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History in the making
History in the making
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Puffins pucker up
Puffins pucker up
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The ruins of an ancient monastery, Skellig Michael, Ireland
The ruins of an ancient monastery, Skellig Michael, Ireland
Lightsabers gleam and droids beep; let"s all geek! Today"s image flashes out a filming location from the "Star Wars" sequel trilogy, the island of Skellig Michael, off the coast of southwestern Ireland. This UNESCO World Heritage landmark houses a preserved monastery from the 6th century, founded by early monks. The site"s beehive huts and stone staircases were showcased as the backdrop of a cloistered island on planet Ahch-To, where Jedi Master Luke Skywalker sought refuge in "Star Wars: The Force Awakens." Skellig Michael"s abundant seabird population, including puffins, inspired the creation of the penguin-like porgs that roost on Ahch-To. So, grab your Wookiee co-pilot, hop in your starship and may the force be strong as you journey through this galactic Earth location not so far away!Desktop Version
The Isle of Wight Garlic Festival
The Isle of Wight Garlic Festival
Every year, since 1983, garlic lovers and culinary adventurers from around the globe flock to the Isle of Wight for a festival that"s as aromatic as it is appetising—The Isle of Wight Garlic Festival. This quirky celebration of all things garlic is taking place near Newchurch village on the Isle of Wight, from August 17-18. From traditional garlic bread to more adventurous offerings like garlic fudge, garlic ice cream and garlic beer, there"s something to satisfy every palate. The festival is also a hub of entertainment and activities for all ages, with live music filling the air. Kids can enjoy face painting, garlic-themed games, and even garlic bulb planting workshops. For those who can"t get enough garlic in their lives, the event offers ample opportunities to stock up.Desktop Version
Lake Misurina, Dolomites, Italy
Lake Misurina, Dolomites, Italy
You might have heard of a pool of tears, but have you ever heard of a lake of tears? Well, legend has it that Lake Misurina, pictured here, in Italy"s Dolomites, was born from the sorrow of a giant named Sorapis. At more than 1,700 metres above sea level, it is the largest natural lake in the Cadore region, with its perimeter stretching more than 1.5 miles. The area around the lake is known for its beneficial climate, especially for those with respiratory conditions. Its crystal-clear waters and surrounding hotels provide a perfect getaway for up to 500 visitors. The lake played a role in the 1956 Winter Olympics, where it hosted speed skating events on natural ice, and it has even been immortalised in a pop song by singer Claudio Baglioni. With astounding views, mythical roots and activities for every season, this lake may well be the Dolomites" most alluring reflection.Desktop Version
Cowes Week
Cowes Week
Ahoy, sailing enthusiasts and landlubbers alike! Cowes Week is here, promising a wave of excitement from July 27 to August 2. Held annually since 1826, this regatta takes place on the Solent, the strait separating the Isle of Wight from the mainland. The event was started by the Royal Yacht Squadron, and it has grown over the years. Today, Cowes Week sees around 7,000 competitors in some 750 boats. From Olympic champions to weekend sailors, everyone is here to show off their sailing skills. There are as many as 40 races a day, catering to different classes of boats, from high-tech racing yachts to classic wooden sailboats.Desktop Version
Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Utah, USA
Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Utah, USA
The Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument is an untamed wilderness of cliffs and canyons nestled in the heart of southern Utah, United States. The Grand Staircase is a fascinating sequence of five majestic sandstone cliffs, rising approximately 5,500 metres across the expanse of the monument. Each step displays a different era in Earth"s geologic history, a showcase of time that is unrivalled by any other place on the planet. Archaeologists have found prehistoric artefacts, petrified wood and fossils dating back over 75 million years ago, from the Cretaceous Period. In human history, the Ancestral Puebloan and Fremont people mastered the art of farming in this challenging terrain. They ingeniously constructed granaries to store and preserve their bountiful harvests. Today, it is a splendid getaway for nature enthusiasts and travellers seeking adventure.Desktop Version
World Wildlife Day
World Wildlife Day
It"s time to step into the wild! World Wildlife Day is an annual event that emphasises the need for worldwide conservation efforts. This year"s theme focuses on advances in digital technology that can be used to help preserve wildlife: It can improve research, communication and DNA analysis. Digital platforms can also be a way to get younger people involved in the efforts to protect our planet"s animals.Desktop Version
Taughannock Falls State Park, New York
Taughannock Falls State Park, New York
Taughannock Falls State Park, located in New York"s scenic Finger Lakes area, is a natural marvel made by the relentless carving of Taughannock Creek into the landscape. This wonderful park is home not just to the magnificent waterfall of the same name, but also to stunning pathways, unique rock formations and numerous wild animals. The name Taughannock has unclear origins, though a leading theory says it is a combination of Iroquois and Algonquin terms, roughly translating to "great fall in the woods". The park, which was founded in 1924, guarantees visitors memorable adventures, whether you hike the rim paths for panoramic views of the falls and rock formations, take a refreshing plunge in Cayuga Lake, or bring a pair of binoculars for birding. A keen eye can spot winged locals such as turkey vultures, common loons and great horned owls.Desktop Version
Duomo Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence, Italy
Duomo Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence, Italy
Welcome to Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance! Let the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore transport you through time. More than just a church, this Gothic structure, with its red-tiled dome, is steeped in centuries of history. Built over an older cathedral dedicated to Santa Reparata, construction began in 1296 under the supervision of architect Arnolfo di Cambio.Desktop Version
Three Natural Bridges, Wulong National Park, China
Three Natural Bridges, Wulong National Park, China
Carved by nature over centuries, the Three Natural Bridges in Wulong Karst, China, is a geological wonder. These limestone bridges, towering over a deep gorge, are named after three dragons: Tianlong (Sky Dragon), Qinglong (Azure Dragon) and Heilong (Black Dragon). Tianlong, standing at 235 metres, has a bridge-pier with maze-like caves in it. The Qinglong Bridge, which is 281 metres high, offers breathtaking views when the sun is out. Heilong Bridge is the widest of the three bridges at 193 metres and reaches a height of 223 metres. Visitors can explore the Wulong Karst National Geology Park and visit places like the Furong Cave, a 2,846-metre cave with huge limestone stalactites, which are mineral formations that hang from the ceiling. Standing beneath these magnificent natural bridges, you can"t help but be humbled by the sheer power of time and nature.Desktop Version
Birch trees, Drammen, Norway
Birch trees, Drammen, Norway
Norway is home to many beautiful natural features, and birch forests are one of them. Surrounded by the "silver forests" and situated within the embrace of the fjords, Drammen, a city in Norway, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Birch trees flourish at high altitudes, making them a natural fit for the mountainous region. When summer passes and autumn takes over, birch leaves transform into a mosaic of gold and crimson in stark contrast to the slender trunks and pale bark. This striking seasonal change may be part of why birch trees are associated with new beginnings and renewal. These trees aren"t just for looks, they provide habitat and sustenance for wildlife, and can be used for firewood and in construction.Desktop Version
European Day of Parks
European Day of Parks
Today is European Day of Parks! On this day in 1909, Europe"s first nine national parks were founded in Sweden. This year, the celebration puts the spotlight on the vital role of protected areas in shaping and implementing nature policies. Additionally, it highlights how they contribute to building a sustainable and resilient society for European citizens. Essentially, these areas are more than just guardians of biodiversity; they are also pillars of our collective well-being, reminding us to preserve our natural heritage.Desktop Version
The Painted Hills, Oregon, USA
The Painted Hills, Oregon, USA
Featured here is the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, specifically the mesmerising Painted Hills. Layers of vividly coloured clay-rich soils make for a captivating landscape. These hills contain a record of changing climates and ecosystems that spans millions of years. Here, visitors can explore a museum that displays fossils of plants and animals that thrived long ago. One can get a glimpse of fossils of opossums, oreodonts, sabre-toothed tigers and turtles by visiting the Clarno unit of the monument. These remnants serve as a reminder of the dynamic and fascinating history our planet holds.Desktop Version
Colors of spring
Colors of spring
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Sea otters
Sea otters
It"s hard not to smile when you spot a sea otter. Their whiskery faces, busy paws and thick fur give the impression of a stuffed animal that has come to life and taken to the ocean. Native to the Pacific Ocean, these heaviest members of the weasel family can be found along the coast from Japan to Mexico. They aren"t just cute though, they also play a vital role in the kelp forest ecosystem, keeping the destructive sea urchin population in check. Once numbered as high as 300,000, their worldwide population had dropped to fewer than 2,000 after widespread hunting. International protections were put into place in 1911 and numbers have rebounded to around 125,000, but they still remain endangered. While some habitats never recovered, others have emerged in entirely new locations, such as Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve that"s pictured here. In 1995, five sea otters were spotted in Glacier Bay and today there are over 8,000 that hunt, play and raise pups in the kelp-abundant waters.Desktop Version
Cherry blossoms in Shanghai, China
Cherry blossoms in Shanghai, China
In spring, nature puts on a vibrant display, marking the start of the season with the bloom of cherry blossoms. Around the globe, from Japan to the United Kingdom, this spectacle captivates millions of hearts. In China, cherry blossoms, known as "Yinghua," bloom from late March to late April, adorning landscapes with delicate hues of pink and white. Revered for centuries by the Chinese, these fragile petals hold profound significance in their traditions, symbolising renewal, hope and the transient nature of life. There are various locations in China to view these blossoms, including Wuhan"s East Lake Cherry Blossom Park, Shanghai"s Gucun Park and Luxun Park, as well as Beijing"s Yuyuantan Park. Cherry blossoms look similar to plum blossoms, but an easy way to distinguish between the two is to look at their petals. Cherry blossom petals have split ends, but plum blossoms don"t.Desktop Version
World Theatre Day
World Theatre Day
Lights on, curtains rise—it"s World Theatre Day. Since 1961, this annual event by the International Theatre Institute (ITI) has united audiences and artists in a shared appreciation of storytelling, creativity and culture. Every year, a renowned theatre figure is invited by ITI to deliver a message that resonates across the industry. Their words are translated into more than 50 languages and shared with people all over the world. These messages highlight theatre"s role in society—be it as a mirror to reality, an agent of change, or a refuge for the imagination. From Shakespeare"s soliloquies to experimental avant-garde productions, theatre has continuously evolved while holding onto its core: human connection.Desktop Version
Squirrel Appreciation Day
Squirrel Appreciation Day
What"s that long, bushy tail scurrying across the branches? Chances are, it"s a squirrel. These little rodents are found across most of the globe, and today is their special day: Squirrel Appreciation Day. This unofficial holiday was started by a North Carolina wildlife rehabilitator to encourage people to leave out seeds and nuts for these critters. From the tiny least pygmy squirrel—just 14 centimetres long—to the Bhutan giant flying squirrel at more than a metre, these mammals come in all shapes and sizes.Desktop Version
World Octopus Day
World Octopus Day
Today, we celebrate a creature with three hearts and the uncanny ability to change colour at will: the octopus. Octopuses are cephalopods, marine animals like squids and cuttlefish that have tentacles. Among their many species is the mototi octopus, pictured here. It was discovered in 1999 around Rapa Island in the South Pacific and is known for the "fake eyes" or ocelli—vibrant blue and yellow rings—between its eyes and arms. Found in the Indo-Pacific region, including Indonesia, Australia and Okinawa in Japan, mototi octopuses are masters of disguise. They usually have a dull orange-cream-brown colour but when alarmed, they can quickly shift to striking maroon with white stripes along their body and arms. Also known as poison ocellate octopuses, these cephalopods are highly venomous. But you don"t need to worry about running into one, because they tend to be shy and solitary, often hiding in crevices, shells or man-made objects like bottles and cans.Desktop Version
Gollinger Waterfalls, Salzburg, Austria
Gollinger Waterfalls, Salzburg, Austria
From the untamed Salzachöfen Gorge, to the world"s oldest salt mines at Hallein, to Eisriesenwelt, the largest ice cave in the world, Austria is home to many wonders. Though gentle and humble, the Golling Waterfalls in the state of Salzburg are certainly one of them. With two major cascades, one tumbling down after the other from the mouth of the Schwarzbachfall cave, this 76-metre fall is a sight to behold in every season—whether it"s framed by the lush greenery of spring or the icy embrace of winter. The region has been protected as a natural monument in Austria since 1985. Whether you are into hiking, photography or just looking to spend some quality time in nature, this is a great Austrian destination.Desktop Version
Ocracoke Lighthouse on Ocracoke Island, North Carolina, USA
Ocracoke Lighthouse on Ocracoke Island, North Carolina, USA
Welcome to Ocracoke Island in the Outer Banks of North Carolina, United States. This is a place where history and nature intertwine. This secluded island, reachable only by ferry or small plane, offers 16 miles of untouched beaches and a wealth of stories. The Ocracoke Lighthouse, seen in today"s image, stands out as a notable landmark. The lighthouse celebrated its 200th anniversary in 2023, making it the oldest continuously operating lighthouse in North Carolina. It boasts an 8,000-candlepower light, which can be seen up to 14 miles offshore.Desktop Version
Oktoberfest, Munich, Germany
Oktoberfest, Munich, Germany
Today, we"re raising a stein and saying Prost! Step into the capital of Bavaria, Germany, pictured here, for a celebration like no other. Oktoberfest, dating back to 1810, starts today in Munich. This grand event is a vibrant blend of Bavarian culture, tradition and, of course, beer.Desktop Version
Happy New Year!
Happy New Year!
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Happy Welsh New Year!
Happy Welsh New Year!
Who says New Year"s Day has to be on 1 January? In Wales, the clocks turn back—figuratively—to celebrate Hen Galan, or the "Old New Year," on January 13. As part of this tradition, Calennig, meaning "New Year"s gift" in Welsh, plays a central role, linking the celebration to customs from the Julian calendar era. Even after most of the world switched to the Gregorian calendar in 1582, some Welsh communities clung to their old ways. Traditionally, the day involves children going door-to-door, singing songs and offering good wishes in exchange for gifts like coins, food or sweets. A unique feature is its clove-decorated apples. These aren"t for snacking, though; they"re miniature symbols of luck and prosperity.Desktop Version