Travel

5 Australian girls win proper to sue Qatar Airways for forcing invasive bodily exams

Published

1 year ago

24/07/2025

5 Australian girls win proper to sue Qatar Airways for forcing invasive bodily exams

Brisbane, Australia
—

5 Australian girls have gained the correct to sue Qatar Airways for forcing them to bear invasive bodily examinations on a Doha airport tarmac in 2020 after a federal courtroom upheld their enchantment.

The ladies, whose identities stay confidential, had been amongst dozens of feminine passengers faraway from flights and subjected to bodily examinations, in keeping with their lawyer, after a new child was discovered deserted in Hamad Worldwide Airport.

On the time, the Qatari government said the measure was taken after a child woman was discovered wrapped in plastic and buried in trash in “a stunning and appalling try and kill her.”

It mentioned officers acted to forestall the “perpetrators” from leaving the nation and apologized for any misery induced to passengers.

The incident induced worldwide outrage and was condemned by Australia’s then overseas minister as a “grossly disturbing, offensive, regarding set of occasions.”

It’s nonetheless not clear what number of girls had been examined in complete – the 5 Australian girls had been amongst 13 examined from one Qatar Airways flight 908 certain for Sydney. On the time, an Australian authorities spokesman mentioned as many as 10 flights had been affected.

On Thursday, in a unanimous ruling, three Australian federal courtroom judges discovered that the unique choose erred in “summarily dismissing” the relevance of the Montreal Conference, a treaty that governs the legal responsibility of airways for worldwide air journey.

“Our purchasers are thrilled with the end result,” mentioned their lawyer, Damian Sturzaker from Marque Attorneys.

“They do genuinely proceed to bear the scars of not solely what occurred on that night, however the truth that there’s been no apology, that there’s been no compensation, and that the case has been fought over plenty of years by a collection of state entities,” he mentioned.

Article 17 of the Montreal Conference states {that a} service is answerable for damages for dying or accidents incurred by passengers on board an plane, or whereas embarking or disembarking.

The unique choose discovered that, on this case, it didn’t apply. Nonetheless, legal professionals for the ladies argue that the “journey had by no means ended.”

“(Our purchasers) had been taken off the aircraft at gunpoint to an ambulance that was beneath the wing of the aircraft, the place our group was subjected to invasive bodily examinations being put again on the aircraft,” mentioned Sturzaker.

“So, in fact, the journey had by no means ended, they usually had been nonetheless embarking and disembarking.”

He mentioned his purchasers are additionally pursuing a negligence declare in opposition to Qatar Airways that would enhance any potential damages payout. CNN has reached out to Qatar Airways.

The ladies had additionally sought to carry prices of negligence, assault, false imprisonment and battery in opposition to MATAR, the airport operator, and the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority (QCAA).

Thursday’s ruling put an finish to their motion in opposition to QCAA however allowed them to regulate elements of their case in opposition to MATAR. Sturzaker mentioned causes for the QCAA determination might be examined to see if there’s scope to hunt go away to enchantment in Australia’s Excessive Courtroom.

CNN has reached out to legal professionals appearing for QCAA and MATAR.

Sturzaker mentioned it’s nonetheless unclear who ordered the searches, and that might be among the many data legal professionals might be searching for as they construct their case.

“We don’t have good perception as to the degrees of accountability, and that’s one of many issues that we are going to search to find out because the case goes ahead, as a result of lots of the paperwork that we sought weren’t supplied,” mentioned Sturzaker.

“We anticipate that there might be additional proof that strengthens the group’s case in opposition to Qatar Airways and MATAR,” he added.

Following the incident, a Qatari prosecutor said an unspecified variety of airport security staff answerable for finishing up examinations of feminine passengers had been charged.

In the identical assertion, prosecutors mentioned they’d identified and charged the baby’s mother with tried homicide. She had left the nation and was described solely as of “Asian” nationality.

In Qatar, intercourse outdoors of marriage stays a legal act. It’s not unusual for ladies to desert kids to keep away from imprisonment.

Sturzaker described the Qatari response to discovering an deserted child as “wildly out of proportion.”

“It’s not one thing that you’d ever see in an airport that you’d generally wish to journey to,” he mentioned.

The case is anticipated to go to trial subsequent 12 months.

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Isabel Rosas

Travel

British Museum to focus on Hawaiian tradition in new exhibition

Published

11 months ago

04/10/2025

Isabel Rosas

British Museum to focus on Hawaiian tradition in new exhibition

Portaits of Hawaiian King Liholihoand Queen Kamāmalu, created in 1824

Trustees of the British Museum Sketches of a young Hawaiian man and women in fine 19th century clothing. On the left is the king wearing a dark grey military style jacket. He has short wavy hair and is posing, looking slightly upwards. The Queen is wearing a white plumed headdress and a square-necked white dress with fine ruffled neckline, puffed sleeved and the dress gathers in at the waistband and flares out in pleats. Her hair is gathered and you can only see some of her curled hair around her forehead and she wears earrings. — Portaits of Hawaiian King Liholihoand Queen Kamāmalu, created in 1824

The primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.

Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.

The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.

This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.

This feathered cloak was despatched from Hawaii to King George III in 1810

Royal Collection Enterprises Ltd A 19th century yellow and red cloak made from feathers. It has an simple diamond shaped pattern and a yellow border. The feathers have fallen away in parts of the cloak. — This feathered cloak was despatched from Hawaii to King George III in 1810

The exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.

Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.

Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.

This 9ft (2.7m) statue of a Hawaiian god will probably be positioned within the Nice Courtroom

Trustees of the British Museum A wooden sculpture of a human-like figure wearing a large helmet that covers the face and extends at the back to the floor. Is it wearing a white loin cloth. — This 9ft (2.7m) statue of a Hawaiian god will probably be positioned within the Nice Courtroom

Guests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.

A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.

The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.

Umeke ki’i (bowl with determine) is among the many reveals on show

Trustees of the British Museum Two carved wooden bowls linked by a carved wooden human figure. — Umeke ki’i (bowl with determine) is among the many reveals on show

The creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.

Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.

She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.

“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”

The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.

Travel

20 Greatest-Preserved Medieval Cities in France You Ought to See!

Published

11 months ago

04/10/2025

Isabel Rosas

20 Greatest-Preserved Medieval Cities in France You Ought to See!

France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.

From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.

These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.

On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.

20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to

Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!

1. Riquewihr, Alsace

Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.

Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.

Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.

Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.

2. Eguisheim, Alsace

Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.

The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.

Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.

The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.

3. Rocamadour, Occitanie

One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.

The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.

4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne

Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.

Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.

Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.

5. Dinan, Brittany

Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.

Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.

The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.

6. Honfleur, Normandy

Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.

Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.

Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.

7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.

Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.

8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie

Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.

Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.

9. Gordes, Provence

Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.

Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.

Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.

10. Locronan, Brittany

Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..

Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.

Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.

11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie

Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.

Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.

12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy

Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.

This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.

Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.

Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.

13. Minerve, Occitanie

Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.

Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.

14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..

Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.

15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.

The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.

Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.

16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie

Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.

Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.

Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.

17. Conques, Occitanie

Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.

Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.

Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.

18. Najac, Occitanie

Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.

Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.

Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.

19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté

Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.

This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.

Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.

20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.

Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.

Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities

Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.

Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.

From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.

Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.