BEIJING: Smoking-related diseases will claim 200 million lives in China this century and plunge tens of millions into poverty, a report said Friday.
China is the world’s largest consumer and producer of tobacco, and the industry provides the government with colossal sums.
In 2015, it recorded 1.1 trillion yuan ($160 billion) in profits, up 20 percent year-on-year.
But a report by the World Health Organization (WHO) and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) said Friday that the Asian giant will suffer an economic toll if it does not urgently reduce its smoking population.
The paper — called “The Bill China Cannot Afford” — estimated that the total annual economic cost of tobacco use in the country in 2014 was 350 billion yuan, up tenfold from 2000.
“If nothing is done to reduce [the death rate] and introduce more progressive policies, the consequences could be devastating not just for the health of people across the country, but also for China’s economy as a whole,” WHO China representative Bernhard Schwartlander said in a statement.
The calculation includes both the direct costs of treating tobacco-related illness and the indirect costs such as lost work productivity.
“The rapid increase in costs associated with tobacco use in China is unsustainable,” Schwartlander added.
Twenty-eight percent of all adults and 50 percent of men in China are estimated to smoke regularly.
Rural-to-urban migrants are more likely to be smokers, the report said, adding that they risk descending into poverty when smoking-related medical costs become too great — a reality at odds with the government goal of eradicating poverty nationwide by 2020.
The organizations recommended a smoke-free policy across the country akin to laws in Beijing and Shanghai, where smoking is banned in most public places.
However, enforcing anti-smoking measures can be difficult in China as the state-owned China National Tobacco Corp, which enjoys a near-monopoly, shares offices and senior officials with the national tobacco regulator.
The report also urged further raising tobacco taxes to make smoking less affordable. While retail tobacco prices increased following a taxation hike in 2015, the average price of a cigarette pack remains just ten yuan.
A 50 percent increase in the retail price of cigarettes would prevent 20 million premature deaths over 50 years, the report said.
Smoking to kill 200 million in China this century: WHO
Smoking to kill 200 million in China this century: WHO
Where We Are Going Today: OH Japanese Pancake
- The pancakes are cooked right before your eyes, adding a sense of excitement and anticipation to the dining experience
OH offers a unique twist on traditional Japanese pancakes by incorporating macarons into their dishes, making it a standout spot for dessert lovers.
Located in the bustling Hittin district of Riyadh, this cake shop specializes in Japanese mini pancakes, which are both delicious and visually appealing.
At OH, you can indulge in two delightful flavors: matcha and chocolate. Each mini pancake is priced at SR18 ($4.80), which feels a bit steep for the size, but the quality justifies the expense.
The pancakes are soft yet have a satisfying crunch, creating a delightful texture that is hard to resist.
A highlight of the experience is the specialty matcha macaron, which is filled with a crispy chocolate filling that resembles a sponge cake.
While the flavors are enjoyable, the limited menu may leave some diners wanting more variety. During my visit, I found the service to be quick and friendly, enhancing the overall experience.
The preparation process is an intriguing spectacle. Watching the staff skillfully place the pancake batter into a wooden mold, stuff it with a macaron, and then add another pancake layer is a treat in itself.
The pancakes are cooked right before your eyes, adding a sense of excitement and anticipation to the dining experience.
Despite the shop occasionally being crowded, the staff remains attentive and welcoming. However, I do wonder how often I would return if the menu remains unchanged. While the food is good, a broader selection could elevate the experience.
OH is a charming destination for those looking to try something different. The combination of crunchy and soft textures, along with the unique concept, makes it worth a visit.
Where We Are Going Today: ‘Attache’ in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter
- A must-try for the main course is the Japanese A5 wagyu sirloin, cooked to perfection with your choice of sauce. It pairs well with their signature hand-cut fries or mashed potato
If you are looking for a spot that blends culinary excellence with live music and an exceptional atmosphere, then look no further than Attache.
Situated in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter, the music venue and restaurant is a venture by MDLBeast, the music company, which turned an old equestrian club into a modern fine-dining experience.
The menu at Attache is diverse, featuring a fusion of Mediterranean, European, and Middle Eastern influences. This global approach to cuisine allows diners to explore a variety of flavors, from fresh seafood and grilled meats to inventive vegetarian dishes.
For starters, there is the Thai king prawn gyoza, pan fried with a coriander sauce, and the Swiss comte souffle. This is twice-baked with a comte cheese sauce topped with chives, which gives you satisfying flavors that are not too overwhelming.
For lighter options, opt for the Greek tuna ceviche with a soy marinade, served right at your table, or the English goat cheese salad, with refreshing apple crisp, pecans and rocket leaves, in a date-molasses vinaigrette.
A must-try for the main course is the Japanese A5 wagyu sirloin, cooked to perfection with your choice of sauce. It pairs well with their signature hand-cut fries or mashed potato.
For more complex flavors, the Moroccan lamb tagine is cooked with a Ras El-Hanout spice blend alongside smoked almonds, prunes, pomegranate, and orange-infused couscous.
Whether you are a vegetarian or not, the porcini and portobello mushroom pithivier is an excellent dish featuring a crispy puff pastry stuffed with porcini and spinach, served with a cream sauce.
For a perfect pairing of cocktails, we recommend the multinational, which harmoniously blends non-alcoholic tanqueray, pomegranate and passionfruit with the tartness of Japanese lime.
Also try the Attache royal for a sweet refreshing bubbly drink crafted with homemade non-alcoholic yuzu liqueur that has elderflower notes.
With the festive winter season, you will probably want to enjoy the weather with outdoor seating under the stars.
End the night with a sweet treat, whether it is the signature Saudi coffee tiramisu or a lighter Egyptian mango pavlova, while listening to trendy new mixes directly from their DJ.
Review: Jimam Spa in Riyadh
- The spa offers hand and feet services, from soothing pedicures to invigorating manicures, ensuring every aspect of your body is pampered
Located in the Jareed Hotel in Riyadh, Jimam Spa offers a luxurious experience that is perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.
The spa is designed as a tranquil sanctuary, blending modern aesthetics with traditional wellness practices, making it an ideal retreat for anyone looking to unwind.
Whether you want a rejuvenating facial or a detoxifying body wrap, the spa has something for everyone.
Jimam Spa features a variety of treatments tailored to individual needs, including an aromatherapy massage and deep tissue Swedish massage. These treatments may help relieve stress and ease muscle tension. Skilled therapists use high-quality oils and techniques for a soothing session.
The spa provides an array of face and body treatments as well. Each treatment is crafted to nourish the skin and improve its appearance, leaving guests feeling refreshed and revitalized.
For those seeking a more private experience, the spa offers exclusive packages. I had the pleasure of enjoying a private experience that included access to a hot tub. It was the perfect setting to relax while sipping their special tea. The massage that followed was incredibly soothing — a much-needed escape from the bustling life of Riyadh.
After the treatment, I was invited to a serene seating area where I enjoyed another calming cup of tea. This thoughtful touch made my experience truly exceptional.
The spa also offers hand and feet services, from soothing pedicures to invigorating manicures, ensuring every aspect of your body is pampered.
Jimam Spa, with its diverse offerings and award-winning service, stands out as a premier destination for wellness and rejuvenation. Whether you are a local or a visitor, a trip to this spa can be a transformative experience.
Where We Are Going Today: ‘Sign Burger’ – a homegrown eatery in Jeddah
- The simplicity of the menu makes it easy for customers to order without overthinking, though it may leave adventurous eaters wanting more variety
Jeddah’s bustling restaurant scene features Sign Burger, a homegrown eatery that takes its branding to the next level.
Located in Al-Mohammadiyyah and Al-Bawadi, Sign Burger’s vivid decor makes an instant impression. Neon pink dominates the interior, giving the place an edgy, Instagram-worthy vibe.
The bright, cheerful setup, combined with its minimalist menu, has quickly turned it into a popular spot, with customers queuing for their fix of burgers and fries.
The menu is as straightforward as it gets, offering just three meal options: Sign beef, Sign chicken and Sign spicy chicken, all priced at a very pocket-friendly SR24 ($7).
Each meal includes a burger, fries served in a cute pink box, and a drink. Its gathering box, which offers four or six burgers for group dining, is a thoughtful option on the menu.
The simplicity of the menu makes it easy for customers to order without overthinking, though it may leave adventurous eaters wanting more variety.
Taste-wise, the burgers are satisfying, especially for the price. The beef patty is well-seasoned, smashed to perfection, and complemented by the signature Sign sauce, a tangy mix reminiscent of Thousand Island dressing.
The chicken burgers, especially the spicy crispy variety, pack a flavorful punch with just the right amount of heat. The soft brioche buns elevate the experience, striking a balance between lightness and structure.
One downside is the sheer popularity of the place, long lines and crowded spaces are almost guaranteed, whether you are dining in or using the drive-thru.
For some, the wait might detract from the experience.
From the neon-lit interiors to the vibrant pink drink cups, Sign Burger has nailed the aesthetics game, and affordability with its reasonably priced burgers.
For more information check @signsa on Instagram.
Where We Are Going Today: ‘Jazean’ Saudi coffee at Diplomatic Quarter
- The signature Jazean latte, a smooth blend of coffee and steamed milk, pairs perfectly with their selection of freshly baked pastries and desserts.
Saudi Arabia has been booming with specialty coffee shops, but there is nothing quite like Jazean, which has become a beloved local gem.
With two locations in the heart of the Diplomatic Quarter, at 1364 Mall and the trendy tourist attraction Al-Bujairi, it brings a new style of Saudi coffee to locals and visitors alike.
Jazean’s offerings are rich in flavors and Saudi identity. The coffee beans are sourced from the mountains of the southern region of Saudi Arabia, nestled 1,000 meters above sea level, and blended with the best arabica from around the world.
Jazean’s menu stands out with its wide selection of specialty drinks, from rich espresso-based beverages to traditional Arabic options. The signature Jazean latte, a smooth blend of coffee and steamed milk, pairs perfectly with their selection of freshly baked pastries and desserts.
For those looking for something more adventurous, the turmeric latte and iced date coffee are both unique takes on classic flavors.
The raspberry cheesecake is a must — it is equally fluffy and sweet. The mango dessert and pecan cheesecake are also popular options for those with sweet cravings.
They also offer their own machine capsules and beans for easy brewing at home.
Jazean has a modern, warm ambiance, with a minimalist design that emphasizes comfort and relaxation. Natural light pours in through large windows, creating a pleasant and airy space perfect for both solo visits and casual meetings.
The DQ location features a breathtaking mural by the Saudi artist Noura Binsaidan, depicting an elderly farmer wearing the traditional flower crown, native and popular in the southern region. It is a nod to the generations of cultivating and harvesting in Jazan.
The service is exceptional, with friendly and knowledgeable baristas who are happy to share recommendations. While the prices are on the higher end, Jazean makes up for it in quality and atmosphere.
Whether you are a coffee connoisseur or just looking for a relaxing spot to unwind, the shop is a perfect blend of quality, inviting ambiance, and top-notch service.
It is a must-visit spot for coffee lovers in Riyadh, providing an unforgettable experience with every sip.
