News: Many People Learning Chinese

14 Dec

40 million foreigners actually, if you believe a figure from the Confucius Institute. That means Chinese is the trendy language to learn. Apparently, it’s good on a resume, as well.

Next Tourist Destination: Chernobyl?

13 Dec

In April 1986, 32 people lost their lives in the worst nuclear disaster in history. In the coming months, Ukrainian officials will reopen the area for general tourism.

A limited number of visitors already travel to the site annually, but the government’s recommendations will make it easier for anyone to get access. Though radiation levels remain well above normal, Ukrainian officials claim that visitors will receive levels of radiation equivalent to a “trans-Atlantic flight.”

Scientists continue to monitor the area for elevated radiation levels, and will limit access to areas with low readings.

 

Who Might These Old Helmets Have Inspired?

13 Dec

Collector’s Weekly (via) has an intriguing theory. These masks were worn by firefighters in late 18th-century Europe when entering burning buildings. Do they remind you of anything? Some people are reminded of Darth Vadar and 3-CPO of Star Wars fame. Could George Lucas have found inspiration from them?

I Wonder What This Group of Four Men is About To Do

13 Dec

Oh, this:

This is Not How You Make Gnocchi

12 Dec

So this evening I’m making gnocchi with a beef ragu. By coincidence, I happened upon this video, which shows you exactly what not to do when making gnocchi.

I didn’t do that, don’t worry.

Note: Thanks to @branttom for pointing out the spelling error in my original title.