Daily Skimm Weekend: The talk of risky tourism is traveling around after the tragic story of the OceanGate submersible.

The Story

The talk of risky tourism is traveling around after the tragic story of the OceanGate submersible.

Extreme tourism? 

The adrenaline pumping, high-cost travel industry typically caters to the ultra-wealthy seeking a thrill. Think: space tourism with certain billionaires’ passion projects. Or, Earth-bound expeditions like hiking Mount Roraima near the Venezuelan border, helicopter rides to Mount Everest’s base camp, and luxury expeditions to the South Pole. Some of which could add up to hundreds of thousands of dollars — risks included. This comes as the extreme tourism industry is skyrocketing, according to researchers. So, it seems like many wealthy travelers want to take advantage of these once-in-a-lifetime opportunities. 

Why?

It could just be a new way to flaunt wealth — and the feeling of invincibility that comes along with it. Or perhaps, just simply, because of brain chemistry (no, seriously). Some people are wired to take risks, according to a professor at Texas A&M University who studies tourist behavior. Plus, the impact from the pandemic may cause some people to have a strong urge to find ways to live life to the fullest and scratch things off of their bucket lists sooner than later.

theSkimm

As new technologies bring more opportunities for people to go on risky adventures, those with the big bucks will likely keep the extreme tourism industry going strong.

📰 In news...

Yesterday, the Wagner mercenary group’s “armed rebellion” in Russia came to an end, in a deal that sends mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin to Belarus and drops the charges against him. In the US, Overstock stocked up on Bed Bath & Beyond’s assets. In happier news, The FDA ‘OK’d’ the first gene therapy for a rare form of muscular dystrophy in young kids. And today, major cities like Chicago, NYC, and SF are going all out for Pride.

🍃 In the environment...

Monarch butterflies are proving that size may matter — in wing spots. Beekeepers are feeling the sting of the latest honeybee hive death rate, while a toxic algae in Southern California is killing sea lions and dolphins. In happier news, the Biden Admin is looking to strengthen the Endangered Species Act. And Walt Disney World is celebrating the birth of two critically endangered cotton-top tamarin monkeys.

⚽️ In sports…

Qatar’s sovereign wealth fund may be joining the playing field in American pro sports. On the pitch, soccer stars Megan Rapinoe, Alex Morgan, Kelley O’Hara are among the 23 players that’ll rep the US at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. And rumor has it, Lionel Messi is kicking off his Inter Miami debut on July 21.

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Here’s a look at the reads we’ve saved, texted, and emailed to our friends…

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Is the Army’s New Tactical Bra Ready for Deployment?...on the front lines of the mission to equip female soldiers with the Army’s first combat-ready bra.

Here are today’s recs to help you live a smarter life…

1. Products to help if you’re going through menopause.

Our favorite products to keep you cool, comfortable, and moisturized when your body is going Through It.

2. The best wine subscriptions and accessories.

From a natural wine subscription to one that comes with its own cheese pairings — plus things like glass charms and cute stemware — here are our go-tos.

3. Sustainable jewelry pieces you’ll want to add to cart ASAP.

These picks, from dazzling pendants to rings, will make you feel good about blinging out.

Here’s one tip for a better start to your week. 

In many parts of the country, the time is now ripe for strawberries, raspberries, and more favorite fruits. Which means it’s the perfect time to whip up some homemade summer jam. Not only is it relatively easy to make, but it’s also a great way to preserve the taste of summer for months to come. Here’s how to have your own jam sesh: 

• Get creative. There’s nothing wrong with keeping it simple — and going straight strawberry, blueberry, or cherry. But to make the most of a fruit's flavor, consider adding some complementary ingredients. Like blackberries and thyme, peaches and rosemary, or raspberries and tarragon.

• Gather your supplies. In addition to your fruits, you’ll also need some granulated sugar, and lemon or lime juice. Plus, the right equipment. That includes a big bowl, a large pot (copper, stainless steel, or coated cast-iron will do the trick), a wooden spoon, a wide dinner spoon, and jars with tight lids.

• Jam out. Get rid of any stems, pits, or cores, then mash your fruit in a large bowl. Add your sugar, acid, and any additional ingredients and transfer it to your pot. Stir on a low heat until the sugar has dissolved, then bring it to a boil and stir often. Keep in mind: A foam will form on the top, so just Skimm, err skim, it off. After about 15 minutes, plop a spoonful of jam onto a cold plate, let it sit, and if it appears to gel, you’re good to go. 

• Store it and enjoy it. Scoop the jam into your glass jar(s), let it come to room temp,  then seal and pop in the fridge. It should last for at least a couple of weeks, so you’ll have plenty of time to try out some fun recipes and snack ideas.