ONE part of the travel industry that has been making waves recently is luxury cruising.
It has never been so popular, and bearing in mind the astonishing growth in numbers of both passengers and new ships, there are no signs of the sector slowing down.
Leisure cruising was worth $23.3 billion (£17.5bn) worldwide in 2007 and $35.5bn (£26.7bn) in 2016. It is expected to rise to $57bn (£43bn) by 2027 – in other words, the industry has more than doubled in size over the past two decades.
In fact, the three decades between 1990 and (projected) 2020 have seen annual passenger growth of over 6.5 per cent. In the past few years alone, the global demand for cruises has risen by 45 per cent, from 17.8 million passengers in 2009 to 25.8 million last year. That sort of growth almost rivals the spread of the internet.
Altogether in 2017, almost two million Britons went on cruises worldwide. A quarter of a million of them boarded in the UK before setting out for foreign destinations. Most passengers depart from Southampton, and an increasing proportion of them are British Asians.
For many years, cruising carried the rather staid image of “black-tie at the captain’s table”. There would be deckchairs during the day and a dance in the evening – a genteel experience that few would imagine trying out until in receipt of a pension. So it would be easy, but entirely wrong, to believe that the massive increase in the popularity of cruising is due to an ageing population.
However, it is not only retirees who are taking to the high seas, but toddlers too.
“The demographics of the whole industry have completely changed over the past 10-15 years,” says travel agent and cruise specialist Farley Shelkin.
“They are building a lot of bigger, better new ships, and are bringing in a new generation of families because of the facilities on board.”
The days of seasickness and quoits games are long gone, too. “A lot of these ships carry 5,000 passengers, on top of the crew, which is another 2,500-3,000,” says specialist Inder Singh of flightsandpackages.com. “The Royal Caribbean’s latest ship carries 5,000 people. They are 16, 18 storeys high … You can’t feel the ship move, especially if you are amid-ships, you wouldn’t even know. Imagine a 15-storey office building.”
The latest liners boast all luxury cabins, full-size theatres with West End shows, infinity pools, spas, dozens of restaurants and bars, and even – in the case of Norwegian Cruise Lines’ Bliss, a go-kart track on the top deck with speeds of 30 miles an hour. “Put your helmet on and you’re racing in the middle of the ocean,” says Singh.
The age profile of passengers is breaking downwards fast, and the cruise companies can see their future lies in attracting whole families to these floating pleasure cities.
“Different cruise lines have a different age group, but the average in the industry is now down to about 55, 54,” says Singh. “The bigger cruise ships have the younger profile.”
That means the facilities for junior citizens are myriad: “From rock-climbing to bumper cars.”
“There’s still an old-school market,” for senior adventurers, says Shelkin. “Cruise-lines such as P&O and Cunard and one or two others still have black-tie dinners. But that’s different to the family market. The two things are very different.”
To meet demand, more and more super-luxury liners are being commissioned. Global tonnage is expected to rise by a third over the next decade, with 27 new ships being launched this year. The whole cruising experience is becoming more tailored and convenient. More than 450,000 people every year sail around the Mediterranean on what are known as ‘fly-cruises’, where customers fly to an embarkation port before sailing home via a selection of destinations.
“On a seven-day cruise, you can almost see seven different islands, seven different destinations in a week,” says Singh. “That’s catching a lot of young families who love exploring.”
“It’s a huge growth sector,” adds Shelkin. “Those people who maybe normally would have done an all-inclusive hotel in the Med in the summer, let’s say, whether it’s Turkey or Greece or Spain … those families are now being attracted by the cruise ships because they are finding it slightly more exciting, I guess, than sitting around a swimming pool or a beach for two weeks, nice as that is.”
It is also telling that after 20 years of being disrupted by the internet and online booking, travel agents are seeing cruising customers return to them because of personal service and expertise.
“They want to talk to somebody who is knowledgeable,” Shelkin affirms. “Most people who book a cruise will go to a travel agent as opposed to doing it themselves online, whereas the opposite is true with ‘bucket and spade’ holidays where people can just book a flight.”
As well as the passenger demographic, the cultural profile is also shifting.
“There’s more and more Asians and Indians coming along,” says Singh. “More Indians are taking holidays. With the new age group and second generations and so on, there’s definitely a lot more Asian cruisers out there.”
One was Mandavi Kaushik, an Indian fashion and lifestyle blogger in London who authors TheRedNoteBookBlog.com. “We booked the holiday through an agent,” she says. He expertly co-ordinated her large group: “About nine of us, a big family holiday. I live here in London, but my family is based in India. My sister came from the US and we all met at the point of departure – Venice. Different age groups, parents 60-plus, us mid 30s, then kids – two, five, eight-year-olds, a teenager.”
In times past, vegetarians and others with dietary requirements were hesitant regarding cruises, afraid they might not be catered for. That’s all changed, too.
“They are definitely catering to Indian vegetarians, especially if there’s a group,” says Singh. “You can have your own Indian menu if you want.
“Certain ships have Indian restaurants on them now, as well. One of the big P&O ships has a dedicated Indian restaurant with a famous chef.”
“We have a lot of Jewish clients,” adds Shelkin. “Some of them will want kosher food … and the ship will bring on kosher food if we order it. It’s the same with the Asian market – vegetarian, halal or anything. As long as we tell them in advance what they want, it’s absolutely not an issue.”
“If you’re from India you don’t miss your food,” Kaushik reveals. “They had these special nights, an Asian night. There were Indian staff on board, so spoke Hindi, which was nice.”
The experience of cruising is addictive. “We’ve had a lot of families who will now do it year after year because they’ve got hooked on it,” says Shelkin.
Kaushik agrees: “I would love to do it again. It’s good if you want a holiday with your family; you know the next destination, so you don’t have to plan everything. The ship docks in the morning and you have five or six hours to explore a city.”
The environment of a large liner seems perfect for reformed landlubbers.
“I thought I would be seasick, I had never been on a cruise or anything, but the ship was so big you don’t really feel anything,” says Kaushik.
And a big ship suits children as well. “The teenagers were moving around in their own groups enjoying their freedom, and the parents could relax because the kids can’t go anywhere else – they can only stay on the ship,” she says.
“These are valuable holidays,” says Singh, but at first glance they might not appear cheap. And although there can be extras to pay for, access to most facilities is typically bundled into the price – all-drinks-included options, for example, with perhaps a premium for super-luxury restaurants. Figures from 2015 show that the average cruise passenger paid $2,123 (£1,595), including an on-board spend of around $423 (£318).
Cruising seems to be following the consumer pattern of spending less overall but more on quality purchases, as this rapidly expanding sector attests. It is adding more routes and destinations each year, along with more river cruising and expeditions to destinations like the Arctic.
A night owl, or an evening person with a late sleep-wake cycle, could be at a higher risk of cognitive decline with age compared to an early bird or a morning person, a study has found.
Chronotype refers to one’s sleep-wake type or times during the day when one naturally tends to be awake and asleep. A ‘night owl’ chronotype is said to have a later sleep-wake cycle, compared to an ‘early bird’ or a ‘lark’.
“Are you an early bird or a night owl? It’s hard to adjust what your biological clock – your so-called chronotype – is, but you can adjust your life to it as best you can,” study author Ana Wenzler, from the University Medical Center Groningen, the Netherlands, said.
Analysing the performance of about 23,800 participants on a cognitive test over a period of 10 years, the study found that ‘evening’ people decline cognitively faster than ‘morning’ people. The findings have been published in the Journal of Prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease.
“Unhealthy behaviour such as smoking, drinking and unhealthy eating happens more often in the evening,” Wenzler said.
“In our study, we also saw this: evening people smoke and drink more often and exercise less. Twenty-five per cent of the risk of cognitive decline can be explained from our research by smoking and poor sleep,” she said.
A greater decline was seen in higher-educated people – a delay of an hour in the sleep-wake cycle corresponded to a decline of 0.8 in cognition per decade. Wenzler said the decline might be related to their disturbed sleep rhythm.
“They are often people who have to go back to work early in the morning and are likely to sleep too short, giving their brains too little rest,” she said.
The author explained that people’s biological clock can change with age.
“Children are morning people. That changes when you reach puberty, when you become an evening person. Around your 20s, that gradually shifts back towards morning people for most people. By the age of 40, most people are morning people again,” Wenzler said.
However, this is certainly not the case for everyone, which is probably why evening people deviate from the norm, according to Wenzler, who recommended working against one’s body “as little as possible”.
“’You can try to go to sleep earlier, but if your body is not yet producing melatonin (sleep hormone), it will not work,” she said.
Wenzler added that if people are forced to work against their natural rhythm, their brains may not get enough rest, increasing the risk of unhealthy habits. “It would help if evening types were given the option to start work later,” she said.
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Father’s Day reflects a wide range of traditions shaped by history, culture and emotion
Father’s Day is often seen as a time for cards, tools or a family lunch, but across the globe, it carries a much deeper significance. Beyond the commercial promotions, Father’s Day reflects a wide range of traditions shaped by history, culture and emotion. While some mark the occasion with grand gestures, others focus on quiet reflection, respect and the bonds that define fatherhood.
Thailand’s day of respect
In Thailand, Father’s Day is celebrated on 5 December, the birthday of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej. The day is as much about honouring the nation’s former monarch as it is about celebrating fatherhood. Citizens wear yellow, the king’s birth colour, and present canna lilies to their fathers as a symbol of gratitude and respect. It’s a cultural blend of familial and national reverence.
Germany’s tradition of brotherhood
Germany takes a different approach. Known as Vatertag, or Father’s Day, it coincides with Ascension Day and is often marked by groups of men going on hiking trips, pulling wagons of food and drink. While it may appear more social than family-oriented, the tradition is rooted in camaraderie and shared responsibility among men and father figures.
Remembering fathers in Mexico
In Mexico and across parts of Latin America, Father’s Day is a time to honour both the living and the departed. Families often visit cemeteries to pay tribute to late fathers and gather to share stories and memories. It’s a day that highlights legacy over materialism, where the emotional role of a father is celebrated beyond life itself.
The expanding meaning in India
In India, Father’s Day doesn’t have deep historical roots, but its popularity is growing among urban families. Influenced by Western customs, it is increasingly used to recognise not only biological fathers, but also mentors, guardians and elders who provide support and guidance. The day is evolving into a broader celebration of male role models across generations.
A shared message worldwide
Though celebrated in different ways, Father’s Day across cultures shares a central idea: appreciation. Whether through a gift, a walk, a meal or a memory, the day is about acknowledging the role fathers and father figures play in shaping lives. In a time when traditional family structures are changing, this occasion also highlights that fatherhood is defined not just by biology, but by love, responsibility and care.
A thoughtful reminder
Rather than focus on finding the perfect present, Father’s Day offers an opportunity to be present. A simple message, a phone call or a shared moment can mean more than any physical gift. In a fast-moving world, slowing down to recognise those who’ve quietly supported us is perhaps the most meaningful tribute we can give.
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The alert is based on elevated geomagnetic activity levels
A rare display of the aurora borealis was expected over Hertfordshire after a red alert was issued on Friday, 13 June, by space weather experts. The phenomenon, also known as the Northern Lights, is expected to be seen across large parts of the UK if conditions remain clear.
Red alert signals strong aurora activity
AuroraWatch UK, a monitoring service run by Lancaster University’s Space and Planetary Physics group, issued a red alert on Friday morning. According to the service, this means: “It is likely that aurora will be visible by eye and camera from anywhere in the UK.”
— (@)
The alert is based on elevated geomagnetic activity levels, which are often triggered by solar storms interacting with Earth’s magnetic field.
Best time and places to watch
While the exact time of visibility has not been confirmed, previous sightings of the aurora borealis have typically occurred between 11 pm and the early hours of the morning. Experts recommend heading to dark, open spaces away from streetlights for the best chance of witnessing the lights.
What causes the aurora borealis?
The aurora borealis occurs when charged particles from the sun collide with gases in Earth’s atmosphere. Oxygen creates green light, while nitrogen can produce shades of purple, pink, or blue.
Skywatchers are advised to monitor AuroraWatch UK for real-time updates.
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Chef Sultan Al-Mahmood from the Grande Restaurant in London
It may be an essential life skill, but for many, cooking at home can feel intimidating – especially for beginners.
With the cost-of-living crisis, more people are choosing to prepare their own meals and experiment with dishes in their kitchens. Others, inspired by restaurant dishes, social media trends and the rise in home cooking during Covid-19, are now looking to improve their own culinary skills.
The master chef offers simple, easy tips for making tasty and healthy meals at homeInstagram/ thegrande_stratford
Eastern Eye joined this spicy trend by inviting acclaimed chef Sultan Al-Mahmood from the Grande Restaurant in London to share his expert cooking advice for all abilities.
With more than 30 years of experience – including cooking for celebrities, politicians and the Bangladesh national cricket team, as well as running multiple restaurants – the master chef offers simple, easy tips for making tasty and healthy meals at home.
Basics: Before diving into complex recipes, start by learning fundamental skills like chopping vegetables, boiling food such as pasta, and making simple dishes like omelettes. Also understand what different ingredients – especially spices – do. A solid foundation in the basics will set you up for success with more advanced cooking.
Recipes: One of the most common mistakes is not reading a recipe properly. Always read the full recipe before you begin to ensure you have all the ingredients and tools you need. Then follow the instructions carefully – including timings, portion sizes and temperatures.
Always prioritise safety in the kitchenInstagram/ thegrande_stratford
Plan and prepare: A little planning goes a long way. Have all ingredients ready before you start – this includes cutting, peeling and chopping anything in advance. It will make the cooking process smoother and less stressful.
Organisation: A calm, clean and organised kitchen is far more efficient than a cluttered one. Keep your essential tools within reach, and clean as you go. A tidy workspace not only makes cooking more enjoyable but also means less cleaning up afterwards.
Safety: Always prioritise safety in the kitchen. Use oven mitts for hot dishes, turn pot handles inward, store knives properly and take care when handling hot oil or boiling water. Be mindful of flames and keep children away from potential hazards.
Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients whenever possible. Fresh herbs, seasonal produce and good-quality protein-rich foods will elevate the flavour of your dishes and are usually healthier too.
Tools: A workman is only as good as his tools – and the same applies in the kitchen. Invest in good-quality knives, pots and pans. Many people continue using old or worn-out equipment, which can make cooking more difficult. Keep knives sharp for better and safer results.
Spices: Indian cuisine offers a wide variety of spices, yet many people use only a handful. Start learning about the different spices available and how they affect flavour. Gradually incorporate more into your cooking for better depth and variety.
Perfect pans: Avoid overcrowding the pan, as it can affect cooking time, temperature and taste. Always preheat your pan before adding ingredients – it helps prevent sticking and improves results. Heat: Understanding temperature is essential. Know the difference between low, medium and high heat, and learn how to control your oven or hob settings. Heat affects everything from texture to taste.
Avoid overcrowding the panInstagram/ thegrande_stratford
Embrace mistakes: Cooking is a lifelong learning process – even for professionals. Mistakes will happen. Use them as opportunities to improve your skills and confidence in the kitchen.
Get inspired: Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok and YouTube are full of expert guidance in all cuisines. Use them to expand your knowledge and techniques. Recipe websites and blogs are also helpful learning tools.
Cooking classes: Join a cooking class to learn from experts. The sessions provide hands-on experience, build confidence and are often fun, social environments. There are more classes available now than ever before, including many that are focused on Indian cuisine.
Learn from elders: If classes are not an option, learn from older family members. There is a reason so many people say their parents cook the tastiest food – they have experience and are usually happy to pass it on.
Storage: Proper storage extends the life of both raw ingredients and cooked food. Invest in airtight containers and learn what belongs in each compartment of the fridge or freezer. Good storage habits reduce waste and keep food fresh.
Taste: One of your best cooking tools is your own palate. Taste your food as you cook – it helps you adjust seasoning and prevents surprises when serving. Also get feedback from family and friends to help improve your dishes.
Experiment: Once you are comfortable with the basics, do not be afraid to experiment. Try new flavours, cuisines and techniques. Most importantly, enjoy the process. The more you cook, the more confident you will become.
We often talk about diabetes and menopause as two separate issues. But for many South Asian women in midlife, they collide quietly, invisibly, and with lasting impact.
As we mark Diabetes Awareness Week (10–16 June), it’s time to shine a light on this hidden overlap - and how it disproportionately affects women in our community.
At The Sattva Collective CIC, I work with South Asian women who are often battling low energy, mood changes, increased abdominal fat, and disrupted sleep. These aren’t just symptoms of a busy life - they’re red flags. Often, they’re signs of both perimenopause and early-stage Type 2 diabetes. And unless we start having this conversation more openly, too many women will fall through the cracks.
Why is this happening?
During menopause, oestrogen levels decline. This has a knock-on effect on metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and fat storage - all key players in diabetes risk. Meanwhile, cultural expectations of South Asian women - to keep giving, keep cooking, keep showing up - don’t leave much space for self-care or rest.
Add to this our traditional diets, which often lean heavily on carbs and fried foods, and it’s no surprise that South Asian women are particularly vulnerable.
But many don’t seek help until their health is seriously compromised. Why? Because in our culture, suffering quietly is often seen as strength.
We need to redefine what strength looks like.
True strength is recognising when your body is whispering for help - and responding before it starts screaming.
It’s choosing yourself, even when the world expects you to choose everyone else first.
It’s booking that health check. Asking the difficult questions. Saying no. Resting. Eating for nourishment, not just tradition. And surrounding yourself with women who are also reclaiming their health and their voice.
The South Asian Midlife Reality
Midlife for many of us is a crossroads. Culturally, we’ve been taught to keep going - no matter the cost. But the cost is becoming too high. Type 2 diabetes is preventable. And menopause is manageable. But only if we’re willing to challenge the silence and prioritise our wellbeing.
What you can do today
Don’t ignore symptoms. Tiredness, cravings, or foggy thinking could be more than hormones or stress.
Get screened. Especially if diabetes runs in your family or if you had gestational diabetes.
Eat mindfully. Incorporate fibre-rich vegetables, lentils, and whole grains while reducing sugary and processed foods.
Rebuild rituals. Turn meals, movement and rest into acts of self-respect, not duty.
Join a community. Being with others who understand your journey can be deeply healing.
As South Asian women, we deserve to thrive, not just survive. Let Diabetes Awareness Week be the turning point where we begin to see our health, our hormones, and our future through a lens of compassion and care.
(Kiran Singh is a lifestyle coach and menopause wellness coach. For more information about her work, you can visit kiransinghuk.com)