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16 Nov 2023World Philosophy Day

On World Philosophy Day, let"s talk about Athens, the capital of Greece. The city symbolises the roots of Western civilisation and ancient Greek philosophy, which focused on critical thinking and questioning. The city"s iconic Acropolis and Parthenon remind us of the brilliant minds of Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, who started a revolution of rationale that is still shaping our society today. UNESCO recognises the profound impact philosophy has on human thought, cultures, and individuals via World Philosophy Day. Take time today to discover the depths of the "love of wisdom"!Desktop Version

6 Nov 2023Lago Pehoé, Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

Vivid turquoise waters mirroring the cerulean sky, surrounded by jagged peaks, and lush forests—that"s Lake Pehoé for you. Nestled in Torres del Paine National Park, Chile, this glacial lake is a masterpiece of nature. The towering peaks like the Cuernos del Paine and the Paine Massif are special too. But where does the lake get its hues from? It is primarily the result of the presence of finely ground rock particles and minerals, known as glacial flour or rock flour, suspended in the water. The term "Paine" is believed to originate from a Tehuelche word meaning "blue." At 700 square miles, Torres del Paine has been recognised as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1978. From hiking to kayaking to stargazing, this place has a lot to offer. So, pack your sense of adventure and head south to beat the blues.Desktop Version

23 Feb 2024Haghartsin Monastery, Armenia

Hidden among the forests of northern Armenia, Haghartsin Monastery is a gem of medieval Armenian architecture. Surrounded by the lush landscapes of Dilijan National Park, the monastery complex consists of several ornate structures, including the Church of the Holy Mother of God, St. Gregory"s Church and St. Stepanos" Church. The buildings date back to the 10th century and are adorned with intricately carved stone monuments, crossing arches and other decorative details, showcasing the skilled craftsmanship of the era. Haghartsin, which translates to "dance of the eagles," offers a serene escape for those seeking to connect with the country"s rich history. A sense of timelessness pervades as you wander through its quiet courtyards and explore the forested surroundings.Desktop Version

12 Dec 2023Reed bunting

Brown, sleek, sharp and always dressed to impress—say hello to the reed bunting! With their jet-black heads, white collars and dapper "moustache," males cut quite the figure. Despite their name, reed buntings can also be found on farmland and in wetlands across Europe. Their melodious tunes aren"t just for show—they"re part of an elaborate courtship display. Monogamy with biparental care is the main mating system for the species. While these birds may seem common and they are listed as "least concern" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, their population is shown to be declining. Next time you"re out birdwatching, keep an eye—and ear—out for them.Desktop Version

31 Jul 2024Hoodoos, Sunset Point, Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah, USA

Let"s take a trip to a forest of stones: Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah, USA. In the park, named after the Mormon pioneer Ebenezer Bryce, lies Sunset Point, seen in today"s image, a spot to see the hoodoos. These rock formations are created by frost weathering and stream erosion, which shape the stone into an otherworldly landscape. Perched at 2,400 to 2,700 metres, this overlook offers a panoramic view of rocky spires in red, orange and white. The most iconic of them is Thor"s Hammer, a hoodoo that overlooks a part of the park known as the "Silent City." The Queen"s Garden Trail, which leads from Sunset Point to Sunrise Point, offers even more vistas and rock formations, including the Queen Victoria hoodoo. According to the legend told by the Paiute indigenous people who inhabited this area, hoodoos are people who have been turned to stone for their misdeeds by the trickster Coyote. Whether you"re a hiker, a photographer or simply a traveller, the hoodoos are waiting.Desktop Version

26 Jan 2024Big Garden Birdwatch

Got a keen eye for our feathered friends? Grab your binoculars and notepad as the Big Garden Birdwatch is back for its 45th year! What started as an activity for children has now turned into the world"s largest garden wildlife survey. Every year, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds—a charitable organisation—asks volunteers to spend an hour noting down the birds that pop by their gardens over the Birdwatch weekend. No garden? No worries! A balcony or local park will do just fine. Just jot down what you see and let the RSPB know. While you"re sure to see many birds, here"s a peek at one of our most beloved visitors—the Eurasian blue tit. Common in woodlands, gardens and farmlands, these tiny acrobats stand out in cerulean and gold against the winter grey. Cheers and happy birdwatching!Desktop Version

15 Nov 2024Yi Peng lantern festival, Chiang Mai, Thailand

As twilight descends today, Chiang Mai, Thailand"s second-largest city, will come alive with thousands of glowing lanterns for Yi Peng. Held on the full moon of the second month of the Lanna lunar calendar—a calendar that dates to the medieval Lanna Kingdom of Northern Thailand—this celebration signifies the removal of negativity and the embrace of new beginnings. The highlight of the festival is the release of "khom loi" or "khom loy"—floating paper lanterns—into the night sky, creating a beautiful sight as the heavens fill with a sea of warm, golden lights. Locals and visitors gather around temples and palaces to send their wishes skyward, hoping for good fortune in the year to come.Desktop Version

5 Nov 2024Guy Fawkes Night

"Remember, remember the fifth of November, gunpowder, treason and plot. I see no reason why gunpowder treason should ever be forgot!" The tale begins in 1605, when a man named Guy Fawkes became part of a conspiracy to blow up the Houses of Parliament on November 5. Alongside a group of disillusioned Catholics, Fawkes had hatched a bold and dangerous plan to kill King James I and end Protestant rule in England. Their secret weapon? Thirty-six barrels of gunpowder hidden in the cellars of Parliament, enough to blow the entire place sky-high. However, the plan was discovered a day before and the plot foiled. And so, 5 November became a day of celebration—not of the plotters, but of their failure. Today, communities gather to burn effigies of Fawkes, light fireworks and enjoy treats like bonfire toffee, remembering the night the plot went up in smoke—literally!Desktop Version

Wintry Swiss bliss

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30 Nov 2023Leadenhall Market, London

With its Victorian architecture, interior details and cobbled floors, London"s Leadenhall Market offers a blend of history, shopping, dining, and more. Interestingly, Leadenhall Market was the filming location for Harry Potter"s Leaky Cauldron pub, but its most magical resident might have been a Victorian goose named Old Tom. According to legend, this wily bird managed to avoid the butcher shop and instead lived in the market until 1835 and the age of 38. Archaeologists have found evidence that a Roman market existed on this site well before the modern version. The market was also used as a filming location for other films like "Hereafter," "Lara Croft: Tomb Raider" and "The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus." This beloved landmark is a treasure trove of culture and commerce, so be sure to explore every nook and cranny.Desktop Version

22 Oct 2023Red grouse

It"s an all-too-common scene—you are strolling through the windswept, heather-clad moors, breathing in the crisp Yorkshire air, and suddenly, you spot a flash of colour. Say hello to the red grouse, also known as the moorfowl, moorcock or moorbird! They are plump, they are round, and they are known for their distinctive rusty-red plumage (as the name suggests). Endemic to the British Isles, these fowls can be found on upland heathlands and moorlands. Their camouflage makes them nearly invisible amidst the brush, and their incredible speed and agility help them dart away from potential predators. Not only are they a sought-after game bird species, but red grouses are prized for their tender, flavourful meat, which is considered a delicacy. Grouse is a seasonal food, typically available from August to December, coinciding with the shooting season.Desktop Version

18 Jan 2024Winnie the Pooh Day

Fancy an excuse to reconnect with your childhood? It"s Winnie the Pooh Day today! That’s right, that "willy-nilly silly old bear" has a day to himself! It"s actually the birthday of Alan Alexander Milne, the man who brought Pooh and his pals to life. Inspired by Milne"s son Christopher Robin and his stuffed animals, the stories have captured the hearts of readers for nearly a century.Desktop Version

18 Feb 2024World Whale Day

Ahoy there, giants of the sea! World Whale Day is surfacing yet again, along with these sperm whales off the coast of the Caribbean island of Dominica. Established in 1980 in Maui, the day originally aimed to celebrate the humpback whales in Hawaiian waters and has evolved into a global event advocating for the conservation of all whale species.Desktop Version

9 Mar 2025The Shard, London

London"s skyline has had its fair share of famous landmarks, but none quite like The Shard. Rising 310 metres above England"s capital, this glass-clad giant is not just the tallest building in the United Kingdom but also a symbol of modern London. It was designed by Renzo Piano, an Italian architect known for making a statement with high-tech, lightweight and functional designs. Inspired by church spires and ship masts, he envisioned a sleek, tapering structure that would reflect the changing sky. Construction began in 2009, and by 2012, it had officially claimed its title as Western Europe"s tallest skyscraper.Desktop Version

7 Jan 2024Great Staple Tor, Dartmoor National Park

With its rolling hills, craggy tors and misty moors, Dartmoor, England is the stuff of legends—literally! From Bronze Age stone circles to tales of old smugglers" paths, this national park is steeped in history. Pictured here is Great Staple Tor, with its stacks of weathered granite, one of the many tors that dot the Dartmoor landscape. Getting up to the Great Staple Tor is a bit like a choose-your-own-adventure book. There are various routes to the top, each with its own quirks and surprises. You might encounter Dartmoor ponies grazing lazily, marvel at the ancient stone rows or navigate through the infamous Dartmoor fog. Did you know that it has over 450 miles of public rights of way? That"s loads of exploring. Before you head off, remember it"s important to stay on the paths and keep this protected landscape as untouched as possible.Desktop Version

10 Jun 2024The city of Osaka at night, Japan

In the heart of Japan, where the past and future intertwine, lies a city pulsating with life and culture—Osaka. Traditionally an economic hub, Osaka has twice served briefly as the imperial capital, once in the 7th and once in the 8th century. It flourished culturally during the Edo period (1603–1867) and became a major industrial centre after the Meiji Restoration in1868, which restored imperial rule to Japan.Desktop Version

23 Oct 2023Corn maze in Saylorsburg, Pennsylvania

For a taste of rural Americana, Mazezilla in the Poconos region of Pennsylvania, is a must-visit fall experience that offers a perplexing challenge. Covering a vast 11-acre expanse, Mazezilla offers a fresh and distinctive maze design annually, making it a cherished attraction during the months of September and October.Desktop Version

7 Feb 2024St James Tidal Pool, Cape Town, South Africa

St James Beach, nestled along the Cape Town coastline, is a small, sheltered beach, popular for its row of vibrant Victorian bathing boxes that add a kaleidoscope of colour against the azure ocean backdrop. The ambiance is perfect for leisurely strolls and soaking up the sun"s warmth while observing the rhythmic ebb and flow of the tides. However, it"s the St James Tidal Pool that steals the spotlight—a protected bathing area teeming with small marine life. Built between rugged rocks, the pool offers crystal-clear waters for a tranquil swimming experience. The pool is warm compared to the ocean and is perfect for floating around without worrying about strong currents, making it a safe water playground for kids and adults.Desktop Version

25 Feb 2024Modica, Sicily, Italy

When Italy comes to mind, iconic cities like Milan, Rome and Venice often steal the spotlight. However, on the island of Sicily lies a less famous gem—Modica. It"s a city that has risen from the rubble of an earthquake in 1693 to become an architectural wonderland of Baroque-style buildings. With fewer than 60,000 inhabitants, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts cobbled lanes, echoing with powerful footprints—from prehistoric tribes to the ancient Greeks and Romans to the medieval Arabs and Normans. Landmarks like the San Giorgio Cathedral and San Pietro Church awe visitors with their grandeur, and Modica"s recognised chocolate, crafted with Aztec-inspired techniques, tempts the palates of food enthusiasts. So, the next time Italy beckons, how about taking the road less travelled to Modica?Desktop Version

22 Dec 2023December solstice

Here"s to a great night out or a cosy night in on the longest night of the year! On this day, the Northern Hemisphere, where the United Kingdom is located, is tilted the farthest from the sun, resulting in the earliest sunset and the shortest day of the year. Called the December solstice, it marks the official beginning of winter and longer days ahead, giving a nice boost to the festive mood.Desktop Version

4 Jan 2024Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, California, USA

An exemplary engineering accomplishment, the Golden Gate Bridge stands like a sentinel over the entrance to San Francisco Bay. Blanketed by the fog above the waters of the Golden Gate Strait, its towers, adorned with Art Deco elements, reach a height of 745 feet. This bridge was the result of combined efforts put in by engineer Joseph Strauss, architect Irving Marrow and many others towards connecting San Francisco to Marin County. The bridge was painted International Orange—the golden adjective refers to the sun-reflecting waters below—and was opened to the public in 1937. It wasn"t an easy vision to accomplish, especially as it was built during the Great Depression. The infrastructure investment paid off, as its construction employed thousands, contributing to both local employment and technological growth. The Golden Gate Bridge, a testament to human innovation, is a timeless masterpiece blending functionality with beauty.Desktop Version

8 Apr 2024Llansteffan Castle, Carmarthenshire, Wales

In the heart of Carmarthenshire, Wales, near the River Tywi estuary, stands Llansteffan Castle. This historical gem dates to the 12th century when the Normans decided to mark their territory in this strategic spot. With sweeping views over the estuary and the countryside, it"s not hard to see why they chose this location. The castle served as a focal point in the tug-of-war between the Normans and the native Welsh princes, witnessing numerous battles and sieges. These days, the castle, which is now privately owned, is in ruins, although a few structures are still standing. While the two-tower Gatehouse greets visitors, the castle"s stone walls enclose an Iron Age promontory fort. So, if you ever find yourself in Carmarthenshire, consider a detour to Llansteffan.Desktop Version

2 Jan 2024Prayer flags in Phobjikha Valley, Bhutan

This kaleidoscopic column is a series of prayer flags, blown by the breeze in the Phobjikha Valley, Bhutan. Prayer flags are most commonly hung along a line with five repeating colours, each representing an element in nature. The fluttering fabrics, inscribed with spiritual scripts, are usually raised during times of prosperity, such as on Bhutan"s Nyinlong, their traditional day of solstice, which takes place today. As the flags fade over time, adherents believe this signifies that the prayers have been heard and are being carried away by the wind, infusing the surrounding area with positivity and spirituality. As we see them wave, we can remember that in these dark winter months, there"s literally a brighter tomorrow.Desktop Version

7 Dec 2023Verdon Gorge, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, France

Stretching nearly 100 kilometres, the Verdon Gorge is Europe"s largest canyon, with majestic cliffs climbing up to 750 metres in height. The emerald hue of the Verdon River"s waters, hidden far below this blanket of clouds, lends its name to this spectacular natural site, shaped by millions of years of erosion. Visitors or residents of Alpes-de-Haute-Provence hiking in the southeast of France can visit the canyon for rock climbing, kayaking, paragliding—the adventure options are endless. If you find yourself in Marseille or Nice, a day trip may be in order.Desktop Version

26 Dec 2023Happy Boxing Day!

The flurry of wrapping paper has settled, and the feast-induced food coma is slowly wearing off, but it turns out the holiday season isn"t quite over! December 26 marks Boxing Day—an opportunity to keep the festive spirit going or to conquer the Boxing Day sales during a walk through Princes Street in Edinburgh, Scotland, seen here. This day is observed by the United Kingdom and several Commonwealth members, including Canada and Australia. The origin of the day is thought to come from the old tradition of giving "boxes" filled with presents to people in need on the day after Christmas. Although this holiday is still associated with giving gifts, it also has various customs. For example, horse racing events are held across the United Kingdom, including the historic King George VI Chase at Kempton Park racecourse. Whether you"re enjoying leftover mince pie or unboxing a shiny new purchase, just make sure to enjoy it!Desktop Version

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