servicing. The network of more than 200 Bridgestone Select Tyre & Auto stores throughout Australia continues to build on the strength of Australia’s most trusted tyre brand, Bridgestone, and instil confidence with motorists through complete transparency through the Bridgestone Tech Check platform. Bridgestone Tech Check sees customers receive a 60-second video via SMS directly from the technician working on their car, showing them an expert’s viewpoint on what needs repairing now, and what can wait. With the network serving as a trusted one-stop shop for…

THE BEST EXPERIENCE BEGINS with the best service. Royal Caribbean is proud to go beyond your every expectation to deliver the friendly, award-winning service they are famous for. 2025 is shaping up to be another monumental year for Royal Caribbean with the launch of their second Icon Class ship. Star of the Seas is an iconic family holiday, featuring mind-blowing thrills and next level chills, offering weeklong getaways from Port Canaveral, Florida. Closer to home, leave weekday worries behind onboard Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas, sailing from Sydney, or Quantum of the Seas, from Brisbane, this 2024/25 summer. Already planning your 2025/26 summer holiday? Royal Caribbean is welcoming Anthem of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas to Aussie waters, with Broadway musical, ‘We Will Rock You’, ice-skating shows and…

RSPCA PET INSURANCE uses a customer-first approach, emphasising respectful, honest service and clear, straightforward communication. To enhance customer service and deliver a seamless experience, RSPCA Pet Insurance offers multiple feedback channels — including email, phone, and social media — allowing customers to share their thoughts and suggestions. By actively seeking customer feedback, they continuously refine their processes and services. RSPCA Pet Insurance is committed to customer care, and this is evident throughout its operations, including its dedicated Australian-based team, available Monday to Friday, 8am-8pm (AEST), excluding public holidays. RSPCA Pet Insurance provides flexible coverage for pet owners across Australia, covering up to 80% of eligible vet bills1 with no excess when your dog or cat is sick or injured. You can easily manage your policy online, from submitting and tracking claims…

OVER HIS 25-YEAR CAREER, tennis great Roger Federer built a reputation as a brilliant sportman, as well as a likeable and down-to-earth family man. In ‘Life Is Great’ (page 28), Roger shares a glimpse into his new life off the court, and reveals he’s taking on new challenges with the same drive and enthusiasm that helped him win 20 Grand Slams. When we welcome in a new year, many of us turn to fresh starts and make resolutions to change our old ways. ‘Encounters That Enrich’ (page 32) looks at how volunteering can improve both our social and mental wellbeing. And if you’re prone to feeling stressed, be sure to read ‘Simmer Down’ (page 38) for tips on how to dial back the negatives in your life. This issue, we…

Roughly 6.3 million Australians are nearsighted today. The World Health Organization predicts that about half of the world’s population will have myopia, or nearsightedness, by 2050. It’s clear that our vision is becoming increasingly blurry, but researchers are only now beginning to understand why. Generally a childhood phenomenon, myopia happens when the eyeball grows too long from front to back, taking on more of an oval shape versus a sphere. Eyes have a ‘stop signal’ so that they grow proportionally with the head, explains Gregory Schwartz, an associate professor at the Departments of Ophthalmology and Neuroscience at the Feinberg School of Medicine at Northwestern University. However, that signal can be interrupted by genetic and environmental factors, which leads to our eyeballs growing a bit too much, making them too big…

The Laver Cup has been held since 2017. In this three-day tournament, six tennis professionals compete against each other: a ‘Europe’ team and a team from the rest of the world. One of the two men behind the tournament is Roger Federer, 20-time Grand Slam winner from Switzerland – considered by many to be the greatest in the history of his sport. The 42-year-old ended his career in September 2022 and rarely gives interviews. But the Laver Cup, held in different cities around the world each September, means so much to him that he is happy to make an exception. Question: Rod Laver is considered a tennis legend, he not only won all four Grand Slams in one season once, but twice, in 1962 and 1969. What impresses you about…

My jaw hurts. Big deal, right? At least at first: it starts with a looming deadline or a tiff with my spouse, but tension leads to jaw clenching and then pain. Soon chewing hurts, so my blood sugar drops and my head starts to ache. I cancel plans to exercise or see a friend, and my mood goes south fast. A good night’s sleep is impossible. I toss and turn and clench my jaw some more, then start it all again tomorrow. Even the tiniest seed of stress can quickly snowball into debilitating symptoms. Not anxious or irritable or depressed although it can do that, too. I mean physically ill – from dead stem cells causing prematurely grey hairs down to reduced blood flow in your toes (seriously: ‘foot tingling’…

Anonymously I asked kids (aged six) to write New Year’s resolutions. Here are some favourites… “Eat more butter” “Build a mud hut” “Learn to drive” “Try my hardest at everything but not maths” “Invent Google” @GEORGEPOINTON_ I don’t need a New Year’s resolution. It’s the year’s turn to be better. @CHARLOTTEIRENE8 My New Year’s resolution is for my body to make less sound when I stand up. @ADAMGREATTWEET Read more (or at least turn the subtitles on while binge-watching TV). @SCARYMOMMY My New Year’s resolution is to be more assertive if it’s OK with you guys. @MEGANKCOMEDY…

I should be ungrateful indeed had I forgotten the person who showed me two of the most difficult things on Earth: how, by means of an inner freedom, a man can free himself from the strongest power in this world, the power of money; and how a man can live among his fellow human beings without making a single enemy. I came to know this unique individual in a very simple way. One afternoon, in the little town where I then lived, I was taking my spaniel for a walk when the dog began to behave strangely. He rolled frenziedly on the ground, rubbed himself against every tree, whimpered and growled incessantly. While I was wondering what was the matter with him, I became aware that someone was walking by my…

You’ve heard of dad jokes. But what’s a mum joke? “That’s it. I’m selling my kid on eBay.” “Don’t be silly! You made him. Sell him on Etsy.” It’s spicy: universal mum code for “I don’t want to share.” When does a joke become a mum joke? When it becomes apparent. Good mums let you lick the beaters after making a cake, great mums turn them off first. Mum, can you put my shoes on? No, I don’t think they’ll fit me. SOURCES: THEPIONEERWOMAN.COM; COUNTRYLIVING.COM…

“Now I cannot overstress the importance of order here!” Small Token Of Appreciation Just got a package. My husband, a freelancer, sent himself a box of fresh pears with an encouraging note for the festive season. @PUBLICROAD Eyes Of The Beholder Three Figures, an avant-garde painting from the 1930s by Anna Leporskaya, was on display in Yeltsin Centre in Yekaterinburg, Russia, in early 2022. The painting features three abstract, eyeless blank faces. A bored security guard employed by a private security firm decided he knew how best to bide his time while on patrol. Using a ballpoint pen, he drew eyes on two of the figures. It was his first – and last – day on the job. NEW YORK POST Flip-Flop I was in a computer repair shop to…

Imagine finding out that chocolate cake is the ideal health food. OK, that’s not true. But it is true that something you might only associate with holidays, leisure time and sheer fun is one of the best exercises around. We’re talking about swimming and other aquatic exercises. Working out while submerged in water, all or partially, has multiple benefits for the mind and the body and can be done by almost anyone of any age at any fitness level. A 30-year observational study at the University of South Carolina found that swimmers had about half the risk of death from any cause over the course of the study compared to participants who were runners, walkers or sedentary. Swimming is universally popular. And you don’t have to do butterfly, breast stroke,…

1. The audience at a pop concert in Seattle in 2023 caused seismic activity equivalent to a 2.3-magnitude earthquake. Who were they watching? 1 point 2. In 1938, Hungarian-Argentine journalist László Bíró patented the first commercially successful version of what invention? 1 point 3. What was the name of the first book in the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling? 1 point 4. Which of these vocal ranges can sing the lowest notes? Soprano, tenor, baritone or contralto? 1 point 5. What is the full name of the medical scanning technique called PET? 3 points 6. Designated a weed, what plant is actually bursting with vitamins A, B, C and D and is used to make tea, wine and coffee? 1 point 7. What is the largest nonpolar desert…

We commissioned independent market research agency Catalyst Consultancy & Research to survey a representative sample of 2500 Australians. To build a brand list reflective of today’s market, an initial survey was conducted with a representative sample of 500 Australians who were asked which companies they have had recent experience with across 52 categories. In the second survey, completed by over 2000 Australians, data was captured on which of those companies across the 52 categories had provided the highest levels of customer service over the past 12 months, rating each organisation from one to ten across five key pillars of customer service: ▪ PERSONALISATION: How well was the company able to provide the consumer with an individualised customer experience? ▪ UNDERSTANDING: How effectively was the company able to demonstrate a genuine insight…

LIFE IS A JOURNEY filled with special moments shared with loved ones. With some planning ahead, you can help your final wishes be honoured by financially supporting your loved ones. This thoughtful preparation can relieve them of any additional financial stress, so they can focus on celebrating your memory rather than how they will pay for your funeral. The Gold Quality Service Award winner – Real Insurance – has helped thousands of Australians have peace of mind that their loved ones’ lives will be made easier at an already difficult time with their value-for-money funeral insurance product and quality service. Their goal since launching into the Australian market in 2005 was to make insurance simple and straight forward to understand so all Australians can help protect the financial future of the…

AT SPECSAVERS AUDIOLOGY, the mission is clear: to change customers’ lives for the better. This commitment is realised by offering affordable hearing care tailored to individual needs. Central to their approach is a dedication to exceptional clinical care and a product range that delivers remarkable value. By integrating hearing screenings into the pre-test journey for optometry, Specsavers is making significant strides in raising awareness about hearing health. This initiative ensures that Australians have convenient access to hearing care at an earlier stage. “Identifying hearing loss early can lead to a substantial increase in the number of people who take action, ultimately reducing feelings of isolation, stigma and the mental health challenges associated with undiagnosed hearing loss,” explains Nick Taylor, Chief Audiologist at Specsavers. Specsavers offers customers a free 15-minute Hearing…

UNITING HOME AND COMMUNITY CARE Uniting is one of the largest and most trusted not-for-profit aged care providers in NSW and the ACT, with a long history of supporting seniors to stay safe and independent in their own homes and communities. Uniting’s Home and Community Care team is committed to helping people continue to live life in the ways they choose, with high-quality services tailored to each client’s unique needs, circumstances and budget. Building a close home care relationship means that Uniting can proactively support clients through their changing needs as they grow older, giving them continuity of care and peace of mind. Uniting is really focused on getting to know you – it is the foundation for truly personalised care. Winning the Silver 2025 Quality Service Award in the…

MERCY HEALTH HOME CARE A LEGACY OF COMPASSION AND EXCELLENCE Since 2006, Mercy Health Home Care has been dedicated to providing high-quality, compassionate care to older people across Australia. Its purpose is clear: to support individuals in their homes, respect their life stories and choice to stay at home and help them live fully. Mercy Health Home Care’s success is driven by its robust customer service approach, centred on individualised care tailored to each client’s needs. A commitment to providing proactive service means client needs are anticipated and addressed promptly. The team works closely with clients and their families to identify potential challenges before they arise. “Mercy Health Home Care is committed to delivering personalised care that truly meets the unique needs of each client. Our approach ensures that our…

TYREPOWER’S VISION is to make every client feel special and valued, and this drives results through its retail members. Formed in 1977 by ten independent operators, today Tyrepower has stores right around the country. Tyrepower’s customer service strategy revolves around personalised care and exceptional expertise. Every member is empowered to meet customer needs dynamically, offering a range of quality products without being tied to one brand. This flexibility ensures that Tyrepower provides the safest, best value solutions. By actively increasing its service offerings, Tyrepower ensures that the high standard of care at one store is replicated across its national network, turning satisfied customers into loyal followers. Tyrepower has a positive workplace culture that attracts talent and positions as an employer of choice – both in the industry and broader community. Tyrepower…

DISCOVER THE PRINCESS CRUISES DIFFERENCE Embark on a journey with Princess Cruises, where exceptional customer service and unparalleled experiences await you both onboard and through its dedicated contact centre. From the moment you step aboard, you are enveloped in the luxurious ambiance that defines Princess Cruises. The cruise operator’s highly trained crew are committed to making your voyage extraordinary. Enjoy personalised service through the innovative MedallionClass® experience, whether it’s arranging a special dining experience, booking an exclusive shore excursion, or ensuring your stateroom is perfect. Princess’s awardwinning dining, worldclass entertainment, and immersive shore excursions are designed to create unforgettable memories. With 24/7 availability, its onboard team is always ready to assist, allowing you to relax and immerse yourself in the adventure. Planning your dream cruise is seamless with Princess’s comprehensive…

ESTABLISHED IN SOUTH AUSTRALIA in 2004, Harcourts’ entry into the local real estate scene was nothing short of dynamic. With roots dating back to 1888 in New Zealand and 1997 in Australia, Harcourts brought its rich legacy of trust, support and communication to South Australia, quickly claiming the number one spot in the state just over a decade later. This year, as Harcourts SA celebrates its 20-year anniversary, the prestigious Reader’s Digest Quality Service Awards 2025 Gold award comes as a testament to the brand’s sustained commitment to service excellence. “With a legacy of excellence, personalised service, and a deep commitment to client success, Harcourts SA is poised to continue leading the way in helping homebuyers and property sellers achieve their dreams,” remarked Adrian Knowles, CEO Harcourts Australia, on the achievement.…

AVALON WATERWAYS HAS BEEN providing luxury river cruises for over 20 years. Guests on Avalon Waterways’ award-winning Suite ShipsSM are given the widest views, tastiest meals and best experiences on rivers throughout Europe. Their specially designed Panorama SuitesSM trade the traditional balconies for additional room space. With wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling windows, the outdoors is brought in, giving guests enchanting and uninterrupted views. Imagine waking up to a new medieval castle, historic village or hillside vineyard every morning. Avalon Waterways’ commitment to quality continues when guests leave the ship. Working with experienced local guides, the river cruise company provides a range of included excursions that feature Active, Discovery and Classic options. Instead of taking the usual guided city tour, you can learn to paint like Van Gogh, attend a medieval joust, or…

We asked you to think up a funny caption for this photo. Yes, I am the cat that was let out of the bag. WENDY ZHAO Where’s the catnip? MONICA ZACHULSKI It’s my party and I’m having a fur ball. DI BATES This is a Catastrophe! JAN SUTHERLAND GLYNN HILLS Congratulations to this issue’s winner, Wendy Zhao. CAPTION CONTEST Come up with the funniest caption for the above photo and you could win $100. To enter, email editor@readersdigest.com.au or see details on page 8.…

People often make the mistake of thinking our feline friends are nocturnal by nature… Cats are actually crepuscular creatures. This means they are most active during dusk and dawn. But why are cats wide awake at these times? It is in their genes. Your furry friend curled up on the couch still shares instincts with their wild cat ancestors. Dusk and dawn are the ideal hunting hours: they are less likely to be seen and their eye structure excels in low light. All the more reason to curfew your kitty and make sure they are safely inside with you during these hours. Their crepuscular behaviour explains why for cats 5am seems like the purrfect time to zoom around the house or demand breakfast - even if we’d rather stay in bed! If…

It has been four years since Tina Jones, an owner of a New Zealand interior-design business, launched a plan to incentivise others to join her in supporting good causes. She gets a buzz out of volunteering because it not only helps those on the receiving end, it makes her happy. So happy, she is opening up volunteering possibilities to others, too. Tina corralled about 40 women in her neighbourhood to join a Facebook Messenger group she established; its sole aim to help others. When Tina identifies a need, she sends out a message. Her home then becomes a drop off point for Foodbank essentials, items for the homeless, tangibles needed by the Women’s Refuge. “Essentially, I am saying ‘Hey, this is happening. If you have capacity, jump on board.’ And…

“I never get what I want, so just give me a refund.” Counting Down In his handmade birthday card for his grandmother, our ten-year-old grandson wrote: “I know birthdays get worse as you get older. But on the bright side, not many left now!” SUBMITTED BY LARRY HENTGES Time For Walkies The afternoon retirement party, at which I’d had a few drinks, had gone on longer than I had expected, so I was running late getting home from work. I still had to walk the dog, and I knew he would be waiting impatiently. I let myself in through the back door, slipped Ralph’s leash off its hook, grabbed the poop bags and headed out for our walk. I returned home from the stroll with a much clearer head, only…

Freedom to explore Once grown-up children leave home, many ‘empty nesters’ are eager to redefine their lives with travel a top priority. Seeking to reconnect with their partners and embrace selfdiscovery, and able to travel offseason, empty nesters are heading to destinations that offer authentic experiences. With its interesting culture and history, pristine beaches, and some of the best food in the world, Vietnam is proving a popular and affordable destination. For example, five-star rooms in the country’s capital of Hanoi, famous for its lakes and blend of French and Vietnamese architecture, start at about A$120 a night. On the other side of the coin, there is an abundance of homestays and guesthouses for far less. The Vietnamese are renowned for their hospitality and travellers can easily immerse themselves in…

Wearing all black and sitting on a tufted white ottoman in her sparse and sunlit living room, Sarah Robichaud is teaching a modern ballet-inspired routine to a group of 80 students on Zoom. The Bolshoi-trained dancer spreads her arms wide in exaggerated movements to a slow cover version of the Proclaimers’ ‘I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)’ as her students replicate the routine. “We’re just going to start with a gentle sway, back and forth,” she tells them. “I want you to imagine that there’s a thread attached to your wrist and someone’s pulling that thread from side to side.” Many of Robichaud’s students are seated, as well. More than half of them have Parkinson’s disease and typically move with difficulty, but when they try to mirror her fluid and graceful…

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Last year, Tanja and Wolfgang Moller fulfilled a long-cherished wish: to spend three months touring Europe in their camper van. “It was fantastic, we experienced so much,” says Tanja. They had no problems paying for anything. Tanja carried a debit card and Wolfgang had a credit card, and both always had some cash in their wallets. “We usually paid for fuel, larger purchases and campsites by card,” says Tanja. “We used small change for the coin-operated washing machine or for strolling through markets and flea markets.” Wolfgang also wanted to have another form of payment with him just in case a campsite operator wouldn’t accept credit cards or there were technology problems. This approach is exactly the correct strategy, says Michaela Roth from Germany’s Baden-Württemberg Savings Banks Association. “Don’t rely…

“Ours was in January last year because everyone assumed someone else was organising it.” SPACESHIPCOMMANDER/REDDIT “One coworker came to a Christmas party with a bag of Tupperware so she could pack up all the leftovers.” 981THEHAWK.COM “One guy fell asleep at the start of dinner, face first into his turkey and gravy.” ITS_ONLY_BETH “Last year my new staff member broke my other new staff member’s arm by challenging him to an arm wrestle.” BUZZFEED “We are playing mini-golf and going to a café for brunch. It’s going to be wild.” MOTH_XX “One coworker brought all of his relatives to the office party.” 981THEHAWK.COM…

If the sky is clear, it is possible to lean out of the windows of Paracelsus Recovery, a luxury rehabilitation clinic in Zurich, and gaze along the lake to the Alps in the distance. It is the kind of view, of blue water and white peaks, that promises immediate rejuvenation, a purity close to holiness. The clinic, meanwhile, offers more elaborate treatments at a cost of between 95,000 to 120,000 Swiss francs (A$150,000-200,000) a week for the typical six- to eightweek stay. I was not a typical arrival at Paracelsus. My backpack had old coffee stains and my puffer jacket had a hole in the back with feathers poking out. The staff here are used to people who do not carry their own luggage, and for whom a million in…

1. pedagogy – A: logical progression. B: education principles. C: controversial teaching. 2. tutelage – A: individual instruction. B: musical notation. C: full understanding. 3. didactic – A: related to Greek myth. B: morally instructive. C: imaginative. 4. elucidate – A: lecture incessantly. B: grade strictly. C: make clear. 5. pedantic – A: suddenly realising. B: concerning all students. C: overly formal. 6. polymath – A: one knowledgeable in many topics. B: scientific genius. C: enthusiastic teacher. 7. innumerate – A: ill-prepared. B: infinitely wise. C: mathematically challenged. 8. autodidact – A: one who dislikes learning. B: one who is self-taught. C: one who loves to read. 9. polytechnic – A: study of fireworks. B: many sided. C: related to applied arts and sciences. 10. edify – A: engage. B:…

SOUTHERN CROSS CARE (NSW & ACT) is a leading not-for-profit aged care provider that has been caring about people for over 50 years. Our guiding purpose is to enable older people to live life to the full. It’s a vital part of our aged care homes, retirement communities, and home care services across NSW and the ACT. Our highly trained, kind and compassionate team goes to great lengths to understand individual needs and preferences and explain the intricacies of joining a Retirement Village or accessing aged care. We can even provide guidance in applying for government-subsidised care funding. This warm and welcoming experience translates into our service delivery, placing our clients at the centre throughout their ageing journey. Denise, the primary carer of her 92-year-old mum, Violet, shares, “As a full-time…

SINCE LAUNCHING IN 1998, Australian Seniors has helped protect the financial future, valuable assets, and long-planned retirement of older Aussies from all walks of life. Meeting their vision of providing easy-to-understand insurance for the over 50s market, Australian Seniors’ high-quality products, awardwinning customer service team, and customer first approach, have been recognised by both their customers and the wider industry. Australian Seniors understands that customers expect a high level of service, which is why their dedicated sales, support and claims specialists are based in Australia, so customers can be confident they will always be able to speak with someone who can understand their needs. All new team members undergo a dedicated training programme and are supported so they are confident in delivering positive customer outcomes. By providing multiple channels for…

AUDIKA IS DEDICATED to its mission of helping more people hear better. As part of the Demant Group, a leader in hearing healthcare with over 110 years of experience, Audika provides high-quality, comprehensive care for adults experiencing hearing difficulties. Hearing care is not a one-size-fits-all solution, which is why Audika’s expert clinicians offer a personalised approach to support your unique needs. With over 300 clinics across Australia, Audika is equipped to address all types of hearing loss, from mild to severe, wherever you are on this scale. Audika’s commitment extends beyond fitting hearing aids or ear wax removal services. The brand offers free hearing checks*, and subsidised hearing services for eligible pensioners and veterans through the Australian Government Hearing Services Program1. It also provides referral pathways for those needing implantable hearing…

FOR MORE THAN 160 YEARS, AnglicareSA has supported South Australians in need. That tradition continues today with services including aged care and support delivered with compassion, respect and clinical excellence to older South Australians, enabling them to live with dignity and maintain independence. The key driver of AnglicareSA’s Home Care Services is quality, says AnglicareSA Head of Community Aged Care, Sam Laubsch. “Quality is the enabler of people being able to remain living in their own homes and connected to their communities,” she says. “AnglicareSA does this through providing expert nursing, allied health and care support when there is complex health or social needs as well as for people wanting to remain as healthy, fit and independent as possible. We work with the person to help maintain their home and ensure…

BAPTCARE CAN TRACE A HISTORY OF KINDNESS AND GENEROSITY, working for a future where every person is valued and respected. The Foundation of Baptcare started in 1945, when a group of Baptist women joined together to raise £4,000 in a time of war to open Australia’s first Baptist home for older people. “We have a rich heritage in supporting those with the greatest need and enabling people to live a fuller life,” says Gary Racine, General Manager – Aged Care. “Over the years, we have continued to learn and grow, ever conscious that we can always be better.” Baptcare’s services include community and home support, nursing and allied health services and centre-based care including day centres and respite care. Our principles unite and guide us every day to create a meaningful…

MULTI-AWARD-WINNING INTERNET SERVICE PROVIDER Aussie Broadband has been keeping Australians connected since 2008. Led by the ethos of doing things ‘The Actual Aussie Way’, Aussie Broadband’s values are tied to being good to people and going above and beyond for its customers. With 100% Australian-based customer service, Aussie Broadband empowers staff to fix issues with customers on the first call. “If a customer has an internet issue we will go above and beyond to resolve it and we do not just stop at internet,” says Nikki Kovacevic, General Manager Residential Customer Service. “We believe connectivity covers everything at the premises and will support with third party equipment where others won’t. We empower our staff to go the extra mile for every customer.” The telco focuses on high quality and great…

NAVIGATING LIFE WITHOUT GOOD GLASSES is a daily adventure of decoding street signs and mistaking strangers for old friends. That’s where Specsavers steps in. The optical retailer knows that quality glasses aren’t just a fashion statement; they’re a passport to a world where clarity reigns and mishaps take a backseat. Specsavers is committed to changing lives through better sight, that’s why it selects only the most qualified and experienced optometrists to join the business, and in-store team members who prioritise customer wellbeing and satisfaction above all else. Specsavers is committed to providing local, friendly service to every visitor to its stores and is constantly listening to customer feedback and evolving the customer experience to ensure it is not only efficient, but enjoyable and exceptional. Right from their first day on the…

DRAWING FROM OVER 16 YEARS of experience cruising the waterways of Europe and South East Asia, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours delivers exceptional all-inclusive ultra-luxury river cruises. The proudly Australian-founded company is dedicated to curating journeys designed for guests seeking immersive and enriching travel experiences and Nth Degree service. Scenic takes its guests to more than 60 countries with its broad portfolio of land journeys, river cruises and ocean voyages. It’s spacious 5-star ships are an ultraluxury haven on the water during truly all-inclusive cruises along spectacular rivers from Central Europe, France, Portugal and Vietnam. An unparalleled experience is at the heart of everything Scenic does. Guests can enjoy a truly personalised journey, setting their own pace and pursuing their passions from a wide selection of all-inclusive Scenic Freechoice activities and…

FORMED BY TEN INDEPENDENT RETAILERS IN 1977, today the Tyrepower Group is the largest independent tyre retailer in Australasia. Powered by retail members who retain control over their own business, Tyrepower stores offer customers flexibility, savings and value for money while providing first-class product knowledge and friendly customer service. Examples of Tyrepower’s great customer service are many, but one standout example of a Tyrepower store quickly resolving a customer’s unique tyre issue not only got a family on the road in time for their scheduled road trip, it lead to free promotion of the brand. “Impressed with the swift and effective service, the customer shared their experience in a detailed Facebook post, praising the staff’s expertise and empathy,” says Dale Klompmaker, General Manager Tyrepower Marketing (WA). “This post was widely shared…

THE ‘HUMAN TOUCH’: 72% of people prefer talking to a real person.1 43%of all consumers would pay more for greater convenience.2 42%for a friendly, welcoming experience.2 TOP CONCERNS CONSUMERS HAVE ABOUT AI: ▶ be more difficult reaching a person ▶ displace jobs ▶ provide wrong answers.4 Only a third of customers give direct feedback after a bad experience. But they may provide feedback less directly, such as call centre conversations, online chat, product reviews and on social media.3 WHAT’S DRIVING CONSUMER PURCHASES NOW?3 Product/service quality 61% Customer service support 47% Low price 43% Easy digital experience 30% Does good for society 18% Sources: 1. The State of Consumer Trends in 2024. Hubspot. https://blog.hubspot.com. 2. Experience is Everything. PWC Consumer Experience Series. www.pwc.com. 3. Consumer Experience Trends Report from Qualtrics. www.qualtrics.com.…