The new 300-baht tourism tax is delayed to further boost tourism in Thailand

Marble bust bought for $6 and used as doorstop could sell for more than $3 million

A sculpture purchased for only £5 and used as a doorstop could soon be worth over £2.5 million after receiving approval for sale from a Scottish court. The “Bouchardon Bust,” created in the early 18th century by French sculptor Edmé Bouchardon, depicts politician John Gordon, a local figure in Invergordon’s history. The bust was acquired by Invergordon Town Council in 1930, intended for public display to honor Gordon as “the founder of Invergordon.” However, the sculpture was misplaced over the years and eventually found in 1998 being used to keep a shed door open in an industrial park. Recognizing its artistic and historical value, the Highland Council later loaned it to notable institutions, including the Louvre in Paris in 2016 and the Getty Museum in Los Angeles the following year.The Highland Council recently reported that an unidentified private overseas buyer contacted Sotheby’s with a substantial offer exceeding £2.5 million. The buyer proposed to fund a museum-quality replica of the bust for local display, allowing Invergordon residents to appreciate the piece’s historical significance. A public consultation earlier this year led the council to recommend the sale, and after approval from Tain Sheriff Court, the legal procedure known as the Waverley Criteria is likely to be enacted, assessing if the bust qualifies as a “national treasure” restricted from export. Although the auction details remain unconfirmed, the bust’s history and rediscovery echo other notable finds, such as a meteorite used as a doorstop at Central Michigan University, which sold in 2018 for $75,000.

Few have heard of this scenic train journey through Indonesia (and it's a bargain, too)

The Argo Wilis Panoramic train journey from Surabaya to Bandung offers a stunning view of Java's diverse landscape, from lush rice fields and dense forests to vibrant towns. This scenic route is one of Southeast Asia’s hidden gems, allowing passengers to experience Indonesia’s rich cultural tapestry from the comfort of a bright, spacious carriage.Running almost 1,064 kilometers, the train connects Java's major cities, with facilities that include reclinable seats, air conditioning, and onboard meals. At Rp 1,200,000 ($77) per panoramic ticket, passengers can enjoy exclusive amenities like executive lounges and complimentary Wi-Fi. Booking is straightforward, thanks to Indonesia's advanced mobile apps like Traveloka and Tiket.com.The Argo Wilis Panoramic carriage sits idle in Surabaya Gubeng Station. Josh EdwardsThe route includes stops at culturally rich cities such as Yogyakarta, home to arts and heritage sites like Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple, and Prambanan, Indonesia’s largest Hindu temple. Solo, known for its batik and antique markets, and Bandung, a city with Dutch colonial charm, add further depth to the journey.For travelers seeking to explore Java at a leisurely pace, the Argo Wilis Panoramic offers a unique way to appreciate Indonesia’s landscapes and culture. As one passenger aptly put it, “It’s criminal to take a flight and miss out on all of this.”

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