IN BRIEF (Page 12)

'Small' Langham plans to be a big player in luxury market

In an industry where acquisitions and mergers are happening more frequently than ever, with the approach being adopted by some of the biggest players, Langham Hospitality Group, with a history dating back to 1865, believes in the power of being small.

Roundup

Appointment

Chinese tourists' appetite for long-haul trips stays strong

A growing number of Chinese outbound tourists are seeking farther destinations and travel longer to gain diverse experiences, according to an overseas travel report.

Jerusalem tensions spark UN concern

UNITED NATIONS - Recent developments in East Jerusalem dominated the monthly UN Security Council session on the Middle East on Tuesday, with members voicing concern over the risk of more violence.

After IS, Mosul rebuilds mosques and monuments

MOSUL, Iraq - Faisal Jeber arrested and interrogated suspected Islamic State militants during the battle for Mosul. Now he is taking up a new fight that could be just as crucial to the city's future.

Dog's chance for subway strays

MEXICO CITY, Mexico - They found Jamai wandering on the tracks of the Mexico City subway, his ear nearly torn off and a terrified look in his eyes.

Rabbits hitch a ride to escape New Zealand floodwater

WELLINGTON, New Zealand - Three wild rabbits managed to escape rising floodwaters in New Zealand by clambering aboard a flock of sheep and surfing to safety on their woolly backs.

Sailor home with solo record

SYDNEY, Australia - An Australian sailor returned to her home in Queensland on Tuesday evening after becoming the first woman in history to circumnavigate Antarctica solo.

US House backs Russia sanctions

WASHINGTON - The US House of Representatives voted overwhelmingly on Tuesday to slap new sanctions on Russia and force President Donald Trump to obtain lawmakers' permission before easing any sanctions on Moscow, in a rare rebuke of the Republican president.

Fires force 10,000 to flee in France

MARSEILLE, France - At least 10,000 people, including thousands of holidaymakers, were evacuated overnight after a new wildfire broke out in southern France, which was already battling massive blazes, authorities said on Wednesday.

'Decisive week' for Venezuelan elections

CARACAS, Venezuela - President Nicolas Maduro said on Tuesday that his country is in a "decisive week" for peace, ahead of elections for a National Constituent Assembly, or ANC, on Sunday.