Isobel Yeung’s recent conversation with influencer Keith Sinclair in Kabul highlights a growing trend of social media personalities traveling to Afghanistan, despite the U.S. government’s stern warning against such visits. Four years after the Taliban regained power, this influx of influencers raises questions about safety and the implications of their presence in a country facing numerous challenges.
The U.S. State Department has consistently advised its citizens not to travel to Afghanistan, citing safety concerns and ongoing instability. Nevertheless, the allure of creating content in an area rich in history and culture seems to have drawn many influencers, including Sinclair. This increase in travel coincides with a broader trend where influencers seek out unique experiences for their followers, sometimes disregarding the potential dangers involved.
Hurricane Erin’s Impact on Coastal Safety
As influencers navigate the complexities of travel in Afghanistan, Hurricane Erin continues to move away from the United States, leaving a trail of concern along the East Coast. The powerful waves and dangerous rip currents, which are very serious hazards to beachgoers, were all a byproduct of the hurricane churning up the mighty Atlantic Ocean. Public safety officials are warning the public that, despite appearances, these currents are very powerful and can quickly put both swimmers and surfers in danger.
Though the hurricane may be weakening now, officials say, the ocean’s fury can continue even once a storm has passed. Lifeguards along affected coastlines are on high alert, advising the public to pay close attention to local warnings and advisories. As Long Island communities continue to rebuild after the storm’s destruction, beach safety will always be a top priority.
Growing Concerns Over Public Transport Etiquette
Against this backdrop of international travel, a countervailing cause is making strides in Ireland. The country’s rail operator, Iarnród Éireann, just laid out some jaw-droppingly ambitious new plans. They’ll be slapping €100 fines for all such breaches of proper public transport etiquette. These “transportation etiquette crimes” range from playing music aboard transit without using earbuds to vaping to putting bags or feet on seats.
Barry Kenny, a spokesperson for Iarnród Éireann, said that the incident was further evidence of changing social norms. He remarked, “Social norms appear to be clashing on the issue of audio playing out loud,” indicating that behaviors such as “bare beating”—the act of playing music or videos at high volumes on public transport—are becoming increasingly common and contentious.
Those 1984 by-laws are the basis of the fines. After a two-year pandemic-induced decline in public transport usage, federal regulators are again allowing jurisdictions to waive these requirements. The campaign’s goal is to create an environment of respect where all passengers can travel without discomfort or fear.
Legal Challenges for Airlines
We have enough problems in the world with societal etiquette. The airline industry just has a few of its own. In fact, proposed class actions against Delta and United Airlines are currently filling their trek through the courts, seeking millions of dollars in damages. These lawsuits stem from claims of mishandling passenger rights and services.
The burdens travelers experience at home and abroad over these turbulent times is overwhelming. Fears for personal safety visiting conflict zones, the change of availability of leisure activities after a natural disaster, the way people use social media to interact in public space are hot topics.
