Author: admin

New “plastic deposit” from January 1: What consumers need to watch out for in the future

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Only a few days are left before the single-use deposit for drink packaging is introduced on 1 January 2025. But what will change for consumers at the beginning of January? How much deposit do they have to pay, and how do they get their money back? Which packaging will be subject to a deposit in future?As is already the case with reusable packaging, a deposit will also be introduced for disposable plastic or metal drinks packaging in January. Customers will have to pay 25 cents per PET bottle or can,…

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Flu epidemic has begun in Austria

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The flu epidemic has begun in Austria. The Center for Virology at the Medical University of Vienna (MedUni Vienna) has reported a significant increase in influenza viruses in clinical samples. Cases of real flu are rising throughout Europe; experts still advise vaccination. In the previous week, a more than four-fold increase in cases of real flu (influenza, note) was observed in clinical samples nationwide compared to calendar week 50, MedUni Vienna’s Center for Virology announced on Monday. The Austrian Health Insurance Fund (ÖGK) reported 905 sick days due to influenza.…

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Urbi et Orbi: Pope Francis gives Christmas blessing and calls for peace

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With a moving Christmas message and the traditional Christmas blessing “Urbi et Orbi,” Pope Francis called for global peace on Christmas Day. He expressed concern about numerous trouble spots, including Ukraine and the Middle East wars. 38,000 faithful at Christmas massAfter the Pope opened the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica on Tuesday evening, ushering in the Holy Year 2025, Francis read his traditional Christmas message on Wednesday. From the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, the head of around 1.4 billion Catholics blessed Urbi et Orbi (to the city of…

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8th place for Vienna: these are the best food travel destinations worldwide in 2025

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TasteAtlas has selected the 100 best food travel destinations in the world. From street food gems to culinary traditions, the ranking is a must for anyone who plans their vacation by taste. Vienna is among the top ten. With 8th place in the current ranking, Vienna proves why it deserves a top position worldwide regarding culinary delights. The Austrian capital leaves cities such as New York (12th place) and Madrid (11th place) in its wake. Whether it’s Wiener Schnitzel, Tafelspitz, Zwiebelrostbraten, or apple strudel, the variety and quality of the…

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Finally: a standardized charging plug is coming

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The USB-C charging plug will become the standard for smartphones, tablets, and other electrical devices throughout the EU. Which devices does the directive apply to?All new cell phones, tablets, and digital cameras should be able to be charged via the USB-C charging plug. This also applies to loudspeaker boxes, headphones, portable navigation systems, mice, and printers. Starting in spring 2026, all new laptops will have a standardized charging plug. Under the new directive, other conventional plugs, such as the older micro-USB connector and the Lightning connector for iPhones, will no…

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Garbage piles increase during the holidays

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Twinkling lights and festive feasting—but Christmas also has its dark side: an extra meal ends in the bin. And then there’s the gift wrapping. A fine festive roast, Christmas carp, vegetables, fruit—often carted from far away—tasty cheese, fine sausages, sophisticated desserts, and cookies: it’s time for a little more, they say during the holidays. Austria’s households produce 4.5 million tons of waste every year. Despite high prices, food accounts for 16 percent of residual waste. When we surprise our loved ones with a delicious meal, our eyes are often bigger…

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Francis gives Christmas blessing “Urbi et Orbi”

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Pope Francis will read out his traditional Christmas message on Wednesday (12:00 noon) after the Christmas Mass. From the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, the head of around 1.4 billion Catholics will give the blessing “Urbi et Orbi,” i.e. to the city and the world. In his address, the pontiff is expected to condemn the wars and conflicts in the world and recall the suffering of humanity.This year, Christmas will be marked by the wars in the Middle East and Ukraine. Tens of thousands of believers are expected to gather…

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What makes a Filipino Christmas unique?

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A Filipino Christmas is unique due to its deep-rooted traditions, vibrant festivities, and a strong sense of community and family. Here are some key aspects that make it distinct: 1. Longest Christmas Season in the World The Filipino Christmas season begins as early as September, known as the “Ber months,” and lasts until January’s Feast of the Santo Niño. Decorations, carols, and festive activities have occurred for nearly four months. 2. Simbang Gabi (Night Masses) A central tradition, Simbang Gabi consists of nine consecutive dawn masses leading up to Christmas.…

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Paskong Pinoy in an Austrian setting

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Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all of you! As we celebrate this joyous season, even though we are far from our beloved homeland, the spirit of Christmas remains alive in our hearts—love, generosity, and faith. Here in Austria, our Filipino traditions continue to shine brightly: the Simbang Gabi, Noche Buena, and the close-knit bond of our community. The warmth of our smiles and togetherness becomes a beacon of light in the cold European winter, bringing comfort and joy to us. Our resilience, cheerfulness, and compassion inspire our…

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