Chris Infotainment

Matko Kmezic starts his day at 5 a.m. on weekends, preparing his Vietnamese coffee filter, cups, condensed milk, and ice before heading out on his tricycle to Oosterpark in Amsterdam. The 27-year-old sets up a small stall marked "Viet Drip Cafe" and offers a menu of traditional Vietnamese drinks, including iced milk coffee, bac xiu (southern white coffee), salted coffee, and egg coffee. As people gather, he carefully drips robusta coffee into the cups, adds milk, and serves it with a smile. Patrons sit on low plastic chairs around the cart, enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of the park. Some passersby are curious about why he is selling Vietnamese coffee when he isn’t Vietnamese. Kmezic laughs and responds, “Do you have to be Italian to make an espresso or cappuccino?” His answer reflects his deep appreciation for the culture he has embraced. Matko Kmezic (third from L) with customers at his coffee stall in Oosterpark in the Dutch capital Amsterdam, Nov. 2025. Photo courtes...

New Regulation on Alcohol Consumption in Thailand A new regulation that came into effect on November 8 has introduced stricter rules regarding the consumption of alcohol in restaurants across Thailand. According to the law, individuals found sitting and drinking alcohol outside of permitted hours—specifically from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to midnight—could face fines of up to 10,000 baht (approximately US$300). This measure aims to control public behavior and ensure that establishments adhere to specific guidelines. For example, if a customer is served a bottle of beer at 1:59 p.m. and continues to drink on the premises until 2:05 p.m., they would be considered in violation of the regulation. Such cases could result in penalties for both the customer and the establishment, depending on how the law is enforced. Public Reaction and Criticism The introduction of this rule has sparked significant backlash from both locals and international media. Reports indicate that many people ...

Choosing the Perfect Travel Mug for Your Journey For many, a travel mug is as essential as a ticket when heading out on a trip. Whether you're a coffee lover, tea enthusiast, or prefer hot chocolate, finding the right travel mug can make all the difference in keeping your drink warm and secure during long journeys. Travel mugs are tested for their ability to retain heat, spill resistance, and overall durability. They must withstand the rigors of daily use, from public transport to being tossed around in a bag. The ideal travel mug should not only keep your beverage at the right temperature but also be practical, stylish, and easy to carry. Key Factors to Consider When selecting a travel mug, several factors come into play. Some people may prioritize size and capacity, especially if they want to carry soup or other liquids. Others might focus on style, looking for a mug that adds a pop of color to their accessories. For commuters, budget-friendly options are often preferred, whi...

Asahi Group Resumes Operations After Cyberattack After a significant disruption caused by a cyberattack, Japanese beverage giant Asahi Group Holdings Ltd. has successfully resumed operations at all six of its domestic beer factories. The company’s officials confirmed this development on Monday, marking a critical step in the recovery process. The cyberattack, which occurred on September 29, had a major impact on the company's operations. It led to the temporary shutdown of production at many of its approximately 30 factories across Japan. In addition to halting production, the incident also delayed the release of several new products. The attack affected various aspects of the company’s operations, including customer service and order processing. Manual Order Processing Begins Despite the challenges posed by the cyberattack, Asahi Group has taken steps to ensure that its core business continues with minimal disruption. Since Thursday, the company has been able to ship its popul...