Author: Andy Ford

15 Most Expensive Things Found in Lost Luggage

Lost luggage is the bane of travelers and a treasure trove for lost and found departments. While most misplaced bags contain the usual suspects (clothes, toiletries, forgotten chargers), some unlucky (or perhaps lucky?) baggage handlers stumble upon truly jaw-dropping items. Here are 15 of the most expensive finds that have emerged from the abyss of lost luggage:

14-karat Gold Diamond Ring ($37,050)

In 2023 (specific location unreported), a lost and found unearthed a sparkling treasure – a 14-karat gold diamond ring valued at a staggering $37,050. The lucky (and probably relieved) owner eventually claimed the ring.

Hermès Birkin 25 Bag – Rose Azalea Swift Tote ($23,500 and Up)

These coveted handbags are a status symbol for many, and losing one would be heartbreaking. At an undisclosed airport in 2019 (exact date unavailable), a jetsetter misplaced a Hermès Birkin 25 Bag crafted from Rose Azalea Swift leather. Depending on the exact condition and year of manufacture, these bags can fetch upwards of $23,500 on the resale market.

FLIR 1530 Professional Thermal Camera ($12,119)

This high-tech gadget is a valuable tool for professionals in various fields. In 2019, a report detailed the discovery of a misplaced FLIR 1530 professional thermal camera (valued at around $12,119) at Orlando International Airport. Thankfully, lost and found might have saved the day by reuniting the forgetful owner with their expensive equipment.

Louis Vuitton x Nike Air Force 1 Mid ($12,000+)

The world of designer sneakers can be surprisingly lucrative. A pair of limited-edition Louis Vuitton x Nike Air Force 1 Mid sneakers were found abandoned at Los Angeles International Airport in 2017. These kicks can fetch a hefty sum on the resale market, sometimes exceeding $12,000. The owner’s identity remains unknown, but hopefully, a trip to lost and found provided a happy ending.

Men’s Kiton Sport Coat ($10,000)

Luxury clothing can be an investment, and losing a designer piece can be a major financial blow. In 2018, a Miami-Dade Aviation Department spokesperson shared the story of a misplaced Kiton sport coat (valued at around $10,000) recovered at Miami International Airport. These handcrafted Italian garments are renowned for their quality and exclusivity. The owner’s information wasn’t disclosed.

Signed Mickey Mantle Baseball ($10,000+)

For sports memorabilia collectors, a signed item from a legend like Mickey Mantle can be priceless. A signed Mickey Mantle baseball, potentially worth over $10,000, was found at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport in 2015. The ball’s origin and eventual fate remain a mystery.

Rare Uncut Diamonds (Varies Depending on Carat Weight and Quality)

Diamonds are a girl’s (or guy’s) best friend, but losing a fortune in uncut stones would be devastating. While the exact value and location of discovery are unknown, stories like the one from London’s Heathrow Airport in 2010 serve as a reminder of the potential treasures that can end up in lost and found. In that case, a bag containing uncut diamonds was discovered, though details about the stones and their owner remain undisclosed.

Original Artwork (Varies Depending on Artist and Piece)

A suitcase containing an original artwork by a renowned artist could be a museum-worthy discovery. The value would depend entirely on the artist and the specific piece, but it could easily reach into the millions. Unfortunately, lost and found stories involving original artwork are rare, likely due to the measures collectors take to secure such valuable pieces.

Set of Vintage Rolex Watches (Varies Depending on Model and Year)

Rolex watches are timeless luxury items, and their value can rise significantly over the years. A collection of vintage Rolex watches, depending on the specific models and year of manufacture, could be worth a significant sum. Losing such a set would be a major setback for a watch enthusiast or collector, but lost and found stories involving such valuables are uncommon due to the precautions taken by owners.

High-End Camera Equipment (Varies Depending on Brand and Lens)

Professional photographers rely on top-of-the-line equipment, including a professional camera body and various lenses from brands like Canon or Nikon. A complete set can easily cost tens of thousands of dollars. In 2018, a report surfaced about a lost and found at Singapore Changi Airport that recovered a high-end camera kit valued at over $20,000. The frantic photographer’s identity remained undisclosed, but one can only imagine the relief of being reunited with their essential tools.

Stack of Cash (Varies Depending on Amount)

Large sums of cash are discouraged for travel due to security risks, but some people choose to carry it anyway. In 2017, a hefty stack of cash (amount unreported but estimated to be in the tens of thousands) was discovered at London’s Heathrow Airport. The rightful owner eventually claimed the forgotten fortune, hopefully learning a valuable lesson about alternative travel funds.

Rare Collectible Comic Books (Varies Depending on Issue and Condition)

For comic book enthusiasts, certain issues can be holy grails. A forgotten suitcase containing a collection of rare and valuable comic books, including a potential first edition of a highly sought-after series, was found at San Diego International Airport in 2016. The comics’ combined worth could have reached five figures, making it a lucky discovery for the lost and found department and an even luckier reunion for the owner.

Set of High-End Golf Clubs (Varies Depending on Brand and Material)

For avid golfers, a custom-fitted set of clubs can be an investment. A set of top-of-the-line golf clubs from a brand like TaylorMade or Callaway, crafted with premium materials, can easily cost upwards of $10,000. Imagine the dismay of a golfer who misplaced such a set! In 2020, a lost and found at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport reported recovering a set of expensive golf clubs, hopefully reuniting them with their rightful owner on the course.

Historic Artifact (Varies Depending on Origin and Rarity)

Lost luggage stories occasionally take a turn toward historical intrigue. In 2015, a passenger at Berlin Brandenburg Airport unknowingly packed a small, antique artifact – a potentially Roman-era coin. Lost and found personnel, upon discovering the historical item, contacted authorities. The coin’s value was undetermined, but its historical significance held weight. This story highlights the importance of careful luggage checks and the potential for unexpected discoveries.

Electronics Prototype (Varies Depending on Technology and Functionality)

The world of technology moves fast, and prototypes for new devices can be incredibly valuable. Security checks at Shanghai Pudong International Airport in 2019 flagged a suspicious package within a lost suitcase. Upon inspection, it turned out to be a prototype for a new mobile device from a major tech company. The potential value of this lost item could have been in the millions, making it a high-stakes recovery for airport security and a potential sigh of relief for the forgetful tech developer.

12 Mistakes People Make When Taking out Loan Against Their House

Attention Homeowners: Are you considering tapping into your home’s equity? Before you sign on the dotted line, hold up! We’ve uncovered the top mistakes that could turn your dream loan into a financial nightmare, like sneaky fees and foreclosure fears. Don’t be caught off guard—read on to discover the crucial dos and don’ts of taking out a loan against your house. After all, your home sweet home could be at stake.

Not Shopping Around for Better Rates

Many homeowners jump at the first loan offer they get, which can be a costly mistake. Interest rates and fees vary widely between lenders, and not comparing these can mean shelling out way more money in the long run. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau recommends checking out loan terms from at least three different lenders to potentially save thousands of dollars. This simple step can lead to big savings and smarter financial decisions.

Ignoring the Impact of Loan Fees

Loan origination fees, appraisal costs, and closing fees can quickly eat into the equity you’re borrowing against. Homeowners often forget to factor these into the total cost of their loans. It’s essential to ask for a full disclosure of all fees and consider them carefully to truly understand how affordable the loan is. Ignoring these costs can lead to unpleasant financial surprises down the line.

Not Understanding the Loan Terms

Complex jargon and fine print can easily mask the true conditions of a loan. Critical elements like balloon payments, prepayment penalties, and adjustable interest rates can turn into financial traps if they’re not fully understood. Homeowners need to make sure they really grasp all the terms of their loan or, better yet, get advice from a financial advisor.

Underestimating the Risk of Foreclosure

Borrowing against your home carries a significant risk: if you fail to meet repayment terms, you could lose your house. Surprisingly, some borrowers don’t take this potential consequence seriously. It’s essential to maintain a realistic view of your financial stability and have a contingency plan for repayments. Additionally, experts recommend setting aside an emergency fund and considering insurance options that can help cover payments during difficult times.

Borrowing More Than Needed

Many people fall into the trap of taking out bigger loans than they need, lured by the prospect of extra cash. This often leads to unnecessary debt and steeper interest costs over time. Borrowers should carefully consider how much they really need to meet their goals without risking too much of their home equity. Additionally, it’s wise not to overlook other financing options that might be more suitable and cost-effective.

Overlooking Other Financing Options

Home equity loans aren’t the perfect fit for every financial scenario. Sometimes, a personal loan or a line of credit might offer better terms. Homeowners should explore all the financial products available to them to make sure they pick the one that best suits their needs. It’s all about comparing options to find the most favorable deal.

Failing to Consider the Loan Duration

Long-term loans might tempt you with their lower monthly payments, but they also accrue more interest over the loan’s lifespan. To avoid overpaying in the long run, it’s crucial to choose a loan term that matches your financial goals and life situation. Always weigh the immediate benefit of lower payments against the total cost you’ll end up paying.

Neglecting Impact on Credit Score

Applying for a home equity loan can impact your credit score, especially if you don’t handle the loan wisely. Missing payments or maxing out your borrowing limit can lower your credit score, which might make it tougher to borrow in the future. It’s important to manage these loans carefully to keep your financial health in good standing.

Not Planning for Interest Rate Changes

Are you considering an adjustable-rate loan because of its appealing low initial rates? Keep in mind that these rates can jump significantly as time goes on. Homeowners should think ahead—can you handle future rate increases? If steady, predictable payments sound better, a fixed-rate loan might be the way to go.

Ignoring Tax Implications

Remember when the interest on home equity loans was always tax-deductible? Times have changed. Now, you can only deduct that interest if the loan was used to buy, build, or significantly improve the home by securing the loan. Many borrowers overlook these tax law updates, landing themselves in surprising financial situations. Make sure you’re in the know to avoid any unexpected tax implications.

Lack of Comparison Shopping for Insurance

Don’t forget to shop around for the best homeowner’s insurance rates when taking out a loan, which is a must. Many homeowners just stick with their current provider without checking if there might be better rates or coverage available elsewhere. A little comparison shopping can go a long way in saving you money and possibly improving your coverage.

Overlooking Future Financial Changes

Borrowers often overlook the possibility of future income changes that could affect their ability to repay a loan. It’s crucial to evaluate your financial stability and consider potential income fluctuations, particularly if you’re nearing retirement or your job prospects are unstable. Planning ahead and assessing these risks can help ensure that you stay on top of your loan payments without stress.

Misunderstanding Home Equity

Some borrowers get it wrong when it comes to understanding how much equity they actually have in their home. This can lead them to borrow against an inaccurately high value, which increases financial risk. Getting a precise appraisal and having a clear understanding of current market conditions are critical steps to ensure you don’t fall into this trap. Knowing your true home equity can save you from making costly mistakes.

Forgetting to Prioritize Debt Payment

Debt secured by your home, like a home equity loan, should usually be your top priority because you risk losing your home if you default. However, some borrowers slip up by putting unsecured debts, such as credit card balances, ahead of their home loans. This mismanagement can lead to serious financial jeopardy, including the potential loss of your home.

Not Consulting with a Financial Advisor

A major oversight many people make is not seeking professional financial advice. Financial advisors provide tailored insights specific to your unique financial situation, which can help you sidestep many pitfalls associated with home equity loans. Their expert guidance can be invaluable, especially when navigating the complex terms and conditions of these loans.

The Strangest Eating Habits of Billionaire CEOs

In the high-stakes world of tech, every byte and pixel matters—but what about every bite and sip? From meticulously calculated breakfast routines to eccentric dinner choices, the eating habits of Silicon Valley’s elite are as unique and innovative as the technologies they’ve pioneered. Here’s a peek into the kitchens and dining tables of some of the industry’s most influential figures. Ready to see what fuels the brains behind your favorite tech giants? Let’s dig in!

Richard Branson’s Tea to Bedtime Island Rhythm

Richard Branson’s day kicks off with a whopping 20 cups of English Breakfast tea—his secret weapon. On his private oasis, Necker Island, he starts with a fresh fruit salad or muesli and sometimes spices it up with kipper. The Virgin Group co-founder mixes business with pleasure, preferring meetings at lunch to keep things light. Evening time is all about social dinners, where ideas flow as freely as the stories. After a day juggling family time and exercise, he winds down by 11 p.m. Just another day in paradise!

Jeff Bezos’ Sunday Pancakes and Octopus

Jeff Bezos starts his Sundays in a surprisingly simple way—whipping up pancakes from a Betty Crocker cookbook. Yes, even the Amazon titan uses a recipe guide! His breakfast game can get a bit wild though, like that time he ordered Mediterranean octopus during a meeting, a nod to his adventurous business spirit. Despite the relaxed mornings, Bezos stays on his toes with a strict fitness routine guided by his personal trainer, balancing his health with his hectic billionaire lifestyle. Who knew?

Mark Cuban’s Cookie Cravings and Veggie Ventures

Mark Cuban might be a powerhouse in the boardroom, but his breakfast is surprisingly simple: coffee and two high-protein, low-carb cookies from Alyssa’s Cookies, a business he backs. And yes, there are days he munches on these cookies for breakfast, lunch, and dinner! When he’s craving comfort food, Mark goes for a custom McDonald’s salad—jazzed up with corn, cottage cheese, and relish. Since turning vegetarian, his meals might seem unconventional, but they perfectly suit his dynamic lifestyle.

Bill Gates Loves Diet Coke, Cheeseburgers, and Space Drinks

Bill Gates has an affinity for Diet Coke, consuming three to four cans daily, and his quirky dietary choices extend to breakfast with Cocoa Puffs or sometimes skipping it altogether. His love for cheeseburgers is well-known, along with his less conventional cravings like Tang, the orange-flavored drink mix famous for its space missions. The Microsoft co-founder’s dietary habits offer a window into the balance he strikes between a busy life and maintaining some normalcy through familiar foods.

Steve Jobs’ Fruitarian Feasts and Carrot Crunches

Steve Jobs often limited his diet to one or two types of food for weeks, such as carrots and apples, or adhering strictly to a fruitarian diet. His approach to food was interwoven with his minimalist lifestyle, at times believing his diet eliminated body odor, thus reducing his need for deodorants or regular showers. The late Apple CEO’s intense focus on his diet also played a role in his initial approach to combating his pancreatic cancer with a diet heavy in juiced fruits and vegetables.

Elon Musk Is All About Donuts and Mars Bars

Elon Musk has notoriously erratic eating habits. He often skips breakfast or opts for quick sweets like Mars bars or donuts. Despite his attempts to cut down on sweets, his diet remains indulgent, favoring flavorful foods over healthful options. Lunch is often a hurried affair during work, but dinner presents an opportunity for longer, business-oriented meals, where the Tesla CEO prefers French and barbecue cuisines.

Mark Zuckerberg Once Hunted His Own Food

Mark Zuckerberg once spent a year eating only meat from animals he personally killed. It wasn’t just about the hunt; it was about connecting deeply with his food sources. This bold dietary experiment led to unique dining experiences, like the time he served Jack Dorsey, former Twitter CEO, goat meat that he himself had hunted. This approach to eating mirrors his commitment to ethical consumption, showing a side of the Facebook founder that goes far beyond social media innovation.

Jack Dorsey Goes For One Meal a Day and Weekend Fasts

Speaking of Jack Dorsey, he isn’t just about tweaking algorithms; he’s also fine-tuned his diet to the extremes. From dabbling in veganism to trying the Paleo diet, he’s gone on to practice intermittent fasting—eating just one meal a day during weekdays and fasting all weekend. He swears this regimen sharpens his focus, a prime example of Silicon Valley’s obsession with biohacking. The Square CEO’s dietary strategies mean optimizing personal health with as much precision as software.

Bryan Johnson On Green Giant Smoothies And The Vegan Diet

Bryan Johnson isn’t just watching the clock—he’s rewinding it. His anti-aging regimen is no joke, starting with a vegan diet capped at 1,977 calories daily. But it’s not all salads and smoothies; his mornings kick off with a “green giant” concoction jam-packed with health-boosting goodies. Johnson’s dedication to disciplined eating and supplements isn’t just about staying fit—it’s about rewriting the rules of aging and living life to the fullest, one green sip at a time.

Sam Altman Is A Vegetarian Who Takes Metformin

Sam Altman’s wellness journey starts early—like, childhood-early. He’s been rocking the vegetarian lifestyle since way back when, supplementing with methyl B-12 and Omega-3 to keep things balanced. But he’s not just about the basics; he’s diving deep into the biohacking world with metformin, a diabetes drug rumored to have anti-aging powers. This proactive approach to health exhibits how the OpenAI CEO is not just shaping the future—he’s living it.

Warren Buffett Is A Coca-Cola Fan

Ever wondered what fuels Warren Buffett’s success? Turns out, it’s not just savvy investments—it’s Coca-Cola. The Oracle of Omaha sips on five cans a day, sticking to a diet reminiscent of carefree childhood days. For him, it’s not just about the taste; it’s about the joy of simplicity. His unusual eating habits might seem at odds with his financial genius, but they’re all part of the charm that sets him apart in the world of high finance.

Larry Ellison On Sushi, Culture, and Success

Larry Ellison has a taste for the finer things—particularly Japanese cuisine. He appreciates Japanese culture and even owns a Japanese-style estate in Woodside, California. When it comes to dining, the co-founder of Oracle opts for fresh, high-quality sushi. With a passion for sailing and outdoor activities, his diet is tailored to fuel high energy levels and overall wellness, ensuring he stays at the top of his game.

Tim Cook Swears By Protein-Rich Foods And Smoothies

Rise and shine—it’s Tim Cook’s time to shine! The Apple CEO kicks off his day before the sun rises, hitting the ground running with cycling and gym workouts. But it’s not just about breaking a sweat; his diet is the real powerhouse. Packed with protein and health-conscious smoothies, his meals fuel him through marathon workdays. This disciplined approach is the secret sauce behind his precision and efficiency at the helm of Apple.

Sundar Pichai Keeps It Simple With Vegetarianism

Sundar Pichai, the brain behind Alphabet, keeps things simple—even when it comes to food. Rooted in his Indian heritage, his vegetarian diet mirrors his preference for a down-to-earth lifestyle. He sticks to light, traditional Indian dishes, steering clear of heavy meals to keep his mind sharp for the challenges of leading Google’s parent company.

Satya Nadella On Spices And Culinary Fusion

Satya Nadella, the Microsoft executive chairman, focuses on a balanced diet inspired by his Indian heritage. He incorporates a variety of spices and flavors that reflect a blend of traditional and modern culinary practices. His approach to food parallels his management style, which emphasizes diversity, integration, and innovation. He is known to partake in meals that not only nourish but also inspire, using dining as a way to connect with colleagues and foster a collaborative work environment.