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Beijing’s Show of Force: China Launches Major Drills Around Taiwan

  A ship fires a weapon during drills east of Taiwan in this screenshot from a video released by the Eastern Theater Command of China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) on Dec. 29, 2025. China has initiated large‑scale military exercises around Taiwan, framing the operation as a direct warning to what it calls separatist forces and foreign supporters. The drills, conducted by the Eastern Theatre Command, involve naval vessels, fighter jets, and missile units operating across multiple zones encircling the island. According to Chinese military statements, the exercises are designed to test joint combat readiness and simulate scenarios such as blockades and precision strikes. The move follows heightened tensions over international engagement with Taiwan, including recent arms sales and diplomatic exchanges that Beijing views as challenges to its sovereignty claims. Taiwan’s defense ministry denounced the drills as coercive and destabilizing, placing its military on alert and trac...

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Travel Tips: 7 Tips for Overseas Flights


Travel Tips: 7 Tips for Overseas Flights



 Here are some tips for overseas flights that can help you prepare for your trip:

  1. Pack lightly. Overpacking can be a hassle when you’re traveling overseas. You don’t want to carry too much luggage around with you. Try to pack only what you need and leave the rest at home.

  2. Choose an aisle seat. On long flights, it’s recommended that you get up and walk to stretch your muscles and avoid blood clots in your legs. This is much easier to do in an aisle seat, so book one as soon as you book your ticket.

  3. Use travel apps. Apps can be a savior when traveling, but especially when you’re abroad. You can use travel apps to keep in touch with your airline, translate different languages, search for services at airports, choose your seats and myriad other tasks.

  4. Dress comfortably. On a long flight, you want to look well-dressed, but you also want to be comfortable. Wear clothes that are loose-fitting and comfortable.

  5. Arrive early. Most airlines want you at the airport at least two hours before your flight takes off, especially if you’re leaving from a U.S. international gateway airport. It will give you time to check your bags, check-in, navigate the airport security checkpoint and get to your gate in plenty of time and arrive stress-free.

  6. Zip through customs. Those who travel internationally know that U.S. Customs and Immigration lines can be a nightmare, especially at peak arrival times at the major international U.S. airports. Smart travelers carry the Global Entry card, which speeds you right past the Immigration and Customs lines.

  7. Lounge around. Because you need to be at the airport so far in advance, consider paying for access to an airline-branded or airport lounge.

I hope these tips help! Let me know if there’s anything else I can help with.


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